Awards
OBLU NATURE Helengeli and OBLU SELECT Sangeli earn top honours in Tripadvisor’s 2025 rankings
Lifestyle hospitality brand COLOURS OF OBLU has received global recognition as two of its standout resorts earn prestigious accolades in the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards 2025.
OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO has been awarded the coveted Best of the Best title, placing it among the top 1% of hotels worldwide, as rated by travellers on Tripadvisor. Another of the brand’s resorts, OBLU SELECT Sangeli, has also achieved distinction, securing a place among the top 10% of hotels globally. These honours are based on authentic, first-hand guest reviews over the past 12 months, underscoring COLOURS OF OBLU’s steadfast commitment to heartfelt hospitality and exceptional guest experiences.
Alain Trefois, General Manager of OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO, commented on the achievement, noting that “there’s a special kind of magic in Helengeli’s coral-rich waters, vibrant house reef, and soulful island life – a sense of wonder that guests connect with deeply.” Trefois emphasised that the award is a celebration of the passion, care, and genuine warmth the team brings to every guest’s journey, blending marine adventure with relaxed Maldivian charm.
Renowned as one of the best dive spots in North Malé Atoll, OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO invites guests to dive and snorkel in its spectacular house reef, conveniently accessible from the island’s shores. A recent transformation of the resort introduced overwater villas, family-friendly accommodations, new culinary experiences, and a refreshed design that seamlessly combines barefoot luxury with a sense of exploration.
The resort’s team continually enhances the guest experience with fresh ideas. Upcoming highlights include Bodegas Martín Códax wine events this August and pioneering collaborations with TGI Maldives, PADI, and ELE|NA Ayur for the inaugural Women’s Dive Month this July, which blends ocean exploration with wellness and relaxation. Throughout July, all travellers can enjoy 20% off stays, along with exclusive savings of up to 20% on dives and selected healing treatments at ELE|NA Ayur spa for women.
At OBLU SELECT Sangeli, General Manager Jenni Hartatik reflected on the recognition, saying, “Sangeli has always been about balancing serenity with lively experiences – from island-chic private villas to pool parties and a delectable dine-around experience. What makes this recognition so meaningful is that it comes straight from our guests. It tells us we’re getting it right – that the Sangeli spirit, brought to life by our dedicated team, leaves a lasting impression.”
Situated on the North-Western tip of Malé Atoll, OBLU SELECT Sangeli is an all-inclusive haven catering to both couples and families. With distinct zones for adults-only and family-friendly experiences, the resort offers vibrant dining options, an overwater spa, and curated experiences that celebrate island life. The resort’s lively atmosphere, contemporary design, and focus on joyful moments make it a favourite for those seeking a stylish yet laid-back escape.
In line with its eco-conscious ethos, OBLU SELECT Sangeli is Green Globe Gold certified and home to a thriving coral conservation garden. The resort recently unveiled a state-of-the-art underwater camera that streams live footage of the reef directly to guest villas, bringing the marine world closer for all visitors, including those who may not snorkel or dive. Looking ahead, Sangeli is set to elevate its culinary offering with a curated selection of exclusive dining concepts and an exciting global wine brand partnership – a first for the Maldives – promising to impress even the most discerning palates.
Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi wins Best Waterside Hotel at Condé Nast Johansens Awards 2026
Coco Bodu Hithi has been recognised on the global stage, winning Best Waterside Hotel (Riverside, Lakeside, Seaside) at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2026, held on 3 November 2025 in the UK. It is the second consecutive year the resort has been honoured by the publication, following last year’s win for Best Service, reaffirming its focus on heartfelt Maldivian hospitality and refined island living.
Described by Condé Nast Johansens as an “over-water, over-indulgent Maldivian island outpost,” Coco Bodu Hithi offers an intimate retreat of comfort and calm. The resort’s 32 Water Villas and 24 Coco Residences, each measuring 184 square metres and featuring private pools, provide secluded spaces set above the lagoon, where nature, design, and comfort come together to reflect the island’s romantic ambience.
Known for contemporary design infused with Maldivian heritage, the resort continues to welcome travellers seeking time by the sea, complemented by culinary collaborations with celebrity and Michelin-starred chefs. The experience balances privacy and comfort throughout a guest’s stay. With turquoise waters, quiet spaces, and experiences designed for connection and shared discovery, the resort presents a considered take on island living.
Located 35 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, the island combines accessibility with seclusion—close enough for convenience, yet removed for privacy and serenity. As part of Coco Collection, the resort offers bespoke experiences, attentive service, and sustainable practices, shaping stays that feel personal and reflective of relaxed, authentic island life.
Awards
Ifuru Island Maldives wins Best Luxury Beach Property at Seven Stars Awards 2025
Ifuru Island Maldives has been named Best Luxury Beach Property at the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards 2025, held in Portugal. The recognition highlights the resort’s commitment to redefining barefoot luxury, delivering exceptional guest experiences and showcasing authentic Maldivian hospitality.
The Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards, often described as the “Oscars of Luxury”, honour only the most outstanding properties and brands worldwide. Receiving this accolade positions Ifuru Island Maldives among the world’s leading destinations, recognised for its focus on service excellence, innovation and guest satisfaction.
“We are deeply honoured to receive this award,” said Marcel Sawyer, General Manager of Ifuru Island Maldives. “It reflects the passion and dedication of our incredible All Star team, who create memorable experiences for our guests every single day. This win not only celebrates our property but also the spirit of the Maldives — warm, genuine and unforgettable.”
Located in the pristine Raa Atoll, Ifuru Island Maldives offers a blend of barefoot elegance and meaningful connection. The resort’s premium all-inclusive concept, world-class dining and vibrant experiences are designed to immerse guests in the joy and beauty of island life.
This global recognition further strengthens Ifuru Island Maldives’ reputation as one of the country’s most inspiring luxury destinations, where each moment is crafted with care, creativity and authenticity.
Awards
Multiple wins for JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll at World Luxury Travel Awards 2025
JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort is celebrating its success at the 2025 World Luxury Travel Awards, where it has been honoured with multiple titles, including Luxury Beach Resort and Luxury Villa Resort. These accolades reaffirm its position as one of the world’s distinguished luxury destinations and highlight the resort’s dedication to exceptional service, innovative design and memorable guest experiences in the heart of the Indian Ocean.
Nestled in the Emboodhu Finolhu lagoon, just 15 minutes from Velana International Airport, the five-star resort received further prestigious recognition across several categories, strengthening its reputation as a premier luxury destination in the region. The resort was named Best Luxury New Resort in the Indian Ocean, Best Luxury Family Beach Resort in the Maldives, and Best Luxury Island Resort as a Global Winner.
Complementing the resort’s success, Spa by JW also achieved international acclaim, receiving three awards that underscore its harmonious blend of tranquillity, contemporary innovation and exceptional design. The spa was recognised for Best Interior Design in the Indian Ocean, Best Luxury Oceanview Spa in the Indian Ocean, and Best Luxury Overwater Spa as a Global Winner.
“These honours reflect our team’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and personalised service to every guest,” said Srikanth Devarapalli, General Manager of JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort. “At our resort, modern luxury is complemented by authentic Maldivian warmth, where every detail — from design to service — is thoughtfully crafted to create memorable moments and meaningful connections.”
JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort offers a serene island escape with expansive overwater and beach pool villas, world-class dining and the award-winning Spa by JW, where guests are invited to unwind in complete serenity while enjoying panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
Established in 2006, the World Luxury Travel Awards celebrate excellence across all sectors of the luxury travel and tourism industry. The recognition of JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort among this year’s global winners further reinforces its status as one of the world’s leaders in luxury hospitality.
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