News
Kandooma Maldives celebrates 40 years of hospitality with special events

Kandooma Island marks a significant milestone this year as it celebrates 40 years of unforgettable experiences, warm hospitality, and cherished memories. Since opening in 1985, it has become a destination where guests return time and again to explore, connect, and create lasting moments.
To honour this incredible journey, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives will host a series of special events leading up to the official 40th Anniversary Celebration on 19 March 2025. Guests can participate in exciting festivities and sustainability initiatives, with exclusive surprises for those checking in and staying on the day.
Reflecting on this historic occasion, Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, shared his thoughts on the resort’s legacy and future: “Celebrating four decades of Kandooma is a testament to the passion, dedication, and warm hospitality that have defined this island. From its very first guests in 1985 to those who continue to return, we are honoured to be part of so many cherished memories. Looking ahead, we will continue our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and providing truly unforgettable experiences for everyone who visits our shores.”
The day’s highlight will be an Anniversary Gala Dinner on 19 March at Kandooma Café, featuring a live DJ and singers. As a special thank-you to its loyal guests, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives will give away up to 40,000 IHG Rewards Points to lucky guests dining at the gala.
Furthering its environmental conservation efforts, 40 of Kandooma Maldives’ longest-serving team members will plant 40 coconut palms, each named in their honour as a tribute to their invaluable contributions. This initiative celebrates their lasting impact on the island while reinforcing the resort’s dedication to preserving its natural beauty. Leading this meaningful tree-planting ceremony are Zakariyya Mahmood, who has been part of the island since 1982, even before it welcomed guests and now serves as Crew Leader for Plant Maintenance, and Mohamed Hashim, who started as a gardener in 1986 and is now Housekeeping Manager. Alongside their fellow tenured colleagues, they have left an enduring mark on Kandooma Maldives, shaping its legacy over the years.
Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, expressed his pride in the resort’s long-serving employees: “Our people are the heart of Kandooma, and it is truly inspiring to see individuals like Zakariyya and Hashim, who have dedicated decades of their lives to this island. Their unwavering commitment makes Kandooma a home away from home for so many guests, and we are proud to celebrate their contributions as part of this special milestone.”
Another legacy project is the Underwater Time Capsule, a sealed waterproof container filled with guest wishes, employee letters, and memorabilia, which will be placed at a dive site. This capsule will be retrieved 10 years later for the island’s 50th anniversary in 2035.
From its beginnings as a tranquil private island retreat to its current status as a cherished destination, Kandooma Maldives continues to evolve while preserving its authentic charm and commitment to hospitality. As the island moves forward, it remains dedicated to offering exceptional experiences, sustainable initiatives, and meaningful connections for every guest who visits.
Located in the South Male Atoll, just 45 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Kandooma Maldives is a tropical escape with pristine white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and spacious overwater and beachfront villas. The resort also boasts seven dining venues, a world-class spa, and a range of activities for both divers and non-divers alike.
News
Madifushi Private Island’s new Bella Six: Ultimate private villa experience for girls’ getaway

Madifushi Private Island has announced the launch of its newest and most exclusive accommodation, Bella Six — a first-of-its-kind, all-ladies private villa designed to redefine luxury, privacy, and indulgence in the Maldives.
Bella Six is a stunning four-bedroom beachfront villa curated exclusively for women seeking the ultimate escape with friends, sisters, mothers, or daughters. Every detail of this private sanctuary has been thoughtfully crafted to deliver an unforgettable experience.
Highlights of Bella Six include a luxurious private beachside villa with four spacious bedrooms and a private pool for endless sun-soaked relaxation. An exclusive private spa for in-villa treatments and wellness awaits, complete with a private masseuse, along with a dedicated private BBQ experience under the stars to delight the culinary senses. A private buggy is on call for all personal island transport, while a personal butler is available to handle every need, ensuring a seamless and pampered stay.
From touchdown to takeoff, guests at Bella Six will enjoy a fully curated, private experience designed exclusively for women — making it the girls’ holiday everyone deserves.
“This villa is more than just a place to stay — it’s a celebration of friendship, freedom, and luxury designed especially for women,” said Ali Shakir, Group General Manager of Madifushi Private Island. “We’re proud to offer an experience that speaks to the desire for absolute privacy, indulgence, and meaningful connection.”
The official unveiling of Bella Six was made at ATM Dubai 2025, one of the world’s leading travel and tourism exhibitions, highlighting Madifushi Private Island’s commitment to innovation and excellence in luxury hospitality.
Booking inquiries for Bella Six are now open. For more information, please contact stay@madifushiprivateisland.com.mv.
News
SO/ Maldives launches Kidtastic Summer with glamorous twist of family fun

Get ready for a whirlwind of excitement as the SO/ Maldives unveils Kidtastic Summer, a sun-drenched escape designed for families seeking the perfect blend of luxury, creativity, and non-stop entertainment. This vibrant seasonal offer invites children to dive headfirst into a world of fun and imagination, while parents enjoy some much-needed relaxation in style.
The resort’s Beach Pool Villa Capsule is a perfect retreat for families, accommodating two adults and two children. This modern, organic-style villa offers all the essentials for a relaxing getaway, including a specially designed kids’ pod to make the stay extra enjoyable for the little ones.
The Kidtastic Summer package offers an unforgettable island escape, complete with a fully equipped Kids Club that keeps young guests entertained from sunrise to sunset. While the kids are immersed in playful experiences, parents can unwind in tropical bliss, knowing their little ones are in safe, joyful hands.
From hands-on creativity to action-packed play, your little ones will explore a whirlwind of excitement. They’ll whip up delicious delights in a complimentary pizza-making class, design wearable art with tie-dye t-shirts, and shape magic with clay in the pottery class. Creative sparks fly with wood painting, sand art, palm leaf crafts, and canvas bag decorating, while the mosaic coaster and cookies decoration workshops promise sweet, artistic memories.
For kids who love to groove, Zumba and yoga sessions bring the energy, and for thrill-seekers, there’s water gun battles, trampoline games, and a wild scavenger hunt around the resort. Budding performers will love karaoke nights, while dreamers can stargaze under Maldivian skies. From jewelry making to henna tattoos, sandcastle competitions, and even learning about marine life and Maldivian culture, every day is a new chapter in their summer story.
Adding a splash of adventure, families can also enjoy complimentary non-motorized water sports, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing; offering a chic, eco-friendly way to explore the turquoise lagoons and serene coastal beauty. It’s the perfect opportunity for unforgettable bonding moments surrounded by the natural elegance of the Maldives.
Kidtastic Summer isn’t just a family getaway; it’s a vibrant, fashionable experience where unforgettable memories are made, and every moment sparkles with fun.
Bookings are now open. Let your kids shine while you relax in paradise.To book your perfect Eid getaway, please visit SO-Maldives.com or write to SO.Maldives.Reservations@so-hotels.com.
Awards
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives recognised among top 10% worldwide in Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards 2025

Alila Kothaifaru Maldives has been recognized as a winner of the 2025 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award, placing the resort among the top 10% worldwide based on reviews from millions of TripAdvisor travelers. This accolade is awarded to properties that consistently receive outstanding traveler reviews and ratings over the past year, reflecting genuine guest satisfaction and excellence in service.
Each year, TripAdvisor celebrates the world’s favorite travel experiences based entirely on the voices of the global travel community. Alila Kothaifaru Maldives earned its place at the top due to the thoughtful reviews of guests who are consistently drawn to its distinctive blend of natural beauty, understated luxury, and attentive service. The resort’s eco-minimalist design is central to the guest experience, offering a refined simplicity that complements the island’s natural beauty.
Guests also frequently commend Alila Kothaifaru Maldives as a culinary destination, where masterful techniques and the freshest local ingredients combine to capture the essence of Maldivian flavor in bold and creative ways. From bespoke beachside dining and uniquely curated menus to weekly themed dinner nights, each meal is presented as a distinct journey.
Furthermore, the resort is considered a world-class destination for underwater adventure and exploration. With direct access to vibrant coral reefs and pristine dive sites, guests of all levels can discover the extraordinary marine life that surrounds the island—often cited as a highlight of their stay.
“The resort is truly honored to receive this recognition from TripAdvisor,” stated Thomas Weber, the General Manager of Alila Kothaifaru Maldives. “This award is especially meaningful because it reflects the genuine impressions of our guests. It stands as a testament to the dedication of our team, who are deeply committed to crafting remarkable and meaningful stays in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring locations.”
The management and team of Alila Kothaifaru Maldives extend their sincere gratitude to their valued guests for their continued support and thoughtful feedback. Their reviews not only shape the resort’s evolution but also help inspire travelers around the world to discover its unique offerings. Alila Kothaifaru Maldives remains committed to exceeding expectations and looks forward to welcoming guests—both familiar and new—for another unforgettable year in paradise.
-
Awards1 week ago
Soneva Secret makes Condé Nast Traveller’s 2025 Hot List of best new hotels
-
Action6 days ago
India’s Sunrisers Hyderabad cricket team hits pause with Maldives retreat
-
News1 week ago
NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi offers free speedboat transfers for Summer 2025
-
Business1 week ago
BBM brings Vaseline, Hellmann’s, BRU Coffee to Maldives market
-
Awards1 week ago
Lily Beach Resort nominated in 3 prestigious categories at World Travel Awards 2025
-
News6 days ago
Barceló Nasandhura opens as Male’s largest hotel
-
News1 week ago
Conrad Maldives welcomes guests to celebrate Golden Week with curated experiences
-
Action5 days ago
Napoli back on top of Serie A as De Laurentiis celebrates in Maldives