Drink
W Maldives and Perrier® Present a Three-Day Affair with Seoul’s Bar Cham in Maldives
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.
Drink
Asia’s top mixology talent to lead cocktail takeover at JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll
JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort invites guests to discover an immersive three-night cocktail journey this June, featuring acclaimed mixologist Navjot Singh. Taking place across the resort’s distinctive venues from June 17 to 19, 2026, the exclusive bar takeover will present a curated series of innovative tropical cocktail experiences inspired by island living, craftsmanship, and storytelling.
Led by Navjot Singh, Beverage Program Leader at Lair Bar, the experience brings one of Asia’s most celebrated contemporary cocktail programs to the Maldives. Recognised as No. 8 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025, Lair Bar is renowned for its innovative approach to mixology, blending luxury spirits, creativity, and immersive storytelling. Navjot himself was recently crowned World Class India 2025, cementing his reputation as one of the industry’s leading talents.
Joining him is Nakul Dev, Senior Bartender at LAIR BAR, whose creative approach is deeply inspired by the flavours and ingredients of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. With over six years of experience in hospitality and cocktails, Nakul is known for crafting ingredient-driven drinks that reflect the essence of the mountains and local produce from his hometown. His passion for flavour development and exploration of new techniques brings an additional layer of creativity and depth to the collaboration.

Set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, the takeover will unfold across three distinct venues, each offering its own atmosphere and cocktail narrative. At Nikkei Bar, guests will enjoy an exclusive sunset activation where thoughtfully crafted cocktails elevate golden-hour moments with refined tropical flavours and interactive guest experiences. Wahoo Bar will host an elegant beachfront evening inspired by the serenity of the coast, pairing curated tropical cocktails with breathtaking sunset views and laid-back sophistication. The final experience will take place at JW Garden, where a “Garden to Glass” concept celebrates locally grown ingredients such as basil, lemongrass, and pandan, highlighting sustainability and creating an immersive journey.
“We are thrilled to welcome Navjot Singh to JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort for this exclusive guest bartender series,” said Srikanth Devarapalli, General Manager. “His expertise, creativity, and dedication to craft reflect our commitment to offering guests immersive moments that are aligned with our philosophy of contemporary luxury.”
Each cocktail hour has been carefully designed to reflect the spirit of the island through a contemporary lens, blending tropical influences with modern techniques and storytelling. Through this collaboration, JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort continues to elevate its culinary and beverage programming, offering guests meaningful and memorable experiences rooted in connection, discovery, and craftsmanship.
Learn more about JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort here.
Drink
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef marks World Cocktail Day with sustainable cocktail experiences
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, part of the Privé collection within the House of Siyam, marks World Cocktail Day with a transformative celebration of Green Mixology blending creativity with a deep-rooted commitment to environmental stewardship with additional engaging activities.
The resort’s beverage philosophy centres on a zero-waste approach, where every ingredient is utilised to its full potential. Guests are welcomes to observe the sophisticated discipline of the bar team as they transform overlooked elements into artisanal accents, such as dehydrating organic citrus peels in-house to create fragrant, sustainable garnishes. By replacing industrial imports with these handcrafted touches, the sanctuary ensures that every drink remains an authentic reflection of its iridescent surroundings. Guests can join the expert bar team for immersive mixology lessons to master these sustainable creations firsthand.

In addition to traditional favourites, these liquid creations highlight a dedicated Island-to-Table ethos, incorporating seasonal greens and herbs harvested directly from the resort’s flourishing gardens. The celebration was further elevated by a spectacular Flair Bartending Show, showcasing technical precision and artistry in motion, choreographed to the energy of the island.

Each curated experience at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef invites guests toast to a future of mindful indulgence, where the luxury of the moment is perfectly balanced with the preservation of the surrounding environment.
Drink
W Maldives unveils The Wavemaker Edit with global talent collaborations
W Maldives has launched The Wavemaker Edit, a new ongoing series of curated collaborations with international talent, aimed at introducing a range of guest experiences across mixology, wellness, cuisine and music.
The series is designed as a rotating programme, with each edition bringing a different creative perspective to the resort. According to W Maldives, the initiative is intended to create a continuing calendar of experiences that combine social, cultural and wellness-led elements.
The first edition of The Wavemaker Edit will run from 3 to 14 June 2026 and will feature two themed chapters, titled Island Alchemy and The Restore Ritual.
Island Alchemy will focus on mixology. On 3 June, Kwok will lead a guest shift at SIP, presenting three cocktails that explore contrast and balance, including a bespoke creation inspired by the Maldives. The collaboration will continue on 6 June at WET Deck, where a poolside day party will feature a curated cocktail menu.
The second chapter, The Restore Ritual, will centre on wellness and movement in recognition of Global Wellness Day. Led by Mumbai-based yoga and movement educator Samiksha Shetty, the programme will include sessions focused on breathwork, mindfulness and alignment-based practice.
The wellness programme will include Sunset Yoga sessions at FIRE Beach on 12 and 14 June, as well as a morning meditation session at AWAY Spa on 13 June. The main event within this chapter will take place on 13 June, when guests will be able to join a Sunset Yoga session aboard the Horizon Yacht. This bookable experience will also include healthy refreshments and a 60-minute massage at AWAY Spa.
W Maldives said future editions of The Wavemaker Edit will expand into culinary, music and art-led experiences under a number of themed series, including Flavors Unscripted, Sound Wave and Make A Scene.
Commenting on the launch, General Manager Amila Handunwala said the initiative reflects the resort’s approach to continuously evolving the guest experience through collaborations with international talent.
W Maldives is positioning the series as part of its broader effort to offer more structured and experience-led programming for guests. In addition, the resort is promoting its Original Wavemaker package, which includes seaplane transfers and a half-board meal plan for two adults with a minimum stay of four nights.
-
News1 week agoSirru Fen Fushi introduces immersive summer programme inspired by the ocean
-
News4 days agoJW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa launches mindfulness and wellness experiences for Global Wellness Day
-
Culture1 week agoMadifushi Private Island brings Maldivian Eid traditions to life with island-wide celebration
-
Cooking1 week agoInside Pâtissier Karim Bourgi’s Eid pastry residency at JOALI Maldives
-
News1 week agoMandara Spa brings ELEMIS skincare expertise to Maldives wellness experiences
-
News6 days agoBarceló Nasandhura unveils Wellness by Mandara membership programme
-
Awards7 days agoHideaway Beach Resort secures six major resort nominations and TTM sports award recognition
-
Action7 days agoEri Maldives marks global marine awareness days with immersive ocean experiences


