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Story of Maldivian elegance: Festive season to remember at Milaidhoo Maldives

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Discover an elegant season of magic at Milaidhoo Maldives, inspired by the rituals, traditions and festive feasts of Christmas and New Year. The end of year season provides a cherished pocket of time where stories are shared, friendships are made and families are united.

Guests will enjoy a festive season full of Milaidhoo Moments that live forever. From 22 December and through the New Year, the resort has put together a festive programme that will delight every visitor.

The Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony on 22 December marks the start of the resort’s festive celebrations. Guests are invited to join in this memorable occasion filled with twinkling lights, festive cheer and Christmas Carols.

Christmas Eve festivities on 24 December, begin with a celebratory cocktail reception at Compass Beach, followed by an elegant dinner with all the trimmings at Ocean Restaurant complete with live music. On Christmas Day, the morning begins with an indulgent champagne breakfast at Ocean Restaurant, while Santa’s arrival heralds the magic of the festive season.

Guests will experience the magic of New Year’s Eve under the stars with a beachside cocktail reception and lavish gala dinner featuring a live band and midnight fireworks at Ocean Restaurant. On New Year’s Day, a late brunch loaded with exquisite dishes will be available for a new beginning.

All the festive season feasts, created by the resort’s talented team of chefs led by Executive Chef Ken Gundu, are a regale of family, community and connection and are infused with modern twists on festive traditions. The culinary team has planned daily celebratory meals including wine pairing dinners, beach and sandbank barbeques, themed fiestas, and seafood and champagne dinners.

Couples and families can engage in a MasterChef Challenge, enjoy wine tastings from old and new worlds, join cocktail making classes and explore the unique flavours of Maldivian cuisine with a hands-on traditional cooking class, inspired by the spice route. Guests can also catch fish the traditional Maldivian way and enjoy their fresh catch at dinnertime served with the recommendation of the chef.

Milaidhoo is deeply rooted in its rich heritage and the festive season is opportune to immerse our guests in a variety of activities that highlight the local culture. From indulging in traditional afternoon tea to learning the rhythms of local music and listening to enchanting myths and legends, each experience is designed to connect guests with the soul of the Maldives. The island curates meaningful, culturally rich experiences, ensuring that guests leave not only rejuvenated but enriched by authentic connections to the local traditions.

Free from the hustle and bustle of their lives, guests are encouraged to spend time with loved ones over the holiday season. Milaidhoo’s Festive Programme embraces slow living which translates into a serene getaway, where time appears to stand still, allowing guests to truly savour the tranquillity of the present moment.

Mindful experiences include Detox Yoga; purifies the mind and body through mindful movements, breathwork, and relaxation techniques. Walking Meditation: a mindful practice that blends movement and awareness to cultivate inner peace. Candle Mediation; trataka practice boosts concentration and memory. Chakra Awakening: focused Root Chakra sessions enhance mental clarity. Pranayama Session: guided breathwork enhances vitality and well-being.

The rising sun symbolises new beginnings and, in this spirit of renewal, the resort has planned several experiences that begin at dawn. Guests can join the Milaidhoo Family for an invigorating sunrise jog, enjoy the tranquil waters with a guided kayak tour and set sail on a sunrise champagne cruise. Experienced yogis and beginners can enjoy Hatha yoga sessions combined with meditation which take place at first light to awaken energy and mental clarity. Early morning snorkelling excursions reveal the magical house reef, and for a special treat, guests can indulge in a sunrise breakfast on a sandbank.

Guests are encouraged to write their own stories forged through moments of discovery. There are numerous opportunities this festive season for guests to create personal memories that connect deeply with the marine environment. Ranging from first-time scuba dives, deep sea fishing adventures, bioluminescence night snorkelling excursions and swimming with turtles. Families can also plant a Christmas tree in our underwater coral garden and contribute to the thriving growth of marine life.

This festive season, guests are assured of a Maldivian elegant story at Milaidhoo.

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The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives to introduce refreshed villas, dining and wellness facilities

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The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives, by Hyatt bringing The Standard’s signature spirit to Hyatt, is getting ready for its next chapter with a series of enhancements designed to bring even more colour, character and ways to experience island life to the resort. Combining The Standard’s signature playful spirit with Hyatt’s renowned hospitality expertise and commitment to delivering exceptional luxury resort experiences, the resort is introducing refreshed villa interiors, new dining concepts, expanded family programming, upgraded recreational facilities and enhanced wellness offerings. Together, these developments reinforce a guest experience that is both unmistakably The Standard and elevated through Hyatt’s global standards of service and operational excellence.

Set on Huruvalhi Island in the Raa Atoll, the award-winning resort pairs bold design and an easy-going island energy with a thriving house reef, turquoise lagoons and plenty of reasons to get out on the water. Recognised with accolades including Best Beach Resort at the TTM Awards 2026 and Best Family Resort at the Global Destination Awards 2026, the upcoming enhancements build on that spirit, giving guests more ways to make the island their own — whether that means chasing the next adventure, lingering over a long lunch, getting creative with the kids or switching off somewhere above the lagoon.

A Fresh Look for the Villas

The resort’s beach and overwater villas will receive refreshed interiors, bringing a brighter, more contemporary feel while keeping the playful personality that makes The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives distinctly its own. Thoughtful design updates will create a renewed sense of comfort and connection to the island, with interiors that open naturally onto the surrounding blues, palms and tropical landscape. The result is less about traditional island luxury and more about having your own colourful, comfortable hideaway — somewhere to sleep, swim, play and, ideally, stay a little longer than planned.

More Ways for Little VIPs to Play

There will be even more for younger guests to discover, with expanded programming at Lil’ Shark Kids Club, an enhanced Art Hut, a new Outdoor Adventure Zone and a dedicated Teen Lounge game room. Designed with curiosity and creativity in mind, the new additions will give little travellers more opportunities to get hands-on with island life, from making and creating to getting outside and exploring. It is The Standard’s take on a kids’ club: playful rather than prescriptive, with plenty of room for young guests to make new friends, try something different and come home with stories of their own.

And while the kids are busy, parents can make the most of the resort’s restaurants, bars, beach, wellness experiences and everything else that makes spending a week on a private island feel like a very good idea.

A New Kind of Reset at The Standard Spa

Wellness at The Standard Spa is getting a little more interesting. The experience takes guests through a considered circuit of hydrotherapy, steam, infrared sauna, cold plunge and infinity pool, creating a personalised journey to reset, recharge and restore balance. Rather than simply adding new facilities, the enhanced concept brings them together as part of an immersive wellness experience designed to help guests move, pause, recharge and feel good.

Alongside the circuit, three personalised wellness journeys — Healing & Relaxation, Recovery & Reset, and Movement & Balance — give guests the freedom to choose what they need from their time at the spa. Whether it is slowing down, recovering after a day in the sun, getting the body moving or simply finding a better balance, each journey is designed around the experience rather than a one-size-fits-all treatment menu.

And because wellness at The Standard has never been about taking things too seriously, guests can embrace it in their own way. Start the day with sunrise yoga, enjoy an ocean-facing treatment, brave the cold plunge, move through the contrast circuit or simply spend a long afternoon doing absolutely nothing.

Set above the Indian Ocean, The Standard Spa is evolving into an overwater wellness centre where facilities, movement and personalised experiences come together — creating a new way to reconnect, recharge and, most importantly, feel good.

New Drink and Dine Venues

Expanding the resort’s culinary experiences, The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives will introduce an exclusive Chef’s Table dining experience, offering guests a more intimate and immersive way to connect with the destination through food. Set in a refined and interactive setting, the experience will showcase thoughtfully curated menus, seasonal ingredients, and creative culinary techniques, allowing guests to engage directly with the chefs while enjoying a personalised journey designed to celebrate flavour, craftsmanship, and storytelling.

Adding to the resort’s social scene, the all-new Castaway Bar, located on the picturesque standalone Baby Island in the middle of the Maldives ocean, will serve as a relaxed gathering spot ideal for enjoying spectacular sunsets or lingering over an after-dinner nightcap. Surrounded by pristine beaches and panoramic lagoon views, the venue will offer handcrafted cocktails, light bites and a laid-back atmosphere that celebrates the carefree spirit of island living. Meanwhile, the resort’s beloved beachfront dining venue, currently known as BBQ Shak, will be reintroduced as The Beach Grill. The refreshed concept will continue to showcase grilled specialities and fresh seafood while delivering an enhanced beachfront dining experience inspired by the beauty and flavours of the Maldives.

Pickleball, Anyone?

Adding another reason to get moving, The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives will introduce its first pickleball court, bringing one of the world’s fastest-growing sports to the island. Whether guests are seasoned players or picking up a paddle for the first time, the new court offers an easy-going way to stay active, rally with friends and embrace a little friendly competition — all with a tropical island backdrop. The addition complements the resort’s existing tennis court, giving racket sports enthusiasts even more ways to stay active during their island escape. Because at The Standard, working up a sweat can be just as much fun as cooling off afterwards.

“Great hotels should never stand still. The enhancements at The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives are about evolving the experience while keeping the personality that makes the resort unmistakably The Standard. From refreshed villa interiors and new ways to play and unwind, to expanded programming for families and new wellness experiences, we’re creating more reasons for guests to connect with the island and with each other. It’s an exciting next chapter for Huruvalhi — one that brings a fresh sense of energy to the resort while staying true to its playful, social and wonderfully unconventional spirit,” said Amar Lalvani, President & Creative Director, Hyatt Lifestyle Group.

Set to launch in Q4 2026, the enhancements mark an exciting new chapter for the resort, bringing fresh energy, experiences and reasons to return to Huruvalhi while staying true to the playful, social spirit and distinctive island character of The Standard. Explore the resort and plan a stay for your family.

Click here to explore exclusive offers & plan your stay now.

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Sheraton Maldives launches festive offer with up to 20% savings on stays

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This festive season, trade winter’s chill for sunlit shores, turquoise waters, and celebrations surrounded by the natural beauty of the Maldives. Set on the lush tropical island of Furanafushi, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa invites guests to embrace the holidays through its Festive Special Offer, a thoughtfully curated escape where exceptional dining, island adventures, and meaningful moments come together in paradise.

Available for stays from December 20, 2026, to January 10, 2027, the offer brings together the pleasures of a tropical getaway with the warmth of festive celebrations. Guests can enjoy up to 20% savings on room rates, full-board dining, complimentary shared speedboat transfers, and special privileges designed to make every moment of the holiday feel effortless.

Families can also enjoy added value, with children aged 11 and under staying and dining for free when sharing accommodation with their parents.

A Culinary Journey for Every Occasion

At Sheraton Maldives, the festive experience unfolds one memorable meal at a time. Mornings begin at Feast, where a generous buffet breakfast, freshly prepared juices, aromatic coffee, and a selection of teas set the tone for the day ahead. Lunch invites guests to explore a three- course à la carte selection at selected restaurants, with an enticing variety of Mediterranean, Indian, Mexican, and Asian-inspired flavors.

As the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, evenings offer a choice between a vibrant buffet dinner at Feast and a three-course à la carte experience at selected dining venues. To make the occasion even more special, adults receive up to USD 45 dining credit to discover the authentic Thai cuisine of Baan Thai or the refined seafood creations and ocean-to-table flavors of Sea Salt.

Island Adventures, Balanced with Moments of Indulgence

From the moment guests arrive, the holiday unfolds at an unhurried island pace. Complimentary shared speedboat transfers from Velana International Airport ensure a seamless journey to the resort, where days can be spent discovering the island’s natural beauty and embracing the spirit of adventure.

Guests can take to the lagoon on a kayak or paddleboard, explore vibrant marine life while snorkeling, or enjoy a friendly match on the tennis court. For moments of pure relaxation, Shine Spa for Sheraton offers 15% savings on selected treatments, inviting guests to slow down, recharge, and find their own sense of tropical tranquility.

Whether it is a family gathering beneath the palms, a romantic sunset shared over exceptional cuisine, or the simple pleasure of waking up to the ocean, every experience offers an opportunity to make the season truly personal.

Make This Festive Season Your Own

At Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, the holidays are more than a change of scenery. They are an invitation to reconnect, discover new experiences, and create traditions in a setting where the natural beauty of the Maldives meets the warmth of genuine hospitality.

Guests are invited to book their festive escape by November 15, 2026, and celebrate the season with sun-drenched days, memorable dining, and moments to treasure long after the holidays have passed.

For reservations and further information, email Sheraton.Maldives@sheraton.com or discover the offer here.

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ELE|NA recognised for excellence in wellness hospitality at SATA 2026

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ELE|NA has been named Leading Wellness and Spa Brand at the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2026, recognising the Maldives-based wellness brand’s contributions to the hospitality and wellness industry across the region.

The recognition comes as wellness continues to become an integral part of luxury hospitality, with ELE|NA working alongside resort partners to develop and operate wellness facilities that combine therapeutic experiences, trained professionals and operational expertise.

Guided by its Wellness Your Way™ philosophy, ELE|NA incorporates wellness into different aspects of the guest experience. Its six Pillars of Vitality – TouchFlow, ReFine, BodyFit, SoulVibe, SleepSync and FoodDelight – encompass therapeutic treatments, physical activity, emotional wellbeing, restorative sleep and nutrition. The framework allows individual resorts to develop wellness programmes tailored to their locations and guest preferences.

In addition to providing wellness experiences, ELE|NA works with hospitality partners on concept development, spa operations, therapist training and service delivery. Its operational model combines the individual characteristics of each resort with standardised systems and procedures aimed at maintaining service consistency across its properties.

Sustainability also forms part of the brand’s operations. All ELE|NA properties in the Maldives have received Platinum Sustainable Wellness Accreditation, recognising their approach to responsible spa operations, environmental management and community wellbeing.

The brand also invests in professional development through the ELE|NA Wellness Academy, which provides training programmes for therapists and wellness professionals. The academy combines traditional therapeutic practices, practical training and contemporary wellness knowledge to support professional development and strengthen service standards across the industry.

The recognition at SATA 2026 comes as ELE|NA continues to expand its operations beyond the Maldives, extending its wellness concepts and services into India, Nepal and other emerging hospitality destinations.

With wellness increasingly influencing travellers’ accommodation choices and holiday experiences, ELE|NA continues to focus on integrating wellness services into resort operations while supporting the development of trained professionals and sustainable practices within the hospitality sector.

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