News
Embrace wellness in paradise: Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives hosts World Wellness Weekend
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives is set to participate in the 8th annual World Wellness Weekend from September 20th to September 22nd, 2024. This global event, celebrated across 8,000 venues in 160 countries, invites wellness enthusiasts worldwide to treat September as a new beginning for transformation and rejuvenation after the summer season.
The weekend’s program has been carefully designed to reflect the core pillars of wellness: Sleep & Creativity, Nutrition & Immunity, Movement & Vitality, Mindfulness & Serenity, and Purpose & Solidarity. Each activity is crafted to promote balance and overall well-being, providing guests with a holistic rejuvenation experience.
At The Restaurant, a special Health Haven breakfast buffet will be served each morning, featuring a selection of nutritious foods and beverages. The thoughtfully curated menu will include fresh, wholesome options aimed at boosting immunity and energising the body, setting the tone for the day’s wellness-focused activities.
The weekend will kick off with a 5K walkathon, welcoming participants of all ages to get active and enjoy the outdoors. Following the walk, a recovery zone will be set up offering wellness treatments such as M2D Blading, Massage Therapy, and an insightful session led by a speaker who will emphasise the importance of self-care. This talk aims to inspire guests to prioritise their health and nurture both body and mind.
As the first day comes to a close, guests will partake in a gratitude exercise and journaling session designed to encourage reflection on the things they are thankful for, fostering a positive mindset and a deeper sense of fulfillment.
Jonathan Dungog, a highly accomplished fitness professional and wellness advocate, will lead the sessions. With extensive certifications in Yoga, HIIT, TRX, and OCR training, Jonathan is recognised for his expertise in a wide array of disciplines. As a seasoned triathlete, ultra-marathoner, and adventure enthusiast, he brings years of personal training experience to the resort. Jonathan’s dedication to holistic health is evident through his work at Fit and Flow Gym, where he empowers individuals on their wellness journeys. At Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, he will share his knowledge and enthusiasm, encouraging guests to embrace lasting well-being and vitality.
Day 2 of World Wellness Weekend will feature an energetic Aero Boxing class, offering fitness and fun for participants of all skill levels. Fitness consultations will also be available, where attendees can receive personalised advice on exercise routines, nutrition, and setting achievable wellness goals, ensuring a sustainable approach to health and fitness.
In addition, guests can take part in a unique gardening and hydration station, where they will have the opportunity to plant and nurture their plants, fostering a connection with the environment. Refreshing drinks and energy bars will be provided to keep participants energised throughout the day. A restorative yoga session will follow, helping guests relax and unwind.
On Sunday, September 22nd, the day will begin with a Mat Pilates class, a low-impact workout focusing on core strength, flexibility, and alignment, suitable for all fitness levels and aimed at improving posture and overall body awareness.
After Pilates, a functional training session for adults will concentrate on exercises that enhance strength, balance, and flexibility. A cooking demonstration by The Restaurant’s culinary team will teach guests how to prepare delicious and healthy meals for themselves and their families.
The day will conclude with an aqua aerobics class, accompanied by energising music, designed to improve strength, balance, and flexibility. The exercises will focus on movements that enhance daily activities, ensuring practical benefits beyond the workout.
Children will also have their own fun-filled schedule at the Kuda Fiyo Kids Club, featuring activities such as Dance Yoga, Aero Kickboxing, Balloon Tennis, Aqua Zumba Marathon, Gratitude Jars, Mini Olympics, Nature Walk, Fun Run, and a Kids Beach Clean-up Day. These activities are both enjoyable and educational, fostering a love for wellness and nature in a playful environment.
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives invites guests to join this extraordinary World Wellness Weekend and embrace September as a fresh start. The event offers a unique blend of relaxation, rejuvenation, and holistic health in the stunning surroundings of the Maldives.
News
Cinnamon Maldives updates book direct offer to let guests choose tailored experiences
Travellers continue to return to the Maldives in search of clear lagoons, warm hospitality and meaningful experiences that reflect both the destination and their personal interests. As visitor expectations evolve, research shows a growing preference for stays that feel tailored rather than standardised. A recent Mews survey reports that 68% of travellers prefer personalised experiences instead of generic rewards, with even stronger interest among Gen Z and affluent travellers.
Recognising these preferences, Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts Maldives has refined its Book Direct value offering. The updated structure allows guests who book directly to select two curated experiences from each resort’s personalised list while also receiving resort credits for stays of three nights or more. This credit can be used across dining, wellness and recreational activities, giving guests the freedom to shape their time on the island according to their interests and pace.
Members of Cinnamon Discovery, the brand’s loyalty programme, can access an expanded set of Book Direct benefits based on their membership tier. Silver members may select two experiences, Gold members may select three experiences and Platinum members receive all experiences listed at the resort they book.
- Four course dinner by the beach
- Island hopping adventure
- Dolphin safari
- 45 minute spa treatment
Resort credit available: USD 150 per room per stay for bookings of three nights or more
- Four course dinner by the beach
- Balinese massage
- Island hopping adventure
- Guided swim and snorkel session
Resort credit available: USD 100 per room per stay for bookings of three nights or more
Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives
- Sunset fishing
- Island hopping adventure
- Sparkling bottle of beverage
- 1 hour double kayak experience
Resort credit available: USD 100 per room per stay for bookings of three nights or more
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon
- Four course dinner by the beach
- Balinese massage
- Sunset fishing
- Dolphin safari
Resort credit available: USD 100 per room per stay for bookings of three nights or more
For more information on Book Direct benefits, detailed terms and eligibility, guests are encouraged to visit Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts.
Cooking
Chef Frank Fol leads plant-based culinary programme at ananea Madivaru Maldives
ananea Madivaru Maldives is hosting Chef Frank Fol, founder of We’re Smart World and a recognised figure in plant-based gastronomy, for a dedicated culinary programme aimed at strengthening and refining the resort’s plant-based dining concepts.
Chef Fol is visiting the island from 8 to 14 December, working closely with the culinary team to develop and enhance plant-forward offerings across the resort’s dining experiences. The programme focuses on integrating contemporary plant-based techniques with locally relevant ingredients and presentation styles, aligning with evolving guest preferences for balanced and conscious dining.
As part of the visit, an internal tasting menu is scheduled to take place, bringing together Chef Fol and the resort’s senior leadership. During the session, Chef Fol will present a selection of plant-forward dishes developed throughout his stay, offering insight into his culinary philosophy and approach to modern vegetable-led cuisine.
ananea Madivaru Maldives stated that the collaboration is intended to support the continued development of its food and beverage concepts, with a particular emphasis on broadening high-quality plant-based options available to guests across its restaurants.
Following the tasting session, the resort will issue a formal press release outlining the programme outcomes, including details of the dishes, concepts, and future plans. Visual assets and supporting media materials will also be made available as part of the official announcement.
The visit forms part of ananea Madivaru Maldives’ wider efforts to evolve its culinary offerings in line with global dining trends while maintaining a strong focus on quality, creativity, and guest experience.
Featured
Kuramathi Maldives announces private wellness programmes with Imron Zulfikar
Kuramathi Maldives has announced the arrival of esteemed holistic wellness practitioner Imron Zulfikar, who will undertake an exclusive residency at the resort from 15 December 2025 to 3 January 2026. During this period, guests will have the opportunity to participate in bespoke wellness experiences crafted by a recognised expert in integrative health.
Throughout his residency, Imron will conduct a series of private wellness sessions designed to restore balance, promote renewal, and enhance long-term wellbeing. His practice brings together ancient therapeutic traditions and contemporary fitness science, resulting in personalised programmes that support harmony, mobility, and emotional resilience. Signature offerings include:
- Watsu Water Healing Journey: A restorative treatment conducted in warm water, combining elements of shiatsu, massage, and gentle movement to release deep tension, soothe the nervous system, and foster a sense of tranquillity.
- Chakra Balance Therapy: A holistic session that aligns mind and body through crystal healing, guided meditation, and calming massage techniques.
- Meridian Deep Release Massage: A therapeutic blend of deep tissue massage and acupressure aimed at easing chronic tension, improving flexibility, and stimulating energy flow.
- Accu Glow Facial: A rejuvenating facial incorporating acupuncture and customised skincare to activate collagen production, detoxify the skin, and enhance natural luminosity.
- Oriental Slim Detox Massage: A treatment grounded in Traditional Chinese Medicine, combining acupuncture and massage to promote lymphatic drainage and support detoxification.
Imron is an accomplished wellness lifestyle coach and holistic fitness specialist with more than ten years of experience in acupuncture, tension release therapies, yoga, Pilates, and personal training. His integrative methodology nurtures physical alignment, emotional balance, and overall vitality.
He has worked with numerous luxury resorts and an impressive roster of high-profile clients, including Serena Williams, Emma Watson, Richard Branson, and members of the UAE Royal Family. Celebrated for his intuitive approach and refined technique, Richard Branson has previously referred to Imron as having “golden hands.”
Kuramathi Maldives looks forward to offering guests this exceptional opportunity to engage in transformative, individually tailored wellness experiences during Imron’s residency.
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