News
Exclusive private island escape at Intercontinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort
Nestled within its own pristine lagoon on the serene southernmost tip of Raa Atoll, on the edge of a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort announces an extraordinary opportunity: the option to hire the entire island for an exclusive, unparalleled private paradise experience. For the first time, guests can indulge in a fully customised luxury retreat, whether for a romantic escape, a multigenerational family holiday, or an unforgettable gathering with friends for a special occasion.
A Bespoke Private Island Experience
The opportunity for a complete buyout allows guests to immerse themselves in the island’s microcosm, with total privacy and the freedom to tailor their experience exactly as they desire. The resort’s enviable position in the Raa Atoll, a dedicated manta ray sanctuary, offers unique access to one of the world’s most spectacular marine environments. The colourful coral house reef teems with black tip sharks and turtles, and manta rays are frequent visitors between December – April each year as they migrate between the atolls during the northeast monsoon months. Guests will have exclusive use of the resort’s on-site Manta Trust team, with private snorkelling and diving sessions tailored to their experience level. From swimming alongside majestic manta rays and whale sharks to curated excursions led by expert marine biologists, the possibilities for an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime experience are limitless.
Luxurious Accommodation & Personal Service
The resort boasts 81 Beach, Lagoon, and Overwater Villas and Residences, each thoughtfully designed to harmonise with the island’s natural beauty. Guests can choose from a variety of options, ranging from beach villas, overwater villas with infinity pools, and spacious beachfront residences. Allowing for a variety of room configurations and set-ups for different types of travellers, accommodation on the island is exquisite, with something for everyone in a group, whether they prefer to watch the sunset over the vast Indian Ocean laid out before them, or bask in morning bliss with sand beneath their toes from the first step outside the villa.
- Villas: Overwater Pool Villa, One Bedroom Lagoon Pool Villa, Sunset Overwater Pool Villa, One Bedroom Sunset Lagoon Pool Villa, Beach Pool Villa, Family Beach Pool Villa, One Bedroom Sunset Beach Pool Villa, Two Bedroom Family Lagoon Pool Villa, Two Bedroom Family Beach Pool Villa
- Residences: Two Bedroom Overwater Pool Residence, Two Bedroom Beachfront Pool Residence, Three Bedroom Overwater Pool Residence, Three Bedroom Lagoon Pool Residence, Three Bedroom Royal Beachfront Pool Residence
Every villa is appointed with expansive indoor and outdoor living spaces, a dedicated butler service, private pools, luxurious BYREDO amenities, and a signature pillow menu to ensure personalised comfort.
World-Class Culinary Experiences
Guests with exclusive island use will enjoy additional dining experiences. The resort’s gourmet culinary offerings showcase exquisite global flavours with a Maldivian touch, featuring:
- The Lighthouse Restaurant: A fine dining experience with 360-degree island views
- The Fish Market: An interactive sea-to-table kitchen where guests can select fresh seafood with guidance from expert chefs
- Café Umi: For whiling away the days underneath the palms, a casual dining experience at Café Umi offers a relaxed atmosphere
- Teppanyaki Experience: An exquisite fusion of Japanese-inspired dishes, cooked and served by master chefs
- The Wine Cellar: Private tastings featuring the world’s finest vintages, delivered by a master sommelier
- Sunset Bar: Champagne sommeliers and handcrafted cocktails make this overwater idyll an exceptional spot to watch the sun go down
- Pool Bar: Swim up and cool down with a cocktail at the Pool Bar, located in the main activity hub of the resort
- The Retreat: An adults-only enclave offering cocktails and finger food, alongside peace and serenity to those who escape here
- The Collective’s Culinary Classes: Hands-on cooking experiences for budding chefs at The Collective, a laid-back dining option and pizzeria
Guests booking an island buyout will have the option to personalise their dining experiences at every moment, with bespoke menus, themed banquets, and exclusive chef-curated dining under the stars. Anything is possible with the resort’s devoted culinary team.
Adventures Beyond Imagination
There are extensive activities available to guests which can all be curated with an Island Buyout experience. With things to do above and below the surface of the surrounding ocean, thrill-seekers and peace-seekers will be kept happy. The marine centre is open all day every day, and offers activities including snorkelling, fishing trips, boat cruises and even underwater photography. Windsurfing, motorised water sports, catamaran sailing and diving courses are also available for those looking to experience some adventure on the water.
- Ocean Activities: Dolphin cruises, sunrise fishing, night snorkelling, turtle safaris, boat rental, paddle boarding, PADI dive courses and much more!
- Watersports: Kayaking, Wakeboarding, Water Skiing, Jet Skiing, X Jet Blade, Parasailing
- Recreation Schedule: Can be completely tailored for Island Buyouts but includes aerial yoga, aqua aerobics, table tennis, sound healing
- Planet Trekkers Kids Club: Designed for children aged 4-12, Planet Trekkers blends interactive games, creative arts and crafts, and exciting mini expeditions, inspiring budding marine biologists and curious explorers alike
- Teen Programme: A dedicated teen activity offering including cooking classes, diver certification, young spa and more!
Finding Tranquility
AVI Spa is the resort’s wellness haven, offering guests a place to truly unwind and relax in an overwater setting. Perched above the tranquil waters of the Indian Ocean, the AVI Spa has been designed to inspire relaxation, rejuvenation, and restoration. Within its six light-filled treatment villas, the soothing sounds of the ocean set the stage for deep relaxation, as expert therapists guide guests through indulgent, holistic wellness rituals. With signature brands including Biologique Recherche, Eminence Organics, Margaret Dabbs London and Kerstin Florian, the spa offers an extensive treatment menu to suit all skincare and relaxation needs.
Seamless Arrival & Exclusive Buyout Inclusions
Upon arrival in Male, guests are welcomed by the resort’s Airport Representatives and escorted to the Seaplane Terminal, where the private InterContinental seaplane lounge awaits, for a seamless transfer to the island. For large group arrivals, the resort provides a dedicated concierge service to ensure smooth check-ins, luggage handling, and customised welcome experiences.
The exclusive island hire includes:
- Daily gourmet breakfast
- Complimentary use of resort facilities, including the Fitness Centre, Yoga Pavilion, and Planet Trekkers Kids’ Club
- Welcome amenities, including sparkling wine and a selection of sweet and savoury treats
- Complimentary non-motorised water activities and snorkelling equipment
Rates for exclusive island buyouts start from USD 1,6 million, inclusive of 17% GST, 10% Service Charge, and a Green Tax of USD 12 per person per night. For inquiries and reservations, please visit www.maldives.intercontinental.com or email reservations.icmaldives@ihg.com.
Family
Niva Dhigali Maldives hosts Easter festivities with Pastry Champion Florence Lesage
When it comes to Easter getaways, few destinations promise the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and family-friendly fun like Niva Dhigali Maldives. This Indian Ocean, Premium All-Inclusive paradise is a go-to destination for sun-seekers and families looking to unwind in tropical bliss, all while indulging in world-class cuisine and vibrant activities. From 28 March–12 April 2026, the island transforms into an Easter wonderland, offering a mix of festivities that will delight both kids and adults alike.
Niva Dhigali’s Easter celebrations add a layer of indulgence to this already magical setting. At the centre of this year’s event is French pastry sensation Florence Lesage, crowned the World Champion of Sweet Arts in 2022. Renowned for her intricate sugar creations, Florence will lead guests on a culinary adventure, culminating in an Easter brunch featuring her signature desserts that taste as exquisite as they look.

For families travelling with little ones, PLAY Kids Club offers plenty to keep the children entertained. Easter comes alive with a dolphin cruise with the Easter Bunny, a traditional Easter egg hunt along jungle trails, egg painting, and creative arts and crafts. There’s even a“Little Bunny” aromatherapy massage and facial tailored just for kids at the serene Niva Dhigali Spa – a rare treat that lets parents sneak in some much-deserved downtime. To top it off, children under 12 stay for free and families can enjoy complimentary water activities like tube rides.

Adventure seekers will also find plenty to love at Niva Dhigali. Beyond the festive fun, the resort offers guided snorkelling trips, allowing guests to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life that make the Maldives a bucket-list destination. Evenings are equally enchanting, with outdoor movie nights under the stars, poolside parties, and gourmet dining experiences that highlight the best of Maldivian and international cuisine.

For those who crave a tropical escape with a side of sophistication, Dhigali Maldives offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re sampling Florence Lesage’s decadent creations, exploring the underwater world, or simply soaking up the sunshine on the island’s idyllic beaches, Easter at Niva Dhigali is about creating cherished moments with loved ones. Add in the natural beauty of the Maldives, and this April getaway becomes more than just a holiday – it’s a memory families will treasure forever.

Niva Dhigali Maldives promises an unforgettable Easter escape. With its warm waters, vibrant celebrations, and indulgent treats, this tropical haven is the perfect place to savour the sweetness of spring.
For more information or reservations email: res.agent@dhigali.com or call +960 662 0100.
News
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Dhawa Ihuru honour women with curated experiences
This International Women’s Day, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru celebrate the important women in our lives through meaningful island experiences inspired by connection with self, nature and our loved ones.
The celebration begins beneath the surface of the sea with a Women’s Snorkelling Session, bringing guests from both resorts together for a guided exploration of the house reef. Guided by the resorts’ Marine Lab, explore vibrant coral gardens and observe marine life flourishing within one of the Maldives’ most carefully preserved reefs – a reflection of Banyan Group’s long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship since the island first welcomed guests more than three decades ago.
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru: A Day of Meaningful Connection to the Nature and Wellbeing
In the afternoon, Saffron presents a Women’s Day Cooking Class, where fragrant herbs and vibrant spices come together in a hands-on journey through authentic Thai flavours.
As the golden sunset colours the sky, a beachfront yoga session invites a moment of stillness. Guided by breath and gentle movement, the rhythm of the waves deepens your connection with nature and the beauty of being fully present.

In the evening, Sangu Garden, the resort’s beachfront restaurant, presents a Special Women’s Day Buffet Night, where live BBQ stations showcase freshly grilled seafood and international flavours beneath the evening sky. Ocean breezes, cosy ambience and the aroma of the grill create a warm tropical setting, while each female guest is welcomed with a special surprise gift during the evening.

Dhawa Ihuru: Vibrant Island Flavours
Across the lagoon, Dhawa Ihuru brings its lively island energy to the occasion with experiences designed for fun and connection.
Later in the day, after the snorkel safari to the house reef, savour a Women’s Day Special BBQ Lunch at Riveli Restaurant, where vibrant island flavours and international favourites come together in a lively beachfront setting.
In the afternoon, a Sri Lankan Cooking Class invites guests to discover bold spices and traditional techniques in a lively hands-on culinary experience.

Together, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru offer a meaningful way to celebrate the women who inspire us, through moments of exploring wellness, discovery and joyful connection surrounded by the natural beauty of the Maldives.
News
Fushifaru Maldives celebrates Women’s Day with art, community and ocean conservation focus
Fushifaru Maldives is marking International Women’s Day 2026 with a series of activities under the theme “Waves of Kindness – #GivetoGain,” celebrating empowerment, community and ocean conservation.
The programme reflects the resort’s message of being “Empowered by Kindness, Inspired by the Ocean,” bringing together guests and team members through art, appreciation and shared experiences.
As part of the celebrations, the resort will welcome artist Rachel Brooks, who will host a live art workshop on 7 March. During the session, Brooks will create a painting inspired by marine life, drawing attention to the colours and forms found beneath the ocean’s surface.
Her work highlights the connection between creativity and environmental awareness, emphasising the importance of protecting marine ecosystems. The workshop will also serve as an opportunity for guests and residents to engage with the artist and learn about the inspiration behind her work.
The celebrations will continue on 8 March with activities marking International Women’s Day alongside the resort’s residents and guests. The theme #GivetoGain focuses on mutual support, the creation of opportunities, and the empowerment of women through collaboration and shared encouragement.

In the evening, Fushifaru Maldives will host a Women’s Day Cocktail Party, where gentlemen will present roses to women on the island, including guests and team members. The gesture is intended as a sign of appreciation and respect.
The celebration will continue with a DJ evening, providing a setting for guests and staff to gather and mark the occasion together.
According to the resort, the event is also an opportunity to recognise the contribution of women within the Fushifaru community. Female guests, residents and team members from different backgrounds and cultures will be acknowledged as part of the celebrations.
The resort said the initiative reflects the diversity and individuality of the women who form part of the Fushifaru Maldives community, while reinforcing the broader message of kindness, empowerment and environmental awareness associated with this year’s International Women’s Day.
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