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Shangri-La’s Villingili invites eco-conscious travellers

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Shangri-La's Villingili

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.

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German winemaker Patrick Heitlinger to headline exclusive dinner at SO/ Maldives

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On 07th March, SO/ Maldives collaborates with Germany’s prestigious family wineries, Weingut Heitlinger and Burg Ravensburg, to present an intimate and stylish Winemaker’s Dinner a celebration of modern Pinot set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Maldives.

In a refined fusion of European heritage and island glamour, SO/ Maldives will host third-generation winemaker Patrick Jacklin Heitlinger and his wife Lilly for a singular evening dedicated to craftsmanship, storytelling, and exceptional wine.

At the heart of Weingut Heitlinger lies a philosophy of balance, tradition reimagined for the modern palate. As a proud VDP estate, the winery is known for its biodynamic approach and its expressive Pinot wines that range from vibrant estate selections to complex single-vineyard masterpieces.

Hosted in the fashion-forward surroundings of SO/ Maldives, the evening unfolds as an intimate encounter between vineyard and island. Guests will indulge in a meticulously curated five-course menu, each dish artfully paired with Heitlinger’s celebrated Pinot wines revealing layers of texture, minerality, and character.

Between courses, Patrick and Lilly will share personal stories of their heritage in Tiefenbach, of vineyards kissed by German sunshine, and of a family legacy that continues to evolve with grace and ambition.

SO Maldives

This collaboration is more than a dinner it is a meeting of worlds: German terroir and Maldivian glamour, biodynamic purity and contemporary luxury, heritage and haute living.

Seats are limited for this exclusive one-night affair.

For more information or to book your perfect getaway, please visit so-maldives.com or contact so.maldives.reservations@so-hotels.com or call +960 664-9100

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An invitation to savour the good life at Le Méridien Maldives

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There are Maldives resorts, and then there is Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa. Set on the pristine Thilamaafushi island in the Lhaviyani Atoll, the chic, eco-conscious retreat transforms the Maldivian escape into a journey of exploration, creativity and the art of savouring life’s simple pleasures. Surrounded by turquoise lagoons and a vibrant housereef, each day unfolds at the rhythm of the ocean, guided by elevated dining, meaningful experiences and moments crafted to inspire discovery, indulgence and lasting memories.

From extraordinary marine encounters and globally influenced gastronomy to year-round sun-soaked experiences and island living tailored for couples, families and friends, the resort embodies the hallmarks of meaningful travel today: authenticity, creativity and sustainability.

Nature as an experience, not a backdrop

At Le Méridien Maldives, nature is not observed, it is experienced. Through Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy™, guests are invited to embrace intentional travel by participating in initiatives that support marine conservation and sustainable island living.

At the heart of the island’s conservation ethos is the Marine Conservation Hub. Led by the resident marine biologist, the programme delivers immersive, hands-on experiences that transform curiosity into contribution. Signature programmes include Turtle Quest, Seagrass Awareness, Reef Explorer, Ray Bay and Coral Awareness, each designed to deepen understanding of the Maldives’ fragile ecosystems while actively protecting them.

Sustainability extends onto land at one of the largest greenhouses in the Maldives. Guided by the resort’s head horticulturalist, guests discover how hydroponic farming supports year-round food production in land- scarce environments. This innovative system reduces water consumption while supplying fresh lettuce, herbs and leafy greens to the island’s restaurants, reinforcing the resort’s commitment to responsible island lifestyle.

A culinary journey across cultures

Dining at Le Méridien Maldives is a journey shaped by global flavours and refined technique. Five distinctive restaurants and bars offer a spectrum of culinary experiences, from Japanese precision and teppanyaki theatre at Tabemasu, to Spanish-inspired cuisine at Riviera, relaxed beachfront grills at Velaa Bar + Grill and international favourites at Turquoise.

As the sun begins to set, La Vie, the adults-only bar, celebrates French joie de vivre through curated roséwines and golden hour experiences defined by relaxed elegance, sociable energy and effortless style.

Au Soleil: where the spirit of summer never fades

At Le Méridien Maldives, summer is a state of mind. Through the brand’s signature Au Soleil programme, the resort invites guests to celebrate the spirit of endless summer inspired by the French Riviera. This philosophy comes to life through relaxed poolside moments, live DJ sessions and sunset soirées that blend laid-back glamour with tropical ease.

A chilled glass of rosé, the signature rosé-inspired sorbet, a spontaneous game of backgammon and live music under an amber sky transform each afternoon into a celebration of the good life, framed by the endless blues of the Indian Ocean.

Movement, creativity and effortless wellbeing

For travellers seeking balance, the resort offers a harmonious blend of vitality and restoration. Sunrise and sunset yoga, Pilates, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding energise the day, while the Art Gallery invites guests to explore their creative side through immersive experiences such as Sip & Paint.

The island’s padel court introduces one of the world’s fastest-growing sports to the Maldives, adding a contemporary, social dimension to island living. Beneath the surface, guided snorkelling, diving expeditions, night dives and dolphin cruises reveal the extraordinary biodiversity of the surrounding waters.

Suspended above the lagoon, the overwater Explore Spa completes the wellbeing journey. Glass-panelled floors reveal the coral garden below, creating a serene connection to the ocean. Personalised therapies and couples’ experiences restore balance, calm the mind and reconnect body and spirit to the rhythm of the sea.

Island living designed for families and friends

Le Méridien Maldives seamlessly caters to families and multi-generational travellers. Spacious villas, including two-bedroom beach and overwater havens, provide generous shared living areas alongside private spaces for rest and retreat.

Younger guests are welcomed at Le Méridien Family Kids Hub, where enriching programmes blend creativity, environmental awareness and island discovery. From hands-on crafts and culinary workshops to outdoor adventures and night camping, children experience the Maldives through their own lens of wonder, while parents enjoy uninterrupted moments of reconnection.

An invitation to Savour the Good Life

Rooted in the brand’s philosophy to Savour the Good Life, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa offers more than a holiday, it is a place where culture meets conservation, creativity meets comfort, and each experience feels effortless yet intentional.

Whether travelling as a couple, with family or among friends, every stay brings inspiration and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of slow mornings, golden sunsets and meaningful connection.

For the ultimate island escape, the resort introduces a limited-time offer featuring an all-inclusive meal plan, seaplane transfers for two adults, complimentary stay and dining for children, access to Le Méridien Family Kids Hub and a wealth of curated adventures. The package is available for a minimum seven-night stay, with bookings and travel valid until 30 April 2026.

For more information about Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa, please visit lemeridien-maldives.com or contact the resort at reservations.maldives@lemeridien.com.

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Niva Dhigali Maldives to host wellness week with Gemma Merna this June

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This June, Niva Dhigali Maldives invites guests to experience wellbeing at its own pace. As part of Wellness Week with Gemma Merna, this private island becomes a space for calm, connection and renewal, with five days shaped to restore the body and mind in a setting that feels open, natural and alive.

Gemma Merna is a Master Intuitive Psychology Coach, hypnotherapist, yoga and Pilates teacher, sound healer, and founder of Mind and Wellness. She blends science-backed practices with intuition, movement, and mindfulness to guide guests in reconnecting with themselves, cultivating clarity, confidence, and calm in a deeply restorative way.

For this Maldives retreat, Gemma has curated a five-day programme combining mindful movement, meditation, sound healing, and reflective workshops. Guests can expect a nurturing yet empowering journey, supported by the island’s natural rhythm of light, sea and open space.

Each day begins framed by gentle ocean breeze and sunrise light, with revitalising yoga flows designed to awaken the body and calm the mind. Guided workshops explore simple tools for releasing tension and inviting ease, from Gua-Sha self-care techniques to sessions that encourage inner strength and mental clarity. Movement finds its own pace with Pilates sessions that balance breath and body, while sunset yoga flows and restorative soundbaths invite quiet reflection as day turns to evening.

Surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Raa Atoll, Niva Dhigali offers a setting made for presence and renewal. Days are unhurried, horizons stretch endlessly, and the sea is a quiet companion to every moment. Whether practising on the jetty at sunrise or resting under palms after a soundbath on Haali Beach, each day unfolds with ease, allowing guests to reconnect with their body, mind and surroundings.

Pause. Breathe. Enjoy the simple rhythms of the island, carrying the feeling of this week with you long after departure.

View the full schedule here and booking information here.

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