News
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives unveils enhancements, milestones of achievement in third successful year
Kuda Villingili Resort, an award-winning luxury resort and home to the largest pool in the Maldives, has once again enhanced its already opulent offerings. These new features, which include adding pools to the sunset water villas, transforming the resort into an all-pool destination, introducing Teppanyaki dining to its diverse gourmet offerings, and unveiling a brand new padel tennis court, are part of the resort’s vision to continuously enhance the guest experience on the private island.
As Kuda Villingili celebrates three years of luxury hospitality, the resort has redefined time and space for discerning guests with its meticulously designed accommodations, seven exclusive dining options, a world-class surf break and unforgettable guest experiences.
With these exciting upgrades, a stunning 10-meter infinity-edge pool has been added to the existing 16 sunset water villas, offering guests an idyllic spot to relax and take in uninterrupted vistas of the sunset across the Indian Ocean.
Praised for exceptional and diverse culinary experiences, Kuda Villingili Resort is among the handful of resorts offering Nikkei cuisine in the Maldives. The private island’s signature restaurant, Mar-Umi, proudly showcases the exquisite flavours of the Japanese and Peruvian cultural exchange. This year’s enhancements also bring more flavour and sizzle to Mar-Umi, with the addition of a new teppanyaki table accommodating up to eight guests. The menu features sustainably and locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a dining experience that is not only ethically responsible but also incredibly delicious. The resort’s signature restaurant, Mar-Umi, offers a carefully curated Sake collection that perfectly pairs with every dish. The Teppanyaki experience is available for lunch and dinner, offering thoughtfully created set menus.
Sports and recreational enthusiasts will be thrilled to discover a newly added padel tennis court along with the two floodlit tennis courts, volleyball, futsal ground, state-of-the-art gym and an Olympic size pool —an already extensive collection of recreational and wellness options in Kuda Villingili. As a racket sport increasingly popular among luxury travellers, padel tennis offers a comprehensive physical challenge, ideal for a serious two-person workout or an enjoyable family bonding activity.
“At Kuda Villingili, we are committed to enhancing the guest experience by continually responding to ever-changing industry trends and consumer demands, with the goal of exceeding expectations of our discerning guests. By adding spacious outdoor pools to our Sunset Water Villas, we aim to offer guests the ultimate in luxury and privacy,” said Amjad Thaufeeq, Commercial Director of Kuda Villingili Resort, Maldives.
“Additionally, the new Teppanyaki experience provides a uniquely interactive and delectable dining option, making our gastronomic offerings even more exciting than it already is. We look forward to welcoming guests to our island paradise to experience these new redefined facilities creating once in a lifetime memories with their loved ones.”
Reflecting on Kuda Villingili’s remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to excellence, in early 2024 the resort earned the prestigious Green Globe Certification, underscoring its dedication to sustainability practices and community engagement while preserving the natural beauty of the Maldives for generations to come.
In addition to this significant accomplishment, The Fire Restaurant at Kuda Villingili has been honoured with The Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. With the title in hand, it demonstrates Kuda Villingili’s commitment to providing a premium dining experience for guests, as well as the extensive wine options available. Additionally, Kuda Villingili received a nomination for the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2024, highlighting its reputation as a top destination for luxury travellers.
Kuda Villingili Resort consistently surpasses expectations and eagerly awaits the arrival of guests to discover an ever-evolving island paradise, whether it is to relax in private infinity pools with dreamy views, or to venture on a gourmet journey while sipping on award-winning wine collections or to simply rejuvenate on a private island spa.
Family
Sun Siyam Iru Veli curates Easter experience with dining and live entertainment
This Easter, Sun Siyam Iru Veli invites guests to enjoy a magical island programme from April 2nd to 6th, 2026, inspired by shimmering ocean blues and playful coastal elements. Part of Sun Siyam’s Privé Collection, the resort presents a five-day celebration where curated dining, family-friendly activities, wellness moments, and live entertainment come together to create an immersive Easter escape for couples and families alike.
At the heart of the celebration is Easter Day, when the island comes alive with experiences for all ages. Families can enjoy the Grand Easter Egg Hunt and Cocoa & Bunny moments, where little ones can meet and pet bunnies while sipping hot cocoa, while the Magical Splash Pool Party celebration brings together music, refreshments, and a lively island atmosphere. As evening falls, a Special Easter Buffet opens, followed by Wonders of the Ocean—a captivating live performance that brings a sense of magic to the lagoon setting.
The enchanting evening is brought to life through performances by magician Ahmed Shaman. Known for his engaging and interactive style, his work celebrates local talent while adding a sense of wonder to the island. From close-up illusions to playful mind-reading moments, each performance invites guests to become part of the experience, creating memories that feel both personal and unforgettable. His presence reflects the resort’s ongoing commitment to showcasing Maldivian artistry while enriching the guest journey.
Throughout the week, guests can explore a diverse lineup of experiences, including themed international buffets, beachfront lobster BBQ under the stars, cocktail nights, and live music. Younger guests are engaged through creative and playful activities, such as Easter card making, egg painting, kite flying, and musical games. The Ocean Spa welcomes all to unwind with special promotions that aim to bring a soft, seasonal glow to both mind and body. From sandbank picnics to sunset entertainment and wellness-led experiences, Easter 2026 at Sun Siyam Iru Veli invites guests to create lasting memories in a setting shaped by the shimmering lagoons and the rhythm of the ocean.
For more information and to book your Easter escape, please visit Sun Siyam Iru Veli Offers page.
News
TIME recognises Six Senses Laamu among World’s Greatest Places for 2026
TIME Magazine has named Six Senses Laamu to its prestigious World’s Greatest Places of 2026 list, recognising destinations that offer extraordinary experiences, innovation, and meaningful impact around the globe. The accolade highlights the resort’s pioneering marine conservation initiatives and its immersive approach to sustainability-driven luxury in the Maldives.
“Being recognised by TIME as one of the world’s greatest places is an incredible honour for our team,” said Marteyne van Well, Regional General Manager. “Our vision has always been to demonstrate that hospitality and meaningful environmental stewardship can coexist. This accolade celebrates the dedication of our entire resort team, and local community who work every day to protect Laamu’s remarkable ecosystem.”
Situated in the remote Laamu Atoll, Six Senses Laamu is distinguished by its integration of environmental research into the guest experience. Central to this effort is the Sea Hub for Environmental Learning in Laamu (SHELL), a purpose-built marine research centre that hosts resident NGOs and one of the world’s most ambitious resort-based conservation programmes.
Through the creation of the Maldives Underwater Initiative (MUI) in collaboration with different NGOs, the resort has played a key role in reef restoration and marine research across the atoll. Following the global coral bleaching event of 2024, scientists released three million coral larvae grown in on-site laboratories onto damaged reefs while cloning vulnerable coral species to support ecosystem recovery.
The resort also supports groundbreaking research initiatives across the Laamu Atoll. The Manta Trust has catalogued more than 150 individual manta rays in the region and utilises the world’s first underwater contactless ultrasound scanner to monitor pregnant mantas, while the Olive Ridley Project leads critical sea turtle conservation programmes. Ongoing seagrass research has also identified previously undocumented species and confirmed these ecosystems as vital nurseries for reef fish.
A defining element of Six Senses Laamu is how these scientific initiatives are woven directly into the guest experience. Visitors can explore the laboratories and galleries at SHELL, participate in marine conservation initiatives, dive alongside working biologists, and earn specialty diving certifications focused on manta rays and reef ecosystems.
Surrounded by turquoise waters, Six Senses Laamu features overwater and beachfront villas built with sustainably sourced materials and is the only five-star resort in Laamu Atoll, Maldives. The resort continues to serve as a model for how hospitality can support scientific discovery and long-term environmental protection while delivering unforgettable guest experiences.
For more information, please visit the resort’s website.
News
A new approach to family travel at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa
As multigenerational travel continues to shape luxury hospitality, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa offers a considered response with experiences designed for every age group. From duplex villas that provide both shared and private living spaces, to an immersive children’s program and the interactive JW Garden, the resort addresses the evolving needs of modern families. Parents and grandparents are equally prioritised, with serene escapes such as the adults-only infinity pool and dining experiences that elegantly balance family-friendly atmosphere with refined culinary artistry.

Set within the natural beauty of the Shaviyani Atoll, the resort reflects a broader shift towards more intentional, experience-led family travel in the Maldives.

Architectural Harmony for Families
At the centre of this offering are the resort’s duplex villas, meticulously crafted designed to accommodate multigenerational living. Spanning two levels, these villas introduce a natural separation between shared and private spaces, allowing families to gather with ease while preserving individual retreat. Available across both overwater and beachfront settings, each villas features expansive indoor-outdoor living areas, private pools, and panoramic views, creating an environment that feels both spacious and intuitively personal. In a destination often defined by one-bedroom villa concepts, this layout presents a more considered approach to family stays in the Maldives.

Discovery and Education at the JW Garden
Rooted in the resort’s “Stay in the Moment” philosophy, the JW Garden serves as a sensory sanctuary where families can reconnect with nature. Beyond providing fresh, seasonal ingredients for the resort’s kitchens, the garden offers a unique educational platform for younger guests. Through the kids’ program, children are invited to participate in hands-on gardening, learning about local flora and the journey from “Garden to Table”.

Immersive Play for Every Age
At the heart of the family offering, the Family by JW – Little Griffins Kids’ Club presents an immersive underwater-inspired world, complete with its signature pirate ship. A weekly program of over 100 activities encourages creativity and discovery, from pizza and smoothie-making to interactive treasure hunts. Extended opening hours provide flexibility for families, alongside the added benefit of complimentary dining for children.

Beyond the kids’ experience, the resort caters to every generation. A dedicated Teens Lounge, equipped with PlayStation 5, air hockey, and foosball, offers a social space tailored to older children, while adults can retreat to Pool 18, the resort’s adults-only infinity pool. The Horizon Pool, overlooking uninterrupted ocean views, provides a more relaxed setting for families to gather.

Families can explore the island with ease through complimentary bicycles available for both adults and children, encouraging a gentle pace of discovery. The Horizon Pool, overlooking uninterrupted ocean views, provides a relaxed setting for shared moments, while Pool 18, the adults-only infinity pool, offers a more tranquil retreat.

Culinary Journey
Culinary experiences across the resort reflect a balanced approach to family dining, ensuring everyone finds something delightful to savour. Each restaurant features dedicated children’s menus, deliberately curated to include nutritious and appealing options that cater to young taste buds. Dining at our resort is not just about the food, it’s about bringing families together. The menus are curated to offer a range of flavours, from comfort food classics to more adventurous culinary options across the restaurants. One of the most enchanting experiences is the Boduberu night on the beach, where families can indulge in authentic Maldivian cuisine while enjoying traditional drumming. The communal dining setup fosters a festival-like atmosphere, transforming an evening into a cherished family gathering.

“Families today are seeking more than just space, they are looking for meaningful ways to reconnect across generations,” said Mohit Dembla, General Manager of JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa. “Our approach is centred on creating an environment where both shared experiences and personal moments can coexist”.
A Legacy of Island Living
With 60 spacious villas, each featuring a private pool and panoramic views of the turquoise waters. Guests can choose between beachfront serenity or the tranquillity of overwater living. Attentive service by a personal Thakuru (butler), ensuring every detail is tailored to their needs. Additionally, guests are also invited to explore the natural beauty of the island by bicycle, encouraging unhurried discovery across the island’s lush pathways.
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