News
Jawakara Islands Maldives unveils dedicated ‘Buddymoons’ activities
The concept of buddymoons, where couples extend invitations to friends to join them on their honeymoon, has experienced a notable surge in popularity. Recent data from a survey conducted by wedding hub Hitched indicates that approximately one-fifth of couples in the midst of wedding planning are open to the idea of hosting a buddymoon.
Embracing this emerging trend, Jawakara Islands Maldives, the newest addition to Crown and Champa Resorts’ portfolio, introduces a bespoke program designed for buddymoon experiences. Situated in the picturesque Lhaviyani Atoll, this luxury resort spans two interconnected islands connected by an oversea walkway. The unveiling of this innovative itinerary marks Jawakara’s commitment to providing personalized buddymoon experiences, tailored to the individual preferences of each guest.
The materialization of buddymoons may be attributed in part to broader shifts in travel trends. Research conducted by Globetrender and Cazenove+Loyd suggests a growing demand for elaborate and extended special-occasion trips, particularly for milestone celebrations. Additionally, Black Tomato reports that group travel constitutes a significant 30% of all bookings.
These findings underscore Jawakara’s position as a trailblazer in group travel to the Maldives, offering a resort experience specifically crafted for group and multigenerational adventures.
Just some of the activities that can be enjoyed on a buddymoon at Jawakara include:
- Padel Tennis: on the resort’s state-of-the-art outdoor courts
- Golf: on the largest golf course in the Maldives with 9 scenic holes
- Spa relaxation: Guests can take advantage of Ayurvedically-inspired treatments at the resort’s ocean and garden Sulha Spas that harness Asian massage techniques alongside organic products
- Diving and Snorkelling: Jawakara is home to diverse marine life such as Manta Rays, turtles, sharks, and tropical fish
- Casting Fishing: prized catches can be prepared by the resort’s chefs for a unique dining experience
- Yoga: Jawakara’s yoga retreat sits above the crystalline lagoon for a truly restorative experience.
Jawakara also offers an array of culinary delights, featuring two exquisite à la carte restaurants: Molo, specializing in Mediterranean cuisine, and UMI, presenting Asian -Pacific flavors. Additionally, Saima and other buffet restaurants provide indoor and al fresco dining options, offering all-day buffets in an open-air dining room with live cooking stations. Guests can also enjoy a selection of bars, each offering a unique ambiance and beverage selection to complement their dining experiences.
Maurice Van Den Bosch, General Manager of Jawakara Islands Maldives, comments: “The launch of buddymoons experiences at Jawakara is testament to the resort’s commitment to remaining in-tune with evolving travel trends. Jawakara is designed for both smaller and larger group holidays alike and is the ideal destination for buddymoons set against the luxurious backdrop of the Maldives.”
Jawakara Islands Maldives offers an adventurous escape where multigenerational travelers can come together to collaborate, indulge, and rejuvenate. Boasting 290 villas, this five-star retreat is conveniently located just 35 minutes away by seaplane from Malé International Airport. The resort comprises two distinct islands – Mabin and Dheru – interconnected by an oversea walkway, providing guests
Meditation
Imron Zulfikar returns to Niva Kuramathi Maldives for festive wellness residency
As the festive season casts its gentle glow, Niva Kuramathi Maldives is set to welcome the return of acclaimed holistic wellness practitioner Imron Zulfikar. From 16 December 2026 to 2 January 2027, guests are invited to embark on a transformative journey, immersing themselves in bespoke wellness journeys designed to restore harmony and vitality under the guidance of a true master of holistic health.
During his residency, Imron will offer a curated selection of signature therapies designed for lasting wellbeing. Experience the Functional Alignment Massage, a 90-minute restorative bodywork session that combines therapeutic massage, Thai stretching, and body mechanics to improve posture, release chronic tension, and enhance mobility. For pain relief, the Radiant Heat Deep Release offers an advanced treatment using deep tissue massage and infrared heat to soften tension, improve circulation, and accelerate recovery, with acupuncture available to enhance results.
Restore your inner harmony with the Chakra Balance Treatment, a 90-minute journey that begins with a mental wellness consultation and unfolds with crystal healing, guided meditation, and a soothing massage to align body, mind, and spirit. For a focused and powerful renewal, the 45-minute Yoga Intestinal Detox Therapy offers a guided practice of specific yoga movements and mineral-balanced hydration to support health.
Facial Rejuvenation
Indulge in rejuvenating facial treatments designed to illuminate your skin from within. The Accu Glow Facial is a refined 90-minute treatment using facial acupuncture and a bespoke skincare ritual to stimulate collagen, leaving skin firmer, brighter, and with a youthful glow. The Radiant Crystal Lift Facial provides a gentle 60-minute experience, combining infrared light with a Rose Quartz massage to enhance lymphatic drainage, soften tension, and promote a luminous, healthy glow.
Private Movement Classes:
Imron will also lead private sessions in Therapeutic Yoga, Body Alignment, Mat Pilates, and Personal Training. Guests are also invited to join a series of rejuvenating group classes designed to elevate vitality and inspire a sense of renewal.
Imron brings over a decade of expertise as a wellness lifestyle coach and holistic fitness specialist. His integrative methods, encompassing acupuncture, tension release, yoga, and Pilates, offer a comprehensive approach to emotional wellbeing and mobility. His intuitive healing and unwavering professionalism have earned the trust of high-profile clients worldwide, including Serena Williams, Emma Watson, and Richard Branson, who described him as having “golden hands.”
For more inspiration, please visit www.nivakuramathi.com.
Action
Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives develops next generation of dive instructors
Against the backdrop of the Maldives’ world-renowned marine environment, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives is nurturing the next generation of dive professionals as the exclusive Best Dives Maldives resort authorised to deliver the PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC).
Bringing together Divemasters from Best Dives Maldives operations across the Maldives, the two-week programme reflects the resort’s growing role as the group’s dedicated training hub, supporting the development of the next generation of PADI Open Water Scuba Instructors while reinforcing its commitment to excellence in diving education.
Designed exclusively for certified Divemasters, the IDC combines comprehensive classroom learning with practical teaching workshops, confined and open water assessments, Emergency First Response Instructor Development, and Scuba Dive Instructor training. Participants entered the programme having already fulfilled PADI’s rigorous prerequisites, including logged dives, professional certifications, and medical clearances, before progressing to the Instructor Examination, the final step towards becoming a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor.

Sharing his thoughts, Cluster General Manager Jorge Fernandez stated, “Our vision extends beyond delivering exceptional guest experiences. Across Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives and its neighbouring Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, we are committed to supporting the long-term growth of the Maldives’ diving industry through education, professional development, and marine stewardship. As the exclusive PADI Instructor Development Course centre within the Best Dives Maldives network, our resort plays a vital role in developing the next generation of dive professionals, strengthening industry standards, and reinforcing our commitment to advancing the Maldives as one of the world’s leading diving destinations.”
“Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives has become the dedicated home of professional instructor development within the Best Dives Maldives network,” said Shimal Mohamed, Base Leader, Best Dives Maldives at Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives. “Hosting the PADI Instructor Development Course allows us not only to develop future dive professionals, but also to maintain consistent training standards across our operations. It is a responsibility we are proud to uphold while supporting the career progression of our teams throughout the Maldives. We are equally committed to bringing more Maldivians into the diving profession, creating meaningful career pathways for local talent and helping the industry grow from within.”
With its protected lagoon, vibrant house reef, and diverse marine ecosystem, the resort offers an ideal environment for instructor development, allowing candidates to gain hands on teaching experience in conditions that closely reflect real world diving environments. Beyond delivering certification, the programme strengthens knowledge, confidence, and instructional skills, ensuring graduates are well prepared to guide and inspire future divers.
As the exclusive PADI Instructor Development Course provider within the Best Dives Maldives portfolio, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives continues to play a pivotal role in advancing professional dive education while enhancing the Maldives’ reputation as one of the world’s premier diving destinations. Alongside its instructor development programmes, the resort welcomes guests of all experience levels, from first time divers discovering the underwater world to experienced enthusiasts seeking unforgettable marine encounters.
Action
Jamie Murray to host week-long tennis residency at Finolhu Maldives
What happens when one of tennis’s most accomplished doubles players swaps the intensity of the Grand Slam circuit for barefoot island living? This October, Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort, welcomes British tennis champion Jamie Murray for an exclusive week-long residency, taking place from 23 to 27 October 2026.
A former World No. 1 in doubles, seven-time Grand Slam champion and Davis Cup winner, Murray brings more than two decades at the highest level of professional tennis to the island. Having announced his retirement from professional tennis earlier this year after a career spanning 36 years, his residency at Finolhu marks a new chapter – one where the competitive court gives way to a more relaxed setting for sharing his knowledge, passion and love of the game.
During his time at Finolhu, guests will have the opportunity to step onto the court with one of British tennis’s most successful doubles players, gaining personal insight into the game from someone who has competed, won and travelled at the very highest level.
The residency will bring together exclusive tennis sessions, informal coaching and opportunities for guests to connect with Murray away from the traditional tournament environment, creating an experience that is as much about the stories and spirit of the sport as it is about the game itself.
Murray’s career is marked by an extraordinary collection of achievements. He became the first British player to reach World No. 1 in the ATP doubles rankings in 2016, the same year he won the Australian Open and US Open men’s doubles titles alongside Bruno Soares. His seven Grand Slam victories also include mixed doubles titles at Wimbledon and the US Open, while his contribution to Great Britain’s 2015 Davis Cup triumph remains one of the defining moments of his career.
Now, the setting is altogether different.
Surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean and Finolhu’s signature two-kilometre sandbank, guests can combine time on court with the freedom of island life – from barefoot walks along the sand to long lunches, ocean adventures, sunset moments and evenings under the stars.
At Finolhu, tennis becomes another way to embrace the island’s playful spirit: competitive when you want it to be, relaxed when you don’t. With Murray’s residency taking place during the resort’s vibrant October season, guests can expect a week where world-class sporting experience meets the carefree rhythm of Maldivian island life.
The Jamie Murray Tennis Residency takes place at Finolhu from 23 to 27 October 2026.
For more information and reservations, visit finolhu.com.
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