News
Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards: Vote for Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has announced its nomination for the esteemed Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2024 under the Maldives Resorts category. This prestigious nomination underscores the resort’s dedication to providing unparalleled hospitality and showcasing the natural beauty of the Maldives.
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has set a new standard for luxury and comfort, offering guests a unique blend of Maldivian charm and contemporary elegance. The resort vividly depicts an idyllic tropical retreat nestled amid the turquoise waters of the North Malé Atoll. Its promise of a perfect island getaway for creating treasured memories is complemented by the highest service standards, spacious beach and water villas, and a unique culinary experience with seven different restaurants offering 11 distinctive cuisines,
The accommodations at Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives are designed with both luxury and style in mind. The 75 villas and residences feature an Asian eclectic aesthetic, incorporating local arts and fabrics to create a unique sense of place. The open-plan layout of the spacious villas and suites allows guests to take in the breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean from every angle, whether they’re situated on the sunrise or sunset side of the island.
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives offers guests a unique, experience-driven journey where time and space are redefined. The resort features an idyllic beachfront Spa located on a separate island, providing a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. One of the Maldives’ largest pools, spanning 150 meters, invites guests to unwind in style with stylish sunbeds, cabanas, and a chic bar encircling the azure expanse. Adventure awaits at Chickens Break, a world-class surfing point accessible from the resort’s shores, renowned for the longest left-hand barrel in the Maldives.
At the heart of Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives is its commitment to exceptional hospitality. The resort’s dedicated team goes above and beyond to ensure that every guest’s stay is personalized and memorable. From warm welcomes to attentive service throughout the stay, the staff at Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives are devoted to creating a home-away-from-home experience. Guests can expect seamless service that anticipates their needs, whether indulging in the seven gourmet dining options, exploring the vibrant marine life, or simply relaxing in their luxurious accommodations.
“We are incredibly honored to be nominated for the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2024,” said Amjad Thaufeeg, Commercial Director of Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives. “This recognition is a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication to delivering exceptional service and creating memorable experiences for our guests. We are grateful to our guests for their support and Condé Nast Traveller for this prestigious acknowledgment.”
This nomination reaffirms and places Kuda Villingili as a top luxury resort in the Maldives, offering an unparalleled experience that combines luxury, comfort, and adventure in a stunning tropical setting.
The public can now vote in the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2024 until June 30, 2024. Through the reader-led approach, travelers and enthusiasts can take an active role in honouring and recognising excellence in the travel industry.
Kuda Villingili invites all individuals to vote and help the resort be acknowledged for its commitment to providing unmatched luxury experiences in the heart of the Maldives. Thank you for taking the time to vote and showing Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives your support and love.
To cast your votes, simply visit bit.ly/Vote-KudaVillingili-CondenastAwards , search for ‘Kuda Villingili Resort | North Male’ Atoll (Maldives)’ and complete the survey.
News
Manhattan Grand Hotel aims to transform Maldives’ MICE industry
Manhattan Grand Hotel is set to redefine the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) industry with the launch of one of the largest integrated MICE and event destinations in the Greater Malé Area. Combining premium accommodation, versatile event venues, multiple dining outlets and comprehensive event services under one roof, the hotel is now accepting advance bookings for conferences, exhibitions, corporate events, weddings and social celebrations from September 2026 onwards.
Purpose-built to meet the growing demand for world-class event facilities, the hotel offers three major event halls Mā Ashi (700 sqm), Maalan (400 sqm) and Holhuashi (390 sqm) supported by the Ras Ain Meeting & Conference Facilities, comprising Ras Giri Conference Room, Ras Faruma Training Room, Ras Vani Meeting Room and Ras Pod working spaces. Together with 162 contemporary guest rooms, four restaurants and dedicated event services, Manhattan Grand Hotel provides a complete destination for events of every scale.
Designed to cater for conferences, exhibitions, Government and State-Owned Enterprise (SOE) meetings, Annual General Meetings (AGMs), corporate conventions, product launches, seminars, training programmes, weddings, gala dinners and private celebrations, Manhattan Grand Hotel can comfortably host three major events simultaneously. With separate guest flows, dedicated banquet operations and professional event management teams, each event can operate independently without disruption to others, setting a new benchmark for MICE facilities in the Greater Malé Area.
Complementing the event facilities are four distinctive dining outlets Hen Na, Manhattan Fish Market, Café Barbera and Vilu offering organisers a variety of dining experiences for delegates, networking sessions, VIP functions and private events. The hotel also features professional audiovisual technology, LED displays, high-speed Wi-Fi, conference facilities, integrated catering services and dedicated event management support, delivering a seamless experience from planning through execution.
The Chief Operating Officer of Manhattan Grand Hotel said: “Our vision is to redefine how conferences, exhibitions and major events are hosted in the Maldives. Manhattan Grand Hotel has been purpose-built to deliver the scale, flexibility and professional services required by government institutions, state-owned enterprises, corporations and international event organisers. By bringing together one of the largest integrated MICE facilities in the Greater Malé Area with premium accommodation, dining and hospitality, we are changing the landscape of MICE events in the Greater Malé Area and setting a new benchmark for the industry. We look forward to welcoming our first events from September onwards.”
Strategically located in Hulhumalé, just minutes from Velana International Airport, Manhattan Grand Hotel is positioned to become the preferred venue for government institutions, SOEs, corporate organisations, international associations, event organisers and wedding planners seeking a world-class venue in the Maldives.
Drink
SO/ Maldives introduces premium Dilmah Tea experience
Luxury is often found in life’s quietest moments, the gentle sound of waves, the warmth of the tropical breeze, and now, the comforting aroma of a perfectly brewed cup of tea. Embracing this philosophy, SO/ Maldives has introduced an exclusive collaboration with Dilmah Tea, bringing one of the world’s most celebrated premium tea experiences to the island.
More than simply serving exceptional tea, the partnership reimagines how guests connect with the destination. Every carefully selected blend becomes an invitation to slow down, reconnect with nature, and embrace the effortless sophistication that defines the SO/ Maldives experience. Whether enjoyed overlooking the turquoise lagoon, paired with an elegant afternoon indulgence, or savoured during moments of wellness and relaxation, Dilmah Tea becomes another expression of the resort’s signature Island Couture lifestyle.
Rooted in authenticity and sustainability, Dilmah’s philosophy of handpicked, single-origin Ceylon tea perfectly complements SO/ Maldives’ commitment to meaningful luxury experiences. Together, the two iconic brands celebrate craftsmanship, conscious living, and unforgettable moments shared in one of the world’s most breathtaking island destinations.
To commemorate the collaboration, SO/ Maldives will host an exclusive Dilmah Tea Launch Experience on 04th August 2026 at the vibrant Lazuli Beach Club, inviting resort guests and distinguished partners to discover the art of tea through an immersive evening of flavour, storytelling, and entertainment.

Guests will begin the experience with a signature welcome before exploring an interactive Dilmah Tea Experience featuring a curated collection of premium tea varieties. Guided by the Dilmah team, guests will discover the heritage behind each blend, learn the art of tea appreciation, and experience thoughtfully curated snack pairings designed to enhance every flavour profile.
As the sun begins to set over the Indian Ocean, the evening will seamlessly transition into a celebration of SO/ Maldives’ unmistakable style. A spectacular Flying Dress showcase will capture the vibrant colours and elegance of island couture against the Maldivian horizon, followed by a captivating fire performance that lights up the beach, creating an unforgettable finale beneath the stars.
The introduction of Dilmah Tea further strengthens SO/ Maldives’ commitment to offering world-class culinary and lifestyle experiences that blend international excellence with the serenity of island living. Guests can now discover an elevated tea programme across selected dining venues and experiences, reinforcing the resort’s promise to deliver exceptional moments from sunrise to sunset.
From tranquil mornings overlooking crystal-clear lagoons to golden-hour reflections by the beach, every cup of Dilmah Tea invites guests to pause, breathe, and savour the beauty of the present, transforming an everyday ritual into an extraordinary island experience.
For more information or to book your perfect getaway, please visit so-maldives.com or contact so.maldives.reservations@so-hotels.com or call +960 664-9100.
Awards
.Here Baa Atoll receives Forbes VERIFIED™ Responsible Hospitality recognition
.Here Baa Atoll has been awarded the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide VERIFIED™ Responsible Hospitality recognition, affirming the resort’s commitment to responsible luxury and its dedication to delivering exceptional guest experiences while embracing sustainable and ethical hospitality practices.
Developed by Forbes Travel Guide, the global authority on luxury hospitality, the VERIFIED™ Responsible Hospitality programme recognises hotels and resorts that demonstrate a comprehensive commitment to environmental stewardship, community engagement, employee wellbeing and responsible operational practices. The recognition is awarded following an independent assessment of more than 100 standards designed specifically for the luxury hospitality sector.
Located within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, .Here Baa Atoll has been conceived around the philosophy of The Art of Duality—bringing together immersive luxury and a profound respect for the natural world. Across its two private islands connected by a pristine sandbank, the resort integrates thoughtful design, personalised experiences and responsible practices that aim to preserve the destination for generations to come.
The recognition reflects the resort’s ongoing efforts to minimise its environmental impact while creating meaningful experiences that connect guests with the unique marine ecosystem and cultural heritage of the Maldives. Through responsible resource management, conservation initiatives, local partnerships and a continued focus on guest and team wellbeing, .Here Baa Atoll strives to demonstrate that exceptional luxury and responsible hospitality can exist in harmony.
“This recognition represents an important milestone for .Here Baa Atoll and reflects the collective commitment of our team to creating experiences that are both meaningful and mindful,” said Elina Adiyan, Resident Manager of .Here Baa Atoll. “Responsible hospitality is embedded in every aspect of the guest journey, from the way we design experiences to how we care for our people, our community and the remarkable environment that surrounds us. We are honoured to be recognised by Forbes Travel Guide for this commitment.”
As global travellers increasingly seek destinations that align with their values, the Forbes Travel Guide VERIFIED™ Responsible Hospitality recognition reinforces .Here Baa Atoll’s position among the world’s leading ultra-luxury resorts, offering guests the confidence that their stay supports a property committed to responsible operations without compromising on service, comfort or exclusivity.
The achievement marks another significant milestone for the resort as it continues to establish itself as one of the Maldives’ most distinctive luxury destinations, where contemporary design, personalised hospitality and a deep respect for nature come together to create extraordinary experiences.
To learn more about .Here Baa Atoll, visit www.here-maldives.com.
-
Awards2 days agoThree Cinnamon Maldives resorts ranked among Tripadvisor’s top 10% worldwide
-
Awards1 week agoCentara Hotels & Resorts Maldives celebrates multiple global accolades
-
News1 week ago‘Prism’ brings a season of light and festive celebration to Sun Siyam Iru Veli
-
Cooking1 week agoThe Standard, Maldives celebrates Wellness Month with spa and culinary experiences
-
Action1 week agoFinolhu strengthens racquet sports programme with new tennis pro
-
News1 week agoSirru Fen Fushi unveils safari-inspired luxury glamping escape
-
Awards1 week agoReethi Faru Resort named among Tripadvisor’s top 10% worldwide
-
News1 week agoCoco Collection showcases Maldivian culture through authentic guest experiences


