News
Autograph Collection Hotels debuts in Maldives with The Halcyon Private Isles: Signature retreat of individuality, immersion
Autograph Collection Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, has announced the opening of The Halcyon Private Isles Maldives, Autograph Collection. Inspired by the myth of Alcyone, the resort’s name evokes the “halcyon days” – a time of peace, golden light, and unhurried discovery. The Halcyon Private Isles Maldives, Autograph Collection invites guests to step into a modern-day retreat that honours the elegance of the past while embracing the individuality of the present.
Set amid the clear waters of Gaafu Alifu Atoll, about ninety minutes by seaplane from Malé, this resort marks the brand’s debut in the Maldives and introduces a refined expression of individuality – where discovery is reimagined through immersive experiences, intuitive service, and architectural craftsmanship. Located across two pristine private islands, fringed by vibrant coral garden and turquoise lagoons, The Halcyon Private Isles offers guests a rare opportunity to connect deeply with nature, heritage, and one another. Drawing inspiration from 19th-century explorer H.C.P. Bell, the resort honours the spirit of exploration and curiosity with timeless artistry and a distinct sense of place.
“The Halcyon Private Isles Maldives exemplifies the Autograph Collection ethos of individuality and immersive storytelling,” said Gautam Bhandari, Senior Vice President, Hotel Development & Operations for Singapore & Maldives, Marriott International. “From its exquisite design language to its intuitive service, every detail invites guests to slow down and engage meaningfully within the destination. It is a celebration of authenticity wrapped in refined elegance and thoughtful design.”

A Design Language of Stillness, Simplicity, and Soul
Intentionally crafted as a modern homage to the Maldivian seascape, the resort’s architecture flows with the rhythm of the ocean. A tranquil palette of grey-blues, natural timbers, and organic textures blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Open-plan spaces, floor-to-ceiling windows, and generous outdoor decks ensure uninterrupted ocean views with a connection between indoor and outdoor living. Handcrafted elements, inspired by island traditions and maritime heritage, evoke a sense of calm discovery throughout.

Spacious Villas: Secluded Sanctuaries for Modern Explorers
The Halcyon features 38 private villas, each an expansive sanctuary that combines thoughtful design with uncompromising comfort. Among the largest in the region, the villas range from 220 to over 1,250 square meters, offering abundant space for privacy, relaxation, and elevated island living. Guests may choose from a variety of accommodations, including:
- Island Villas – Nestled in tropical foliage, offering garden seclusion and direct beach access.
- Overwater Villas – Set above calm lagoons, with private decks and direct steps into the ocean.
- Two Bedroom Ocean Villas – Ideal for families or group travel, offering expansive living and dining spaces, multiple terraces, and uninterrupted ocean panoramas.
- The Halcyon Grand Estate – A three-bedroom modern manor, where gracious living commands the lagoon, including a rooftop terrace for effortless entertaining and direct lagoon access.
Each villa is a personal retreat, featuring private infinity pools and handcrafted interiors that reflect the island’s maritime heritage.




Butler Service: Personalised, Discreet, and Deeply Considered
From the moment of arrival, guests are paired with a dedicated Halcyon Butler – a discreet yet intuitive presence who orchestrates every element of the stay. Services include, but are not limited to:
- Curated guest itineraries tailored to individual interests, from sunrise rituals to stargazing sessions.
- Marine Butler-led excursions including private diving, snorkeling, and traditional line fishing.
- Bespoke in-villa dining with personalized menus crafted by the Executive Culinary Team.
- Customised wellbeing schedules including private yoga or meditation sessions, individually tailored spa treatments, and recovery therapies.
- Seamless coordination of milestone celebrations, private events, and surprise moments.
Whether arranging an uncharted island exploration, a rare bottle of wine, or a private poolside candlelit dinner, the butler ensures every request is graceful, intuitive, and a reflection of the resort’s dedication to craft.

Curated Culinary Experiences: Taste, Place, and Customisation
Dining at The Halcyon is a sensory journey and a curated expression of place, where flavour and storytelling converge. The resort brings quiet elegance and authenticity to island dining, with each course thoughtfully composed for the well-travelled palate. Guests can explore a variety of dining experiences that celebrate flavour and setting in equal measure. Thari, the all-day venue, serves international and island-inspired dishes, while Yuzu brings a refined blend of Peruvian and Japanese flavours to the lagoon’s edge. Evenings unfold beneath the stars at The Firepit, where chefs prepare flame-grilled specialties, or at Yapa Sunset Bar, known for creative cocktails, tapas, and freshly prepared sashimi with South American and Japanese influences. Bell Bar, named in honour of explorer H. C. P. Bell, captures the quiet glamour of a bygone age with signature cocktails and rare spirits that tell stories of journeys and discovery.
Beyond the main venues, guests can indulge in bespoke private dining experiences, curated to taste, tailored to dietary, cultural, or celebratory preference and chosen setting, creating lasting memories:
- In-Villa Dining – Multi-course menus designed by the Executive Culinary Team, served by candlelight on the terrace or floating in the villa’s private infinity pool.
- Beachfront Dinners – An on-the-beach setting beneath the stars, with tiki torch lights, fine wine pairings, and personalised décor.
- Overwater Dining Pavilions – Private decks with panoramic views, where every course is timed to the sunset and tide.
- Champagne Sandbank Experiences – Accessed by private boat, featuring chef-grilled cuisine, vintage Champagne, and unmatched privacy.

Immersive Discovery: Crafted for Curiosity
Echoing the spirit of the Golden Age of travel, The Halcyon’s curated experiences transport guests to a Maldives untouched by time. Led by marine experts and Halcyon Butlers, each journey is designed to leave a lasting imprint — whether exploring vibrant reefs with a Resident Marine Biologist, engaging in traditional line fishing aboard a Dhoni, or discovering the atoll through water sports and private charters. Young guests are invited into their own world of wonder through a supervised children’s programme that balances purpose and play. Activities include marine biology workshops, eco-focused beach games, and junior coral planting — all designed to spark curiosity and foster respect for the natural world.
Wellbeing in Rhythm with Nature
Beyond the overwater Halcyon Spa, the resort offers a holistic wellness programme rooted in natural balance and island wisdom, with offerings ranging from sunrise yoga and sound therapy to couples’ connection journeys that include energy balancing sessions and shared intention-setting rituals. Guests can also book full-day or multi-day wellness itineraries with personalised nutrition, movement, and sleep optimisation programme.

A Signature Maldivian Retreat by Autograph Collection
With its distinctive design, intuitive service, and extraordinary setting, The Halcyon Private Isles Maldives, Autograph Collection is a celebration of distinct perspective, immersive storytelling, and soulful design – Exactly Like Nothing Else. Here, every villa is a private retreat, every experience is tailored, and every moment invites deeper connection – with nature, with others, and with oneself.
The Halcyon Private Isles Maldives, Autograph Collection participates in Marriott Bonvoy®, the award-winning travel program from Marriott International, allowing members to earn and redeem points for their stay at the resort and across the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a personalised and seamless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind.
For reservations and more information, please visit the hotel’s website.
Family
JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa presents Easter season of dining, discovery
Easter at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa arrives as a season of renewal, set against a backdrop of turquoise waters and endless skies. From March 3 to 11, the resort unveils a carefully composed programme of culinary artistry and immersive experiences, designed for those seeking an elevated island retreat.
On this private sanctuary, Easter is reimagined as a time for gathering and reflection. For families, the resort’s Duplex Series, including the Two-Bedroom Duplex Beach Pool Villas and the Duplex Overwater Pool Villas, offers a sophisticated “home away from home.” These expansive, multi-level residences provide the space and privacy essential for multigenerational travel, ensuring that the joy of the season is shared in comfort beneath the open Maldivian skies.
The First Chapter: A Salutation to the Sea
The journey commences on Good Friday, April 3, with From the Sea. Hosted upon the Horizon Deck, this experience is less a dinner and more a sensory tribute to the Indian Ocean. As the sun dips below the lagoon, guests are invited to a ritual of purity
The Good Friday experience focuses on the simplicity of the sea. The menu features sustainably sourced seafood, prepared with precision to highlight natural flavours without pretence. Surrounded by panoramic lagoon views and the evening breeze, guests are invited to enjoy a rare moment of stillness, marking a serene start to the Easter season.
The Gathering: A Celebration of Togetherness
Easter Sunday on March 5 at Aailaa is a day defined by the ease of island life and the joy of a shared table. The morning begins with a celebratory breakfast featuring a curated selection of international specialties, followed by an evening Grand Buffet that balances traditional holiday favorites with modern, island-inspired creations.
Set against the backdrop of the turquoise lagoon, the day is designed for slow, meaningful moments. Whether it’s the lingering over seasonal desserts or the quiet comfort of a family dinner, the experience at Aailaa provides a refined space for guests to reconnect and celebrate the holiday in the heart of our tropical sanctuary.
Community by JW: A Garden-to-Table Journey
At the heart of the celebration lies a deeper connection to nature. Through the Community by JW initiative, guests are invited to reconnect with the land in the resort’s vibrant JW Garden.
Guided by the culinary team, participants harvest fresh herbs and seasonal ingredients before transforming them into interactive pastry creations. This immersive garden-led experience reflects the resort’s commitment to sustainability and mindful living, offering guests a meaningful way to engage with their surroundings while celebrating the essence of renewal.
A Sanctuary for Every Generation
The resort’s 60 private pool villas, each attended by a dedicated Thakuru (Butler), serve as a secluded base for the holiday. To explore the island’s natural beauty, guests of all ages are provided with complimentary bicycles, allowing families to wander the sandy paths at their own pace, from the quiet corners of the gardens to the water’s edge.
For younger explorers, the Family by JW Little Griffins’ Kids Club, one of the largest in the Maldives—offers a world of discovery with a rotating schedule of over 100 weekly activities. This allows parents the freedom to find their own balance through holistic wellbeing and island relaxation.
This Easter, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa offers more than just a holiday; it provides a return to what matters most. It is a season defined by elegance, intention, and the simple, timeless beauty of life lived by the sea.
The Savor the Endless package elevates the stay with a USD 300 resort credit per stay, complemented by daily breakfast, a three-course lunch, and a three-course dinner for two at select restaurants. A one-time floating breakfast served in the privacy of the villa adds an indulgent highlight, while a 60% reduction on food at Hashi and Shio invites guests to explore the resort’s culinary offerings. Earn up to 40,000 bonus points for Marriott Bonvoy® member. Additionally, guests can get complimentary non-motorised watersports provide effortless enjoyment on the lagoon, alongside the attentive service of a dedicated Thakuru (personal butler), complimentary bicycles, and a one-time 30-minute photography session with one printed keepsake to preserve moments in paradise.
For more information, visit the resort’s website.
News
World-renowned photographer Greg Finck to lead workshop at Milaidhoo Maldives
Milaidhoo Maldives has announced the upcoming stay of internationally acclaimed photographer Greg Finck, who will host an exclusive photography workshop on Tuesday 21st April on the boutique private island.
Over the past 15 years, Greg Finck has become one of the most sought-after names in wedding and event photography, documenting exceptional celebrations across the globe. Beyond weddings, he has refined his artistic vision through travel and fashion photography, collaborating with renowned fashion houses including Elie Saab, Balenciaga and Rime Arodaky.
Greg’s signature style is elegant, natural and timeless, capturing his subjects in their most honest light. Influenced by legendary fashion photographers such as Annie Leibovitz, Mario Testino and Patrick Demarchelier, he continually challenges convention while maintaining a refined aesthetic. He has been named one of the world’s top wedding photographers by Harper’s Bazaar and has been featured in leading international publications including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, The New York Times and Martha Stewart Weddings.
During his time at Milaidhoo, Greg will lead an intimate workshop designed for photography enthusiasts and creative minds alike. Set against the island’s pristine shores and turquoise waters, the session offers a rare opportunity to learn from one of the industry’s most celebrated talents in an inspiring, natural setting.
This special collaboration reflects Milaidhoo’s commitment to curating meaningful experiences that connect guests with artistry, creativity and place.
For further information or to reserve a place at the workshop, please contact welcome@milaidhoo.com.
News
The Westin Maldives celebrates World Sleep Day with restorative island programme
To celebrate World Sleep Day, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort invites guests to embrace the brand’s Sleep Well philosophy through a week-long program of deeply relaxing experiences. Thoughtfully designed with rest in mind, the wellness-led offerings encourage guests to unplug, unwind, and reconnect with the benefits of truly restorative sleep in one of the Maldives’ most tranquil island settings.
From March 7–13, 2026, guests can enjoy a series of experiences designed to bring a deeper sense of calm to their stay, from a soothing Sleep Infusion Turndown featuring chamomile, lavender, and caffeine-free green tea, to quiet pauses inspired by the island’s natural rhythm.
Marking World Sleep Day on March 13, the resort will host a Yoga Nidra session, a guided meditation practice that induces a state of consciousness between sleeping and waking, led by Heavenly Spa by Westin. That evening, a sunset cocktail reception will offer a sleep-inspired twist, featuring drinks crafted to help support a restful night.
Guests can also explore The Nap Map that highlights peaceful spots across the island for daytime rest. Whether lounging along the resort’s white-sand shores, swaying gently in a hammock, or tucked away into a quiet corner amid lush greenery, each nap zone offers an invitation to slow down. An extended breakfast service until noon on March 13 adds the perfect reason to sleep in.
The celebration also spotlights the resort’s year-round commitment to sleep wellness. From Westin’s award-winning Heavenly® Bed to the Sleep Well Lavender Balm, infused with lavender and chamomile oils, every detail is designed to support a more balanced, restorative stay. Guests can also enjoy the Sleep Well Menu, featuring lighter evening dishes created to complement a calmer nighttime routine. Sleep-focused offerings extend to families, thanks to the resort’s partnership with Savvy Sleep pediatric specialists, who created The Westin Maldives Kids Sleep Manual to help children and parents enjoy a more restful getaway.
Beyond Sleep Well, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort continues to champion holistic well-being with experiences that help guests eat and move well throughout their stay. From the 24-hour WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio and scenic running routes to Gear Lending, yoga sessions, and treatments at the overwater Heavenly Spa by Westin™, the resort offers a wellness-led island escape designed for a full reset.
Nestled within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort blends contemporary overwater and beach villas with nature-led surroundings and purposeful wellness experiences, allowing guests to reconnect with themselves in one of the Maldives’ most serene destinations.
Plan your next Maldivian wellness getaway at westin-maldives.com.
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