News
Seaside Collection opens .Here, an ultra-private two-island resort in Maldives
Designed to reimagine luxury travel within the Maldives, the new, ultra-bespoke private islands of .Here is now open and welcoming guests. The luxurious private island retreat will set new, unmatched standards in the world of travel and redefine hospitality for the contemporary luxury traveler with intuitive service, transformative experiences, and total seclusion. Set across two natural islands, Somewhere and Nowhere, .Here will attract the world’s most incisive travellers, offering understated luxury, with a touch of fun – where each guest is at the very heart of everything.
Located in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, known for its exceptional snorkel and dive offerings and home to a plethora of diverse sea life, the two islands will comprise nine residences with a dedicated bar and restaurant providing inventive fusion flavours from around the world.
The amenities of neighbouring property, Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort will also be available to guests staying at .Here – perfect for those seeking freedom of movement and a chance to balance tranquil seclusion with vibrant adventure.
“.Here embodies a refined vision of exclusivity in the Maldives,” says Gregor Gerlach, Co-owner of Seaside Collection. “By seamlessly integrating bespoke hospitality with thoughtful sustainable design, we have created a sanctuary that invites discerning travelers to engage deeply with the natural beauty and tranquility that define this extraordinary destination.”
Designed by Kulör Group, .Here’s innovative architecture gracefully follows the island’s natural contours, offering breathtaking sunrise and sunset views from every residence. From the outset, eco-conscious luxury has been a guiding principle, with passive cooling systems, minimal site disturbance, responsibly sourced materials, and reef-safe construction practices woven into the design. The seamless fusion of beachfront and overwater living creates expansive decks, panoramic ocean vistas, and an immersive connection with nature. Signature elements include natural materials, dynamic circulation flows, and sightlines carefully curated to trace the sun’s path, resulting in spaces that are as intuitive to inhabit as they are visually stunning.
“.Here started as a very personal idea—we wanted to create something that felt both imaginative and deeply intimate,” says Anouchka Gerlach, Co-owner of Seaside Collection. “From the way the islands are laid out to the shape and flow of the residences, everything was designed to stir emotion and spark a sense of discovery. It’s less about simply getting away, and more about finding a real connection – with the surroundings, with yourself, and with the moment.”
Steven Phillips, General Manager of .Here and sister luxury Resort, Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort, shares “.Here is not about scale or spectacle; it is about intimacy, intention, and genuine emotional connection. With just nine extraordinary residences spread across two pristine islands, we have created a sanctuary where every detail is personal, every experience thoughtfully curated, and every guest feels truly understood. Our team takes immense pride in delivering bespoke service that allows guests to simply arrive, breathe deeply, and feel completely at home in one of the world’s most remarkable natural settings.”

Somewhere
Stretching across the entire width of the island, the vast residences will straddle both land and sea and deliver the very best of Indian Ocean living with an overwater and beach residence concept all in one, designed to cater to those who do not want to choose. Hugging the two-storey residences and taking center stage are the expansive 45 to 47 metres suspended sky infinity pools complete with waterfalls. Five of the residences feature three splendid en-suite bedrooms, sleeping up to eight adults, indoor and outdoor living area, a bar, a fully equipped kitchen, an outdoor Big Green Egg, and more than 1,200 square metres of living space. The remaining two residences are larger, offering an additional bedroom (four) for up to 11 adults. Alongside the 1,400 square metres of space, guests can enjoy a dedicated Roohu (butler), the island’s water sports centre offering motorised and non-motorised activities, a Dyson hairdryer and airwrap, and 24-hour in-residence dining.

Nowhere
Comprising two main residences, is intended to be booked as a whole private experience – fortifying a new era of exclusivity and privacy. The first is an exceptional over-water villa spanning more than 1,000 square metres, three bedrooms and a 15 metres private swimming pool. Undoubtedly, it will be the five-bedroom Presidential Residence boasting more than 2,400 square metres of space, a 28 metres swimming pool, and its own private beach that will be the most impressive and distinguishing property at .Here. With ample space for up to 24 adults, Nowhere is also home to Fehi Wellness, the resort’s fitness centre, and a water sports centre.
Wellness
Located on Nowhere, Fehi Wellness, which takes its name from the local Dhivehi word for “green”, features multiple treatment rooms and a yoga chamber and is accessible only to those staying on Nowhere. For those staying on Somewhere, all treatments can be carried out from the comfort of their residence.
At Fehi, utterly bespoke treatments and wellness programs are personalised for every guest. The concept of duality is also reflected within the spa offering, where ancient traditional therapies are combined with cutting-edge technologies and world-class experts. Example treatments include heated salt stone and cold jade nephrite stone massage, and aquatic plantar reflexology.

Roohu
The island’s unparalleled and intimate hospitality is brought to life with their dedicated Roohu – meaning soul in Dhivehi – butler service for every residence, there to curate personalised, one-of-a-kind, and rare experiences. At the heart of Roohu’s ethos lies the power of discretion and customisation, acknowledging the uniqueness of every guest’s wishes.
Epicurean Experiences
At the island’s restaurant and bar, Safar, meaning “journey” in Dhivehi, extensive dining options have been thoughtfully curated to ensure every palate is satisfied at any given moment of the day. Resident chefs are on hand 24 hours a day to curate bespoke menus which can be enjoyed in the privacy of their residence or at the overwater restaurant. From fine dining to casual fare such as picnics on the beach and barbecues on the residence deck, each culinary experience is a sensory exploration.
Design
The island’s design and interiors have been meticulously chosen by the award-winning British design studio, Muza Lab. Duo Inge Moore and Nathan Hutchins are responsible for creating some of the world’s most incredible spaces, and this project will be no exception. Taking inspiration from the textures, shapes, and colors of the natural world, interiors such as natural carved timbers, stone, and marble, all nod to Maldivian local treasures like the Dhoni boats and the Feyli sarongs.
.Here can be reached via a scenic 30-minute seaplane flight direct from Velana International Airport in Malé. To find out more, please visit: here-maldives.com.
News
Machchafushi Island Resort integrates marine conservation, sustainable practices across operations
Machchafushi Island Resort and Spa Maldives, part of the Centara Collection, offers an authentic Maldivian island experience that blends exceptional hospitality with dedicated environmental stewardship. Throughout the year, the resort reinforces its commitment to biodiversity protection, marine conservation, waste reduction, water management, and sustainable food practices, inviting guests to enjoy a meaningful holiday that creates lasting memories while making a positive impact.
Last year, the resort’s dedication to coral restoration and reef conservation has produced tangible results. Between March and November, the team planted five coral frames, each containing 80 coral fragments, restoring 20 to 25 square metres of reef. Throughout the year, a total of 35 frames in the coral nursery were monitored and nurtured, supporting the growth and survival of new coral fragments. With a 70% coral fragment survival rate, the resort actively cares for the surrounding lagoon, home to dozens of marine species. Guests can participate in these initiatives through coral gardening activities. In addition, guests contribute to the island’s reforestation efforts, supporting the national vision of planting five million trees across the Maldives by 2029, reflecting a long-term commitment to the environment. Programs such as World Coastal Cleanup Day include collaboration with the Dhangethi Island Council on tree planting initiatives, further strengthening environmental stewardship.

Keeping the seas clean remains a top priority, with regular lagoon clean-ups helping to preserve the pristine waters. Over 25 kilograms of mixed waste were removed during a recent clean-up, ensuring the lagoon remains vibrant and healthy. On land, responsible waste management practices include paper straws, bamboo cutlery, and reusable water bottles, eliminating single-use plastics entirely. Between January and October 2025, the resort recycled 6,305 kilograms of glass, 6,325 kilograms of plastic, and 5,795 kilograms of metal, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable environment.
Water conservation is another key focus, with the resort’s Reverse Osmosis Plant producing 420 tons per 24 hours and daily water usage averaging 220 litres per guest. Reuse and recycling initiatives have grown significantly, with 3,000 cubic metres of water reused and 3,932 cubic metres recycled between January and October 2025, compared to 150 and 607 cubic metres in the previous year. Sustainable food practices are prioritised, with hydroponically grown produce including a variety of fruits, herbs, and vegetables accounting for 7 percent of onsite sourcing.

Sustainability is seamlessly integrated into every aspect of the guest experience. From overwater villas overlooking crystal-clear lagoons to immersive opportunities in marine and island conservation, guests can connect deeply with the natural beauty of the Maldives while making a positive impact. The island offers a truly authentic experience, where each moment is meaningful, and every encounter draws visitors closer to the sea, the land, and the thriving ecosystem.
Rainwater is carefully collected and stored, with both rainwater and treated water from the Sewage Treatment Plant efficiently used to irrigate gardens, nourishing plants while conserving freshwater resources. Lighting along the overwater walkways is fully powered by solar energy, reducing carbon footprint and reliance on conventional electricity.

Organic waste generated on-site is converted into rich, organic fertiliser through a composting system, which nourishes cultivated crops and garden plants while supporting sustainable agriculture in the surrounding community through donations to local farmers.
Within the villas, environmentally conscious choices are implemented, such as ceramic soap dispensers for guest amenities to minimise single-use plastics. Water boilers integrated with air conditioning units equipped with heat pump systems enable efficient production of hot water while optimising energy use.
Through these combined efforts, the resort not only minimises its environmental impact but also nurtures a lasting connection between guests, the community, and the natural world, creating experiences that are both memorable and responsible.
Featured
Dhigali Maldives closes festive season with dynamic New Year’s Eve party
The festive season at Dhigali Maldives concluded on a vibrant and memorable note, offering guests a series of celebrations that blended tradition, creativity, and island spirit. From a uniquely Maldivian take on Santa’s arrival to thematic experiences inspired by the elements, the resort transformed into a setting designed for joy and togetherness.
Christmas Eve brought guests to Capers, where a traditional buffet featuring a wide range of global flavours was accompanied by live music that set the festive tone. On Christmas Day, Santa Claus made his entrance not by sleigh but aboard a traditional bokkura, a gesture that delighted families gathered along the shoreline.
In the days leading up to New Year’s Eve, Dhigali Maldives presented a programme themed around “The Four Elements of Nature.” The series began on 27 December with Earth, featuring a jungle trail, grounded yoga sessions, and spa treatments. On 28 December, the celebrations moved to East for Water, highlighted by a floating bar and zorb ball acrobats performing across the pool. Air followed on 29 December with an aerial silk performance on the beach, and Fire brought the energy to a peak on 30 December with traditional Bodu Beru drumming and a fire dance illuminating the night sky.
The festivities culminated on New Year’s Eve at East Beach, where all four elements converged for an immersive celebration. Fire dancers, live performers, and a pyrotechnic display lit up the sky in vibrant colours. Hungarian DJ Regán Lili headlined the night with a set described as electric, her soundscapes resonating across the island and drawing guests to the dance floor as they welcomed the new year. It marked a striking finale to a season of celebration at Dhigali Maldives.
Love
Valentine’s at Milaidhoo: Collection of intimate island experiences
In the heart of the Maldives, love finds its true rhythm. At Milaidhoo, a sanctuary for couples of all ages, romance isn’t forced, it’s allowed to unfold naturally. Whether you’re beneath a blanket of stars, beside the gentle waves of the ocean or in the peace of your own private hideaway, each moment is designed to help you reconnect with yourself, your partner and the unspoiled nature that surrounds you.
This Valentine’s, Milaidhoo invites you to write your own love story through an exclusive collection of experiences, each crafted to celebrate the beauty of togetherness.
Culinary moments
Lagoon Breakfast
Start your day in the most serene way with an indulgent breakfast served by the ocean, right in front of your villa. The soft morning light, calm waters and a bottle of Ruinart Rosé set the perfect tone for a day of love.
Chocolate-Making Class
Indulge your senses in a private chocolate-making experience with our talented pastry chef. Learn the art of crafting delicate chocolates, paired with M. Chapoutier Banyuls Bila-Haut Rimage for the perfect finish.
Sandbank Picnic
Escape to a secluded sandbank for a romantic picnic, complete with gourmet delights, chilled rosé and breathtaking views of the endless horizon.
Valentine’s Beach Dinner on 14th February 2026
Let the stars be your ceiling as you enjoy a four-course dinner by the ocean. From a 10-rose bouquet to champagne and a romantic flower bath awaiting you back at your villa, every detail is designed to make this night unforgettable.
Ocean Stories
Beneath the Blue
Swim hand-in-hand through the thriving marine world of Milaidhoo’s house reef, where colourful fish and graceful corals create an underwater backdrop for your love story.
Private Cruise on Saima
Set sail aboard Saima, Milaidhoo’s handcrafted Maldivian dhoni, for a private cruise through tranquil waters. The experience can be elevated with champagne and gourmet canapés.
Private Cinema on the Sandbank
Create your own private movie night beneath the stars. Soft sand beneath your feet, your favourite film playing and the ocean as your soundtrack. You can even add dinner to make the evening even more special.
Serenity Spa
Reconnection Ritual
A deeply rejuvenating 120-minute experience designed to bring you closer together. From a mindful arrival ritual to a signature couple’s massage using rose oil and finishing with a moment of recommitment over rosebud tea, this is the ultimate expression of love and connection.
Partner Yoga
Support each other in synchronised yoga poses designed to nurture trust, balance and connection.
Couples Floating Sound Bath
Float on warm waters as the soothing sounds of singing bowls and gongs deepen your connection, helping you to harmonise body, mind and spirit.
At Milaidhoo, Valentine’s isn’t just a day, it’s a feeling that lingers in every experience, every moment and every sunset. Amidst turquoise waters, white sands and the gentle hum of island life, couples are invited to slow down and rediscover what truly matters.
This Valentine’s, let Milaidhoo be the island where your love story is written.
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