News
Taj Hotels and Shangri-La Hotels form Industry-First Alliance

Two iconic Asian hotel companies join forces to broaden their reach and scale across 200 hotels, 27 countries and 131 destinations
Two of Asia’s most iconic luxury hotel groups, Hong Kong-based Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts and Mumbai-based Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces, announced today they have formed a ground-breaking strategic alliance to broaden their reach and offer more unique experiences to guests across Asia and the world.
The alliance will officially launch in March 2017 with the introduction of the “Warmer Welcomes” programme, which integrates Taj InnerCircle and Shangri-La’s Golden Circle guest loyalty programmes and will provide members reciprocal and seamless benefits at a scale never seen before under a hospitality alliance. Both Taj and Shangri-La are renowned worldwide for their exceptional service philosophy that is deeply rooted in, and inspired by, the cultures and traditions of the markets they operate in.
Recognition is Just the Beginning
The “Warmer Welcomes” programme will offer Shangri-La and Taj’s combined 6 million loyalty programme members the benefits most important to them:
- Recognition: Members will be able to enjoy the perks of their elite status when they stay at any Shangri-La or Taj hotel with top-tier status matching.
- Earn points across 200 hotels, 27 countries and 131 destinations: Members of either program will now be able to earn award points in their preferred programme while staying with Taj or Shangri-La whether in Mumbai, New Delhi, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore, Paris, London, New York and other key destinations in the world.
- Seamless redemptions: Members will be able to convert points to redeem awards between both programmes.
Rakesh Sarna, MD and CEO Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces said: “This is a strategic step in bringing greater synergies amongst two brands known for their legendary hospitality. Over time, our valued guests and loyalty members had shared their desire for a wider selection of world class hotels in key destinations. This alliance will help drive deeper engagement for our most valuable guests and members as they will now be recognized seamlessly at some of the world’s finest hotels across multiple geographies.”
“As hotel owner-operators who share similar values and service philosophies but have minimal overlap of properties, Taj and Shangri-La are in a unique position to establish a seamless alliance that goes beyond a marketing partnership or multi-hotel distribution platform,” said Shangri-La Acting President Madhu Rao. “Our alliance bridges two iconic Asian brands and opens up a world of new experiences for our loyal guests. We will be able to enhance brand awareness and increase market share by providing Golden Circle and Taj InnerCircle members more value and more reasons to stay with us.”
India and China are currently the fastest-growing major economies of the world. They have the fastest-growing outbound travel markets in terms of number of travellers and have witnessed double-digit year-on-year growth for the past few years.
As part of its “Loyalty Is” fifth anniversary celebration this year, Shangri-La’s Golden Circle has rolled out an array of new member benefits and partnerships, the most recent being Infinite Journeys with Singapore Airlines. In addition, Golden Circle has recently introduced programmes such as Event Planner Rewards and The Table by Golden Circle, Shangri-La’s first global dining loyalty programme.
Taj relaunched InnerCircle in 2015 with augmented features and enhancements, applicable globally across all hotels. The revamped programme has no blackout dates, an easy redemption process with myriad opportunities ranging from accommodation, restaurants and spas, and no expiry of points for active members. Most recently, Taj InnerCircle also redesigned its Epicure programme, renewed with offers that extend globally. It now gives its patrons an all-encompassing experience of Dine, Drink, Stay, Spa and Redeem.
News
Allure of Platinum Island at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives

Across a glittering turquoise lagoon, far from the hum of everyday life, lies a destination crafted purely for togetherness. Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives is a slice of paradise where crystal-clear waters stretch endlessly into the horizon and island life flows to the rhythm of the tides. With its classic charm, two distinct islands, and an atmosphere of laid-back luxury, it’s a destination that invites guests to escape, unwind, and reconnect with nature.
Tucked just across the lagoon is the resort’s exclusive Platinum Island—an adults-only haven thoughtfully designed for couples seeking space, seclusion, and serenity. Accessible by a quick boat ride from the main island, this private retreat feels like a world apart. Here, time slows, the sea shimmers with every shade of blue, and every experience is built around connection.
Each bungalow offers direct beach access, stunning sea views, and open-air bathrooms where you can shower under the sky. Interiors are warm and airy, designed to blur the lines between indoor comfort and outdoor beauty. It’s not uncommon for couples to spend hours on their private deck—doing nothing but watching the changing colours of the sea, listening to the hush of the breeze, and simply being present with each other.
Dining, too, is elevated to something special. The island’s exclusive Manzaru Restaurant & Bar ensures that every meal is shared in serenity—whether it’s a slow breakfast by the pool, a romantic seafood dinner beneath the stars, or handcrafted cocktails that carry you from sunset to starlight. There’s a sense that nothing is rushed here, and every moment has room to unfold.
For couples seeking meaningful experiences, Platinum Island offers quiet luxury with a sense of purpose. Indulge in couples’ spa rituals at the overwater Mandara Spa, take a sunset cruise aboard a traditional Maldivian dhoni, or surprise your partner with a curated private beach dinner. And if your idea of romance is simply doing nothing at all, there’s no better place to do just that.
And now, there’s even more reason to escape to this serene slice of paradise. With the Cinnamon DISCOVERY Member Rate, couples can enjoy an all-inclusive getaway that’s as effortless as it is indulgent. Book between 1st April and 31st October 2025 for stays from 1st May 2025 to 31st October 2026, and enjoy:
- All Meals Included
- FREE Return Speedboat Transfers
- FREE Daily Snorkelling Sessions
- 15% Off Food, Beverage & Excursions
- Exclusive Cinnamon DISCOVERY Member Benefits
Whether it’s your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply time to reconnect, Platinum Island at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives is where romance isn’t just rekindled—it’s redefined. And with this exclusive offer, your dream escape feels even closer.
Family
Fun Easter festivities for travellers of all ages at Fushifaru Maldives

Fushifaru Maldives invites guests to embrace the spirit of Easter with an exciting lineup of family-friendly activities set against the breathtaking backdrop of this exquisite, little island. From delightful egg hunts to vibrant poolside celebrations, this Easter at Fushifaru promises unforgettable moments for guests of all ages.
The Easter celebrations will commence with a joyful Easter breakfast where guests can indulge in a delectable spread while welcoming the arrival of the Easter Bunny, bringing smiles to little ones. Children will have the chance to unleash their creativity with egg painting, crafting beautifully decorated Easter eggs as keepsakes from their island adventure.
A highlight of the festivities is the Easter Pool Party, where families can dive into fun with music, games, and refreshing treats by the infinity pool. Meanwhile, young guests can experience the ultimate pampering at the Egg-citing Kids’ Spa, designed to offer a playful yet relaxing wellness experience tailoured especially for them.
No Easter celebration is complete without an exciting Easter Egg Hunt. Little explorers will embark on an island-wide adventure in search of hidden treasures, promising surprises and rewards along the way. As the sun sets, families can gather under the stars for an enchanting Easter Movie Night, enjoying classic films with popcorn and cosy bean bag seating.
For those seeking to dance the night away – head over to Fanihandi Bar for the Easter Disco Party, where guests can bop to lively beats, bringing the Easter festivities to a joyful close.
Family
Springtime sparkle: Magical unicorn-themed Easter celebration at Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa

Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa has announced a magical, unicorn-themed Easter program that promises a week of enchanting activities and unforgettable experiences for guests of all ages. From April 14, 2025 to April 20, 2025, the resort will transform into a whimsical wonderland, celebrating the spirit of Easter with a touch of fantasy.
Family-friendly Discoveries
Children will be delighted with a range of fun and creative activities at the Krakengiri Kids’ Club, one of the largest in the Maldives. Art classes with a resident artist will inspire young minds, while a pirate cruise and family-friendly movie nights under the stars provide endless entertainment. Themed classes, such as rainbow unicorn workshops, pizza making, and clay art, will keep little hands busy. Additional activities include rainbow milkshake workshops, evening glow parties, a sundown art competition and Runway to Rainbowland, a kids’ fashion show.
Teens can look forward to exciting and engaging activities designed just for them. They can express their creativity in a tie dye t-shirt design class, challenge their friends during virtual games nights, or enjoy friendly competition with volleyball on the beach and beach fun challenges. A teens’ mixology class at the Cocktail Lab offers a unique opportunity to learn new skills and create zero-proof beverages.
Families can enjoy quality time together with a variety of outdoor activities, including the Rainbow Glow fun run across the island, sports skills challenges, dolphin cruises, turtle snorkeling, and pool parties.
Active holidaymakers can access the 24-hour fitness centre or explore the island on bicycles. A versatile outdoor court hosts fitness workouts, tennis clinics, and pickleball sessions, while padel tennis enthusiasts can explore the new state-of-the-art seaside padel court.
Easter Feasts
The resort offers a range of dining experiences to delight every palate. At Beach Shack, guests can indulge in the Beach Market Buffet, or participate in the more intimate and exclusive chef’s table dinners. Eden Champagne and Gin Bar hosts wine tasting experiences, while an Italian cooking class with Chef Dario Raia at Origin offers a hands-on culinary adventure.
Additionally, guests can partake in traditional Easter activities such as egg painting, Easter craft workshops, cookie and cupcake decoration, and an egg hunt and bunny parade. The festivities will culminate in an Easter Gala Dinner on the beach, followed by a Neon Unicorn after-party, ensuring a vibrant and unforgettable celebration.
Breathe, Balance and Bloom at Amingiri Spa & Hammam
Embark on a journey of relaxation and rejuvenation with the resort’s carefully curated wellbeing experiences.
- Joyful Renewal: A 90-minute session including a massage, refreshing facial, and soothing paraffin wax for the feet.
- Mini-Unicorn Spa Escape: Designed for children and teens, the 45-minute session begins with a floral foot soak followed by a gentle arm and leg massage with pastel-colored oils. The experience ends with a pastel manicure and a refreshing smoothie named the Unicorn Elixir
Group activities include sunrise and sunset yoga, partner yoga for couples and families, pool workouts, floating sound meditation, glow in the dark aerial yoga, and candlelit meditation.
Guests seeking more specialized experiences can consult with visiting practitioner and certified Gyrotonic and Gyrokinesis expert Lorelei Bulan. In residence at the resort throughout April, she offers a menu of holistic movement, meditation and breathing techniques.
Wellness enthusiasts can also experience the extensive Sleep Wellness menu, designed to ease the mind and body into a state of deep and rejuvenating slumber. Options include a calming signature massage on the spa’s Skye deck; an evening hammam ritual in the modern hammam room; or an in-villa session incorporating guided meditation, yoga and breathwork.
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