News
Knox, Beachley and Carroll complete lineup for Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy 2013
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.
Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi recognised for sustainability at Condé Nast Johansens Awards 2027
Coco Bodu Hithi, part of Coco Collection, has received the Best Commitment to Sustainability award at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2027, in the Africa, Asia & Middle East region. This marks the resort’s third consecutive year of recognition, reflecting its continued efforts to care for the environment while creating meaningful experiences for guests.
The latest accolade follows Best Service in 2025 and Best Waterside Hotel in 2026, recognising different aspects of the resort’s hospitality over the years. Each award holds special meaning for the team, whose dedication and genuine care remain at the heart of the Coco Bodu Hithi experience.
Located in North Malé Atoll, just 35 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Coco Bodu Hithi is close enough for convenience yet secluded enough to feel a world away. Surrounded by turquoise waters and tropical greenery, the resort features 100 villas, each with a private pool.

Caring for the island’s natural environment is an important part of everyday life at Coco Bodu Hithi. From coral restoration to eliminating single-use plastics, in-house water production and energy-saving initiatives, the resort continues to take thoughtful steps towards sustainability. Guests are also encouraged to participate through marine conservation experiences, educational talks and island clean-ups, fostering a shared appreciation for the environment.
“We are grateful to receive this recognition, marking our third consecutive year at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards. It reflects our team’s dedication and the meaningful steps we continue to take towards protecting our island. Sustainability is an ongoing journey, and we remain committed to learning, improving and making a positive difference,” said Mohamed Sobe, General Manager of Coco Bodu Hithi.
The Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence recognise outstanding hotels and resorts worldwide, serving as a trusted mark of quality among travellers and travel professionals alike. For Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Collection, this recognition reflects a shared commitment to preserving the Maldives’ natural beauty, heartfelt hospitality and responsible tourism.
For those planning an island escape, Coco Bodu Hithi invites guests to discover its exclusive Double 11 offer or celebrate the festive season with loved ones through the Coco Festive Celebration. To explore these offers and plan a stay, visit www.cococollection.com or contact reservations@cococollection.com.
News
Bandos Maldives lines up festive dining, family activities and entertainment for Christmas, New Year
Bandos Maldives has announced its festive programme for Christmas 2026 and New Year 2027, introducing a Candy Land-themed celebration featuring dining experiences, live entertainment, family activities, cultural performances and island excursions.
Running from 20 December 2026 to 7 January 2027, the programme will bring together seasonal celebrations and the resort’s established recreational activities, with events designed for families, couples and guests of all ages.
The celebrations will begin on 20 December with the lighting of the Christmas tree at Huvan Deck, accompanied by Christmas carols performed by the Bandos Carollers. The opening day will also feature a Christmas cake-mixing ceremony, a Maldivian cooking experience, sunset entertainment by Beatus Duo and a Candy Land Street Food Market at Sea Breeze.
A series of dining experiences will form part of the festive calendar. On 21 December, Umi Yaki will host Tokyo in Maldives, a Japanese-inspired dinner incorporating seasonal elements. Guests can also participate in a festive food and wine pairing experience at Grill Bar on 23 December.

Christmas Eve, on 24 December, will feature a gala dinner at Gallery Restaurant from 7pm to 10pm, with festive decorations and a selection of seasonal dishes. The evening’s entertainment will include Christmas carols, sunset music and a performance by The Notion Band, followed by DJ Katty at Sand Bar.
On Christmas Day, the resort will welcome Santa Claus to Huvan Beach at 10.45am, followed by a programme of family activities. Guests can begin the day with morning yoga and a Christmas breakfast at Gallery before joining the Candy Cane Beach Bash in the afternoon. Sunset entertainment and a karaoke evening will conclude the day’s celebrations.
The culinary programme will continue on 26 December with a Candy Land Beach BBQ at Huvan Beach, featuring grilled specialities in a beachfront setting. Other activities will include pastry-making sessions, vegetable carving demonstrations and mixology experiences, giving guests opportunities to learn from the resort’s culinary and beverage teams.
The programme will culminate in New Year’s Eve celebrations on 31 December, featuring a gala dinner at Gallery from 7pm to 9.30pm. The festivities will continue at Sand Bar with live music, DJ entertainment and a countdown to 2027, accompanied by fireworks.

Guests will also have opportunities to explore the surrounding marine environment during the festive period. Activities include sunset dolphin-watching excursions, sunrise fishing, water sports and a sandbank picnic. The resort will conduct environmental awareness activities under its Eco Adventures programme, introducing guests to its sustainability initiatives and efforts to protect the island’s natural surroundings.
Families travelling with children will have access to an extensive schedule of activities organised through Kokko Club and other areas of the resort. These include gingerbread house decorating, Christmas arts and crafts, costume parades, treasure hunts, beach games, children’s discos and cooking sessions.
Sporting and recreational activities will also feature throughout the celebrations, including tennis challenges, beach volleyball, football matches involving guests and resort staff, water polo, aqua aerobics and morning yoga sessions.
Live entertainment will be a regular feature of the programme, with performances by Beatus Duo, The Notion Band and DJ Katty. Traditional Maldivian music and dance performances are also scheduled, offering guests opportunities to experience local cultural traditions alongside the international festive celebrations.

Following New Year’s Day, the programme will continue with additional dining and entertainment experiences. Umi Yaki will host a Japanese-inspired Sakura Evening on 2 January, while Maldivian cultural performances and family activities will continue during the first week of the year.
On 6 January, Bandos will host an Orthodox Christmas dinner at Huvan Beach, featuring a beachfront barbecue accompanied by live music from Beatus Duo. The festivities will conclude on 7 January with a Candy Land Party Night at Sand Bar.
In his welcome message accompanying the festive programme, Ismail Rasheed highlighted the resort’s focus on creating memories through shared meals, time spent together, exploring the ocean and enjoying island life.
Bandos Maldives is located in North Malé Atoll, approximately 15 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport. Opened on 10 December 1972 as the second tourist resort in the Maldives, Bandos is among the country’s longest-established tourism properties and is known as the Island of Hospitality.

The 18-hectare island features 220 rooms and villas across several accommodation categories, including beachfront rooms, garden villas, beach villas and overwater accommodation. Its facilities include restaurants and bars, Orchid Spa, a diving centre, water sports facilities, a swimming pool, sports and fitness amenities, and Kokko Club for younger guests.
The resort is also known for its house reef and diving experiences, offering access to marine activities within North Malé Atoll. Its combination of family facilities, dining options and proximity to the international airport makes Bandos an established destination for both leisure holidays and short island stays.
Selected festive dining experiences, excursions and activities require advance reservations and are subject to additional charges.
News
Niva Kuramathi Maldives celebrates International Men’s Day with spa and fitness experiences
Throughout November, Niva Kuramathi Maldives turns toward movement and wellbeing. From 1 to 30 November 2026, LIME Wellbeing presents its International Men’s Day Wellness Collection. The collection brings together four restorative treatment packages, complimentary group sessions on 19 November and a three-day retail offer. These are days made for the body to relax, the mind to settle and energy to return.
Restore, 1–30 November
The Executive Recharge is a 60-minute deep tissue massage that reaches the places where stress sits. Tight muscles loosen, and energy returns. The Athlete’s Recovery Package is a 90-minute sports recovery massage. It combines focused stretching with deep muscle work to restore range of motion, so the body remembers how to move with ease. The Gentleman’s Grooming Ritual is a 30-minute express Obsidian facial for the face, neck and torso. Rich in minerals and plant extracts, it deeply cleanses and hydrates. Tension lifts, texture softens, clarity returns. The Total Wellbeing Experience pairs a 60-minute deep tissue massage with a 30-minute Obsidian men’s facial. Muscle recovery flows into skin restoration – body first, then face, then a calm you may not have felt in a while.

Move, 19 November
On International Men’s Day itself, you can join one of two complimentary male group sessions, each designed to build strength, mobility and resilience. The Resistance & Core Group Fitness Class focuses on breath core strength. The Office Yoga Group Session concentrates on gentle stretches to ease stiff shoulders and neck caused by to many long hours spent at a desk.

Obsidian Gentlemen’s Skincare Rituals
At the heart of the collection sits Obsidian, a range designed around the distinct needs of men’s skin. Tailored specifically for men, these treatments offer deep-cleansing, revitalising facials that target the unique needs of men’s skin, leaving you refreshed and perfectly groomed.
Retail, 19–21 November
For three days, all retail products at LIME Wellbeing are 15% off, and select treatments carry exclusive International Men’s Day pricing.

For further information and reservations, please call +960 666 01 50 or email reservations@nivakuramathi.com.
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