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The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands celebrates 2023 ocean conservation highlights

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Forming part of the coveted Fari Islands’ lifestyle concept, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands has been championing environmental education since its opening in 2021. A destination that’s fast become an iconic addition to the Indian Ocean, is also home to a hub of innovation when it comes to environmental conservation. The resort steps lightly in to 2024 celebrating its continued dedication to the protection of our natural world. 

‘Eye in the Sky’ Drone Technology 

Spearheaded by resort naturalists and a progressive research community, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands’ sophisticated ocean plastics’ monitoring program works to conserve one of the world’s most fragile ecosystems with the use of drones. In partnership with British PhD researcher Melissa Schiele, drone technology has been developed and deployed in and around the atoll to better understand the location and movement of ocean plastics, including discarded fishing nets (ghost nets). With immediate impact resort teams are able to locate and remove otherwise hard to find debris identified by drones. 

In 2023 the resort’s naturalist team and dive network removed 19 ghost nets with an estimated weight of 1100kg. These ghost nets travel in to the east Indian Ocean via strong ocean winds and currents experienced in the region from mid-December. In 2023, the resort successfully rescued five olive ridley sea turtles found entangled in abandoned nets. Two turtles were released immediately, with three rehabilitated by the Olive Ridley Project’s veterinary team at the Marine Turtle Rescue Centre in Baa Atoll, before a successful reintroduction to the ocean.  A rehabilitated turtle named ‘Muraka’, released on the 16th of August 2023, was fitted with a GPS tracking device to allow guests and followers to trace her journey.

Since opening, the resort has achieved 751 drone flights aiding critical research in to plastic aggregation, location of ghost nets and ongoing monitoring of wildlife. In a first-of-its-kind image collection and data processing project, impressive data from the drone initiative was drawn for collaborative use to inform, educate and drive positive change long-term. Over 21 ocean species were observed in 2023, from the Ornate Eagle Ray, Black Tip Reef Shark to Melon-Headed Whale.*

Jean-Michel Cousteau Ambassadors of the Environment program

Home to the Maldives’ first Jean-Michel Cousteau Ambassadors of the Environment program, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands continues to collaborate with the world-renowned oceanographic explorer and environmentalist to provide guest experiences with preservation of the planet at its core. In 2023 the program planted 40 coral frames as part of its coral regeneration initiative, using coral frags from the Pocillapora (Cauliflower corals) and the Acropora (Table coral).  25 of these abundant nursery frames, and successful new habitats for ocean life, can be seen by guests in the shallow waters of the resort’s welcome jetty on arrival.

The resort will welcome Jean-Michel Cousteau in 2024 from the 8th to 18th April. An inspired educational residency will include exclusive guest experiences and Q&As with the legendary explorer.

Community Footprints

As part of its Community Footprints’ programming, and with focus on environmental awareness for the planet’s future generations, the resort’s relationships with local schools enable visits with its naturalist teams to share research and educate. In 2023 five educational excursions to local islands took place including schools in Dhiffushi and Gaafaru.  The visits took a deep dive in to ocean conservation, from the environmental impact of ocean plastics, insights from the resort community’s drone research and shared observations of wildlife in the surrounding atoll.  Presentations of ground-breaking research from the resort’s ‘Visiting Heroes’ programme included the work of renowned shark scientist Gibbs Kuguru and his conservation work tagging Blacktip Reef Sharks.

Closer to home, the resort was proud to engage in ten global environmental dates. Educational and inspired activities worked to raise awareness surrounding key calendar dates including; World Shark Day, World Dolphin Day, Ocean Clean Up Day, and Earth Day. A continuation of its Community Footprints programming, 11 beach clean-ups invited guests to support ocean debris collection on resort shores and the local islands of Dhiffushi and Gaafaru.  

Creating a Sustainable Environment for the Future 

The resort continues to grow its commitment to sustainable practices in its day-to-day operations, from increasing its production of renewable energy via its solar power infrastructure, purification of still and sparkling drinking water at its dedicated plant, treating greywater for landscaping, and a robust composting programme for daily food waste.

With a considered approach to luxury living, guests can expect to use reusable glass water bottles, bamboo-based personal consumables, refillable jars of amenities, and bamboo and stainless-steel straws. Organic Bamford amenities, with shared sensibilities of living consciously and in harmony with nature, are replenished on-site, while the resort’s desalination plant reduces the amount of plastic imported into the country. 

For more information, visit ritzcarlton.com/Maldives and for real-time updates follow the resort on Facebook and Instagram.

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Milaidhoo Maldives included in Tatler Travel Guide 2026’s top hotels

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Milaidhoo Maldives has announced its inclusion in the prestigious Tatler Travel Guide 2026, a coveted recognition celebrating the world’s most exceptional hotels. The island has been selected among Tatler 101: The World’s Best Hotels, an annual list that represents the pinnacle of excellence in global hospitality.

Curated by Tatler’s Travel Editor alongside an expert editorial team and an international network of contributors, the Tatler Travel Guide is renowned for its rigorous and discerning selection process. Each property is carefully evaluated to ensure that only those offering truly remarkable experiences earn a place on the list.

As one of the most established and influential society magazines in the world, Tatler’s endorsement is considered one of the highest honours in the travel industry. The guide speaks directly to a sophisticated and discerning audience, celebrating hotels that combine authenticity, character and outstanding service.

For Milaidhoo Maldives, the recognition is a meaningful affirmation of the island’s philosophy: a boutique, barefoot sanctuary where the essence of the Maldives is experienced in its most genuine form. Set within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Milaidhoo is known for its intimate atmosphere, thoughtful hospitality and deep connection to Maldivian heritage and culture.

“We are deeply honoured to be recognised in the Tatler Travel Guide 2026,” said Paul van Frank, General Manager. “At Milaidhoo, we strive to create experiences that feel personal, soulful and truly reflective of the Maldives. To be included among the world’s best hotels is a wonderful recognition of the passion and dedication of our team, the Milaidhoo Family.”

From the island’s iconic overwater restaurant Ba’theli, inspired by traditional Maldivian sailing vessels, to curated cultural and marine experiences, Milaidhoo offers guests an opportunity to slow down and connect with the natural beauty and traditions of the Maldives.

This recognition from Tatler further reinforces Milaidhoo’s reputation as one of the Indian Ocean’s most distinctive luxury escapes, where authenticity, intimacy and heartfelt service define every stay.

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ELE|NA marks World Sleep Day with SleepSync wellness ritual

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In recognition of World Sleep Day, ELE|NA highlights SleepSync, one of its Six Pillars of Vitality dedicated to restoration and circadian rhythm alignment, through the SleepSync Ritual, a deeply calming spa experience designed to guide guests toward profound, uninterrupted sleep. The ritual is implemented across all ELE|NA locations in both the Maldives and India, ensuring guests can reconnect with restorative sleep wherever they experience the brand.

In today’s always-connected world, restful sleep has become increasingly elusive. Within this ritual, the body is gently led from stimulation into stillness, releasing the tensions of the day, calming the nervous system and preparing the mind and body for restorative rest.

ELE|NA believes that sleep is not simply the absence of wakefulness, but an essential pillar of holistic wellbeing – where restoration, emotional balance and cellular renewal take place.

Supporting the Body’s Natural Sleep Rhythm

Sleep begins long before the moment the head meets the pillow. It is a gradual transition where the body releases the day and prepares for stillness.

Within ELE|NA’s SleepSync Rituals, this transition is approached with intention and calm. As evening settles, the body begins its quiet descent into rest with the following:

  • Reduce blue light exposure before sleep
  • Dim lighting to signal the body’s nighttime rhythm
  • Create calm through mindful transitions away from daily activity
  • Release thoughts through journaling
  • Hydrate and support the body’s nighttime recovery

These small rituals help guide the body from stimulation to restoration.

Reclaiming the Night

World Sleep Day serves as an important reminder that quality sleep is not a luxury, but a foundation of health and longevity. When supported with mindful rituals and intentional slowing down, the night becomes a space for true renewal.

Through SleepSync Rituals, ELE|NA continues its commitment to nurturing holistic wellbeing, guiding individuals back to the natural rhythms that allow the body to rest, restore and awaken with clarity and vitality.

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Kandooma Maldives invites families to Easter island celebrations

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Swap traditional Easter routines for barefoot island celebrations as Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives unveils a vibrant Easter programme designed for families seeking adventure, connection and memorable island moments.

Set on a lush private island surrounded by turquoise lagoons and powder-white beaches, the resort’s Easter festivities blend family adventures, island experiences and indulgent dining in true Maldivian style.

“Easter is a wonderful time for families to come together and create special memories,” said Sharon Garrett, Director of Marketing & Sustainability at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. “Our Easter programme has been designed to capture the spirit of the season while embracing the relaxed island lifestyle that makes the Maldives such a special place to celebrate.”

Guests can enjoy a week of fun-filled activities for all ages, from beach games, snorkelling adventures and creative craft sessions to relaxing spa rituals and sunset cocktails by the ocean. Younger guests will be happily entertained at the Kandoo Kids’ Club, where a dedicated Easter programme offers plenty of excitement for little explorers.

The highlight of the celebrations will be the Easter Sunday Dinner Buffet at Kandooma Café, a festive island feast bringing families together around a table filled with global flavours.

Guests can savour traditional Easter favourites from the carving station, vibrant salads and international cuisine, alongside chef-prepared dishes from live cooking stations. A dedicated Kids’ Corner ensures younger diners have their own fun selections, while a spectacular dessert spread, including Kandooma Café’s famous chocolate fountain and live crêpe station, provides a sweet finale to the evening.

Families planning an Easter holiday can choose from a range of holiday packages, including the resort’s popular All-Inclusive offer and a Family Getaway package packed with added extras for parents and children alike. More details can be found here.

The resort’s Easter Brochure outlines the full programme of island adventures and special experiences, including the Kandoo Kids’ Club Easter activities. View Easter Brochure here.

Located in the South Malé Atoll, just a 45-minute speedboat transfer from Velana International Airport, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is renowned for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear lagoon and some of the Maldives’ best scuba diving experiences.

Accommodation ranges from garden and beach villas to spacious two-storey beach houses and overwater villas, offering options ideal for couples, families and groups. Guests can enjoy six dining venues, a vibrant activities programme and wellness experiences at Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala.

For more information, please visit: www.maldives.holidayinnresorts.com.

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