News
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands Welcomes New Executive Chef Leonardo Valls
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is thrilled to welcome its new Executive Chef, Leonardo Valls. Bringing 20+ years of international experience and an eye for gastronomic innovation, Valls is set to elevate the resort’s culinary experiences with his creativity and craftsmanship.
Valls’ journey in the kitchen started in his native Chile, where he joined chef Tomás Olivera in 2003 at The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago, the brand’s first property in South America. During his five years there, Valls helped Olivera and the hotel’s Adra restaurant earn numerous accolades and awards, laying the groundwork for his next adventure.
In 2008, Valls crossed the globe to join another Ritz-Carlton property, the Hotel Arts Barcelona, where he spent more than a decade as part of a highly celebrated team, led by acclaimed chef Paco Pérez. During his tenure, he helped the hotel’s Enoteca restaurant earn its first and second Michelin stars (2010 and 2013) and was named Executive Sous Chef of the hotel’s culinary division in 2016, overseeing operations for five restaurants, a central kitchen, and major international events including the Mobile World Congress.
In early 2020, Valls was set to make another international move, this time as Executive Sous Chef of The Ritz-Carlton, Naples in Florida, but the pandemic led to a change in plans, prompting his return to Santiago. In 2021, opportunity knocked again with the entry of the legendary brand into the Maldives and Valls joined The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands as Executive Sous Chef.
After a year at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, Valls found his homeland calling once again. Armed with vast knowledge of the luxury culinary concept, he took his expertise to the AC Hotel by Marriott Santiago Costanera Center where, as Executive Chef, he infused his style with Spanish and other European influences.
Renato De Oliveira, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands comments, “We’re thrilled to have Valls back in the Maldives, this time as our Executive Chef. His appointment is the start of a new chapter in an already illustrious career and an opportunity for guests to experience the world through Valls’ unique culinary perspective.”
News
‘The Curse of the Vigani’ takes over Oaga Art Resort this Halloween
On October 31, Oaga ArtResort invites guests on a Dhathuru to the island of Maaranfushi, where a day of beachside BBQ, traditional Maldivian picnic fare, live music and games slowly gives way to something much darker.
As sundown approaches, Dhon Hassanube makes his first appearance at Oaga, introducing guests to the story of the Vigani, a mysterious demon once bound to Maaranfushi to protect the islands of the Maldives from its curse. But with the Vigani said to have returned, Hassanube has some explaining to do.

The story will unfold across the island, with new characters and mysterious entities revealed along the way. Guests are guided through an island tour, meeting those caught within the curse and uncovering fragments of its story as they go. What begins as a Dhathuru soon becomes a Cursed trick or treating Island Tour, leading to unexpected encounters, storytelling and a Halloween special dinner at Kaa Kada.

The soundtrack to the story comes courtesy of Project Groove, bringing live music to the Dhathuru, while Amney and Faudi take the stage at Kaa Kada for an evening of live storytelling and music. The final chapter unfolds at Raa Baa, where Suvāsthi’s Unethical Projection brings the tale of the Vigani to life before Cursed Groove takes over for a night of Halloween revelry.

For families and younger guests, Fiyoh Kids Club has its own little Dhathuru of Halloween fun, with trick or treat basket decorating, costume making, games and playful activities for young explorersto create their own chapter of the story.
From the first clues at Maaranfushi to the final chapter at Raa Baa, this Halloween invites guests to become part of a story that unfolds around them. Come curious, follow the clues and keep an eye out for who, or what, you might meet along the way.
The Curse of the Vigani awaits at Oaga Art Resort this Halloween.
News
Fushifaru Maldives unveils five-day celebration for ninth anniversary
Nine divine years of this exquisite island paradise in Lhaviyani Atoll… Fushifaru Maldives gears up to celebrate its ninth anniversary this October with a special programme of experiences taking place from 20 to 24 October 2026, culminating in the resort’s official anniversary celebration on 24 October.
Over the past nine years, Fushifaru has established itself as an award-winning boutique resort in The Maldives known for its intimate barefoot island atmosphere, personalised service, rich Maldivian character and memorable guest experiences.
To mark the occasion, the resort has created a programme designed to bring guests, team members and the island community together in true #FeelingFantastic spirit. Celebrations will begin with Bodukakka–Guest Chef Challenge, inviting guests to team up with Fushifaru’s culinary team for a friendly cooking competition inspired by local flavours. Guests can also take part in a SUP Race around the island, with the winner receiving a romantic sandbank dinner for two.
Guests will also witness Fushifaru’s connection to the natural environment through Coral Planting and Guided Snorkelling, offering guests the opportunity to contribute to marine conservation while exploring the island’s underwater world.
The celebrations will culminate on 24 October with Fushifaru’s official 9th Anniversary Celebration, bringing together guests and the Fushifaru team for an evening dedicated to nine years of memories, friendships and exceptional experiences. The milestone reflects Fushifaru’s continued focus on creating meaningful and authentic Maldivian experiences while building lasting relationships with guests from around the world.
For Fushifaru sales enquiries and bookings, please contact reservations@fushifaru.com or visit www.fushifaru.com.
News
Meyyafushi celebrates first anniversary with three days of island experiences
Meyyafushi will celebrate its first anniversary from 1 to 3 November 2026 with a three-day programme of wellness, gastronomy, entertainment, culture and meaningful island experiences.
The anniversary marks an important milestone for the five-star Premium All-Inclusive resort, which has spent its first year welcoming guests to experience its distinctive combination of contemporary luxury, immersive dining, recreation and connection. To celebrate, Meyyafushi has curated a programme showcasing some of the resort’s most memorable experiences.
The festivities will begin with a serene Sunrise Floating Sound Bath at the Sky Lounge, offering guests a peaceful start to the celebrations, a Golden Cocktail Hour and Gala Dinner await in the evening, followed by a vibrant Glow in the Dark Grand Party.
The second day will focus on both sustainability and gastronomy. Guests will be invited to join a Coral Planting Journey, supporting the resort’s marine conservation efforts and pillar of kindness #KindnesstotheEnvironment, followed by an exclusive four-course Dinner with Chef Wout Bru, a renowned Belgian Michelin-starred chef.
On the final day, guests can enjoy a refined Wine & Charcuterie Tasting Experience at overwater Wine Cellar Raa, before the celebrations conclude with a Cultural Show and Bonfire, bringing together music, tradition and the relaxed spirit of island life.
Meyyafushi’s first anniversary represents not only a celebration of its opening year, but also the beginning of a longer journey focused on creating meaningful connections between guests, people and the natural beauty of the Maldives.
For Meyyafushi sales enquiries and bookings, please contact reservations@meyyafushi.com or visit www.meyyafushi.com.
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