News
Bold fusion of music, island vibes: W Maldives to host W PRESENTS with Pretty Girl
W Maldives is setting the tone for bold, creative escapes with the launch of W PRESENTS, W Hotels global live music series spotlighting a diverse mix of emerging and established artists designed to connect guests to the rhythm of the island. On 28 March 2025, the series is coming to the shores of W Maldives’ Gaathafushi private island, featuring Australian-born, London-based electronic artist, Pretty Girl, whose live performance will transform the island into an immersive soundscape.
Known for her unique ability to blend house, UKG, and techno into emotive and dynamic soundscapes, Pretty Girl’s music captures the energy of a destination like W Maldives. Her live set will reflect the essence of the island, creating a synergy between rhythm and the natural beauty of the Indian Ocean. As the waves lap the shore and the sun dips below the horizon, Pretty Girl’s music will provide the soundtrack to an evening that balances creativity and connection.
While music takes the lead, the evening will also feature elevated culinary and cocktail collaborations. Chef Yoshizumi Nagaya, renowned for his contemporary creations and the only Japanese chef in Germany to run two Michelin-starred restaurants, will bring his expertise to the table. At W Maldives, Chef Nagaya will showcase his ability blending traditional techniques with modern innovation through a spread of delicious bites during W PRESENTS as well as an exclusive menu inspired by the resort’s Nikkei-influenced SIP bar on 26 March 2025.
Adding a Mediterranean twist to the night of W PRESENTS is Marco Dongi, the creative force behind one of Bangkok’s top bars, The House on Sathorn. A master mixologist and beverage consultant with over a decade of experience, Dongi has crafted signature cocktails for some of the world’s top hospitality brands. His approach combines bold flavours with an artistic touch, ensuring each drink not only complements the night’s culinary journey but also elevates the overall experience.
W PRESENTS is more than an event; it’s an extension of W Maldives’ commitment to bold programming and unforgettable experiences. The resort’s bio-boho design—drawn from the island’s lush flora and vibrant marine life—sets the stage for an evening that embodies its ethos: fearless, creative, and inspired by its surroundings.
“Music is woven into the fabric of W Maldives, and W Presents amplifies this connection,” said Amila Handunwala, General Manager of W Maldives. “This event is more than a performance—it’s a celebration of the island’s vibrant energy, combining sound, culinary artistry, and design in a way that’s uniquely W.”
Join the revelry when you stay at W Maldives and take advantage of The Original Wavemaker early bird offer.
News
‘Around the World in Wonder’ brings culture, cuisine, celebration to Amilla Maldives
The festive season is in full swing at Amilla Maldives, where the island has come alive with Around the World in Wonder, a journey through global cultures, flavours and traditions. Inspired by Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days, the celebration runs from 20 December 2025 to 6 January 2026, inviting guests to explore the world without leaving the island.
A meaningful early highlight of the programme was Amilla’s 11th anniversary on 21 December, marked by a festive cocktail and cake-cutting ceremony, followed by a Maldivian Night with bodu beru performances. The celebrations continued with the Tree Lighting Ceremony, which formed the glowing centrepiece of an Italian-themed Masquerade Ball. The evening unfolded with Viennese waltz performances and a fire show, while carolers filled the air with gentle festive melodies.
Christmas Eve turned its focus to France, featuring the lively Dance of the Can-Can, a festive buffet and aerial hoop performances. On Christmas Day, Argentina took centre stage as Santa arrived by yacht and rolled into the festive train buggy, leading a joyful island parade and gift-giving moments. The day continued with a festive brunch celebrating flavour, fun and festive cheer.
Festivities will build towards New Year’s Eve, with the Around the World in a Cocktail party and Global Carnival Event, including live performances from the Hamilton Band, bongo beats, soaring saxophone, acrobats and fire dancers, culminating in a countdown to 2026 under the Maldivian night sky.
Every detail has been thoughtfully prepared by the Amilla Maldives team, allowing guests to relax, explore and celebrate in a setting shaped by nature, warmth and wonder.
Click here to explore the full festive programme at Amilla Maldives. For more information about Amilla Maldives, please visit www.amilla.com.
News
Christmas at Fushifaru Maldives begins with tree lighting, Boduberu, kids’ activities
Fushifaru Maldives welcomed the Christmas season in grand style, beginning with a mesmerising tree lighting ceremony on 20 December set against the serene sunset at Thundi, accompanied by live music and tantalising canapés to mark the start of the celebrations. The holiday season runs from 20 December to 6 January, offering a variety of family-friendly activities, including cupcake decorating, pool parties, Boduberu classes, sandcastle making, and tennis classes for the little ones.
On Christmas Eve, 24 December, guests enjoyed a truly unforgettable celebration. The evening began with Santa’s arrival and a sunset aperitif with kids’ gift-giving, followed by a Christmas Gala Dinner featuring an extensive selection of international cuisines. Seafood lovers delighted in a live grilled station featuring jumbo prawns, lobsters, fishes, clams, octopus, and many more, all beautifully displayed on the Maldivian Dhoni boat, alongside a dedicated Japanese corner offering fresh sashimi, oysters, and other delicacies.
For dessert, the chefs presented a heavenly assortment including mousses, crème brûlée, tiramisu, macarons, meringues, soufflés, and many more, ensuring every guest indulged in a sweet finale. The night culminated in a vibrant disco by DJ Elton and a breathtaking performance by Anastasia Gordienko, a talented hula hoops, LED, and aerial gymnastics performer, leaving guests in awe and perfectly closing the Christmas Eve celebration.
News
Villa Nautica hosts Bollywood filmmaker Farah Khan for holiday stay
Bollywood filmmaker and celebrated choreographer Farah Khan marked the festive season with a holiday escape to the Maldives, staying at Villa Nautica and experiencing the island’s signature mix of warmth, privacy, and ocean-side celebration.
A defining creative force in Indian entertainment, Farah Khan has shaped some of Hindi cinema’s most recognisable on-screen moments, from iconic dance sequences to blockbuster storytelling. Widely regarded as one of Bollywood’s most influential choreographers, she has worked across more than 80 films and received major recognition for her craft, including India’s National Film Award for Best Choreography and multiple Filmfare Awards.

Farah’s impact extends beyond choreography. As a director, she is known for beloved mainstream hits including Main Hoon Na, Om Shanti Om, and Happy New Year, bringing together spectacle, humour, and heart with a style that audiences instantly connect with. She is also a familiar face to viewers through television and entertainment formats, where her sharp wit and straightforward personality have made her a standout on screen.
Villa Nautica is located on Lankanfinolhu Island in the North Malé Atoll, just 20 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, making it an easy choice for travellers planning a festive season getaway in the Maldives. The resort is known for its yacht-life inspired spirit, shimmering lagoons, and a vibrant range of ocean experiences, including diving and watersports, paired with relaxed island luxury for all-day unwinding.
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