News
Shangri-La’s Villingili invites eco-conscious travellers
Maldives Promotion House – Shangri-La’s lush Villingili Resort & Spa in the Maldives offers a high-end, eco-conscious holiday experience aiming to inspire visitors to share the resort’s responsibility of caring for the environment. Through a range of nature projects, educational excursions and activities at the resort’s interactive Eco Centre an emphasis is placed on conservation which encourages guests to enjoy the island’s natural beauty whilst learning more about it.
Located in the Addu Atoll on Villingili island, the Shangri-La Villingili Resort & Spa is surrounded by nature trails, coral swarms and dive sites inhabited by an array of reef fish and other wildlife for example reef sharks, green turtles, eagle rays and lobsters. The specialist Eco Centre, which is located in the heart of the resort’s Village, provides maps for guests obtain maps to discover the island independently either by bicycle. There are also regular Villingili Nature Walks which are hosted by resort staff and explore the lush rainforests, natural lagoons and stunning beachfront areas surrounding the resort.
Regular talks on topics such as coral reef ecology and the conservation of marine turtles are given by the resort’s CRS Manager, Peter Watt-Pringle who has eight years of experience in marine biology. Peter also invites guests to put their new knowledge into practise as they take part in coral planting which begins with a short introductory presentation on coral protection and the new coral enhancement programme. The group is then taken outdoors to plant coral pieces in the Serenity Bay coral nursery. Although this activity occurs on land, guests are welcome to don their snorkel gear when coral is returned to the water at the end. The Indian Ocean waters provide excellent snorkelling all around the island and encounters with colourful aquatic residents.
In line with its commitment to biodiversity conservation, the Shangri-La group launched Sanctuary, a Care for Nature Project and the resort has created a Reef Care project which aims to foster interest and awareness of marine life and the threats facing it globally, as well as involve guests in activities linked to marine life protection at the resort through activities offered at the Eco Centre.
As a part of a commitment to mitigate impacts on the environment several initiatives were carried out by the resort at construction stage, these include solar panels on the villa roofs which provide up to 50% of the energy consumed by each villa including the heating of water. The villas are also insulated to prevent the cool air from escaping and also fitted with micro switches so that when windows and doors are left open the air con automatically switches off to preserve energy. The resort has also invested in reusable glass bottles and a fully equipped bottling plant, to reduce its consumption of plastic bottles by approximately 240,000 a year.
Since its opening, the resort has established strong relationships with local fishermen and farmers on the Addu Atoll. An agreement was signed with the Foundation of Meedhoo Development, a neighbouring local island, committing to purchase local fruits and vegetables. This initiative aims to contribute to the economic development of the local community, minimise the release of carbon that results from flying in produce from all over the world and offer guests fresh quality produce.
With its commitment to operating in an economically, socially and environmentally responsible manner, Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa is the perfect choice for an eco-friendly escape in the stunning setting of the Maldives.
News
CROSSROADS Maldives unveils seamless island-hopping concept across 3 resorts
CROSSROADS Maldives, the country’s first fully integrated lifestyle destination, unveils its new multi-destination experience “1 Journey, 3 Vibes” combining three distinct resort identities in a single, effortless stay. Launching this May, the programme removes the usual logistical hurdles of island-hopping by keeping everything within one connected destination, allowing guests to make the most of their time while eliminating the need for domestic flights or costly seaplane transfers. Guests arrive just 15 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport and begin their journey immediately.
Designed to cater to travellers of all generations, the experience unfolds across three distinct resort environments, each offering a different rhythm and perspective of the Maldives. Guests are invited to curate their journey with flexible stay options, from an immersive nine-night experience across all three resorts to a four-night escape across two. Each stay includes full board dining, complimentary return speedboat transfers, a dedicated personal butler, and a bespoke CROSSROADS Passport stamped at every resort.
The experience opens at SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, where holidaymakers ease into island living with family-focused moments and wellness, from yoga sessions to padel on the water’s edge. The tempo then shifts at Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, where a high-energy, music-driven atmosphere takes centre stage and the brand’s celebrated Sound of Your Stay programme immerses guests in signature Hard Rock experiences. The final chapter unfolds at the fashion-forward SO/ Maldives, where a more refined pace awaits. Here, design-led spaces, elevated overwater living and curated lifestyle experiences cater to style-conscious travellers and luxury seekers, offering a sophisticated contrast that completes the journey.
“Whether it’s honeymooners or families, travellers today want variety without the hassle,” said Alexander Traeger, General Manager, SAii Lagoon Maldives and The marina @ CROSSROADS. “The new concept solves a long-standing friction point in the Maldives: the desire to experience multiple resorts without the cost, complexity or time lost to transfers. With one booking and one seamless journey, guests can enjoy a full 360-degree Maldivian experience.”
Connecting all three resorts is The Marina @ CROSSROADS, a lively waterfront hub that adds a cosmopolitan dimension to the Maldivian escape. Guests can dine at more than a dozen restaurants, including Ministry of Crab and Hard Rock Cafe, explore the Marine Discovery Centre and Maldives Discovery Centre, browse boutique shops, unwind with spa treatments or drop little ones at the kids’ club.
The 1 Journey, 3 Vibes package is available for bookings through 31 October, for stays through 20 December 2026. The Standard Package (USD 7,780) includes three nights each in a SAii Beach Room, a Hard Rock Gold Beach Pool Villa and a SO/ Maldives Ocean Water Pool Villa. The Premium Package (USD 8,880) elevates the experience with three nights each in a SAii Beach Villa with Pool, a Hard Rock Platinum Overwater Pool Villa and a SO/ Maldives Ocean Water Pool Villa. Four-night stay options are also available, providing added flexibility to suit different travel preferences.
For reservations, please book directly via rsvn.lagoon@saiihotels.com.
News
Eid celebrations rooted in Maldivian culture headline Sun Siyam Resorts summer offers
This Eid Al Adha, Sun Siyam invites Gulf travellers to swap city skylines for turquoise lagoons, white-sand beaches, and immersive island celebrations across some of the Indian Ocean’s most sought-after destinations. From authentic Maldivian cultural festivities and elevated private villa experiences to family-friendly escapes and bespoke wellness retreats, Sun Siyam presents a collection of unforgettable Eid getaways tailored for couples, families, and groups seeking meaningful moments this festive season.

A Celebration Rooted in Maldivian Culture
At Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Eid Al Adha will be celebrated through a thoughtfully curated day dedicated to Maldivian heritage and island traditions. Guests can enjoy traditional evening tea gatherings at Magoodhoo Beach, experience the folklore-inspired story of Bodu Mas, and come together for Eid Farivalhu, a communal feast served on a traditional Malaafaiy platter. The celebrations continue with a special dinner buffet featuring local and international flavours, followed by the resort’s signature Maldivian Roots cultural show accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of Boduberu drumming.

Guests visiting during Eid can also take advantage of the resort’s summer offer, including complimentary seaplane transfers, spa privileges, family benefits, and curated island experiences.
Refined Island Living for Couples and Families
At Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, Eid celebrations blend refined luxury with heartfelt island hospitality. From the moment guests arrive to the sound of Boduberu drumming and signature organic welcome drinks, the resort offers a seamless “home away from home” atmosphere. The newly renovated Water Villas with Pool provide enhanced privacy, expansive decks, and personalised butler service, creating the perfect setting for an indulgent Eid escape. Guests can enjoy floating breakfasts, wellness rituals at The Spa by Thalgo, Jet Car adventures with drone videography, elegant White Soirees, Lobster Barbecue Nights, and private cinema screenings beneath the stars.

The resort’s Premium All-Inclusive Dine Around experience includes access to 15 restaurants and bars, with flavours spanning authentic Maldivian cuisine, Italian favourites, and South-East Asian specialties. Families can also enjoy complimentary stays and dining for up to two children when accompanied by two paying adults.
Vibrant Island Energy and Family Escapes
For families and groups after a livelier Eid, Sun Siyam Olhuveli and Siyam World deliver on all fronts — beachside gatherings, sunset celebrations, island adventures, and a non-stop programme of entertainment spread across multiple islands. At Sun Siyam Olhuveli, guests can also look forward to special live performances by belly dancer Marianna alongside energetic sets by DJ Abo, bringing an added festive atmosphere to the Eid celebrations. Both resorts are built around togetherness, making them natural fits for larger parties celebrating the spirit of Eid.

Bespoke Summer Escapes in the Indian Ocean
For travellers seeking a more secluded retreat, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef offers an intimate island experience complete with complimentary seaplane transfers, floating breakfasts, dolphin cruises, spa credits, and private experiences including Cinema by Moonlight. Beyond the Maldives, Sun Siyam Pasikudah presents a serene coastal escape in Sri Lanka, combining wellness, adventure, and curated culinary experiences. Guests can enjoy complimentary spa sessions, kayaking, bicycle adventures, exclusive room upgrade savings, and romantic dining experiences designed for couples and families alike.

Your Eid Travels Awaits
Sun Siyam’s summer offers extend the celebration further, with exclusive savings and added benefits across the collection, available for bookings until 31 August 2026, for stays until 31 October 2027. Whether seeking barefoot luxury, cultural immersion, family adventures, or wellness escapes, Gulf travellers will find the perfect Eid setting across Sun Siyam’s Indian Ocean properties, with direct GCC connectivity and a collection of distinct island experiences to match every kind of celebration.

For reservations and more information, visit sunsiyam.com.
Drink
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef marks World Cocktail Day with sustainable cocktail experiences
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, part of the Privé collection within the House of Siyam, marks World Cocktail Day with a transformative celebration of Green Mixology blending creativity with a deep-rooted commitment to environmental stewardship with additional engaging activities.
The resort’s beverage philosophy centres on a zero-waste approach, where every ingredient is utilised to its full potential. Guests are welcomes to observe the sophisticated discipline of the bar team as they transform overlooked elements into artisanal accents, such as dehydrating organic citrus peels in-house to create fragrant, sustainable garnishes. By replacing industrial imports with these handcrafted touches, the sanctuary ensures that every drink remains an authentic reflection of its iridescent surroundings. Guests can join the expert bar team for immersive mixology lessons to master these sustainable creations firsthand.

In addition to traditional favourites, these liquid creations highlight a dedicated Island-to-Table ethos, incorporating seasonal greens and herbs harvested directly from the resort’s flourishing gardens. The celebration was further elevated by a spectacular Flair Bartending Show, showcasing technical precision and artistry in motion, choreographed to the energy of the island.

Each curated experience at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef invites guests toast to a future of mindful indulgence, where the luxury of the moment is perfectly balanced with the preservation of the surrounding environment.
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