News
Green Globe Recertification for VARU by Atmosphere
VARU by Atmosphere has secured the prestigious Green Globe Recertification for sustainable resort operations, following a rigorous audit encompassing over 44 mandatory core criteria. Located in the North-West edge of Malé Atoll in the Maldives, the 5-star resort offers a truly Maldivian experience by incorporating aspects of local traditions and cultures, structural design – fused together with bursts of chic tropical vibes.
Green Globe recognises organisations that demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainable management, social responsibility, cultural heritage, economic stability and environmental conservation. Regarding this latest certification, Mei P Pun the General Manager of VARU by Atmosphere says, “Sustainability is at the core of our philosophy ‘Joy of Giving,’ and we believe in genuine, impactful changes. The goal is to create delightful guests experiences, while remaining respectful towards the local environment and community. For example, as part of biodiversity conservation, we are working towards building a coral garden. A frame of corals has been successfully tested, and the program will be launched this year”.
Sustainability is an essential part of the long-term business growth at Atmosphere Core, the company that manages VARU by Atmosphere. There is continuous effort towards driving CORE IMPACT — across Communities, Operations, Resources and Environment. Elaborating on this approach, Mei adds, “We are progressively integrating KPIs for sustainability into our performance management planning. While goal setting is important, I also believe in making the initiatives educational, fun and purposeful for both guests and colleagues. We hope that our efforts can drive real change and become tomorrow’s standard”.
As a part of the Atmosphere Colleague Development Program (ACDP), the Learning & Development team identifies, develops and encourages potential high performers. Following dedicated mentorship, the resort recently celebrated the graduation of four colleagues through the program. This achievement proves the efficacy of ACDP in sculpting hospitality leaders.
Community initiatives by the resort team reflect a genuine desire to make meaningful contributions to society. A recent initiative is the ‘Give Back Day.’ As a part of this program, the VARU team partnered with Fivathi Orphanage to organise a special Iftar event for 90 children. Similarly, the team recently organised a trip to nearby K. Huraa island to promote hospitality opportunities in for Maldivian youth, fostering economic empowerment and a sense of belonging within the community. During the pandemic, VARU by Atmosphere stepped up to support local communities by providing essential supplies to the Health Center. Contributions included face masks, new bed sheets, towels, and testing kits that served as a lifeline.
The resort embraces its responsibility to tread lightly upon the Earth by minimising operational impact on the island ecosystem. From energy-saving measures to waste reduction strategies, every aspect of operations aligns with environmental conservation goals. Noteworthy initiatives include 99% energy-efficient LED lighting, renewable solar energy infrastructure, paperless check in, island kitchen garden and a water bottling plant to eliminate plastic waste. By botting water in-house, the resort eliminates the use of more than 100,000 plastic bottles a year. There is also a focus on reducing waste generation, and recycling in partnership with leading recycling companies in the Maldives.
Water use is also carefully audited. Guests are encouraged to participate in the Towel and Linen Reuse Programme, wherein they can opt for a change of sheets and towels every third day to save water. A wastewater treatment centre ensures that grey water is used for irrigation and gardening, thus saving a considerable amount of portable water.
The resort also prioritises centralised sourcing while favouring local supplies, such as sourcing fish directly from local fishermen, and importing specialty items only. Furthermore, the team actively engages in reef and island cleaning activities, underscoring its commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the Maldives for generations to come.
News
Meyyafushi Maldives opens with focus on design-led all-inclusive experiences
Meyyafushi Maldives, a brand-new five-star Premium All-Inclusive Resort, on a natural island, surrounded by world-class dive sites in Lhaviyani Atoll opened its doors on 1st November 2025. It is an all-encompassing, eco-conscious haven, designed to foster connections within and beyond.
Only a 35-minute scenic seaplane journey from the Velana International Airport, Meyyafushi boasts 94 Luxury Villas and Suites with Private Pool. It is a place where luxury combines the tranquility of seclusion with the thrill of adventure, offering an unparalleled and diverse experiences for all ages, such as an Underwater Dining Restaurant – Bubble, an Overwater Padel Tennis Court, a Mini-Bowling Lane and an adults-only Sky Bar & Sunken Lounge crowned by the rooftop glass-bottom infinity pool.

Complementing these unique experiences is the overwater Veyoge Spa, an immersive wellness sanctuary offering aerial yoga, body treatments and restorative rituals inspired by Maldivian healing traditions, designed to balance relaxation with sensory escape. Meyyafushi is also home to a 24-hour overwater fitness centre, a floodlit tennis court and multipurpose sports court, and a fully equipped dive and water-sports centre – ensuring that every stay balances indulgence, movement, and adventure.

Dining at Meyyafushi is a journey across flavours and atmospheres, with a diverse collection of restaurants and bars crafted for every mood and moment. Guests begin their day at Fili, the all-day dining restaurant, with global cuisine through a generous buffet-style breakfast, while Thaana presents refined Mediterranean dining and Alif showcases contemporary Asian flavours. Hatharu Dhan – meaning “24 hours” in Dhivehi – is the island’s jungle spot serving expertly brewed coffee, iced lattes and light bites in a relaxed setting.

For immersive culinary theatre, Sukun delivers an interactive Teppanyaki experience, and Bubble pairs exclusive underwater dining experience with refined gastronomy. Wine enthusiasts can retreat to Raa, an intimate cellar with curated selections, while evenings unfold across the island’s vibrant social venues – from handcrafted cocktails at Baa, the main bar and gathering hub, to sunset drinks at Raagu, and the adults-only Sky Bar & Sunken Lounge, a rooftop sanctuary crowned by a glass-bottom infinity pool. For ultimate convenience, in-villa dining is also available, allowing guests to enjoy exceptional cuisine in the privacy of their own villa.

Distinctive design is woven through every corner of the island. From sculptural restaurant architecture to statement bar concepts and bespoke interior detailing, Meyyafushi stands out aesthetically as one of the Maldives’ most visually unique resorts. Every space has been intentionally created to evoke emotion – not only to be lived in, but to be admired. Throughout the resort, materials have been ethically sourced with a conscious focus on sustainability, reinforcing Meyyafushi’s commitment to responsible design without compromising on luxury.
Each villa, ranging from 185 square metres to 610 square metres, has been thoughtfully crafted to embody understated elegance: soaring ceilings, warm natural textures, golden accents, and carefully curated interiors that balance comfort with architectural beauty. Generous layouts and seamless indoor-outdoor living create spaces that feel both grand and deeply private. Personalised butler service accompanies every villa, delivering intuitive, discreet attention that elevates each stay.

“Meyyafushi was designed to offer experiences guests simply cannot find elsewhere in the Maldives,” says Ahmed Siaar, Cluster General Manager. “Every element – from architecture to facilities – has been crafted to feel distinctive, luxurious, and visually unforgettable, while maintaining the warmth and excellent service our guests associate with our brand.”
Meyyafushi is the sister property to the award-winning Fushifaru Maldives, an established name in boutique island hospitality. Built upon the same operational excellence and guest-focused philosophy that has shaped Fushifaru’s international reputation, Meyyafushi carries forward a proven legacy while introducing a fresh, design-led identity. Together, the two resorts represent an experienced Maldivian hospitality company committed to innovation, quality, and memorable guest journeys.

While design and luxury define the guest experience, Meyyafushi continues to operate under the BeKind values that guide its foundation – reflected in eco-conscious practices, community partnerships, and thoughtful hospitality. These principles remain embedded in daily operations, quietly supporting an experience where indulgence and responsibility coexist naturally.

Meyyafushi Maldives is now open and welcoming bookings. For more information, please contact reservations@meyyafushi.com or visit www.meyyafushi.com.
Cooking
Women at heart of kitchen: Milaidhoo Maldives marks International Women’s Day through gastronomy
At Milaidhoo Maldives, International Women’s Day is observed as more than a calendar occasion; it is recognised as a meaningful celebration of the women whose talent and dedication shape the character of the resort’s intimate island experience.
This year, Milaidhoo highlights not only the women across its wider team, but also the five female chefs who play an integral role within its kitchen brigade. Culinary artistry remains central to the Milaidhoo experience, reflecting both heritage and creativity. Across the resort’s collection of dining venues, from island-inspired fine dining to relaxed beachfront cuisine, food is presented as a narrative of place and people. Menus are conceived as inspiration rather than prescription, with chefs tailoring each dish and dining moment to the individual tastes and curiosities of guests.
On 8 March from 19.00, the resort’s female culinary team will take over the open kitchen at Shoreline Grill, hosting a specially curated International Women’s Day dinner. Designed and executed by five chefs, the evening brings together flavours drawn from their individual traditions and culinary perspectives. More than a dining event, the experience is intended as a moment of connection and shared celebration, reflecting the intimate gastronomic gatherings for which Milaidhoo is known.
International Women’s Day Menu (Available at Shoreline Grill – Sunday 8 March from 19.00):
- Sate Lilit: Balinese seafood satay, gently spiced and grilled over charcoal, served with warm peanut sauce – Chef Bintang, Indonesia
- Pumpkin & Coconut Velouté: Roasted pumpkin soup with toasted pumpkin seeds, curry leaf oil and crisp garlic croutons – Chef Saaha, Maldives
- Curry-Poached Maldivian Coral Lobster: Locally sourced lobster with drumstick mashuni and coconut–passionfruit dressing – Chef Michelle, Maldives
- Thai A5 Wagyu Striploin: A5 Wagyu with confit lotus root, green papaya salad and Thai coconut red curry reduction – Chef Prew, Thailand
- Baobab & Chocolate Harmony: Baobab mousse, dark chocolate crémeux, peanut crumble, caramelised pineapple and mango gel – Chef Yemuria, Zimbabwe
Each dish reflects a personal culinary story, drawing inspiration from the charcoal grills of Indonesia and the spice markets of Thailand to the flavours of Zimbabwe and the rich culinary heritage of the Maldives. Together, the menu celebrates diversity and the shared pleasure of dining.
At Milaidhoo, meaningful luxury is defined through connection to place, tradition and people. This International Women’s Day, guests are invited to mark the occasion through an evening of exceptional gastronomy that honours the women at the heart of the Milaidhoo experience.
For reservations or further details on Milaidhoo’s culinary offerings, guests may visit the resort’s Culinary Experiences page or contact the reservations team at welcome@milaidhoo.com.
Family
Easter goes playful at The Standard, Maldives with week-long Angry Birds celebration
This April, The Standard, Maldives is redefining the traditional Easter holiday with a bold, high-energy island takeover inspired by the playful world of Angry Birds. Taking place from 1 to 7 April, the week-long celebration transforms the resort into a vibrant playground, blending pop culture, family-friendly activities and island indulgence against the turquoise backdrop of the Raa Atoll.
The programme places families at the heart of the festivities, with a variety of interactive experiences designed for guests of all ages. Children and parents alike can take part in “Birds vs. Pigs” puzzle challenges, test their skills at Slingshot Splash, and enjoy creative sessions such as Angry Birds-themed egg painting and chocolate truffle making. Highlights for younger guests include a Bunny Meet and Greet, an island-wide Easter Egg Hunt, and a lively pool party that brings a playful twist to the holiday celebrations.
For guests seeking a more relaxed pace, the resort’s spa offers a curated wellness programme throughout the week. Experiences include Aerial Sound Healing, Chakra Balancing and Therapeutic Yoga, alongside a Family Hammam designed to provide restorative downtime after a day of island activities.
As evening falls, the resort’s social energy comes to life with a dynamic line-up of entertainment. Guests can enjoy LED and fire shows, Full Moon beach parties and sunset cruises, while those with a competitive streak are invited to join Easter-themed music quizzes and bingo nights.
Dining is a central part of the Easter experience, with a diverse culinary programme curated for the occasion. In addition to the signature Easter Brunch, the resort hosts beachside barbecues, healthy food masterclasses and the “Happy Bunnies” Golden Hour, featuring crafted cocktails by the sea. For more intimate moments, private movie nights under the stars and exclusive beachfront dinners are also available.
To ensure a seamless holiday experience, guests may opt for the resort’s Premium All-Inclusive Package, offering access to the full range of activities, dining and beverages throughout the week. With its energetic programming and playful spirit, The Standard, Maldives delivers an Easter celebration that combines sun, sand and entertainment into a distinctive island escape.
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