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Celebrating World Wetlands Day at Canareef Resort Maldives

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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Maldivian Little Heron (Dhivehi Raabondhi): This endemic subspecies of the Little Heron is a skilled hunter, primarily feeding on fish and insects.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. Crickets (Rafeegu): The nocturnal chirping of crickets adds a soothing soundtrack to the evenings at Canareef, reminding us of the interconnectedness of all life.
  11. 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.
  12. 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.
  13. 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.
  14. Sea Hibiscus (Dhiggaa): With its vibrant yellow flowers, the Sea Hibiscus is a beautiful addition to the coastal flora, helping to stabilize sandy shores.
  15. 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.

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Sun Siyam Vilu Reef opens new beach club and Italian restaurant

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Sun Siyam Vilu Reef continues its evolution with the introduction of YAYA Beach Club and Tuscany, two distinctive additions to the resort’s dining and lifestyle experiences. Following the unveiling of its reimagined villas earlier this year, the latest developments bring a fresh dimension to island life, combining relaxed beachside gatherings, music, creative cocktails and the warmth of Italian hospitality.

The launch coincided with the resort’s 28th anniversary celebrations, held from 28 to 30 October under the theme A New Rhythm of the Reef. The three-day programme brought together international DJs, live entertainment, wellness experiences and a special culinary residency by Chef Fatjon Goga, marking another milestone for the first resort in the Sun Siyam portfolio, which opened in 1998.

YAYA Beach Club: A New Signature Experience

At the heart of this new chapter is YAYA Beach Club, the first introduction of this new Sun Siyam Signature Experience across the resort collection.

Designed as a relaxed social space where food, drinks, music and playful moments come together, YAYA brings fresh energy to the island while remaining true to the intimate character of Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, part of the group’s Privé Collection.

The experience unfolds naturally throughout the day, beginning with Club Café, where speciality coffee and music set a relaxed atmosphere. As the day progresses, Smoothies & Spritzes offers refreshing drinks and cocktails, complemented by casual beachside dining, sharing plates, island-inspired games and informal tasting experiences.

What sets YAYA apart is its attention to the smaller moments of hospitality. From chilled towels and fresh coconuts to spontaneous drinks and thoughtful surprises from the team, the concept is designed to create memorable experiences that feel natural and personal rather than programmed.

As the afternoon moves towards sunset, music and cocktails introduce a new rhythm through YAYA’s signature sunset ritual. The concept also includes special monthly Full Moon Soirées, bringing together candlelight, music, sharing plates and drinks beneath the Maldivian night sky.

Open daily from 10:30 to 19:00, YAYA Beach Club welcomes guests of all ages until 17:00, offering a relaxed beachfront setting for lunch, speciality coffee and refreshing drinks. From 17:00 to 19:00, the atmosphere transitions to an adults-only experience for drinks, music and sunset moments. Food service is for lunch only.

As the first YAYA Beach Club in the Sun Siyam portfolio, the concept marks the beginning of a new Signature Experience designed to become a recognisable part of the group’s hospitality offering.

Tuscany: The Warmth of Italian Dining by the Ocean

Complementing the relaxed energy of YAYA Beach Club, Tuscany introduces a different dining experience to Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, inspired by the warmth, generosity and simplicity of Italian cuisine.

Tuscany will welcome guests for dinner daily from 18:30 to 21:30, offering an inviting destination for leisurely evenings where quality ingredients, familiar Italian flavours and a welcoming atmosphere take centre stage.

Rather than focusing on formal dining, Tuscany celebrates the pleasure of sharing good food and conversation. From freshly prepared pasta and Italian favourites to carefully selected ingredients and comforting Mediterranean flavours, the restaurant brings the spirit of Italian hospitality to the shores of the Maldives.

The concept is centred on relaxed, unhurried dining, offering guests an opportunity to enjoy an intimate evening by the ocean. Guests staying at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef may enjoy one dining experience at Tuscany during their stay, while those wishing to return receive a 50% discount on food for subsequent visits.

The introduction of Tuscany was celebrated during the resort’s 28th anniversary programme with a special culinary residency by Chef Fatjon Goga, whose approach to contemporary Italian and Mediterranean cuisine reflects the restaurant’s inspiration. Born in Albania and shaped by his culinary career in Italy, Chef Goga has worked in acclaimed kitchens including Don Alfonso and Arnolfo. Since 2022, he has led Osteria Grande in Arezzo’s historic Piazza Grande, where Tuscan traditions, seasonal ingredients and refined techniques come together.

During the anniversary celebrations, guests were introduced to his culinary philosophy through a special dining programme, including a signature dinner, a hands-on pasta masterclass and an intimate culinary experience highlighting the stories and inspirations behind his cooking.

A New Chapter for Sun Siyam Vilu Reef

Together, YAYA Beach Club and Tuscany introduce two complementary experiences to Sun Siyam Vilu Reef. While YAYA brings a playful, social atmosphere to the island’s daytime offering, Tuscany invites guests to slow down and enjoy the pleasures of Italian dining in the evening.

The new venues follow the resort’s recent villa enhancements and form part of its continued evolution, bringing fresh experiences to the island while preserving the personalised service, natural surroundings and intimate atmosphere that have defined Vilu Reef since its opening in 1998.

As the first resort in the Sun Siyam portfolio, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef continues to build on its heritage, combining the warmth of Maldivian hospitality with new experiences that invite guests to discover a different rhythm of island life.

For more information, visit the Sun Siyam Vilu Reef website.

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Cinnamon Maldives offers up to 80% off stays in 11.11 booking promotion

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Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives has announced its 11.11 offer, available only to guests who book direct. Guests who book by 14th November 2026 receive up to 80% off the rate and choose three of four book direct benefits at their chosen resort, with stays valid until 30th November 2027. Stays of three nights or more also come with resort credits.

The offer spans all four of its Maldives resorts, each with its own character and its own set of book direct benefits. Whether guests are planning a holiday with children, a quiet escape for two, or a week spent mostly underwater, there is an island and a combination of experiences to match. From beach dinners to dolphin watching, guests pick the three benefits that suit their holiday best, so no two stays need look the same.

Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives

Just 20 minutes from Malé in the North Malé Atoll, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives is a lively tropical island where days move easily between the beach, the lagoon, and the reef. It is an easy choice for holidays with little ones, with short transfers and plenty to keep every age busy. Book direct guests can choose any three of a dinner set up on the sand under the stars, a spa treatment to unwind after a day in the sun, a visit to a nearby local island to see everyday Maldivian life up close, and a swim and snorkel session to meet the reef and its residents.

Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives

In the Vaavu Atoll, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives is made for slowing down. Warm white sand, clear water, and the steady sound of the waves set the pace, making it a natural fit for couples and travellers looking for a quieter stay. Book direct guests can choose any three of a beach dinner for two by the water, a spa treatment designed to help them switch off completely, a day of island hopping across the atoll, and a dolphin watching trip on the open sea.

Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives

An adults only island in the Meemu Atoll, Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives is where romance moves to the rhythm of the waves. With water villas set over the lagoon and long, unhurried days, it is a favourite for honeymoons, anniversaries, and couples who simply want time together. Book direct guests can choose any three of a sunset fishing trip as the sky turns gold, a day of island hopping, a bottle of bubbly to toast the occasion, and a kayaking experience across the calm lagoon.

Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon

In the North Ari Atoll, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon opens up a new world underwater. Its house reef sits just steps from the shore, so divers and snorkellers can slip into the water from the beach and be among the reef life within minutes, any time of day. Book direct guests can choose any three of a beach dinner after a day in the ocean, a Balinese massage to ease tired muscles, a sunset fishing trip, and a dolphin safari to spot pods in the wild.

For bookings and enquiries, visit cinnamonhotels.com and the offer is available only on direct bookings made by 14th November 2026.

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Bandos Maldives strengthens food safety and sustainability standards with dual recognition

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Bandos Maldives continues to strengthen its commitment to responsible hospitality, quality and excellence with Food Safety Management System complaint with Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) standards, and the achievement of its Green Globe Certification.

These accomplishments reflect the resort’s ongoing dedication to providing exceptional guest experiences while upholding high standards of food safety, environmental responsibility and sustainable operations.

The HACCP recognition reflects the resort’s dedication to maintaining high food safety and quality standards across its food and beverage operations, ensuring guests enjoy safe and quality dining experiences. It also recognises the collective efforts of the culinary, food and beverage, and stewarding teams in upholding these standards.

Complementing this commitment to quality, the resort’s Green Globe recertification marks another important milestone in its sustainability journey. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Maldives, Bandos Maldives recognises its responsibility to protect its island environment and the marine ecosystem that makes the destination so unique. With 1,330 solar panels generating 744.8 kWp of electricity and meeting approximately 30% of daily energy requirements, Bandos Maldives continues to invest in more sustainable operations. Through its desalination plants and refillable glass bottle initiative, the resort has also eliminated more than 250,000 single-use plastic water bottles annually. Marine conservation also remains another important focus.

Commenting on these achievements, General Manager Ismail Rasheed said: “We are delighted to achieve these important milestones, which reflect our team’s dedication to quality, guest wellbeing and environmental sustainability. While we are proud of our progress, we recognise that responsible hospitality is an ongoing journey. We remain committed to continuously improving our practices and protecting our island environment for future generations.”

Guided by its Island of Hospitality brand promise, Bandos Maldives believes that exceptional guest experiences go beyond warm service and comfortable accommodation. They also mean ensuring guest safety, maintaining quality and protecting the natural beauty of the island and its surrounding marine environment.

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