News
Hurawalhi Island Resort Earns Coveted Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Rating for 2024

Hurawalhi Island Resort, nestled in the pristine Lhaviyani Atoll of the Maldives, proudly announces its distinction as a recipient of the coveted Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Rating for 2024. This prestigious accolade illuminates the resort’s unwavering commitment to excellence in hospitality and its relentless pursuit of providing unparalleled guest experiences.
Distinguished among the world’s finest luxury destinations, Hurawalhi Island Resort exemplifies the pinnacle of opulence and service. From the azure waters of the Indian Ocean to the immaculate white sands, every aspect of the resort embodies a harmonious blend of elegance and tranquility.
“We are elated to be recognized among this year’s esteemed group of award winners,” remarked Mohamed Solah, the visionary Chief Operating Officer of Crown and Champa Resorts. “This achievement reflects the tireless dedication of our team, who consistently strive to exceed expectations and create unforgettable memories for our cherished guests. It marks a historic milestone since the inception of Hurawalhi in December 2016, underscoring our unwavering commitment to redefining luxury in the Maldives.”
The Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star award, unveiled on www.forbestravelguide.com at 9 a.m. Eastern on February 7, 2024, solidifies Hurawalhi Island Resort’s status as an unparalleled sanctuary of indulgence and sophistication.
Now in its 66th year, the Forbes Travel Guide Star Awards honor destinations that epitomize excellence in service and luxury. Leveraging the expertise of incognito inspectors, the guide meticulously curates a collection of the world’s most exceptional properties, ensuring each embodies the epitome of refinement and hospitality.
From Mauritius to Macau, this year’s list showcases an array of captivating destinations, with Hurawalhi Island Resort in the Maldives, proudly standing among the select few recognized for their unparalleled commitment to guest satisfaction.
Notably, in 2022, Hurawalhi Island Resort’s sister property, Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, also attained the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Rating, further accentuating the impeccable standards upheld by the Crown and Champa Resorts collection.
Hurawalhi Island Resort extends its heartfelt appreciation to its devoted team members whose unwavering dedication and passion have been instrumental in achieving this remarkable milestone.
About Hurawalhi Island Resort: Discover a realm of unparalleled luxury and tranquility at Hurawalhi Island Resort. Nestled amidst the captivating beauty of the Maldives’ Lhaviyani Atoll, the resort offers a sanctuary where opulence meets serenity. With world-class amenities, breathtaking accommodations, and unparalleled service, Hurawalhi Island Resort invites guests to embark on a journey of unparalleled luxury and discovery.
Awards
The St. Regis Maldives recognised among Maldives’ top 10 hotels in DestinAsian 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, an exquisite sanctuary of unparalleled luxury, has been voted as one of the Top 10 Best Hotels in the Maldives by the esteemed readers of DestinAsian in the recently concluded 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. This prestigious recognition underscores the resort’s commitment to delivering world-class hospitality, exceptional service, and immersive island experiences that captivate global travelers.
The DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards is an annual accolade celebrating the finest in luxury travel, as determined by the discerning readers of DestinAsian magazine. Recognizing excellence in hospitality, service, and guest experiences, the awards highlight the best hotels, resorts, airlines, and destinations across Asia and beyond. Being named among the Top 10 Best Hotels in the Maldives is a testament to The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort’s dedication to providing an unparalleled guest experience.
Nestled in the pristine Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is a secluded paradise where avant-garde architecture meets the untouched beauty of the Indian Ocean. Surrounded by lush tropical landscapes, powder-soft beaches, and crystal-clear waters, the resort offers an unparalleled escape in one of the world’s most coveted destinations.
Featuring 77 luxuriously appointed villas, each designed to harmonize with the natural surroundings, the resort redefines opulence with private terraces, pools, and breathtaking ocean or garden views. Among its signature accommodations, the overwater John Jacob Astor Estate stands out as an epitome of grandeur, boasting three lavish bedrooms, a private gym, and dedicated massage rooms. Meanwhile, the beachfront Caroline Astor Estate enchants with panoramic views, a sprawling 67-square-meter infinity pool, and refined living spaces.
Guests at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort can immerse themselves in an array of curated experiences, from exploring the vibrant marine ecosystem through snorkeling and diving to indulging in bespoke yacht excursions aboard Norma, the resort’s private luxury yacht. With a steadfast commitment to sustainability, the resort spearheads coral restoration programs led by its dedicated Marine Biologist, ensuring the preservation of its breathtaking underwater world.
Renowned for its hallmark St. Regis Butler Service, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort continues to set new standards of hospitality, seamlessly blending adventure, relaxation, and impeccable service. This latest recognition by DestinAsian readers further solidifies its reputation as one of the premier luxury retreats in the Maldives.
Family
Lily Beach Resort introduces egg-citing Easter programme

This Easter, escape to the luxurious shores of Lily Beach Resort & Spa, where an exciting lineup of experiences awaits. From exclusive excursions, wellness activities, themed dining, to weekly evening entertainment, get ready for the holiday of a lifetime, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Maldives.
Located in the beautiful South Ari atoll, Lily Beach is home to a thriving house-reef of exquisite marine life. From small colourful anemones to friendly sea-turtles, the 360 degrees of beautiful underwater views provide endless opportunities for guests to indulge in and explore the beauty underneath.
This year, to make our Easter an extra special one, we are delighted to welcome Silke Deininger, a certified fitness trainer with years of experience leading dynamic and engaging fitness classes.
Specialising in customised group fitness programs for luxury resorts worldwide, Silke is dedicated to helping guests stay active, healthy, and energised throughout their stay.
With a passion for fitness, Silke has built a career around creating inspiring workout experiences that cater to all levels. Whether by the pool, on the beach, or in the resort’s fitness space, her sessions offer a perfect balance of muscle-building, fat-burning, and relaxation during this Easter.
Guests at Lily Beach can immerse themselves in an array of unforgettable experiences this Easter. From exploring the resort’s thriving house reef and snorkelling through vibrant coral gardens to embarking on an exclusive turtle tour, the natural beauty of the Maldives awaits. For those seeking adventure on the open water, a sunset dolphin safari or a serene evening cruise offers breathtaking views. Meanwhile, active travellers can stay energised with water sports, and full-body workouts at the resort’s tennis court. To unwind, guests can also enjoy a relaxing, rejuvenating massage at our unique, overwater, Tamara Spa. With unobstructed views, and glass bottom flooring to view the playful fish underwater, the spa is favourite for our guests.
Families can look forward to an enchanting Easter egg hunt, where children can search for hidden treasures scattered throughout the resort. Creative minds will be engaged in arts and crafts sessions, allowing young guests to express their creativity and craft memorable souvenirs. For the more adventurous, sandcastle building competitions on the pristine beaches provide fun-filled challenges under the Maldivian sun. Additionally, interactive storytelling sessions will captivate imaginations, immersing children in tales of wonder and adventure.
These thoughtfully curated activities ensure that every family member experiences the magic of Easter in paradise, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. The Turtle Kids Club hosts a range of interactive experiences, from crab races to kite flying, ensuring endless fun throughout the holiday.
Guests can indulge in a feast for the senses with themed dining experiences, including ‘Seafood Extravaganza,’ ‘Maldivian Night,’ and ‘Mediterranean Feast’ at the buffet restaurant Lily Maa. Evenings come alive with captivating performances, from live bands and Balinese dancers to the rhythmic beats of Maldivian Bodu Beru drummers. Guests can also enjoy Hollywood movie nights under the stars or dance the night away at the lively DJ parties at Vibes. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or quality family time, Lily Beach Resort & Spa ensures an Easter celebration filled with magical moments.
For more information, click here. For bookings, please click here.
Action
Nova Maldives, PADI partner for transformative Ocean Adventure Week with India Black this July

This summer, Nova Maldives, the soulful island resort, is proudly partnering with the world’s leading scuba diving organisation, PADI, to host a unique ocean adventure week from 13 to 20 July, in celebration of PADI’s 11th Women’s Dive Day on 19 July 2025.
Nova & PADI’s Transformative Ocean Adventure Week will be co-hosted by PADI AmbassaDiver, conservation advocate, and broadcaster India Black, and PADI Regional Manager for the Maldives Matt Wenger, inviting ocean lovers from around the world to immerse themselves in diving, conservation, and community, while discovering the transformative power of the ocean and promoting sustainable diving practices.
Taking place at Nova’s stunning South Ari Atoll location, this event will feature guided dives, marine conservation workshops, and sustainability-focused training. Guests will have the rare opportunity to explore the protected pristine waters of the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA), witness diverse marine life, including manta rays and whale sharks, and deepen their understanding of ethical diving and ocean stewardship.
Leading the way alongside PADI AmbassaDiver India Black is PADI Regional Manager Matt Wenger, who brings nearly three decades of experience as a PADI Pro. Now in his tenth year overseeing PADI’s presence in the Maldives, Matt has played a key role in expanding PADI’s reach across both luxury resorts and emerging local island destinations. His dedication to sustainability and marine conservation aligns closely with PADI’s Three Pillars of Change, ensuring that responsible diving and environmental awareness remain at the heart of this experience. A passionate storyteller and advocate for ocean conservation, India Black has dedicated her career to inspiring people to adventure further, care for themselves, and protect the planet. Having spent time rehabilitating sea turtles in the Whitsundays, paddling 110km across Hawaii’s Alenuihaha Channel, and championing marine protection initiatives worldwide, her connection to the ocean runs deep. For India, the water has always been a place of healing and personal growth, and she hopes this event will encourage others to experience the same. With Matt’s deep expertise in the Maldives diving scene and India’s mission to connect people with the ocean, this event promises to be an inspiring, educational, and immersive week for all participants.
“The ocean has given me so much — peace, perspective, and connection — and I’m so passionate about helping others find that too,” says India Black. “This week is about more than just diving; it’s about learning how we can all play a part in protecting the marine world while building unforgettable memories in it.”
Hosted at Nova’s soulful island resort located in the breathtaking South Ari Atoll, the event offers guests a curated programme of conservation-focused activities, dives, and educational workshops designed to deepen their understanding of ocean protection. With India and Matt’s expertise, throughout the week, guests will experience:
- Manta Quest Snorkelling – Head off in search of majestic manta rays in their natural habitat.
- Whale Shark Snorkelling – Swim alongside the Maldives’ gentle giants in an unforgettable encounter.
- Turtle Quest – Discover the Maldives’ endangered sea turtles while learning about conservation efforts to protect them.
- Ocean Clean-Up Dive – Take hands-on action by removing marine debris from the reef.
- Blue Planet Movie Nights – Unwind under the stars with screenings of BBC’s Blue Planet series, deepening appreciation for the underwater world.
- Marine Conservation Talks & Workshops – Attend presentations on whale shark research, coral conservation, and PADI AWARE’s initiatives[ma1] , exploring sustainable diving and marine protection.
- Women’s Dive Day Celebration – A special PADI Women’s Dive Day event to encourage and empower more women to embrace diving and ocean conservation.
As partners of the MWSRP (The Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme) and accredited by Manta Trust as Responsible Manta Tourism Operator Nova is proud to support the conservation of the Maldives’ beautiful gentle giants. At the heart of the event is a commitment to sustainable tourism, ocean conservation, and community connection, values that align closely with India’s own mission. Having built a platform dedicated to encouraging others to adventure further, love themselves better, and protect the planet, India hopes to inspire attendees to see themselves as stewards of the ocean.
“My journey with the ocean has shaped who I am today, and I’ve learned that once you truly connect with the sea, you can’t help but want to protect it,” she says. “I’m so excited to dive alongside Nova’s guests, share what I’ve learned, and hopefully spark that same love for the water in them.”
Nova’s General Manager, Abdulla Aboobakuru, adds: “This event embodies everything we stand for at Nova — community, connection, and sustainability. Partnering with PADI and India Black gives us an incredible opportunity to not only showcase the natural beauty of the Maldives but also inspire guests to become lifelong ocean advocates.”
The Nova x PADI Transformative Ocean Adventure Week from 13 to 20 July 2025 is available to book exclusively through Nova , with limited spots available. Full Board Plus rates start at USD 493/night in a Beach Villa and USD 694/night in a Water Villa (inclusive of tax) based on two adults sharing when booked direct.
-
Featured6 days ago
Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives announces grand opening
-
News1 week ago
Discover Maldives like never before at Angsana Velavaru
-
Cooking1 week ago
Michelin magic in Maldives: Chef Wassim Hallal’s spring residency at Soneva Fushi
-
Awards1 week ago
Summer Island Maldives wins TUI Global Hotel Awards Quality 2025
-
Family1 week ago
Easter awakening at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island: Celebration of spring, rejuvenation
-
Action1 week ago
Join football legend Teddy Sheringham at Amilla Maldives
-
News5 days ago
Noku Maldives invites guests to spellbinding Earth Hour 2025 celebration
-
News4 days ago
Cricket icon Rohit Sharma enjoy family vacation at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi