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Angsana Velavaru reaffirms commitment to sustainability, cultural heritage, local economy

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At Angsana Velavaru, an all-inclusive premium resort in the virtually untouched South Nilandhe Atoll sustainability and cultural preservation are woven into the fabric of daily life. The resort’s journey, driven by passion and dedication, begins with a simple yet profound question: “What if dried coconut leaves could find new life? Can they breathe new purpose to the local community?”

Part of Banyan Group, an independent, global hospitality company with purpose, Angsana Velavaru honours Maldivian heritage and protect the environment, by embarking on the unique initiative, ‘The Life Cycle of Coconut Leaf.’ This starts with planting coconut trees on the resort and trimming their leaves regularly. Partnering with local communities, the resort transforms these discarded leaves into beautiful thatched roofs known as kajan.

Guided by the Group’s ethos, “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People”, the cycle begins with lush, green coconut palm trees that provide shade and beauty to the resort. As leaves naturally die, they turn brown, becoming a potential resource rather than waste. Skilled climbers carefully harvest dead leaves, promoting new growth and maintaining tree health. Collected leaves are stored to dry and harden, preparing them for traditional weaving. Local artisans collect the aged leaves, ready to transform them into functional kajan roofing. The resort buys the processed leaves, supporting local artisans and preserving traditional skills. The kajan is delivered to the resort, carrying the essence of Maldivian craftsmanship. The thatched panels are installed on villa roofs, blending tradition with natural aesthetics. Old thatched roofs are carefully removed for repurposing, minimising waste. The removed kajan is composted, enriching the soil with nutrient-rich organic matter. The compost is used to plant new coconut trees, completing the cycle of renewal. Through this initiative, we create a cycle of renewal that supports local communities, preserves cultural practices, and nurtures our environment.

Nominated in Travel Trade Maldives 2024 under the Most Sustainable Resort category and South Asian Travel Awards 2024 under the Leading Eco-Friendly Hotel / Resort, Angsana Velavaru emerges as a frontrunner in showcasing an unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices. The resort’s initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint, conserve natural resources, and protect the biodiversity of the Maldives through Marine Talk, Citizen Science Snorkelling, Coral Planting, House Reef Cleanup and beyond, are exemplary – setting a standard for responsible tourism.

In July 2023, the Green Sustainability Team, composed of passionate associates from various resort departments, launched the “SustainLinen Tote Bag with Purpose” initiative. This program, aimed at reducing plastic waste, provided eco-friendly alternatives to disposable plastic bags for resort associates. By September 2023, the initiative was expanded to include neighbouring communities and in-house guests.

In April 2024, the resort took this initiative further by repurposing broken umbrellas into stylish and durable tote bags. This innovative step underscores their commitment to sustainability, demonstrating how even unexpected items can be transformed and given new life.

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Taj Exotica introduces Sol & Sea, a new celebration of Indian coastal cuisine

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Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives has introduced Sol & Sea.

Perched elegantly above the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, Sol & Sea is an exclusive overwater dining destination at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives, offering an intimate culinary journey inspired by the rich coastal traditions of India.

Thoughtfully designed for only 16 guests, this refined dining experience combines uninterrupted sunset views, bespoke service, and the soulful flavours of India’s coastline in a setting defined by understated luxury and island serenity.

At Sol & Sea, the art of the traditional Indian coastal thali is elevated through sophisticated presentation and carefully curated regional flavours. Drawing inspiration from the coastal kitchens of Indian Western Coastline each menu celebrates the richness of Indian spices, the freshness of ocean harvests, and the depth of authentic culinary heritage.

As twilight settles over the lagoon and the horizon glows in hues of gold and amber, guests are invited to savour an immersive dining experience surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Maldives. Every detail — from the gentle sea breeze and candlelit ambience to the thoughtfully paired flavours — has been designed to create moments of connection, indulgence, and lasting memory.

Elegant, intimate, and destination-led, Sol & Sea offers a distinctive expression of luxury dining where the warmth of Indian hospitality meets the timeless beauty of the ocean.

Experience highlights:

  • Exclusive 16-seater overwater dining venue
  • Signature Indian Coastal Thali experience (Vegetarian & Non-Vegetarian option)
  • Curated sunset dining atmosphere
  • Personalised and intimate guest experience
  • Ideal for couples, honeymooners, and celebratory occasions
  • Elevated luxury dining concept unique to the Maldives

As the sun sets over the Indian Ocean and the evening unfolds beneath the stars, Sol & Sea invites guests to discover a soulful expression of coastal India surrounded by the serenity of the Maldives.

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Mandara Spa joins Global Wellness Day’s 15th anniversary celebrations

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As Global Wellness Day celebrates its 15th anniversary under the theme #JoyMagenta, Mandara Spa proudly joins the global movement in reaffirming a belief that has long shaped its philosophy: wellness is not simply a ritual of self-care, but a meaningful expression of joy, balance, and human connection.

On Saturday, 13 June 2026, millions of people across more than 170 countries will come together to celebrate Global Wellness Day, the internationally recognised not for profit initiative dedicated to inspiring healthier and more mindful living. This year’s theme, #JoyMagenta, highlights the importance of joy as an essential part of emotional and physical wellbeing.

For Mandara Spa, this milestone carries a deeper significance. For fifteen years, Mandara Spa has grown alongside Global Wellness Day, united by a shared belief that wellbeing is found not only in treatments and rituals, but in the simple human moments that restore connection, presence, and joy.

Since the movement’s early years, Mandara Spa has embraced the spirit of Global Wellness Day through experiences designed to encourage restoration, mindfulness, and genuine care. What began as a shared philosophy has evolved into a longstanding alignment rooted in accessibility, intentional living, and holistic wellbeing.

Inspired by the healing traditions of Asia, Mandara Spa continues to bring these values to life across its destinations throughout the Maldives, Indonesia, and the wider Asia Pacific region through thoughtfully curated wellness journeys that nurture both body and spirit.

In celebration of Global Wellness Day 2026, participating Mandara Spa locations across the region will introduce curated wellness experiences and thoughtful guest activations inspired by this year’s #JoyMagenta theme.

From mindful movement sessions and wellness rituals to restorative spa experiences and moments of quiet reflection, each initiative is designed to encourage guests to reconnect with themselves and embrace joy as an essential part of wellbeing.

At Mandara Spa, joy is found in the smallest details: a calming breath, a healing touch, a peaceful pause, or the feeling of being fully present in the moment.

“Wellness, at its heart, has always been deeply connected to joy. As Global Wellness Day marks its 15th anniversary, we celebrate not only an important global milestone, but also a shared belief that caring for ourselves and others remains one of life’s most meaningful experiences,” said an official from Mandara Spa.

Founded in 2012 by wellness visionary Belgin Aksoy, Global Wellness Day has grown into one of the world’s most recognised wellness initiatives, inspiring millions through free and accessible wellness activities held annually around the globe.

Mandara Spa is honoured to continue supporting a movement that champions wellbeing as a universal need rather than a luxury, while encouraging individuals and communities to embrace healthier and more mindful lifestyles.

As wellness continues to evolve globally, Mandara Spa remains committed to delivering experiences rooted in authenticity, care, and the timeless traditions of Asian wellness.

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W Maldives launches Escape Remix for a two-sided island getaway

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W Maldives has unveiled Escape Remix, a new stay experience designed for guests seeking to experience different sides of island life, from the tranquillity of overwater living to the laidback glamour of a beachfront escape.

Available from June 2026 onwards as a permanent offering, Escape Remix allows guests to move between the Superior Overwater One-Bedroom Villa and the Escape Beach One-Bedroom Villa within one curated island getaway.

Created for travellers seeking variety without compromise, the experience includes a four-night stay split between two nights in the overwater villa and two nights in the beach villa. It also includes daily buffet breakfast for two adults and a selection of signature island benefits, giving guests distinct perspectives of the destination while maintaining comfort and luxury throughout their stay.

At the centre of the experience is the opportunity to discover the Maldives from two different settings. Suspended above clear lagoon waters, the Superior Overwater One-Bedroom Villa offers ocean views, direct access to the sea, a private pool, and a W Maldives signature overwater hammock designed for leisurely afternoons above the Indian Ocean. Guests can also access the resort’s award-winning house reef directly from the villa deck, where marine life can be explored just moments from their accommodation.

On shore, the Escape Beach One-Bedroom Villa offers a more barefoot island rhythm. Surrounded by tropical greenery and direct beach access, the villa features a private pool and an elevated upper deck with a swinging daybed for golden-hour lounging. Guests staying beachside can also access the same award-winning house reef directly from the shoreline, creating a connection between island living and underwater discovery.

“Luxury travel today is about having the freedom to experience a destination in different ways, all within one journey,” said Amila Handunwala, General Manager of W Maldives. “Escape Remix was created for guests who want to fully immerse themselves in the Maldives while experiencing contrasting yet complementary experiences, from the serenity of overwater living to the lively energy of a beachfront escape, all infused with the bold spirit of W Maldives.”

Beyond the villas, Escape Remix includes a series of additions designed to enhance the stay. Guests receive complimentary soda refreshments from the in-room MixBar, complimentary use of snorkelling gear, access to non-motorised water sports, and a one-time 30-minute photoshoot with the resort’s in-house photographer, including one printed photograph.

Following its recent transformation, W Maldives continues to position itself within the contemporary luxury segment through design, immersive experiences, and a social island atmosphere. Guests can dine across the resort’s five restaurants and bars, unwind with treatments at the overwater AWAY Spa, or take part in a castaway experience at Gaathafushi, the resort’s private island.

As a five-star resort in the Maldives known for its distinctive personality and approach to luxury, W Maldives continues to expand its guest experiences beyond the conventional island stay.

Blending overwater tranquillity with beachfront freedom, Escape Remix introduces a new way to experience W Maldives, offering guests a more dynamic and personalised stay. Travellers looking to extend their visit can also book the Original Wavemaker package, which includes shared seaplane transfers and a half-board meal plan for two adults.

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