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One&Only Reethi Rah brings leading luxury skincare brand Augustinus Bader to Maldives

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One&Only Reethi Rah, the all-villa private island resort, has announced an exciting partnership with world-renowned luxury skincare brand Augustinus Bader. The resort will offer a selection of the celebrity-approved brand’s transformative treatments at its award-winning spa.

A haven of quiet pampering nestled within a lush tropical garden, the One&Only Spa recently achieved a 5-star rating by Forbes Travel Guide for the first time, making it the first and only spa in the Maldives with 5-stars. Harnessing rejuvenating therapies from East to West, this serene escape combines ancient therapeutic rituals with modern day research and now adds the expertise of Professor Augustinus Bader to its repertoire.

The German-born co-creator behind the brand, Professor Augustinus Bader, is globally recognised as one of the foremost experts in the field of regenerative medicine and stem cell biology. His groundbreaking research in skin traumas led to the revolutionary technology that inspired Augustinus Bader skincare, which has amassed an international following of loyal customers, including celebrities the likes of Victoria Beckham, Naomi Campbell, and Jennifer Aniston.

Augustinus Bader formulas are driven by TFC8® (Trigger Factor Complex 8), the brand’s patented technology driven by over 30 years of cutting-edge research and clinical studies. TFC8® formulas comprise of natural amino acids, high-grade vitamins and peptides naturally found in the body and in both clinical trials and consumer studies, have proven results that promote skin that looks and feels healthier, firmer and more radiant for the long term.

Fans and beauty enthusiasts at the resort can now experience a selection of bespoke and sophisticated Augustinus Bader facial treatments at the One&Only Spa. Designed to amplify the power of TFC8® technology, the 60-minute Bespoke Facial delivers immediate results that leave the skin refreshed, balanced, and radiant, while the 75-minute Advanced Facial is a luxurious treatment designed to deeply rejuvenate and nourish the skin for a healthy and long-lasting glow.

At the helm of the partnership is the resort’s newly appointed Director of Spa, Aishath Zulfishan (fondly known as Xubba), a Maldivian wellness professional with over 18 years of experience in the industry. With her knowledge of Maldivian culture and rituals, Xubba brings a unique blend of tradition and science to the partnership and the overall wellness journey at the One&Only Spa.

“We are thrilled to welcome a world-class beauty partner like Augustinus Bader with its cult following and unparalleled scientific expertise,” says Jan B. Tibaldi, General Manager. “This collaboration is set to offer our guests special access to the game-changing technology of Augustinus Bader’s formulas while on holiday, elevating their holistic wellness experience at our resort.”

The resort’s One&Only Spa offers a chance to disconnect from the world in an idyllic wellness sanctuary that offers watsu therapy, Maldivian rituals, and other bespoke treatments tailored to every guest’s unique needs. Therapists blend holistic and conventional expertise to create individual programmes combining spa treatments and fitness activities in line with nutritional intake, curating a personalised regimen to inspire long term improvements to one’s lifestyle and wellbeing. The spa is also home to the finest beauty and grooming studios to complement the wellbeing experience, including Pedi:Mani:Cure Studio by Bastien Gonzalez for nails, and Barber&Blade™ for private grooming for the discerning gentleman.

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Kandolhu Maldives introduces new villas and gastronomic journeys

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Kandolhu Maldives has announced a new season of island experiences, highlighting the resort’s refurbished Deluxe Ocean Pool Villas and a series of exclusive dining collaborations with internationally acclaimed chefs. The resort aims to offer guests opportunities to rediscover its intimate setting through refreshed accommodation and elevated culinary events.

The newly enhanced Deluxe Ocean Pool Villas, each spanning 120 sqm, have been designed with relaxation and comfort in mind. The villas now feature a spacious bedroom, a light-filled bathroom with a deep oval bathtub overlooking the Indian Ocean, and a private deck furnished with sun loungers and a sun umbrella. A new 23 sqm private pool has also been added, alongside a hammock suspended above the water, offering uninterrupted ocean views.

The resort has also introduced a line-up of exclusive dining events, bringing together Michelin-starred chefs and distinguished winemakers. These collaborations, hosted at Olive restaurant, combine fine cuisine with curated wine pairings, promising immersive gastronomic experiences.

  • 3 October 2025: Chef Bernd Bachofer will present a degustation menu combining Japanese, Southeast Asian, and French haute cuisine. The evening will be paired with vintages from New Zealand’s Schubert Wines, led by winemaker Kai Schubert. Chef Bachofer, awarded a Michelin star in 2015, brings decades of expertise from renowned kitchens in Germany and Switzerland.
  • 23 November 2025: The Kandolhu culinary team, headed by Chef Justin, will prepare a five-course Mediterranean dinner paired with Stonefish wines. Wine expert Peter Papanikitas will guide guests through each course, providing insights into the pairings.
  • 3 December 2025: Michelin-starred Chef Theodor Falser will craft contemporary interpretations of Italian cuisine in a five-course dinner for just 14 guests. Each course will be paired with fine Italian wines, offering an intimate dining experience.

Kandolhu’s Island Hosts, Claudio Stupan and Luciana Codiferro, commented, “Our vision has always been to create a space where guests feel both completely relaxed and deeply inspired. With refreshed villas and new culinary journeys ahead, we are proud to offer an experience that truly reflects the spirit of Kandolhu.”

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Bavarian traditions meet island living at Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s Oktoberfest

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Sun Siyam Olhuveli has announced that it will host its own take on Oktoberfest from 1 to 5 October 2025, bringing one of the world’s most recognised celebrations to a tropical island setting. The resort will combine Bavarian traditions with Maldivian hospitality, offering guests a week-long programme of music, food, and festivities.

A highlight of the event will be a performance by international DJ twins Kristina and Anna Grushina. With a strong global following of more than two million on social media and chart-topping success on Spotify, the sisters are renowned for their high-energy sets that transform any stage into a vibrant dance floor. Their performance on the resort’s beachfront is expected to be a key feature of this year’s festival.

Alongside live music, the festival will present German brews and themed culinary experiences inspired by Oktoberfest. Guests will be able to enjoy Bavarian-style dishes alongside a selection of hops and lagers served beachside. To add to the atmosphere, family-friendly activities and games will be organised throughout the resort, creating a spirit of connection and celebration in an island environment.

“We are excited to bring together international music talent, authentic gastronomy, and our island’s natural beauty in this celebration,” said Hassan Adil, General Manager of Sun Siyam Olhuveli. “Every year, Oktoberfest and many other celebrations at Sun Siyam Olhuveli continue to highlight culture, community, and entertainment in a way that is unique to our resort and to the Maldives.”

The five-day festival will not only celebrate Oktoberfest but also demonstrate Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s ability to host immersive experiences that blend international entertainment with the relaxed lifestyle of the Maldives. Guests staying at the resort during this period will experience a beachfront festival of music, cuisine, and festivities designed to leave a lasting impression.

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MU Maniku, key architect of Maldives tourism industry, dies

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Mohamed Umar Maniku (MU Maniku), a key figure in the establishment and growth of the Maldives tourism industry, has died in Singapore. He passed away on Saturday while in intensive care at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, where he had been receiving medical treatment for about a month.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Universal Enterprises announced:

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mohamed Umar ‘M.U.’ Maniku on 30th August 2025 at 0630 hrs Singapore time in Mount Elizabeth Hospital, Singapore. As Chairman of Universal Enterprises, he will forever be remembered as a pioneer whose vision, loyalty and integrity were felt by generations of industry professionals, who will remember him with deep affection and respect. He had been an integral part of the inception and growth of the tourism industry in the Maldives. We remember a man whose legacy cannot be confined to a date or a place.”

“To those close to him, M.U. Maniku was a guiding light. He was the steady hand that led Universal Enterprises through decades of change, and a mentor for many. He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren and extended family. The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to all who have offered support and condolences during this difficult time.”

Maniku was part of the group that opened Kurumba Maldives in 1972, the country’s first resort, widely regarded as the starting point of the modern tourism industry in the Maldives.

As Chairman and a principal shareholder of Universal Enterprises/Universal Resorts, Maniku oversaw the development of a portfolio that has included properties such as Kurumba, Kuramathi, Baros, Velassaru, Kandolhu, Milaidhoo and Huvafen Fushi.

Beyond the Maldives, he also served as Chairman of Mahaweli Reach Hotels PLC in Sri Lanka from 2012, reflecting the group’s cross-border hospitality interests.

Maniku chaired the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI), which was formed in 1982 to represent resort owners and operators and to engage with government on policy and sector development. Under his leadership, MATI became a key platform for industry coordination and dialogue.

Contributions and legacy:

  • Pioneering market entry (1972): Helped establish Kurumba and proved the commercial viability of resort tourism in the country.
  • Resort development: Guided Universal’s expansion into multiple resort segments, supporting destination diversification and supply growth.
  • Institution-building: Long-time chairmanship of MATI, fostering private-sector collaboration on standards, training and policy.
  • Regional footprint: Leadership roles in hospitality ventures beyond the Maldives, including Mahaweli Reach Hotels.

Maniku had been hospitalised in Singapore for several weeks prior to his passing; local media had reported his transfer to intensive care at Mount Elizabeth Hospital.

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