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Torsten Richter becomes Ironman of the Maldives 2014, striving for the community

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Torsten at IronMan MalaysiaMaldives.net.mv – Anantara and Naladhu Maldives Cluster General Manager Torsten Richter has successfully completed the IronMan Malaysia challenge, with a personal best time of 12:47 hrs and raising USD 10,000+ for a Maldivian cause.

“I worked with a personal trainer from the UK, who sent me my training schedule every week and provides online support and dietary recommendations. Some days it’s hard to motivate myself at 10.30pm to sit on a stationary bike and give the training session all my energy, but once I get into it the initial exhaustion of the day filters away,” says Torsten.

Living in paradise and training for a physically demanding IronMan race is no easy combination. 10:30 pm on the idyllic resort islands of Anantara Dhigu, Anantara Veli and Naladhu Maldives and most guests are enjoying their last glass of wine for the day or have already descended into a slumber of dreams. For Cluster General Manager Torsten Richter, it’s the time he enters the gym with an hour on the bicycle ahead of him, and at 5:00am his alarm wakes him for another gym session before his work day begins around 7:15 am.

Ironman challenges comprise a 3.8km swim, followed by a 180km bike ride and a 42.2km marathon run, all in within the cut-off time of 18 hours. Training for an Ironman race on a Maldivian island with no roads, just a 20m lap pool in addition to the ocean to swim and no wide and well paved roads to cycle along isn’t the most obvious choice location. Instead of measured tracks for running, Torsten run on sandy paths under tropical palm trees across the two of the three island resorts he manages.

“I participate in half-marathon races in Male and we organise an island run a couple of times a year at our resorts, just 35 minutes by speedboat from Male. Outside of the gym, Kayaking, swimming and running around the resorts on my day off, as well as  during the week before the guests wake up, keeps me fit and on track. It’s far from the ideal training conditions for the endurance challenge of an Ironman, but I’m not looking to be the first across the finishing line, I just want to complete it within my personal best time.”

Having previously completed Ironman challenges in Zurich in just over 13 hours, and Ironman 70.3 (half distances) in Phuket and Bintan, the Langkawi challenge on September 27th was the second such title Torsten accomplished, but the first in a tropical climate and still managing to beat his personal best time. Along the way, he has raised USD 10,000 to contribute towards new facilities for the Home for People with Special Needs on Guraidoo island.

 “The race itself was a personal goal I wanted to fulfill, but to be able to raise money and really make a difference to people’s lives in the process makes it all the more meaningful. The Home for People with Special Needs was brought to my attention originally through one of our associates, who was previously a patient there for a short while. After visiting the home I was inspired to do more to help and this was an obvious choice.”

To learn more about the Home for People with Special Needs from their website www.homeforspecialneeds.com

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Unveiling ultimate escape: GlobeAir’s long-haul service to The Nautilus Maldives

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The Nautilus Maldives has announced an extraordinary partnership with GlobeAir, Europe’s leading private jet operator. This exclusive collaboration introduces GlobeAir’s long-haul private jet services to the Maldives, setting a new benchmark for bespoke travel and offering an unparalleled journey into the world of ultimate luxury.

By joining forces, The Nautilus and GlobeAir aim to redefine bespoke travel, combining their expertise to deliver highly personalised and unforgettable experiences for the most discerning global travellers. This partnership seamlessly merges two realms of exceptional luxury, elevating both the travel experience and the destination itself.

GlobeAir’s newly launched long-haul private jet services to the Maldives reimagine private aviation with tailored itineraries, exceptional service, and unmatched comfort. From the moment passengers board, their journey is designed to reflect the elegance and exclusivity synonymous with The Nautilus. This collaboration exemplifies The Nautilus’s commitment to absolute freedom and bespoke ultra-luxury hospitality, where every detail is meticulously curated to ensure an unforgettable experience. Together, The Nautilus and GlobeAir invite guests to embark on a seamless transition from takeoff to the barefoot luxury of the Maldives.

The Exclusive Nautilus Experience:

  • A Seamless Voyage: Guests begin their journey with a round-trip aboard a GlobeAir private jet, where every detail is crafted to provide ultimate comfort and personalised service.
  • A Timeless Stay in Paradise: Upon arrival at The Nautilus, time slows down, and bespoke experiences take centre stage. With only 26 ultra-luxury boho-chic houses and residences, each space offers complete privacy and is tailored to individual preferences.
  • Complimentary Cinema Under the Stars: Guests can indulge in an enchanting beachside cinema experience, featuring a custom bokkura setup and the soothing sounds of the Indian Ocean. The evening is complete with a bottle of fine champagne, blending barefoot sophistication with the magic of the Maldives.
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Bond beyond travel: Iain and Debbie’s 40-visit love affair with Reethi Faru Resort

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Reethi Faru Resort proudly celebrates the extraordinary journey of two devoted guests, Iain and Debbie, who recently marked a special milestone: Debbie’s 40th visit to the Maldives. Iain, who has visited even more frequently, shares this remarkable tradition with Debbie, which began in 2005 when they discovered the Mahogany Group by chance. Since then, their deep connection with the resort has brought them back year after year.

Iain and Debbie’s love for the Maldives transcends mere vacations, evolving into a meaningful relationship with the resort and its staff. “When we arrive, it feels like we’re meeting family at the end of a very long journey,” Debbie shares, describing the warm and welcoming environment that greets them every time. Their bond with the staff is reflected in the many holidays, birthdays, and special occasions they have celebrated together.

Now retired, the couple enjoys extended stays at Reethi Faru, often spending up to three months a year diving, dining, and relaxing at the spa. Their loyalty to the resort is a testament to the exceptional service and community spirit it fosters. “We know everyone who works in the restaurants, and they treat us like friends,” Iain explains. “Those little touches—like trying something new or receiving a taster dish—make all the difference.”

The emotional connection the couple has with the resort runs deep. “Every time we leave, I cry all day, even though I know I’ll be back in a few months,” Debbie admits. “It’s always very hard to leave such a wonderful place.”

Iain and Debbie have also shared their enthusiasm for Reethi Faru with others, inspiring friends to join them. “We’ve recommended Reethi Faru to many of our friends, and it has become a central meeting point for divers and food lovers,” Iain says. “We all share a common passion for what we love.”

Having now visited Reethi Faru 30 times, the couple has already planned their next trip to the resort, underscoring their unwavering affection for the island paradise.

Reethi Faru Resort remains committed to fostering an environment where guests can create lasting memories and forge deep connections. The resort eagerly anticipates welcoming Iain, Debbie, and all returning guests for many years to come.

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Awards

Coco Bodu Hithi wins ‘Best Service’ at 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards

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Coco Bodu Hithi, a renowned boutique resort in the Maldives celebrated for its Maldivian-inspired elegance, has received recognition at the 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence.

This prestigious accolade honours outstanding quality across recommended properties worldwide and serves as a trusted benchmark for travellers and industry professionals alike. Coco Bodu Hithi was awarded the title of ‘Best Service’ by Condé Nast Johansens for its exceptional hospitality, which seamlessly blends serene surroundings with meticulous, personalised service.

Additionally, the resort was recently recognised in the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards as one of the top resorts in the Indian Ocean, cementing its position as a leader in luxury travel. Offering a thoughtfully curated guest experience, Coco Bodu Hithi continues to set itself apart within the industry.

The resort also excels in culinary innovation, boasting four exceptional restaurants. Renowned Michelin-starred chefs frequently collaborate with Group Culinary Director and Michelin-starred chef Martin Cahill to craft exquisite dining experiences, reflecting Coco Bodu Hithi’s unwavering commitment to service excellence and world-class gastronomy.

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