News
W Maldives Welcomes It’s New Culinary Maestro: Executive Sous Chef Federico Belluco
Situated on the heart-shaped Fesdu Island and surrounded by one of the best house reefs in the country, the luxury playground W Maldives, is thrilled to announce the appointment of their new culinary maestro, Executive Sous Chef Federico Belluco. Bringing a dash of panache and a pinch of innovation, the new Executive Sous Chef is set to whisk guests away on a delectable journey, elevating the resort’s dining experience to new, tantalizing heights.
An Italian-born culinary maestro, Chef Federico has spent his entire career life honing his skills and experiences across Europe, Australia and Middle East. With an impressive culinary background, he has orchestrated culinary masterpieces in a number of Michelin-starred restaurants and five-star hotels across Italy, Spain, Germany and Middle East. Prior to gracing the Maldivian shores, Chef Federico lent his culinary prowess to the five-star Hilton The Pearl Hotel and Residences in Qatar, Doha.
In his new role as Executive Sous Chef at W Maldives, he is set to lead the kitchen brigade, curating a symphony of flavors not only complement the Maldivian beauty but also introduces a touch of European finesse. Guests can expect a menu that transcends borders, showcasing a culinary journey that spans continents.
“I am beyond thrilled to join the culinary stage and bringing my signature flavors that I have refined for the past years to W Maldives. I am determined to work together with the diverse talents and create a culinary symphony that resonates with the vibrant spirit of this luxury playground,” said Chef Federico.
In describing his approach to culinary artistry, he continued, “With every plate and dishes, I aim to tell a story, evoke emotions and take guests on a journey. I believe in crafting experiences that linger in the memory long after the last bite.” He also added, “I fell in love with the Maldives from the moment I arrived. The beauty of these islands inspires me and I am eager to blend the richness of the traditional European techniques with the freshness of local Maldivian ingredients. I am also excited to show what the evolution of both W Hotels brand and W Maldives would taste like.”
In a world where dining is an experience, Executive Sous Chef Federico Belluco promises a culinary spectacle that not only satisfies but leaves a lasting impression. Get ready for a menu that reads like a culinary novel, with chapters of delicious surprises and witty flavors that dance on the palate.
Meditation
Journey to restorative wellness: Amilla Maldives hosts renowned visiting practitioners
Amilla Maldives welcomes guests to experience the expertise of three Visiting Practitioners, each offering personalised sessions to restore balance, nurture presence, and support holistic wellbeing amid the island’s tranquil surroundings.
Until 7 December 2025, Kattia Mendoza, creator of Unmasking Arts™ and KI·OM® Bodywork, offers somatic movement, breath coaching, Osteo-Thai bodywork, and conscious communication. Private sessions like KI·OM® Bodywork, Nervous System Release, and Osteo-Thai Massage help release tension and restore mobility, while group and complimentary classes, including Somatic Breath Meditation and the Unmasking Arts™ Circle, foster emotional clarity and mindful connection.
From 10 December 2025 to 20 January 2026, Jang Kanlayanee brings over 25 years of expertise in Thai, Ayurvedic, and Western wellness practices. Treatments such as Chi Nei Tsang, Body Alignment Massage, Face and Neck Therapy, Reiki, and sound healing restore energy and harmony. Guests can also join group or complimentary sessions including Tai Chi, Sound Bath, Chakra Energy Assessment, and private yoga for holistic wellbeing.
From 20 December 2025 to 20 January 2026, Dr Shreejit Ghadigaonkar, an Ayurveda doctor and yoga expert from India, offers personalised consultations and a range of traditional therapies to restore balance and vitality. Complementary wellness sessions provide guidance on managing stress, improving sleep, and aligning lifestyle habits with the body’s natural rhythms, leaving guests feeling refreshed and renewed.
During their residencies, Kattia, Jang, and Dr Shreejit invite guests to slow down, reconnect, and explore restorative experiences that leave body, mind, and spirit refreshed within the calm rhythm of island life.
Awards
Multiple wins for JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll at World Luxury Travel Awards 2025
JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort is celebrating its success at the 2025 World Luxury Travel Awards, where it has been honoured with multiple titles, including Luxury Beach Resort and Luxury Villa Resort. These accolades reaffirm its position as one of the world’s distinguished luxury destinations and highlight the resort’s dedication to exceptional service, innovative design and memorable guest experiences in the heart of the Indian Ocean.
Nestled in the Emboodhu Finolhu lagoon, just 15 minutes from Velana International Airport, the five-star resort received further prestigious recognition across several categories, strengthening its reputation as a premier luxury destination in the region. The resort was named Best Luxury New Resort in the Indian Ocean, Best Luxury Family Beach Resort in the Maldives, and Best Luxury Island Resort as a Global Winner.
Complementing the resort’s success, Spa by JW also achieved international acclaim, receiving three awards that underscore its harmonious blend of tranquillity, contemporary innovation and exceptional design. The spa was recognised for Best Interior Design in the Indian Ocean, Best Luxury Oceanview Spa in the Indian Ocean, and Best Luxury Overwater Spa as a Global Winner.
“These honours reflect our team’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and personalised service to every guest,” said Srikanth Devarapalli, General Manager of JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort. “At our resort, modern luxury is complemented by authentic Maldivian warmth, where every detail — from design to service — is thoughtfully crafted to create memorable moments and meaningful connections.”
JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort offers a serene island escape with expansive overwater and beach pool villas, world-class dining and the award-winning Spa by JW, where guests are invited to unwind in complete serenity while enjoying panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
Established in 2006, the World Luxury Travel Awards celebrate excellence across all sectors of the luxury travel and tourism industry. The recognition of JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort among this year’s global winners further reinforces its status as one of the world’s leaders in luxury hospitality.
Drink
Midweek sundowners: Canareef Resort Maldives’ ‘Sunset Cocktails’ light up Wednesday evenings
Every Wednesday evening, Canareef Resort Maldives comes alive with its “Sunset Cocktails” experience – a relaxed blend of refreshment, music and ocean views that invites all guests to savour the island’s golden hour.
Guests are welcomed to an elegant beachfront setting where the sky meets the sea in a vivid display of colour. Complimentary cocktails and snacks are served, thoughtfully prepared to delight the senses and complement the tranquil surroundings. Whether unwinding after a day of activities or simply enjoying the island ambience, the atmosphere is one of easy conversation and shared enjoyment.
Adding to the charm of the evening, the event features the vibrant energy of a live DJ set or live music, providing a soundtrack that moves from mellow tunes to upbeat rhythms as night falls. Open to all in-house guests, “Sunset Cocktails” is designed as a social gathering where guests can meet, connect and create memorable moments together.
As with all tropical occasions, the event is subject to weather conditions, making each edition a unique experience. On clear evenings, “Sunset Cocktails” often becomes a highlight of the week, inviting guests to raise a glass and toast to island life by the sea.
Canareef Resort Maldives invites guests to sip, savour and celebrate the island’s signature sunset – the perfect midweek pause against the backdrop of Addu Atoll’s serene horizon.
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