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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.

Entertainment

New Year’s Eve Gala at JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La to feature live performance by Nasooh

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JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La is preparing to host a vibrant New Year’s Eve Gala Night on 31 December 2025, inviting guests to welcome 2026 with an evening of fine dining, live entertainment, and festive celebration.

The event will be headlined by Mohamed Nasooh, one of the Maldives’ emerging musical talents whose voice has earned national recognition. Nasooh first rose to prominence as a former vocalist of the popular band 2ofus, which represented the Maldives internationally and achieved notable success as the 2nd Runner-Up at the Battle of the Bands International. His growing popularity on TikTok, combined with his expressive vocal performances, has made him a well-loved figure among audiences of all ages.

Guests attending the New Year’s Eve Gala Night can look forward to a memorable live performance from Nasooh, who will bring his distinctive vocal style and stage presence to the celebration as the country ushers in a new year.

Adding to the excitement, the evening will also include a special grand prize, with details set to be announced soon. The announcement has already generated anticipation and is expected to be a highlight of the event.

The Gala Night will offer an elegant dining experience and a festive atmosphere, providing an inviting setting for families, couples, and friends wishing to celebrate the start of 2026 in style. The full programme and menu will be shared in the coming days.

JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La welcomes guests to join this exceptional evening—an occasion filled with music, flavour, and celebration marking the arrival of the new year.

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Awards

Hulhule Island Hotel extends global leadership with 14th consecutive World Travel Award

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Hulhule Island Hotel (HIH) has announced its win as “World’s Leading Airport Resort 2025” at the 32nd Annual World Travel Awards (WTA), held this year in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Tourism leaders and industry pioneers from around the globe gathered for the Grand Final Gala Ceremony to celebrate the finest achievements in global travel, tourism, and hospitality.

This prestigious accolade marks HIH’s 14th consecutive win in this category — a milestone that underscores the hotel’s unwavering commitment to excellence, comfort, and world-class service. In addition to this achievement, HIH has also been honoured as “Indian Ocean’s Leading Airport Hotel” nine times, first earning recognition from the World Travel Awards in 2009.

Speaking on the achievement, Ali Shakir, Group General Manager, said: “It is an honour to receive such a prestigious global award once again. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our team and the trust of our guests. Hulhule Island Hotel continues to stand proudly in all its glory, delivering exceptional experiences year after year. We remain committed to setting the gold standard for airport hospitality in the region and beyond.”

Hulhule Island Hotel extends heartfelt gratitude to its valued guests, partners, and dedicated team members for their continued support in achieving this extraordinary milestone.

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Featured

Blue Mind Theory brought to life at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau

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InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort, located amid the clear waters of Raa Atoll, has introduced an experiential interpretation of the Blue Mind Theory through a new tailored package. The scientifically rooted concept suggests that being near, in, on, or under water can enhance happiness, calmness, and a sense of connection, while also boosting creativity and reducing stress. According to a UK survey by the Ocean Conservation Trust, 94% of participants reported improvements to their wellbeing after interacting with the ocean.

The resort offers direct access to one of the Maldives’ most vibrant marine environments and has curated a selection of wellness, adventure, and relaxation experiences aligned with the restorative principles of the Blue Mind Theory. Situated within the Maldives’ largest natural lagoon, its colourful house reef is home to blacktip reef sharks, turtles, and manta rays. As a key partner of The Manta Trust, InterContinental Maldives provides opportunities for guests to swim with manta rays in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts guided by experts.

Insights from The Manta Trust help illustrate the theory in practice. Meral Hafeez, Project Manager at the organisation, observes that encountering manta rays for the first time often brings a profound emotional response: “Time seems to slow down, fear is replaced with wonder, and what remains is a palpable sense of joy. Much of this stems from the grandeur the sea evokes – you are constantly humbled by its immensity. Feeling a sense of awe increases wellbeing and deepens our connection to the world.”

Drawing on this specialist knowledge, the resort’s Blue Mind package includes overwater meditation, guided seaside yoga, tailored treatments at AVI Spa, snorkelling sessions with The Manta Trust, and a private dinner under the stars. Guided yoga and meditation sessions held at dawn and dusk promote mindfulness while synchronising with the natural rhythm of the ocean. AVI Spa offers treatments inspired by marine elements and water-based techniques to reduce anxiety, restore balance, and support circadian wellbeing.

Guests may also choose a five-course dinner with champagne on a remote sandbank, offering a uniquely tranquil setting surrounded entirely by the Indian Ocean. The resort’s secluded location enhances its suitability for practising the principles of the Blue Mind Theory, supported by ongoing involvement from The Manta Trust.

Residence rates begin at USD 4,745++ per night, inclusive of a variety of tailored experiences.

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