Drink
Lily Beach Resort & Spa receives Wine Spectator’s 2024 Award of Excellence
Lily Beach Resort & Spa has announced that the resort’s fine dining experience at AQVA Restaurant – Les Turquoise D’Aqua, has won Wine Spectator’s 2024 Award of Excellence this year.
The restaurant was awarded for meeting the criteria, which included having at least 80 selections of wines featuring a well-chosen assortment of quality producers. This award further strengthens the stance of Lily Beach’s attention to quality and detail in terms of offerings to elevate its Platinum Plan (All-Inclusive Meal Plan).
It was awarded after careful consideration and meeting criteria that include a set of wine lists featuring a well-chosen assortment of quality producers and a thematic match to the menu in price and style. Whether compact or extensive, focused or diverse, these lists deliver sufficient choice to satisfy discerning wine lovers.
At Les Turquoise D’Aqua, guests can access the Platinum Plan wine selection, which was meticulously curated to offer a balanced and sophisticated array of choices. Careful consideration was given to sourcing wines that pair harmoniously with the menu while showcasing a range of regions and styles to cater to diverse palates. This selection includes both prestigious and approachable options, reflecting the commitment to quality and enriching the dining experience for guests.
Guests can choose from an all-inclusive collection of carefully selected references or explore our wine cellar for some of the most delicate and exceptional vintages outside the meal plan. The menu at Les Turquoise D’Aqua showcases the finest quality through a harmonious blend of fresh produce and meticulous preparation. Here, couples can cherish quality time together in a romantic ambience under the stars, turning their dream holiday into an unforgettable experience.
Speaking about the win, General Manager Laurent Driole said, “We are incredibly proud to receive this esteemed recognition from Wine Spectator, especially as we celebrate our 30th anniversary. This award is a testament to our entire team’s hard work and dedication. Our goal with the wine selection was to curate a diverse and refined collection that perfectly complements our exquisite culinary offerings and enhances the overall dining experience. We aimed to provide our guests with a selection of wines that feature both classic favourites and unique vintages, ensuring that every bottle contributes to an unforgettable dining experience. This award celebrates our past achievements and inspires us to continue delivering excellence in every aspect of our service.”
Overlooking the infinity pool and the exquisite sparkling lagoon beyond, this restaurant offers a sense of calm and serenity like no other. Located on the more serene end of the island, Les Turquoise D’Aqua is an adults-only establishment that offers fine dining and indulging for adults looking for that perfect date night whilst at the resort. Under the star-studded skies, listening to the gentle waves and overlooking the breathtaking views of the ocean, the only additional ingredient to this would be an incredible meal, which the restaurant offers.
Enhancing the exceptional dining offerings, Les Turquoise D’Aqua provides a magical outdoor dining experience. Set beside a star-lit infinity swimming pool; this venue allows guests to dine under the stars as the lagoon transitions through 50 shades of blue, adding to the romance and allure of the evening. Executive Chef Michele Antonio has curated an exquisite fine-dining menu, and we occasionally feature visiting star chefs who bring additional diversity and flavours to our culinary repertoire. The indoor dining room also includes a Teppanyaki table where the dining experience becomes a captivating show. This enchanting setting, combined with our dining experiences, creates an unforgettable atmosphere for our guests.
Enjoy exceptional fine dining paired with exquisite wine, designed to not only satisfy your hunger but also offer a comprehensive sensory delight. This unparalleled dining experience is best enjoyed under the enchanting moonlit skies of the Maldives.
Lily Beach is one of the first resorts to introduce the All-Inclusive concept and, therefore, takes immense pride in our award-winning Platinum All-Inclusive Plan.
Drink
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef marks World Cocktail Day with sustainable cocktail experiences
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, part of the Privé collection within the House of Siyam, marks World Cocktail Day with a transformative celebration of Green Mixology blending creativity with a deep-rooted commitment to environmental stewardship with additional engaging activities.
The resort’s beverage philosophy centres on a zero-waste approach, where every ingredient is utilised to its full potential. Guests are welcomes to observe the sophisticated discipline of the bar team as they transform overlooked elements into artisanal accents, such as dehydrating organic citrus peels in-house to create fragrant, sustainable garnishes. By replacing industrial imports with these handcrafted touches, the sanctuary ensures that every drink remains an authentic reflection of its iridescent surroundings. Guests can join the expert bar team for immersive mixology lessons to master these sustainable creations firsthand.

In addition to traditional favourites, these liquid creations highlight a dedicated Island-to-Table ethos, incorporating seasonal greens and herbs harvested directly from the resort’s flourishing gardens. The celebration was further elevated by a spectacular Flair Bartending Show, showcasing technical precision and artistry in motion, choreographed to the energy of the island.

Each curated experience at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef invites guests toast to a future of mindful indulgence, where the luxury of the moment is perfectly balanced with the preservation of the surrounding environment.
Drink
W Maldives unveils The Wavemaker Edit with global talent collaborations
W Maldives has launched The Wavemaker Edit, a new ongoing series of curated collaborations with international talent, aimed at introducing a range of guest experiences across mixology, wellness, cuisine and music.
The series is designed as a rotating programme, with each edition bringing a different creative perspective to the resort. According to W Maldives, the initiative is intended to create a continuing calendar of experiences that combine social, cultural and wellness-led elements.
The first edition of The Wavemaker Edit will run from 3 to 14 June 2026 and will feature two themed chapters, titled Island Alchemy and The Restore Ritual.
Island Alchemy will focus on mixology. On 3 June, Kwok will lead a guest shift at SIP, presenting three cocktails that explore contrast and balance, including a bespoke creation inspired by the Maldives. The collaboration will continue on 6 June at WET Deck, where a poolside day party will feature a curated cocktail menu.
The second chapter, The Restore Ritual, will centre on wellness and movement in recognition of Global Wellness Day. Led by Mumbai-based yoga and movement educator Samiksha Shetty, the programme will include sessions focused on breathwork, mindfulness and alignment-based practice.
The wellness programme will include Sunset Yoga sessions at FIRE Beach on 12 and 14 June, as well as a morning meditation session at AWAY Spa on 13 June. The main event within this chapter will take place on 13 June, when guests will be able to join a Sunset Yoga session aboard the Horizon Yacht. This bookable experience will also include healthy refreshments and a 60-minute massage at AWAY Spa.
W Maldives said future editions of The Wavemaker Edit will expand into culinary, music and art-led experiences under a number of themed series, including Flavors Unscripted, Sound Wave and Make A Scene.
Commenting on the launch, General Manager Amila Handunwala said the initiative reflects the resort’s approach to continuously evolving the guest experience through collaborations with international talent.
W Maldives is positioning the series as part of its broader effort to offer more structured and experience-led programming for guests. In addition, the resort is promoting its Original Wavemaker package, which includes seaplane transfers and a half-board meal plan for two adults with a minimum stay of four nights.
Drink
Thomas Ling returns to The St. Regis Maldives for two-day sake series
This October, guests of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort are invited to immerse themselves in the refined world of Japanese gastronomy as Thomas Ling, Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador and internationally acclaimed sake authority, returns for an exclusive two day sake experience celebrating culture, craftsmanship, and culinary artistry.
Curated on the secluded shores of Vommuli Island, the experience offers discerning traveler intimate access to one of Japan’s most respected voices in the world of Nihonshu, set against a backdrop of pristine natural beauty and serene seclusion.
Conferred by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan as a Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador—an honour shared among a select circle of global culinary luminaries including Nobu Matsuhisa and Tetsuya Wakuda—Thomas Ling has further received the Ambassador’s Commendation Award from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. With more than 24 years of refined expertise, he is celebrated for his dedication to promoting Japan’s “Kokushu,” the national collective heritage beverages of sake, shochu, and awamori, while safeguarding the cultural traditions that define them.
This collaboration forms part of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort’s Tastemaker Series, which brings together influential global talents to one of the Maldives’ most captivating private island destinations. The programme continues to define the resort as a place where creativity, excellence, and cultural expression converge, offering guests rare opportunities to connect with leading voices across culinary arts, fine wine, mixology, wellness, and sport.
A Curated Programme of Japanese Artistry
The experience begins on 5 October with an intimate Sake Masterclass hosted at T•Pan, the resort’s refined Japanese dining venue. Designed for a maximum of just 12 guests, the complimentary session offers an in depth exploration of premium sakes, guided by Ling’s expert commentary on brewing techniques, regional expression, and cultural significance.
The programme begins on 5 October with an intimate Sake Masterclass at T•Pan, hosted by Thomas Ling. Taking place from 15:00 to 16:00, the complimentary experience is limited to 12 guests, offering a rare opportunity to explore premium sakes through expert insight into craftsmanship, regional expression, and cultural significance.
On 6 October, guests are invited to indulge in a meticulously curated four course Sake Pairing Dinner at Orientale, where contemporary Japanese cuisine is elevated through thoughtful pairings that enhance flavour, texture, and balance. Designed as a one night only experience, the evening celebrates harmony between dish and drink in the spirit of true omotenashi.
The Four Course Sake Pairing Dinner will be served from 19:00 to 22:30, priced at USD 295++ per person.
For more information and details, please visit www.stregismaldives.com.
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