News
Celebrate Lunar New Year: 9 auspicious activities at Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa
As the Lunar New Year approaches, Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa invites guests to participate in nine delightful activities throughout the week of January 23 to 29, 2025. Each experience is thoughtfully designed to celebrate a season of joy and good fortune, while honouring traditional spring customs. Within the Chinese zodiac, the Year of the Snake is associated with wisdom, renewal, and growth, making 2025 the perfect year to embrace new beginnings and positive transformations.
- DIY Fireworks Workshop: Guests can create colourful paper fireworks to be displayed throughout the week and illuminated during a special ceremony to symbolise a bright start on New Year’s Day.
- Chinese Calligraphy Class: Enjoy a session where guests can learn to write New Year wishes such as “happiness” and “harmony” in traditional Chinese calligraphy.
- Dim Sum Masterclass at Habitat: Delight in the process of creating authentic dim sum as a skilled chef demonstrates the art of making crystal dumplings, symbols of fortune and prosperity, along with flavourful barbecued chicken buns. Following the demonstration, guests will share in a family-style lunch, savouring these delicious creations.
- Chinese Tea Tasting at Sip Tea Lounge: Experience a curated tea tasting that fosters social connections and cultural appreciation. Sample a diverse selection of black, green, white, and oolong teas, including smoky Lapsang Souchong, aged pu-erh, delicate Buddha’s Tears, mellow Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, the imperial White Silver Needle, and the renowned Iron Goddess of Mercy oolong.
- Savour Seasonal Signature Drinks and Hot Pot Specialties: Resident mixologists have crafted a selection of signature cocktails in auspicious shades of red, gold and orange, infused with happiness and vitality. These include Lunar Bloom, an enchanting fusion of house-made pink gin and hibiscus tea syrup, and Shanghai Glamour, a sophisticated blend of sesame-washed vodka, lemongrass, and strawberry cordial. Zero-proof options are also available in all restaurants and bars. A longstanding staple of Chinese home cooking and a symbol of family harmony, the hot pot is a simmering, aromatic broth, served with a medley of thinly sliced meats, fresh seafood, and vegetables. Each hot pot set is accompanied by chilli, peanut, ginger scallion, and garlic and soy dipping sauces. A curated collection of hot pot menus, aptly named Mountain’s Bounty, Ocean’s Harvest, and Fields of Plenty, is available for dinner at Aura Pool Bar from January 29 to February 28, 2025.
- Dress Up in Chinese Traditional Attire: Guests who wish to experience wearing traditional Chinese garments can visit the immersive booth at Habitat and choose from a selection of satin cheongsams (high-necked dresses), silky men’s vests, child-sized Tang jackets with mandarin collars, and two-piece hanfu – translated to “Han clothing” – suits. A festive backdrop, decorated with evocative Chinese lanterns, completes the scene. Enjoy a complimentary photo session, inclusive of an instant-camera photo.
- Welcome Good Fortune: Meet the robust God of Prosperity on his island tour, and write wishes to hang on the traditional wishing tree.
- Watch the Vibrant Lion Dance: Catch the lively parade through the island.
- Ring in New Year’s Day: Enjoy sundowner cocktails, followed by a sumptuous reunion dinner buffet under starry Maldivian skies at Beach Shack. Richly symbolic favourites include vegetarian Hokkien fried noodles for longevity, grilled fish with ginger and scallion-infused sauce for abundance, golden spring rolls for prosperity, and snow fungus soup representing hopes for a sweet future.
The purpose-built Krakengiri Kids’ Club, one of the largest in the Maldives, introduces a selection of New Year activities, in addition to its regular schedule of sports camps and pajama parties, art sessions, pool games and pirate cruises. The festive program includes classes in cherry blossom painting, traditional dance and Mandarin, workshops in crafting festival masks and headbands, Chinese charades, lantern making, and paper cutting art.
Springtime breathes fresh life and renewed radiance. Discover the spa’s seasonal treatments.
The Goddess of Serenity Journey begins with a 30-minute body cleansing ritual, followed by a signature massage and divine glow facial.
For the Well-Groomed Gentleman, the spa offers a muscle melt massage and pedicure, accompanied by a luxurious hot towel wrap and a comfortable shave.
The Cosmic Calm Experience is designed for young guests, with a mini stardust glow facial, age-appropriate aromatherapy massage and a mindful constellation meditation led by a wellness specialist.
An extensive Sleep Wellness menu is designed to ease the mind and body into a state of deep and rejuvenating slumber. Options include a calming signature massage on the spa’s Skye deck; an evening hammam ritual in the modern hammam room; or an in-villa session incorporating guided meditation, yoga and breathwork.
Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa is part of Hilton Honors®, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 24 distinct hotel brands. Members who book directly on the hotel’s website will have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors app.
For more information or to make reservations, guests may visit Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa or call +960 664 63 64.
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.
Drink
Felice Capasso brings award-winning mixology to The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli this February
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort will host World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2025, Felice Capasso, for an exclusive Tastemaker Series collaboration from 4–5 February. The partnership further strengthens the resort’s position as a destination for discerning travellers seeking craftsmanship, cultural depth, and refined experiences.
Located on a private island in the Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives has established a contemporary interpretation of island glamour. Its signature villas include some of the most coveted accommodations in the Indian Ocean, notably the John Jacob Astor Estate—one of the Maldives’ largest overwater residences—and the tranquil, beachfront Caroline Astor Estate. Each estate offers generous living spaces, expansive pools, and panoramic views, reflecting the resort’s dedication to elevated, residential-style luxury.
Within this sophisticated environment, The Whale Bar—an iconic overwater structure—will serve as the setting for Capasso’s arrival. As evening falls, the venue will adopt a vibrant Latin-inspired ambience, where guests will enjoy family-style small plates, bespoke cocktails, and rare vintages on tap while the sunset illuminates the lagoon. In this atmospheric setting, Capasso will unveil an exclusive cocktail menu for his bar takeover, blending classical technique with modern creativity.
On the following day, the resort will host an intimate Masterclass led by Capasso, centred on rum. The session will explore the spirit’s history, its regional expressions, and the narrative approach that distinguishes exceptional mixology. His expertise—rooted in precision, intuition, and storytelling—offers guests a rare opportunity to engage with a leading figure in the global bar industry.
This collaboration forms part of the resort’s ongoing Tastemaker Series, which brings influential creators and innovators to the island. By welcoming talents such as Felice Capasso, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort continues to craft immersive, evocative experiences that embody the distinctive spirit of St. Regis.
Drink
Sun Siyam Olhuveli unveils Milano, Olive Bar and Crust & Flame on Dream Island
Sun Siyam Olhuveli has introduced three new dining and social venues on its Dream Island — Milano, Olive Bar, and Crust & Flame — each conceptualised by the award-winning Studio Sixty7. Together, the venues bring a contemporary expression of coastal European style to the Maldives, blending refined design, effortless island living, and a sense of community that positions Dream Island as the resort’s newest lifestyle and entertainment hub.
Milano – An Italian Soul with a Front-Row Kitchen
Milano celebrates the warmth and generosity of Italian dining, presented through a coastal aesthetic that feels both relaxed and refined. The open kitchen serves as the heart of the restaurant, where guests can watch chefs craft handmade pasta, simmer traditional sauces, and prepare wood-fired dishes. The experience is intimate and engaging, reflecting the sincerity of Italian cooking.
Studio Sixty7 designed the space with an olive-green palette, arched features, textured off-white plaster, linen drapery, and sculpted timber furnishings. Deep green crittall-style glazing adds a quiet elegance, while patterned floors create a gentle visual rhythm. As evening falls, woven pendant lights warm the room, making Milano ideal for leisurely lunches and romantic dinners. Every design detail balances Italian flair with Maldivian tranquillity.

Olive Bar – The New Entertainment Pulse
At the centre of Dream Island’s social energy, Olive Bar offers a refreshed take on family entertainment, hosting nightly performances from acoustic musicians and cultural acts to lively DJ sets. By day, it provides a relaxed lounge environment; by night, it transforms into a vibrant social hub.
The bar’s design embraces coastal openness, featuring timber shutters, adaptable lounge seating, abundant greenery, and natural textures that reflect Studio Sixty7’s craftsmanship-driven approach. Gentle ambient lighting completes the atmosphere, creating a welcoming setting for conversation, laughter, and shared experiences.

Crust & Flame – Casual, Beachside, and Comfort-Driven
Crust & Flame offers a relaxed beachside dining experience centred around artisanal brick-oven pizzas and contemporary light dishes. Its striking emerald-and-sage terrazzo pizza oven serves as the visual anchor of the venue, glowing subtly in natural light as chefs prepare fresh creations throughout the day.
Muted olive and white tiles, moss-toned upholstery, and dark timber seating create a coastal trattoria feel, while maintaining a distinctly Maldivian beach ambience — toes in the sand, ocean breeze drifting through the space, and a focus on simple, well-crafted comfort food.
Reflecting on the creative direction, Lee McNichol, Co-founder of Studio Sixty7, noted that the aim was to craft spaces that feel like a gentle exhale — warm, textured, softly lit, and subtly inspired by European coastal landscapes. Co-founder Jose Rivero added that the intention was to build venues that feel lived-in and soulful, where guests naturally settle into the experience rather than simply dine or watch a performance.
Hassan Adil, General Manager of Sun Siyam Olhuveli, commented: “Our vision for Dream Island was to create a place where guests immediately feel the rhythm of island life — relaxed, social, and full of positive energy. Milano, Olive Bar, and Crust & Flame each offer something distinct, yet together they form a cohesive atmosphere that encourages connection and enjoyment. It is Olhuveli at its most effortless and playful.”
With the launch of these venues, Dream Island evolves into a dynamic culinary and social destination where design, flavour, and ambience come together seamlessly. This development reflects Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s continued journey toward contemporary lifestyle hospitality, grounded in the warmth and authenticity of Maldivian service.
Sun Siyam Olhuveli now offers more than twenty restaurants and bars across its islands, ensuring an ever-diverse dining landscape shaped by creativity, global influence, and the joy of island living.
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