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New marine biologist at Conrad Maldives reveals underwater secrets

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Maldives Promotion House – Conrad Maldives Rangali Island welcomes the arrival of marine biologist Lydia Koehler to the five star SubAqua Dive Center.  Koehler will run twice-weekly complimentary guided tours of the resort’s exceptional coral reef in order to give guests a better understanding of the incredible diversity of underwater life and how to safely enjoy it.  These complimentary tours begin with a 30-minute presentation introducing the most common animals to be found on the reef followed by a guided snorkelling session on the resort’s house reef which is just steps from the main beach.

“The reef at Conrad Maldives is one of the best in the atoll with a truly impressive variety of fish, corals and other wildlife,” says Carsten Schieck, general manager.  “These complimentary tours make it possible for guests to discover the many wonders of the underwater world in a safe and appealing way”.

During these excursions, guests may encounter turtles, rays and harmless reef sharks and explore the world of countless fascinating smaller animals such as clownfish, butterflyfish, pufferfish or even the outlandish unicorn fish.  They will learn more about the incredible corals of the reef and the symbiotic relationship between them and the fauna that inhabit them.  Rarer creatures such as manta rays, mobula rays, dolphins or even a whale shark may also make an occasional appearance.

While based at the Sub Aqua Dive Center, Koehler will run several conservation and research projects at the resort, such as monitoring the health and status of the coral and fish on the house reef.  She is also ‘baby sitter’ to 147 endangered baby turtles who recently hatched on the resort’s beaches and are being protected until they are old enough to survive being released into the ocean.

In winter, she will take advantage of the unique opportunity afforded by the resort’s location to study the manta rays that visit the resort every night and can be easily watched from the bridge that spans the resort’s two islands.  She will create a manta identification programme to aid understanding of manta behavior patterns and ensure the resort is able to effectively protect these awe-inspiring creatures.

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Sun Siyam Iru Veli curates Easter experience with dining and live entertainment

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This Easter, Sun Siyam Iru Veli invites guests to enjoy a magical island programme from April 2nd to 6th, 2026, inspired by shimmering ocean blues and playful coastal elements. Part of Sun Siyam’s Privé Collection, the resort presents a five-day celebration where curated dining, family-friendly activities, wellness moments, and live entertainment come together to create an immersive Easter escape for couples and families alike.

At the heart of the celebration is Easter Day, when the island comes alive with experiences for all ages. Families can enjoy the Grand Easter Egg Hunt and Cocoa & Bunny moments, where little ones can meet and pet bunnies while sipping hot cocoa, while the Magical Splash Pool Party celebration brings together music, refreshments, and a lively island atmosphere. As evening falls, a Special Easter Buffet opens, followed by Wonders of the Ocean—a captivating live performance that brings a sense of magic to the lagoon setting.

The enchanting evening is brought to life through performances by magician Ahmed Shaman. Known for his engaging and interactive style, his work celebrates local talent while adding a sense of wonder to the island. From close-up illusions to playful mind-reading moments, each performance invites guests to become part of the experience, creating memories that feel both personal and unforgettable. His presence reflects the resort’s ongoing commitment to showcasing Maldivian artistry while enriching the guest journey.

Throughout the week, guests can explore a diverse lineup of experiences, including themed international buffets, beachfront lobster BBQ under the stars, cocktail nights, and live music. Younger guests are engaged through creative and playful activities, such as Easter card making, egg painting, kite flying, and musical games. The Ocean Spa welcomes all to unwind with special promotions that aim to bring a soft, seasonal glow to both mind and body. From sandbank picnics to sunset entertainment and wellness-led experiences, Easter 2026 at Sun Siyam Iru Veli invites guests to create lasting memories in a setting shaped by the shimmering lagoons and the rhythm of the ocean.

For more information and to book your Easter escape, please visit Sun Siyam Iru Veli Offers page

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TIME recognises Six Senses Laamu among World’s Greatest Places for 2026

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TIME Magazine has named Six Senses Laamu to its prestigious World’s Greatest Places of 2026 list, recognising destinations that offer extraordinary experiences, innovation, and meaningful impact around the globe. The accolade highlights the resort’s pioneering marine conservation initiatives and its immersive approach to sustainability-driven luxury in the Maldives.

“Being recognised by TIME as one of the world’s greatest places is an incredible honour for our team,” said Marteyne van Well, Regional General Manager. “Our vision has always been to demonstrate that hospitality and meaningful environmental stewardship can coexist. This accolade celebrates the dedication of our entire resort team, and local community who work every day to protect Laamu’s remarkable ecosystem.”

Situated in the remote Laamu Atoll, Six Senses Laamu is distinguished by its integration of environmental research into the guest experience. Central to this effort is the Sea Hub for Environmental Learning in Laamu (SHELL), a purpose-built marine research centre that hosts resident NGOs and one of the world’s most ambitious resort-based conservation programmes.

Through the creation of the Maldives Underwater Initiative (MUI) in collaboration with different NGOs, the resort has played a key role in reef restoration and marine research across the atoll. Following the global coral bleaching event of 2024, scientists released three million coral larvae grown in on-site laboratories onto damaged reefs while cloning vulnerable coral species to support ecosystem recovery.

The resort also supports groundbreaking research initiatives across the Laamu Atoll. The Manta Trust has catalogued more than 150 individual manta rays in the region and utilises the world’s first underwater contactless ultrasound scanner to monitor pregnant mantas, while the Olive Ridley Project leads critical sea turtle conservation programmes. Ongoing seagrass research has also identified previously undocumented species and confirmed these ecosystems as vital nurseries for reef fish.

A defining element of Six Senses Laamu is how these scientific initiatives are woven directly into the guest experience. Visitors can explore the laboratories and galleries at SHELL, participate in marine conservation initiatives, dive alongside working biologists, and earn specialty diving certifications focused on manta rays and reef ecosystems.

Surrounded by turquoise waters, Six Senses Laamu features overwater and beachfront villas built with sustainably sourced materials and is the only five-star resort in Laamu Atoll, Maldives. The resort continues to serve as a model for how hospitality can support scientific discovery and long-term environmental protection while delivering unforgettable guest experiences.

For more information, please visit the resort’s website.

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A new approach to family travel at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa

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As multigenerational travel continues to shape luxury hospitality, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa offers a considered response with experiences designed for every age group. From duplex villas that provide both shared and private living spaces, to an immersive children’s program and the interactive JW Garden, the resort addresses the evolving needs of modern families. Parents and grandparents are equally prioritised, with serene escapes such as the adults-only infinity pool and dining experiences that elegantly balance family-friendly atmosphere with refined culinary artistry.

Set within the natural beauty of the Shaviyani Atoll, the resort reflects a broader shift towards more intentional, experience-led family travel in the Maldives.

Architectural Harmony for Families

At the centre of this offering are the resort’s duplex villas, meticulously crafted designed to accommodate multigenerational living. Spanning two levels, these villas introduce a natural separation between shared and private spaces, allowing families to gather with ease while preserving individual retreat. Available across both overwater and beachfront settings, each villas features expansive indoor-outdoor living areas, private pools, and panoramic views, creating an environment that feels both spacious and intuitively personal. In a destination often defined by one-bedroom villa concepts, this layout presents a more considered approach to family stays in the Maldives.

Discovery and Education at the JW Garden

Rooted in the resort’s “Stay in the Moment” philosophy, the JW Garden serves as a sensory sanctuary where families can reconnect with nature. Beyond providing fresh, seasonal ingredients for the resort’s kitchens, the garden offers a unique educational platform for younger guests. Through the kids’ program, children are invited to participate in hands-on gardening, learning about local flora and the journey from “Garden to Table”.

Immersive Play for Every Age

At the heart of the family offering, the Family by JW – Little Griffins Kids’ Club presents an immersive underwater-inspired world, complete with its signature pirate ship. A weekly program of over 100 activities encourages creativity and discovery, from pizza and smoothie-making to interactive treasure hunts. Extended opening hours provide flexibility for families, alongside the added benefit of complimentary dining for children.

Beyond the kids’ experience, the resort caters to every generation. A dedicated Teens Lounge, equipped with PlayStation 5, air hockey, and foosball, offers a social space tailored to older children, while adults can retreat to Pool 18, the resort’s adults-only infinity pool. The Horizon Pool, overlooking uninterrupted ocean views, provides a more relaxed setting for families to gather.

Families can explore the island with ease through complimentary bicycles available for both adults and children, encouraging a gentle pace of discovery. The Horizon Pool, overlooking uninterrupted ocean views, provides a relaxed setting for shared moments, while Pool 18, the adults-only infinity pool, offers a more tranquil retreat.

Culinary Journey

Culinary experiences across the resort reflect a balanced approach to family dining, ensuring everyone finds something delightful to savour. Each restaurant features dedicated children’s menus, deliberately curated to include nutritious and appealing options that cater to young taste buds. Dining at our resort is not just about the food, it’s about bringing families together. The menus are curated to offer a range of flavours, from comfort food classics to more adventurous culinary options across the restaurants. One of the most enchanting experiences is the Boduberu night on the beach, where families can indulge in authentic Maldivian cuisine while enjoying traditional drumming. The communal dining setup fosters a festival-like atmosphere, transforming an evening into a cherished family gathering.

“Families today are seeking more than just space, they are looking for meaningful ways to reconnect across generations,” said Mohit Dembla, General Manager of JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa. “Our approach is centred on creating an environment where both shared experiences and personal moments can coexist”.

A Legacy of Island Living

With 60 spacious villas, each featuring a private pool and panoramic views of the turquoise waters. Guests can choose between beachfront serenity or the tranquillity of overwater living. Attentive service by a personal Thakuru (butler), ensuring every detail is tailored to their needs. Additionally, guests are also invited to explore the natural beauty of the island by bicycle, encouraging unhurried discovery across the island’s lush pathways.

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