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Celebrate Lunar New Year: 9 auspicious activities at Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa

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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.

  1. 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.
  2. Chinese Calligraphy Class: Enjoy a session where guests can learn to write New Year wishes such as “happiness” and “harmony” in traditional Chinese calligraphy.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. Welcome Good Fortune: Meet the robust God of Prosperity on his island tour, and write wishes to hang on the traditional wishing tree.
  8. Watch the Vibrant Lion Dance: Catch the lively parade through the island.
  9. 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.

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Alila Kothaifaru Maldives aligns festive events with World of Care commitments

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Alila Kothaifaru Maldives will mark the festive season with a programme that combines charitable initiatives with its sustainability commitments. Guests will be invited to donate, run, paddle and plant in support of local community and environmental projects, alongside dining experiences that highlight Maldivian produce.

Under its World of Care commitments, the resort has adopted initiatives to improve the school experience for children at R. Maduvvari School on the neighbouring island and to protect the surrounding marine ecosystem. Participation in the season’s activities will contribute directly to these programmes.

From 25 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, guests may purchase wrapped gifts from a Christmas Charity Surprise Tree, with all proceeds directed to the resort’s charitable causes.

On 27 December 2025, Euro Divers will lead a coral-planting session within the house reef. The activity forms part of an ongoing conservation effort to strengthen reef resilience by increasing coral diversity through the careful planting of hardy coral fragments.

Seasalt restaurant will host a “Boat to Table” beachfront barbecue on 28 December 2025 and 4 January 2026. The buffet will feature seafood such as giant tuna sashimi, ceviche and grilled fish prepared from the day’s catch supplied by local fishermen, reflecting the resort’s focus on local sourcing and support for the Raa Atoll community.

A Charity Kayak Race will take place on 30 December 2025 and 5 January 2026. Entry will be by voluntary donation, with funds supporting enhancements at the R. Maduvvari pre-school.

On 2 January 2026, the programme will conclude with a Charity Island Fun Run around the island. Branded t-shirts will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the resort’s community initiatives.

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Bestbuy Maldives, IREKS launch baking demonstration series with Master Baker Steven Selvamuthu

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Bestbuy Maldives (BBM), the authorised distributor for IREKS products in the Maldives, has announced a special baking demonstration series featuring IREKS Master Baker Steven Selvamuthu, showcasing a vibrant range of colourful and healthy bakes.

Running from 5 to 17 November, the series will include live demonstrations at leading resorts and bakeries in Malé, offering industry professionals the opportunity to explore innovative recipes using IREKS’ world-class baking solutions.

During his visit, Master Baker Steven will highlight creations made with Red Beet Concentrate (derived from beetroot) and Bavarian Purple Bread Concentrate (made from black carrot extract). These natural ingredients offer bakers new ways to craft visually striking and wholesome products. In addition, he will showcase techniques for producing popular cakes such as Red Velvet using IREKS’ premium ingredients, along with options from the brand’s vegan and gluten-free range.

With more than 160 years of history, IREKS is recognised globally for its innovation and excellence in baking. Serving clients in over 90 countries, the company provides a comprehensive portfolio that includes artisanal bread and confectionery mixes, alongside an extensive range of gluten-free and plant-based ingredients.

Speaking about the collaboration, A.V.S. Subrahmanyam, Chief Operating Officer of BBM, said: “We are delighted to host Master Baker Steven in the Maldives and bring his expertise to our local industry. Our partnership with IREKS allows us to deliver not only premium baking ingredients but also the technical knowledge and inspiration that help elevate the skills of Maldivian chefs and bakers. This demonstration series reflects BBM’s ongoing commitment to professional development and to raising the standard of bakery and pastry craftsmanship in the country.”

This latest series builds on BBM’s existing collaboration with IREKS, which earlier this year helped deliver gluten-free and vegan baking solutions across the Maldivian market via a specialised demo tour covering resorts and professional kitchens. By combining expert instruction with purpose-designed ingredient systems, BBM and IREKS are working to empower local culinary teams to meet rising demand for inclusive and health-conscious bakery options.

BBM has been at the forefront of supplying high-quality food and beverage products to the Maldivian hospitality industry for over two decades. Through its partnerships with leading global brands such as IREKS, BBM continues to empower chefs and culinary professionals by organising interactive sessions, masterclasses, and demonstration series with international experts.

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Kuda Villingili Maldives welcomes New Year with music, memories, magic ‘Through the Decades’

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This festive season, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives invites guests to step into an elevated journey of celebration, nostalgia, and rejuvenation with its 2025–2026 Festive Program, themed “Through the Decades.” Between December 23, 2025, and January 7, 2026, the island will transform into a vibrant canvas of shimmering gold, sparkling silver, and neon hues. The resort’s signature ethos — “time and space redefined” — sets the tone, as guests are invited to leave the ordinary behind and relax, celebrate, and reconnect in absolute luxury.

A Christmas wrapped in elegance and cheer begins on December 23 with the Tree Lighting Ceremony illuminating the resort in warm radiance, followed by carol singing under the stars. On Christmas Eve, guests are treated to a sumptuous Gala Dinner complete with festive cocktails at Raalhu Bar and live entertainment. The spirit continues on December 25, when Santa Claus arrives to delight young guests, and the fun spills into gingerbread cookie-making and holiday-themed crafts for families to share joyful moments.

Throughout the festive period, guests can indulge in the sanctuary of the private island Spa — perched over tranquil waters and connected by a small bridge, where the only soundtrack is the gentle lapping of waves. The spa offers the Kuda Villingili Signature Massage, aromatic therapies, Balinese, Lomi Lomi, and Ayurvedic treatments (such as shirodhara and herbal poultices), all delivered using organic and plant-based ingredients. During their festive stay, spa guests may also enjoy seasonal wellness rituals, curated treatments, and exclusive holiday spa packages designed to renew body and mind amidst the indulgence.

The Timeless New Year’s Eve Celebration on December 31 begins with a special NYE cocktail party at Hawkers, followed by a Gala Dinner & Décades Countdown Celebration. Guests are invited to dress in decade-inspired chic — from the ’70s to the 2000s — while savoring themed culinary stations, signature cocktails, and live performances that journey through musical eras. As midnight draws near, a dazzling fireworks show sets the stage for the arrival of 2026. Immediately following, a Neon After-Party with DJ sets and glowing visuals ensures the celebration continues into the new year.

Adventure-seekers can look forward to the resort’s extensive range of ocean activities. Whether seeking an adrenaline rush or a serene escape, guests can tailor their adventures — from big game fishing and competitive water games to scuba diving for both adults and children. MSTS Watersports and Diving will lead these thrilling experiences, ensuring every guest finds their perfect balance of excitement and relaxation.

At the Kuda Fiyo Kids Club, young guests will embark on their own “Time Travel Adventure.” From the disco playgrounds of the ’70s to the arcade fun of the ’80s, cartoon-inspired corners of the ’90s, and karaoke pop parties of the 2000s, children can immerse themselves in creative play, costume dress-ups, games, and mini talent shows — all designed to spark joy and imagination. Meanwhile, couples and solo travelers can drift between gala dinners, late-night lounge soirées, beachfront bar music, and intimate starlit moments by the sea.

The joyous tempo continues on January 1 with a New Year’s Day Brunch, featuring celebratory bubbles and gourmet flavors. The festivities conclude with a special sunset cocktail and Global Flavors Gala Dinner on January 6, 2026.

No festive celebration at Kuda Villingili would be complete without a dazzling lineup of world-class entertainment. Throughout the season, the island will come alive with captivating performances — from a breathtaking fire dancer duo illuminating the night sky to gravity-defying acts by acrobatic artists Danimisima and Jakob. Guests can lose themselves in moments of wonder with enchanting illusions by a resident magician and be swept up in the vibrant energy of multi-genre performer Madam Boyko. As the evenings unfold, the soulful sounds of saxophonist Nikita Rychkov will set the perfect tone, while the dynamic choreography of Show Ballet “Arriva” brings the spirit of celebration to life in a spectacular crescendo.

From the grandeur of gala dinners to tranquil spa escapes, from family-friendly crafts to high-energy dance parties, Kuda Villingili’s 2025–2026 Festive Program embodies its promise of redefining time and space. Whether guests seek celebration, connection, or quiet moments of reflection, every experience is designed to leave a lasting imprint on the heart.

For more information about Kuda Villingii Resort Maldives, please visit www.kudavillingili.com.

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