Featured
Ifuru Island launches exclusive retreats for families and groups
Ifuru Island Maldives has announced the launch of four spectacular island retreats: three 20-Bedroom Family Retreats and the expansive 32-Bedroom Island Reserve, which stands as the largest of its kind in the world. Specifically designed for families and groups seeking extraordinary experiences, these retreats seamlessly blend luxury, comfort, and tropical adventure. Whether guests are looking to relax in style or participate in thrilling excursions, Ifuru Island offers a remarkable getaway for all.
The 20-Bedroom Family Retreats consist of three distinct units: Ocean Retreat Island Reserve, Island Retreat Reserve, and Seaside Retreat Island Reserve. Each unit features five charming duplexes, with two spacious rooms on the upper floor and two on the lower floor, providing the perfect setting for families to reconnect and unwind.
Guests can enjoy the vibrant private outdoor social lounge, which serves as an ideal space for sharing meals, sipping cocktails, and enjoying quality time together. Whether engaging in friendly competitions or exchanging stories over drinks, this retreat fosters the creation of cherished memories. It offers a perfect balance of comfort and togetherness, making it an idyllic choice for family getaways.
For larger gatherings, the 32-Bedroom Island Reserve—featuring the stunning Reef Retreat Island Reserve—caters to every need. Each suite is beautifully furnished to serve as a sanctuary of comfort, allowing guests to relax in style. With breathtaking views and an array of luxurious amenities, the Island Reserve is perfect for big families and groups seeking their own piece of paradise. The expansive living areas, exceptional service, and picturesque surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for creating unforgettable experiences together.
Both retreats come fully equipped with a range of amenities to ensure that every stay is nothing short of extraordinary:
- Welcome Goodies: Guests receive a warm island welcome in every suite.
- Group Transfers: Private domestic transfers for 50 to 60 guests are available for those arriving on the same flight.
- Personal Island Buddy: Each group is assigned a dedicated Buddy to cater to all their needs.
- Family Sunset Cocktails & BBQ: Families can gather for an unforgettable evening in the Sunken Lounge.
- Cocktail & Mocktail Class: Guests can learn to craft their own drinks in a fun and interactive session.
- The Waterfront Lunch & Sunset Hi-Tea: A delightful lunch followed by afternoon tea on the deck is offered for guests to enjoy.
- Choose Your Adventure: Guests can choose between a sunset cruise or a local island excursion.
- Scavenger Hunt: A fun activity that encourages a little friendly competition.
- Wellness Activities: Group yoga or sound healing sessions are available to help guests unwind.
- Sports & Recreation: Guests can participate in beach volleyball or make use of the tennis/multipurpose court.
- Tree Planting Activity: A heartwarming opportunity to give back to the island through tree planting.
- Movie Night: A cozy film night can be enjoyed at the private cinema.
- Photo Session: A 20-minute photo reel session allows guests to capture special moments.
- Laundry Service: Complimentary laundry service for five pieces per room is provided to keep wardrobes fresh.
- Departure Gift: Guests receive a thoughtful memento to remind them of their island getaway.
Located just steps away from pristine sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, these retreats invite guests to explore beach activities, immerse themselves in local culture, or simply relax under the sun.
Whether planning a family reunion, a celebration, or a chance to reconnect, the 20-Bedroom Family Retreats and 32-Bedroom Island Reserve provide the perfect backdrop for laughter, love, and unforgettable experiences.
In addition to these exceptional retreats, Ifuru Island Maldives features 147 sunset suites and villas, 6 dining options—including 2 signature restaurants and 4 bars—offering a 24-hour premium all-inclusive experience. The resort is also home to the Maldives’ first permanent Skydive dropzone, providing a truly unique attraction for thrill-seekers.
Awards
Kuda Villingili listed in Condé Nast Readers’ Choice Awards 2026
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has been nominated in the Resorts category for the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 (UK) and the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 (US), marking a further development in the resort’s international recognition.
The Readers’ Choice Awards are based on traveller feedback and are considered a key benchmark within the global travel industry. The dual nomination reflects the resort’s presence across international markets and its engagement with guests from different regions.
The nomination follows a series of recognitions for the resort. In 2025, Kuda Villingili was ranked among the Top 5 Overseas Leisure Resorts Worldwide in the Condé Nast Traveller Middle East Readers’ Choice Awards, placing fifth globally. It was also listed among the Top Resorts in the Indian Ocean in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 (US). The resort was similarly recognised in the 2024 edition of the awards.
Located in North Malé Atoll, approximately 30 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives offers 75 villas and residences, each with private pools and views of the surrounding ocean.
The resort features eight restaurants and three bars, including Japanese-Peruvian dining at Mar-Umi and Teppanyaki by Mar-Umi. Other dining options include Asian cuisine at East and grill offerings at Fire. Additional facilities include a cigar lounge, a large swimming pool, a spa with overwater treatment villas, and a range of wellness and recreational activities such as yoga, sound therapy and surfing.
Amjad Thaufeeg, Commercial Director at Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, stated that the nominations reflect feedback from guests across international markets and noted the importance of maintaining consistent service standards.
Voting for the Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 is open until 30 June 2026, with results scheduled to be announced in November 2026.
Cooking
Baros Maldives to showcase sustainable dining for Earth Day
Baros Maldives is set to host a curated Earth Day experience titled Earth Day in Bloom on 22 April 2026, offering guests an evening programme centred on sustainability, nature and locally sourced ingredients.
The event will begin at 6:30pm at the resort’s Chef’s Garden, where guests will be welcomed with a Garden Spritz before taking part in a guided tour of the garden. The tour will introduce participants to local herbs and island-grown produce cultivated on the property.
As part of the programme, guests will be invited to plant their own herb, contributing to the garden while engaging in an activity aligned with environmental awareness. The experience will continue with a garden dinner starting at 7pm, featuring a menu designed around fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the island.
An optional pairing of organic wines will also be available, providing an additional element to the dining experience.
The event is priced at USD 175 per person, excluding applicable service charge and taxes. Reservations can be made through the resort’s butler service.
The initiative reflects Baros Maldives’ focus on sustainability-led guest experiences, integrating environmental awareness with culinary offerings and on-island activities.
Awards
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives earns TUI Global Hotel Award recognition
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives has been recognised as a Quality Winner at the TUI Global Hotel Awards 2026, an accolade based on guest feedback from travellers worldwide. The recognition reflects the resort’s delivery of guest experiences shaped by service standards, facilities and alignment with evolving traveller preferences.
Located in North Malé Atoll, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives offers a range of accommodation options, with more than 140 units including overwater suites, beach bungalows and duplex garden bungalows. The resort is designed to accommodate couples, families and groups.
The resort features seven dining venues offering a mix of international and local cuisine. Tex Mex serves Mexican and Spanish-inspired dishes, while Dalchini offers an Indian à la carte menu available for lunch and dinner. Raalhu Bar provides a setting for evening refreshments, with views of the sunset.
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives is also known for Pasta Point, a surf break recognised for its left-hand waves. The resort attracts surfers from international markets who travel to access the location. Surf operations at Pasta Point are managed by Atoll Adventures, with bookings handled through Atoll Travel to ensure a structured approach to surf access.
The TUI Global Hotel Awards are determined by guest reviews, making the recognition an indicator of guest satisfaction. The resort’s inclusion as a Quality Winner reflects its performance in meeting guest expectations within the Maldives tourism sector.
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