News
OBLU SELECT Lobigili Voted World’s Top Luxury Hotel 2024
Adult exclusive private island, OBLU SELECT Lobigili recognised as No. 1 Luxury Hotel Worldwide & No. 2 Hotel in the World and in 2024 Travellers’ Choice Awards by Tripadvisor.
OBLU SELECT Lobigili is crowned as No.1 Luxury Hotel globally AND No.2 Hotel in the coveted Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards 2024, outshining its own remarkable achievement last year as the world’s ‘Hottest New Hotel.’
The Travellers’ Choice Awards ‘Best of the Best’ celebrates the highest level of excellence in travel. It’s awarded to hotels and resorts who receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period. Out of 8 million listings, fewer than 1% of listed hotels achieve this accolade.
Christopher Baker, General Manager, couldn’t be prouder of his team, stating, “Bringing alive the COLOURS OF OBLU ethos of ‘Vibrant Destinations’, Lobigili blends alluring tropical vistas with elegant design. Here, we’re all about delivering that genuine, heartfelt service that is as discreet as it is personalised. It is this perfect balance that keeps our guests coming back for more. Since opening on March 24, 2022, we’ve become the go-to spot for adults, honeymooners and couples looking to renew their vows, celebrate that special anniversary or just escape the world to romance in paradise.”
In the Maldivian language of Dhivehi, ‘Lobi’ means love and ‘Gili’ means island. Located 15 minutes from Velana International Airport, Lobigili is a contemporary 5-Star resort, designed for couples and adults to enjoy a romantic getaway amidst brilliant Maldivian vistas. The resort is committed to operating sustainably and is Green Globe certified, the industry standard for today’s responsible hospitality operator. There are 68 private beach and water villas across three categories, all overlooking the brilliant blue lagoon. The resort’s perfect white sands complemented by sophisticated restaurants and spa, evoke a sense of seclusion and escape.
With transfers, accommodation, meals and experiences covered, guests can savour delectable meals at the all-day dining restaurant, unwind at The Swing Bar featuring an infinity pool and inviting hammocks, try fragrant seafood grills at Gaadiya 17 Food Truck, and experience the unparalleled ambiance of the Maldives’ largest under ocean restaurant, Only BLU – all features of the unique holiday plan, the Lobi PlanTM. From snorkelling adventures to soul-soothing wellness therapies at the beachside spa, every moment is infused with pure bliss. OBLU SELECT Lobigili isn’t just the world’s top luxury resort — it is your enchanting island romance waiting to happen.
Awards
Niyama Private Islands named one of the best by Condé Nast Traveler
Niyama Private Islands Maldives has once again been recognised for its uniqueness, exclusivity, and laid-back luxury, being named one of the ‘Best Resorts in the Indian Ocean’ at this year’s Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.
Set against the incomparable beauty of the Maldives, Niyama Private Islands offers a seductive and unique blend of luxury and adventure. Beyond its world-class accommodations, culinary offerings, and spa experiences, it provides an escape into the surreal across its twin islands, Chill and Play. Guests are invited to craft their own extraordinary experiences, from frolicking in the treetops to partying underwater, and zooming across the ocean with a Seabob, jetpacking, and surfing just offshore.
This award reflects Niyama’s dedication to creating unforgettable memories for its guests through bespoke services and thoughtful touches that exceed the expectations of even the most discerning travelers.
General Manager Hafidh Al Busaidy expressed the team’s gratitude, stating, “We are deeply honoured to receive this accolade from the esteemed readers of Condé Nast Traveler. It is recognition of our constant striving for excellence and our commitment to providing guests with uniquely crafted experiences. We thank the readers, our guests, partners, and our Niyama family for their unwavering support. And we promise to continue to elevate every stay with us, making each even more memorable than the last.”
Celebration
Magical Halloween fun for kids at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort invites families to experience a captivating Halloween celebration filled with mystery and excitement. On October 31, 2024, the resort’s Vommuli House will be transformed into a magical setting, offering a full day of enchanting activities tailored for young adventurers aged 4-12.
Children will engage their creativity through activities like eerie Mummy Crafting and an exhilarating Halloween Decoration Hunt. The excitement continues as kids enjoy breaking open the Monster Piñata, which releases candy and surprises. For budding artists, the Spoo-tacular Face Painting sessions will transform participants into their favourite ghouls and ghosts, while the Ghostly Gathering will provide a whimsical, mystical atmosphere.
The highlight of the day will be the grand Candy Crusaders Trick-or-Treat adventure, where participants in their most spook-tacular costumes will have the chance to win a prize for best dressed. Running from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the Children’s Club guarantees a day packed with fun and adventure for all young participants.
While the children immerse themselves in the Halloween festivities, parents can enjoy the resort’s luxurious amenities. From a serene overwater spa to world-class dining, adults have ample opportunities to relax and unwind. The resort, known for its blend of family-friendly entertainment and refined elegance, provides the ideal setting for an unforgettable holiday.
To ensure a seamless experience, families are encouraged to book in advance through their personal St. Regis Butler. All Halloween activities are exclusive to children aged 4-12, allowing parents the opportunity to relax while their little ones make lasting memories.
Cooking
Dusit Thani Maldives launches SALA: new vegan dining experience
Dusit Thani Maldives is enhancing its acclaimed culinary experience with the launch of SALA, a new vegan restaurant that features nutrient-rich, plant-based dishes made from premium locally sourced ingredients and produce grown in the resort’s own organic gardens.
SALA has been developed in collaboration with Chef Celia Lam, co-leader of the Slow Food Community Bangkok and an instructor at The Food School – Thailand’s premier academy of gastronomy with business incubation services, affiliated with Dusit Hospitality Education. The restaurant offers a carefully curated ‘plant-powered’ menu, with standout dishes like Greek orzo salad, baked spiced pumpkin, and eggplant steak a la plancha. A variety of salads, soups, and mains are also thoughtfully crafted to provide a delightful culinary experience.
Set in a traditional Thai-style house overlooking the turquoise waters of Baa Atoll, SALA reflects Dusit’s signature Thai-inspired hospitality. Its opening also aligns with Dusit International’s Tree of Life sustainability program, which focuses on environmental preservation, health, and well-being. By incorporating organic, plant-based cuisine into its dining options, Dusit Thani Maldives reaffirms its commitment to promoting sustainability and wellness within the luxury travel sector.
SALA will officially open on November 1, 2024. To mark the occasion, Chef Celia Lam will host exclusive masterclasses and interactive workshops from November 1-4, offering guests the chance to learn how to create exceptional vegan dishes using fresh, wholesome ingredients.
“This new organic restaurant underscores our commitment to fostering healthy, sustainable living while delivering an exceptional dining experience,” said Jean-Louis Ripoche, Area General Manager, Maldives. “We are thrilled to welcome Chef Celia Lam, whose passion for sustainability aligns with our vision. We are confident that SALA will appeal to health-conscious travellers looking for a transformative dining experience.”
Located in the heart of the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Dusit Thani Maldives offers a peaceful retreat that blends Thai-inspired luxury with Maldivian culture. Guests can enjoy unique experiences, including encounters with vibrant marine life, world-class wellness at Devarana Wellness, fine dining, luxurious villas, and a wide range of activities set against the stunning natural beauty of the Maldives.
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