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Make unforgettable memories this festive season at Jumeirah Olhahali Island
This festive season, Jumeirah Olhahali Island invites guests to create lasting memories with loved ones through a three-week series of experiences that embody the spirit of the island and warmth of the season. From tree lighting ceremonies to exclusive gala dinners, the all-villa resort’s curated programme promises to elevate and enrich every guest’s holiday moments.
The celebrations start on 18 December with a beachside Christmas tree lighting ceremony, featuring handcrafted canapés, refreshing beverages, and carol singing to set a joyful tone. Following the tree lighting ceremony, those looking to continue the glamorous evening can opt to join an exclusive ‘Taste of Al-Andalus’ dinner, where they will be treated to delicious Spanish cuisine under the Maldivian sky.
Families can share meaningful moments with gingerbread house decoration sessions or chocolate masterclasses, where they will learn to create decadent treats as they lean into the indulgence of the season. For little ones who prefer to spend their time exploring the great outdoors, turtle and dolphin quests await, while those who prefer to stay on land can join a local island exploration, immersing in the Maldivian way of life through an insightful tour.
As Christmas Eve rolls around, guests are invited to dress up for an intimate Christmas cocktail party at Shimmers Beach, followed by a festive gala dinner showcasing Christmas classics alongside a delightful buffet offering cuisines from around the globe. Live entertainment will complete the magical atmosphere as the guests celebrate the joy of the season.
Christmas Day kicks off with a festive brunch and pool party, before families gather on the resort’s beach to extend a warm welcome to Santa himself as he cruises along the turquoise waters, delighting the little ones with wonderous surprises all the way from the North Pole. Those wishing to indulge further can opt for a Sabered & Stirred masterclass at Kayto to discover the art of sabrage while enjoying expertly crafted cocktails, while those who aren’t quite ready to let the festive spirit go will delight in the Boxing Day wine dinner taking place the following day.
As the year draws to a close, Jumeirah Olhahali Island hosts a New Year’s Eve beachside soirée at Fini Maizan, featuring cocktails and canapés as the sun sets. The revelry will then make its way to Glow for an extraordinary gala dinner, with a spectacular feast and captivating live performances against the backdrop of the starry night sky. The mesmerising evening culminates in a countdown as guests ring in the New Year under a dazzling firework display with their nearest and dearest.
For those seeking for a moment of revitalisation after the festivities, the resort’s visiting wellness guide, Dr. Shagnika Pradhan, will be on hand to ensure that guests can unwind amidst the serene surroundings of this island paradise. Available to guests from 24 December to 07 January, Dr. Pradhan brings her expertise in pain and stress management to the island, offering treatments such as acupuncture and sleep enhancement therapies to help guests truly relax this festive season. Alongside Dr. Pradhan’s treatments, the resort also offers a range of wellness and sporting activities, from Tibetan singing bowl sound healing sessions to a tennis tournament that will instil a little competitive spirit in the tropical retreat.
With exceptional dining experiences, wellness offerings and island activities to look forward to, Jumeirah Olhahali Island’s festive programme ensures that every guest can experience the magic of the season while creating lifelong bonds with their loved ones.
Learn more about the resort’s exclusive festive perks here, discover the full programme here.
Featured
Coco Collection brings conservation and low-waste living into resort experience
Coco Collection, a Maldivian-owned resort brand, has invited guests to experience a more conscious approach to luxury at Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu and Coco Bodu Hithi.
Across its two island resorts, Coco Collection has incorporated environmental responsibility into the guest experience through its Coco Cares philosophy. From nature-led experiences inspired by the islands’ ecosystems to culinary offerings based on fresh, locally grown ingredients, the resorts have been designed to reflect the natural setting of the Maldives while integrating sustainability into daily operations.
At Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, this commitment is reflected in the Maldives’ veterinary-led Marine Turtle Rescue Centre, which is operated in partnership with the Olive Ridley Project. As a founding partner of the facility, the resort provides care for injured sea turtles and supports marine conservation awareness. Since its establishment, the centre has treated and released 152 injured turtles, with a rehabilitation success rate of 60%. The resort also continues seagrass preservation efforts aimed at protecting marine habitats and supporting biodiversity in the surrounding waters.
Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu also applies low-waste practices, mindful sourcing, and resource-conscious operations across the resort. This approach extends to Coco Farm, where homegrown produce, handcrafted preserves, and garden-to-table dining experiences are used to bring local flavour and seasonality to the table.
At Coco Bodu Hithi, the same approach is reflected in its food and beverage offerings. To mark Earth Day, the resort has introduced a green-inspired cocktail experience focused on eco-conscious mixology, using fresh ingredients grown on the island.
The resort said its low-waste approach informs all aspects of the guest experience, with attention given to responsible resource use. From the choice of herbs and fruits to preparation and presentation, the offering is intended to reflect respect for the natural environment.
This approach also extends across the resort’s wider culinary programme, which focuses on locally sourced ingredients, house-made preserves, and dishes inspired by the Maldives’ natural produce. Through seasonal menus, conscious sourcing, and resource management, Coco Bodu Hithi aims to offer an experience that combines hospitality with environmental responsibility.
News
Centara Hotels & Resorts Maldives marks Thai New Year across island portfolio
This April, Centara Hotels & Resorts Maldives invites guests to celebrate the vibrant spirit of Songkran, rooted in its rich Thai heritage, in a setting where turquoise lagoons and white sand shores meet time-honoured traditions. As a brand deeply inspired by Thailand’s culture and hospitality, Centara brings the essence of the Thai New Year to its collection of distinctive island resorts, where each celebration reflects authenticity, warmth, and a true sense of togetherness.
Across the Maldives, Songkran is thoughtfully reimagined through immersive experiences that honour these traditions while embracing the natural beauty of the islands, creating moments of joy, connection, and celebration. From family-friendly festivities to intimate beachfront gatherings, each resort offers a unique interpretation of Songkran, where water becomes a symbol of renewal and togetherness, and every experience is curated for you and yours.
At Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, nestled within The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, celebrations unfold in a lively, family-centric atmosphere. Days are filled with playful water activities, beachside games, and vibrant poolside gatherings, while afternoons bring the energy of a colourful Songkran carnival by the sea. As the sun sets, guests are invited to savour the bold and authentic flavours of Thailand through immersive dining experiences, where the spirit of the festival comes alive in a setting designed for shared moments and lasting memories.
At Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, part of The Centara Collection, the celebration embraces both tradition and togetherness. Guests can take part in a vibrant beachfront parade and traditional Thai games, capturing the joyful essence of Songkran against the backdrop of the island’s serene lagoon. As evening falls, the festivities continue with an enchanting Thai-inspired dining experience, complemented by cultural performances and lively entertainment. Younger guests are also invited to join in the celebration through playful and imaginative activities, ensuring a truly inclusive experience for all.
For those seeking an adults-only escape this Songkran, Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives offers a unique take on the celebration. Inspired by the Thai concept of joy and togetherness, the resort brings guests together through light-hearted beachside experiences and playful moments by the sea. Evenings unfold into vibrant culinary journeys and lively entertainment, where music, flavour, and atmosphere combine to create a celebration that is both elegant and spirited.
This Songkran, Centara Hotels & Resorts Maldives presents a celebration that goes beyond tradition, where each moment is an invitation to reconnect, to celebrate, and to create memories that linger long after the festival ends.
News
St. Regis Maldives expands and upgrades Two-Bedroom Ocean Villa
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort has introduced its newly reimagined Two-Bedroom Ocean Villa, thoughtfully redesigned to offer an elevated experience for families looking to balance privacy with shared time together in a pristine natural island setting.

Now expanded from 334 square metres to an impressive 380 metres meters, the villa features an additional 66 square metres of refined indoor living space. This enhancement creates a more generous environment for families to gather, relax, and spend time together in comfort.

The layout has also been thoughtfully arranged, with a master bedroom located on the ground floor offering direct ocean views, while the second bedroom is positioned on the upper level and features two beds—ideal for children or friends travelling together.

Seamlessly blending contemporary design with the surrounding environment, the villa is fully equipped with intuitive iPad controls, allowing guests to personalise lighting, climate, and entertainment at the touch of a button.

At the heart of the transformation is the villa’s outdoor experience. The private pool, previously 15 square metres, has been re-envisioned as a striking 30-square-metre infinity pool, seamlessly extending toward the horizon and framing expansive views of the Indian Ocean. The beachfront has also been enhanced, offering a wider, softer stretch of pristine sand that flows effortlessly from the villa’s deck to the turquoise lagoon beyond.

True to the St. Regis legacy, guests will also enjoy the signature St. Regis Butler Service, ensuring that every detail of their stay is thoughtfully anticipated and effortlessly delivered—from personalised dining arrangements to bespoke island experiences.
Spacious, elegant, and serene, the redesigned Two-Bedroom Ocean Villa with Pool, offers a comfortable and well-balanced setting for families and friends to relax and reconnect, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Maldives.
For more information and details, please visit www.stregismaldives.com.
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