News
Starwood Hotels bans shark fin in all hotels
Maldives.net.mv – As part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. today announced that, beginning July 2014, it will no longer procure shark fin in any of its nearly 1,200 hotels or 1,300 restaurants around the world. The company has committed to completely eliminating the consumption of shark fin, without exception, in all restaurants and food and beverage services across its global portfolio by year-end. Starwood is the first global hotel operator to take this strong stand and commit to banning the ingredient across its entire portfolio.
Frits van Paasschen, President and Chief Executive Officer of Starwood, said: “At Starwood, we believe economic growth and the well-being of society are inextricably tied to the health of the environment, including the health of the world’s oceans and its inhabitants. Our worldwide ban on shark fin represents an important, environmentally responsible step to aid in the collective goal of marine preservation. As a company with a collection of hotels that span the globe, Starwood has a unique opportunity to influence travelers and guests worldwide, and to underline the importance of good stewardship of our planet.”
“This is tremendously good news and a beacon of corporate leadership in ocean health,” said Peter Seligmann, CEO, Chairman and co-founder of Conservation International, a global partner of Starwood’s since 2009. “As apex predators, sharks serve a critical role in maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems, which directly support our fisheries, economies, culture and health. Their value to human well-being is so much greater than the misguided worth of their severed fins. Starwood’s company-wide ban on shark fin in each and every one of their properties sends a powerful signal that businesses can be positive change agents in the effort to ensure the responsible use of our planet’s natural capital.”
The world’s shark population is in severe crisis, with an estimated 100 million sharks lost each year to illegal hunting and poaching, primarily for use in traditional luxury dishes throughout Asia, often at weddings. Some shark species have suffered population declines of as much as 90 to 99 percent in recent decades.
Since first removing shark fin from its public menus in 2012, Starwood has worked diligently with hotel owners and partners around the world to institute an outright ban on the dish, and has already reduced overall purchases of shark fin within the company’s portfolio by 79% in the past two years.
In addition to prohibiting the procurement and consumption of shark fin, Starwood has also banned whale and sea turtle, globally, from all of its menus. The exclusion of threatened seafood species from the company’s food and beverage venues is an important component of Starwood’s Sustainable Food & Beverage Policy. Initially published in 2012, the “Eat Local, Think Global” program is a collection of principles that guides sustainable food and beverage sourcing, production, consumption and disposal within and across Starwood properties worldwide.
“As one of the leading global hospitality companies, Starwood is committed to reducing our impact on the environment in every aspect of our business, including in our kitchens, which, in turn, shapes the sustainability practices of our diners and guests,” said Ken Siegel, Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel of Starwood. “We are constantly looking for ways to improve our operations to reflect our commitment to sustainable food and beverage, ocean conservation and sustainable communities, and we believe that steps like banning shark fin or other endangered species bring us closer to our goal.”
Importantly, Starwood’s “Eat Local, Think Global” Sustainable Food & Beverage Policy is only one pillar of Starwood’s overarching corporate responsibility strategy. Further information on the company’s policies and initiatives will be outlined in Starwood’s Global Citizenship Report, expected to be published later this spring.
News
NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort opens final days to book Endless Horizon Maldives Escape offer

With limited time remaining, NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort is encouraging guests to take advantage of its seasonal “Endless Horizon, Maldives Escape” offer before the booking window closes on 31 August 2025. Originally launched in July, the promotion remains available for stays from 1 October 2025 to 31 March 2026, targeting guests seeking value-driven peak season travel.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or a long-overdue family holiday, this offer gives you more time on the island with fewer add-ons to worry about. Reef restaurant brings the ease of daily dining with global flavors and Maldivian touches, while the destination dining experience adds something personal and memorable. The spa credit invites guests to slow down and reconnect in a natural setting, while the transfer discount ensures that longer stays bring even greater value. Every detail is designed to create a seamless and enriching experience from arrival to farewel
Positioned in the secluded Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, NH Collection Maldives Havodda blends pristine beaches, spacious villas, and thoughtful service in a natural island setting. The journey begins with a one-hour domestic flight to Kaadedhdhoo, followed by a short speedboat ride to the resort.
Offer Inclusions
- 30% savings on accommodation
- Daily breakfast and dinner at Reef
- One destination dining experience per stay
- USD 30 spa credit per person
- 50% off roundtrip transfers to and from Malé for stays of six nights or more
“This campaign delivers real value during our most popular travel window,” said Ibrahim Sifaah, Assistant Marketing Manager. “With limited time left, we’re making one final push to ensure our partners and future guests don’t miss out.”
Guests are invited to book directly via the offer page before 31 August here.
News
Milaidhoo Maldives presents ‘Reef Stories’ in celebration of World Photo Day

This World Photo Day, Milaidhoo Maldives opens a compelling new chapter in ocean storytelling with the launch of “Reef Stories”, a digital gallery dedicated to showcasing the breathtaking marine life flourishing around our island sanctuary, through the unique eyes and artistry of our guests.
Tucked within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Milaidhoo is more than just paradise, it’s a living masterpiece painted with dazzling coral reefs, crystal-clear waters and gentle giants like manta rays and sea turtles. Every wave, every current, every splash holds a story waiting to be captured.
“Reef Stories” invites guests to share their unforgettable encounters beneath the waves, each image a work of art that reflects personal perspective, emotion and the intimate connection between photographer and ocean. From shy sea turtles weaving through coral gardens to magical moments swimming alongside majestic manta rays, these photographs weave together a collective tapestry celebrating the beauty and fragility of our underwater world.
At the heart of this initiative is Ocean Stories, Milaidhoo’s aquatic discovery centre led by expert PADI 5-star dive instructors and a resident marine biologist. Guests deepen their connection to the ocean through guided snorkelling, diving, citizen science projects and educational talks, designed to inspire stewardship of this precious ecosystem.
True to Milaidhoo’s commitment to sustainability, we prioritise non-motorised water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding and windsurfing, ensuring guests experience the lagoon’s magic with minimal impact.
As Abdulla Mufeed, Base Leader, puts it: “Reef Stories is more than a collection of images; it’s a celebration of our guests’ personal perspectives and deep connection to the ocean. By sharing these moments, we hope to inspire greater care and conservation as well as to encourage those less familiar with the water to discover the magic beneath the surface.”
This World Photo Day, Milaidhoo invites you to become part of the story by uploading your Milaidhoo Moments in sharing your Reef Story.
News
Sirru Fen Fushi welcomes Anastasia Yatsenko for 3-day Pilates escape

Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort, a distinguished member of the prestigious The Leading Hotels of the World collection, has announced an exclusive 3-day wellness experience, Pilates Escape in Paradise. Led by certified Pilates instructor Anastasia Yatsenko, artistic director of a renowned contemporary dance company, celebrated choreographer, Honored Artist of Russia, and former ballerina of the Bolshoi Theatre, the retreat promises a transformative journey of grace, strength, and mindful movement.
From September 19 to 21, 2025, guests of the resort will embark on a unique journey toward harmony of body and mind. Anastasia Yatsenko brings to each session grace, precision, and mindfulness, shaped by years of performing on the world’s leading stages.
Each day of the retreat features two signature sessions, morning and evening, designed to follow the natural rhythm of the day and aimed at improving posture, flexibility, strength, and inner balance. Participants will discover the capabilities of their bodies through a free movement practice, release tension with specialized stretches that realign the entire body and correct posture, and enjoy sunset sessions focused on breathing and emotional relaxation. These practices are suitable for both experienced participants and beginners.
The Pilates Escape retreat with Anastasia Yatsenko at Sirru Fen Fushi offers a chance to restore energy, achieve inner balance, and spend time in the secluded atmosphere of a paradise island surrounded by breathtaking Maldivian scenery.
To book your stay and participate in The Pilates Escape with Anastasia Yatsenko, please visit www.sirrufenfushi.com or email reservations@sirrufenfushi.com.
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