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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.
Cooking
Michelin-starred Chef Rico Birndt to lead culinary residency at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa
The essence of the Bavarian Alps meets the pristine shores of the Shaviyani Atoll as JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa partners with Michelin-starred and Green Michelin-starred Chef Rico Birndt for a spectacular culinary residency. On October 24,2026, guests are invited to “Savour the Moment” through an intimate dining experience that bring his acclaimed, eco-conscious artistry to the Maldives for the very first time.
Chef Birndt, the visionary behind Lake Chiemsee’s acclaimed Restaurant June, is renowned for creating contemporary, regionally rooted cuisine shaped by the natural rhythms of nature. As a recipient of both a Michelin Star for culinary excellence and a prestigious Green Michelin Star for his outstanding commitment to sustainability, his philosophy is anchored in a deep respect for seasonal cycles and zero-waste gastronomy.
Chef Birndt, the visionary behind Lake Chiemsee’s acclaimed Restaurant June, is renowned for creating contemporary, regionally rooted cuisine shaped by the natural rhythms of nature. As a recipient of both a Michelin Star for culinary excellence and a prestigious Green Michelin Star for his outstanding commitment to sustainability, his philosophy is anchored in a deep respect for seasonal cycles and zero-waste gastronomy. His kitchen relies on patience, fermentation, and meticulous craftsmanship. Herbs and vegetables grow directly on his restaurant’s terrace, developing depth and complexity through house-made miso, shoyu, and aging techniques. At JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, this mindset perfectly matches the resort’s own JW Garden, a signature brand sanctuary where fresh produce, edible flowers, and tropical herbs are harvested steps from the kitchen. Together, the two entities celebrate a shared dedication to conscious luxury, bridging alpine clarity with island purity.
Guests are invited to experience an exclusive, one-night-only dining event at Kaashi Restaurant on October 24, 2026. Set high above the island canopy, this breathtaking treetop venue will play host to a special six-course set menu. Chef Rico will personally orchestrate a symphony of flavours, beautifully marrying the vibrant bounty of the Indian Ocean with his precise, ingredient-led alpine cuisine. Throughout the evening, Chef Rico will engage in live culinary storytelling, personally guiding the guests through the inspiration behind each creation while highlighting his eco-conscious sustainability practices and the mindful sourcing of every ingredient.
As part of this collaboration, Marriott Bonvoy members will also have the chance to bid for an exclusive Marriott Bonvoy Moments: a Two-Night Culinary Experience with Chef Rico Birndt and a Four-Night Stay at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa from October 21 to 26, 2026, for the bid winner and their guest. The immersive journey begins with an interactive Garden to Table cooking class utilizing fresh, estate-grown ingredients, followed by an intimate lunch where Chef Rico will share the unique stories, inspirations, and philosophy behind his signature dishes. The highlight of the experience is an exclusive 10-course wine-pairing dinner on October 23, personally presented by Chef Rico at RIHA. RIHA—meaning “curry” in Dhivehi, is the resort’s intimate, open-air destination dining concept, blending heritage flavors with modern culinary artistry in a secluded beachfront setting.
This ultimate Maldivian getaway also includes two nights in a luxurious Overwater Pool Villa and two nights in a Beach Pool Villa, daily breakfast at Aailaa, a rejuvenating 50-minute Aromatherapy Ritual at the Spa by JW, and shared seaplane transfers from Velana International Airport—masterfully combining culinary discovery with indulgent relaxation.
“I am incredibly excited to bring the culinary philosophy of Restaurant June to the JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa,” says Chef Rico Birndt. “Modern luxury lies in authenticity and a true connection to the land. Bringing our approach to fermentation and garden sourcing to an environment as beautiful as the island allows us to create imaginative creations infused with local ingredients, crafted to surprise and delight our guests.”
“This collaboration with Chef Rico Birndt reflects our deep commitment to mindful luxury, holistic well-being, and culinary excellence,” says Mohit Dembla, General Manager. “We are thrilled to invite our guests to be wholly present for this journey, to connect with the story behind each ingredient, and to experience the thoughtful, sustainable hospitality that defines the JW Marriott brand.”
Tucked away in the tranquil Shaviyani Atoll, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa is a multigenerational sanctuary where comfort, creativity, and exceptional service come together seamlessly. From curated experiences to thoughtful touches throughout, every stay is designed to inspire connection and lasting memories.
For more information, please visit the resort’s website.
Family
Outdoor adventures, football sessions planned for Velaa Kids Week
Velaa Private Island will host Velaa Kids Week from 3 to 9 August 2026, bringing together outdoor activities, team challenges and sports sessions for young guests.
The programme will be delivered in partnership with Sharky & George, which specialises in activities and experiences for children. It has been designed to encourage creativity, curiosity and confidence through games and island-based exploration.
Activities will include outdoor adventures, interactive games, team challenges and opportunities to discover the resort’s natural surroundings. The programme will also provide children with opportunities to form friendships and develop teamwork skills during their stay.
World champion freestyle footballer Tobias Becs will join this year’s event, adding a sporting component to the programme. Becs will conduct sessions and demonstrations in which children can learn freestyle football skills, take part in physical activities and try new techniques.
His involvement is intended to introduce young guests to freestyle football in an accessible format, with sessions combining demonstrations, participation and play.
Velaa Kids Week forms part of the resort’s family programming and will offer a scheduled series of activities throughout the seven-day event.
Cooking
Japanese techniques meet Peruvian flavours in Tavaru’s new concept
Velaa Private Island has introduced a new dining concept at Tavaru, combining Nikkei cuisine with the restaurant’s teppanyaki experience.
The revised concept brings together Japanese cooking techniques and Peruvian flavours, with dishes prepared and presented in front of guests. Seasonal ingredients will form the basis of the menu, with an emphasis on freshness and live preparation.
Under the new format, guests will be able to curate their own menu according to their tastes and preferences. The resort said the approach is intended to provide a more personalised dining experience while retaining teppanyaki as the central element of the meal.
The concept reflects the foundations of Nikkei cuisine, which developed through the interaction of Japanese culinary traditions and Peruvian ingredients. At Tavaru, these influences will be incorporated into dishes prepared at the teppanyaki counter.
Tavaru is also one of Velaa Private Island’s landmarks. The structure rises 22 metres above the island, with 110 steps leading to its dining space. Guests may also reach the restaurant by glass lift.
A wine cellar located beneath Tavaru houses more than 1,000 labels, including vintages and bottles sourced from several wine-producing regions. The resort describes it as one of the largest collections of its kind in South Asia.
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