News
Anantara Veli Maldives Resort launches artist in residence programme with Cambodia-based artist FONKi
The endless blue horizon, sun-kissed shores and kaleidoscopic underwater world at Anantara Veli Maldives Resort sparked a creative awakening for Cambodian-based artist, FONKi as the adult-only resort hosts its first Artist in Residence.
Born in Paris to Khmer refugee parents and raised in Montreal, FONKi is a dynamic artist renowned for blending contemporary street art with traditional Cambodian influences. He is also the curator and owner of FT Gallery in Phnom Penh and the founder of Murals for Cambodia Festival, fostering local talents and elevating Phnom Penh as a thriving art hub in Southeast Asia.
As an avid comic book and graphic novel fan, FONKi started his artistic journey in graffiti at age 15. “I remember in school, I would volunteer to do murals around the school grounds in hopes of getting the funds to buy the best spray paints to practice and get better,” FONKi reminisces.
A turning point in his artistic approach happened in 2012, when then a film student FONKi embarked on the making of an award-winning documentary ‘The Roots Remain’, which follows his journey back to Cambodia to paint a mural honouring his relatives killed in the genocide. This experience led to an immersion in his heritage and the discovery of an artistic renaissance happening in post-genocide Cambodia.
From walls to canvas, FONKi has produced over a hundred creative projects, including murals admired across America, Europe and Asia. At Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, he transformed the guest lounge into his creative space for a week, where he created an exclusive artwork titled ‘Enlightenment’ as a tribute to ancient Maldivian relics and nature. The artwork is part of a diptych inspired by a 10th-century Buddha statue made of coral stone, excavated in Thodoo Island in North Ari Atoll.
Statues have been a significant subject in FONKi’s body of work, he regards them as opening doors to the complex history and culture of the place. “Statues are testimony to time. I resonate with the story of the artifact that even destroyed, its energy still endures, and I wanted to represent that,” explained FONKi.
Titled ‘Enlightenment’, one side of the painting features half of the statue’s face, while the other captures the vibrant hues of the coral reefs, expressed in a burst of colours and fluid lines inspired by the lively underwater ecosystem.
“I’ve filtered my experience here in paradise and translated the colours into my piece. During my time here, I learned about the sustainable practices to rehabilitate the coral reefs, and in some ways, the artwork talks about the revival of nature to its true form after it’s been destroyed.”
“It’s been six years since I last painted for myself. In terms of art therapy, I’m more relaxed here and it’s influenced by the brush strokes, colour choices, movement, and it all feels organic. I was able to explore a watercolour effect in my piece and created a scene like that of a dreamscape,” he reflects.
Committed to paying it forward, full proceeds from the sale of ‘Enlightenment’ will benefit the Granny Programme of the Cambodia Children’s Fund (CCF), a non-profit organisation that provides education, safe housing and care to vulnerable communities. The support towards the Granny Programme is a continuation of his previous project, ‘Apsara Grannies’, where he collaborated with photographer, Raphaël Pech and fellow artist, TONES, featuring a mural of the grannies dressed in traditional Apsara attire. This was commissioned by the Royal Government of Cambodia last New Year.
In addition to his original masterpiece, FONKi also featured his limited-edition art prints ‘Behind The Smile’ and ‘King Creator’ from a triptych series he created in 2019 based on King Jayavaraman VII one of the powerful monarchs of the Khmer empire, whose serene face is seen around Bayon Temple in Angkor. During the residency, guests not only had the opportunity to witness FONKi’s creative process up close, but they also collaborated with him by embellishing the prints with their personal touch before bringing the limited edition prints home.
FONKi’s exhibition is open to view from today until 31 December at Anantara Veli. The Artist in Residence programme of Anantara Veli Maldives Resort adds another artistic dimension to the adults-only hideaway, gathering talents around the world to express their creativity and channel inspiration in a surreal setting.
Family
From egg hunts to island feasts: Easter at Centara Maldives Resorts
As spring prepares to cast its golden glow over the Maldives, Centara Resorts & Hotels is gearing up for another egg-ceptional Easter celebration. With four distinct island escapes to discover, guests can settle into a rhythm that suits them, as vibrant festivities unfold across Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection & Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives. Thoughtfully curated for families, couples, and wellness seekers, each resort brings together indulgent feasts, playful Easter traditions, and soothing spa rituals, creating a getaway that feels joyful, immersive, and unmistakably Maldivian.
Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives: A Grand Easter Celebration
Located within The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives’ Easter celebration blends elegance with picturesque turquoise lagoons and pristine beaches. Encouraging guests of all ages to embrace the spirit of the holiday, the property presents a full schedule of themed experiences from April 1st to 5th, spanning thoughtfully designed children’s activities, serene wellness moments, and evening entertainment.
Little ones can spring into the festivities with Easter-inspired fun, such as painting colourful eggs, decorating cookies, tackling an Easter Obstacle Course at the kids’ pool, and searching the island for hidden surprises with a classic Easter egg scavenger hunt. Teens are also well catered to with regular team-based challenges, relay races, and karaoke nights, all designed to keep them active and engaged. Guests can also bring the whole family together over cosy movie nights, high-energy beach games, or gather for the Grand Bingo Evening for some friendly competition.
Extending the experience beyond the shores, the Family Coral Adventure allows guests of all ages to help restore the reef and learn more about marine life, while parasailing, semi-submarine discovery, and guided snorkelling offer unforgettable ways to explore the island’s vibrant waters from every perspective. Those looking to try something new can also get moving with a lively Aqua Zumba class, ease into the morning with a sunset yoga session, or attend a hands-on sushi masterclass. Rounding out this action-packed escape, guests can hop over to The Gallery for a lavish Easter Sunday feast featuring international flavours and plenty of live music.
Giving families space to relax and recharge in between the festivities, the tranquil SPA Cenvaree retreat presents an exclusive Easter experience. Unwind together with a tranquil ritual crafted to restore and reconnect, where one adult enjoys a 60-minute treatment while a little one is treated to a soothing 30-minute session of their own.
When: From April 1st to 5th
Price: Villas starting from USD 800++ for a couple on Full Board basis
For bookings and more information, please email cglm@chr.co.th. To view the full festive schedule, click here.
Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives: Easter Magic with Uncle Octopus & Island Friends
Also situated within The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives is an enchanting, underwater-themed paradise, where guests can celebrate Easter alongside the Easter Bunny, Uncle Octopus, Madame Stingray, and all your favourite island friends. Framed by golden sands and sparkling lagoons, the resort’s festive programme is bursting with creative workshops, ocean adventures, creative challenges, and festive family moments, each matching the magic of the occasion.
Starting on April 1st, younger guests can dive into the festivities with Bunny Splash Pool Games at Octo Splash or enjoy some competitive fun with family-friendly games at the beach. Older kids can also join a thrilling guided snorkelling excursion and get creative with canvas painting at The Sailhouse, before settling down for a laid-back outdoor movie night. The next morning, spring straight into action with island-inspired ornament making, roll up your sleeves for a spring roll masterclass bursting with fresh flavours, and wind down at sunset with a serene yoga session.
Once the weekend arrives, seize the opportunity to explore the deep blue and support marine life with a family-friendly reef restoration adventure or soar above the lagoon with an adrenaline-fuelled parasailing adventure. On land, little ones can drift through an Uncle Octopus–led lazy river race or set off with the Easter Bunny on a playful island scavenger hunt, while families join a beachside football match and teens close the evening with a lively bingo night. Saturday, April 4th, continues the celebrations with Acqua Zumba, intricate henna designs inspired by island motifs, a crêpe-making masterclass, and a traditional Maldivian sunset fishing experience out on the open water.
Finally, on Easter Sunday, The Sailhouse plays host to a delightful buffet filled with international flavours that promises to please even the fussiest eaters. Afterwards, unwind with a tote bag painting session or continue the festive fun with a lively Easter pool party for the whole family.
In addition to exciting island adventures, the resort also encourages moments of shared relaxation through a special Easter Family Bliss experience. Taking place at the tranquil SPA Cenvaree and the playful Candy Spa, parents enjoy a soothing 60-minute body massage while little island explorers are treated to a fun chocolate body wrap and a mini 30-minute massage.
When: From April 1st to 5th
Price: Leading room starting from USD 546++ for a couple on Full Board basis
For bookings and more information, please email cmlm@chr.co.th. To view the full festive schedule, click here.
Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection: A Machchafushi Easter
This Easter, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection, presents an egg-citing Easter and Orthodox Easter programme centred around connection and celebration. Kicking off on April 4th, each day brings something new for young guests to enjoy, with a junior mocktail class, Easter-themed crafts, scavenger hunts, and colourful face painting. Alternatively, embrace the spirit of adventure as a family by getting involved in Easter egg painting, Easter basket making, a beach volleyball match, or enjoying beach games such as sack races, egg spoon races, and balloon fights that promise endless laughs.
As for entertainment, the resort will be alive with festive energy throughout the holiday, beginning with a spectacular Machchafushi Easter Parade on Easter Sunday featuring the Easter Bunny and traditional Boduberu performers. Another highlight takes place on April 12th, with an unforgettable DJ performance under the stars at Coral Bar. For a more relaxed evening, the resort will also host an Easter-themed movie night by the beach on April 4th.
Ensuring no two days of your Easter escape taste the same, guests can also look forward to a variety of unique dining experiences, beginning with ‘A Sweet Prelude to Easter’, serving a selection of fine teas and delicate pastries. Later, on Easter Sunday, ease into the festivities with a generous breakfast spread at The Reef, before toasting to the occasion with an indulgent brunch brimming with seasonal favourites. As Orthodox Easter unfolds, evenings are best spent sipping sundowners or settling into a vibrant beachside BBQ filled with smoky flavours, lively entertainment, and the warm rhythm of the island after dark.
When: From April 4th to 12th
Price: Villas staring from USD 545++ for couple on Full Board basis
For bookings and more information, please email cirm@chr.co.th. To view the full festive schedule, click here.
Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives: An Easter Curated for You and Yours
As Centara Resorts & Hotels Maldives’ adults-only paradise, Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives sets the tone for an Easter escape shaped by tranquillity, privacy, and uninterrupted ocean horizons. Taking place on April 5th and 12th, the programme pairs relaxed, creative traditions such as beachside egg painting with elevated culinary experiences designed for couples and friends seeking an elevated celebration. Easter Sunday is marked with a refined BBQ served steps from the water, where flame-grilled specialities and live music create an intimate yet lively atmosphere, while Orthodox Easter brings a thoughtfully crafted multi-course dinner by the shore.
When: April 5th & 12th
Price: Villas staring from USD 465++ for couple on Full Board basis
For bookings and more information, please email crf@chr.co.th. To view the full festive schedule, click here.
News
InterContinental Maldives introduces sleep well experiences for World Sleep Day
In celebration of World Sleep Day on 13 March 2026, InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort introduces an enhanced series of sleep-focused wellness experiences, reinforcing the growing global shift toward restorative travel and mindful living.
Building on its established Sleep Well offering, the resort unveils a new Sleep Well Turndown Programme, a thoughtfully curated evening ritual designed around the five senses to guide guests into deeper, more restorative rest. From the gentle dimming of lights and naturally breathable linens to calming aromatherapy, tranquil soundscapes and indulgent dark chocolate, each element is carefully designed to prepare the body and mind for quality sleep in the serenity of the island setting.
Guests may further enhance their rest through the resort’s Sleep Enhancement Kit, featuring soothing oils, pillow mist, aromatherapy balms and calming candles crafted to create a peaceful bedtime ritual that continues beyond the stay.
Marking the occasion, AVI Spa also presents a dedicated Sleep Week Programme from 13–19 March 2026, inviting guests to rediscover the art of rest through structured wellness experiences designed to restore natural sleep rhythms.
Highlights include:
- The Sleep Guru Programme: A multi-day guided wellness journey combining therapeutic treatments, relaxation techniques and personalised sleep-support rituals to improve deep recovery and emotional balance.
- Nightly Sleep Ritual with Visiting Practitioner Brad Reed: Acalming evening session featuring gentle bodywork, guided breathwork and a soothing sound bath to help the nervous system settle into deep rest.
- Sleep Enhancement Kit: A curated in-villa collection designed to quiet the mind and create the perfect pre-sleep environment.
Set against the tranquil backdrop of Raa Atoll, where natural stillness meets intuitive hospitality, these experiences reflect a modern understanding of luxury, where true indulgence lies in the ability to rest deeply and wake restored.
For full programme details, please view the Sleep Well brochure here.
Family
Ayada Maldives presents Easter week of family and wellness activities
Ayada Maldives has announced a series of experiences to mark the Easter season, inviting guests to celebrate the occasion through a week of activities centred on family time, relaxation and shared island moments.
As the season approaches, the resort will host a programme designed to create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for guests. Families are encouraged to spend time together in the island’s natural surroundings, while children take part in a variety of activities and explore the island environment.
Throughout the week, Easter-themed experiences will be integrated into daily island life. At the Zuzuu Kids Club, younger guests will have access to a range of creative and interactive activities designed to encourage imagination and discovery. Meanwhile, adults can take advantage of wellness experiences including sunrise yoga sessions, spa treatments at AySpa, and quiet moments by private pools or along the beach.
Evenings will feature a range of social and culinary experiences, including beachside gatherings, live music and dining events set against the island’s coastal setting. These activities are intended to create a relaxed yet festive environment for guests to come together and enjoy the Easter holiday.
According to the resort, the Easter programme focuses on creating opportunities for guests to reconnect with family and friends while enjoying the island’s surroundings. The celebrations are designed to highlight shared experiences rather than a single event, allowing guests to enjoy the season at their own pace.
Through the programme, Ayada Maldives aims to offer visitors an opportunity to celebrate Easter in a setting defined by natural beauty, hospitality and time spent together.
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