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Maldives media, tourism officials discover new RAAYA by Atmosphere

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Atmosphere Core highlights RAAYA by Atmosphere, a stunning property located in the beautiful Raa Atoll in the northern Maldives, which has recently been the focus of a special visitor experience for Maldivian media and tourism representatives.

The island RAAYA is a natural wonder in itself and shares an intriguing backstory that lies at the heart of every intrepid travellers. The story of RAAYA begins with Seb, an artistic sailor who washed up on the island shore after a fierce storm, sent his ship off course leaving him stranded on this stunning natural paradise. Seb dedicated himself adapting to castaway life and learning from what mother nature has provided. Today, Seb’s adventurous spirit is reflected in every aspect of RAAYA’s exceptional experience, from unique dining to the artistic activities and creative adventures, all woven together with subtle storytelling.

To share the story of RAAYA, this epic journey and life on the island for our artistic hero, Atmosphere Core recently invited their local media and tourism delegates to experience RAAYA by Atmosphere first hand. Distinguished attendees included representatives from the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI), Maldives Insider, Hotelier Maldives, Travel Trade Maldives (TTM), International Maldives Travel Market (IMTM Online), Maldives Halal Travel, and Travelution Media.

This visit allowed Maldivian media and tourism marketers to experience the island’s unique features and reconnect with island life through Seb’s art and installations. One of the standout experiences was the Dhoni building and painting workshop. This hands-on activity held special significance, as it was inspired by Seb’s desire to preserve his memories through arts and crafts. During his time on the island, sought to document his journey by capturing it in pictures, ensuring that others could connect with and understand his story. This meaningful activity is followed by the Raaya Ritual – a symbolic Dhoni race that represents both the beginning and the end of Seb’s extraordinary journey on the island.

The dining experiences shared were exceptional, deeply rooted in Seb’s sustainable practices. Cultivation of his own food from scratch, starting with seeds he collected from plants. This legacy continues, as the seeds he left behind are now for anyone to use from Seb’s farm, reflecting his enduring connection to the island.

The nature walk through the island’s lush mangrove trees offered a glimpse into the ‘circle of life’ Seb observed during his time here. This journey through nature was more than a walk, it was an exploration of Seb’s profound relationship with the environment that nurtured him.

Lastly, the group observed the watchtowers that Seb constructed around the island, and which ultimately played a crucial role in his eventual rescue. These towers stand as a testament to his resourcefulness and determination, marking key points in his survival story.

Seb’s installations are scattered throughout RAAYA, each revealing a part of his story for visitors to discover and explore, which our local representatives experienced throughout their stay. These experiences provided deeper understanding of Seb’s journey and the unique charm of RAAYA, making the visit both enriching and memorable.

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Kandolhu Maldives introduces new villas and gastronomic journeys

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Kandolhu Maldives has announced a new season of island experiences, highlighting the resort’s refurbished Deluxe Ocean Pool Villas and a series of exclusive dining collaborations with internationally acclaimed chefs. The resort aims to offer guests opportunities to rediscover its intimate setting through refreshed accommodation and elevated culinary events.

The newly enhanced Deluxe Ocean Pool Villas, each spanning 120 sqm, have been designed with relaxation and comfort in mind. The villas now feature a spacious bedroom, a light-filled bathroom with a deep oval bathtub overlooking the Indian Ocean, and a private deck furnished with sun loungers and a sun umbrella. A new 23 sqm private pool has also been added, alongside a hammock suspended above the water, offering uninterrupted ocean views.

The resort has also introduced a line-up of exclusive dining events, bringing together Michelin-starred chefs and distinguished winemakers. These collaborations, hosted at Olive restaurant, combine fine cuisine with curated wine pairings, promising immersive gastronomic experiences.

  • 3 October 2025: Chef Bernd Bachofer will present a degustation menu combining Japanese, Southeast Asian, and French haute cuisine. The evening will be paired with vintages from New Zealand’s Schubert Wines, led by winemaker Kai Schubert. Chef Bachofer, awarded a Michelin star in 2015, brings decades of expertise from renowned kitchens in Germany and Switzerland.
  • 23 November 2025: The Kandolhu culinary team, headed by Chef Justin, will prepare a five-course Mediterranean dinner paired with Stonefish wines. Wine expert Peter Papanikitas will guide guests through each course, providing insights into the pairings.
  • 3 December 2025: Michelin-starred Chef Theodor Falser will craft contemporary interpretations of Italian cuisine in a five-course dinner for just 14 guests. Each course will be paired with fine Italian wines, offering an intimate dining experience.

Kandolhu’s Island Hosts, Claudio Stupan and Luciana Codiferro, commented, “Our vision has always been to create a space where guests feel both completely relaxed and deeply inspired. With refreshed villas and new culinary journeys ahead, we are proud to offer an experience that truly reflects the spirit of Kandolhu.”

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Bavarian traditions meet island living at Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s Oktoberfest

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Sun Siyam Olhuveli has announced that it will host its own take on Oktoberfest from 1 to 5 October 2025, bringing one of the world’s most recognised celebrations to a tropical island setting. The resort will combine Bavarian traditions with Maldivian hospitality, offering guests a week-long programme of music, food, and festivities.

A highlight of the event will be a performance by international DJ twins Kristina and Anna Grushina. With a strong global following of more than two million on social media and chart-topping success on Spotify, the sisters are renowned for their high-energy sets that transform any stage into a vibrant dance floor. Their performance on the resort’s beachfront is expected to be a key feature of this year’s festival.

Alongside live music, the festival will present German brews and themed culinary experiences inspired by Oktoberfest. Guests will be able to enjoy Bavarian-style dishes alongside a selection of hops and lagers served beachside. To add to the atmosphere, family-friendly activities and games will be organised throughout the resort, creating a spirit of connection and celebration in an island environment.

“We are excited to bring together international music talent, authentic gastronomy, and our island’s natural beauty in this celebration,” said Hassan Adil, General Manager of Sun Siyam Olhuveli. “Every year, Oktoberfest and many other celebrations at Sun Siyam Olhuveli continue to highlight culture, community, and entertainment in a way that is unique to our resort and to the Maldives.”

The five-day festival will not only celebrate Oktoberfest but also demonstrate Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s ability to host immersive experiences that blend international entertainment with the relaxed lifestyle of the Maldives. Guests staying at the resort during this period will experience a beachfront festival of music, cuisine, and festivities designed to leave a lasting impression.

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MU Maniku, key architect of Maldives tourism industry, dies

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Mohamed Umar Maniku (MU Maniku), a key figure in the establishment and growth of the Maldives tourism industry, has died in Singapore. He passed away on Saturday while in intensive care at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, where he had been receiving medical treatment for about a month.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Universal Enterprises announced:

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mohamed Umar ‘M.U.’ Maniku on 30th August 2025 at 0630 hrs Singapore time in Mount Elizabeth Hospital, Singapore. As Chairman of Universal Enterprises, he will forever be remembered as a pioneer whose vision, loyalty and integrity were felt by generations of industry professionals, who will remember him with deep affection and respect. He had been an integral part of the inception and growth of the tourism industry in the Maldives. We remember a man whose legacy cannot be confined to a date or a place.”

“To those close to him, M.U. Maniku was a guiding light. He was the steady hand that led Universal Enterprises through decades of change, and a mentor for many. He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren and extended family. The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to all who have offered support and condolences during this difficult time.”

Maniku was part of the group that opened Kurumba Maldives in 1972, the country’s first resort, widely regarded as the starting point of the modern tourism industry in the Maldives.

As Chairman and a principal shareholder of Universal Enterprises/Universal Resorts, Maniku oversaw the development of a portfolio that has included properties such as Kurumba, Kuramathi, Baros, Velassaru, Kandolhu, Milaidhoo and Huvafen Fushi.

Beyond the Maldives, he also served as Chairman of Mahaweli Reach Hotels PLC in Sri Lanka from 2012, reflecting the group’s cross-border hospitality interests.

Maniku chaired the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI), which was formed in 1982 to represent resort owners and operators and to engage with government on policy and sector development. Under his leadership, MATI became a key platform for industry coordination and dialogue.

Contributions and legacy:

  • Pioneering market entry (1972): Helped establish Kurumba and proved the commercial viability of resort tourism in the country.
  • Resort development: Guided Universal’s expansion into multiple resort segments, supporting destination diversification and supply growth.
  • Institution-building: Long-time chairmanship of MATI, fostering private-sector collaboration on standards, training and policy.
  • Regional footprint: Leadership roles in hospitality ventures beyond the Maldives, including Mahaweli Reach Hotels.

Maniku had been hospitalised in Singapore for several weeks prior to his passing; local media had reported his transfer to intensive care at Mount Elizabeth Hospital.

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