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Blue Mind Theory brought to life at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau
InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort, located amid the clear waters of Raa Atoll, has introduced an experiential interpretation of the Blue Mind Theory through a new tailored package. The scientifically rooted concept suggests that being near, in, on, or under water can enhance happiness, calmness, and a sense of connection, while also boosting creativity and reducing stress. According to a UK survey by the Ocean Conservation Trust, 94% of participants reported improvements to their wellbeing after interacting with the ocean.
The resort offers direct access to one of the Maldives’ most vibrant marine environments and has curated a selection of wellness, adventure, and relaxation experiences aligned with the restorative principles of the Blue Mind Theory. Situated within the Maldives’ largest natural lagoon, its colourful house reef is home to blacktip reef sharks, turtles, and manta rays. As a key partner of The Manta Trust, InterContinental Maldives provides opportunities for guests to swim with manta rays in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts guided by experts.
Insights from The Manta Trust help illustrate the theory in practice. Meral Hafeez, Project Manager at the organisation, observes that encountering manta rays for the first time often brings a profound emotional response: “Time seems to slow down, fear is replaced with wonder, and what remains is a palpable sense of joy. Much of this stems from the grandeur the sea evokes – you are constantly humbled by its immensity. Feeling a sense of awe increases wellbeing and deepens our connection to the world.”
Drawing on this specialist knowledge, the resort’s Blue Mind package includes overwater meditation, guided seaside yoga, tailored treatments at AVI Spa, snorkelling sessions with The Manta Trust, and a private dinner under the stars. Guided yoga and meditation sessions held at dawn and dusk promote mindfulness while synchronising with the natural rhythm of the ocean. AVI Spa offers treatments inspired by marine elements and water-based techniques to reduce anxiety, restore balance, and support circadian wellbeing.
Guests may also choose a five-course dinner with champagne on a remote sandbank, offering a uniquely tranquil setting surrounded entirely by the Indian Ocean. The resort’s secluded location enhances its suitability for practising the principles of the Blue Mind Theory, supported by ongoing involvement from The Manta Trust.
Residence rates begin at USD 4,745++ per night, inclusive of a variety of tailored experiences.
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has been nominated in the Resorts category for the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 (UK) and the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 (US), marking a further development in the resort’s international recognition.
The Readers’ Choice Awards are based on traveller feedback and are considered a key benchmark within the global travel industry. The dual nomination reflects the resort’s presence across international markets and its engagement with guests from different regions.
The nomination follows a series of recognitions for the resort. In 2025, Kuda Villingili was ranked among the Top 5 Overseas Leisure Resorts Worldwide in the Condé Nast Traveller Middle East Readers’ Choice Awards, placing fifth globally. It was also listed among the Top Resorts in the Indian Ocean in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 (US). The resort was similarly recognised in the 2024 edition of the awards.
Located in North Malé Atoll, approximately 30 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives offers 75 villas and residences, each with private pools and views of the surrounding ocean.
The resort features eight restaurants and three bars, including Japanese-Peruvian dining at Mar-Umi and Teppanyaki by Mar-Umi. Other dining options include Asian cuisine at East and grill offerings at Fire. Additional facilities include a cigar lounge, a large swimming pool, a spa with overwater treatment villas, and a range of wellness and recreational activities such as yoga, sound therapy and surfing.
Amjad Thaufeeg, Commercial Director at Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, stated that the nominations reflect feedback from guests across international markets and noted the importance of maintaining consistent service standards.
Voting for the Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 is open until 30 June 2026, with results scheduled to be announced in November 2026.
Baros Maldives is set to host a curated Earth Day experience titled Earth Day in Bloom on 22 April 2026, offering guests an evening programme centred on sustainability, nature and locally sourced ingredients.
The event will begin at 6:30pm at the resort’s Chef’s Garden, where guests will be welcomed with a Garden Spritz before taking part in a guided tour of the garden. The tour will introduce participants to local herbs and island-grown produce cultivated on the property.
As part of the programme, guests will be invited to plant their own herb, contributing to the garden while engaging in an activity aligned with environmental awareness. The experience will continue with a garden dinner starting at 7pm, featuring a menu designed around fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the island.
An optional pairing of organic wines will also be available, providing an additional element to the dining experience.
The event is priced at USD 175 per person, excluding applicable service charge and taxes. Reservations can be made through the resort’s butler service.
The initiative reflects Baros Maldives’ focus on sustainability-led guest experiences, integrating environmental awareness with culinary offerings and on-island activities.
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives has been recognised as a Quality Winner at the TUI Global Hotel Awards 2026, an accolade based on guest feedback from travellers worldwide. The recognition reflects the resort’s delivery of guest experiences shaped by service standards, facilities and alignment with evolving traveller preferences.
Located in North Malé Atoll, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives offers a range of accommodation options, with more than 140 units including overwater suites, beach bungalows and duplex garden bungalows. The resort is designed to accommodate couples, families and groups.
The resort features seven dining venues offering a mix of international and local cuisine. Tex Mex serves Mexican and Spanish-inspired dishes, while Dalchini offers an Indian à la carte menu available for lunch and dinner. Raalhu Bar provides a setting for evening refreshments, with views of the sunset.
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives is also known for Pasta Point, a surf break recognised for its left-hand waves. The resort attracts surfers from international markets who travel to access the location. Surf operations at Pasta Point are managed by Atoll Adventures, with bookings handled through Atoll Travel to ensure a structured approach to surf access.
The TUI Global Hotel Awards are determined by guest reviews, making the recognition an indicator of guest satisfaction. The resort’s inclusion as a Quality Winner reflects its performance in meeting guest expectations within the Maldives tourism sector.
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