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The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands introduces spectacular line-up for 2025 Masters of Crafts series

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The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands has unveiled a stellar line-up for the fourth edition of its highly anticipated Masters of Crafts series, featuring the acclaimed Culinary Masters and Behind the Bar showcases. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Maldives, this year’s edition promises to elevate gastronomy and mixology to unparalleled heights, welcoming an extraordinary roster of world-renowned chefs and bartenders from some of the most iconic restaurants and bars across the globe.

This exclusive event series will present a seamless fusion of international culinary and mixology excellence, sustainability-focused concepts, and a deep appreciation of local ingredients. Guests will have a rare opportunity to engage with some of the world’s most decorated talents in the industry, including Spain’s Chef David Yárnoz from El Molino de Urdániz earlier in February, Berlin’s Chef René Frank from Coda, Athen’s Vasilis Kyritsis from LINE, London’s Remy Savage from A Bar with Shapes for a Name and Bar Nouveau, and many more.

Building on the success of the past series’ previous editions which featured notable figures like industry icon Overstory with Harrison Ginsberg, this year’s line-up is set to surpass all expectations. As The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands continues to transform luxury hospitality, the Masters of Crafts series stands as a testament to the resort’s commitment to innovation, culture, and world class experiences.

The Stars of the 2025 Masters of Crafts Series Include:

Chef David Yárnoz, El Molino de Urdániz, 14th -15th February

Chef David Yárnoz, a distinguished Culinary Master holding two Michelin stars and one Green Michelin Star from Spain, is celebrated for his exceptional talent in blending tradition with innovation. With extensive background in prestigious kitchens across Europe, Chef Yárnoz crafts dishes that honour the rich culinary heritage of his native Navarre while embracing modern techniques. As the visionary behind El Molino de Urdániz, his renowned restaurant, he curates a forward-thinking experience that is as deeply rooted in Spanish flavours.

Chef Simone Caponnetto and Bar Manager Alessandro Mengoni, Locale Firenze, 13th to 15th March

Locale Firenze, an acclaimed bar and restaurant in the heart of Florence, is known for seamlessly fusing contemporary Italian cuisine with timeless elegance. Under the guidance of Chef Simone Caponnetto, the restaurant has garnered praise for its innovative dishes, showcasing the finest locally sourced ingredients. Meanwhile, the bar, ranked No. 36 on The World’s Best Bars 2025 list, is celebrated for its innovative cocktails, expertly crafted using rare and carefully selected ingredients, all while staying true to Italy’s rich culinary heritage.

Chef René Frank, Coda, 26th – 27th April

Berlin-based pastry chef René Frank, a two Michelin-starred talent, has made a name for himself with his inventive approach to desserts. His career, shaped in the kitchens of the world’s most renowned restaurants, has established him as a pioneer of modern pastry, continuously pushing the boundaries of flavour, technique, and presentation while deconstructing the concept of traditional desserts. As the visionary behind Coda, Berlin’s first dessert-only restaurant, he revolutionizes classic pastry-making by transforming unexpected ingredients into multisensory masterpieces, entirely forgoing artificial sugar, and elevating patisserie to an entirely new culinary level.

Vasilis Kyritsis, LINE, 8th to 10th June

Nestled in the heart of Athens, Line is a contemporary cocktail bar and has swiftly risen to the forefront as a leader in innovative mixology. Head Bartender Vasilis Kyritsis has earned acclaim for blending cutting-edge techniques with a deep respect for local ingredients and flavour that are both sophisticated and playfully inventive. Ranked No. 6 on The World’s Best Bars 2025 list, Line offers more than just drinks – it curates an immersive storytelling experience, where every cocktail is a harmonious fusion of modern artistry and timeless elegance.

Chef Max Strohe, Tulus Lotrek, 27th October to 3rd November

Michelin-starred Chef and author Max Strohe, has carved a distinguished name for himself in the world of modern gastronomy, recognized for his innovative approach to fine dining. With a career shaped in some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens, Chef Strohe’s expertise shines in every dish he creates. As the creative force behind Tulus Lotrek, his acclaimed restaurant in Berlin, Chef Strohe transforms the finest seasonal ingredients into elegant, contemporary and French-inspired cuisine, delivering offering a refined and unforgettable culinary journey.

Remy Savage, A Bar with Shapes for a Name and Bar Nouveau, 26th to 30th November

London’s A Bar with Shapes is a pioneering cocktail destination where innovation and artistry seamlessly merge, guided by the visionary leadership of Mixologist Remy Savage, founder of Drink More Art. Renowned for its bold, unconventional approach to mixology, each cocktail is a sensory and visual masterpiece, pushing the boundaries of creativity. The venue draws inspiration from the Bauhaus movement, fostering a space where guests and staff alike engage in the art of flavour, encouraging a community of learning and collaboration. Bar Nouveau, opened in 2023 in Paris, pays homage to the Art Nouveau movement, offering a dual experience where cocktails crafted from industrialized ingredients are reimagined in their natural, artisanal form.

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Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa announces six-chef Masters of Food & Wine series

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Building on the success of its inaugural Masters of Food & Wine event held in July 2026, Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa unveils the Masters of Food & Wine Series, a season-long celebration of world-class gastronomy that will welcome six internationally acclaimed MICHELIN-starred chefs to Our Living Island from October 2026 through April 2027.

More than a collection of guest chef dinners, the series is conceived as a culinary journey through the celebrations and rhythms of the season, where each chapter is inspired by a meaningful moment of the year, from Chinese Golden Week and the festive season to New Year celebrations and Easter by the sea.

For one exceptional season, guests will embark on six exclusive culinary chapters, each led by a distinguished chef making a rare appearance in the Maldives. From Cantonese mastery and Tuscan traditions to contemporary European innovation and French artistry, every experience offers a unique expression of culture, craftsmanship and culinary excellence.

Set against the pristine natural surroundings of Hadahaa, each chef will present a bespoke dining experience inspired by their culinary heritage while drawing from the rich bounty of the Maldives, creating a dialogue between world-class gastronomy and the extraordinary ecosystem that defines Our Living Island.

“The Masters of Food & Wine Series reflects our commitment to creating meaningful experiences that connect guests with culture, craftsmanship and nature. Following the remarkable success of our inaugural event, we are delighted to evolve the concept into a season-long journey that brings some of the world’s most celebrated culinary talents to Hadahaa,” said Anshul Sharma, General Manager of Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa.

A Culinary Journey Through the Seasons

For the first time in the Maldives, six celebrated chefs from across Europe and Asia will make their first appearance in the Maldives at Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa, each bringing a distinctive culinary perspective shaped by their heritage, expertise and passion. Together, they will create an extraordinary season celebrating culture, craftsmanship and the world’s most treasured ingredient: nature.

ONE SHARED PHILOSOPHY
Inspired by Nature. Driven by Passion.

Though their journeys span different continents, cultures and culinary traditions, all six chefs share a common philosophy.
A belief that exceptional cuisine begins with exceptional ingredients. Throughout the season, each chef will draw inspiration from the natural bounty surrounding Hadahaa, incorporating local seafood, seasonal ingredients and the flavors of the Indian Ocean into their own unique culinary expressions.

Chapter I
Golden Week | A Celebration of Prosperity, Family and Culinary Heritage

Executive Chef Ku Chi Fai
2 & 5 October 2026

The journey begins during Chinese Golden Week with Executive Chef Ku Chi Fai, founder of MICHELIN-starred Beijing Kitchen and one of the region’s most respected masters of Cantonese cuisine. With more than four decades of culinary experience, he has led Beijing Kitchen to earn seven consecutive MICHELIN Stars and eight consecutive Black Pearl One-Diamond Awards, establishing the restaurant among China’s most distinguished culinary destinations.

Chapter II
The Festive Spirit of Tuscany, Inspired by Nature

Executive Chef Andrea Mattei
14 & 18 December 2026

As the festive season arrives on Our Living Island, Executive Chef Andrea Mattei brings the warmth and traditions of Tuscany to the Maldives. Recognised with a MICHELIN Green Star for Sustainable Gastronomy, his cuisine celebrates seasonality, responsible sourcing and a deep respect for nature, creating a festive experience that reflects the values shared by both Tuscany and Hadahaa.

Chapter III
New Year, New Perspectives

Executive Chef Ruben Christiaens
6 & 10 January 2027

The New Year begins with Executive Chef Ruben Christiaens of La Villa Lorraine, whose contemporary European cuisine is shaped by experience in some of the world’s most renowned kitchens, including Eleven Madison Park in New York. Recipient of the MICHELIN Young Chef Award 2022, Executive Chef Christiaens brings a fresh and creative perspective that celebrates discovery, innovation and new beginnings.

Chapter IV
A Celebration of Innovation and Creativity

Executive Chef Michael Dyllong
23 & 26 January 2027

Representing a new generation of culinary excellence, Executive Chef Michael Dyllong of MICHELIN-starred The Stage is renowned for his technical mastery, creativity and contemporary approach to European gastronomy. Recognized as one of Germany’s youngest MICHELIN-starred chefs, he brings a dynamic culinary vision to Hadahaa.

Chapter V
Easter by the Sea: A Celebration of Togetherness and Renewal

Executive Chef Richard Gabriel Toix
26 & 29 March 2027

As Easter arrives, the journey continues with Executive Chef Richard Gabriel Toix of MICHELIN-starred Le Charlie in Corsica. Combining the precision of French technique with influences gathered throughout a career spanning France and Asia, Executive Chef Toix presents a refined culinary experience inspired by the Mediterranean spirit of sharing, discovery and connection.

Chapter VI
The Art of French Gastronomy, Inspired by Our Living Island

Group Chef David Hemmerlé
5 & 8 April 2027

The season concludes with Group Chef David Hemmerlé, whose distinguished international career spans France, Brazil, Russia, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom. Guided by classical French techniques and decades of culinary excellence, Group Chef Hemmerlé will present a grand finale celebrating craftsmanship, gastronomy and the natural beauty of Our Living Island.

At Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa, nature is more than a setting. It is the inspiration behind every experience, every flavor and every memorable moment shared around the table. While each visiting chef arrives with extraordinary achievements and international acclaim, what truly unites them is a shared passion for craftsmanship, nature and exceptional ingredients. The Masters of Food & Wine Series celebrates not only culinary excellence, but also the meaningful connections and unforgettable experiences that food and hospitality create.

For reservations and further information, please call +960 682 1234, email maldives.parkhadahaa@hyatt.com or visit www.parkhyattmaldives.com.

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RAAYA by Atmosphere wins Best Family Resort in Maldives at Travel Time Awards 2025

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RAAYA by Atmosphere has received its latest recognition at the Travel Time Awards, held in Moscow in August 2026, where the island resort was named “The Best Family Resort in the Maldives 2025”.

The award marks RAAYA’s second consecutive recognition from Travel Time, following its win as “Opening of the Year 2024”.

The recognition reflects the resort’s growing presence in the Russian travel market and its approach to family holidays in the Maldives, with a focus on shared experiences, exploration and activities designed for guests across generations.

Located on a private island in Raa Atoll, RAAYA is centred around the fictional story of Seb, a shipwrecked artist and adventurer whose narrative is incorporated throughout the resort experience. Guests can take part in island exploration, creative activities and ocean-based experiences, alongside family-oriented facilities and a range of dining options under The RAAYA Plan™.

The award was also presented during a visit to the resort by Russian film actress Katerina Shpitsa, known for productions including “Metro”, “The Crew” and “Poddubny”. During her stay, Shpitsa presented the Travel Time Awards 2025 accolade to RAAYA by Atmosphere General Manager Mario Stanic.

“Receiving this recognition for a second consecutive year is a proud moment for everyone at RAAYA,” Stanic said. “Winning the Travel Time Award 2025 for Best Family Resort is a wonderful recognition of what we stand for — bringing families together through shared experiences and lasting memories within a backdrop of a tropical island paradise.

“We are proud to create experiences that resonate with Russian families and families from around the world, offering a place to connect, discover and create memories together. We thank the awards team, our partners and our guests for their continued trust and support.”

The award adds to the international recognition received by RAAYA by Atmosphere since the resort opened in July 2024. The property has positioned its offering around experiential hospitality, design, family-focused programming and its castaway-inspired narrative.

RAAYA features 167 beach and overwater villas, a collection of dining venues and a range of land and ocean activities within its Raa Atoll setting.

With two Travel Time Awards in consecutive years, the resort continues to develop its position within the family travel segment in the Maldives.

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Coco Bodu Hithi invites guests to make memories with ‘Island Glow’ festive season

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This festive season, Coco Bodu Hithi, part of Coco Collection, invites guests to embrace Island Glow: Moments Made to Remember, a joyful programme inspired by togetherness, shared experiences and the simple pleasure of spending meaningful time in the Maldives.

From 22 December 2026 to 7 January 2027, the island sets the scene for festive dining, live entertainment, ocean adventures, wellness experiences and time spent together.  The season opens with the Annual Festive Tree Lighting, where twinkling lights, live music and a celebratory toast mark the start of the holidays.

The days that follow bring Maldivian experiences alongside festive traditions, from local handicrafts and underwater coral planting to cocktails, carols and live performances.  On 24 December, guests gather for a Christmas Eve Gala Dinner accompanied by live music.

The following morning begins with a leisurely brunch before Santa makes his much-awaited arrival at the Main Jetty.  By evening, Maldivian flavours, traditional music and island culture add a distinctly local touch to the celebrations.

The programme brings plenty of ways to spend meaningful time with the people who matter.  Families can discover the house reef or have fun with a playful cook-off, while couples can escape to a Maldivian sandbank or capture a special moment with an underwater photoshoot.  Friends can come together over sushi making, local cooking and cocktail workshops, with sunset cruises and laid-back evenings by the shore adding to the holiday spirit.

Dining brings its own pleasures, from freshly grilled favourites by the beach to intimate Wine & Dine evenings.  For those seeking time to unwind, Coco Spa offers coconut-infused treatments, Ayurvedic therapies and restorative rituals designed for two.

Younger travellers can look forward to plenty of fun and discovery, with nature walks, marine-inspired crafts, colourful keepsakes, movies, karaoke and hands-on activities adding a little extra magic to their stay.

New Year’s Eve begins with a cruise across Maldivian waters to toast the final sunset of 2026, followed by an elegant Gala Dinner.  Live performances, DJ beats and the Festive Raffle Draw build towards the midnight countdown and a sparkling welcome to 2027.

The programme carries on into January with leisurely dining, underwater adventures and evenings by the sea, including the Orthodox Christmas Eve Gala Dinner.  On Orthodox Christmas Day, 7 January, the season draws to a close with a relaxed Breeze Beach BBQ, featuring freshly grilled favourites and live entertainment by the sea.

Framed by turquoise waters, private pool villas and warm Maldivian hospitality, Island Glow welcomes loved ones to reconnect, share meaningful moments and take home lasting memories of their time at Coco Bodu Hithi.  Recognised for two consecutive years at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence, Best Service in 2025 and Best Waterside Hotel in 2026, Coco Bodu Hithi continues to create heartfelt stays shaped by thoughtful experiences and the beauty of the Maldives.

To celebrate the season at Coco Bodu Hithi, guests can visit www.cococollection.com or contact reservations@cococollection.com to plan their stay and discover the exclusive Coco Festive Celebration.

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