News
Vakkaru Maldives celebrates connection and discovery with Silk Road festive programme
Vakkaru Maldives invites guests to embark on a Silk Road-inspired journey this festive season, featuring a rich programme of celebrations, dining, wellness, family experiences and island adventures from 13 December 2026 to 9 January 2027.
For centuries, the Silk Road connected East and West through a network of routes stretching across continents. Along them travelled silk, tea, spices and precious stones, as well as ideas, traditions and stories that brought distant cultures into contact with one another. This spirit of discovery and exchange inspires Vakkaru’s festive season.
Throughout the season, dining experiences draw inspiration from cultures along and beyond the historic routes, alongside celebrations, live entertainment, wellness, family activities and experiences in and around the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll.
“The Silk Road is ultimately a story of connection, of people, cultures and traditions meeting and enriching one another,” says Teddy Susanto Wiryawan, General Manager of Vakkaru Maldives. “That feels especially meaningful during the festive season, when families and friends come together from around the world. This year, we wanted to create a programme that celebrates that spirit of discovery and generosity while remaining true to the timeless rhythm of life at Vakkaru.”

Christmas by the Indian Ocean
The celebrations begin to gather pace on 17 December with Vakkaru’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and anniversary celebration on Vakku Beach, bringing guests together for an evening of music, Maldivian Boduberu and family festivities.
On Christmas Eve, guests can spend the afternoon on a guided turtle snorkelling excursion before gathering for cocktails on Isoletta Beach. The evening continues with the Christmas Eve Gala Dinner on Vakku Beach, where festive classics, fresh seafood and flavours from around the world are accompanied by live music and entertainment beneath the stars.
Christmas Day begins on and beneath the water, with a guided house reef dive and a yacht cruise among dolphins. Santa arrives at Vakku Beach later in the morning, while special Christmas dining continues throughout the day.
Between the major celebrations, the island continues with a changing programme of dining and experiences. Guests can discover everything from Korean barbecue and Nikkei-inspired menus to Spanish tapas and paella, Southeast Asian flavours, and lobster dinners by the sea. Vakkaru Reserve takes wine beyond the cellar with sunset tastings on the sandbank, while mixology classes, cooking experiences and evenings of music and cocktails add to the programme. Days can also be spent exploring Baa Atoll, with diving, snorkelling and family marine experiences offering a distinctly Maldivian counterpoint to the Silk Road theme.

Following the Silk Road into the New Year
As the final days of 2026 approach, the Silk Road provides inspiration for the island’s family programme. Younger guests at Parrotfish Club explore themed days inspired by the ancient routes, the Far East, world music and the sea, with activities ranging from map-making and batik to a Silk Route Fashion Parade on New Year’s Eve.
At the heart of the New Year celebrations is the New Year’s Eve Gala: The Silk Road Journey on Vakku Beach. An international feast inspired by the flavours and spirit of the Silk Road is accompanied by live music, dance, and performances. At midnight, fireworks illuminate the sky as guests welcome 2027 on the shores of Baa Atoll.
New Year’s Day starts with a celebratory brunch at Amaany. At the same time, certified divers can make their first dive of 2027 in the waters surrounding the island.

A Return to Wellness at Merana Spa
Japanese holistic practitioner Yoko Kawaguchi returns to Merana Spa for her second Vakkaru residency of 2026, following her first residency earlier in the year.
Originally from Japan, Yoko takes a highly personalised approach to wellbeing, drawing on techniques including auriculotherapy, aromatherapy, Reiki energy healing and targeted massage. Her treatments focus on calming the nervous system, releasing tension and supporting the body’s natural restorative functions.
Throughout the festive season, guests can book treatments including Auriculotherapy for Holistic Wellbeing, Chakra Balance and Japanese Reiki Infusion, Deep Back Release Massage, Silent Mind Ritual and Personalised Emotional and Hormonal Support. Complimentary consultations and selected wellness sessions, including Self-Reiki Healing and Hand Reflexology Massage, will also be available.

The Journey Continues to Orthodox Christmas
Celebrations continue into January in the lead-up to Orthodox Christmas. Family programming introduces traditions including the Russian New Year tree and Matryoshka-inspired activities, culminating in the arrival of Ded Moroz, the traditional Slavic Father Frost, on 6 January.
That evening, guests gather on Vakku Beach for an Orthodox Christmas cocktail party followed by the Orthodox Gala Dinner, with a festive buffet, live music and entertainment by the ocean.
From Christmas and New Year to Orthodox Christmas, the Silk Road weaves through nearly four weeks of celebrations at Vakkaru, bringing together food, music, traditions, wellness, and experiences from around the world in the natural setting of Baa Atoll.

Discover the full programme of festive celebrations and experiences in Vakkaru Maldives’ digital festive brochure here. For further information about the resort, please visit vakkarumaldives.com or contact reservations@vakkarumaldives.com to make a reservation.
Action
Daniil Medvedev, Paula Badosa and Donna Vekić head to St. Regis Maldives for tennis series
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.
News
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef celebrates 28 years with new beach club and Italian restaurant
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.
Drink
Rare vintages meet island luxury: Glenelly Estate takes over RAAYA and VARU by Atmosphere
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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