News
Kuredhivaru: space-age underwater hotel to open in Maldives
Maldives Promotion House – In the past few years Maldives is called the birthplace of tourism innovation. Number of reason to call so include world-firsts including first all-glass underwater restaurant, first underwater spa, first underwater wine cellar and first underwater night club, all opened in Maldives.
Now its time to welcome world’s first underwater hotel rooms. The space-age resort is now set to be built on the island of Kuredhivaru in Maldives, with the Ministry of Tourism giving the go-ahead to the ambitious plan last week, according to CNN.
With its luminous body seemingly hovering above the water, and five spidery legs plunging deep into the sea, this futuristic building could be the mothership in a sci-fi film.
Introducing the Water Discus Hotel, a luxury multi-million dollar resort featuring 21 moveable rooms found in the heart of spectacular coral reefs.
“There are many people who will never have the courage to dive to these beautiful reefs,” designer, Pawel Podwojewski, told CNN.
“But here you will have the chance to explore an underwater world from the comfort of your bedroom.”
Described as “Star Trek meets the undersea world of Jacques Cousteau,” the remarkable building — valued at up to $50 million — is the brainchild of Polish company Deep Ocean Technology, backed by Swiss investors.
Pawel Podwojewski, hotel designer
The luminous hotel features two large disc-shaped lounges seven-meters above the water, housing a luxury restaurant and spa.
The lounges are connected to a glass tunnel plunging 30-meters below the water, leading to 21 opulent bedrooms.
“A lot of people have said it looks like something from a James Bond film,” said Podwojewski. “I’m a big fan of the movies, so perhaps that was an inspiration.”
“I wanted to keep it as sleek and simple as possible — so the sphere shape is very efficient.”
The cutting-edge hotel may plunge deep beneath the ocean, but its luxury facilities are sky-high, including a helicopter landing pad and rooftop swimming pool.
Guests can sit back and enjoy views of vibrant reefs and tropical fish, all from the comfort of their bed.
Those wanting to explore the spectacular underwater world, can also dive straight in from the hotel’s airlock compartment, including its own decompression chamber.
The more adventurous can even take a ride in a three-passenger deep-sea submarine.
Not only does the hotel look like a spaceship — it actually moves like one, with the largest underwater saucer-shaped room able to slide to the surface in emergencies.
“If you need to replace a window for example, it’s very difficult underwater,” explained Podwojewski. “So we wanted to build a building that can surface any time for maintenance or safety.”
Pawel Podwojewski, hotel designer
“It’s a bit like a balloon underwater — when we let go of the water from the room’s huge tanks, the balloon will surface automatically. It doesn’t need to rely on electricity.”
Developers hope to limit the impact on coral reefs by laying the foundation in as few points as possible.
There are also plans to rebuild coral reefs, by growing the vibrant eco-systems in a special plantation before relocating them around the hotel.
“To preserve the natural environment we have developed couple of kinds of foundations depending on the local conditions,” said Podwojewski. “The key is to touch the sea ground in just few points.”
“Most probably the hotel will land on a flat sand area to reflect the sun rays inside the rooms and the reef will be additionally planted around the hotel rooms to enrich the view.”
The space-age design might seem like something from the future. But it seems this unique underwater hotel will be much closer than you think.
JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La has become the first to introduce a 0.0 cocktail series in the Maldives, bringing the global trend of sophisticated non-alcoholic beverages to the heart of Malé.
Responding to the growing demand for refreshing alternatives to traditional alcoholic drinks, JEN Maldives has developed a range of 0.0 cocktails using Sober Spirits. These drinks combine creativity, innovation, and premium ingredients to reflect global trends while catering to the Maldives’ unique cultural context. Infused with botanicals, fresh ingredients, and zero alcohol, the cocktails provide a flavourful and mindful experience that incorporates authentic spirit flavours.
The 0.0 Cocktail series was launched in collaboration with SIMDI Group, following the successful introduction of Sober Spirits to the Maldivian market. The launch event featured a sundowner party at Azur Restaurant, marking the debut of these innovative beverages.
Following the launch, the 0.0 cocktails are now available at Azur Restaurant, the hotel’s rooftop dining venue with views of the city skyline. These alcohol-free drinks offer a sophisticated alternative for guests seeking a mindful and refreshing experience.
Sun Siyam Olhuveli marked the highly anticipated start of the festive season with a lively Christmas Cake Mixing ceremony held on the picturesque Watersports Beach, set against the stunning backdrop of a Maldivian sunset. The event, which took place on November 15, 2024, continued the resort’s cherished tradition of welcoming the holiday season, drawing inspiration from the classic European Rumtopf practice, where seasonal fruits are soaked in rum to create festive treats.
Under the vibrant hues of the evening sky, guests joined in the time-honoured ritual of mixing dried fruits, spices, and spirits, creating a flavourful base for the Christmas cakes and seasonal delicacies to be served during the festivities. The engaging atmosphere was enhanced by the active participation of the resort’s culinary team and management, who guided attendees through the experience while sharing insights into the tradition’s origins and its role in building excitement for the holidays.
Following the cake mixing ceremony, the resort hosted an exclusive Management Cocktail event to express gratitude to its guests for choosing Sun Siyam Olhuveli as their holiday destination. This intimate gathering featured a curated selection of beverages and canapés, providing a relaxed setting for guests to connect with fellow travellers and members of the resort’s management team. The evening was made even more special with the distribution of prizes and gift vouchers, adding an element of surprise and joy.
Commenting on the occasion, Hassan Didi, Executive Chef at Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives, stated, “With the cake mixing ceremony, we set the tone for a season of joy, togetherness, and celebration. It’s a cherished tradition that brings our guests and team together, creating unforgettable memories as we head into the holiday season.”
This year’s festive celebrations at Sun Siyam Olhuveli will feature an extraordinary theme, AstroFest 2024-2025, running from December 21, 2024, to January 8, 2025. This interstellar-inspired event promises a series of unforgettable activities and experiences, including stargazing sessions on the beach, celestial-themed gala dinners, and stellar performances. Designed to capture the wonder of the cosmos, AstroFest offers guests a unique blend of luxury and enchantment beneath the breathtaking Maldivian night sky.
Sun Siyam Olhuveli looks forward to welcoming guests to this cosmic celebration, setting the stage for a holiday season filled with joy, imagination, and festive cheer.
Celebration
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives unveils spectacular Christmas and New Year offerings
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives invites travellers to escape to a tropical paradise for an unforgettable festive season, offering stays from December 22, 2024, to January 7, 2025. The resort promises a stunning lineup of events, gourmet dining, and activities for all ages.
Nestled on a pristine natural island, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives provides an idyllic setting for families, couples, and groups of friends to celebrate Christmas 2024 and welcome the New Year. Located just a 40-minute scenic speedboat ride from Male’s Velana International Airport, the festive experience begins the moment guests arrive. The resort’s dedicated team ensures a seamless and memorable holiday from start to finish.
“At Kandooma, every detail is designed with our guests’ comfort and joy in mind, from festive celebrations to tranquil island escapes. To enhance the experience, we’ve created an e-brochure that highlights all the exciting activities available during the festive season,” said Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives.
The resort, situated on a peaceful private island, offers a serene escape exclusive to its guests, ensuring privacy and safety for families. Dining options include the vibrant international buffet at Kandooma Café, the elegant Asian Kitchen with its fresh seafood and Asian-inspired dishes, and the Hibachi Table-Top Barbecue experience. Guests can enjoy poolside snacks at Bokkuraa Pool Deck, refreshing drinks at the BAR-aveli Beach Bar, or stunning views at the rooftop Sunset Bar, perfect for watching Maldivian sunsets.
For the festive season, the resort offers exclusive accommodation packages with Half Board, Full Board, or All-Inclusive options. The All-Inclusive package includes premium beverages, afternoon snacks, and free scoops of ice cream during specific hours.
The island features a range of villas to suit different preferences, from Overwater Villas for romantic getaways to 3-Bedroom Beach Pool Villas for families or groups. The two-story Beach Houses offer direct beach access, while Beach Villas feature stunning sea views and outdoor hammocks. Garden Villas, nestled in lush greenery, include open-air showers and private outdoor seating. Festive season rates start at $394++ per night for double occupancy in a Garden Villa, with a minimum four-night stay. Additionally, kids under 13 stay and eat free. Mandatory Gala Dinners during the festive period add an elegant touch to the celebrations.
The culinary team at the resort has crafted holiday meals that blend international flavours with Maldivian specialties. On Christmas Eve, the Gala Dinner at Kandooma Café features a lavish feast and live entertainment, priced at $250++ per person, with complimentary dining for children under 13. Christmas Day celebrations include a bonfire gathering at Surf Corner and a Sand Snowman competition at the Kandoo Kids’ Club, complete with a visit from Santa distributing festive treats.
The resort’s New Year’s Eve celebrations include a Glittering Gala Dinner poolside at Kandooma Café, featuring a sumptuous feast under the stars and live entertainment. Guests can dance into 2025 with live music and DJ performances. The Gala Dinner is priced at $350++ per person, with children under 13 dining for free. Both Gala Dinners follow an “All White” theme, encouraging guests to dress in white for a magical evening.
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is a popular destination for Russian guests celebrating Orthodox holidays. On January 7, the resort will host a special Russian Orthodox Christmas celebration, featuring a vibrant beach party with a live DJ, music, dancing, and oceanfront festivities.
Throughout the festive season, the resort offers a full schedule of activities for all ages. Children can enjoy the Kandoo Kids’ Club, complete with a water playground, indoor craft zones, and island adventures. Parents can relax knowing their children are engaged and entertained while they enjoy the festive atmosphere of the island.
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