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W Maldives welcomes Ku Nakanelua as the retreat’s W Insider

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W Retreat & Spa Maldives has announced the appointment of Ms. Ku Nakanelua as the retreat’s W Insider – W Hotels’ adaption of a concierge, the W Insider gives the retreats guests access to all that Maldives has to offer in terms of W Happenings, entertainment, sightseeing and once in a lifetime activities whilst in the Maldives.

Ku, a native of Hawaii brings to the Maldives a wealth of experience, including 8 years of service with W San Francisco and W Hollywood in the United States. With a passion for fashion Ku created her own modeling agency. Ku left America for the fashion capital of Milan, where she was able to learn Italian whilst studying German and Japanese.

Haroon Mohamed Welcome Manager, says “Guests at W Maldives expect an experience that is a universe away from the norm, quite often their trip to the Maldives is to celebrate a special occasion such as their honeymoon or anniversary and they want ‘Insider Access’ to the Maldives and to the retreat – with Ku as our W Insider, we will be able to amplify our guests experience throughout their stay at W Maldives”.

Ku’s Insider Tips: 

  • Experience electric views as the sun dips over the crest of the Indian Ocean while sipping on a signature cocktail specially prepared by W Mixologist at SIP, the retreats sunset lounge bar.
  • Escape to Gaathafushi – the retreats own private island.  A short speedboat ride to the deserted island is yours to explore for a few hours, or a full day.  A real ‘Robinson Crusoe’ experience.
  • Snorkel the island with a guide from WAVE – W’s watersports team.  The coral reef around AWAY Spa is a favorite of many guests where the underwater scenery is just steps away from the shoreline.
  • W Maldives infinite nights come to life when night snorkeling around the house reef. One of the very best in the Maldives.  You will be surprised by the vibrant and pulsating fluorescent colors of our underwater guests.
  • Turn up the heat as the sun goes down every Monday, energize with Brazilian beats, indulge with Cuban cigars and savor stylish mojitos while hanging out beach side.

Ku said “I am thrilled to join W Maldives and in true W Insider fashion, I’m promising to deliver an exclusive experience that will be both unexpected & extraordinary. Come and join me in the Maldives.”

W Maldives is a tropical playground in the Indian Ocean perfect for relaxing, playing, and recharging for your next adventure. Connect with inner peace and go along with the pace of island life. Succumb to an inviting concept of dazzling blue waters, spectacular reefs and pristine sands infused with style and soul.

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Baros Maldives’ The Lighthouse to present Duval-Leroy champagne pairing experience

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Baros Maldives invites guests and discerning epicureans to an exclusive Champagne pairing dinner at The Lighthouse, the island’s iconic fine-dining restaurant, on 4 March 2026. Hosted for one evening only by Louis Duval-Leroy, family representative and Brand Ambassador of Maison Duval-Leroy, the intimate five-course experience celebrates the harmony between refined gastronomy and Champagne craftsmanship.

Perched above the Indian Ocean with panoramic ocean views, The Lighthouse is synonymous with Baros’ culinary philosophy. Long regarded as a benchmark for fine dining in the Maldives, the restaurant is known for its elegant setting, considered menus, and a focus on precision and technique. This one-night collaboration brings together Baros’ culinary team and the heritage of one of Champagne’s notable family-owned houses.

Founded in 1859, Maison Duval-Leroy is recognised for its Chardonnay-driven style, contemporary approach, and commitment to terroir and sustainability. Independent and family-owned for six generations, the House has been a pioneer in responsible viticulture, becoming the first Champagne house to achieve ISO 9002 certification in 1994, followed by Sustainable Viticulture in Champagne certification in 2015.

Representing the sixth generation, Louis Duval-Leroy brings both heritage and a modern perspective to the estate. With a background in business and extensive commercial experience, he has developed close relationships with chefs and sommeliers across the international fine-dining community. During the evening, he will personally guide guests through each cuvée, sharing insights into the philosophy, craftsmanship, and stories behind every Champagne.

The five-course menu has been carefully curated to complement the character of each pairing. Highlights include Smoked Goat Cheese Parfait with golden beets, paired with Duval-Leroy Brut Réserve; a Black Cod Mosaic matched with Brut Rosé Prestige Premier Cru; and a Lemon Meringue Tart served alongside Prestige Premier Cru Blanc de Blancs.

The Duval-Leroy Champagne Pairing Dinner offers an opportunity to experience Baros Maldives through destination dining, heritage Champagne, and an oceanfront setting.

With limited seating available, advance reservations are recommended. For bookings and enquiries, please contact +960 664 2672 or email reservations@baros.com.

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Awards

Villa Park secures second straight HolidayCheck Award

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Villa Park has been recognised with the HolidayCheck Award 2026 for the second consecutive year, reflecting continued guest trust and consistently strong feedback.

Set on one of the Maldives’ largest natural islands in the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) region, Villa Park is a standout choice for families seeking a lush, activity-filled escape. With tropical greenery woven throughout the island, long stretches of beach, and a wide range of experiences to suit every age, the resort offers the space and variety that make family travel feel effortless. From active lagoon days to slower, restorative moments, families can shape each day around what matters most to them.

Villa Park is also home to an extensive range of Beach Pool Villas, offering picture-perfect settings designed for easy indoor-outdoor living. Surrounded by palms and gardens, these private stays deliver the bright, tropical backdrop guests return for and love to capture.

For families, the island experience is elevated further by Park Players, positioned as the Maldives’ largest kids’ club, with a dedicated world of play, creativity, and discovery. The combination of nature, space, and things to do across the island continues to shape Villa Park’s reputation as one of the Maldives’ most trusted family resorts.

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Love

Azur rooftop at JEN Maldives sets stage for Valentine’s Day dining

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JEN Maldives by Shangri-La is set to mark Valentine’s Day with a curated rooftop dining experience at Azur Rooftop, combining ocean views, live music and a specially designed menu for couples.

Taking place against the backdrop of the Malé skyline and the Indian Ocean, the Valentine’s Day dinner is designed for couples seeking an intimate yet lively evening. The experience begins with a Tropical Sweetheart welcome drink, blending strawberry, lime and honey, followed by an amuse-bouche served as a shared moment between partners, featuring romesco mousse in a rye tart.

The dinner continues with a selection of starters including Indonesian chicken satay with peanut sauce and a chilled watermelon coconut gazpacho. A passion fruit and mango sorbet is served as a palate cleanser ahead of the main courses.

For the main course, guests may choose between roasted chicken with thyme and beet jus, seared seabass with smoked paprika mashed potatoes, or beetroot risotto finished with burrata. The dining experience concludes with a dessert sequence titled Kiss Me Goodnight, accompanied by petit fours such as dark chocolate passion bites and strawberry rose macarons. Illy coffee, teas, chilled juices and soft drinks are also included.

Live music performances by Akku will accompany the evening, adding to the rooftop ambience created by soft lighting, décor and panoramic views.

The Valentine’s Day dinner at Azur Rooftop is priced at USD 110 per couple, inclusive of all taxes and service charges. Advance reservations are recommended and can be made by calling +960 330 0888.

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