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Knox, Beachley and Carroll complete lineup for Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy 2013

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surfing

Maldives.net.mv – The final three challengers in this year’s Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy have now been announced. Surfing legends Taylor Knox (USA), Layne Beachley (Australai) and Tom Carroll (Australia) will complete the illustrious line-up at the prestigious event, organized by Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa in conjunction with luxury surfing pioneers Tropicsurf.

News of Taylor Knox’s imminent arrival has sent a ripple of excitement around the island. Knox, aka “TK,” is an outright celebrity whose career skyrocketed in 1998 when he won the first K2 Big-Wave Challenge – dropping into a 52-foot mega wave at Todos Santos. Along with a respectable set of battle scars, surfing’s “Mr. Nice Guy” has notched up an impressive 19 years on the ASP World Tour. The new school trailblazer is highly revered not just for his progressive fins-free demos but also for his incredibly deep and powerful turns – his trademark power-surfing style earning him a global fan base equalled only by the likes of teammate Kelly Slater.

Leaving retirement to contend for the Surfing Champions title, Knox reveals he is “honoured” to be competing with his “peers and heroes.” He adds, “No doubt this will be a Four Seasons experience of a lifetime. The Maldives is somewhere I have always wanted to visit.” He will travel to Kuda Huraa with his wife Ann-Marie.

Returning to Kuda Huraa for the second time, Layne Beachley is one of Australia’s most influential athletes. Beachley, who competed in 2011’s Surfing Champions Trophy, turned pro at the tender age of 16, rising to sixth in the world by age 20. Being the only woman in this year’s line-up will scarcely daunt this surfing icon who is well accustomed to breaking down barriers. She is the only woman to win seven ASP world champion titles, a staggering record that arguably defines her as the greatest female surfer in history. Renowned for riding the biggest waves, Beachley continues to inspire generations of sportswomen worldwide with her unparalleled strength and style.

Commenting on her impending revisit to Kuda Huraa with her partner, INXS musician Kirk Pengilly, Beachley revealed their excitement extends way beyond the quality surf breaks: “The Resort, the incredible food and the friendly staff make Kuda Huraa one of our favourite holiday destinations.”

True “surfer’s surfer” Tom Carroll concludes the line-up for this year’s event. Carroll blasted onto the amateur stage in the 70s, winning the New South Wales Pro Juniors in 1977 and 1980. Such coveted victories ensured his rapid ascendancy, with his powerful “goofy-footing” manoeuvres bagging him two historic ASP world champion titles in 1983 and 1984. He later conquered the notorious Banzai Pipeline to seize Pipe Masters’ crowns in 1987, 1990 and 1991. Signing of a mega deal with sponsors Quiksilver in 1989 meant Carroll made history again – becoming the first-ever surfing millionaire. The legendary “storm surfer” lives to chase the largest most demanding waves – a daring quest that has been captured in the epic documentary Storm Surfers 3D, in which he stars.

Carroll admits the Surfing Champions competition will provide “a chance to put my surfing to the test against my peers and, possibly, win some kudos and money.”

Running for the third successive year, Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy 2013 will pit six ex-world champions in a USD 25,000 showdown across three surfboard divisions: single-fin, twin-fin and triple-fin. Knox, Beachley and Carroll join defending champion Damien Hardman (Australia), Tom Curren (USA), and Pedro Henrique (Brazil) to complete an all-star roster in what’s set to be the summer’s hottest action on Maldivian waters.

Running from August 26 to September 2, 2013, the event is hosted aboard Four Seasons Explorer – the Maldives’ ultimate surf vessel – and will once more simultaneously feature Four Seasons Maldives Domestic Champions Trophy: a thrilling display of local talent that last year saw Hussain Areef, the country’s reigning national champion, scoop MVR 25,000.

Guests of Four Seasons Resort Kuda Huraa can catch all the action with day passes aboard Four Seasons Explorer or book the all-inclusive Group Surf & Stay (available from August 26 to September 2 for a minimum booking of five rooms or more for seven nights). In addition to competition day passes, full board and transfers, Group Surf & Stay includes seven days of intense surfing with Tropicsurf’s expert guides, plus the chance to rub shoulders with all the Surfing Champions contestants in Kuda Huraa’s award-winning surrounds.

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Three Marriott Bonvoy resorts in Maldives launch festive early bird offers

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This festive season, trade crowded city streets and familiar celebrations for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday in the Maldives. Surrounded by turquoise lagoons, powder-soft beaches and endless Indian Ocean horizons, travellers can reconnect with family, friends and loved ones through meaningful experiences in one of the world’s most coveted island destinations. From December 20, 2026 to January 10, 2027, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort and Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa invite guests to celebrate the holidays with exclusive Festive Early Bird offers available to book from now until November 15, 2026.

Across the three resorts, guests can enjoy a variety of festive season benefits, from resort credits and wellness experiences to water adventures, family-friendly activities, live entertainment and cultural experiences, with exclusive inclusions tailored to each destination. Families can enjoy added value with complimentary stay and dining for children under 12, while couples and groups of friends can create unforgettable memories through curated island experiences, exceptional dining and spectacular year-end celebrations set against the natural beauty of the Maldives.

A Festive Island Escape Just Moments from Malé

Just 10 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa offers one of the most convenient festive escapes in the Maldives. Set on the lush private island of Furanafushi in North Malé Atoll, the resort combines contemporary comforts with the relaxed charm that has made it a favourite for generations of travellers. Spacious accommodations range from interconnecting guest rooms for families to beachfront and overwater villas suited to couples and friends traveling together.

This festive season, the resort unveils Island Lumière, a celebration inspired by light, warmth and togetherness. From December 1, 2026 through January 7, 2027, guests can experience the elegance of White & Gold Christmas before welcoming the New Year with the radiant glow of Peach Lumière. Days unfold with coral restoration experiences alongside marine biologists, sunrise yoga sessions, sound healing rituals, snorkelling adventures and a festive Christmas Day Beach BBQ by the shore. As the sun sets, the island comes alive with the Full Moon Beach Party, the White & Gold Christmas Gala and the New Year’s Eve Peach Lumière Gala beneath the stars. Younger guests can immerse themselves in Santa’s Workshop, festive scavenger hunts, creative art activities and interactive island adventures that spark imagination and connection.

The package includes complimentary shared speedboat transfers, daily breakfast, lunch and dinner at selected restaurants, USD 45 dining credit per adult per night at specialty restaurants, and access to festive activities, making it an ideal choice for families seeking effortless island celebrations close to Malé.

The White Isle: A Celebration of Sunshine, Discovery and Joie de Vivre

Surrounded by a spectacular 360-degree lagoon in Lhaviyani Atoll, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa brings together the glamour of the French Riviera and the natural beauty of the Maldives in a distinctive festive escape. Arriving via a scenic 35-minute seaplane flight from Malé, guests are welcomed by powder-soft beaches, a thriving house reef and a vibrant island atmosphere that encourages exploration, creativity and connection.

Ideal for couples, families and groups of friends, the resort features spacious beach and overwater villas, including the Three-Bedroom Thilamaafushi Villa, perfectly suited for multi-generational gatherings and celebratory getaways. Guests can spend their days exploring one of the Maldives’ premier destinations for year-round turtle encounters, visiting the Marine Conservation Hub, foraging fresh ingredients at The Greenhouse, enjoying a friendly game of padel or discovering the wonders of the night sky through guided stargazing sessions with the resort’s resident astronomer.

Throughout the festive season, La Fête by Le Méridien transforms Thilamaafushi Island into The White Isle, a celebration of luminous whites, joyful gatherings and European-inspired holiday traditions. From festive feasts and family moments to music-filled evenings and celebrations beneath the stars, timeless traditions are reimagined through the lens of island life. Guests are invited to embrace the simple pleasures of the season through culture, cuisine and discovery, while younger travellers can immerse themselves in Gingerbread Wonderland masterclasses and a vibrant calendar of festive activities at The Family Kids Hub.

The package includes a USD 100 daily resort credit, daily breakfast, lunch and dinner across selected restaurants, a curated festive program and more. The result is a vibrant island holiday where every moment is an invitation to celebrate the season with family and friends.

A Restorative Festive Escape in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll

Nestled within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort provides the perfect setting for restorative wellness, natural beauty and quality time with loved ones. Reached via a scenic 35-minute seaplane journey from Malé, the resort is surrounded by crystal-clear waters renowned for vibrant coral reefs, rich marine biodiversity and unforgettable encounters with manta rays and whale sharks.

Designed for travellers seeking both privacy and togetherness, the resort’s spacious beach and overwater pool villas provide a serene sanctuary for couples and families alike. Larger groups and multi-generational travellers can retreat to the expansive Two-Bedroom Heavenly Beach Residence, complete with generous living spaces and a private pool.

From December 22, 2026 to January 6, 2027, a thoughtfully curated festive program brings holiday traditions to life through tropical island experiences. Guests can gather for the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, indulge in festive dining experiences and ring in the New Year with an elegant celebration culminating in a spectacular fireworks display over the Indian Ocean. Beyond the festivities, visitors can reconnect through wellness experiences at Heavenly Spa by Westin, marine adventures and moments of relaxation in one of the Maldives’ most pristine settings.

The package highlights include daily breakfast and dinner, a USD 100 dining credit per stay, a dolphin cruise for two adults and two children, one-hour ocean kayaking and a complimentary floating breakfast when booking selected villa categories.

To discover more about Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of resorts in the Maldives, visit marriott.com/maldives or click here to start planning your festive escape now.

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THE OZEN COLLECTION to host sixth Bodegas Viñátigo wine master class

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For wine lovers and curious travellers alike, there are few experiences as captivating as discovering a wine with a story. And few stories are as compelling as that of Bodegas Viñátigo a winery born from the volcanic soils of Tenerife, where winemakers have spent over thirty years bringing nearly forgotten grape varieties back to life.

This November, that story arrives once again in the Maldives, as THE OZEN COLLECTION hosts the sixth annual Bodegas Viñátigo Wine Master Class, a rare and immersive journey through the flavours, traditions, and artistry of the Canary Islands.

The journey begins at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO from 23rd to 25th November with The Submerged Cellar Soirée at M6m, the iconic underwater restaurant six metres beneath the lagoon, with the experimental underwater aged wines as welcome drink and a curated menu celebrating land and sea is thoughtfully paired with the expressive wines of Tenerife. The exploration continues across the resort’s signature dining venues, each offering a distinct perspective on the Bodegas Viñátigo collection. At Sea, Salt & Soy, the bold flavours of Pan-Asian cuisine meet the nuanced elegance of Canarian wines at TRADITION PEKING, creating a symphony of taste and texture. The experience culminates with Brunch with Shakespeare, a refined and poetic conclusion to the Maadhoo chapter, where wine, food, and storytelling converge beneath the Maldivian sun.

“Our wines from Tenerife’s volcanic soil to the pristine shores of the Maldives has been an extraordinary experience,” shares Juan Jesús Méndez. “Our collaboration with THE OZEN COLLECTION has allowed us to share these remarkable wines with a global audience. The continued enthusiasm from our guests encourages us to create even more expressions of our wines.”

The vinous voyage continues at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI from 27th to 29th November, where curated dinners and tastings explore the artistry of the wines through innovative culinary collaborations. The journey begins with The Sand Cellar Soirée at ORIGINꓱ, a contemporary dining experience that pairs the depth of volcanic wines with modern gastronomic artistry. A Pan-Asian dinner at Sand, Smoke & Soy brings together two distinctive culinary traditions in a creative dialogue, exploring the harmony between bold island flavours and the heritage of the Canary Islands. The experience culminates with Sunset with Shakespeare, an intimate beachside wine pairing offering guests the rare opportunity to engage directly with the Bodegas Viñátigo wine makers, connect with the passion and heritage behind each vintage, and toast to an unforgettable journey.

“Canary wine is a story of land, tradition, and connection. My journey with Bodegas Viñátigo has taken me to the annual harvest in Tenerife recently, where I witnessed the care and precision that shape every vintage. That experience brought a new level of detail and understanding to our collaboration, reinforcing our commitment to bringing guests not just a wine, but a sense of place. This partnership has enriched our offering and deepened our dedication to authentic, terroir-driven experiences,” said Rohit Salunke, Assistant Director of Wines at Atmosphere Core, said about his experience with the wine makers.

Since 2021, THE OZEN COLLECTION and Bodegas Viñátigo have shared a commitment to authenticity, craftsmanship, and the art of winemaking. Each year, this exclusive collaboration brings the rare volcanic wines of Tenerife to the shores of the Maldives, offering guests an intimate glimpse into the heritage and passion behind every vintage. Over the years, the programme has evolved into a signature event on the Maldivian luxury calendar, a celebration of terroir, tradition, and the enduring bond between two island cultures.

As part of the resort’s all-encompassing RESERVE™ Plan and INDULGENCE™ Plan, this once-a-year experience invites guests to indulge in an extraordinary celebration of wine, cuisine, and island beauty. With limited spaces and a programme designed to enchant both connoisseurs and newcomers alike, we encourage you to reserve your place and raise a glass to the artistry of land, sea, and timeless craft.

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The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort to mark World Wellness Weekend with three-day celebration

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The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort will commemorate World Wellness Weekend 2026 with an immersive three-day celebration inspired by the restorative power of nature. Taking place from September 18 to 20, 2026, the thoughtfully curated program invites guests to embrace mindful living, holistic wellbeing, and meaningful connection through experiences designed to foster balance, vitality, and renewal in an extraordinary island setting.

Rooted in the St. Regis tradition of crafting exceptional experiences, the weekend brings together movement, mindfulness, self-care, and wellness education against the breathtaking backdrop of the Maldives. The three-day program includes yoga and meditation, Pilates, strength and fitness training, Anti-Gravity Yoga, aquatic fitness experiences, skincare workshops, and guided self-care sessions. These experiences encourage guests to reconnect with themselves, cultivate inner balance, and embrace a more mindful way of living.

Nestled between lush tropical rainforest and pristine white-sand beaches on a private island in Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort offers a serene sanctuary where luxury and wellbeing exist in harmony. From sunrise rituals overlooking the Indian Ocean to transformative experiences at the award-winning Iridium Spa, every element of the weekend is thoughtfully designed to inspire presence, deepen one’s connection with nature, and nurture a lasting sense of wellbeing.

Day One | Friday, September 18, 2026

The weekend begins with Morning Yoga at the Yoga Sala, where guests are invited to greet the day with sun salutations that energise the body and calm the mind. A dynamic blend of aerobics and boxing follows, designed to strengthen, challenge, and invigorate.

Later, guests can explore the principles of holistic wellbeing during Balancing Your Doshas, an interactive Ayurvedic workshop focused on achieving greater harmony between mind, body, and environment. The afternoon continues with an energising Beach Boot Camp, before transitioning into a restorative Chakra Yoga session, encouraging self-expression, authenticity, and personal growth.

Day Two | Saturday, September 19, 2026

The second day begins with Sunrise Yoga and Meditation, followed by Mat Pilates, session designed to enhance core strength, balance, and flexibility.

A highlight of the day, Anti-Gravity Yoga combines traditional yoga principles with suspended movement, creating a unique experience that is both engaging and restorative. At Iridium Spa, guests may participate in a Skin Analysis Workshop, featuring personalised consultations and expert recommendations tailored to individual skincare and wellness goals.

The afternoon features Strength Training, before concluding with a guided Chakra Meditation centred on Ajna, the third-eye chakra, encouraging clarity, intuition, and reflection.

Day Three | Sunday, September 20, 2026

The final day starts with a tranquil Morning Yoga session, followed by an invigorating HIIT Workout, challenging participants with high-intensity movement designed to elevate fitness, endurance, and vitality.

Guests are then welcomed to the iconic overwater Iridium Spa for an interactive BR Skin Instant® Workshop, where tailored insights and expert advice highlight the relationship between wellbeing and radiant, healthy skin.

The wellness journey continues with Pool Bike Fitness, a low-impact aquatic workout that combines resistance and cardiovascular training, followed by The Art of Massage Workshop, where guests can learn simple therapeutic techniques to support relaxation and recovery.

The weekend concludes with a Modified HYROX Workout on the beach, a dynamic functional fitness challenge that blends strength, stamina, and cardio. A final Chakra Yoga session dedicated to Sahasrara, the crown chakra, brings the celebration to a meaningful close.

A Journey to Renewal

Nestled between lush tropical rainforest and pristine white-sand beaches on a private island in Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort provides an extraordinary setting for renewal and discovery. From sunrise rituals overlooking the Indian Ocean to transformative experiences at the award-winning Iridium Spa, every element of the World Wellness Weekend is thoughtfully designed to inspire presence, deepen one’s connection with nature, and nurture a lasting sense of wellbeing.

For more information on World Wellness Weekend 2026 and the resort’s wellness offerings, visit stregismaldives.com.

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