News
Experience All the Magic of Easter in Full Bloom at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas
Easter is a wondrous time of rebirth and regeneration, and what better way to experience this magical transition than amidst the full blooming glory of a Spring Wonderland Adventure on a tropical island paradise. Welcome to Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, where the enchantment of Easter meets the magic of springtime to reawaken your sense of joyous wonderment.
Get in the Easter groove on Wednesday 27 March at Manzaru Restaurant as the fun begins by the pool with the Easter Splash Pool Party. With the tunes flowing from the resort’s resident DJ and a selection of gourmet treats for you to savour, it’s time to make a splash in a fun-filled afternoon of family-friendly pool games and watersports activities. Then after the sun goes down, the fun is turned up at Sky Bar with one of Anantara Kihavah’s legendary White Parties, where white clothes, good times and island glamour are the order of the day. Don’t worry if you miss it. The next White Party is less than a week away on Tuesday 2 April.
The excitement builds on Thursday 28 March with an Easter Bunny chocolate-making session at Plates Restaurant where the resort’s young guests learn to create delicious treats under the guidance of the restaurant’s chefs. Later in the day, it’s time for the little ones to head over to the Kids Club to see if they can catch the elusive Easter Bunny! The resort’s bigger guests have a chance to get into the swing of spring too as they are invited to engage in some friendly competition at the Easter Tennis Open, featuring both singles and doubles matches.
In the evening, guests have the choice of either joining An Island Soiree for an evening of free flowing Champagne and canapés, or indulging their senses at Six-Metres Below with Duval Leroy – Dégustation Secrète. Presented by The Finest of Kihavah Wine Dinner, this exclusive evening of gastronomic indulgence features an exquisite 5-course dining event expertly paired with versatile Champagnes from Duval-Leroy, all served in the mesmerising surrounds of SEA Underwater Restaurant, six metres below the ocean surface.
March 29 is Good Friday and it’s a good day for fashion lovers of all ages. For the more sophisticated fashionistas, what better way to spend a lunchtime than sipping and shopping as you enjoy a glass of Champagne while browsing through Anantara’s stunning boutique collections at Sip ‘N’ Style Champagne Shopping. Fashion-loving kids have the chance to blossom like spring flowers as they strut their stuff on the catwalk later in the day at the Spring Chic Easter Kids Fashion Show.
Saturday is soccer day, even on a tropical island paradise. Anantara Kihavah’s guests are invited to join in the Friendly Football Match as they work up a thirst and an appetite for the evening’s main event, Spring Wonderland: An Enchanting Easter Gala. This evening of
Easter enchantment begins with cocktails and live entertainment surrounded by floral glamour and caressed by the refreshing Maldivian breeze at Manzaru before the fun moves onto Kihavah Beach for the magic of an Easter Gala Dinner with soft white sands beneath your feet and stunning Indian Ocean views providing the perfect backdrop. As you feast on a rich array of culinary delights, and live entertainment keep the magical Easter spirit flowing.
As you would expect, Easter Sunday is packed full of activities for the whole family. The fun begins at the Kid’s Club from 11:30 with Easter T-shirt Painting, as the little ones have the chance to express their creative side by decorating their t-shirts with everything from abstract glittery scenes to their favourite characters. Next up, it’s time for the whole family to come together for a floral-themed Easter Sunday Brunch at Manzaru Restaurant. Bloom and Brunch features signature dishes from each restaurant, decadent sweets and desserts, and chilled beverages, all served against the soul-soothing backdrop of live music and stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
After brunch, the young and young-at-heart are invited to create their own fun Easter designs with Egg-cellent Chocolate Easter Egg Decorating under the supervision of the resort’s chefs. Then later in the afternoon, it’s time for more family fun and adventure with the Grand Easter Egg Hunt at 4:00 pm. Starting from the Kid’s Club, the whole family can join in the traditional search for hidden eggs amidst the verdant greenery and flora along the pathway to Plates Restaurant, with the Easter Bunny on hand to provide encouragement and clues.
Easter Monday begins with a chance to discover the amazing artistry of THONArtisan, a local resin artist who draws inspiration from the breathtaking natural wonders of the Maldives, particularly the shorelines and islands. The Resin Art Workshop is separated into an adult session in the morning and a kid’s class in the afternoon. Later in the afternoon, the young guests are invited to put on their pirate hats and join the Easter Bunny on the Pirate Bunny Cruise as they go in search of fun and adventure while exploring the captivating sights of the Indian Ocean.
As the sun sets on another day in Paradise, the Finest of Kihavah Wine Dinner Presents a Journey to Super Tuscan, where the exquisitely-crafted flavours of a 5-course dinner prepared by Executive Chef Joachim Textor are paired with iconic Tuscan wines by Anantara Kihavah’s Resident Wine Maestro, Lenka Praveen, to create a perfect harmony of flavours for 20 lucky guests in this exclusive dining event.
The Easter programme comes to a close with a friendly Kids Football Match on Tuesday 2 April, but every day is fun day for kids at Anantara Kihavah with full programme of games and activities available throughout the Easter period and beyond.
Of course, for many guests, Anantara Kihavah is an island retreat where time moves more slowly as they connect with nature’s healing energies to revive mind, body and spirit through the lovingly curated treatments of Anantara Spa. While every day offers opportunities to refresh and reinvigorate, with the rebirth symbolism of Easter and Spring, what better time to embark on a journey of rejuvenation than in the blossoming days of Spring Wonderland. In addition to all the usual favourite spa journeys, the Easter Programme features a number of specially curated treatments to help you blossom like a spring flower.
This Easter, discover a whimsical world of pastels and petals, as you enjoy a host of fun filled family activities, from beach games to an Easter Gala Dinner, while the little ones spark their curiosity and imagination in an Easter egg hunt, a kids’ fashion show, a Pirate Cruise and so much more! Embark on culinary and water adventures or choose to refresh and reinvigorate on a bespoke wellness journey in a tranquil getaway.
Easter is a wondrous time of rebirth and regeneration, and what better way to experience this magical transition than amidst the full blooming glory of a Spring Wonderland Adventure on a tropical island paradise. Welcome to Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, where the enchantment of Easter meets the magic of springtime to reawaken your sense of joyous wonderment.
Get in the Easter groove on Wednesday 27 March at Manzaru Restaurant as the fun begins by the pool with the Easter Splash Pool Party. With the tunes flowing from the resort’s resident DJ and a selection of gourmet treats for you to savour, it’s time to make a splash in a fun-filled afternoon of family-friendly pool games and watersports activities. Then after the sun goes down, the fun is turned up at Sky Bar with one of Anantara Kihavah’s legendary White Parties, where white clothes, good times and island glamour are the order of the day. Don’t worry if you miss it. The next White Party is less than a week away on Tuesday 2 April.
The excitement builds on Thursday 28 March with an Easter Bunny chocolate-making session at Plates Restaurant where the resort’s young guests learn to create delicious treats under the guidance of the restaurant’s chefs. Later in the day, it’s time for the little ones to head over to the Kids Club to see if they can catch the elusive Easter Bunny! The resort’s bigger guests have a chance to get into the swing of spring too as they are invited to engage in some friendly competition at the Easter Tennis Open, featuring both singles and doubles matches.
In the evening, guests have the choice of either joining An Island Soiree for an evening of free flowing Champagne and canapés, or indulging their senses at Six-Metres Below with Duval Leroy – Dégustation Secrète. Presented by The Finest of Kihavah Wine Dinner, this exclusive evening of gastronomic indulgence features an exquisite 5-course dining event expertly paired with versatile Champagnes from Duval-Leroy, all served in the mesmerising surrounds of SEA Underwater Restaurant, six metres below the ocean surface.
March 29 is Good Friday and it’s a good day for fashion lovers of all ages. For the more sophisticated fashionistas, what better way to spend a lunchtime than sipping and shopping as you enjoy a glass of Champagne while browsing through Anantara’s stunning boutique collections at Sip ‘N’ Style Champagne Shopping. Fashion-loving kids have the chance to blossom like spring flowers as they strut their stuff on the catwalk later in the day at the Spring Chic Easter Kids Fashion Show.
Saturday is soccer day, even on a tropical island paradise. Anantara Kihavah’s guests are invited to join in the Friendly Football Match as they work up a thirst and an appetite for the evening’s main event, Spring Wonderland: An Enchanting Easter Gala. This evening of Easter enchantment begins with cocktails and live entertainment surrounded by floral glamour and caressed by the refreshing Maldivian breeze at Manzaru before the fun moves onto Kihavah Beach for the magic of an Easter Gala Dinner with soft white sands beneath your feet and stunning Indian Ocean views providing the perfect backdrop. As you feast on a rich array of culinary delights, and live entertainment keep the magical Easter spirit flowing.
As you would expect, Easter Sunday is packed full of activities for the whole family. The fun begins at the Kid’s Club from 11:30 with Easter T-shirt Painting, as the little ones have the chance to express their creative side by decorating their t-shirts with everything from abstract glittery scenes to their favourite characters. Next up, it’s time for the whole family to come together for a floral-themed Easter Sunday Brunch at Manzaru Restaurant. Bloom and Brunch features signature dishes from each restaurant, decadent sweets and desserts, and chilled beverages, all served against the soul-soothing backdrop of live music and stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
After brunch, the young and young-at-heart are invited to create their own fun Easter designs with Egg-cellent Chocolate Easter Egg Decorating under the supervision of the resort’s chefs. Then later in the afternoon, it’s time for more family fun and adventure with the Grand Easter Egg Hunt at 4:00 pm. Starting from the Kid’s Club, the whole family can join in the traditional search for hidden eggs amidst the verdant greenery and flora along the pathway to Plates Restaurant, with the Easter Bunny on hand to provide encouragement and clues.
Easter Monday begins with a chance to discover the amazing artistry of THONArtisan, a local resin artist who draws inspiration from the breathtaking natural wonders of the Maldives, particularly the shorelines and islands. The Resin Art Workshop is separated into an adult session in the morning and a kid’s class in the afternoon. Later in the afternoon, the young guests are invited to put on their pirate hats and join the Easter Bunny on the Pirate Bunny Cruise as they go in search of fun and adventure while exploring the captivating sights of the Indian Ocean.
As the sun sets on another day in Paradise, the Finest of Kihavah Wine Dinner Presents a Journey to Super Tuscan, where the exquisitely-crafted flavours of a 5-course dinner prepared by Executive Chef Joachim Textor are paired with iconic Tuscan wines by Anantara Kihavah’s Resident Wine Maestro, Lenka Praveen, to create a perfect harmony of flavours for 20 lucky guests in this exclusive dining event.
The Easter programme comes to a close with a friendly Kids Football Match on Tuesday 2 April, but every day is fun day for kids at Anantara Kihavah with full programme of games and activities available throughout the Easter period and beyond.
Of course, for many guests, Anantara Kihavah is an island retreat where time moves more slowly as they connect with nature’s healing energies to revive mind, body and spirit through the lovingly curated treatments of Anantara Spa. While every day offers opportunities to refresh and reinvigorate, with the rebirth symbolism of Easter and Spring, what better time to embark on a journey of rejuvenation than in the blossoming days of Spring Wonderland. In addition to all the usual favourite spa journeys, the Easter Programme features a number of specially curated treatments to help you blossom like a spring flower.
This Easter, discover a whimsical world of pastels and petals, as you enjoy a host of fun filled family activities, from beach games to an Easter Gala Dinner, while the little ones spark their curiosity and imagination in an Easter egg hunt, a kids’ fashion show, a Pirate Cruise and so much more! Embark on culinary and water adventures or choose to refresh and reinvigorate on a bespoke wellness journey in a tranquil getaway.
Whatever you do this Easter, rediscover wonder and embrace adventure in Anantara Kihavah’s exotic island retreat, where life always shines on the sunny side. For more information or to book, call +960 664 4111, visit www.anantara.com/kihavah-maldives or email reservations.maldives@anantara.com.
Cooking
Dusit Thani Maldives launches SALA: new vegan dining experience
Dusit Thani Maldives is enhancing its acclaimed culinary experience with the launch of SALA, a new vegan restaurant that features nutrient-rich, plant-based dishes made from premium locally sourced ingredients and produce grown in the resort’s own organic gardens.
SALA has been developed in collaboration with Chef Celia Lam, co-leader of the Slow Food Community Bangkok and an instructor at The Food School – Thailand’s premier academy of gastronomy with business incubation services, affiliated with Dusit Hospitality Education. The restaurant offers a carefully curated ‘plant-powered’ menu, with standout dishes like Greek orzo salad, baked spiced pumpkin, and eggplant steak a la plancha. A variety of salads, soups, and mains are also thoughtfully crafted to provide a delightful culinary experience.
Set in a traditional Thai-style house overlooking the turquoise waters of Baa Atoll, SALA reflects Dusit’s signature Thai-inspired hospitality. Its opening also aligns with Dusit International’s Tree of Life sustainability program, which focuses on environmental preservation, health, and well-being. By incorporating organic, plant-based cuisine into its dining options, Dusit Thani Maldives reaffirms its commitment to promoting sustainability and wellness within the luxury travel sector.
SALA will officially open on November 1, 2024. To mark the occasion, Chef Celia Lam will host exclusive masterclasses and interactive workshops from November 1-4, offering guests the chance to learn how to create exceptional vegan dishes using fresh, wholesome ingredients.
“This new organic restaurant underscores our commitment to fostering healthy, sustainable living while delivering an exceptional dining experience,” said Jean-Louis Ripoche, Area General Manager, Maldives. “We are thrilled to welcome Chef Celia Lam, whose passion for sustainability aligns with our vision. We are confident that SALA will appeal to health-conscious travellers looking for a transformative dining experience.”
Located in the heart of the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Dusit Thani Maldives offers a peaceful retreat that blends Thai-inspired luxury with Maldivian culture. Guests can enjoy unique experiences, including encounters with vibrant marine life, world-class wellness at Devarana Wellness, fine dining, luxurious villas, and a wide range of activities set against the stunning natural beauty of the Maldives.
Celebration
Experience luxury, adventure, and festive joy at Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa
Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa is enhancing its guest experience this holiday season with the introduction of Nature’s Mystique, a festive programme that celebrates the beauty of nature through a range of curated experiences. This programme offers a variety of activities, from enchanting dining options to rejuvenating wellness sessions and exciting recreational opportunities, ensuring that guests of all ages can enjoy their stay. Separate activity calendars are provided for children and teens, allowing families to fully embrace their holiday in the Maldives.
The Nature’s Mystique programme kicks off with a magical Christmas tree lighting ceremony and carol singing on December 21, followed by a cocktail reception to set the festive mood for the season.
On Christmas morning, Santa Claus will arrive at the resort to spread goodwill and joy, distributing gifts to guests throughout the day. The festive celebrations will continue with a New Year’s Eve gala dinner, where guests can enjoy a lively evening of food, live music, and fireworks.
The resort is filled with Christmas spirit, offering various festive activities for guests of all ages. At Krakengiri Kids’ Club, one of the largest kids’ clubs in the Maldives, children aged 4-12 can explore their creativity with pottery classes, art competitions, and jewellery-making workshops. The club also hosts pirate-themed cruises, treasure hunts, pyjama parties, and seaside fashion shows to keep the young ones entertained.
For teens, Krakengiri Kids’ Club offers an engaging range of activities, including tubing, competitive kayaking, football matches, water polo, and the Beat the Pro Badminton challenge. Teens can also participate in a zero-proof mixology workshop, TRX training, and high-intensity Tabata workout sessions.
Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa provides opportunities for families to bond and create lasting memories. Families can participate in Frisbee matches, beach volleyball, and table tennis tournaments. The resort also offers tennis clinics on its versatile tennis court, which is ideal for both tennis and pickleball, as well as a new padel court for padel tennis enthusiasts.
For more adrenaline-fueled family activities, guests can join guided Snorkie Talkie tours led by the resort’s marine biologist, as well as parasailing and Jet Ski trips to local sandbars. Additional experiences include night fishing trips, dolphin safaris, and sunset cruises with Santa Claus.
Guests can indulge in a variety of festive events at the resort’s restaurants and cafes. Sip Tea Lounge will host Christmas high teas and tea blending classes, while Beach Shack presents themed beach buffets. Aura Pool Bar will offer pool parties, club nights, and a Bartender Competition. The Cocktail Lab will feature Christmas-themed mixology masterclasses and cocktail pairing workshops.
The resort’s over-water restaurant, Origin, will serve a classic Christmas menu, and Eden Champagne & Gin Bar will surprise guests with rum and chocolate pairings, along with seasonal variations on the Negroni. Habitat will offer themed buffets, while wine dinners and the much-anticipated Chef’s Table will showcase the theme “The Five Elements of Nature.”
Guests visiting Amingiri Spa & Hammam during the festive season can indulge in a range of treatments designed to renew the soul and restore vitality. Treatments include Woodland Wonder, a herbal massage and steam bath; Ocean’s Embrace, a spirulina body wrap and salt stone treatment; and Island Bliss, a luxurious hammam bath ritual followed by a massage and eucalyptus-scented steam bath.
Whether planning a short getaway or an extended holiday, Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa provides the perfect combination of luxury, comfort, and adventure for families seeking a holiday escape in paradise.
Drink
From garden to glass: Milaidhoo Maldives elevates cocktails with freshly sourced ingredients
At Milaidhoo Maldives, mixology has been taken to the next level with the introduction of the Chef’s Garden, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients elevate every cocktail. The private island resort’s mixologists now have direct access to an array of herbs, spices, fruits, and vegetables, allowing them to hand-select the freshest ingredients for garnishing and creating cocktails. This direct farm-to-glass approach ensures that every drink is bursting with vibrant flavours, enhancing the guest experience with unparalleled freshness.
To mark the unveiling of the Chef’s Garden, Milaidhoo introduces the Garden Elixir, a signature cocktail created by the resort’s talented mixologists. This drink features Botanist Gin, celebrated for its complex herbal and spice notes, and is enhanced with freshly harvested herbs from the garden. The Garden Elixir captures the essence of the Maldives, offering a refreshing, aromatic experience that is as unique as the island itself.
The Chef’s Garden is not only a source of fresh ingredients but also an interactive space for guests. Visitors are encouraged to explore the garden, learn about the local vegetation, and discover the culinary and mixological benefits of these plants. The tranquil setting provides the perfect backdrop for cooking and cocktail-making classes led by resident chefs and mixologists, or even private dining experiences under the stars, adding another enchanting dimension to the resort’s diverse dining options.
Executive Chef Ken Gundu, the visionary behind the Chef’s Garden, emphasises the importance of growing local produce in the Maldives. “In an island setting like ours, cultivating our own vegetables is essential to ensuring freshness and offering guests a sustainable, healthier dining and drinking experience. The Chef’s Garden allows us to deliver the highest quality ingredients, straight from the garden to the plate and glass. Our kitchen and bar are proud to showcase this level of freshness,” says Gundu.
Milaidhoo’s commitment to sustainability is furthered by the Chef’s Garden, which reduces the need for imported ingredients, cutting the resort’s carbon footprint and supporting eco-friendly practices. By growing much of its own produce, Milaidhoo not only helps to meet daily food requirements but also ensures guests enjoy the most natural and wholesome ingredients.
While Milaidhoo is famed for its stunning marine life in the UNESCO-listed Baa Atoll, the island’s commitment to sustainability through initiatives like the Chef’s Garden showcases its inner beauty. This project highlights Milaidhoo’s dedication to eco-conscious tourism and its harmonious connection with the environment. By integrating local agriculture into its culinary operations, Milaidhoo continues to lead the way in sustainable luxury and culinary innovation.
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