News
Paradise Island Resort prepares to welcome Oscars of the travel industry to the Maldives
Maldives Promotion House – Paradise Island Resort, Maldives is preparing to host the World Travel Awards Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony on May 12th.
A world “first” for the Maldives as it prepares to host the World Travel Awards Indian Ocean Ceremony. This prestigious event acclaimed globally as a premier networking platform in the travel and hospitality industry will hold an elegant and glamorous island-style event, synonymous with the idyllic Maldives. The Gala ceremony marks a double celebratory year of 40 years of Tourism for the Maldives, and World Travel Awards 20th Anniversary.
Paradise Island Resort & Spa part of the Villa Group, will host an array of personalities and leaders from the region and has the full support of the most important and influential tourism bodies in the Region. Hosting the ceremony will be internationally acclaimed TV and Film personality Shereen Mitwalli who has hosted world class events around the world and brings her experience, warmth and glamour to the evening.
Shereen Mitwalli will host the 2013 World Travel Awards 2013 Indian Ocean Ceremony.
“Lets go Maldives” a leading consortium of experienced travel professionals who passionately promote the marketing of this exquisite region fully support the global event. Mohamed Riyaz, Managing Director “Lets go Maldives says”we are honoured to be part of World Travel Awards; an event that truly celebrates the spirit of travel and tourism worldwide.”
Mohamed Adam, Acting Managing Director, Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation said “We are extremely privileged and proud to be hosting the most prestigious event of the travel industry, the World Travel Awards (Indian Ocean) in the Maldives this year. Being the celebratory year of the 40th year of tourism in the Maldives, it brings us extra pleasure in extending a warm welcome to the delegates of World Travel Awards to the sunny side of life.”
Over 58 Awards will be presented and categories including Indian Ocean’s Leading Beach destination, Indian Ocean’s Leading Airline, Indian Ocean’s Leading Family Resort, Indian Ocean’s Leading Cruise Line, Indian Ocean’s Leading Hotel Brand and the others will be hoping for top Awards on May 12th.
News
Season of renewal: Noku Maldives unveils ‘Tides of Transformation’ celebrations
Noku Maldives, Vignette Collection, has unveiled its Festive Season 2025/2026 celebrations under the evocative theme “Tides of Transformation.” Drawing inspiration from the natural rhythms of the island—the shifting tides, the coloured skies, and the soft glow of bioluminescence—the programme invites guests to embrace renewal, reflection, and meaningful celebration.
The theme is rooted in moments when the world appears to pause just long enough for change to unfold. At Noku Maldives, transformation is not rushed; it emerges gently, in harmony with nature. Beneath star-filled skies and glowing tidal waters, renewal takes shape through quiet awakenings, moments of stillness, and the subtle power of beginning anew.
This festive season, the resort celebrates not only the joy of togetherness but also the beauty of becoming. From the bioluminescent shimmer illuminating the lagoon at night to the delicate unfurling of petals at dawn, each element reflects the island’s reminder to return to one’s essence. As the tides shift and the stars realign, guests are invited to welcome the coming year with intention and clarity.
Guests will experience a carefully curated programme centred on renewal, reconnection, and elevated island living:\
- Celestial Celebrations: Gala evenings inspired by celestial paths and cosmic rhythms, where music, artistry, and light converge beneath the open sky.
- Ocean-Led Rituals: Signature experiences influenced by the ebb and flow of the tides, including moonlit beach walks, sunset ceremonies, and coastal gatherings.
- Wellness Journeys: Mindful practices designed to restore and realign, from sunrise yoga and transformative spa treatments to meditative island rituals.
- Elevated Festive Dining: Seasonal menus crafted with fresh island ingredients, bringing together flavours of the land and sea.
- Family Moments & Island Adventures: A series of meaningful activities for families, including creative workshops, stargazing evenings, and island traditions that bring loved ones closer.
Each component has been designed to echo the central theme, encouraging guests to slow down, reconnect with themselves, and enter the new year with renewed purpose.
“Tides of Transformation” serves not only as a festive concept but also as an invitation to reflect, embrace gentle change, and step into the year ahead with renewed clarity. Whether through quiet moments by the lagoon, shared celebrations under the stars, or the simple joy of island life, guests will discover a season shaped by stillness, beauty, and the transformative rhythm of the tide.
Noku Maldives welcomes travellers from around the world to celebrate a festive season inspired by the serenity and natural wonder of its island setting.
For more information and reservations, guests may visit the resort’s website or contact noku.reservations@ihg.com.
Entertainment
Holiday Inn Kandooma confirms Missy Higgins’ 2026 Maldives residency
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, together with event organisers Music in Paradise, have announced the return of one of Australia’s most celebrated singer-songwriters, Missy Higgins, for a series of intimate performances at the resort’s private island from 13–20 June 2026.
Following her inaugural 2025 Maldives concerts, which drew rave reviews from fans and media alike, Missy was quick to declare she had “unfinished business” in the tropics, promising to return for more music, surfing, diving, and island relaxation.
The week-long event blends all the magic of a Maldivian getaway with three exclusive sunset concerts, performed by Missy Higgins against the backdrop of swaying palms and turquoise waters. Guests will enjoy beachfront and rooftop Sunset Bar shows, plus unique meet-and-greet opportunities with the artist.
With 26 ARIA Award nominations and five Australian No. 1 singles to her name, Missy’s return to Kandooma promises to be one of the most sought-after events of 2026. Attendance is capped at just 200 guests, ensuring an intimate and unforgettable experience.
“There’s nothing better than great live music and a beach. Add in Missy Higgins and the Maldives, and you’ve got the ultimate getaway. Bring your mates, bring your family — this is one trip you’ll be talking about for years,” said Mark Eletr, General Manager, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives.
“Imagine starting your day diving or snorkelling in the Maldives, then ending it with Missy Higgins singing just metres from the water’s edge. That’s what awaits at Kandooma in 2026, and after my experience at her last performance here, I can promise it’s an experience you’ll carry with you forever.”
The Gold Experience Package is selling fast at A$4,490 per person twin share including:
- Entry to three exclusive evening events
- Three intimate performances by Missy Higgins
- Meet & greet session with Missy Higgins
- Professional photo opportunity with the artist
- Music in Paradise welcome bag, commemorative poster & t-shirt
- Seven nights in a Beach View Villa (13–20 June 2026)
- Daily buffet breakfast at Kandooma Café
- Return shared speedboat transfers from Malé
- Welcome drink & cold towel on arrival
- Tea, coffee & bottled water in-villa, replenished daily
- Complimentary snorkel trip & snorkelling gear
- Two scuba dives per day for two (T&Cs apply, licensed divers only)
- Music in Paradise Traveller Care Guarantee
Information about Premium packages, including the VIP Experience (Beach House) and Platinum Experience can be found here. The Ultimate Experience (Overwater Villa) and Family VIP Experience are already sold out.
Set in the South Malé Atoll, just 40-45 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is a tropical paradise of white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lush coconut palms.
Guests can choose from Garden and Beach Villas, two-storey Beach Houses, and the signature Overwater Villas. Families are well catered for with spacious 2- and 3-bedroom villas and the vibrant Kandoo Kids’ Club. Six dining outlets showcase international flavours, while Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala offers a tranquil escape for body and mind.
News
Kandolhu Maldives introduces revamped Deluxe Ocean Pool Villas
Kandolhu Maldives has announced the completion of its latest refurbishment, which includes the transformation of its Deluxe Ocean Pool Villas into luxurious retreats of comfort and style. Designed to maximise privacy and relaxation, these newly upgraded villas now feature a fresh, contemporary design, complete with private pools and stunning panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
Spanning 120 square metres, the redesigned Deluxe Ocean Pool Villas offer a spacious bedroom, a bright and airy bathroom with a deep oval bathtub overlooking the ocean, and a private outdoor deck. The deck includes sun loungers, a sun umbrella, and a new 23-square-metre private pool. For added indulgence, a hammock suspended over the water invites guests to relax while soaking up the tranquil ocean views.

The villas retain the signature minimalist aesthetic of Kandolhu, originally envisioned by renowned Maldivian architect Mohamed ‘Sappe’ Shafeeq. Seamlessly blending with the island’s natural beauty, the design incorporates high ceilings, open spaces, rich textures, and a calming palette that exude understated elegance. Modern amenities, such as Bluetooth speaker, espresso machine, and in-villa wine fridge, add a touch of convenience and luxury.

The refurbishment further cements Kandolhu Maldives’ reputation for offering an exceptional combination of zen-like design, privacy, and natural beauty. These enhancements aim to provide guests with an elevated experience, ensuring their stay is as relaxing and memorable as possible.
For more information or to book, please visit www.kandolhu.com.
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