Relaxation
Are you getting enough sun protection?

While soaking up a little Vitamin D might have its benefits, the harsh rays of the hot sun in Maldives can pose a danger. From premature ageing to sun spots, through to the serious danger of skin-cancer, protecting your skin when you’re out and about is key. But while we all know daily SPF use is sensible, what do we really know about sun protection?
Protect Yourself
When you’re choosing a sunscreen, read the labels carefully and be sure to find a product which promises broad spectrum protection. While we’re well trained to seek out a protectant with a high SPF, many of us fail to realise that rating applies only to UVB protection, while a broad specrtum sunscreen will protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA penetrates into the lower dermis of the skin, causes most of the ageing affects seen from sun damage and is a consistent threat throughout the year, while UVB levels differ between summer and winter months, so protecting your skin from both is imperative. Always apply sun cream 30 minutes prior to exposure to ensure absorption, and remember to reapply regularly, as swimming or outdoor exercise will reduce the effectiveness of your protection.
In addition to your product regime, antioxidants play a significant role in the protection and repair of the skin, helping to reverse some of the damage caused by sunlight, including discoloration, fine lines and wrinkles. Unlike sunscreens and SPF moisturisers, antioxidants protect the skin from the inside, guarding your cells from external aggressors including the sun. Natural antioxidants, which carry the added benefit of slowing down the skin ageing process, can be found in raspberries, blueberries, red kidney beans, soy and green tea, so go gourmet and protect yourself from the inside out.
Feed Your Skin
Vitamins A, C and E are also crucial in boosting the natural self protection of the skin and can be found in foods such as sweet potato, dark leafy greens, paprika, almonds and oranges. Combining these enriched foods with a good SPF sunscreen takes you one step closer to helping your skin rejuvenate, protecting against carcinogens and long term damage.
Care and Repair
Caring for your skin after sun exposure is as important as protecting it beforehand, not least as overexposure causes water to evaporate from the skin, leaving it dry and dehydrated. With the use of emollients, you can boost your skin’s ability to retain its natural moisture, replacing lost fluids to ensure the complexion regains a soft and supple appearance. A few simple steps can go a long way to preventing long lasting skin damage, so take care to consume more water and to moisturise after sun exposure. Use a deeply nourishing and hydrating product to quench your skin after you’ve been out in our harsh climate to help target dryness and its ageing effects.
Calm The Burn
When skin burns, the fine layers at the top of the dermis are damaged, causing discomfort. Aloe vera gels are great for cooling and soothing hot patches – for an even better effect, refrigerate before application – while raw, organic plant-based oils, such as rosehip, coconut and argan, contain nourishing vitamins, minerals and nutrients to help relieve the feeling of dry tight skin. Apply just before you go to sleep so they can penetrate the skin and nourish it overnight.
Most of the resorts in Maldives are equipped with world-class spas. They provide tailored sun care and tanning programmes for guests.
This unique service which will identify each guest’s individual skin sun potential and advise them on the best skin care to maximise their full tanning potential. These programmes which allow all skin types to get the benefits of the sun safely. They also allow users to get the desired results under any kind of sunlight intensity.
Featured
Varu Spa’s new holistic wellness experiences at Kandolhu Maldives

Kandolhu Maldives has introduced a new menu at Varu Spa, offering a range of treatments designed to harmonise the mind, body, and soul. Inspired by the essence of ‘Varu,’ meaning energy in the local Dhivehi language, the revitalised offerings include signature experiences aimed at restoring balance and enhancing overall well-being.
One of the standout treatments is the Varu Origins treatment, a 120-minute immersive ritual that features a full-body exfoliation, a personalised massage, and a rejuvenating facial to promote skin radiance. Additionally, the Varu Tradition provides a holistic experience by combining aromatherapy, spinal pressure techniques, and reflexology to relieve stress and encourage relaxation. For those seeking a detoxifying treatment, the Varu Essential offers an invigorating therapy incorporating grapefruit, rosemary, and juniper essential oils for complete renewal.
Alongside these treatments, Varu Spa has introduced curated wellness journeys tailored to different relaxation needs. The Three-Day Reset focuses on gentle rejuvenation through a rose body scrub and specialised massages. The Five-Day Tranquil package includes the Maldivian Fusion Massage and Glow Facial for an indulgent experience. For couples, the Varu Haven package presents a shared retreat featuring sea salt soaks, full-body massages, and lymphatic drainage facials in a tranquil setting.
With these thoughtfully crafted experiences, Varu Spa at Kandolhu Maldives provides an ideal escape for guests to unwind, refresh, and reconnect with their inner energy.
Featured
Westin Hotels elevate sleep experiences with holistic wellness initiatives

In the lead-up to the global commemoration of World Sleep Day on March 14 and building on the ‘Busy Resting’ campaign launched in January 2025, Westin Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 hotel brands, is advocating for restful sleep. Hotels and resorts across the Asia Pacific region (excluding China) are inviting guests to experience revitalising and restorative relaxation, emphasising rest as an essential part of life rather than a luxury.
Modern society often equates being busy with success, often at the expense of personal well-being. However, a shift is occurring as individuals begin to reclaim their right to rest. With a strong focus on holistic well-being and a brand strategy centered on curating optimal sleep experiences, Westin has consistently positioned itself as an innovator in the hospitality industry. Since introducing the Heavenly Bed® in 1999, which disrupted industry norms and set a new standard for hotel sleep experiences, the brand has remained a leader in the wellness space.
For over two decades, Westin has continually evolved its offerings to provide guests with a personalised approach to sleep and comfort. The Sleep Well program, which features amenities such as the Sleep Well Menu and Sleep Well Lavender Balm, further highlights the brand’s commitment to promoting restorative sleep as a crucial component of overall well-being. Westin continues to champion wellness through its Six Pillars of Well-Being: Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well.
John Toomey, Chief Commercial Officer for Asia Pacific (excluding China), emphasised Westin’s leadership in hospitality well-being, stating, “Westin has been among hospitality’s global leaders in well-being, consistently empowering guests to enhance their routines while on the road through its six pillars, from Eat Well to Sleep Well. World Sleep Day serves as a great reminder of the importance of restorative experiences for travellers. With the increasing interest in sleep tourism and wellness travel, it is the perfect time to reaffirm our commitment to guests’ health by providing the tools and experiences necessary for a good night’s sleep.”
Westin’s Sleep Well program is central to its dedication to holistic well-being, offering guests a revitalising and restful sleep experience. The program underscores the significance of quality sleep as the foundation for mental and physical health. The Heavenly® Bed provides unparalleled comfort for travellers seeking restorative sleep. The Sleep Well Menu, available through in-room dining, features sleep-enhancing superfoods rich in nutrients that promote relaxation. Additionally, guests can unwind with the Sleep Well Lavender Balm, infused with calming essential oils to alleviate tension and create a peaceful sleep environment. Westin’s wellness-focused amenities continue to set a high standard in the hospitality industry.
The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort offers guests a specialised Sleep Infusion Turndown service. This curated in-room tea experience includes sleep-inducing herbal teas, such as chamomile and lavender, to promote relaxation. Guests can also participate in daily meditation and relaxation sessions, including Yoga Nidra and Gyan Mudra, to enhance their journey toward quality sleep. Yoga Nidra, also known as yogic sleep, is a guided meditation technique that facilitates deep relaxation, while Gyan Mudra, a sacred hand gesture, helps direct energy and maintain balance.
Parents travelling with children can benefit from ‘The Westin Maldives Kids Sleep Manual,’ developed in collaboration with Savvy Sleep. This guide provides families with sleep-recommended activities, including beachfront bedtime stories, stargazing, and dream journaling, to encourage restful and rejuvenating sleep for young travelers.
On March 14, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort will host a sunset reception, inviting guests to relax amid stunning ocean views. The event will feature an exclusive selection of Sleep Well-inspired canapés and beverages, creating a serene atmosphere to celebrate the importance of restful sleep.
Nestled in the picturesque Baa Atoll, a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort serves as an oasis of tranquility. Through an immersive approach to well-being, the resort continues to advocate for the restorative power of sleep, ensuring that every guest departs feeling refreshed and inspired.
Meditation
Lily Beach Resort introduces ‘Harmonic Bliss Week’: Maldives’ first floating sound bath

Lily Beach Resort & Spa is set to redefine wellness in the Maldives with the launch of Harmonic Bliss Week, an exclusive retreat featuring transformative Floating Sound Bath Experiences led by internationally renowned sound therapist Ali Young.
From the 22nd to the 28th of November 2025, Ali Young will be on the island guiding guests through the holistic week. As the founder of Chiang Mai Holistic in Thailand, Ali has gained training from master healers in India, Nepal, and Australia. Ali brings years of expertise in helping individuals deal with stress, anxiety, trauma, and addiction through the power of sound and is now and a globally recognised expert in crystal and Tibetan bowl healing. His engaging approach fosters emotional release and deep connection, guiding guests toward profound inner peace.
Renowned for its award-winning hospitality and holistic wellness offerings, Lily Beach provides the perfect sanctuary for this unique experience. Guests can immerse themselves in the soothing vibrations of the singing bowls at the outdoor pool of Vibes Bar, a serene family-friendly space, or the infinity pool Les Turquoise D’Aqua, an intimate fine dining setting ideal for couples.
Guests can expect a private, tranquil, and serene experience throughout each session. Whether floating effortlessly in a sunrise meditation or unwinding during an enchanting evening sound bath, guests will find harmony in the resort’s carefully curated spaces.
Throughout the Harmonic Bliss Week, participants will embark on an immersive wellness journey, kicking off with an introductory sunrise session followed by evening wind-down sessions. Ali will also provide personalised, private sessions to participants upon prior booking, keeping in mind the time sensitivity. During the 7-day event, Ali will hold a special workshop to include children who may be interested in participating and learning more about the process. The event will conclude with a gratitude meditation and an intimate closing ceremony session by the pool with refreshments.
Furthermore, guests will also have the opportunity to indulge in blissful treatments at the overwater Tamara Spa, where expert therapists provide deeply restorative and therapeutic massages. Complementing the experience is Lily Beach’s exquisite dining selection, offering wholesome, nourishing cuisine to enhance overall well-being. Evenings will come alive with curated entertainment, blending relaxation with the resort’s vibrant atmosphere.
Perfectly positioned near the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA)—one of the Maldives’ premier whale shark hotspots – Lily Beach provides the ideal location for guests to reconnect with nature while experiencing tranquillity like never before.
Whether seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, or a deeper sense of well-being, this seven-day retreat blends ancient sound healing techniques with ultimate tranquillity and serenity, offering guests an unparalleled journey of relaxation and renewal. This Wellness Week with Ali Young at Lily Beach in November promises an immersive experience in paradise under the professional guidance of a seasoned practitioner.
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