News
Maldives embraces Global Wellness Day with community, joy
On Saturday, June 8th, over one billion people worldwide were touched by Global Wellness Day 2024. This international celebration, established in 2012 by Belgin Aksoy, is a not-for-profit social project dedicated to promoting a healthier and improved life. Global Wellness Day aims to focus individuals and society on living well, achieving inner peace, and overcoming detrimental habits and stressors. Celebrated annually on the second Saturday of June, it involves millions of participants in over 170 countries, engaging in diverse activities.
This year marked the first year for Julia Ivankovich, co-founder of Bliss Maldives and Global Wellness Day ambassador in the Maldives, who expressed immense excitement at the enthusiastic participation from numerous resorts and the diverse nationalities that united for the occasion. It was a day filled with joy for both children and adults, showcasing the community’s diversity and strength. The ambassador extended gratitude to the supporters in Hulhumalé, who contributed their time, energy, and positivity to make the day memorable.
Wellness is about taking small daily steps, but a single day can significantly impact one’s life. With the theme #MagentaNature, the activities aimed to inspire healthier habits, provide moments of self-reflection, and unite the community. The ambassador’s primary goal was to make wellness accessible to everyone, emphasising that health and happiness should be universally enjoyed. The hope is that the wellness initiatives from June 8th will integrate into daily routines, with plans underway for more wellness opportunities leading up to Global Wellness Day 2025.
Among the numerous activities, the arts and crafts sessions for children using recycled materials and ocean energy stood out. A mindful breathing workshop provided a 60-second break from daily routines, introducing new breathing techniques and promoting present-moment awareness. Professionals shared their expertise and lifetime missions, leaving a lasting impact on the participants.
Children’s wellness was a central concern, with activities designed to create long-lasting, positive experiences based on natural health and happiness. These included distributing green apples and offering organic sparkling tea for a communal celebration. These moments fostered learning, connection, and a sense of responsibility for the world and its people.
As a first-time Global Wellness Day ambassador and a proud Maldivian resident, the ambassador extended heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported and participated in making the day a success. Special appreciation was given to the local community participants, especially the parents who brought their children, for their enthusiastic and energetic involvement in celebrating Global Wellness Day.
News
‘Around the World in Wonder’ brings culture, cuisine, celebration to Amilla Maldives
The festive season is in full swing at Amilla Maldives, where the island has come alive with Around the World in Wonder, a journey through global cultures, flavours and traditions. Inspired by Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days, the celebration runs from 20 December 2025 to 6 January 2026, inviting guests to explore the world without leaving the island.
A meaningful early highlight of the programme was Amilla’s 11th anniversary on 21 December, marked by a festive cocktail and cake-cutting ceremony, followed by a Maldivian Night with bodu beru performances. The celebrations continued with the Tree Lighting Ceremony, which formed the glowing centrepiece of an Italian-themed Masquerade Ball. The evening unfolded with Viennese waltz performances and a fire show, while carolers filled the air with gentle festive melodies.
Christmas Eve turned its focus to France, featuring the lively Dance of the Can-Can, a festive buffet and aerial hoop performances. On Christmas Day, Argentina took centre stage as Santa arrived by yacht and rolled into the festive train buggy, leading a joyful island parade and gift-giving moments. The day continued with a festive brunch celebrating flavour, fun and festive cheer.
Festivities will build towards New Year’s Eve, with the Around the World in a Cocktail party and Global Carnival Event, including live performances from the Hamilton Band, bongo beats, soaring saxophone, acrobats and fire dancers, culminating in a countdown to 2026 under the Maldivian night sky.
Every detail has been thoughtfully prepared by the Amilla Maldives team, allowing guests to relax, explore and celebrate in a setting shaped by nature, warmth and wonder.
Click here to explore the full festive programme at Amilla Maldives. For more information about Amilla Maldives, please visit www.amilla.com.
News
Christmas at Fushifaru Maldives begins with tree lighting, Boduberu, kids’ activities
Fushifaru Maldives welcomed the Christmas season in grand style, beginning with a mesmerising tree lighting ceremony on 20 December set against the serene sunset at Thundi, accompanied by live music and tantalising canapés to mark the start of the celebrations. The holiday season runs from 20 December to 6 January, offering a variety of family-friendly activities, including cupcake decorating, pool parties, Boduberu classes, sandcastle making, and tennis classes for the little ones.
On Christmas Eve, 24 December, guests enjoyed a truly unforgettable celebration. The evening began with Santa’s arrival and a sunset aperitif with kids’ gift-giving, followed by a Christmas Gala Dinner featuring an extensive selection of international cuisines. Seafood lovers delighted in a live grilled station featuring jumbo prawns, lobsters, fishes, clams, octopus, and many more, all beautifully displayed on the Maldivian Dhoni boat, alongside a dedicated Japanese corner offering fresh sashimi, oysters, and other delicacies.
For dessert, the chefs presented a heavenly assortment including mousses, crème brûlée, tiramisu, macarons, meringues, soufflés, and many more, ensuring every guest indulged in a sweet finale. The night culminated in a vibrant disco by DJ Elton and a breathtaking performance by Anastasia Gordienko, a talented hula hoops, LED, and aerial gymnastics performer, leaving guests in awe and perfectly closing the Christmas Eve celebration.
News
Villa Nautica hosts Bollywood filmmaker Farah Khan for holiday stay
Bollywood filmmaker and celebrated choreographer Farah Khan marked the festive season with a holiday escape to the Maldives, staying at Villa Nautica and experiencing the island’s signature mix of warmth, privacy, and ocean-side celebration.
A defining creative force in Indian entertainment, Farah Khan has shaped some of Hindi cinema’s most recognisable on-screen moments, from iconic dance sequences to blockbuster storytelling. Widely regarded as one of Bollywood’s most influential choreographers, she has worked across more than 80 films and received major recognition for her craft, including India’s National Film Award for Best Choreography and multiple Filmfare Awards.

Farah’s impact extends beyond choreography. As a director, she is known for beloved mainstream hits including Main Hoon Na, Om Shanti Om, and Happy New Year, bringing together spectacle, humour, and heart with a style that audiences instantly connect with. She is also a familiar face to viewers through television and entertainment formats, where her sharp wit and straightforward personality have made her a standout on screen.
Villa Nautica is located on Lankanfinolhu Island in the North Malé Atoll, just 20 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, making it an easy choice for travellers planning a festive season getaway in the Maldives. The resort is known for its yacht-life inspired spirit, shimmering lagoons, and a vibrant range of ocean experiences, including diving and watersports, paired with relaxed island luxury for all-day unwinding.
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