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W Maldives and Perrier® Present a Three-Day Affair with Seoul’s Bar Cham in Maldives

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Nestled on the heart-shaped Fesdu Island and surrounded by one of the best  house reefs in the country, W Maldives invites you to imbibe in a captivating rendezvous. In partnership  with Perrier®, the resort is set to have you embark on a three-day affair with the crème de la crème of  Seoul’s cocktail culture—Bar Cham. From March 7 to 9, 2024, the luxury playground becomes a canvas  for this collaboration, painting the paradise escape with strokes of sophistication and fizz. 

Perrier®, synonymous with excellence in sparkling water, has been a steadfast supporter of the vibrant  creative world aiming to put spotlight on emerging artists from painters to beverage creators. The  brand’s support in the cocktail culture is particularly evident in its active involvement as the title sponsor  and Official Water Partner of World’s 50 Best Bars and Asia’s 50 Best Bars. Recognized for its  commitment to sophistication and it unique qualities, Perrier® has become the beverage of choice for  mixologists seeking to elevate their creations. Now, in a groundbreaking collaboration, Perrier® extends  its influence to the W Maldives, bringing the renowned Bar Cham from Seoul to the luxury resort’s  pristine shores. 

Kicking off the collaboration is a special Ocean To The Table dinner on March 7, 2024, at W Maldives’  overwater restaurant, FISH. Dive into a symphony of flavors, where Chef Baka’s signature culinary  creations are paired with Bar Cham’s award-winning cocktails. Savor the unique union of rich Maldivian  taste and the contemporary twists on Korea’s traditional spirits. The evening will not just be a dinner; it’s  a celestial affair under the stars and a soirée for the senses.

On March 8, a unique cocktail master class experience awaits at W Maldives’ private island,  Gaathafushi. The class will be led by Bar Cham’s Bar Manager and Senior Bartender, Yeonghwi Yun and  Myeongmin Kim, respectively, where they will reveal the secrets behind their award-winning concoctions  against a canvas of the tropical paradise. This exclusive experience is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to  get a sneak peek into the artisanship of Bar Cham’s creations. The master class concludes with an  intimate sunset session on the island where the natural beauty beckons you to simply enjoy the moment. 

The curtain falls on March 9, 2024, where Bar Cham is set to stage a coup at the resort’s overwater bar,  SIP. The bar takeover will unleash a spectacle of mixology mastery featuring a specially curated menu  just for the evening. Expect to sip, savor, and be surprised as Myeongmin Kim commandeers the scene  with a flair found nowhere else. The evening will also be amplified by the groovy tunes churned by W  Maldives’ music curator, Richard Ulh. 

“We are very thrilled to collaborate with Perrier® to bring the great talent behind the award-winning Bar  Cham to our shores. Perrier®’s commitment to providing top-of-the-line products and Bar Cham’s  dedication to providing a distinctive experience while highlighting the importance of staying true to local  wisdom truly match W Maldives’ stance in creating inspiring and meaningful activations for our guests,”  said Alexander Lopez, Resort Manager of W Maldives. He also adds, “Here at our luxury playground, we  are always trying to find ways to keep elevating our Beverage & Food offerings through distinctive  experiences. This collaboration with Perrier® and Bar Cham presents an opportunity for us to amplify W  Hotels’ passion points—TASTE—while showcasing the amazing talents behind the notable bars from all  over the world.” 

Bar Cham, an illustrious presence in Seoul’s cocktail landscape since 2018, offers a sensory voyage  through local spirits and meticulously sourced Korean produce. In a testament to their artistry, Bar Cham  secured the 13th position in Asia’s 50 Best Bars in 2023 and an impressive 75th in the World’s Best Bar  rankings. Leading this symphony of taste are Yeonghwi Yun and Myeongmin Kim, Bar Cham’s Bar  Manager and Senior Bartender, the creative geniuses who have redefined mixology. This duo seamlessly  blends traditional Korean liquors with the finest seasonal produce, resulting in a unique imbibing  experience that transcends the ordinary. 

Hosting Bar Cham at W Maldives along with Perrier®, represents a harmonious blend of innovative  mixology and breathtaking surroundings. This collaboration creates an exclusive and luxurious setting for  guests to savor the finesse of Korea’s cocktail craftsmanship in a tropical paradise that offers an  unparalleled experience that embodies refined indulgence that transcends the ordinary. Book your spot  in all the events throughout this three-day affair via our website or connect directly with our team at  reservations.wmaldives@whotels.com. 

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Kuredhivaru Resort and Spa secures three Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence

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Kuredhivaru Resort and Spa has been recognised by Wine Spectator with the 2026 Award of Excellence for all three of its dining venues: Oak Lounge Wine Cellar, Bodumas and Latitude 5.5.

The Wine Spectator Restaurant Awards recognise restaurants whose wine lists offer quality selections that complement their cuisine while meeting high standards for accuracy and presentation.The Award of Excellence is presented to restaurants whose wine lists feature at least 75 selections and provide guests with a well-balanced choice of producers, styles and price points.

Under the direction of Head Sommelier Sasho Petereski, the resort’s wine programme spans approximately more than 300 labels across the three restaurants. Each wine list has been carefully developed to complement the individual dining concept of each venue, while all wines are maintained in temperature-controlled storage to preserve their quality and character. The selections range from well-known international producers to rare vintages, offering choices for both casual wine enthusiasts and experienced collectors.

Each restaurant presents a distinct dining experience. Latitude 5.5 pairs Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with an extensive wine selection, Bodumas specialises in Japanese-inspired cuisine complemented by wines from renowned wine regions, while Oak Lounge WineCellar focuses on curated wine experiences, including wine pairing dinners.

Receiving the Award of Excellence for all three restaurants highlights the resort’s commitment to maintaining internationally recognised standards in wine selection, storage and food pairing, while providing guests with wine lists that complement the unique character of each dining venue.

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A culinary journey across the globe at Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives

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Set within the tranquil waters of North Malé Atoll, just a short luxury speedboat journey from Velana International Airport, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives presents a refined expression of contemporary Maldivian living. Elegant overwater and beachfront villas and residences are thoughtfully designed with modern amenities, offering privacy, comfort, and a seamless connection to the island’s breathtaking natural surroundings.

At the heart of the resort lies a curated culinary world defined by six distinctive restaurants and four chic bars, each elevating dining into an immersive journey of flavour, atmosphere, and discovery. From interactive live cooking stations and theatrical Teppanyaki and tandoor experiences at The Gallery, to the refined Mediterranean character of Bluefin, every venue offers a distinct interpretation of global and island-inspired cuisine. Suan Bua reimagines authentic Thai flavours through a contemporary lens, while Acqua brings the warmth of Italian coastal dining to the Maldives. The Sailhouse offers relaxed beachfront dining in an open-air setting, and The Club provides a refined space for breakfast, sundowners, and canapés, defined by curated culinary moments and elevated service.

Complementing these are four distinctive bars: Coco Drift, a swim-up bar with views of the horizon; Sunset Social, featuring catamaran-style seating where golden-hour views meet signature cocktails; Rum Bar, a relaxed tropical escape with infused spirits and island-inspired cocktails; and Dolphin Bar, a laid-back swim-up venue for light refreshments and all-day leisure.

Beyond dining, the resort offers a holistic lifestyle experience anchored by three distinctive wellness concepts: SPA Cenvaree Retreat and SPA Cenvaree, delivering restorative wellbeing journeys through signature Thai-inspired therapies rooted in traditional healing philosophies; and Candy Spa, a vibrant concept designed for younger guests. Multiple kids’ clubs and E-Zones create engaging environments for children and teens, while fully equipped fitness centres support active wellbeing throughout the stay. A curated selection of water sports and marine adventures further enriches the experience, inviting guests to explore the lagoon through movement, discovery, and connection with nature.

Together, these elements define a seamless and elevated island experience where refined living, culinary artistry, wellness, and recreation come together in harmony, positioning Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives as a distinctive expression of modern Maldivian hospitality.

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St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort to host Asia’s culinary talents for ‘Across the Table’ dining experience

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The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort has unveiled its culinary programming as part of 2026 Marriott International’s Luxury Dining Series, presented under the theme Across the Table. This year’s edition brings together seven culinary talents, headlined by two-Michelin-starred Chef Emmanuel Stroobant from Saint Pierre in Singapore, alongside distinguished chefs from four St. Regis hotels across Asia—The St. Regis Bangkok, The St. Regis Mumbai, The St. Regis Singapore, and The St. Regis Osaka—who collaborate with the culinary artisans of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, together presenting a refined expression of culinary artistry, defined by craftsmanship and modern refinement across Asia.

At The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, guests are invited to experience Across the Table beyond the dining room through the Dine & Unwind Package, where signature culinary moments are paired with thoughtfully 4-night curated stays at the Maldives’ finest address, complemented by the legendary St. Regis Butler Service. Designed to inspire guests to slow the pace, deepen connections and the experience immerses guests in discover the destination’s distinct sense of place, elevating every moment shared at the table.
The following culinary program is presented through a thoughtfully curated series of immersive dining experiences, each designed to celebrate exceptional craftsmanship, cultural storytelling, and the art of gathering across every moment of the journey.

The Art of gathering: August 27

The experience begins along the shoreline in the late afternoon with a curated wine tasting experience, where guests are guided through a selection of wines, exploring the harmony between flavor, structure, and pairing. The experience is enriched by the presence of Thomas Ling, whose deep expertise in beverage culture brings a refined perspective to the art of pairing and craftsmanship.

As dusk sets in, the atmosphere shifts to The Whale Bar, where Brian Gonzalez from The St. Regis Bangkok presents a signature bar takeover, brings his globally refined approach to mixology, shaped by experience across leading European venues and recognized for creating award-winning cocktail programs. Brian reinterprets the legacy of refined cocktail culture, presenting a contemporary and expressive approach to the art of the drink.

The evening culminates at Orientale with an elegant four-course dining experience, where Executive Chinese Chef Chan Chung Shing of Yan Ting at The St. Regis Singapore, with over two decades of experience rooted in the Cantonese culinary tradition and Chef Abdelahad Ahmed present an elevated Japanese cuisine and contemporary interpretation of Pan Asian gastronomy. Each course reflects the distinctive perspectives of the two chefs, brought together through exceptional ingredients, precision, and thoughtful technique. The experience is further elevated through a curated sake pairing journey guided by Thomas Ling, bringing balance and depth to each course.

A mindful contemporary culinary journey: August 28

This chapter unfolds through a thoughtful balance of wellbeing and culinary expression. The experience begins with a guided breathing yoga session led by two Michelin-Starred Chef Emmanuel Stroobant, whose long-standing practice as a certified yoga instructor deeply immerses his culinary journey. Blending breathwork and culinary philosophy, the session explores the connection between mindfulness, nourishment, and intentional living through a calming and immersive practice designed to restore both body and mind. Set within an atmosphere of quiet sophistication at The Library, the experience unfolds as a reflective ritual where stillness, breath, and sensory awareness come together in balance.

This sense of harmony continues at ALBA, where guests are invited into an interactive four hands cooking class. Here, Chef Emmanuel is joined by Chef Ahmet Özuçucu, Executive Sous Chef at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, in a dynamic exchange of perspectives—blending Chef Ahmet’s Mediterranean roots and refined culinary approach with Chef Emmanuel’s globally inspired techniques. Limited to just 10 guests, the experience presents a rare insight into the philosophies and precision behind contemporary culinary craftsmanship.

As evening falls, the experience transitions into a richly layered Maldivian and Indian dining journey as Cargo welcomes Master Chef Taj Mohammed Sha of Sahib Room at The St. Regis Mumbai presenting family-style set menu. Known for his deep respect for regional Indian traditions and mastery of heritage recipes, Chef Taj crafts a menu that celebrates depth of flavor, authenticity, and storytelling. The evening is complemented by cocktail pairings curated by Brian Gonzalez.

Expressions of Seasonality and Culinary Artistry: August 29

The day begins at T•Pan with a curated Omakase lunch led by Chef Takato Kitano, from The St. Regis Osaka whose presence brings a new dimension to the Luxury Dining Series. Having begun his culinary journey as a teppanyaki chef in Osaka, Chef Kitano has developed a distinctive style shaped by both Japanese discipline and European culinary influences. His continued refinement under the guidance of Michelin-recognized talent reflects a growing reputation for precision, curiosity, and a deep respect for ingredient-driven cuisine.

At ALBA, two Michelin starred Chef Emmanuel Stroobant presents a refined four course set menu shaped by over two decades of culinary excellence and innovation. A pioneer of modern French cuisine in Asia, his work bridges classical European technique with Asian influences, creating dishes defined by balance, depth, and emotional resonance. This exclusive dining experience offers guests a rare opportunity to engage with one of the region’s most influential culinary voices—bringing the day to an elegant and memorable close.

A farewell with flavour: August 30

The final morning offers a calm and elegant close to the culinary journey. Guests gather for a Mediterranean-inspired breakfast in Alba, where simplicity, freshness, and quality take centre stage. Set in a relaxed atmosphere, the experience provides a moment of reflection—bringing together the flavour, conversations, and connections created over the course of the series.

Marriott Bonvoy Moments: August 26-30

Elevating the Luxury Dining Series, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort presents a one-of-a-kind stay-and-dine journey woven into the program, offering Marriott Bonvoy members privileged access to bid for immersive culinary encounters, behind-the-scenes experiences, and the most sought-after moments of the series.

The experience includes a five-night stay in an Overwater Villa with Pool, complemented by daily breakfast at ALBA and shared return seaplane transfers. At its core is a series of signature culinary moments, including a private six-course dinner with wine pairing curated by two Michelin-Starred Chef Emmanuel Stroobant, alongside a thoughtfully curated dine-around experience across The Whale Bar, Decanter, T•Pan, and Orientale, where each dining destination reveals a new expression of craftsmanship, and collaboration. Guided by storytelling and sensory discovery, the Dine Around Experience celebrates community, flavour, and shared moments across the island. Guests may place bids for exclusive experiences at Marriott Bonvoy Moments page until 17 July, 2026.

“Across the Table reflects our vision of creating meaningful luxury experiences that bring people together through exceptional cuisine, cultural connection, and immersive storytelling,” said Özgür Cengiz, General Manager of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. “Through this year’s Luxury Dining Series, we are honoured to welcome internationally acclaimed chefs and culinary talents to the Maldives, offering our guests a truly unforgettable journey shaped by Michelin-starred dining, wellness, and the art of gathering.”

Reservations for the Dine & Unwind Package and Luxury Dining Series experiences are now available. Discover more about The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort here.

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