News
Marriott Bonvoy unveils ‘Beyond Ordinary’ with luxury getaways to Maldives

Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of luxury resorts in the Maldives presents ‘Beyond Ordinary’ suite package, inviting guests to embark on an unparalleled journey of discovery amidst the enchanting allure of the Indian Ocean. Guests can experience the epitome of opulence at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort and JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa.
Ideal for families or a group of friends traveling together, the ‘Beyond Ordinary’ package inspires travelers to experience the ultimate blend of luxury and space with a variety of exquisite suite and multi-bedroom collections, specially curated resort experiences, and the opportunity to earn 20,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
Experience Beyond Ordinary at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
Families are invited to immerse themselves in the unique island life at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, where the legendary Ritz-Carlton service of its distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen and cherished moments await. Guests will begin their journey with the traditional Sangu shell blowing upon arrival, evoking ancient Maldivian traditions. An ‘Aris Meeha’, inspired by royal court traditions, provides dedicated island butler service, ensuring every need is seamlessly met. As the sun sets, guests can enjoy the Defining Moment with a traditional Bodu Beru drum performance and a flaming ceremony marking the transition from day to night.
The ‘Beyond Ordinary’ package offers exceptional inclusions for two adults and two children, including half-board dining featuring exquisite flavors at select restaurants, a bespoke wellness experience with a family aerial yoga session, a private Maldivian cooking class, and a ‘Cities Under The Sea’ snorkeling trip guided by Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment Program Naturalists. Families can choose from elegantly designed Two Bedroom Water or Beach Pool Villas, which feature separate living and dining areas with kitchenettes, two full bathrooms, and breathtaking infinity pools with integrated sundecks. For a truly extravagant getaway, guests can elevate their stay at The Ritz-Carlton Estate, a private beach residence offering exclusive cove access and stunning sunset views.
Visit the website at ritzcarlton.com/maldives or book your stay here.
Escape to Paradise at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort invites guests to indulge in luxury beyond the ordinary with the ‘Summer Escape to Paradise’ package at the Maldives’ finest address. Set against the backdrop of the alluring turquoise waters and pristine white sands, its premium two to three-bedroom villas offer an eco-conscious sanctuary of elegance and tranquility for groups and families. Each villa features private pools, panoramic beach views, state-of-the-art entertainment and luxurious amenities. The two-bedroom Knickerbocker and Cesar Balsa villas, perched elegantly on the white-sand beach, provide seclusion amidst natural island surroundings. The beachfront three-bedroom Caroline Astor Estate boasts a 67-square-metre private pool and floor-to-ceiling glass doors, with a terrace adjoining an ethereal living room. For the pinnacle of luxury, the John Jacob Astor Estate, one of the Maldives’ largest overwater villas, accommodates up to 10 guests with a private gym, cinema room, spa suites, infinity pool, and expansive outdoor terrace, ensuring unparalleled group comfort and relaxation.
The ‘Summer Escape to Paradise’ package encompasses full-board dining, an intimate private cooking class, personalized wellness screening, exclusive access to the Blue Hole Pool for hydrotherapy at the award-winning Iridium Spa, family movie nights under the stars, an educational dolphin exploration, a professional family photography session, complimentary creative arts and eco-adventure activities for kids, and a full range of complimentary services for guests. Along with the quintessential St. Regis Butler Service – a hallmark of the brand’s commitment to excellence – a dedicated St. Regis Butler is available to curate tailored experiences and meet every need of the guests.
For more information, visit the website at stregismaldives.com or book your stay here.
A Moment to Treasure at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa
Edging the azure waters of Shaviyani Atoll, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa welcomes families to its natural island paradise with stylish duplex villas featuring private pools, expansive decks, uninterrupted ocean views, and private ‘Thakuru’ butler service. A multigenerational luxury family retreat, the resort boasts Two-Bedroom Duplex Beach Pool Villas spanning 285sqm, among the Maldives’ most spacious accommodations, perfect for a family of five. Each villa offers secluded beachfront serenity amidst lush foliage, where parents can relax poolside while children play on the soft white sand washed by the Indian Ocean’s gentle surf. For smaller families, its Duplex Overwater Pool Villas offer 274sqm of contemporary design, providing ultimate privacy and tranquility with direct access into the crystal blue lagoon.
Families can choose from a variety of half-board culinary options: international cuisine at Aailaa for all-day dining, alfresco Italian dining by the pool at Fiamma, or authentic Thai treetop dining at Kaashi. Young guests can enjoy over 100 activities at FAMiLY by JW™ Little Griffins Kids Club, one of the biggest kids clubs in the Maldives. The ‘Beyond Ordinary’ package also includes a 50-minute Ultimate Aromatherapy signature treatment at the award-winning Spa by JW for two guests. A highlight of the inclusion is a unique destination dining experience around a sunken outdoor Tandoor & Tawa at RIHA, offered once during their stay. Families can indulge in a private eight-course menu that blends Indian and Western flavors, taking them on a culinary journey from Kashmir to Madurai, Goa, Rajasthan, and Bengal.
For more information, visit the website at jwmarriottmaldives.com or book your stay here.
Book your four-night stay in any one of the three resorts in the Maldives by August 17, 2024, to enjoy daily sumptuous breakfasts and dinners, alongside rejuvenating wellness journeys. What’s more, 20,000 bonus points will be credited to your Marriott Bonvoy account. Valid for stays until June 30, 2025.
News
Maldives ranked no. 1 island in Africa and Indian Ocean by Condé Nast Traveller

Maldives has once again affirmed its position as a leading global island destination, being ranked No. 1 in Africa and the Indian Ocean at the Condé Nast Traveller 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards, announced on 7 October 2025.
The annual Readers’ Choice Awards, among the most respected accolades in the travel industry, celebrate the best destinations, hotels, resorts, islands, and experiences as voted by the magazine’s international audience of travellers. This year, the Maldives achieved an outstanding score of 97.50, securing the top spot ahead of Madagascar, the Lamu Archipelago in Kenya, and Zanzibar in Tanzania.
Top Islands in Africa and the Indian Ocean – 2025
- Maldives – 97.50
- Madagascar – 92.42
- Lamu Archipelago, Kenya – 92.38
- Zanzibar, Tanzania – 91.43
- Seychelles – 85.71
- São Tomé, São Tomé and Príncipe – 80.71
- Réunion, France – 79.49
- Pemba Island, Tanzania – 78.94
In its write-up on the Maldives, Condé Nast Traveller noted:
“Sometimes only the Maldives will do – a place where the sand is eye-searingly white, the water is as swimming-pool blue as it looks on the postcards and the deliciously reliable weather makes it a winter-sun showstopper. The archipelago is thrilling to fly over – that seaplane view of the pancake-batter atolls blasts away any long-haul fogginess. And while the perfect beaches, colour-popping coral reefs and hammocks under swaying palm trees come as standard, it’s the hotels that give each one of these islands something different to offer.”
Highlighting two of the country’s standout properties, the publication spotlighted Constance Halaveli and Constance Moofushi for their exceptional hospitality, design, and guest experiences.
At Constance Halaveli in North Ari Atoll, Condé Nast Traveller praised the resort’s balance of indulgence and relaxation, citing its refined dining experiences, family-friendly atmosphere, and world-class wellness offerings. The resort’s holistic spa treatments, extensive wine cellars, and world-renowned diving opportunities—where manta rays and reef sharks can even be spotted from the terrace—were among the noted highlights.
Meanwhile, Constance Moofushi, described as a “proper all-inclusive retreat made even smarter after a recent renovation,” was commended for its vibrant atmosphere, attentive service, and seamless blend of luxury and laid-back charm. The publication noted that guests can enjoy high-quality wines, exceptional cuisine, and beautifully designed villas that maintain an intimate, welcoming ambience.
The recognition of the Maldives as the best island destination in Africa and the Indian Ocean reinforces its global reputation for luxury travel, world-class resorts, and natural beauty. From pristine lagoons and overwater villas to innovative wellness concepts and sustainable tourism initiatives, the Maldives continues to set benchmarks for island hospitality.
As travellers seek meaningful, immersive experiences, the Maldives remains a symbol of paradise perfected—where each island tells its own story and every resort captures the essence of barefoot luxury.
Culture
SO/ Maldives illuminates Diwali with culinary delights, festive spirits, chic island vibes

This Diwali, SO/ Maldives is set to dazzle with a bold celebration that blends cultural tradition with the resort’s signature flair. Guests are invited to indulge in a day of flavor, music, and style, wrapped in the spirit of light and festivity.
The day begins at The Citronelle Club, where guests can immerse themselves in India’s sweetest traditions with a complimentary Gulab Jamun cooking class. This hands-on session not only celebrates the art of crafting one of India’s most iconic desserts but also offers guests a memorable experience of cooking and tasting together in true festive spirit.
Following the workshop, the culinary journey continues with an exclusive tasting of SO/ Maldives’ brand-new Indian à la carte menu. Bursting with bold flavors and modern interpretations, this exciting menu brings a fresh twist to traditional favorites, showcasing dishes designed to delight both seasoned gourmands and those discovering Indian cuisine for the first time.
As the afternoon rolls into evening, the celebrations flow seamlessly to Lazuli Beach Club and The Citronelle Club, where guests can savor the moment with 40% off select premium beverage bottles. Whether shared over a meal or enjoyed as a toast to togetherness, these indulgent pours elevate the festive mood with sophistication.
The evening comes alive with a vibrant lineup of cultural and family-friendly activities. Guests can express their creativity at a Family Diya Workshop, lighting up the night with personalized clay lamps that symbolize joy and prosperity. At Lazuli Beach Club, a Henna Workshop invites guests to adorn their hands with intricate patterns, while the beachfront transforms into a canvas for a Rangoli experience, where colorful designs bloom in the sand to celebrate the artistry and spirit of Diwali.

No Diwali celebration is complete without a golden-hour glow. At Lazuli Beach, the festivities shine brighter with 50% off saffron martinis during sunset, accompanied by live DJ beats. As the Maldivian sky turns to hues of orange and gold, guests can sip, sway, and soak in an electric yet elegant atmosphere, perfectly in tune with the spirit of Diwali.
“At SO/ Maldives, we reimagine cultural celebrations with a bold, chic island twist. This Diwali, we’ve curated a day that’s all about indulgence, flavors, music, and unforgettable moments,” said Olivier MOIES-DELVAL, General Manager, SO/ Maldives. “It’s about honoring tradition while celebrating in style, surrounded by the natural beauty and energy of the Maldives.”
SO/ Maldives invites guests to light up their Diwali with this one-of-a-kind experience that blends the richness of Indian traditions with the resort’s signature playful luxury.
Celebrate light, flavor, and island chic this Diwali at SO/ Maldives.
News
Reethi Faru Resort ushers in 2025/26 festive season with island joy

Reethi Faru Resort has officially ushered in the 2025/26 festive season with its annual Cake Mixing Ceremony, symbolising the beginning of a period filled with celebration, togetherness, and island warmth. The ceremony marks the start of an exclusive festive lineup designed to create unforgettable moments and experiences for guests.
Before the island sparkles with Christmas lights, October brings a tropical twist to Halloween. Guests are invited to exchange pumpkins for palm trees and enjoy a celebration of mystery, music, and fun. Highlights of the Halloween festivities include a live performance by award-winning artist VICTORI, a costume party, themed décor, signature cocktails, and family-friendly activities.
As the festive season progresses, the resort transforms into a vibrant sanctuary of joy. Guests of all ages can immerse themselves in a wide array of engaging activities that capture the essence of the holidays. Families are encouraged to join tree-decorating sessions, participate in creative workshops, and build gingerbread houses, while couples can enjoy romantic evening strolls along the island’s softly illuminated beaches. The atmosphere is defined by connection, joy, and a shared spirit of celebration.

Throughout December, Reethi Faru Resort will host themed experiences such as a festive Christmas dinner and a grand New Year’s Eve gala, culminating in a lively DJ party that invites guests to dance beneath the island skies. Complementing these celebrations are meaningful experiences such as coral planting sessions with the resort’s resident marine biologist, offering guests a unique opportunity to contribute to marine conservation. Those seeking relaxation can take part in restorative yoga sessions or indulge in revitalising spa treatments, while adventure enthusiasts can enjoy water sports, island excursions, and PADI diving experiences led by certified instructors.
The festive calendar also includes Reethi Faru’s anniversary celebration, the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, and the much-anticipated arrival of Santa Claus in true tropical style. The island’s lively ambience will be enhanced with live music, Maldivian cultural performances, outdoor movie nights, culinary showcases, and spontaneous moments of island bliss.

Every element of the festive programme has been thoughtfully designed to elevate the holiday mood, foster connection, and create lasting memories. From grand celebrations to quiet moments of reflection, Reethi Faru Resort ensures every guest departs with cherished memories and the joy of a truly magical Maldivian festive season.
-
Featured1 week ago
Shangri-La Villingili Resort reopening announced for December 2025
-
Awards1 week ago
Hulhule Island Hotel wins South Asia’s Leading Airport Hotel at SATA 2025
-
News1 week ago
Madifushi Private Island named Best New Resort at SATA 2025
-
Featured1 week ago
Minor Hotels to reopen NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort in December 2025
-
Featured7 days ago
Karan Veer Mehra celebrates Bigg Boss success at Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives
-
News1 week ago
Amilla Maldives announces special experiences for Autumn, year-end holidays
-
Action7 days ago
Dive into inspiration: Alessia Zecchini at Sun Siyam Olhuveli
-
Featured7 days ago
Finolhu showcases Maldives’ only PADI Mermaid Instructor Trainer