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.
W Maldives has unveiled Escape Remix, a new stay experience designed for guests seeking to experience different sides of island life, from the tranquillity of overwater living to the laidback glamour of a beachfront escape.
Available from June 2026 onwards as a permanent offering, Escape Remix allows guests to move between the Superior Overwater One-Bedroom Villa and the Escape Beach One-Bedroom Villa within one curated island getaway.
Created for travellers seeking variety without compromise, the experience includes a four-night stay split between two nights in the overwater villa and two nights in the beach villa. It also includes daily buffet breakfast for two adults and a selection of signature island benefits, giving guests distinct perspectives of the destination while maintaining comfort and luxury throughout their stay.
At the centre of the experience is the opportunity to discover the Maldives from two different settings. Suspended above clear lagoon waters, the Superior Overwater One-Bedroom Villa offers ocean views, direct access to the sea, a private pool, and a W Maldives signature overwater hammock designed for leisurely afternoons above the Indian Ocean. Guests can also access the resort’s award-winning house reef directly from the villa deck, where marine life can be explored just moments from their accommodation.
On shore, the Escape Beach One-Bedroom Villa offers a more barefoot island rhythm. Surrounded by tropical greenery and direct beach access, the villa features a private pool and an elevated upper deck with a swinging daybed for golden-hour lounging. Guests staying beachside can also access the same award-winning house reef directly from the shoreline, creating a connection between island living and underwater discovery.
“Luxury travel today is about having the freedom to experience a destination in different ways, all within one journey,” said Amila Handunwala, General Manager of W Maldives. “Escape Remix was created for guests who want to fully immerse themselves in the Maldives while experiencing contrasting yet complementary experiences, from the serenity of overwater living to the lively energy of a beachfront escape, all infused with the bold spirit of W Maldives.”
Beyond the villas, Escape Remix includes a series of additions designed to enhance the stay. Guests receive complimentary soda refreshments from the in-room MixBar, complimentary use of snorkelling gear, access to non-motorised water sports, and a one-time 30-minute photoshoot with the resort’s in-house photographer, including one printed photograph.
Following its recent transformation, W Maldives continues to position itself within the contemporary luxury segment through design, immersive experiences, and a social island atmosphere. Guests can dine across the resort’s five restaurants and bars, unwind with treatments at the overwater AWAY Spa, or take part in a castaway experience at Gaathafushi, the resort’s private island.
As a five-star resort in the Maldives known for its distinctive personality and approach to luxury, W Maldives continues to expand its guest experiences beyond the conventional island stay.
Blending overwater tranquillity with beachfront freedom, Escape Remix introduces a new way to experience W Maldives, offering guests a more dynamic and personalised stay. Travellers looking to extend their visit can also book the Original Wavemaker package, which includes shared seaplane transfers and a half-board meal plan for two adults.
Lily Beach Resort & Spa has received a series of prestigious nominations across the World Travel Awards 2026, South Asian Travel Awards 2026, and TTM Awards 2026, recognising the resort’s continued excellence in all-inclusive luxury, family hospitality, and culinary experiences. Together, these nominations reaffirm Lily Beach’s position as one of the Maldives’ leading luxury resorts, distinguished by its exceptional guest experience, acclaimed dining, and enduring appeal for families and multi-generational travellers.
The resort has been nominated for Indian Ocean’s Leading Family Resort, Maldives’ Leading Family Resort, and Maldives’ Leading All-Inclusive Resort at the World Travel Awards 2026; Leading All-Inclusive Hotel/Resort, Leading F&B Hotel/Resort, and Leading Family Hotel/Resort at the South Asian Travel Awards 2026; and Best All-Inclusive Resort at the TTM Awards 2026. This broad recognition reflects the strength of Lily Beach’s proposition: an elevated Platinum All-Inclusive Plan, a vibrant and sophisticated culinary offering, and a family experience that balances thoughtful service with effortless island freedom.
At the heart of this recognition is Lily Beach’s award-winning Platinum All-Inclusive Plan, widely regarded as one of the Maldives’ most generous and comprehensive premium holiday offerings. Guests enjoy exceptional dining, unlimited premium beverages including more than 80 wines and French Champagne, curated excursions, daily entertainment, a well-balanced mix of recreational and wellness activities, and replenished in-villa minibars, all coming together to create a seamless island escape defined by abundance, ease, and refined Maldivian hospitality.
Culinary excellence remains a defining pillar of the Lily Beach experience. From international buffets at Lily Maa and beachfront dining at Vibes to specialty cuisine at Tamarind and vibrant moments at AQVA and Spirit Bar, the resort offers diverse gastronomic journeys for every palate. Exclusive collaborations with Michelin-starred chefs, renowned mixologists, and internationally acclaimed bartenders further elevate the dining and beverage experience throughout the year. At the same time, Lily Beach continues to stand out as one of the Maldives’ leading family destinations, with the Turtle Kids Club, Kids Dining Corner at Lily Maa, family-friendly pools, the Lagoon Aqua Park, and a variety of island excursions creating memorable experiences for guests of all ages.
“We are honoured to be recognised across three of the industry’s most respected award platforms,” said Laurent Driole, General Manager of Lily Beach Resort & Spa. “These nominations are a meaningful endorsement of our team’s dedication to delivering a truly distinctive Maldivian experience – one that combines elevated all-inclusive hospitality, memorable gastronomy and exceptional family travel in a setting of natural beauty.”
These nominations reinforce Lily Beach Resort & Spa’s position as a leader in luxury all-inclusive hospitality, exceptional gastronomy, and multi-generational travel, while highlighting the resort’s dedication to creating unforgettable experiences for every guest. They also serve as a strong endorsement for partners, advisors, and travellers seeking a resort with proven excellence across the areas that matter most: product quality, culinary distinction, family appeal, and warm, impeccable service.
To vote for Lily Beach, please click here. For reservations and further information, please visit the resort’s website.
Wellness by Mandara has introduced the launch of its exclusive Membership Programme at Barceló Nasandhura, Maldives. Created for modern wellness seekers, frequent spa guests, and city residents alike, the programme introduces a curated approach to ongoing self-care through a combination of signature spa experiences, exclusive privileges, and long-term wellness value.
Available exclusively at Barceló Nasandhura, the membership programme further strengthens the hotel’s positioning as a contemporary lifestyle and wellness destination within the Maldives capital. Combining the trusted wellness expertise of Mandara Spa with the elevated hospitality experience of Barceló Nasandhura, the programme has been thoughtfully designed to make premium wellness experiences more accessible as part of everyday lifestyle routines.
As wellness increasingly evolves from occasional indulgence into an essential part of modern living, the Wellness by Mandara Membership Programme responds to a growing demand for consistent, high-quality spa experiences within urban environments. Located in the centre of Malé, Barceló Nasandhura offers an ideal setting for guests seeking moments of restoration, balance, and relaxation amidst the pace of city life.
Priced at USD 199, the membership programme provides a carefully curated collection of introductory spa privileges designed to deliver both immediate value and continued wellness access throughout the membership period.
Membership package includes:
- Two complimentary Balinese Massage vouchers
- One complimentary Refresher Facial voucher
- One 50% discount voucher for any spa treatment
- One USD 25 redemption voucher for any spa treatment
- One complimentary retail gift
In addition to these introductory benefits, all members will receive a dedicated Wellness by Mandara Membership Card, granting ongoing access to exclusive savings across spa services and retail offerings.
Wellness by Mandara membership card privileges:
- 20% discount on all spa packages
- 10% discount on retail purchases
Rooted in the signature wellness philosophy of Mandara Spa, the programme reflects a commitment to delivering authentic and restorative spa experiences inspired by Balinese wellness traditions. Through a combination of personalised treatments, attentive hospitality, and carefully curated wellness offerings, Wellness by Mandara continues to create meaningful spa journeys tailored to the evolving lifestyles of today’s guests.
The launch of the membership programme at Barceló Nasandhura also highlights the continued evolution of wellness experiences within the Maldives hospitality landscape, where guests increasingly seek integrated lifestyle offerings that extend beyond traditional hotel stays. By introducing a dedicated spa membership concept within Malé, Wellness by Mandara further expands access to premium wellness experiences for both international travellers and the local community.
Located within Barceló Nasandhura, the Wellness by Mandara spa provides a tranquil sanctuary that combines contemporary comfort with the calming essence of traditional wellness practices. From signature massages to revitalising facials and body treatments, the spa experience has been thoughtfully crafted to support relaxation, renewal, and overall wellbeing.
The Wellness by Mandara Membership Programme is now available exclusively at Barceló Nasandhura, Maldives.
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