Connect with us

News

Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort introduces refurbished overwater villas with new category

Published

on

Set on a stunning natural island in the South Malé Atoll, surrounded by crystalline lagoon waters, Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort reintroduces its Over Water Villas with a full facelift following four months of extensive renovations. With an overhaul in the interiors, plus the installation of four new pools, the Maldivian playground is all set to cradle couples and families into vacation mode.

Drawing inspiration from the forms of a Maldivian boat and its journey over the serene Maldivian waters, the design concept for the over water villas revolves around the theme of “Sailboat Serenity”. Stephen O’Dell from the award-winning architecture and interior design firm, SODA (Thailand) Ltd., together with his team translated the concept into the interior design by reflecting the fluid lines and soothing ambiance of a boat journey, creating a space that blends the beauty of the surrounding water inside a villa that aims to offer relaxation and comfort to the guests.

Suspended over the crystal-clear lagoon surrounding a stunning natural island, the interior of the 40 over water villas is adorned in a colour scheme that creates a natural feel to the villas. Warm neutral tones used to set a soothing sense for guests are balanced with subtle accents of blue in the furnishing to reflect the water. On the outside, a fun yet clever play of space is defined with the addition of over water hammocks in the Sunrise and Sunset Over Water Villas.

Achieving a balance between functionality and design for a resort villa is a unique challenge for interior designers, but Stephen and his team have managed to provide spaces of practical comfort and ensure the villas serve as a Maldivian sanctuary for guests to unwind, unplug, relax, and rejuvenate in the island paradise.

The relaunch of Anantara Dhigu’s over water villas also sees the introduction of four new Deluxe Sunset Over Water Pool Villas. The transformation of the existing Sunset Over Water Villas with an addition of a much larger infinity pool increases the inventory of its much sought-after sunset-facing pool villas. The most exclusive of Anantara Dhigu’s over water villa categories, each of the villa offers 129 square metres of luxurious space, with direct access into the crystal blue waters of the lagoon.

Following the completion of the Over Water Villa refurbishments, Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort has several renovations in the pipeline for the year, including the addition of an exclusive bar, The Yellow Fin Club. The new bar will add to the resort’s numerous dining venues, where guests can enjoy the finest cuisines from across the globe while learning about old and new world wines from the resort’s Wine Guru. From expertly grilled meats, and fresh fish and seafood from the local waters at Sea.Fire.Salt. to a wholesome Italian fare at Aqua, as well as breakfast and themed dinner buffets at Fushi Café, guests are spoiled for choices.

On neighbouring sister island Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, Origami serves modern Japanese fare including teppanyaki and robatayaki, whilst Cumin offers dishes from Sri Lanka, India and Maldives, and Dhoni Bar specialises in Mediterranean tapas. Poised over water on the edge of a lagoon and outer reef, Baan Huraa delights with coconut curries from Thailand’s southern provinces and spicy dishes from the north.

Guests also have the freedom to dine outside the restaurants thanks to Anantara’s signature Designer Dining by Anantara experience with a private chef and sommelier.

Whether seeking serenity or reconnection, travellers will find a wide array of water- and land-based activities. Guests can enjoy the thrills of underwater discovery with Aquafanatics, the resort’s resident water sports partner, catch a wave during the surf season with resident experts Tropicsurf, and join the resort in its habitat preservation efforts by adopting a coral as part of Anantara’s sustainability programme with the resident marine biologist.

A tennis court and dedicated spaces for volleyball, badminton, table tennis, chess and Pétanque, plus a fully equipped fitness centre keeps guests occupied on land. Guests can also book fitness sessions with a personal trainer or try their hand in the boxing ring. Holidaymakers looking for quieter pursuits can book a Spice Spoons by Anantara cooking class, rejuvenate in the overwater Anantara Spa, or lounge by the infinity pool.

Located 21 kilometres south of Velana International airport, Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort is only 30 minutes by speedboat, available 24 hours a day. For more information or to make a reservation, call +960 664 4100, email dhigumaldives@anantara.com or visit here.

Awards

OZEN LIFE MAADHOO ascends to elite global ranks with Tripadvisor ‘Best of the Best’ 2025

Published

on

Famous of its unique offerings and rich ecosystem, OZEN LIFE MAADHOO has paved its position among the world’s most exceptional luxury private island by securing a coveted place in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best 2025. This prestigious recognition, awarded to only the top one percent of hospitality providers globally, serves as testament to the resort’s unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled guest experiences that blend Maldivian charm with world-class service.

The resort’s acclaimed INDULGENCE™ Plan continues to set the standard for comprehensive luxury in the archipelago, offering guests unlimited access to premium amenities including an extensive selection of fine spirits, and gourmet dining across seven specialty restaurants. Architectural marvels such as the iconic underwater restaurant M6m, provide breath-taking settings for memorable moments, while the resort’s spacious villas offering direct beach and lagoon access and unparalleled view of the Indian Ocean.

Culinary excellence forms the cornerstone of the OZEN LIFE MAADHOO experience, with innovative dining concepts that showcase the region’s finest ingredients. The resort’s culinary team collaborates with Michelin-starred guest chefs for exclusive events, while its hydroponic garden ensures the freshest zero-mile produce features prominently across menus. Wine enthusiasts can embark on curated tasting journeys featuring rare vintages, guided by the resort’s expert sommeliers.

Wellness takes centre stage with ELE|NA Elements of Nature Spa, where traditional wellness programmes complement cutting-edge treatments in spectacular overwater pavilions with glass floor panels. The resort’s dedication to holistic wellbeing extends to bespoke fitness regimes designed by experts, ensuring guests can maintain their wellness routines amidst paradise.

This latest accolade builds upon an impressive collection of recent honours, including the 2024 World Travel Awards for Indian Ocean’s Leading Villa Resort and Travel Time Awards for Best Romantic Resort in the Maldives and recognition by the resort’s commitment to sustainable tourism has been further validated by three consecutive years of Green Globe Certification, underscoring its leadership in environmentally responsible hospitality.

What truly sets OZEN LIFE MAADHOO apart is its unique combination of exceptional offerings – from being the first underwater restaurant in the South Malé Atoll and first indoor hydroponic garden in the Maldives, to its industry-leading INDULGENCE™ Plan that encompasses premium liquor labels and 250 wine selections. The resort’s marine conservation initiatives by the resident Marine Biologists, including coral propagation programmes, demonstrate its deep connection to the local ecosystem, while its 5-star PADI dive centre offers benefitted access to the region’s most spectacular underwater wonders.

As part of THE OZEN COLLECTION, OZEN LIFE MAADHOO continues to redefine the boundaries of luxury hospitality, offering discerning travellers an unforgettable blend of comprehensive indulgence, sustainable innovation, and authentic Maldivian charm. With its latest recognition placing it among the world’s absolute finest resorts, the property reaffirms its position as the premier choice for those seeking the ultimate Indian Ocean escape.

Continue Reading

News

Mercure Maldives Kooddoo to celebrate Eid Al-Adha with cultural immersion

Published

on

This June, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo invites guests to celebrate Eid Al-Adha with a deeply immersive two-day program that blends tradition, storytelling, and rare cultural craft. As part of the resort’s signature ‘Discover Local’ initiative, guests will experience some authentic side of the Maldives through culinary rituals, folklore, a Joali and palm leaves weaving sessions.

A Rare Tradition Shared: Joali Weaving

On Saturday, 7 June 2025, guests will take part in a Joali weaving workshop, where they’ll learn to create traditional coconut rope items using age-old island techniques. Joali weaving, typically passed down in island households and rarely demonstrated in hospitality settings, becomes a tactile way for guests to engage with living Maldivian heritage.

“We don’t want to just show our guests the Maldives, we want them to feel it through our traditions,” said Mohamed Irshad, Front Office Manager. “Joali weaving is one of those rare crafts that tells the story of resourcefulness, connection to nature, and island life.”

Eid Buffet and the Maali Parade

The celebration begins on Friday, 6 June, with a special Eid buffet inspired by Maldivian culinary heritage. Guests will enjoy refined versions of festive dishes made from fresh, local ingredients, a tribute to the holiday and the island’s vibrant flavors.

The following evening features the Maali Parade, a vivid, resort-led folklore procession inspired by masked figures from traditional Maldivian storytelling.

Maldivian Sandbank Picnic: A Culinary Ritual by the Sea

One of the most visually striking and sensory-rich experiences during Eid but available throughout the year, is the Sandbank Picnic. Set on a secluded sandbank, guests are welcomed with a traditional tray placed on top of tropical leaves, filled with Maldivian short eats, including:

  • Gulha – Coconut and tuna fritters
  • Kulhi Kaajaa – Spicy tuna bites
  • Bajiya – Pastries with sweet-spicy fillings
  • Rihaakuru Kaajaa – Deep, rich fish paste fritters
  • Dry Fish – Smoked tuna strips
  • Bodi – Coconut sweets with toddy syrup

Served with fresh coconut water, this picnic is more than a meal; it’s a cultural tasting ceremony that connects guests to the island’s culinary soul.

Year-Round Discover Local Experiences

Eid is part of a broader commitment to cultural programming at Mercure Maldives Kooddoo.

Through its Discover Local program, the resort offers guests:

  • Traditional sunset fishing
  • Palm leaf art
  • Cultural cocktails with a local twist, crafted using indigenous ingredients and inspired by island flavors

Guests can explore a rotating menu of signature Maldivian-inspired cocktails, including:

  • Maldivian Green – Gin, curry leaf-infused syrup, lemon, soda water
  • Ocean Breeze – Butterfly pea flower vodka, peach schnapps, pineapple, coconut syrup
  • Green Kooddoo – Rum, Malibu, pandan leaf juice, pineapple, coconut syrup
  • Mirus Rita – Maldivian chili-infused tequila, lime juice, sugar, tobacco
  • Coco Kurumba – Tamarind juice, whisky, coconut milk, passion fruit syrup

These handcrafted beverages add a new dimension to local discovery, allowing guests to taste the islands in an entirely new way.

Whether joining for Eid or visiting any time of year, guests at Mercure Maldives Kooddoo are invited to experience the Maldives not just as a destination, but as a living culture.

Continue Reading

News

Pullman Maldives Maamutaa invites guests to vibrant cultural celebration this Eid

Published

on

This Eid al-Adha, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa invites guests to step into a vibrant cultural celebration on your island playground. Embracing the spirit of togetherness and the rich heritage of the Maldives, the resort presents a joyful lineup of experiences that unite guests and Heartists in a colorful fusion of tradition and community.

The festivities begin with the Maali Parade, a local custom brought to life on the island. Guests are welcome to join Pullman’s team in this playful and symbolic procession, as traditional Maali characters, often masked and adorned, bring music, energy, and joy across the island. This unique event offers a rare glimpse into the authentic way Maldivians celebrate Eid, inviting everyone to be part of something truly local and unforgettable.

Following the parade, the rhythm of the Maldives continues with a traditional Bodu Beru performance and cultural dance, energizing the beachfront with powerful beats and communal joy. Guests are then invited to a cocktail reception at Mélange Beach, featuring a handpicked selection of tapas in a relaxed and stylish setting under the stars.

To complete the evening, the resort’s signature restaurant, Mélange, will host a special Maldivian and Asian buffet curated exclusively for Eid al-Adha. The spread features bold flavors, island-grown ingredients, and regional favorites; a culinary journey that pays tribute to the richness of the region and the festive spirit of the holiday.

For those looking to turn celebration into a luxurious escape, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa introduces an exclusive Eid al-Adha package. Priced at just AED 8,000 for two adults, the offer includes a three-night stay in a Beach Pool Villa, domestic transfers, and access to the resort’s generous all-inclusive program across six food & beverage outlets. From complimentary sunset cruises and daily water sports to an extended massage session and 50% off floating breakfasts, every detail of the package is designed to elevate your Eid getaway. It’s the perfect blend of indulgence, adventure, and cultural immersion.

At Pullman Maldives Maamutaa, every moment is designed to spark connection, celebration, and discovery. This Eid, the island becomes more than a destination. It becomes a shared experience where cultures meet, and memories are made.

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending

Copyright all rights reserved by Maldives Promotion House 2023.