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Nika Island writes new chapter of ‘Nostalgia’ with traditional poetry, music

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Since the inception, Nika Island Resort and Spa has focused on creating a unique destination. It has remained as the place to be, a place where local heritage meets Italian lifestyle and culture.

Nika is the island where nothing has changed. An everlasting thing of beauty that is not subject to the impact of the ever-expanding hospitality industry that is shaping the country. Nika represents “the Maldives that used to be”, an ‘idyll’ in the middle of the Indian Ocean.

An island with strong personality, Nika has a spirit, a soul and a mood of its own. You feel it while walking around the manicured gardens surrounding the coral-stone villas. You perceive it while sipping an espresso while watching neighbouring local islands pop up from the shades of blue at the horizon.

Nika turned into a resort back in 1983. Since its inception, the philosophy and values that shaped this unique boutique resort have remained the same: privacy, natural sophistication, and good taste and culture.

Nika wrote a new chapter in the history of the Maldives hospitality industry, and today, after 35 years of operation, it’s working on spreading the concepts of Maldivian beauty and Italian lifestyle that are part of Nika’s DNA.

As part of this initiative, a project called “Nostalgia” was born. It’s a mix of values and ideas that are the natural extension of the soul of Nika island.

“The etymology of the word nostalgia derives from Classic Greek consisting of ‘nóstos’ meaning ‘homecoming’, and ‘álgos’ meaning ‘pain’ or ‘ache’. Literally, Nostalgia is associated with a yearning for the past, its lost traditions and events, especially the ‘good old days’ or a ‘warm childhood’,” Edoardo Caccin, the resort’s External Director, said.

“It’s the perfect title for Nika’s project: culture and local heritage are components on which Nika has been building its reputation. It’s a moral obligation to preserve and revamp all the elements that make Nika – and the Maldives – a unique destination in the world.”

Heritage, culture and creativity are the main pillars of the project.

The first edition of Nostalgia focused on the almost lost tradition of stone carving, which is seen from the old Friday Mosque in capital Male.

Mohamed Imran, the founder of Gadheemee Collection, is becoming a familiar face at Nika. During Nostalgia events, Imran always shares with the curious crowd of guests and locals the importance of this art for the country and what he is currently doing to revamp local heritage.

For the latest chapter of Nostalgia, the Maldivian sculptor carved few tritons (known as Sangu in local Dhivehi language) out of a block of sandstone (locally known as veligaa). Nika’s community was invited to reproduce the pattern on the sculptures of these iconic Maldivian shells using Italian espresso.

“This is a beautiful metaphor. Maldives and Italy merged together in a piece of art; two cultures mix their values and tell a new story. This is Nika island and this is Nostalgia,” Edoardo said.

The second chapter of Nostalgia focused on poetry and music.

“Storytelling is the backbone of this initiative,” explained Edoardo. “That’s why for the second chapter of Nostalgia we opened the doors of Nika to the traditional band of Vajidhudoo. I think that before being musicians, they are storytellers. We invited them to sing their stories and music with Nika’s community.”

The group bases its entire musical production on traditional stories that belong to the culture of the people of the Maldives.

Music and poetry have the power to express ideas, feelings and culture by the use of style and rhythm. Vajidhudoo succeeded in this goal, playing both local and international instruments while singing songs related to local traditions.

With a night show, Nika along with Gadheemee Collection and Vajidhudoo managed to bring back memories of local traditions, to entertain the community and to instil awareness about Maldivian heritage; “the Maldives that used to be”.

What will the next theme of Nostalgia be?

Located in North Ari Atoll, Nika is is a milestone of the Maldives hospitality industry.

The deserted island of Kudafolhudhu turned into a resort back in 1983. Since its inception, the philosophy and values that shaped this unique boutique resort are the same: privacy, natural sophistication and local heritage.

All of its 43 villas have been built according to the traditional Maldivian architectural style. Being one of the first resorts built in the country, everything on the island has been built using coral blocks, coconut palm trunks and palm leaves. A collection of antiques and unique Maldivian pieces of art decorate the interiors of all the villas.

Nika is a perfect example of a boutique hotel that breaks the dynamics of big international brands that are reshaping the Maldivian hospitality industry. Nika is a heady mix of Italian lifestyle and Maldivian traditions; a unique platform where heritage and natural beauty meet together.

Culture

Kuda Villingili presents family-focused Eid al-Fitr experience in Maldives

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Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has announced a three-day Eid al-Fitr 1447 AH programme, inviting guests to celebrate the occasion from 19 to 21 March 2026 in a tranquil island setting that brings together family, reflection, and shared moments.

Following the holy month of Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr at the resort is designed as a gentle transition into celebration, offering guests the freedom to mark the festival at their own pace. The programme brings together families, couples, and friends through curated dining experiences, relaxed island gatherings, and moments of quiet connection by the Indian Ocean.

Culinary experiences form the centre of the Eid programme. Celebrations begin with the Kuda Eid Feast Buffet Dinner at The Restaurant, featuring Middle Eastern and Maldivian dishes served under the stars, accompanied by soft island music. Guests can also gather at Spice for the Kuda Eid Lunch Feast, a five-course Middle Eastern fusion menu by the Qureshi brothers, inspired by traditional flavours and designed for sharing in the spirit of Eid. Evenings continue at The Bar with an Arabic Shisha Night, combining live DJ music with a relaxed social atmosphere.

Eid mornings at the resort offer a calmer start to the day, with a Signature Floating Breakfast served in the privacy of each villa pool. Guests can also enjoy Eid Signature Mocktails, created with floral and spice notes that reflect the season’s sense of gratitude and renewal. An interactive Art of Shisha Making experience is also available, encouraging conversation and shared storytelling.

The Eid programme has been curated to include guests of all ages. Younger visitors are welcomed at Kuda Fiyo, where Eid-themed creative workshops, treasure trails, storytelling sessions, games, and movement activities are organised to create memorable experiences while reflecting the cultural significance of the occasion.

For families and adventure-seekers, the resort also offers Eid al-Fitr Ocean Adventures. A personalised Big Game Fishing experience provides an opportunity to spend time together on the open sea, combining quiet reflection with exploration of the surrounding waters.

With its expansive island layout, eight dining destinations, and the Maldives’ largest swimming pool, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives presents an Eid al-Fitr celebration that blends tradition with contemporary island living, offering space, privacy, and a relaxed setting for guests seeking a meaningful Eid experience in the Maldives.

The full Eid al-Fitr 2026 programme can be viewed here. More information about the resort is available from the resort’s website.

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SO/ Maldives illuminates Diwali with culinary delights, festive spirits, chic island vibes

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This Diwali, SO/ Maldives is set to dazzle with a bold celebration that blends cultural tradition with the resort’s signature flair. Guests are invited to indulge in a day of flavor, music, and style, wrapped in the spirit of light and festivity.

The day begins at The Citronelle Club, where guests can immerse themselves in India’s sweetest traditions with a complimentary Gulab Jamun cooking class. This hands-on session not only celebrates the art of crafting one of India’s most iconic desserts but also offers guests a memorable experience of cooking and tasting together in true festive spirit.

Following the workshop, the culinary journey continues with an exclusive tasting of SO/ Maldives’ brand-new Indian à la carte menu. Bursting with bold flavors and modern interpretations, this exciting menu brings a fresh twist to traditional favorites, showcasing dishes designed to delight both seasoned gourmands and those discovering Indian cuisine for the first time.

As the afternoon rolls into evening, the celebrations flow seamlessly to Lazuli Beach Club and The Citronelle Club, where guests can savor the moment with 40% off select premium beverage bottles. Whether shared over a meal or enjoyed as a toast to togetherness, these indulgent pours elevate the festive mood with sophistication.

The evening comes alive with a vibrant lineup of cultural and family-friendly activities. Guests can express their creativity at a Family Diya Workshop, lighting up the night with personalized clay lamps that symbolize joy and prosperity. At Lazuli Beach Club, a Henna Workshop invites guests to adorn their hands with intricate patterns, while the beachfront transforms into a canvas for a Rangoli experience, where colorful designs bloom in the sand to celebrate the artistry and spirit of Diwali.

No Diwali celebration is complete without a golden-hour glow. At Lazuli Beach, the festivities shine brighter with 50% off saffron martinis during sunset, accompanied by live DJ beats. As the Maldivian sky turns to hues of orange and gold, guests can sip, sway, and soak in an electric yet elegant atmosphere, perfectly in tune with the spirit of Diwali.

“At SO/ Maldives, we reimagine cultural celebrations with a bold, chic island twist. This Diwali, we’ve curated a day that’s all about indulgence, flavors, music, and unforgettable moments,” said Olivier MOIES-DELVAL, General Manager, SO/ Maldives. “It’s about honoring tradition while celebrating in style, surrounded by the natural beauty and energy of the Maldives.”

SO/ Maldives invites guests to light up their Diwali with this one-of-a-kind experience that blends the richness of Indian traditions with the resort’s signature playful luxury.

Celebrate light, flavor, and island chic this Diwali at SO/ Maldives.

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Malaa – The Maldivian Café: NH Kuda Rah’s new culinary jewel

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NH Maldives Kuda Rah has announced the launch of its newest food and beverage outlet, Malaa – The Maldivian Café. Now open to guests, the café offers a taste of authentic Maldivian cuisine alongside interactive Maldivian cooking classes.

Guests staying at NH Maldives Kuda Rah can delve into the country’s rich culinary traditions with guidance from award-winning Executive Chef Farish Mukhthar. With over 22 years of experience in the hospitality and culinary industries across five-star and ultra-luxury resorts in the Maldives, Chef Farish brings a deep-rooted passion and refined expertise to the resort. Trained under renowned European celebrity chefs, he has earned a strong reputation for his culinary artistry.

The café focuses exclusively on authentic Maldivian dishes, using locally sourced ingredients from nearby islands as well as the chef’s own garden within the resort. Cooking classes offer guests the opportunity to prepare classic Maldivian dishes, such as curry and local salads, under the guidance of Chef Farish—culminating in a delicious homemade lunch.

As fish (both fresh and smoked) is the staple of the Maldivian diet, it is often prepared with coconut and rice or roshi (Maldivian flatbread). Other traditional ingredients include breadfruit and sweet potato—versatile and starchy staples that feature in a wide range of local dishes. The cuisine is often boldly spiced, with the fiery Scotch bonnet chilli, locally known as githeyo mirus, playing a central role. This essential chilli, along with herbs grown organically in the resort’s garden, imparts a distinctive heat and fruity flavour to many Maldivian dishes.

While many resorts in the Maldives offer a wide array of international cuisine—ranging from Italian and Japanese to French and Indian—the opportunity to savour authentic local flavours can be one of the most memorable aspects of travel. Malaa – The Maldivian Café provides a unique and immersive dining experience for those curious about Maldivian culinary heritage and the fascinating stories behind its traditional ingredients.

This initiative is part of NH Hotels & Resorts’ broader effort to connect guests with meaningful local experiences through its Live Local programme, under the Minor DISCOVERY loyalty scheme. The programme is designed to offer curated, immersive activities and authentic cultural encounters, allowing guests to engage more deeply with their destination.

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