JOALI Maldives, the first and only art-immersive resort in the Maldives, will commemorate its sixth anniversary on November 15, 2024, with a special event that highlights its dedication to art, sustainability, and nature. For this milestone celebration, the resort is collaborating with Ruinart, the world’s oldest Champagne house. Founded in 1729 in Reims, France, and currently owned by LVMH Moët Hennessy, Ruinart has a long-standing connection to art, dating back to 1895 when Andre Ruinart commissioned Czech artist Alphonse Mucha to design a poster for the brand. Similarly, since its launch in 2018, JOALI has redefined the role of art in luxury hospitality by showcasing works from international artists. Renowned for its vibrant joie de vivre lifestyle, JOALI aligns with Maison Ruinart’s savoir-vivre philosophy, sharing values rooted in art and luxury.

As part of the celebration, British-French artist Sophie Kitching will present an ethereal art display during a cocktail event at Mura Bar, the heart of the resort. A graduate of the École nationale supérieure des Arts Décoratifs in Paris and the School of Visual Arts in New York, Kitching is acclaimed for her installations, paintings, sculptures, and works on paper. She frequently employs oils, watercolours, and gold leaves on natural materials. Having collaborated with Maison Ruinart for events such as Frieze NY 2022 and the “Maison 1729” exhibition, Kitching will create bespoke eco-designed second skins and coasters for JOALI’s sixth anniversary. Drawing inspiration from the island’s native flora and fauna, including grey herons, sea birds, vibrant corals, and marine life, her creations incorporate vivid colours and copper-zinc leaves to adorn Ruinart bottles. These pieces reflect both JOALI’s and Ruinart’s shared commitment to art and sustainability.

During the event, guests will savour Ruinart Blanc de Blancs Cuvées while admiring Kitching’s ‘Invisible Green Art XXX, 2024’, an abstract masterpiece featuring a distinctive green tone originally developed during England’s Georgian and Regency eras. Transported from Ruinart’s archives in Reims, this artwork will remain on display at JOALI Maldives for over six months. Art and wine enthusiasts will also have the opportunity to purchase limited-edition hand-painted second skins by Kitching during the cocktail event or until the pieces are sold out.

On November 16, 2024, guests can further indulge in an exclusive champagne-pairing dinner hosted by Fabien Vallérian, International Director of Arts & Culture at Ruinart. This gastronomic experience will pair Maison Ruinart’s champagnes with a meticulously curated menu, with each plate and glass weaving a narrative of art and flavour.

Fabien Vallérian praised the partnership, stating: “At Maison Ruinart, the protection of nature is central to our values. We are dedicated to supporting artists who foster a dialogue between humanity and nature through their creativity and craftsmanship. Since 2022, we have collaborated with Sophie Kitching on various artistic commissions, and this project with JOALI provides an incredible opportunity for her to explore and celebrate the ecosystems of the Maldives.”

These celebratory events mark the beginning of a promising partnership, with future activations planned both in the Maldives and globally.

The 2024 Boutique Hotel Club Awards, often likened to the Michelin Guide for boutique hotels, has unveiled its winners, showcasing the pinnacle of global luxury and hospitality. Among the celebrated properties, Velaa Private Island in the Maldives made an indelible mark by clinching the award for ‘World’s Best Fine Dining Hotel’, solidifying its reputation as a beacon of exclusive experiences and culinary excellence.

Renowned for its unparalleled offerings, Velaa Private Island is a secluded paradise in the Noonu Atoll, surrounded by pristine azure waters. The accolade highlights its commitment to delivering curated dining experiences that transcend luxury, blending world-class cuisine with the serene beauty of its surroundings. The judges lauded the property as “an exclusive private island surrounded by an azure sea and curated experiences to go beyond luxury.”

The Boutique Hotel Club, celebrated for its meticulous vetting process, evaluated over 500 nominees across 80 countries. Properties undergo rigorous on-site assessments, with over 400 gold standards of hospitality excellence shaping the selection process. This year’s winners represent the pinnacle of creativity, sustainability, and immersive guest experiences.

While Velaa Private Island shone as the standout destination for fine dining, other winners in various categories celebrated unique aspects of boutique hospitality. The overall title of ‘World’s Best Boutique Hotel/ was awarded to Akademie Street Boutique Hotel in Franschhoek, South Africa, known for its style, charm, and exceptional guest service.

The awards also emphasised sustainability, with Munduk Moding Plantation in Bali earning ‘World’s Best Eco Hotel’ for its dedication to environmental impact and community support. This reflects a broader trend in the boutique hotel industry: integrating sustainability into the luxury travel experience.

Velaa Private Island is renowned for offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty, bespoke services, and extraordinary culinary adventures. Whether dining under the stars or exploring the vibrant marine life of the Maldives, guests are immersed in an exclusive escape tailored to their desires. This latest recognition further cements Velaa’s position as a leader in luxury hospitality.

For 15 years, the Boutique Hotel Club has celebrated the world’s finest boutique properties, meticulously curating destinations that embody exceptional quality, emotional resonance, and a unique sense of place. With Velaa Private Island leading the charge, the 2024 awards highlight a new era of boutique excellence, where luxury meets heart and innovation.

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru offer an unforgettable festive escape on their twin islands. Nestled in a serene haven, guests can celebrate the holiday season immersed in a seamless blend of luxury, adventure, Maldivian culture, and the relaxed elegance of island life. From swimming alongside sea turtles in vibrant coral reefs to embarking on thrilling big game fishing expeditions or unwinding in personalizsd spa retreats, the islands provide the perfect mix of excitement and tranquility.

This festive season, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru invites guests to indulge in the award-winning ‘Madi Hiyaa’, an overwater Japanese restaurant. Visitors can savour signature dishes from the newly opened Saffron Thai cuisine or enjoy a unique self-caught-to-table experience at Sangu Garden.

December 22nd – Christmas Spirit Ignites

• Christmas Tree Decoration (5:45 – 6:15 PM): Guests can gather at Sangu Garden, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, to decorate the Christmas tree with lights, ornaments, and festive cheer, creating memorable moments with loved ones.

December 24th & 25th – Christmas Eve & Christmas Day

• Santa’s Little Crafters: Children can unleash their creativity at Dhawa Kids Club by crafting holiday masterpieces.
• Christmas Eve Gala Dinner: Sangu Garden will transform into a culinary paradise, offering an elegant dinner amid shimmering lights.
• Merry & Mindful Yoga: Guests can begin Christmas morning with a rejuvenating yoga session on the Lagoon Deck.
• Gingerbread Man Decorating Class: Young guests can decorate gingerbread men at Dhawa Kids Club, adding a sweet touch to the festivities.
• Chocolate & Wine Tasting: Adults can enjoy an indulgent pairing session at ‘Madi Hiyaa’, ending the day on a delightful note.

December 31st – New Year’s Eve Extravaganza

• Sunset Cocktails: Visitors can bid farewell to the year with bespoke cocktails at Naiboli Beach, as the sun sets over the horizon.
• New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner: Sangu Garden and Naiboli Beach will host a lavish feast, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening.
• Live DJ & Countdown: Guests can dance beneath the stars, celebrating the arrival of the new year with music, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

Featured Experiences Throughout the Festive Season:

• Excursions & Adventures: Guests can partake in activities such as big game fishing, sunset cruises, and night snorkelling, discovering excitement across the tropical paradise.
• Entertainment for All Ages: Cultural performances, treasure hunts for children, and live bands at Naiboli Beach ensure fun for everyone.
• Culinary Delights: Cooking classes, wine pairings, and exquisite degustation menus at ‘Madi Hiyaa’ and Saffron delight culinary enthusiasts.

Every moment on these twin islands is thoughtfully designed to create lasting memories. Surrounded by loved ones, breathtaking scenery, and exceptional experiences, visitors are invited to capture the festive magic and make it the highlight of their year.