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Summer of romance ‘Avec Amour’ at Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa

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This summer, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa invites couples to embrace the romance of travel, linger a little longer, and fall in love all over again through its signature Avec Amour experiences. Whether celebrating a honeymoon in paradise, planning a dreamy island wedding, or escaping on a romantic retreat just because, a getaway is always a good idea at Le Méridien Maldives.

Inspired by the timeless elegance of European romance and the breathtaking beauty of the Indian Ocean, Avec Amour at Le Méridien Maldives is a heartfelt invitation to celebrate love in all its forms. Guests are welcomed to stay avec amour in beautifully appointed villas that blend mid-century modern aesthetics with a deep sense of place. Each offers uninterrupted ocean views, with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the horizon and reveal deep soaking bathtubs, perfect for candlelit rituals infused with the scent of the sea.

Romance unfolds effortlessly throughout the island experience. Mornings begin with floating breakfasts in the privacy of the villa’s private pool, while lazy afternoons lead to secluded beach picnics or starlit dinners featuring sparkling rosé and the soothing sound of waves. The newly unveiled Ocean Nest invites couples to unwind on a netted hammock suspended above the turquoise lagoon — transformed into a cosy retreat with soft duvets and pillows. Thoughtfully styled for romance, the setup is perfect for snuggling at sunset or stargazing under the Maldivian sky, complete with a curated chocolate platter and a chilled bottle of sparkling wine. An intimate experience made to savour avec amour.

Guests are invited on a journey of culinary discovery, from the intimacy of private teppanyaki at Tabemasu to the sustainability-driven Harvest Table experience. Ingredients are picked just metres from the plate, sourced from one of the largest greenhouses in the Maldives. It’s a dining journey that feels as fresh as it is intentional, where every shared meal celebrates conscious indulgence and the joy of savouring avec amour.

For those drawn to exploration, the resort’s house reef reveals a kaleidoscope of marine life, including turtles and shoals of tropical fish, best enjoyed hand-in-hand while snorkelling. Adventure continues with jetski rides alongside playful dolphins or cinema under the stars, while moments of relaxation await in Explore Spa. Set overwater, with glass floor panels and the gentle rhythm of the ocean below, the spa invites couples to pamper avec amour with treatments tailored for two. As the sun sets, the adults-only pool and bar at La Vie becomes a serene retreat, perfect for golden hour rosé, live music, or a relaxed sip and paint session.

Weddings and vow renewals find their place within this idyllic setting. From private beach proposals to underwater vow exchanges, each celebration is elevated by warm Maldivian traditions, rhythmic Boduberu drum performances, sunset cocktails, and the gentle hum of the ocean. The resort’s photographers capture every cherished moment, preserving them as treasured memories.

Set across 22 acres of lush tropical landscape, the eco-conscious haven was recently recognised as Best Honeymoon Resort in the Indian Ocean at the UK Weddings & Honeymoons Awards 2024, a reflection of its dedication to crafting once-in-a-lifetime romantic experiences. Whether toasting a milestone, rekindling a connection, or simply celebrating the joy of each other’s company, every stay is designed to travel avec amour.

This summer, embrace romance with the Romantique Honeymoon package, a carefully curated escape for couples beginning a new chapter. The offer includes a half board dining plan, a candlelit three-course beach dinner with sparkling rosé, a couple’s spa treatment, a couples’ photoshoot, in-villa romantic amenities, and more. Available to book with a minimum three-night stay, the package is valid for stays through 31 December 2025.

Featured

Mar-Umi at Kuda Villingili secures spot among world’s top wine restaurants

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Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has once again received the prestigious Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator’s 2025 Restaurant Awards, recognising the resort’s signature restaurant, Mar-Umi, for its exceptional wine programme and unwavering dedication to culinary excellence.

This accolade celebrates the efforts of the Mar-Umi team, who have carefully curated a wine list that complements the restaurant’s Nikkei and South American culinary offerings. The award, received for the second consecutive year, reflects the team’s commitment to delivering a refined dining experience that seamlessly integrates bold flavours with expertly selected wines.

Mar-Umi, inspired by the culinary traditions of Peru and Japan, offers an inventive menu of Nikkei and South American cuisine. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Lalith Sharma and Chef de Cuisine Ahmed Kamal, known as Chef Kimo, the restaurant presents South American dishes at lunch and Nikkei cuisine at dinner. The recent addition of a Teppanyaki experience further elevates the beachfront dining venue, combining expertly prepared dishes with engaging culinary showmanship.

The restaurant’s wine list is further enriched by an impressive range of sake, thoughtfully paired by Chief Sommelier Samantha Kumara, whose expertise enhances the overall dining journey at Mar-Umi.

Located along a tranquil stretch of beach, the restaurant offers panoramic views of the turquoise lagoon—an idyllic setting in which guests can savour artfully prepared dishes and cocktails from the Mar-Umi bar, created by skilled mixologists.

Marvin R. Shanken, Editor and Publisher of Wine Spectator, remarked on the significance of the award, noting, “A wine list is a restaurant’s identity in print, and this year’s Wine Spectator Restaurant Award winners reflect both deep knowledge and a passion for discovery.” A total of 3,811 restaurants worldwide were honoured in this year’s awards.

Launched in 1981, the Wine Spectator Restaurant Awards are the only global awards dedicated exclusively to restaurant wine service. They are presented in three tiers: the Award of Excellence, the Best of Award of Excellence, and the Grand Award, with 2,010; 1,704; and 97 winners respectively in 2025. Mar-Umi’s Award of Excellence recognises a wine list that showcases a well-considered selection of quality producers and a strong thematic alignment with the menu in both pricing and style.

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Drink

Sun Siyam Vilu Reef’s Nautilus Bar returns: An icon reimagined

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Sun Siyam Vilu Reef has unveiled the newly renovated Nautilus Bar, a reimagined oceanfront haven designed to capture the timeless elegance of the nautilus shell and the laid-back luxury of island life. Elevated, refined, and more inviting than ever, this refreshed space is set to reclaim its spot as the resort’s most coveted destination for sunset cocktails and starlit conversations.

Perfectly poised above the turquoise waters, the new Nautilus Bar blends sophisticated barefoot charm with uninterrupted Indian Ocean views, offering a multisensory experience that is both serene and indulgent. Guests can expect a menu as vibrant as the views, from craft cocktails and tropical bites to wholesome smoothies and indulgent milkshakes. Every element has been thoughtfully curated to evoke a sense of relaxation and connection with the island’s natural rhythm.

“Perched above the ocean with nothing but the horizon in view, The Nautilus Bar is one of those rare places where time seems to slow down. It is not just a bar—it is where you can swing gently in a hammock, sip a perfectly crafted cocktail, and lose yourself in the colours of a Maldivian sunset. It is one of my favourite spots on the island, and I truly believe it captures the soul of what makes Sun Siyam Vilu Reef so special,” shared Thoha Yoosuf, Resort Manager, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef.

This transformation was thoughtfully envisioned by Studio Sixty7, whose designers Jose Rivero and Lee McNichol reimagined every detail to honor the laid-back spirit of the Maldives with contemporary refinement.

“Our design ethos was all about creating a home-away-from-home feeling, only with your feet in the white sands. Fully upholstered lounge chairs and oversized, low-slung sofas invite guests to unwind in a relaxed, barefoot-luxury setting. At the heart of the space is an organically carved bar set into white plaster walls, with Calacatta marble countertops and bespoke joinery adding a subtle sense of indulgence. To create visual impact, we introduced oversized rope pendants that draw the eye upward and emphasise the generous scale of the space. The relaxed aesthetic continues onto the extended decking, where new hanging nets and pops of bright aqua add energy against the neutral backdrop, blending beautifully with the natural surroundings. It’s a space where guests can fully immerse themselves in peace and tranquility, while still experiencing the refined spirit of Maldivian luxury,” explain Lee & Jose, Founders and Creative Directors of Studio Sixty7.

Whether you arrive for an early evening apéritif, a hammock-side escape, or a quiet moment beneath the stars, The Nautilus Bar invites guests to pause, savor, and simply be.

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Family

Island living redefined: Le Méridien Maldives offers enriching family retreat

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Set against the backdrop of a tranquil lagoon and unspoilt beaches on the private island of Thilamaafushi in Lhaviyani Atoll, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa provides an ideal setting for multigenerational travel. Emphasising connection, creativity, and discovery, the resort offers families a tropical haven where shared moments unfold effortlessly—from the stillness of sunrise to the warm hues of Au Soleil’s golden hour.

The resort presents two-bedroom beachfront and overwater villas, thoughtfully designed to balance privacy with shared living. Each villa comprises a master bedroom and twin room, a private pool, indoor and outdoor lounge areas, and direct access to either the lagoon or the shoreline. For those seeking greater exclusivity, the three-bedroom Thilamaafushi Beach Villa delivers an expansive indoor-outdoor living experience, complete with a private beach, infinity pool, Jacuzzi, and direct access to the turquoise sea—ideal for larger family holidays or special occasions.

Families are encouraged to build their days around meaningful activities, with curated experiences tailored to all ages. Guests may snorkel the vibrant house reef, take a dolphin cruise, or engage in friendly matches on the padel court. Evenings bring a sense of togetherness, with karaoke, bingo, and open-air cinema creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere.

Le Méridien’s sun-drenched Au Soleil offers a vibrant gathering space for families to enjoy live music, refreshments, and signature treats. Poolside games and summery beverages are served alongside ocean vistas, while children can savour Le Scoop homemade gelato in a laid-back beachfront setting—an ideal stop between island escapades.

Reinforcing the resort’s dedication to sustainability, the Marine Conservation Hub provides an engaging educational experience for guests of all ages. Families can explore the local marine ecosystem with the resident biologists and take part in hands-on conservation efforts during their visit.

The Greenhouse, one of the Maldives’ largest hydroponic gardens, complements these efforts. Guests are invited to participate in the Family Foraging experience, where they can learn about hydroponic farming, harvest fresh produce together, and enjoy a communal Harvest Table—an experience designed to spark curiosity and environmental mindfulness in younger guests.

At the Le Méridien Family Kids Hub, children are immersed in a world of creative learning. This vibrant space hosts a variety of daily activities including arts and crafts, junior mixology classes, marine awareness sessions, and a signature kids’ night camping experience. While children are engaged, parents can unwind at the overwater Explore Spa, join a Sip & Paint session at La Vie bar, or enjoy bespoke destination dining. Babysitting services are also available for toddlers and infants, ensuring parents can enjoy peaceful moments throughout their stay.

The resort’s six restaurants and bars offer diverse dining experiences suited to every palate. Mediterranean cuisine is served at Riviera, while Japanese specialities and Teppanyaki are featured at Tabemasu. Velaa Bar + Grill offers wood-fired pizzas, and Turquoise provides a broad international menu. Each venue delivers a unique culinary journey, blending global flavours with locally sourced ingredients.

With sweeping views of the ocean and soft white sands, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa promises an enriching family escape where connection, exploration, and joy are seamlessly woven into each day.

Families booking the Family Adventure offer will enjoy a range of added benefits, including complimentary stays and meals for children under 12, daily half-board for the whole family, access to the Kids Hub, daily marine education sessions, non-motorised watersports, and more. The offer is available for bookings and stays through to 31 December 2025.

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