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Dusit Thani Maldives celebrates grand opening

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Maldives Promotion House – Dusit International has yesterday celebrated the grand opening of its milestone property, the Dusit Thani Maldives in a ceremony that saw President Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik and First Lady, Madam Illham Hussain, as guests of honour. Also in attendance was the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Ahmed Adeeb Abdul Ghafoor.

VIP guests representing the Dusit group included Chanin Donavanik, CEO of Dusit International and Chatri Sophonpanich, Chairman of Dusit Thani Public Company limited and the DMS board of directors.

The now fully operational Dusit Thani Maldives is yet another jewel in the Dusit International crown and while it looks to be hugely successful as a luxurious resort hotel that has already enjoyed an unprecedented reception as an eco conscious travel experience par excellence, it is also recognized by its host country as making a significant contribution to the local economy.

In this regard, the President Dr. Waheed said, “The Republic of the Maldives will not only benefit from economic gains and job creation as a result of Dusit International’s investment, but equally, if not more important, is the legacy afforded by the education opportunities that Dusit International will introduce to this country.”

The President continued, “the group has created a blue print to develop their well established and highly successful hospitality college in the Maldives.”

President Dr. Waheed said that this is a major milestone for the tourism industry and it is imperative in order to continue to maintain high standards and opportunities for all Maldivians. He noted that the tourism today is the single largest contributor to the national economy, representing some 30% of our GDP.  He added that the strengthening of our tourism education infrastructure will allow us to ensure that the Maldives remains the leading global luxury tourism destination.

Furthermore, the President highlighted that the tourism sector has never been more buoyant – and the government is on target to achieve our goal of our One Millionth tourist arrival this year.

Indeed the number of visitors from Southeast Asia alone – particularly Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia – increased by almost 14% in the first half of 2012. We look forward to this trend continuing with the opening of Dusit Thani Maldives, a well-known and respected Asian brand with deep Thai roots,” he said.

Chanin Donavanik, CEO of Dusit International said, “It has always been the dream of Dusit International to establish a hotel property on this beautiful island destination. To see the dream transformed into the reality of the Dusit Thani Maldives is a source of tremendous pride and satisfaction for the entire Dusit group.”

The CEO said that Thanpuying Chanut Piyaoui opened the Dusit Thani College in 1993 and confirmed that the Dusit Thani College is in the process of being established in the Maldives.

“We have much confidence in the Maldives.  We believe that our investment will be greatly beneficial and look forward to long-term success as full business partners in the tourism industry,” he said.

Located on Mudhdhoo Island in Baa Atoll, Dusit Thani Maldives is 35 minutes by seaplane from the capital Malé and only 10 minutes by speed boat from the new domestic airport opening soon. It is also just a short boat ride away from Hanifaru Huraa, the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

General Manager, Desmond Hatton said, “It is a natural environment that has inspired and motivated the design of Dusit Thani Maldives to ensure that it co-exists in harmony with the magnificent Maldivian biodiversity. We are also doing everything we can here to set standards for sustainability. Our entire operation is geared toward achieving a carbon-neutral programme using pioneering, green energy solutions.”

The fully operational Dusit Thani Maldives comprises a luxurious collection of exclusive guest villas and residences that feature a host of amenities including a complimentary Wi-Fi internet connection, 46” LED IPTV with satellite channels, BOSE surround sound systems, wine chiller and Nespresso coffee. The resort also features three restaurants, two bars and Dusit’s signature Devarana Spa, uniquely elevated above a grove of coconut palm trees.

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Mandara Spa joins Global Wellness Day’s 15th anniversary celebrations

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As Global Wellness Day celebrates its 15th anniversary under the theme #JoyMagenta, Mandara Spa proudly joins the global movement in reaffirming a belief that has long shaped its philosophy: wellness is not simply a ritual of self-care, but a meaningful expression of joy, balance, and human connection.

On Saturday, 13 June 2026, millions of people across more than 170 countries will come together to celebrate Global Wellness Day, the internationally recognised not for profit initiative dedicated to inspiring healthier and more mindful living. This year’s theme, #JoyMagenta, highlights the importance of joy as an essential part of emotional and physical wellbeing.

For Mandara Spa, this milestone carries a deeper significance. For fifteen years, Mandara Spa has grown alongside Global Wellness Day, united by a shared belief that wellbeing is found not only in treatments and rituals, but in the simple human moments that restore connection, presence, and joy.

Since the movement’s early years, Mandara Spa has embraced the spirit of Global Wellness Day through experiences designed to encourage restoration, mindfulness, and genuine care. What began as a shared philosophy has evolved into a longstanding alignment rooted in accessibility, intentional living, and holistic wellbeing.

Inspired by the healing traditions of Asia, Mandara Spa continues to bring these values to life across its destinations throughout the Maldives, Indonesia, and the wider Asia Pacific region through thoughtfully curated wellness journeys that nurture both body and spirit.

In celebration of Global Wellness Day 2026, participating Mandara Spa locations across the region will introduce curated wellness experiences and thoughtful guest activations inspired by this year’s #JoyMagenta theme.

From mindful movement sessions and wellness rituals to restorative spa experiences and moments of quiet reflection, each initiative is designed to encourage guests to reconnect with themselves and embrace joy as an essential part of wellbeing.

At Mandara Spa, joy is found in the smallest details: a calming breath, a healing touch, a peaceful pause, or the feeling of being fully present in the moment.

“Wellness, at its heart, has always been deeply connected to joy. As Global Wellness Day marks its 15th anniversary, we celebrate not only an important global milestone, but also a shared belief that caring for ourselves and others remains one of life’s most meaningful experiences,” said an official from Mandara Spa.

Founded in 2012 by wellness visionary Belgin Aksoy, Global Wellness Day has grown into one of the world’s most recognised wellness initiatives, inspiring millions through free and accessible wellness activities held annually around the globe.

Mandara Spa is honoured to continue supporting a movement that champions wellbeing as a universal need rather than a luxury, while encouraging individuals and communities to embrace healthier and more mindful lifestyles.

As wellness continues to evolve globally, Mandara Spa remains committed to delivering experiences rooted in authenticity, care, and the timeless traditions of Asian wellness.

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W Maldives launches Escape Remix for a two-sided island getaway

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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.

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Lily Beach secures 7 nominations across leading travel award platforms

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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.

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