News

Celebrating World Wetlands Day at Canareef Resort Maldives

Published

1 year 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.

Food

OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi invites guests to break fast island-style this Ramadan

Published

14 mins ago

February 12, 2026

m@ldives

OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi invites guests, residents, and visitors to celebrate the holy month of Ramadan with meaningful Iftar gatherings, just a short 15-minute speedboat journey from Velana International Airport. Designed for colleagues, friends, and families to come together in a relaxed island setting, the resort offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere to share the blessings of the season over a thoughtfully curated Iftar spread.

Hosted daily throughout Ramadan, from 18th February to 19th March at Element X restaurant from 06:00 — 07:15 PM, the Iftar experience features an extensive buffet showcasing traditional Maldivian flavours alongside popular regional favourites. Guests can enjoy juice, dates, mixed dry fruits and nuts, yoghurt, Maldivian short eats, a selection of main courses, and desserts, offering a wholesome and festive dining experience in the spirit of Ramadan.

The experience is well suited for corporate gatherings and family groups, with special packages available for group reservations, and guests are encouraged to confirm their bookings at least 24 hours in advance. Convenient speedboat transfers make the island easily accessible for those joining the evening gathering.

This Ramadan, gather your loved ones and share the joy of togetherness over a memorable island Iftar experience at OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi.

For details and bookings, please call +960 934 2685 / +960 934 2550, or email fbreservations.ailafushi@coloursofoblu.com.

Family

Kuda Villingili to host family-focused Easter celebration with dining, wellness events

Published

19 mins ago

February 12, 2026

m@ldives

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has announced its Easter Celebration 2026 programme, inviting guests to experience a week of festivities inspired by the playful charm of Candy Land, reinterpreted through the resort’s signature approach to calm, space and understated luxury.

Located on a private island in North Malé Atoll, approximately 30 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, the resort features 75 villas and residences designed to offer privacy and connection to the surrounding natural environment. The Easter programme has been structured to combine dining, wellness, family activities and ocean-based experiences.

The Easter calendar includes a series of themed dining events intended to bring families and friends together throughout the week. Guests will be able to explore curated culinary journeys such as Caravan of Flavours, Pan-Asian Voyage and the Easter Grapevine Dinner, each designed to showcase diverse global cuisines in a convivial setting.

A key highlight will be the Kuda Villingili Grand Easter Gala Buffet on Easter Sunday, featuring festive dishes, live cooking stations and live band entertainment. The celebration aims to serve as the focal point of the week’s activities.

For guests seeking a more relaxed island-style experience, the Surfside Sunset BBQ at Raalhu Bar will present flame-grilled specialities and fresh seafood against the backdrop of the Chickens surf break, accompanied by sunset views and live music.

Younger guests will also have the opportunity to participate in the Little Chefs of Kuda: Easter Baking Workshop, a hands-on culinary session designed to introduce children to baking in a playful environment.

Wellbeing remains central to the resort’s Easter offering. A series of wellness experiences will be available throughout the week, including sound healing sessions, Ocean Breeze Yoga conducted over the open sea, and guided yoga flows focused on balance and mindfulness.

These activities are designed to provide space for families, couples and friends to reconnect and mark Easter as a period of renewal and shared experience.

For guests interested in marine activities, MSTS Dive & Water Sports will offer a range of Easter-themed experiences. Young guests can explore introductory diving through the Seal Team for Kids programme, while families can participate in an Easter Kayak Race across the lagoon.

A customised Big Game Fishing experience will also be available for those seeking a more private excursion on the Indian Ocean.

At Kuda Fiyo Kids Club, the Candy Land theme will be brought to life through Easter egg hunts, baking sessions, arts and crafts, themed movie nights and games. The programme has been designed to provide structured activities for children while allowing parents time to relax.

With a combination of festive dining, wellness programming and ocean-based experiences, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives’ Easter Celebration 2026 aims to offer a balanced island escape that blends seasonal celebration with tranquillity.

More information on the Candy Land Easter programme is available via the resort’s official brochure and website.

Awards

Constance Halaveli and Constance Moofushi earn top scores in 2026 Booking.com awards

Published

2 hours ago

February 12, 2026

m@ldives

Constance Hospitality has been recognised in the 2026 Traveller Review Awards by Booking.com, with its Maldivian resorts achieving some of the highest scores within the group’s portfolio.

In the Maldives, Constance Halaveli Maldives received an outstanding score of 9.8 out of 10, while Constance Moofushi Maldives achieved 9.7. The ratings, based on verified guest reviews, reflect consistently high levels of guest satisfaction and service delivery.

Constance Halaveli Maldives, known for its spacious overwater and beachfront villas, personalised service and refined dining concepts, continues to perform strongly among travellers. Constance Moofushi Maldives, positioned as a barefoot chic resort with an all-inclusive concept, also maintains a high guest approval rating, supported by its diving experiences and relaxed island atmosphere.

While the wider Constance portfolio across the Indian Ocean was recognised, the Maldives properties stand out as the group’s highest-rated resorts in the 2026 awards cycle.

Commenting on the recognition, Jean-Jacques Vallet, Chief Executive Officer of Constance Hospitality, stated that the awards reflect the professionalism and commitment of the teams on the ground. He added that guest feedback remains central to maintaining service standards and delivering consistent experiences across the group’s destinations.

The recognition reinforces the position of Constance Halaveli Maldives and Constance Moofushi Maldives as leading performers within the Maldives’ competitive luxury hospitality sector.