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Harnessing Local Knowledge to Explore the Fascinating Secrets of the Distant Stars with Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villa’s SKY Gurus

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We have all, at one time or another, gazed up into the night sky and  contemplated the mysteries of the universe, but if ever you were planning to learn more about  the stars and the secrets they hold, you would be hard-pushed to find a more ideal location  than SKY at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas.  

Located in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Anantara Kihavah is not only a tropical  island paradise but also a stargazer’s dream location. The private island’s remoteness means  that it is free from light pollution, while its proximity to the equator affords spectacular views of  both the southern and northern sky.  

At SKY, Anantara Kihavah’s overwater observatory combined with a luxury cocktail bar, the  far reaches of the universe are brought into crystal clear focus as guests sip Champagne or  cocktails and gaze through one of the most powerful telescopes in the region while the resort’s  two resident SKY Gurus regale them with fascinating stories of the night sky. Harnessing their  local knowledge of the Maldivian sky to reveal the intriguing stories behind the countless stars  that make up the distant constellations, Zunnoon Ahmed, known as Zunnu, and Ali Arushal,  who goes by the name of Shalli, are Anantara Kihavah’s Resident SKY Gurus. Both natives  of Baa Atoll, Zunnu and Shalli are not only captivating storytellers, but they also each have  their own story to tell.  

Zunnoon Ahmed

Born and raised on the small island of Kudarikilu in Baa Atoll, Zunnu has always been  fascinated by the night sky. Driven by a curiosity to unravel the secrets and stories behind the  stars that fill the cloudless Maldivian skies, his fascination evolved into a passion for  astrophotography when he was just 16 years old, marking the beginning of his journey into  the enthralling world of astronomy.  

Although Zunnu pursued a career in the more conventional field of IT, currently serving as  Assistant IT Manager by day and storytelling SKY Guru by night, his passion for stargazing  only grew stronger. He collaborates with online telescope operators in his spare time,  engaging in astro imaging to capture captivating glimpses of the cosmos through remote  telescopes, while he is constantly looking for new ways to expand his knowledge. “I always  make it a habit to check online astronomy forums for the latest celestial discoveries and  engage in discussions with fellow space enthusiasts,” he explained. 

Having originally joined Anantara Kihavah in 2017 as an IT Coordinator, overseeing the hotel  network, managing hotel applications, and playing a key role in ensuring the seamless  operation of various technological aspects for a smooth guest experience, Zunnu grabbed the opportunity to develop his celestial passion by volunteering to study stargazing under the  supervision of the resort’s first SKY Guru, Ali Shameem. 

Across the next five years, Zunnu conducted research, took theory tests and participated in  stargazing demos as part of his detailed training process. “The experience of learning about  the stars was a bit challenging when I started,” he explained. “But it has become truly fantastic  now. The journey of understanding the cosmos has been both rewarding and enlightening.” 

Recalling his first stargazing session at Anantara Kihavah, Zunnu commented on how the  positive reactions of the guests turned it into a rewarding and fulfilling experience, both for him  and for his captivated audience. Sharing his passion now comes easily to the engaging Zunnu.  “We all have a natural curiosity to understand the world around us,” he explained. “And the  night sky, with its myriad stars, has always been a source of wonder and questions. Stars  often hold cultural and mythological significance in various societies. Many cultures have  created stories, myths, and legends based on constellations and individual stars, adding a  sense of mystery and importance.” 

While his own personal favourite star is Aldebaran, Zunnu is more than happy to take  advantage of Anantara Kihavah’s pristine location away from light pollution to find and share  a variety of celestial events with the resort’s guests. “We regularly witness awe-inspiring solar  eclipses, captivating lunar eclipses, mesmerising meteor showers, and enchanting planetary  conjunctions in our cosmic spectacle,” he enthused.  

Ali Arushal

A more recent addition to Anantara Kihavah’s small but elite team of SKY Gurus, Shalli is  another native of Baa Atoll, having been born and raised on the island of Kendhoo. Shalli  describes his childhood on Kendhoo as happy and enjoyable, and while his interest in the  stars began at a young age, it was not until he joined Anantara Kihavah that he delved deeper  into the field of astronomy. 

Having joined Anantara Kihavah’s transport department in 2021, Shalli is part of the resort’s  launch crew, where his main responsibilities include ensuring transport operations run  smoothly. However, his fascination with the amazing views of the Maldivian night sky resulted  in him volunteering to train as the resort’s next SKY Guru. 

During one and a half years of learning about stargazing from the resort’s first SKY Guru,  Shalli’s intensive training involved theory tests, reading assignments, and stargazing  demonstrations. Eager to expand his knowledge and complement his training, Shalli also  seeks out additional information from the internet and YouTube. 

Describing his first stargazing session with guests as stunning, Shalli quickly warmed to his  new role. As a SKY Guru, Shalli enjoys sharing his passion and imparting unknown knowledge  about the stars to others. While he names Antares as his personal favourite star, he enjoys nothing more than being able to show guests distant constellations or share such amazing  spectacles with them as a lunar eclipse, solar eclipse or meteors. 

SKY Gurus lead guests on a cosmic journey across both hemisphere’s stars and planets,  clarifying what can be seen in the sky with the naked eye and using a green laser, they point  out different constellations and explains light years and different types of galaxies. Guests are  then able to view the sky from the observatory telescope which has a viewing capacity of 30  million light years away. 

The locale gives guests an opportunity to see lunar eclipses, stars and planets invisible from  Europe or America. Sometimes, depending on climate and time of the year, you can even  catch a glimpse of Saturn with its pale-yellow rings, belts of Jupiter that vary in width, colour  and intensity from year to year and the several hundred thousand of stars that make up  Messier 13. 

SKY is the finest over water observatory in the Maldives built with a 3.8 metre revolving Ash dome and equipped with a research-grade Meade 16” LX200 telescope with a magnification  of 400x mounted on a super-giant field tripod. 

Embark on a cosmic journey at Anantara Kihavah’s SKY Observatory. For more information or to book, call +960 664 4111, visit their website or email  reservations.maldives@anantara.com. 

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NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort unveils voyage-inspired dining experience Caravela

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NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort, a newly-opened sanctuary in the UNESCO-protected Baa Atoll, has introduced Caravela, an immersive culinary journey inspired by the great maritime expeditions that shaped global gastronomy.

Blending Spanish culinary heritage with Maldivian provenance, Caravela offers a multi-sensory journey where each course unfolds as a chapter in the story of exploration, trade and cultural exchange. The concept takes its name from the caravel, the agile Portuguese vessel that enabled pioneering voyages between the 14th and 17th centuries.

Designed as an intimate, dinner-only experience for up to 12 guests, Caravela centres around a communal table, fostering connection and shared discovery. The inaugural menu, The Atlantic Voyage of 1487, traces the route of early explorers who sailed from Iberia along the African coast towards the Cape of Storms in search of a sea passage to India.

The five-course menu opens with First Light of the Atlantic, crispy King Crab fritters with ikura and lime-yuzu vinaigrette, before moving into Winds of the Cantabrian Sea, a torched Maldivian tuna loin with escabeche and subtle Moroccan spices. Crossing the Madeira Currents follows with local job fish, confit plantain purée and a prawn coral tuile. A green apple sorbet, inspired by the Wambugu Apples of western Africa, serves as a palate cleanser before the main course, Benguela Shores at Dusk: a 12-hour sous vide pork belly glazed with smoky chilli and Spanish chorizo jus. The voyage closes with Triumphant Return to Iberian Coast, an olive oil cake with port wine and blood orange gel, encased in a sugar sphere inspired by the Armillary Sphere, a symbol of Portuguese navigation.

Petit fours of caramelised torrija, coffee chocolate bonbon and South African milk tart complete the evening, alluding to the upcoming voyage that discovered the Americas.

Caravela’s narrative-driven approach will continue to evolve as future voyages launch, including The Pacific Voyage of 1492 and The Indian Ocean Voyage of 1498. Each new menu will introduce a distinct flavour map, encouraging guests to return and explore the histories that shape modern cuisine.

The concept was created under the direction of Resort Manager Melroy Fernandes, in collaboration with the resort’s culinary team, drawing on a deep appreciation for the Age of Discovery. Fernandes, a Master Sommelier, has also curated a thoughtful wine pairing experience alongside the resort’s sommelier team to complement each course.

On the launch of Caravela, Fernandes said, “NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort is designed for travellers seeking meaningful and memorable experiences. Whether exploring the natural wonders of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and nearby Hanifaru Bay or embracing the tranquillity of our island, Caravela offers a journey of a different kind, one that connects history, culture and cuisine in a truly immersive way.”

Caravela completes NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort’s diverse dining portfolio, spanning all-day dining at Jumla, signature restaurants Alifaan and Kaiyo, beverage-led experiences at Atardecer, Handhuvaru, Madumaithiri and Splash Bar, and the Adrift destination dining concept.

The Atlantic Voyage tasting menu with wine pairings is priced at USD 190++ per guest and is available by prior reservation. For more information or to book, visit the resort’s website.

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W Maldives brings fast-growing sport of padel to the island

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W Maldives has introduced the FIT Padel Court, a dynamic open-air sporting space that brings one of the world’s fastest-growingsports to the island in signature W style.

Set within the resort’s lush greenery, the FIT Padel Court is more than just a game. Designed as both a sporting arena and social hub, it welcomes beginners and seasoned players alike to rally, connect, and compete in an effortlessly vibrant setting. Open daily and availablefor private bookings, the court brings a fresh rhythm to island days, blending movement with moments that matter.

Elevating the experience further, the resort’s FIT team completed an intensive training with the Asia Pacific Padel Academy (APPA), the region’s leading institution for padel education and coach development. Designed to sharpen both technical precision and on-court strategy, the program ensures that every guest interaction is guided by knowledge, confidence, and an intuitive understanding of the game.

Led by a certified coach and national athlete, Karyn Emeralda, the training immersed the team in the fundamentals of technique, tactical play, and smart positioning, equipping them to deliver engaging, high-quality sessions tailored to every level. From first-time players discovering the sport to those looking to refine their edge, guests can now tap into beginner-friendly sessions and social matches designed to spark both skill and connection.

“Padel is more than a sport, it is a social movement, and we are excited to bring that energy to the island,” said Amila Handunwala, General Manager of W Maldives. “With the launch of the FIT Padel Court and a team trained to guide and inspire, we are creating an experience that is equal parts playful, dynamic, and elevated. It is about giving our guests new ways to move, connect and feel the pulse of the destination.”

As part of W Maldives’ ever-evolvingapproach to fitness and lifestyle, the FIT Padel Court reflects a broader commitment to experiences that are immersive, social, and distinctly of the moment. Here, every serve is set against a soundtrack of ocean waves, every match unfolds under Maldivianskies, and every guest is invited to play their way.

For those looking to extend the experience, the Original Wave maker package offers the perfect invitation to stay longer and dive deeper. With a minimum stay of four nights, the package includes seaplane transfers and a half-board meal plan for two adults, ensuring a seamless and elevated island getaway.

For more information, visit www.wmaldives.com or connect with the resort’s team at reservations.wmaldives@whotels.com.

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Grand Park Kodhipparu celebrates nine years with immersive summer campaign

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Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives marks its ninth anniversary with the launch of Summer Lagoon Living—a new seasonal campaign inspired by longer stays, meaningful connection, vibrant marine life and a slower rhythm of island living.

Designed to celebrate the soulful side of summer in the Maldives, the campaign repositions the season as a time for deeper experiences, restorative travel and immersive island living.

The celebration is intentionally timed to include World Oceans Day, as the campaign also reflects the resort’s continued commitment to ocean conservation and the protection of the house reef that has become central to the guest experience over the past nine years. Throughout the campaign, guests will also be encouraged to engage more consciously with the marine world surrounding the island, reinforcing the importance of protecting fragile reef ecosystems for future generations.

Summer Lagoon Living introduces a special anniversary stay featuring the ‘Every Third Night OnUs’offer, inviting both returning guests and first-time visitors to spend more time immersed in the lagoon lifestyle that defines the resort experience. Valid for new bookings with stays through to the end of October 2026, the offer has been intentionally designed to encourage greater flexibility for travellers seeking either shorter regional escapes or longer, more restorative island journeys.

Set just 20 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives has evolved over the past nine years into one of the Maldives’ most recognised boutique island resorts—known for its contemporary overwater villas, award-nominated spa and restaurants, vibrant house reef and thoughtful approach to modern luxury hospitality.

The anniversary season also arrives as the resort awaits the results of multiple international travel award nominations recognising its boutique resort experience, vibrant house reef, award-nominated spa and restaurants, water villa stays and evolving philosophy of Connected Island Luxury.

“Our ninth anniversary feels especially meaningful because we are not only celebrating the journey of the resort itself, but also how luxury travel has evolved over that same time,” says General Manager, Raffaele Solferino.

“I have had the privilege of being part of Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives since before the island welcomed its very first guests in 2017. Over the years, we have seen travellers increasingly seek something more intentional—experiences that create emotional value, genuine connection and a sense of wellbeing, rather than luxury defined purely by excess. Today, our vision of Connected Island Luxury reflects that evolution. It is about helping guests leave feeling better than when they arrived, while remaining deeply connected to the extraordinary natural environment surrounding the island—especially the ocean and house reef that make this destination so special.”

Throughout the Summer Lagoon Living season, guests will discover curated experiences inspired by island life at its most relaxed and immersive—from reef snorkelling and ocean adventures to sunset dining, wellness rituals, beach cinema evenings and moments designed to reconnect guests with both themselves and the natural beauty of the Maldives.

The resort’s house reef continues to play a central role within the campaign narrative, particularly as summer months in the Maldives are often associated with richer marine encounters, including turtles, reef sharks and stingrays frequently spotted close to shore and directly from many of the villas.

Flexible Island Escapes Through October 2026

“As travel patterns continue to evolve, we wanted to create an offer that provides guests with greater flexibility around how they choose to experience the Maldives,” says Director of Marketing Liz Smailes.

“The structure of the offer allows guests to extend their stay in a way that feels natural and rewarding. Because the offer can be repeated throughout the same reservation, it works equally well for both short-haul breaks and long-haul travel over six nights or more.”

As summer unfolds across the Maldives, Summer Lagoon Living positions the season not as an off-peak alternative, but as one of the most visually cinematic, emotionally restorative and naturally vibrant times to experience island life—where slower days, richer marine encounters and meaningful moments take centre stage.

Celebrate Summer in the Maldives

Designed for forward planning, Every Third Night On Us provides both immediate value and future flexibility, allowing travellers to secure more time, more experiences and a slower rhythm of island living well in advance.

For more information and bookings, please visit the resort’s website.

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