News
Chaaya Lagoon Hakuraa Huraa in Maldives earns Green Globe sustainable certification

Maldives.net.mv – The Maldives are among the few destinations with unspoiled ecological hot spots – rich in biodiversity. In line with the John Keells corporate philosophy, various energy initiatives are carried out at the Chaaya Lagoon Hakuraa Huraa.
For years, the Chaaya Lagoon Hakuuraa Huraa in the Maldives has demonstrated a strong commitment to the seamless integration of sustainability throughout its value chain, implementing policies and sound environmental practices that allow an eco-friendly and ethical operation on all levels. Those efforts recently earned Green Globe certification.
“Our entire team is enthusiastically involved in environmental protection, and we strive to live the pledge ‘I will be green,’” said Mr. Nalinda Liyanage, General Manager at the Chaaya Lagoon Hakuura Huraa. “We encourage our partners, guests, staff, and local communities to join our actions, which include environmentally-friendly waste disposal, composting programs, reuse and recycle programs. It is our goal to continuously identify all potential impacts on the environment, and manage such impacts whilst using our resources in a sustainable and efficient manner.”
The Chaaya Lagoon Hakuraa Huraa resort initiated a project called “Walk Way Lights Powered by Nature,” with the objective of generating electricity using sea water (wave) and solar power, utilizing materials with a zero/low cost, including leftover wood, discarded bulbs, old generator battery, solar panel and power generator made in-house. The use of natural resources to generate electricity has reduced the consumption of diesel, thus minimizing the carbon footprint. Other best practices include the installation of solar panels for hot water heating, the collection of rainwater for use, and the reuse of treated waste water for gardening and flushing purposes. A number of vegetables and herbs used in the kitchen are grown on the resort’s own organic farm.
CSR activities are numerous at the Chaaya Lagoon Hakuraa Huraa, and range from regular tree planting campaigns to educating local schoolchildren at Mulee Educational Center on the importance of protecting the environment. Beach and reef cleaning was organized on World Tourism Day and on World Oceans Day, with the participation of guests and staff members. Island cleaning is done on a daily basis in the inhabited island of Sitthihura and the Robinson Island that is used by the guests. The resort has also taken serious steps to mitigate the spread of diseases, such as Dengue and HIV Aids. A Dengue Control Campaign and an HIV-Aids Awareness program were conducted with the involvement of the community, guests, and staff.
Surrounded by an azure ocean lagoon replete with the wonders of the underwater world, this is a paradise for diving and snorkeling, windsurfing, sailing, and canoeing. Accommodation at this spectacular beach hideaway includes 70 over water bungalows and 10 beach bungalows. Guests can enjoy outstanding food at the resort’s restaurant, special candle lit dinners are available. Set in an open, natural environment, the resorts’ Chavana Spa makes a heavenly escape.
Entertainment
The Presets to ignite nights in exclusive Kandooma Maldives showcase in April 2026

Imagine your favourite music festival—but swap muddy fields for white sands, palm trees, and crystal-clear waters. In April 2026, acclaimed electronic duo The Presets will trade stadiums and festival crowds for an exclusive beachfront series of shows at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, offering fans an intimate, once-in-a-lifetime island escape curated by Music in Paradise.
From Coachella to Splendour in the Grass, The Presets—Julian Hamilton and Kim Moyes—have made their mark on the global stage. But this time, they’re doing things differently. From 11–18 April 2026, fans will experience a week of sun-drenched luxury capped off by three electrifying live performances, including a sunset DJ set on the beach and an exclusive rooftop party at the resort’s Sunset Bar.
“We’re beyond excited to host The Presets at Kandooma,” said Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. “Their energy, talent, and incredible live shows are a perfect match for our vibrant island setting. Guests can expect something truly unforgettable.”
With a career spanning two decades, The Presets are electronic music royalty in Australia. Their breakout 2008 album Apocalypso went triple platinum and produced the festival anthem “My People.” With multiple ARIA Awards, APRA Songwriter of the Year titles, and collaborations like the RAKA EP with Golden Features under their belt, the duo continues to shape the sound of electronic music worldwide.
Their 2018 album HI VIZ soared to the top of iTunes within hours of release and included hits like “Do What You Want” and “Martini,” both nominated for major Australian music prizes.
Fans can now secure the Early Bird Gold Experience Package for A$3,790 per person (twin share) for seven nights in a Beach Villa—saving over $1,000. This VIP experience includes:
- Entry to 3 Nightly Exclusive Events
- 3 Intimate Performances
- Meet & Greet with artists
- Professional Photo with artists
- Music in Paradise Welcome Bag
- Music in Paradise Event Poster
- Event commemorative t-shirt
- Return shared Speedboat airport transfers
- Welcome drink and cold towel on arrival
- Delicious buffet breakfast daily at Kandooma Café
- Tea, coffee & bottled water in-villa, and replenished daily
- Complimentary snorkel trip & use of snorkelling gear
- Music in Paradise Traveller Care Guarantee
Additional packages offering different villa types are also available exclusively from Music in Paradise here. All packages exclude airfares.
News
Embudu Village achieves Travelife Gold certification for sustainability

Embudu Village, one of Maldives’ most cherished island resorts, has been awarded the Travelife Gold Certification, a globally recognised mark of excellence in sustainable tourism. The certification encompasses a resort’s environmental footprint, impact in the community, as well as labour standards, and the protection of biodiversity.
Embudu Village previously held the Travelife Silver Certification. Following a recent evaluation, though, the resort successfully met Travelife’s comprehensive criteria for Gold Certification. This accomplishment reflects Embudu’s ongoing commitment to sustainable tourism practices.
Travelife, a leading international sustainability certification body for hotels and resorts, evaluates properties against a strict checklist. Certification is awarded after an in-depth, on-site audit conducted by an independent auditor. The findings undergo a comprehensive quality assurance review before Travelife confers certification status.
Expressing his gratitude in receiving the certification, Ramsay Perera, General Manager of Kaimoo Resorts, said: “Our team is thrilled to be recognised with the Travelife Gold Certification. This reflects our longstanding commitment to sustainable tourism and protecting the natural beauty of Maldives.”
As one of the Maldives’ pioneering resorts, Embudu continues to lead by example, proving that authentic island hospitality can go hand in hand with sustainable practices. With the Travelife Gold Certification, Embudu Village strengthens its promise to offer guests a meaningful holiday experience in the heart of the Maldives.
Awards
Amilla Maldives’ Javvu Spa recognised in Forbes Travel Guide 2025 Star Awards

Building on Amilla Maldives’ recognition in the Forbes Travel Guide 2025 Star Awards, Javvu Spa is celebrating its own honour in this prestigious global listing.
Nestled within the island’s lush jungle and bordered by the Indian Ocean, Javvu Spa offers a peaceful retreat where modern wellness gently blends with nature’s rhythms. This recognition is a heartfelt acknowledgement of the spa team’s dedication and Amilla’s ongoing focus on personalised, intuitive care for the wellbeing of its guests.
This honour follows Amilla Maldives’ own recognition in the Forbes Travel Guide 2025 Star Awards, positioning the resort as one of a select group of destinations worldwide to be acknowledged for both its resort and spa. The dual recognition reflects a thoughtful commitment to excellence across the guest experience, from island living to holistic wellness.
Javvu Spa’s inclusion in the 2025 Star Awards further strengthens its role as a leading wellness destination in the Maldives, offering guests a serene sanctuary to restore, reconnect and renew.
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