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Solar eclipses diesel at Patina Maldives

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Future-facing resort Patina Maldives, Fari Islands will mark Earth Day 2024 with the official unveiling of the latest chapter in its perpetual journey towards clean energy independence: a USD3 million solar panel installation project that will increase solar energy contribution from 15 percent to 50 percent of the island’s total energy requirement.

In partnership with the Maldives’ leading solar energy provider, Swimsol, a total of 1937kWp of additional solar panels will become operational in October this year. 1MWp of panels will be located on a land bank on the East of the island, with a further 937kWp to be installed on the rooftops of all the resort’s beach villas and F&B outlets, as well as the FLOW Spa, dive centre, Portico, kids club and back-of-house buildings. 2MWh of extra battery capacity will also be added, enabling the property to rely solely on solar energy during daylight hours.

Forward-looking Fari Islands

From its inception, the Fari Islands’ development has been guided by sustainable architecture and design. It is the largest hospitality project globally to benefit from the extensive use of offsite manufacturing technology known as ‘Mass Engineered Timber’ or ’MET’, which reduced carbon emissions by over 6,000 tons after production and transportation; in addition, all the villas were prefabricated, to ensure minimal run off into the marine ecosystem Departing from the conventional thatched roof structures prevalent in the Maldives, villas and amenities were designed with flat roofs, allowing solar panels to be easily mounted. This allows the Fari Islands to host one of the latest largest solar installations in the Maldives (>4MW). Pontiac Land continues to explore further site-specific renewable energy solutions to help achieve its net-zero goals.

Patina for Perpetuality

The flagship of the four-island Fari Islands archipelago, Patina Maldives, the inaugural resort by new lifestyle brand Patina Hotels & Resorts by the Capella Hotel Group, opened in May 2021, with a guiding principle of sustainability at its core. A hands-on, data-led approach to positively impacting people and place reflects a brand-wide commitment to the pursuit of ‘perpetuality’.

A strong emphasis is placed on children’s activities to engage and raise awareness amongst the next generation of champions for the ocean. Embodying this future-thinking approach, Patina Maldives’ pioneering children’s centre, Footprints, is a place of discovery and inspiration, engaging activities and exceptional facilities – all powered entirely by Swimsol solar panels.

To further reduce import footprints, Patina Maldives houses an organic permaculture garden, the Garden of Perpetuality, that cultivates fresh pesticide-free produce, including watermelon, sweet melon, okra, eggplant, cucumber, capsicum, pumpkin and kang kong; all food waste is turned into organic fertiliser through bio-digesters. Plant-based Roots, one of the resort’s signature restaurants, operates on the root-to-leaf principle to encourage guests to adopt a more conscious and conscientious lifestyle. Drinking water for the whole archipelago is filtered on site by Nordaq and bottled on island without the use of single-use plastic. In the rooms and at Flow spa, guests are treated to a range of sustainable amenities in refilled containers by British brand Haeckels and US-based OSEA.

Antonio Saponara, General Manager of Patina Maldives, Fari Islands, commented: “At Patina Maldives, we are continuously meticulous in our efforts to minimise the environmental impact of Fari islands and this latest development in our journey towards clean energy dependence demonstrates our commitment. We constantly monitor and evaluate our processes and seek ways to improve our operations from an environmental, social and economic aspect, supporting the protection of our natural world.”

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Sirru Fen Fushi earns multiple honours in Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards 2026

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Sirru Fen Fushi–Private Lagoon Resort, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, is celebrating a series of prestigious accolades that reaffirm its position as one of the Maldives’ leading luxury destinations and reflect its dedication to creating meaningful guest experiences.

At the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026, Sirru Fen Fushi was recognised in three highly competitive categories:

  • #1 Best Resort Pools in the Maldives
  • #5 Best Resorts for Families in the Maldives
  • #5 Most Outrageous Villas in the Maldives

These awards reflect the votes and experiences of discerning travellers across the region and celebrate the resort’s unique blend of contemporary luxury, immersive experiences and natural beauty.

Adding to this achievement, Sirru Fen Fushi has also been honoured with the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2026, a recognition awarded to properties that consistently earn outstanding guest reviews and rank among the top 10% travellers’ preferred destinations worldwide.

Nestled in the pristine waters of Shaviyani Atoll, Sirru Fen Fushi offers an extraordinary island escape defined by spacious villas, exceptional dining, family-friendly experiences and a strong commitment to sustainability. Home to one of the Maldives’ most iconic infinity pools overlooking the turquoise lagoon, the resort continues to attract travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure in a secluded setting.

“We are incredibly grateful to our guests for their trust and support, and to our dedicated team whose passion and commitment make these achievements possible,” said Abdulla Nabeel, Commercial Director. “These recognitions are especially meaningful as they reflect the experiences of the travellers we welcome to our island every day. We are honoured to receive them and remain committed to delivering exceptional hospitality and unforgettable moments.”

The awards mark another milestone in Sirru Fen Fushi’s ongoing journey of excellence, further strengthening its reputation as a destination where authentic luxury, personalised service and natural beauty come together to create truly memorable stays.

For further information and reservations, please visit the resort’s website or contact reservations@sirrufenfushi.com.

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Chef Nicolas Isnard to lead exclusive culinary residency at Meyyafushi Maldives

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Meyyafushi has announced an exclusive culinary residency with acclaimed French chef Nicolas Isnard from 20 to 26 July 2026, bringing Michelin-starred expertise and contemporary French gastronomy to the heart of the Indian Ocean.

Renowned for his innovative approach to French cuisine and his passion for celebrating exceptional ingredients, Chef Nicolas Isnard has built an international reputation through his Michelin-starred restaurants, culinary collaborations and appearances at prestigious gastronomic events around the world.

During his week-long residency, guests of Meyyafushi Maldives will have the rare opportunity to experience a series of bespoke culinary events curated by Chef Nicolas, including signature menus, dining experiences and chef-hosted evenings designed to showcase the artistry and elegance of modern French cuisine.

A highlight of the residency will be a specially curated 5-course dining experience at Bubble, Meyyafushi Maldives’ spectacular underwater restaurant, where guests will enjoy Michelin-inspired creations surrounded by the vibrant marine life of the Maldives. Additionally, another 5-course wine-pairing dinner will take place at the overwater Raa Wine Cellar, creating unforgettable moments for culinary enthusiasts and wine connoisseurs alike.

Chef Nicolas will also collaborate closely with the resort’s culinary team, sharing his expertise through professional training sessions and knowledge exchange initiatives aimed at further enhancing the guest dining experience across the island.

“We are honoured to welcome Chef Nicolas Isnard to Meyyafushi,” said Ahmed Siaar, Cluster General Manager of BeKind Hospitality Group. “His creativity, passion and commitment to culinary excellence align perfectly with our vision of delivering extraordinary experiences for our guests. This residency represents an exciting opportunity to further elevate our culinary offering and position Meyyafushi as a leading destination for gastronomic travel in the Maldives.”

Located in the pristine Lhaviyani Atoll, Meyyafushi Maldives is redefining luxury island escapes through a collection of distinctive experiences, including Bubble Underwater Restaurant, the world’s first fixed overwater padel tennis court, an overwater wine cellar, adults-only Sky Bar and Sunken Lounge, and a Premium All-Inclusive concept designed to offer guests unparalleled freedom and choice.

The Michelin-starred Chef Nicolas Isnard collaboration forms part of Meyyafushi’s ongoing commitment to bringing world-class talent and exceptional experiences to the destination, creating memorable moments that inspire connection, discovery and celebration.

Reservations for the exclusive dining experiences will be available on a limited basis and are expected to be in high demand. For bookings, please contact reservations@meyyafushi.com or visit www.meyyafushi.com.

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Kandolhu Maldives announces festive season with gourmet experiences and island traditions

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Kandolhu Maldives’ festive season programme is an invitation to experience the warmth of the holidays shaped by the rhythms of Maldivian island life. Celebrations unfold through culinary events, intimate gatherings, and moments of quiet connection from late December through the New Year.

The season begins on 20 December with a festive workshop where guests will learn to craft unique ornaments from palm leaves, each handmade piece later becoming part of the collective, joyful spirit of the island’s tree decorating ceremony. The celebrations continue with the annual tree lighting and a Christmas cocktail reception, where handcrafted cocktails and delicious canapés are shared.

Christmas Eve arrives with its own soft magic. Artisanal cocktails at Vilu Bar, followed by a gala dinner on the beach. Beneath a canopy of stars, an exquisite menu meets the ocean’s gentle rhythm. Christmas Day brings a festive Christmas spread, a beachside buffet of seasonal favourites and island-inspired delights.

At the heart of the festive season is a series of gourmet events, each a celebration of place and culinary artistry. The programme is highlighted by two exclusive evenings with two-Michelin-starred Chef Benjamin Peifer, whose distinctive fusion of Palatinate and Japanese cuisine is offered at Olive restaurant for an intimate gathering of just twenty-two guests on each occasion. On 28 December, an inspired four-course dinner showcases his culinary vision. This is followed on 30 December by a five-course Wine & Dine experience where intense, fire-roasted izakaya-style flavours are harmonised with expert pairings from Sommelier Jan Spener.

The warmth of shared evenings continues with menus shaped by the surrounding ocean and the rich traditions of the archipelago. One night will offer a Taste of Asia, a journey through bold spices and aromatic herbs. Another evening brings the spirit of the Maldives to life with the pulsing beat of boduberu, a living story told through drumming and savoured with exquisite cocktails and light Maldivian bites. Even in the stillness of morning, there is life, found at Vilu Bar in the conviviality of a traditional Frühschoppen, where freshly baked pretzels and wheat beer are shared in the sunlight.

There will be elegant tastings on the beach with a curated selection of fine Champagnes and sparkling wines, and a collection of wines selected by Sommelier Jan Spener, perfectly complemented by an assortment of delicious canapés.

The New Year is welcomed with an evening of music, indulgence, and culinary excellence. As twilight descends, guests will gather at the water’s edge to savour canapés and cocktails crafted for the season. Dinner unfolds under the stars, a six-course journey of exceptional ingredients and refined flavours. As midnight approaches, the final moments of the year dissolve into music and dancing. A passage from one year to the next.

The first morning of the year begins with a leisurely, festive New Year’s Day breakfast and later that evening a New Year’s feast will be held at Sea Grill, presenting an elegant four-course menu perfectly paired with sparkling wine in a refined seaside setting.

Varu Spa offers restorative rituals to elevate the self and soul. Treatments shaped by the ocean’s calm and the warmth of island air invite a deeper stillness. Guests can surrender to deep tissue massage with warming oils, or let heated stones promote a sense of flowing energy. Inspired by ancient traditional Thai medicine, Stretch Therapy uses pressure point therapy and gentle stretching to restore balance and vitality to the body. A Rose Indulgent Scrub nourishes and moistures, leaving skin deeply hydrated and radiant, while tailored facials enhance skin health for a complete reset. For a shared experience, the Varu Haven couples’ treatment begins with a sea salt soak and concludes with a symbol of connection.

Beneath the water’s surface, a house reef rich with marine life stretches out beyond the shore. Sunlit mornings and afternoons are spent on guided excursions into clear water, slow drifts through coral gardens, and the quiet wonder of the sea on guided swims alongside majestic manta rays and whale sharks. The festive programme is complemented by stand-up paddleboarding, champagne sunset cruises, and spirited games of beach volleyball.

The Kandolhu festive programme offers a pathway to revival and renewal. More than an escape, it is a recalibration.

For reservations and more information, please visit www.kandolhu.com or contact the reservations team at +960 668 0790 / info@kandolhu.com.

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