News

Celebrating World Wetlands Day at Canareef Resort Maldives

Published

8 months ago

February 2, 2025

As the world comes together to celebrate World Wetlands Day on February 2nd, Canareef Resort Maldives stands proud as a beacon of natural beauty and ecological preservation. Nestled in the heart of Addu City, a recently declared UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Canareef is not just a resort but a haven for biodiversity, boasting a stunning array of wetlands, lakes, and vibrant ecosystems. This World Wetlands Day, we invite you to explore the wonders of Canareef’s natural treasures and discover why it is one of the top resorts in the Maldives for nature enthusiasts.

At the heart of Canareef Resort lies the Canareef Eco Park, a sprawling sanctuary centred around the largest lake on the island. This eco-park is a testament to the resort’s commitment to preserving and showcasing the rich biodiversity of the Maldives. Home to a variety of wildlife, including fish, birds, and unique flora, the Eco Park offers guests an immersive experience into the natural world.

Here are some of the incredible species you can encounter at Canareef Eco Park:

Fruit Bat (Vau): The Fruit Bat, or Flying Fox, is a nocturnal marvel that plays a vital role in pollination and seed dispersal. These gentle creatures are often seen feasting on tropical fruits, contributing to the health of the ecosystem.
Grey Heron (Maakanaa): The elegant Grey Heron is a common sight in the wetlands of Canareef. With its long legs and graceful movements, this bird is often spotted wading in shallow waters, hunting for fish.
Maldives Water Hen (Kan’bili): As the national bird of the Maldives, the Maldives Water Hen holds a special place in the hearts of locals. This small, elusive bird is native to the Maldives and can often be seen darting through the wetlands.
White Tern (Dhondhooni): The White Tern is a striking seabird with pure white plumage and long, pointed wings. Known for its graceful flight, this bird is often seen soaring over the coral reefs and nesting in the trees of Addu Atoll.
Maldivian Little Heron (Dhivehi Raabondhi): This endemic subspecies of the Little Heron is a skilled hunter, primarily feeding on fish and insects.
Tilapia (Thelaapia): These freshwater fish are a common sight in the lakes and ponds of Canareef. Tilapia thrive in shallow waters and play a crucial role in maintaining the aquatic ecosystem.
Milkfish (Beyn’gu): The Milkfish, an indigenous species of the Indo-Pacific, is known for its impressive size and omnivorous diet. These gentle giants feed on algae and small invertebrates, contributing to the balance of the ecosystem.
Mud Crab (Kandoo Kakuni): The Mud Crab is a fascinating inhabitant of the mangroves and estuaries around Canareef. These crabs are an essential part of the coastal ecosystem, and their presence is a sign of a healthy environment.
Mangrove Whelk (Fulli): This unique brackish-water snail is commonly found in mangrove environments. The Mangrove Whelk plays a vital role in the nutrient cycle of the wetlands.
Crickets (Rafeegu): The nocturnal chirping of crickets adds a soothing soundtrack to the evenings at Canareef, reminding us of the interconnectedness of all life.
Seashore Screwpine (Boakashikeyo): The Seashore Screwpine is a coastal tree known for its prop roots and spiky leaves. Its edible, pineapple-like fruits are a traditional food source, and the tree is also used for crafting and coastal protection.
Coconut Palm (Ruh): An iconic symbol of the Maldives, the Coconut Palm is deeply intertwined with local culture and daily life. From food and drink to construction, this versatile tree is a cornerstone of the Maldivian way of life.
Black Mangrove (Burevi): The Black Mangrove is a vital component of the coastal ecosystem. Its roots stabilize the shoreline and provide a habitat for a diverse range of wildlife.
Sea Hibiscus (Dhiggaa): With its vibrant yellow flowers, the Sea Hibiscus is a beautiful addition to the coastal flora, helping to stabilize sandy shores.
Coastal Ironwood (Fithuroanu): This hardy tree is a natural protector of the coastline, offering windbreaks and shelter for wildlife.

Canareef Resort Maldives is more than just a destination; it is a sanctuary for nature and wildlife. By celebrating World Wetlands Day, the resort aims to raise awareness about the importance of wetlands and their role in sustaining biodiversity. The wetlands and lakes of Canareef are not only a source of natural beauty but also a vital part of the global ecosystem.

As you explore the wonders of Canareef Eco Park, take a moment to appreciate the delicate balance of nature and the efforts being made to preserve it. Together, we can ensure that these precious ecosystems continue to thrive for generations to come.

This World Wetlands Day, join Canareef Resort Maldives to celebrate the beauty of nature and the incredible biodiversity that makes the island truly special. Let’s cherish and protect the wetlands, for they are the lifelines of our planet.

Excursions

From first visit to thousand dives: Love story anchored at Bandos Maldives

Published

10 mins ago

October 6, 2025

m@ldives

Bandos Maldives recently marked a significant milestone with two of its most loyal guests, Kate and Andy, who have shared a long-standing connection with the island.

Andy achieved an impressive feat by completing his 900th dive, all undertaken with Dive Bandos. His wife, Kate, surpassed this accomplishment by reaching her 1000th dive, with over 900 of those dives also completed alongside the Bandos team.

The Dive Bandos team joined the couple in celebrating this memorable occasion, recognising not only their dedication to diving but also the enduring bond they have formed with the resort over the years.

Kate and Andy’s relationship with Bandos extends far beyond statistics. Having first visited the island in 2006, they have returned every year since, making Bandos an integral part of their lives. In 2014, the couple even chose to exchange their wedding vows underwater at the resort — a unique moment that forever linked their love story with Bandos.

“Celebrating guests like Kate and Andy reminds us of what Bandos truly represents,” said Ismail Rasheed, General Manager of Bandos Maldives.

For Bandos Maldives, moments such as these exemplify why guests continue to choose the island for both adventure and a sense of belonging. With stories like Kate and Andy’s, Bandos stands not merely as a dive destination, but as a home — both beneath and above the waves.

Featured

InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort marks Mental Health Day with Tai Chi for inner peace

Published

17 mins ago

October 6, 2025

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As the seasons change, InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort invites guests to slow down and reconnect with themselves through a tranquil wellness retreat. In observance of World Mental Health Day on 10 October, the resort will host an exclusive ‘Tai Chi for Internal Peace’ session led by visiting practitioner Thana Jindashotinun, followed by complimentary one-on-one consultations. Guests can also opt for the AVI Wellness Journey, a holistic programme featuring breathwork, meditation, yoga, and spa rituals inspired by the island’s serene natural surroundings.

Located on the southernmost tip of Raa Atoll, on the edge of a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort provides an ideal setting to reset both mind and body. As the first and only all-Club InterContinental property in the Maldives, the resort combines five-star island luxury with exclusive Club InterContinental benefits. Guests can customise their stay across 81 villas and residences, seven restaurants and bars, and The Retreat, an adults-only enclave dedicated to relaxation. The resort’s AVI Spa offers an overwater sanctuary specialising in signature treatments and therapies.

Harmony healer Thana Jindashotinun will guide guests on their wellness journey from October to 30 November. Having begun practising Tai Chi at the age of eight to manage asthma, Thana has dedicated his life to mastering the art. Combining a background in psychology, anatomy, and Oriental medicine, his sessions integrate a range of disciplines, including Qi Gong, Meridian breathwork, yoga, postural assessment, and acupressure.

Guests will have the opportunity to join Thana’s signature class, ‘Tai Chi for Internal Peace’, on 10 October at 18:00 hrs at Lighthouse Beach. The class focuses on calming the nervous system through gentle movement and mindful breathing, aiming to ease anxiety, improve sleep, and restore inner balance. Following the session, participants will receive a complimentary 15-minute consultation to explore personalised wellness guidance.

Throughout his residency, Thana will also offer a variety of therapeutic experiences such as Yin Yang Bodywork, the EnerQi Massage for restoring inner harmony, and energy-focused treatments designed to promote deep relaxation and improved circulation. His Energy Detox Treatment is particularly aimed at revitalising the body’s natural rhythms and promoting a sense of renewal.

Complementing Thana’s offerings, guests can join regular wellness sessions with resident experts Zhazira Kurmangalina and Mett, including guided yoga, aerial yoga, meditation, and mat Pilates. For those seeking more active pursuits, the resort offers high-energy bootcamps, circuit training, and private personal training sessions.

The resort’s wellness philosophy extends to guests of all ages, with dedicated activities for teenagers such as Peace of Mind meditation and posture yoga at the Yoga Pavilion. Younger guests can take part in Muay Thai boxing, creative crafts, and Boduberu drumming workshops, while the Young Spa Ritual offers facials, massages, and body scrubs tailored for teens.

Visitors are encouraged to celebrate wellness throughout the season by participating in the resort’s holistic programmes and exclusive sessions with Thana Jindashotinun. From complimentary Tai Chi and meditation classes to bespoke therapies at AVI Spa, the resort presents an ideal opportunity to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit.

For a complete restorative experience, the AVI Wellness Journey offers guests a curated itinerary based on individual goals, including private yoga, meditation, and fitness sessions, spa treatments, and thermal suite access. The package also includes complimentary breakfast and dinner, use of non-motorised water sports, and Club InterContinental benefits such as afternoon tea and evening aperitifs. Extended stays come with added privileges—30% savings on seaplane transfers and meal plans for stays of four nights or more, and USD 50 daily resort credit for stays of seven nights or longer.

This October, InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort reaffirms its commitment to wellbeing, inviting guests to embrace stillness, mindfulness, and renewal in one of the Maldives’ most serene settings.

Entertainment

Joy, creativity and connection define JOALI Maldives’ ‘Rise & Shine’ festive journey

Published

25 mins ago

October 6, 2025

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JOALI Maldives, the Maldives’ first and only art-immersive resort, is set to welcome guests to a radiant festive season celebration under the theme ‘Rise & Shine’ — a tribute to joy, beauty, and inner light. Taking place from 21 December 2025 to 10 January 2026, the Raa Atoll retreat will transform into a celestial haven of creative expression, blending art, culture, and wellbeing experiences inspired by the resort’s Joy of Creative Living philosophy.

“Each festive season, our goal is to create an atmosphere that uplifts and inspires,” said Shifaz Hassan, General Manager of JOALI Maldives. “With this year’s Rise & Shine theme, we invite guests to reconnect with loved ones, express their creativity, and celebrate the holidays surrounded by the island’s natural beauty.”

The celebration will encompass culinary artistry, interactive workshops, family adventures, and world-class fitness programmes led by visiting experts.

Visiting Experts:

Chef Nina Tarasova, the acclaimed pastry chef, will return to host her signature Russian Voyage Wine Dinner — a multisensory journey through traditional flavours and curated wine pairings.
Dr. Sanket Yadahalli, a respected wellness practitioner, will conduct transformative sessions in breathwork for pain relief alongside Pranayama Renewal classes designed to restore energy and balance.

JOALI Maldives’ Rise & Shine celebrations will feature a dynamic array of experiences across its restaurants and creative spaces:

Culinary Events: Guests can savour themed dining experiences including A Taste of Japan at Saoke, Indian Ocean Voyage, and the Mediterranean-inspired Levantine Dream. Curated cocktail evenings such as Once Upon a Sake, Old World Wine Dinner, and Theatre of Gin will complement indulgent festive feasts for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, Orthodox Christmas and beyond.
Art, Culture & Creativity: The resort’s immersive art spaces will host celestial pottery classes, wooden craft workshops, starry night painting sessions, and festive embroidery workshops at the JOALI Art Studio. Sustainability takes centre stage with coral nursery tours and reef restoration projects like Christmas Corals, reflecting JOALI’s ongoing commitment to marine conservation.
Wellbeing & Movement: The resort will offer a holistic wellbeing schedule featuring Lunar Glow meditations, Qi Flow, HIIT Challenge, a Padel Tournament, and Sunrise Bootcamp. Guests may also book night snorkelling adventures, Primal Flow, and Core Connect sessions.
For Families & Young Explorers: Under the enchanting theme “Stardust & Sparkle”, the Muramas Kids Club will curate daily programmes for younger guests — from Christmas tree decorating and mocktail mixology to galactic kite flying and star map painting — guided by Pico the Heron, the resort’s beloved festive mascot.

Beloved traditions will return, including the lighting of the Holiday Tree, the unveiling of the Gingerbread House, and the eagerly anticipated arrival of Santa Claus. Guests can enjoy festive favourites such as the Christmas Scavenger Hunt, a Football Tournament, and the dazzling New Year’s Eve Starlight Gala — a night of fireworks, live entertainment, and fine dining. The celebrations will also include My Maldives, an elegant cocktail reception where guests can toast the season alongside JOALI’s leadership team.

Guests can experience the festivities from one of 73 beach and over-water villas, ranging from one to four bedrooms, each attended by a personal Jadugar (meaning “skilled magician”). Villa rates start from USD 5,851 per night based on two guests sharing a Water Villa with Pool on a bed-and-breakfast basis.