News
Experience magic of ‘Tales From The Golden Hour’ at The Nautilus Maldives this festive season
This festive season, The Nautilus Maldives invites guests to celebrate with a unique blend of ultra-luxury hospitality and free-spirited charm. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Indian Ocean, guests can experience unscripted dining, intimate celebrations, and bohemian-style New Year festivities under its enchanting theme.
Unveil the Magic: “Tales from the Golden Hour”
This year’s festive programme at The Nautilus is all about those moments of pure magic when the light is just right, and everything seems possible. Whether you’re toasting to the setting sun, sharing stories by the bonfire, or dancing under the stars with your loved ones, The Nautilus promises a festive season filled with golden and transformative memories.
Gastronomic Adventures Like No Other
This festive season, guests can indulge in personalised tastings at Zeytoun, discovering an eclectic array of flavours from around the globe, featuring curated rum, whisky, champagnes, and cheeses. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the Gaja degustation dinner, presenting an exquisite exploration of Piemonte and Langhe district wines, paired with authentic Mediterranean culinary masterpieces. One evening will be dedicated to the earthy richness of truffles through creatively crafted dishes that celebrate this precious ingredient.
For a truly extravagant affair, guests can join an extravagant Champagne dinner, where each course is expertly paired with the prestigious Dom Pérignon champagne, promising an evening of opulent culinary indulgence. At Ocaso, guests can discover the true essence of sustainable dining with our ocean-to-table delights, relishing in the freshest, locally caught seafood, meticulously prepared to highlight its natural flavours. Another exceptional dining experience is an exclusive Japanese dinner at Ocaso, perfectly paired with curated Sake.
Glowing Christmas Celebrations and Bohemian New Year’s Eve Bash
A candlelit Christmas Eve Gala Dinner will feature our chefs’ culinary magic, and Santa Claus will make a special appearance at Naiboli beach, bringing surprises and joy to our youngest guests. The Nautilus will ring in the New Year with a bohemian flair. The New Year’s Eve celebration is a vibrant affair, beginning with a golden hour cocktail party at The Nautilus’s deserted private island close by, where guests are taken by a private yacht for a shimmering soirée of 2024. As the sun sets over the horizon, a lavish dinner under the stars awaits, accompanied by an eclectic blend of live music and entertainment at its best. As midnight approaches, a spectacular fireworks display will illuminate the night sky, marking the arrival of the New Year with wonder and excitement.
Transformative Spa Rituals
Guests can discover unparalleled tranquility with The Nautilus’ Serenity of Twilight Aerial Yoga, where gentle expert guidance helps them flow from cocoon-like poses to butterfly-inspired movements, leading to a state of complete calmness and inner wellbeing. The Butterfly Transformation Ritual, featuring a revitalising Golden Sugar scrub, an Omorovicza Rose Quartz massage with gold-infused ylang-ylang oil, and a Gold Hydra Lifting Facial, will leave their skin luminous and provide a profound sense of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Golden Memories For All
The Nautilus is perfect for travellers dreaming of a romantic escape, solitude seekers, and families seeking moments of togetherness. Couples can indulge in private dinners and carefully crafted holistic spa treatments that promise a transformative experience. Meanwhile, families can enjoy a variety of children and family activities tailored for all ages, ensuring a magical festive experience for everyone.
To discover the magical ‘Tales from the Golden Hour’ of The Nautilus, visit https://www.thenautilusmaldives.com/tales-from-the-golden-hour. Contact The Nautilus at hello@thenautilusmaldives.com to reserve your unforgettable ultra-luxury bohemian escape.
Family
Masters of the skies: Tom Kerss joins The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands for Easter 2026
This Easter, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands welcomes award-winning astronomer Tom Kerss as part of its 2026 Masters of Crafts programme. Taking a break from hunting auroras across the northern hemisphere, the master of the skies travels south in search of the original Easter bunny: Lepus the Hare. From the Maldives’ unique vantage point–offering views of both northern and southern constellations – Tom Kerss will guide guests across the galaxies, uncovering lesser-known constellations and the legendary stories behind them.
A former astronomer at the Royal Observatory Greenwich and Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, Kerss has become one of the world’s leading voices in observational astronomy and astrotourism, widely recognised for making complex astronomical concepts both accessible and deeply inspiring. Kerss has guided thousands in witnessing the Northern Lights and other rare celestial phenomena including spectacular eclipses. His expeditions and lectures inspire a new generation of sky-watchers and his bestselling books—including Northern Lights, Diamonds Everywhere and Unknown Universe—have captivated readers worldwide.

A calendar of celestial activities at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands will open guests’eyes to the wonders of the night sky from one of the world’s most breathtaking ocean settings. Adults and children will enjoy exclusive experiences on land and water, from guided telescope stargazing and astrophotography workshops using smartphones to capture stunning celestial images, to talks and lectures from a storied sky explorer, alongside interactive sessions for junior stargazers at Ritz Kids.
Throughout the festive season, the search will be on for Lepus the Hare, one of the most under- appreciated constellations. Found beneath Orion’s feet, Lepus is home to a host of fascinating galaxies, as well as the Spirograph Nebula and Globular Cluster M79. On land, and brought to life by the prolific children’s illustrator of Tom’s books, Anni Betts, guests will catch glimpses of Lepus across the island resort, from the magical Mystique Garden to its Culinary Island. Thought to be the origin of the Easter Bunny, folklore legend tells of Ostara, the ancient Germanic goddess of spring, who transformed a bird frozen in the winter snow into a radiant hare. In devotion to the goddess, the enchanted creature laid luminous, coloured eggs in honour of her festival—a symbol of renewal, wonder and the magic of the season.

Calendar highlights from April 4–12 include:
- Exclusive open-sky, planetarium-style stargazing and starlore sessions on the beach, where guests will explore incredible star patterns— from amazing animals and brilliant birds to monsters and monster-slayers—alongside the science, history and myths surrounding them.
- Open-water stargazing aboard the resort’s yacht, paired with a Champagne reception, offering a serene perspective of the stars from the tranquillity of the ocean.
- Astrophotography workshop–With its remote location and access to a large portion of the southern sky, the Maldives offers exceptional astrophotography opportunities. Using professional-grade cameras and smartphone techniques, guests will capture their own stunning celestial images.

In conversation with Tom Kerss:
- Seven Wonders of the Sky, Tom introduces seven of the most breathtaking events that captivate astronomers around the world, including the Northern Lights, total solar eclipses, great comets and more. From periodic wonders to how these phenomena fuel the growing world of astro-tourism.
- The Moon & You: Guests will discover the profound ways the Moon has shaped humanity, from cultures and calendars to our very DNA. From myth-busting to developing a deeper appreciation for Earth’s natural satellite, guests will also have the rare opportunity to touch a real piece of the Moon.
- Diamonds Everywhere: Drawn from Tom’s bestselling book of the same name, this visually striking talk explores some of the 101 astronomical curiosities featured. How thin are Saturn’s rings? Where did the Big Bang happen? Are there really diamonds everywhere? An inspirational journey designed to spark wonder long into the night.
For the little ones:
- Sky Safari–A journey through the stars to discover animals among the constellations, from exotic creatures to household pets. Tom will test junior guests’ animal knowledge while revealing the strange and wonderful facts and faces of historical star charts. (Ages 5+)
- We Are Stargazers–Exploring how stargazing shaped civilisation, this session shows how ancient cultures embedded their stories and values into the sky. Using simple tools, children will uncover remarkable sights offering clues about the cosmos—and ourselves. (Ages 7+)
The Easter celebrations will bring days of indulgence to fuel the resort’s starry stories. On the April 4 a Gala Dinner hosted at the design masterpiece EAU Bar, curated by the resort’s stable of exceptional chefs, will bring together signature dishes from all culinary corners of The Ritz- Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands’, from Cantonese, Lebanese, Italian, Japanese to local Maldivian flavours.
Little ones will revel in a traditional Easter egg hunt on Easter Sunday, with an Easter carnival on the April 8 bringing the seasonal celebrations beachside at sundown, while on the April 10 a starlight concert dinner delivers a treat for all senses with live music performed from an overwater stage at the resort’s insta-famous circular EAU Bar.
For more information, visit ritzcarlton.com/Maldives.
Family
JOALI BEING brings colour, movement and renewal to Easter 2026
This Easter, JOALI BEING — the transformative, well-living island in the Maldives — invites guests to embrace the vitality and beauty of colour through its 2026 theme, “Colours of Renewal”. Taking place from 1 to 12 April 2026, the programme draws inspiration from the joy, freshness and energy that colour brings to life, encouraging guests of every generation to reconnect, move freely and celebrate meaningful moments together.
In the lead-up to Easter, the island will spotlight family connection through its pre-Easter campaign, “The Wonder of Us: A Family’s Well-Living Journey” — the final chapter in the Joyful Journeys of Well-Living video series. Centred on shared rituals and joyful movement across generations, the campaign sets an emotional foundation for the celebratory days ahead.
Throughout the Easter season, colour will be thoughtfully expressed across the island — woven into design, nature, culinary artistry and immersive experiences as a symbol of harmony, renewal and joyful transformation. Rooted in the Joy of Well-Living, Colours of Renewal ignites uplifting experiences designed to foster togetherness, vitality and discovery.

Easter highlights include:
Celebrity Fitness Coach – Joe Wicks
Well-living comes alive in motion with acclaimed guest expert Joe Wicks MBE. The renowned fitness coach will lead uplifting, family- and teen-friendly sessions — from beach conditioning and CORE circuits to DJ-powered fitness nights and Junior Power Camp by the sea.

The Transformative Power of Breath – Carlos Aparicio
Returning practitioner Carlos Aparicio will present his transformative Biocuántica sessions throughout April, guiding guests towards brain–heart coherence and inner balance. He will also lead 9D Breathwork — an immersive, neuroscience-led sound and breathing experience designed to encourage emotional release and deep renewal.

Joyful Movement, Play & Family Connection
An expanded Easter activity programme invites families to connect and celebrate vitality together, with highlights including:
- Kids Dance to the Beat – A high-energy movement session blending dance and simple exercise circuits to build endurance, strength and mobility in a playful way.
- Muay Thai Training – An energising session focused on strength, coordination and controlled technique.
- Easter Egg Decorating – A creative culinary experience where children decorate their own chocolate Easter eggs before tasting their sweet creations.
- Family Sushi Masterclass – A hands-on culinary experience designed for shared creativity.
- Easter Sunday Feast – A celebratory dining experience bringing families together to mark Easter with seasonal flavours.
- Easter Party – Hop into a world of colour and joy with a festive celebration filled with games, interactive activities and delightful seasonal treats, capturing the spirit and magic of Easter for guests of all ages.

“This Easter, we celebrate the joy of colour not only as something beautiful we see, but as something meaningful to feel together,” says General Manager Graeme Freeman. “Colours of Renewal is a celebration of togetherness — a time to move, create, laugh and reconnect across generations. Through shared moments of play, creativity and mindful discovery, families can embrace joyful energy while gently restoring balance and harmony. At JOALI BEING, these are the moments that stay with you long after the journey ends — where hearts feel lighter, bonds grow stronger, and the true spirit of well-living is discovered, together.”
The Easter programme brings this philosophy to life through thoughtfully curated experiences — from immersive therapies and movement sessions to culinary masterclasses and vibrant family celebrations — each designed to nurture vitality, creativity and meaningful connection.
A stay at JOALI BEING is a transformative escape where guests return home feeling lighter in body, mind and spirit. Villas start from USD 3,162 per night for two guests sharing an Ocean Pool Villa on a B&B basis. For full details on JOALI BEING’s festive programme, please visit the resort’s website. For bookings and further information, kindly contact reservations.being@joali.com.
Action
Sun Siyam Olhuveli invests in staff wellbeing with upgraded sports facilities
Sun Siyam Olhuveli has unveiled newly upgraded volleyball and futsal grounds for team members, reaffirming its commitment to employee wellbeing while advancing responsible, future-focused operations. The renovated volleyball grounds were officially inaugurated on 14 February, while the upgraded futsal ground opened earlier this year—together creating dedicated spaces for recreation, connection, and healthy competition across the island.
Designed to encourage regular physical activity and camaraderie beyond the workplace, the improved sports facilities represent a thoughtful investment in social infrastructure. They reflect a belief that wellbeing is fundamental to long-term performance, nurturing morale, teamwork, and a strong sense of belonging among team members.

Alongside these developments, the resort has implemented NO BIN DAY every Tuesday, a practical initiative aimed at minimising food waste across operations. By encouraging mindful planning and responsible consumption, the initiative challenges teams to rethink habits around food—transforming sustainability into a shared, everyday discipline.
“Taking care of our people and the environment must go hand in hand. By investing in spaces that support our team’s wellbeing and introducing simple disciplines like NO BIN DAY, we are building a culture where responsibility is lived every day—naturally, collectively, and with purpose,” said Hassan Adil, General Manager of Sun Siyam Olhuveli.

Both initiatives form part of Sun Siyam Care, the group’s corporate social responsibility platform, and align with the Social Infrastructure and Responsible Consumption and Production pillars under the GDS framework. Together, they reflect a people-first approach to sustainability—where everyday actions create lasting impact for teams, operations, and the wider community.
Sun Siyam Care is committed to creating a positive impact for people, communities, and the environment through responsible operations, social investment, and long-term sustainability actions across its destinations in the Maldives and Sri Lanka.
Guests are encouraged to learn more about these initiatives by visiting the Sun Siyam Care website at sunsiyam.com/sun-siyam-care.
-
News1 week agoThe Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands launches conservation programme for environmental observances
-
Cooking1 week agoWomen at heart of kitchen: Milaidhoo Maldives marks International Women’s Day through gastronomy
-
Action1 week agoAtmosphere Foundation launches annual dive training scholarship for Maldivians
-
Family1 week agoEaster goes playful at The Standard, Maldives with week-long Angry Birds celebration
-
Entertainment1 week ago‘One festival, every sense’: Fari Islands Festival announces August 2026 return
-
Drink1 week agoSO/ Maldives hosts tequila tasting and Lazuli Bar takeover for National Margarita Day
-
Featured1 week agoAncient banyan tree anchors spiritual experiences at Machchafushi Island Resort
-
Awards6 days agoBandos Maldives earns Booking.com Traveller Review Award 2026


