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OV Traveller Club unveils new era of regenerative luxury

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On November 18, 2024, Patina Maldives hosted a memorable evening as OV Holidays unveiled its new identity as OV Traveller Club. The rebranding marked a significant evolution, reflecting a commitment to sustainability, luxury, and meaningful connections, encapsulated in the new motto: “Discover Yourself.”

The evening commenced with opening remarks from Emma, Strategic Partnership Manager, who welcomed guests and introduced the themes of transformation, sustainability, and the vision behind OV Traveller Club. Her speech offered insight into the journey that led to the rebranding.

Ellice, the Chief Operating Officer, elaborated on this transformation during her keynote address. She highlighted how the brand, initially focused on bespoke luxury travel, became a preferred choice for global celebrities, royal families, and discerning travellers from regions such as the Middle East. However, challenges in the evolving travel industry, including market saturation and compromised service quality in the Maldives, prompted OV Traveller Club to chart a new course. This transformation focused on exclusivity, sustainability, and exceptional service. Ellice also acknowledged the pivotal role of Shafraz Fazley, Founder and Managing Director, whose vision and leadership laid the groundwork for this evolution. Fazley’s dedication to innovation and excellence was instrumental in shaping the strategic direction of OV Traveller Club.

Dr. Nisha Abu Bakar, Director of OV Traveller Club, delivered an impactful address on the growing trend of conscious travel and the importance of integrating luxury with sustainability. She underscored the brand’s mission to combine ecological preservation, cultural sustainability, and luxury experiences. This vision aligns with the Maldives Fifth Tourism Master Plan 2023–2027 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Dr. Nisha pointed to the pandemic as a transformative moment for the travel industry, shifting travellers’ perspectives and emphasising the need for “conscious paradise” destinations. OV Traveller Club embraces this shift by offering purpose-driven journeys that balance nature, culture, and sustainability. She described the brand as a custodian and architect of tomorrow’s paradise, dedicated to delivering transformative travel experiences without compromising luxury.

The evening also featured the introduction of initiatives such as “Gentle Footprints,” showcasing OV Traveller Club’s dedication to regenerative tourism—leaving destinations in better condition than they were found. Dr. Nisha detailed key strategies such as reducing carbon footprints, wildlife conservation, supporting local communities, and promoting cultural sustainability. These efforts align with global sustainability standards, including GSTC indicators, and support local initiatives to enhance sustainable tourism practices.

The brand’s commitment to education and inclusivity was also emphasised. Initiatives include customer education programs, staff development, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) commitments. OV Traveller Club aims to leave a positive legacy by fostering meaningful engagement, mentorship workshops, local employment, women’s empowerment in tourism, and cultural preservation.

Dr. Nisha concluded by emphasising the brand’s goal of achieving not just sustainability but regenerative sustainability, aiming to create improved environments for communities and travellers while promoting slow, authentic travel experiences as a cornerstone of modern tourism.

Guests participated in a coral planting session led by Patina’s marine biologists, reflecting OV Traveller Club’s dedication to marine conservation. The evening concluded with a beachside BBQ, vibrant cultural performances, and reflections on the partnerships that have been instrumental in the brand’s success.

The launch of OV Traveller Club marks a bold new chapter in luxury travel, prioritising meaningful connections, sustainability, and excellence. By aligning with both national and global goals, OV Traveller Club is setting new standards for luxury tourism in the Maldives and beyond.

Awards

Lily Beach Resort & Spa wins Leading F&B Resort at South Asian Travel Awards 2025

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Lily Beach Resort & Spa has been recognised as the Leading F&B Resort at the South Asian Travel Awards 2025, held in Colombo. The accolade reinforces the resort’s position as a destination where culinary excellence is at the heart of every guest experience.

Central to the resort’s success is its renowned Platinum All-Inclusive Plan, a comprehensive concept that offers guests access to a range of premium experiences. The plan includes à la carte dining across several speciality restaurants, unlimited premium wines and spirits, French Champagne such as Taittinger, themed buffets, private dining experiences, and selected excursions. Designed to elevate each stay, it allows guests to indulge fully without additional charges.

Lily Beach offers an array of distinctive restaurants and bars:

  • Lily Maa, the main restaurant, features extensive buffets and live cooking stations.
  • Tamarind presents refined Indian-Thai fusion cuisine in an elegant overwater setting.
  • AQVA serves light fare and cocktails in a relaxed beachfront atmosphere.
  • Teppanyaki delivers interactive Japanese dining, combining artistry and theatre.
  • Les Turquoise d’Aqua provides a fine dining experience under the stars.
  • The Spirit Bar, set beside the ocean, offers a tranquil space for sundowners and late-night drinks.
  • Vibes combines a family-friendly pool, games area, and evening entertainment.

The resort’s culinary achievements have earned it continued recognition. In 2024, Lily Beach received the Wine Spectator Award for its exceptional wine cellar and sommelier programme, further affirming its place among the world’s leading resort dining destinations.

General Manager Laurent Driole expressed pride in the achievement, noting: “This award is a tribute to the vision, dedication, and artistry of our F&B team. Every menu, drink, and moment is crafted to delight, and to offer our guests a culinary journey as exceptional as the Maldives itself.”

The award for Leading Food & Beverage Resort is seen as a reflection of the passion and commitment of Lily Beach’s entire culinary team. Under the leadership of Executive Chef Alessio Biondi and F&B Director Adam Shareef, dishes are prepared using the finest ingredients sourced globally, ensuring guests enjoy the highest standards of quality. Their commitment to creativity and innovation means that every visit offers something new—both for first-time guests and returning visitors.

Equally vital to this success are the service teams who bring warmth and personality to each dining experience. Their genuine care and hospitality create a relaxed, homely atmosphere that embodies the essence of Lily Beach—a place where guests feel welcomed as part of a community.

With this latest recognition, Lily Beach continues to define the all-inclusive luxury segment in the Maldives, combining world-class gastronomy, seamless inclusions, and authentic Maldivian hospitality to deliver experiences that remain both refined and heartfelt.

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Awards

Readers’ favourites: Anantara Kihavah, Niyama Private Islands earn top honours in Condé Nast Traveler 2025 Awards

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Two Minor Hotels’ Maldivian resorts — Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas and Niyama Private Islands Maldives — have been recognised among the best in the 2025 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, one of the travel industry’s most respected accolades.

The two resorts, both under Minor Hotels’ luxury Anantara brand portfolio, were featured in the Indian Ocean category of this year’s awards. Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas was ranked No. 9 by readers of Condé Nast Traveller UK, while Niyama Private Islands Maldives secured the No. 10 spot in Condé Nast Traveler US.

These rankings reaffirm the enduring appeal of Minor Hotels’ Maldivian portfolio, celebrated for combining exceptional natural settings with world-class hospitality and distinctive guest experiences.

Located in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas offers a blend of barefoot luxury and marine discovery. The resort is renowned for its award-winning underwater restaurant, SEA, and a diverse collection of private pool villas surrounded by one of the archipelago’s most vibrant house reefs.

Meanwhile, Niyama Private Islands Maldives, set across twin islands Play and Chill in Dhaalu Atoll, continues to define laid-back luxury in the Indian Ocean. Known for its pioneering underwater club Subsix, family-friendly vibe, and innovative wellness and dining concepts, the resort offers an experience where adventure meets serenity.

“These accolades reflect the passion and dedication of our teams across the Maldives,” said Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International, the parent company of Minor Hotels. “We are proud to see our Maldivian resorts recognised by travellers from around the world, reaffirming their status among the most desirable island destinations globally.”

The 2025 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards highlight Minor Hotels’ growing global presence, with a total of 45 accolades across its Anantara, Avani, NH Collection, and Elewana brands — the group’s strongest performance to date.

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Villa Park invites travellers to enjoy up to 20% off Maldivian escapes

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Villa Park invites travellers to experience the warmth and wonder of the Maldives this winter with its Winter Escape Offer, giving guests up to 20% off stays. Set in the South Ari Atoll, one of the country’s largest natural islands, Villa Park blends adventure, relaxation, and genuine Maldivian hospitality across a lush landscape surrounded by turquoise lagoons.

Guests can choose from family beach villas, beach pool villas, and water villas, each designed to capture the island’s light and tranquillity. The highlight of the resort’s collection is the Two-Bedroom Beach Pool House, the largest residence on the island, featuring a private pool, ocean views, and direct beach access. It is the ideal choice for families or friends seeking space, privacy, and comfort.

Recognised as one of the Best Family Resorts in the Maldives by the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards 2025, Villa Park is home to the Park Players Kids Club, the largest in the Maldives. The club offers creative workshops, outdoor adventures, and engaging activities that inspire imagination and connection for children of all ages.

Days at Villa Park are filled with discovery, from whale shark excursions in the nearby marine reserve to treetop dining at ZERO, the island’s garden-to-fork restaurant where ingredients are grown on site. The Araamu Spa offers a peaceful sanctuary inspired by traditional Maldivian healing practices, while sunset cruises and beachside cocktails add to the rhythm of island life.

Sustainability is at the heart of Villa Park’s philosophy. The Green Key-certified resort produces solar energy to power island operations and runs a hydroponic garden that supplies fresh produce to its kitchens. It also operates an in-house glass-bottle facility to eliminate single-use plastics and has implemented comprehensive recycling and waste management systems. These efforts ensure that each stay supports a healthier, more sustainable Maldives.

Guests who book directly at villaresorts.com enjoy exclusive benefits, flexible booking terms, and the best available rates.

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