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Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort introduces refurbished overwater villas with new category
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.
Ifuru Island Maldives has unveiled its newest culinary journey: the Indian Thali at Social House. This signature dining experience pays homage to the vibrant flavours, diversity, and cultural warmth of Indian cuisine, reimagined in the heart of the Maldives.
Inspired by Ayurveda’s Six Taste Theory, the Indian Thali is designed to provide a perfectly balanced meal that nourishes both body and soul. Guests can savour an array of authentic dishes that reflect India’s culinary soul, presented with the modern flair and island elegance that define Ifuru Island.
The Thali includes a generous spread of delights such as Jhinga Laziz, Butter Chicken, Boti Masala, Dal Makhani, Palak Paneer, Chana Masala, Tomato Rasam, served alongside Jeera Rice, Paratha, Mango Chutney, Masala Onion, Papadum, and a decadent Gulab Jamun Cheesecake.
“Crafting this Indian Thali has been a labour of love,” says Nadedja Bouacha, Executive Chef at Ifuru Island Maldives. “Each element is carefully prepared to honour India’s diverse culinary heritage while offering our guests a rich, comforting, and authentic experience in a setting as extraordinary as our island.”
The Indian Thali is now available at Social House, the resort’s popular dining venue known for blending global flavors with local flair and laid-back luxury.
Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or a first-time explorer, the Indian Thali at Ifuru Island is a celebration of culture, taste, and mindful eating.
Dusit Thani Maldives, the five-star luxury resort in the heart of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, has announced the launch of Well-Fest, a week-long celebration of holistic wellbeing, set against the breathtaking backdrop of sun, sand, and sea.
Taking place throughout the whole month of June, Well-Fest brings together a curated line-up of wellness experiences that nourish the body, calm the mind, and lift the spirit. Guests will have the opportunity to explore a thoughtfully designed program of sunrise yoga, sound healing, wellness workshops, plant-based cuisine, fitness sessions, and immersive nature-based activities — all designed to restore balance and inspire mindful living.
“Well-Fest is our invitation to guests to pause, reconnect, and embrace wellness in its many forms — all within the natural beauty and serenity of our island,” said Jean-Louis Ripoche, Area General Manager of Dusit Hotels & Resorts in Maldives. “From the healing garden of Devarana Wellness to the crystal-clear waters of our coral-rich reef, every corner of our resort is a sanctuary for self-care.”
Highlights of Well-Fest include:
- Daily Yoga & Qigong in the Garden of Devarana Wellness
- Plant-Based Culinary Experiences at Sala, the resort’s new organic vegan restaurant
- Guided Ocean Meditations and Breath-work Sessions
- Chef’s Garden Tours & Mindful Cooking Classes
- Sustainable Living Workshops focusing on local produce, zero-waste practices, and eco-conscious travel
- Family-Friendly Wellness Activities designed for parents and little ones
Guests can also enjoy exclusive Well-Fest Retreat Packages, featuring curated itineraries, spa treatments, and wellness amenities — perfect for solo travellers, couples, and families seeking rejuvenation and connection.
Whether you’re beginning your wellness journey or looking to deepen your existing practice, Well-Fest at Dusit Thani Maldives offers the space, inspiration, and serenity to recharge — inside and out.
Amilla Maldives warmly invites guests to experience a heartfelt Eid celebration from 6 to 9 June 2025, where four days of vibrant tradition and island joy unfold.
The festivities blend colourful parades, rhythmic Boduberu performances, and graceful dances with creative family crafts, soothing spa rituals, and spirited beach games. Guests can unwind with sunset sips by the sea, enjoy friendly volleyball matches, playful colour challenges, local island explorations, and immersive cooking experiences.
A traditional thatched hut village will showcase local crafts such as wooden lacquer work by artisans, alongside workshops and performances that offer guests a genuine connection to Maldivian heritage. Meanwhile, the island will be thoughtfully adorned with festive Eid decor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout the celebration.
Each day offers opportunities to relax by the sea with complimentary coconut drinks and shisha, as well as spa treatments and wellness moments designed to refresh the spirit. Alongside these celebrations, a variety of excursions and water sports are available, and the Kids’ Club provides engaging activities for younger guests, ensuring a harmonious experience for the whole family.
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