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Gili Lankanfushi commits to seagrass meadow conservation

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Gili Lankanfushi, a pioneer of sustainable barefoot luxury in the Maldives, has reinforced its dedication to marine conservation through an ambitious seagrass preservation initiative. As part of its long-standing sustainability efforts, the resort has pledged to conserve 1,250m² of seagrass within its lagoon—representing more than 80% of the area’s total seagrass coverage.

This significant commitment was announced at the recent Seagrass Industry Leaders Circle launch event, held on Dhiffushi Island in Kaafu Atoll. The gathering brought together representatives from 17 leading resorts, each pledging to protect seagrass meadows—often referred to as the ‘lungs of the sea’ due to their essential role in carbon capture and supporting marine life.

Gili Lankanfushi’s pledge was delivered by resident Marine Biologist and Sustainability Manager, Renald Yude, who highlighted the ecological importance of seagrass ecosystems. “Seagrass plays a vital role in carbon sequestration, biodiversity support, and coastal protection,” he stated. “Preserving this habitat is not only essential for marine health but also a vital step in our global climate response.”

The resort’s approach to conservation is grounded in scientific research and regular monitoring. Yude and his team conduct standardised quadrat-based surveys to assess canopy height, algal cover, sediment type, species composition, and wildlife sightings. These studies ensure a data-driven understanding of the health and development of the seagrass meadows, which serve as nurseries and sanctuaries for species such as turtles, rays, seahorses, and juvenile reef fish.

Gili Lankanfushi’s involvement in the July 2025 event underscores its leadership in marine conservation across the Maldives. Organised by Maldives Resilient Reefs and the Blue Marine Foundation, and officially inaugurated by the Maldives’ Deputy Minister of Tourism and Environment, the event included a pledge-signing ceremony and educational workshops focused on the importance of protecting seagrass ecosystems.

Beyond seagrass preservation, Gili Lankanfushi continues to champion a wide range of sustainability initiatives. The island’s Coral Lines project provides a nursery for coral restoration, allowing new corals to grow and be reintroduced to the reef. Guests are invited to engage with this initiative, learning about coral rehabilitation and even adopting corals as part of the programme.

The island’s commitment to sustainability extends to its infrastructure and daily operations. All villas are built using sustainably sourced materials such as plantation teak, bamboo, palm wood, and recycled telegraph poles. Toiletries are offered in refillable ceramic containers to reduce plastic use, while a dedicated desalination plant supplies all drinking water in reusable glass bottles.

Partnerships with organisations such as the Manta Trust and the Olive Ridley Project further support the protection of vulnerable marine species, including manta rays and injured sea turtles. The resort also prioritises sustainable fishing practices, works to minimise single-use plastics, and provides sustainability training for all staff.

Located in the pristine North Malé Atoll, just 20 minutes by speedboat from Malé International Airport, Gili Lankanfushi offers a serene retreat for couples, families, and solo travellers alike. With its eco-conscious ethos, stunning natural setting, and signature ‘no news, no shoes’ philosophy, the resort remains a benchmark for responsible luxury in the Maldives.

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Ayada Maldives presents Easter week of family and wellness activities

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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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Sun Siyam Vilu Reef marks International Women’s Day with beach celebration

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Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, part of the Sun Siyam Resorts Privé Collection, marked International Women’s Day by celebrating the contributions of female team members and guests, recognising their role in shaping the experiences that define the island.

The resort hosted a white-themed sunset cocktail gathering on the beach on 8 March, where guests and female colleagues came together to mark the occasion. The event provided an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of women across various roles within the resort.

Sun Siyam Vilu Reef highlighted the role of its female team members in delivering guest experiences, from operational support and administrative roles to culinary and guest service positions. The resort noted that these contributions play a significant role in shaping the overall guest journey on the island.

As part of the evening’s programme, the resort’s resident artist conducted a live painting session, reflecting the creativity and energy women bring to the hospitality sector. Guests were also served a selection of specially curated “White Theme” cocktails prepared by the resort’s bartending team to mark the occasion.

Commenting on the celebration, Thoha Yoosuf said the resort’s female colleagues bring intuition and warmth to their roles, helping create memorable experiences for guests. He added that the celebration recognised their dedication, leadership and commitment.

Through the event, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef highlighted the diverse roles played by women within its team, while recognising the culture and individuality that contribute to the resort’s working community.

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Angsana Velavaru plans Easter weekend of activities and dining

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Angsana Velavaru is inviting guests to celebrate Easter with a two-day island programme featuring family activities, ocean experiences and seasonal dining from 4 to 5 April 2026.

Located within a lagoon in South Nilandhe Atoll, the resort will host a series of activities designed for families, couples and travellers seeking a seasonal getaway by the sea. The programme includes a combination of wellness sessions, marine experiences and leisure activities intended to bring guests together during the Easter holiday period.

Mornings begin with yoga sessions overlooking the lagoon, followed by opportunities to explore the island’s marine environment through guided snorkelling excursions and discovery experiences organised by the Endheri Marine Centre.

Throughout the day, guests can take part in a range of recreational activities across the island. These include beach kite flying, aqua aerobics sessions and bird feeding at the island’s sanctuary. Adventure-focused experiences are also available, with water sports such as family tube rides and sunset cruises offering guests the opportunity to explore the surrounding lagoon.

Dining experiences form a central part of the Easter programme. Guests can participate in interactive activities including cocktail-making sessions and the Wok & Toss dining experience, which allows visitors to engage with the resort’s culinary team. The programme also includes Easter buffet lunch and dinner at Kaani Restaurant, where seasonal dishes are served in a relaxed island setting.

Evening entertainment includes live music performances, DJ sessions and outdoor film screenings under the stars, creating a relaxed atmosphere for guests to gather and socialise.

Children’s activities are organised through the Ranger’s Club, where a dedicated Easter programme features creative workshops such as bunny mask making, Easter egg painting and string art. Traditional activities including Easter egg hunts and beach races are also planned for younger guests.

The Easter programme at Angsana Velavaru combines marine exploration, family-friendly activities and seasonal dining experiences, offering guests an opportunity to celebrate the holiday while enjoying the island’s natural surroundings.

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