News
SriLankan Airlines to Open a Training Center in Maldives
Maldives Promotion House – The International Aviation Academy (IAA) the training arm of SriLankan Airlines has announced the launch of its first overseas operations in Maldives. The franchised training agreement between IAA and Orient Express Pvt Limited, Maldives will make new avenues in the Aviation Industry in terms of building human capital for the future.
This will be the first International Air Transportation Association (IATA) Authorized Training Centre (ATC) in the Maldives.
As an Authorized Training Centre for IATA, IAA has been in the field of aviation education for the past decade actively engaged in providing education solutions.
Recognition as one of the Top10 training partners in South Asia by IATA in 2012 further validates IAAs presence in Aviation Education in the South Asian Region. Further IAA is the first in South Asia to be recognized by IATA as a Regional Training Facility for international aviation training by awarding the Franchised Training Partner in the Maldives.
Furthermore IAA is the sole training provider for Travel Agents Association of SriLankan (TAASL). IAA is responsible for catering all training needs of SriLankan Airlines, whilst expanding its market for external training both locally and internationally. Orient Express Pvt Limited, established in 1990’s is a well experienced corporate in the service sector in Maldives. It is one of the leading goods and service providers having strong ties with globally renowned partners. As a new extension Orient Express Pvt Limited join hands with IAA to provide education solutions to the Maldives.
Organizing of the infrastructure facility and marketing of the training programmes in Maldives would be the key areas to be looked after by Orient Express Pvt Limited. General Manager Orient Express said “This is a great opportunity for the Maldives, joining hands with a reliable brand to establish aviation education, which will immensely benefit us.”
The IATA ATC will bring many advantages. Ability to acquire world class training for competitive price, from a qualified and well experienced panel of instructors within Maldives would be a golden opportunity. Successful completion will equip the candidates with IATA Certification. This will open new horizons with a wide range of job opportunities across the globe. High performers will also have the opportunity for On the Job Training.
As defined by the Manager IAA, this partnership with the best corporate house in the Maldives, further supported by the Maldivian government is a solid beginning. The IAA Branch will deliver the same level of high quality aviation education to Maldivian youth to enter a most sought after lucrative aviation industry, producing qualified native aviation professionals
Pradeepa Kekulawala, Head of Human Resources, SriLankan Airlines said, “Being one of the IATA Top 10 Aviation Academies of South Asia, a recognition of our excellence and effectiveness in Aviation training, we decided to offer our programmes to the regional markets and our first choice was Maldives, considering our long term relationship between the countries and the lucrative Travel & Tourism opportunities.
SriLankan Airlines is a household brand in the Maldives with a history of more than two decades and to achieve the next level, we decided to have a branch in Maldives.
IAA have an exclusive status from IATA to offer IATA training programmes at the training centre. This itself proves the quality of training offered along with Oriental Express, franchisee and local partner. IAA guarantee usual highest quality training to the market, delivered by professional trainers of SriLankan Airlines and to provide outstanding on the job trainings and internship opportunities.
News
Milaidhoo Maldives included in Tatler Travel Guide 2026’s top hotels
Milaidhoo Maldives has announced its inclusion in the prestigious Tatler Travel Guide 2026, a coveted recognition celebrating the world’s most exceptional hotels. The island has been selected among Tatler 101: The World’s Best Hotels, an annual list that represents the pinnacle of excellence in global hospitality.
Curated by Tatler’s Travel Editor alongside an expert editorial team and an international network of contributors, the Tatler Travel Guide is renowned for its rigorous and discerning selection process. Each property is carefully evaluated to ensure that only those offering truly remarkable experiences earn a place on the list.
As one of the most established and influential society magazines in the world, Tatler’s endorsement is considered one of the highest honours in the travel industry. The guide speaks directly to a sophisticated and discerning audience, celebrating hotels that combine authenticity, character and outstanding service.
For Milaidhoo Maldives, the recognition is a meaningful affirmation of the island’s philosophy: a boutique, barefoot sanctuary where the essence of the Maldives is experienced in its most genuine form. Set within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Milaidhoo is known for its intimate atmosphere, thoughtful hospitality and deep connection to Maldivian heritage and culture.
“We are deeply honoured to be recognised in the Tatler Travel Guide 2026,” said Paul van Frank, General Manager. “At Milaidhoo, we strive to create experiences that feel personal, soulful and truly reflective of the Maldives. To be included among the world’s best hotels is a wonderful recognition of the passion and dedication of our team, the Milaidhoo Family.”
From the island’s iconic overwater restaurant Ba’theli, inspired by traditional Maldivian sailing vessels, to curated cultural and marine experiences, Milaidhoo offers guests an opportunity to slow down and connect with the natural beauty and traditions of the Maldives.
This recognition from Tatler further reinforces Milaidhoo’s reputation as one of the Indian Ocean’s most distinctive luxury escapes, where authenticity, intimacy and heartfelt service define every stay.
News
ELE|NA marks World Sleep Day with SleepSync wellness ritual
In recognition of World Sleep Day, ELE|NA highlights SleepSync, one of its Six Pillars of Vitality dedicated to restoration and circadian rhythm alignment, through the SleepSync Ritual, a deeply calming spa experience designed to guide guests toward profound, uninterrupted sleep. The ritual is implemented across all ELE|NA locations in both the Maldives and India, ensuring guests can reconnect with restorative sleep wherever they experience the brand.
In today’s always-connected world, restful sleep has become increasingly elusive. Within this ritual, the body is gently led from stimulation into stillness, releasing the tensions of the day, calming the nervous system and preparing the mind and body for restorative rest.
ELE|NA believes that sleep is not simply the absence of wakefulness, but an essential pillar of holistic wellbeing – where restoration, emotional balance and cellular renewal take place.

Supporting the Body’s Natural Sleep Rhythm
Sleep begins long before the moment the head meets the pillow. It is a gradual transition where the body releases the day and prepares for stillness.

Within ELE|NA’s SleepSync Rituals, this transition is approached with intention and calm. As evening settles, the body begins its quiet descent into rest with the following:
- Reduce blue light exposure before sleep
- Dim lighting to signal the body’s nighttime rhythm
- Create calm through mindful transitions away from daily activity
- Release thoughts through journaling
- Hydrate and support the body’s nighttime recovery
These small rituals help guide the body from stimulation to restoration.

Reclaiming the Night
World Sleep Day serves as an important reminder that quality sleep is not a luxury, but a foundation of health and longevity. When supported with mindful rituals and intentional slowing down, the night becomes a space for true renewal.
Through SleepSync Rituals, ELE|NA continues its commitment to nurturing holistic wellbeing, guiding individuals back to the natural rhythms that allow the body to rest, restore and awaken with clarity and vitality.
Family
Kandooma Maldives invites families to Easter island celebrations
Swap traditional Easter routines for barefoot island celebrations as Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives unveils a vibrant Easter programme designed for families seeking adventure, connection and memorable island moments.
Set on a lush private island surrounded by turquoise lagoons and powder-white beaches, the resort’s Easter festivities blend family adventures, island experiences and indulgent dining in true Maldivian style.
“Easter is a wonderful time for families to come together and create special memories,” said Sharon Garrett, Director of Marketing & Sustainability at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. “Our Easter programme has been designed to capture the spirit of the season while embracing the relaxed island lifestyle that makes the Maldives such a special place to celebrate.”
Guests can enjoy a week of fun-filled activities for all ages, from beach games, snorkelling adventures and creative craft sessions to relaxing spa rituals and sunset cocktails by the ocean. Younger guests will be happily entertained at the Kandoo Kids’ Club, where a dedicated Easter programme offers plenty of excitement for little explorers.
The highlight of the celebrations will be the Easter Sunday Dinner Buffet at Kandooma Café, a festive island feast bringing families together around a table filled with global flavours.
Guests can savour traditional Easter favourites from the carving station, vibrant salads and international cuisine, alongside chef-prepared dishes from live cooking stations. A dedicated Kids’ Corner ensures younger diners have their own fun selections, while a spectacular dessert spread, including Kandooma Café’s famous chocolate fountain and live crêpe station, provides a sweet finale to the evening.
Families planning an Easter holiday can choose from a range of holiday packages, including the resort’s popular All-Inclusive offer and a Family Getaway package packed with added extras for parents and children alike. More details can be found here.
The resort’s Easter Brochure outlines the full programme of island adventures and special experiences, including the Kandoo Kids’ Club Easter activities. View Easter Brochure here.
Located in the South Malé Atoll, just a 45-minute speedboat transfer from Velana International Airport, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is renowned for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear lagoon and some of the Maldives’ best scuba diving experiences.
Accommodation ranges from garden and beach villas to spacious two-storey beach houses and overwater villas, offering options ideal for couples, families and groups. Guests can enjoy six dining venues, a vibrant activities programme and wellness experiences at Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala.
For more information, please visit: www.maldives.holidayinnresorts.com.
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