News
Embark on Unforgettable Maldives Escapade with ‘Family Fun Summer’ Package
The Westin, Le Méridien and Sheraton in the Maldives unveils the ultimate summer getaway with exclusive benefits and sustainable travel experiences for families.
This summer, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, and Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa invite families to experience the breathtaking paradise of the Maldives with their ‘Family Fun Summer’ Package, where children under 12 dine and stay for free. The resorts offer a range of modern and spacious Two-Bedroom and Three-Bedroom Overwater and Beach villas, providing ample accommodation for the entire family. Families can immerse themselves in a host of specially curated experiences, including educational kids club programs, marine immersions, coral propagation activities, as well as culinary and wellness journeys, all embracing sustainable travel and catering to eco-conscious travelers.
Guests can reserve their extraordinary summer retreat before May 31, 2024, for stays until September 30, 2024, and enjoy other benefits such as daily breakfasts and dinners, a welcome amenity for kids, complimentary access to the gym and kids’ club, as well as non-motorized water sports activities.
Unleashing Family Adventures at Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa
Families can embark on an extraordinary summer getaway at Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa, a five-star eco-conscious haven nestled on Thilamaafushi Island in the enchanting Lhaviyani Atoll. Ideal for nature-loving families, this picturesque retreat is surrounded by indigenous flora and fauna, azure waters, and vibrant coral reefs bustling with marine life.
For a holiday filled with adventure and cherished moments, the resort presents edu-tainment activities for guests to explore Maldives’ rich nature and culture, fostering discovery and conservation. The Le Méridien Family Kids Hub welcomes young explorers, aspiring inventors, budding chefs, and culture enthusiasts into an immersive world of play and learning, allowing them to embrace the true spirit of the Maldives.
Guests can discover sensory delights at four distinctive restaurants and two bars, as well as indulge in pampering at the Explore Spa by Le Méridien. Inspired by the essence of the Maldives and infused with a passion for culture, cuisine, and design, the resort provides a playful sanctuary for curious and creative-minded travelers to savor the good life with a European spirit. Families can choose from the stylishly designed Two Bedroom Beach and Overwater Pool Villas, which offer modern amenities and stunning views of pristine beaches, the Indian Ocean, or the crystal blue lagoon.
The ‘Family Fun Summer’ Package at Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa elevates family vacations with daily breakfasts at Turquoise and dinners at Velaa Bar + Grill, Turquoise, or Riviera Tapas & Bar. The package includes kids under 12 stay and dine for free, a welcome pack for kids, Marine Biology Immersion for the whole family, complimentary access to the Le Méridien Family Kids’ Hub for children aged 4 to 12, and free access to Waves Fitness Centre along with daily non-motorized water sports activities.
Visit the website at lemeridien-maldives.com or book your stay here.
Unforgettable Family Adventures at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort
The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort encourages families seeking unforgettable adventures to indulge in the ultimate luxury and excitement this summer. Situated in the Baa Atoll within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve site, the resort provides a unique multigenerational retreat with signature wellness programs designed to help guests eat, sleep, move, feel, and play well during their travels. Little guests can immerse themselves in the enriching environment of The Westin Family Kids Club, with games, interactive and educational activities, giving parents a well-deserved break.
Families can have a rare encounter with majestic manta rays during the highly anticipated Manta season, which starts in May and extends until early November. For those interested in underwater life, the resort hosts a weekly Marine Biology presentation as well as a captivating coral propagation experience. Led by the resort’s passionate resident Marine Biologist, Brianna, guests can gain insights into the rich marine ecosystem and participate in engaging activities. Additionally, families can delight in dolphin and local island excursions, big game fishing, and traditional sunset fishing.
The resort features luxurious Two Bedroom Pool Villas and a three-bedroom Heavenly Beach Residence with contemporary decor inspired by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, featuring signature Heavenly® Beds for restorative sleep. Food enthusiasts can explore the resort’s four unique dining menu concepts, including Japanese cuisine, international flavors, Asian street-food-inspired dishes, and unforgettable destination dining experiences.
Families booking the ‘Family Fun Summer’ Package can unlock a range of benefits, including daily breakfasts at Island Kitchen and dinners at select restaurants. Children under 12 can stay and dine for free, receive a welcome amenity for kids, complimentary access to the Westin Family Kids Club, and ‘The Westin Maldives Kids Sleep Manual.’ Additionally, guests can maintain their wellness routines with complimentary access to the 24/7 WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio.
For more information, visit the website at westin-maldives.com or book your stay here.
Sustainably Savvy: Explore Family Fun at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa
Families planning a tropical getaway this summer can look forward to exciting adventures at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa. The five-star resort welcomes families to explore the natural splendor of North Male Atoll on the private island of Furanafushi. Guests can choose from a range of premium villas and overwater bungalows that featuring breathtaking views of the lush gardens, pristine white-sand beaches, shimmering blue lagoon or the Indian Ocean.
Guests can delve into the resort’s signature ‘Side by Side’ Family Program, designed to create memorable moments that bring families together. From cooking classes, mom and daughter face mask making, Maldivian palm weaving to engaging fun games, ‘Side By Side’ promises cherished memories for families. The resort boasts seven restaurants and bars, each offering a variety of delectable menus sourced with fresh organic produce from Chef Garden and Furana Organic Garden, perfect for families.
Guests can participate in the ‘Adopt A Coral’ – coral planting activity led by the resident Marine Biologist and learn about coral propagation to help grow new colonies in the resort’s lagoon. This program, part of Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy, allows guests to create meaningful travel experiences. Families can also enjoy a guided snorkeling tour or join a dolphin cruise along the Indian Ocean aboard a traditional Maldivian Cruise Dhoni.
With the ‘Family Fun Summer’ package, guests can savor daily breakfasts and buffet dinners at Feast Restaurant or opt for three-course à la carte meals at select restaurants. Kids will receive a special welcome amenity, and children under 12 can stay and dine for free. Additionally, complimentary access to the Kid’s Club is provided for children ages 4 to 12. The resort is conveniently accessible by a complimentary 15-minute speedboat ride to and from Velana International Airport, ensuring a stress-free journey for families.
For more information, visit the website at sheratonmaldives.com or book your stay here.
Explore all of our ‘Ultimate Family Summer Getaway’ packages here.
Marriott Bonvoy members can seamlessly earn and redeem their points on stays and experiences at the resorts. To know more about the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of resorts in the Maldives click here. For more information, please visit www.marriott.com.
Awards
Kuramathi Maldives earns HolidayCheck Gold Award for consistent guest satisfaction
Kuramathi Maldives has once again cemented its status as one of the Maldives’ leading holiday destinations by earning the coveted HolidayCheck Gold Award 2026. This prestigious accolade recognises the resort’s enduring popularity and consistent excellence in hospitality, marking it as a top choice for travellers across the globe.
The HolidayCheck Gold Award is an exclusive honour reserved for hotels that have demonstrated remarkable consistency in guest satisfaction. To qualify for this distinction, a property must have received a HolidayCheck Award at least five times since 2019. This rigorous criterion ensures that only establishments delivering sustained high-quality experiences over several years are recognised.
Reflecting on this milestone award, General Manager Bertrand Margerie expressed immense pride: “We are thrilled to be recognised with the HolidayCheck Gold Award 2026. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and passion of our entire team, who strive every day to provide exceptional service. Knowing that this award comes directly from the positive feedback of our guests makes it even more meaningful, and we look forward to continuing to deliver world-class Maldivian hospitality.”
Located in the North Ari Atoll, Kuramathi stretches across 1.8 kilometres of lush, tropical beauty. This idyllic sanctuary, with its vibrant coral house reef that gently unfurls into a shimmering sandbank, is a perfect symbol of natural beauty. From its pristine beaches and lush vegetation to its diverse dining options and heartfelt service, Kuramathi continues to set the benchmark for Maldivian hospitality. The Gold Award serves as a testament to the thousands of positive reviews and recommendations shared by satisfied guests who have experienced the magic of the island firsthand.
Travellers seeking an award-winning escape are invited to discover why Kuramathi remains a perennial favourite. Whether looking for a romantic retreat, a family adventure, or a diving getaway, the resort offers an exceptional environment that consistently exceeds expectations.
Cooking
ONDA debuts at The Standard, Maldives as new Mediterranean dining venue
The Standard, Maldives is making waves with the debut of ONDA. More than just a restaurant, ONDA (meaning “wave”) is an energetic, sophisticated take on Mediterranean cuisine, designed to be the most exciting dining destination in the region. Delivering bold, soulful food with a “come-as-you-are” vibe, ONDA flips the script on typical resort dining by replacing formality with pure, sun-drenched enjoyment.
“ONDA is a commitment to the playful, unconventional spirit of The Standard,” says Justin Swart, General Manager. “We aren’t just breaking the mold; we’re setting a new benchmark for fresh, flavorful experiences that are truly full of life.”

Led by Chef David Hartwig, a visionary with a Michelin-starred pedigree, ONDA is a passion project rooted in the philosophy of “Close to Nature, Close to Tradition.” His menu celebrates pristine Maldivian seafood through a Mediterranean lens.
Signature dishes include:
- Red Snapper Crudo: A tribute to local waters, utilising traditional curing methods paired with a high-umami citrus vinaigrette—the “hero” of Mediterranean fruit.
- Caramelle Scampi with Chives: Hand-crafted pasta paired with succulent scampi in a refined, chive-infused bouillabaisse foam.
- ONDA Bouillabaisse: A lighter, vibrant reimagining of the French classic, utilising a base of scampi heads and herbs sourced from neighbouring islands.
- Amalfi Lemon Cake: A moist, citrus-forward sponge that captures the aromatic essence of the Mediterranean coast.

The beverage programme at ONDA reimagines classics through house-made cordials, tinctures, and infusions. The aspiration is to treat every cocktail as a sensory voyage.
- Golden Drift: A smoky, citrus journey of aquavit, sherry, and pineapple, inspired by Mediterranean sunsets.
- ONDA Spritz: A sparkling ode to coastal gardens featuring tangerine sherbet and woodruff tincture.
- Mindful Drinking: A sophisticated 0% cocktail selection ensures every guest enjoys the same complexity and flair without the alcohol.
The wine programme at ONDA is curated to tell a story of heritage. From the crisp minerality of a Joseph Drouhin Chablis 2022 to the prestige of Ornellaia Bolgheri DOC Superiore, the list is designed for the discerning palate. Our team focuses on the “why” behind every bottle, explaining the significance of labels like Chapoutier’s 2017 Chrysopée to ensure perfect harmony with Chef Hartwig’s menu.

ONDA is here to stay, rewriting the rules for island dining. It’s the brand’s definitive answer to luxury without pretension, an anchor point for flavour and fun that promises to be just as fresh and exhilarating as the Maldivian waves it’s named after. The New Wave of Culinary Excellence has officially Arrived at The Standard Maldives, proving ONDA is exactly what The Standard does best: taking the typical resort dining experience and flipping it on its head.
News
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives plans Chinese New Year dining and wellness experiences
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives invites guests to welcome the Chinese New Year with a refined island celebration taking place from 15 to 20 February 2026. The resort presents a curated programme of dining, wellness, cultural, and family experiences designed to honour the Year of the Horse in a serene and immersive setting.
In Chinese culture, the Year of the Horse symbolises strength, vitality, and forward movement which are values that resonate deeply with Alila’s philosophy of purposeful living, personal growth, and meaningful connection to nature. Reflecting this ethos, the resort’s Chinese New Year programme encourages guests to slow down, reconnect, and begin the year with clarity and intention.
“At Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, Chinese New Year is a meaningful opportunity to celebrate renewal and togetherness in a way that feels authentic and unhurried,” said Thomas Weber, the General Manager of Alila Kothaifaru Maldives. “Inspired by the Year of the Horse, our celebrations are designed to embody balance, resilience, and mindful progression which allowing guests to embrace the new year through enriching moments, shared traditions, and restorative experiences.”

The festivities are anchored by elevated Chinese New Year themed ‘Boat To Table” at Seasalt Restaurant, highlighting thoughtfully sourced ingredients and fresh island flavours, presented within a relaxed beachfront dining experience.
Cultural immersion continues with complimentary Dumpling Making Classes, offering guests a hands-on way to engage with time-honoured Chinese New Year traditions in an intimate and interactive setting.
Wellness takes centre stage at Spa Alila with Spring of Luck, a restorative ritual inspired by the season of renewal. Combining a Mandarin Body Renewal with a personalised massage, the experience reflects Alila’s holistic approach to wellbeing, by nurturing both body and mind as guests step into the new year.

Adding a creative and reflective dimension to the celebrations, Mandala of the Horse invites guests to participate in a guided session inspired by themes of strength, creativity, and forward momentum. The experience encourages mindfulness and self-expression, aligning with the resort’s emphasis on purposeful, design-led encounters.
Families are also invited to celebrate together with Festive Fun at Play Alila, featuring a vibrant line-up of Chinese New Year–themed activities for children and families, from arts and crafts to playful traditions inspired by the season.
Blending refined dining, mindful wellness, cultural discovery, and family-friendly moments, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives offers a meaningful and elevated way to begin the Year of the Horse, rooted in balance, intention, and the beauty of island life.
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