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Oaga Art Resort draws on Maldivian sun and moon stories for festive season

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There is a brief moment in the Maldives that is easy to miss. The Sun is on its way down, the Moon is just beginning to appear, and for a few minutes the sea turns a shade of silver blue. The island gets quieter. You might still feel the warmth of the day, but somehow, the night has already begun.

This is Hayeh, the blue hour. Neither day nor night, but somewhere beautifully in between. It is this feeling that sits at the heart of Oaga Art Resort’s upcoming festive season.

For Christmas and New Year 2026/2027, Oaga Art Resort presents Between Two Lights, a Maldivian journey through the moments where worlds meet. Inspired by the ancient connection between Sun and Moon, the season brings together island stories, Maldivian culture, local artists, contemporary creativity, food, music, ocean journeys, wellness, storytelling and live performance.

At Oaga, it is not about choosing between the Sun and the Moon. It is having somewhere to be in between.

A Story Written in Sun & Moon

This story begins long before Oaga. The Maldives has always been shaped by movement: people arriving by sea, fishing its waters, trading across the Indian Ocean and carrying stories from one island to another. Kula Sudha Ira, the descendants of Sun and Moon, echoes this history through a story of ancient kingdoms, connection and two worlds coming together.

This festive season, Oaga brings that story into its own evolving landscape. From November, the new Avi Water Villa joins the island’s accommodation collection, drawing inspiration from the warmth and energy of the Sun and facing the sunrise. Odi Water Villa, already part of Oaga’s sunset facing collection, returns with additional villas and a renewed expression inspired by the quiet serenity of the Moon.

Across the island, the story continues through Suvāsthi’s programme of Maldivian artists, musicians, performers and makers, moving between tradition and contemporary expression. From Boduberu Fusion Nights and live mural art to storytelling, digital art, movement and original performances, there will be plenty to discover. Some moments will be planned, some will happen only once, and some may simply be waiting to be stumbled upon.

From Fire to Tide

The festive dining experience follows the changing light. Kaa Kada moves from the bright, energetic world of the Sun by day into a warmer, more atmospheric Moonlit setting by evening.

At the heartof this festive season are two distinct dining experiences: Iru Meyzu, the Sun Table, a generous Maldivian feast inspired by fishermen returning from the sea, with fresh catch, local produce, island spices and open fire; and Handhu Meyzu, the Moon Table, a slower, more intimate evening of candlelight, storytelling and flavours inspired by night fishing.

Across the season, guests can also discover the flavours of the islands through interactive food and drink experiences, from traditional spice making and local ingredient tastings to cocktail creations.

Finding Your Way Through the Island

The festive journey makes space for every kind of discovery. At Hoba Spa, Hayeh, the space between Sun and Moon, becomes a moment to slow down and return to yourself, with festive wellness experiences centred around four pathways: Energize, Grounding, Nurture and Recover.

Beyond the shore,Hoara Xfollows the movement of the frigatebird between sky and sea, taking guests into the waters through traditional fishing, sunset journeys, Boduberu at sea and moonlit ocean experiences. Highlights include Iruvai Foarion National Fisherman’s Day and a special Full Moon healing journey on Christmas Eve.

For younger guests, Fiyoh Club offers its own island of discovery, with traditional Maldivian games, natureactivities, local crafts, sand art and ocean exploration, encouraging children to experience the island with curiosity and wonder.

One Light, Many Moments

Christmas brings the story together around the simple act of gathering. Rather than recreating a Christmas fantasy from other corners of the world, Oaga draws from something deeply familiar to island communities: coming together around one shared light, one long table, with food, stories, music and new faces becoming familiar ones.

New Year’s Eve begins in the quieter world of the Moon, making space to reflect on the year gone by and what we choose to leave behind. As midnight approaches, The Blue Hour unfolds through live music, performance, movement, visual art and Maldivian creative voices, carrying the island from stillness into celebration. The Moon gives way to fire, and with the first light of the new year, the party begins.

For one day, the story stretches beyond the island to a nearby sandbank with the Deserted Day Club. Music, movement, food, drinks and ocean set the scene for an unhurried island day with no real need for an itinerary. Just sea, sky, sand and the freedom to lose track of time.

The Space Between

Between Two Lights is about noticing the moments in between: the first light of morning, the last fire of sunset, the blue hour, the Moon over the lagoon, a story shared over dinner, a drum heard somewhere across the island, the stillness before midnight and the first light of a new year.

This festive season, Oaga brings these moments together through the things that make the island what it is: Maldivian culture, local artists, contemporary creativity, nature, ocean experiences, food, wellness, storytelling and live performance. Much like Oaga itself, the season is not meant to be experienced from a distance. It is something to wander into, discover and become part of.

Come curious. Follow the light. See where it takes you.

This festive season, come experience the space between at Oaga Art Resort.

Nestled in North Malé Atoll, Oaga Art Resort is a homegrown Maldivian hospitality brand where art, culture and storytelling shape the guest experience. Just a 45-minute speedboat journey from Velana International Airport, the resortis home to vibrant beach and overwater villas, creative dining experiences, Hoba Spa and a programme of art, culture and island experiences curated with local artists and cultural practitioners.

Oaga Art Resort stands as a creative hub, offering sensory-rich experiences thoughtfully curated by both local and visiting Maldivian artists and craftspeople. Guests seeking complete indulgence can enjoy the Greatest All Inclusive Plan, with moments designed to inspire from free-flow art sessions and dance experiences to floating meals, island excursions, and watersports. Through its creative brand, Suvāsthi , Oaga supports local artists and arts while offering guests meaningful opportunities to engage with authentic Maldivian culture.

Discover your next inspiration at www.oagaresorts.com and book your stay; an unforgettable artistic journey awaits!

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Daniil Medvedev, Paula Badosa and Donna Vekić head to St. Regis Maldives for tennis series

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The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort has announced a special edition of The Astor Club Soirée in partnership with LUX Tennis, welcoming three of the sport’s most accomplished players, Daniil Medvedev, Paula Badosa, and Donna Vekić, for a series of tennis residencies from October 26 through November 30, 2026. Taking place at the Maldives’ finest address, the program will feature private coaching sessions, group clinics, junior development activities, and guest appearances, offering participants direct engagement with some of tennis’s most recognized names.

The Astor Club Soirée Tennis Series will commence with Donna Vekić from October 29 to November 1, 2026. One of Croatia’s most accomplished tennis players, Vekić has captured five WTA singles titles throughout her career and achieved a career-high ranking of World No. 17. Her recent achievements include a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, a semifinal appearance at Wimbledon, and victory at the prestigious Queen’s Club Championships in 2026. Renowned for her powerful playing style and competitive spirit, Vekić will share her expertise through a series of guest sessions designed for players of all levels.

From November 13 to 14, 2026, the resort will welcome Paula Badosa, one of the most inspiring players on the WTA Tour. After capturing the French Open Girls’ title and turning professional in 2015, Badosa rose steadily through the ranks to reach a career-high World No. 2 ranking in 2022. Following a determined comeback from injury setbacks, she re-established herself among the world’s elite with a title run at the Washington Open, a quarterfinal appearance at the US Open in 2024, and an Australian Open semifinal appearance in 2025. Guests will have the chance to spend time with one of modern tennis’ most resilient and admired competitors through a series of coaching and on-court sessions.

The pinnacle of the series arrives November 26 to 27, 2026 with the highly anticipated residency of Daniil Medvedev, former ATP World No. 1 and one of the defining champions of his generation. Widely regarded as one of the most accomplished players in contemporary tennis, Medvedev’s distinguished career includes a historic US Open title, multiple ATP Masters 1000 victories, ATP Finals success, and numerous Grand Slam final appearances.

Celebrated for his tactical brilliance, relentless competitiveness, and commanding presence on court, Medvedev has consistently performed at the highest level of the sport while establishing himself as one of tennis’ most influential global stars. As the headline appearance of The Astor Club Soirée Tennis Series, he will lead a schedule of private lessons, clinics, and guest events throughout this stay.

“The Astor Club Soirée was created to bring influential figures in sport and culture to The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort through bespoke guest programming,” says Ozgur Cengiz, General Manager of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. “We are pleased to welcome Daniil Medvedev, Paula Badosa, and Donna Vekić, whose achievements have made a lasting impact on professional tennis. Their presence reflects our continued focus on presenting distinctive experiences that inspire, engage, and leave a lasting impression on our guests.”

Designed for aspiring young athletes, tennis enthusiasts, and seasoned players, each residency offers a unique opportunity to learn directly from some of the sport’s most accomplished professionals.

The Astor Club Soirée forms part of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort’s signature platform for distinctive guest programming. Inspired by the Astor family’s appreciation for sports, culture, and refined leisure, The Astor Club Soirée unites influential figures from around the world through engaging experiences that inform, inspire, and connect, embodying the quintessential St. Regis tradition of bringing people together through personalized service.

For more information, please visit stregismaldives.com. 

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Sun Siyam Vilu Reef celebrates 28 years with new beach club and Italian restaurant

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Sun Siyam Vilu Reef is preparing to celebrate its 28th anniversary with three days of music, culinary experiences and wellness from 28 to 30 October 2026. Under the theme A New Rhythm of the Reef, the celebrations will bring together international artists, a visiting chef and wellness practitioners, while marking the debut of YAYA Beach Club and Tuscany, two new additions to the island’s guest experience.

Since welcoming its first guests in 1998 as the first resort in the Sun Siyam portfolio, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef has established itself as an intimate island retreat, recognised for its warm Maldivian hospitality, natural surroundings and relaxed atmosphere. Following the introduction of new villas earlier this year, the anniversary celebrations will offer a first glimpse of the resort’s latest developments and the next chapter in its evolution.

Three Days of Island Celebrations

The festivities will begin on 28 October with the official opening of YAYA Beach Club, bringing together music, cocktails and beachside celebrations. Taking centre stage will be British-born DJ and creative duo The Flag Twins, Kevin and Karl, founders of the London-based music collective HE&D. Known for their distinctive presence across music and fashion, the twins have collaborated with international fashion houses including Gucci, Armani, Christian Louboutin and Calvin Klein. Since being discovered by Renzo Rosso in 2018, they have built a growing profile within London’s electronic music scene, combining house music, fashion and creative expression. They will be joined by DJ Abee for the opening celebrations, bringing an energetic soundtrack to the island’s newest social venue.

The evening will continue with the grand opening dinner at Tuscany, hosted by Chef Fatjon Goga, an Albanian-born Italian chef whose culinary approach combines Tuscan traditions with contemporary Mediterranean influences. Having worked in acclaimed kitchens including Don Alfonso and Arnolfo, Goga currently leads Osteria Grande in Arezzo’s historic Piazza Grande, bringing a focus on seasonal ingredients and refined Italian flavours.

Live entertainment will accompany the evening, with a performance by Chinese vocalist Zhu Zhihao, whose career includes appearances on CCTV’s Global Chinese Music Chart and Avenue of Stars. DJ Molly will then bring the first day to a close with an Island Beats session.

On 29 October, the programme will move into a more relaxed rhythm, with wellness experiences and culinary activities throughout the day. Visiting practitioner Nour Montasser will lead a morning sound-healing session, followed by breakfast and coffee accompanied by DJ Molly D. Maryna Pavlenko will introduce guests to slow-living practices through a guided conversation and movement session, encouraging moments of relaxation and reconnection.

In the evening, Tuscany will once again take centre stage as Chef Goga hosts an interactive pasta masterclass and dinner, inviting guests to discover the flavours and traditions behind Italian cooking.

The celebrations will continue on 30 October with morning yoga and sound healing led by Maryna and Nour, followed by a special breakfast experience at Tuscany. Guests will also have the opportunity to experience SUP yoga on the lagoon with Wu Feifei, known as Fay-Yoga, a former lululemon brand ambassador and AquaX Academy instructor, alongside Wang Xue from the AquaX team.

The afternoon will feature Float & Feast with live music from Zhu Zhihao, before YAYA Beach Club hosts a finale pool party with DJs Abee and Molly D. The three-day programme will conclude with a culinary storytelling experience hosted by Chef Goga at Tuscany, followed by a final Island Beats celebration featuring Abee and The Flag Twins.

A New Chapter for Sun Siyam Vilu Reef

Beyond the anniversary festivities, the celebrations will offer guests a first introduction to two new experiences at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef.

YAYA Beach Club, introduced as part of Sun Siyam’s Signature Experiences, will bring a fresh social dimension to the resort, combining music, relaxed dining and beachside gatherings throughout the day.

Meanwhile, Tuscany will introduce a new Italian dining experience, inspired by traditional flavours, seasonal ingredients and leisurely meals overlooking the ocean.

Both venues reflect the resort’s ongoing evolution, introducing new ways for guests to experience the island while maintaining the intimate atmosphere and personal hospitality that have defined Sun Siyam Vilu Reef for nearly three decades.

As the resort marks its 28th anniversary, A New Rhythm of the Reef will celebrate its heritage while offering a preview of the experiences shaping its future.

For more information or to explore exclusive offers, visit the Sun Siyam Vilu Reef website.

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Rare vintages meet island luxury: Glenelly Estate takes over RAAYA and VARU by Atmosphere

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Stellenbosch’s finest wines arrive in the Maldives this December 2026 at RAAYA by Atmosphere and VARU by Atmosphere. Both private island resorts within the Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts  portfolio will welcome Glenelly Estate for an exclusive celebration of wine and culinary discovery from 4 to 10 December 2026. Designed to honour the visionary legacy of Glenelly’s 101-year-old founder, May‐Éliane de Lencquesaing, the week-long journey seamlessly weaves her French winemaking heritage with South African terroir through rare vintages, artful pairings, and warm island hospitality.

Hosting these exclusive gatherings is Nina-Mari Bruwer from Glenelly Estate. With over 18 years of winemaking artistry, Nina-Mari brings a deep passion for the stories woven into every vintage. “It is wonderful to return to the Maldives and share Glenelly’s story through its wines,” says Nina-Marie of Glenelly Wine Estate. “Each experience reveals a different side of the estate, from elegant pairings at the table to relaxed, open-air moments that capture the spirit of Stellenbosch.”

RAAYA by Atmosphere

The festivities launch at RAAYA by Atmosphere on 4 December with La Vita Stellenbosch at The Village, an indulgent evening celebrating the vibrant flavours and elegant heritage of the Cape Winelands. On 5 December, the setting shifts to the lush greenery of Seb’s Farm for Garden to Glass – Glenelly Unplugged, an intimate open-air gathering where farm-to-table dining meets fine wine and barefoot island ease. The RAAYA celebration reaches its crescendo on 6 December at AMPERS&ND with Sunset: The Glenelly Golden Hour, where live stations, canapés, and wine come together as the island slips into dusk.

VARU by Atmosphere

The spotlight then moves to VARU by Atmosphere on 8 December, where KAAGÉ & The Cape pairs rich South African winemaking with authentic local traditions during a memorable dinner at the resort’s signature venue. On 9 December, NÜ presents NÜances of the Cape, a dinner exploring the balance, texture, and layered personality of Glenelly’s wines. The visit concludes at Bay Rouge Bar with The Cape Extravaganza, a lively evening of live stations and canapés that offers a fitting farewell to Glenelly’s Maldivian journey.

Reflecting on the milestone, Rohit Salunke, Assistant Director of Wines at Atmosphere Core, shares, “Glenelly’s wines have a remarkable sense of place. Across these six experiences, guests will discover how naturally they complement different cuisines while expressing the distinctive character of Stellenbosch. Marking Atmosphere Core’s 117th wine event in the Maldives, this fourth collaboration reflects our commitment to authentic wine encounters. We look forward to welcoming Nina-Mari Bruwer to our shores and continuing this valued partnership, following the warm hospitality extended to our resort sommeliers in February 2026, when they visited Glenelly’s Stellenbosch winery to experience the harvest of Lady May’s 2026 vintage first-hand.”

This exclusive wine journey is complimentary for in-house guests on the RAAYA Plan™ and VARU Plan™ (with prior reservation). Book your stay at atmospherehotelsandresorts.com to discover the elegance of Glenelly Estate, one exceptional pairing and one memorable island evening at a time.

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