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Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru sets up turtle identification programme

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Banyan Tree Marine Lab to track sea turtles residing and frequenting on house reefs of both Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Angsana Ihuru in Maldives.

In January, the resort launched the Turtle ID Programme, tracking populations of sea turtles that either frequent or reside on the house reefs of the two luxury resorts and the nearby reefs, with the aim of monitoring the populations of these highly-endangered animals.

The Marine Lab Team uses technical software to identify the individual face pattern on the left or right side of the turtle’s head. Once the pattern has been mapped out, it is stored in a database and these patterns make it easy to compare and identify new turtles.

The resort encourages guests to contribute towards the initiative, by submitting images of turtles they encounter when snorkelling out on the reefs. The critically endangered Hawksbill Turtle is frequently spotted on the reefs, with high number of new turtles being identified. Each individual is named, so the team can more easily identify them while guiding snorkels.

The Banyan Tree Marine Lab actively engages guests and associates with ongoing marine conservation activities and initiatives, such as marine talks given on topics that include turtle and shark conservation, effective reef restoration and monitoring, and a novel long-term shark monitoring programme, which aims to critically assess the effectiveness of the nationwide shark-fishing ban, introduced across the Maldives in 2010.

The Turtle ID Programme, started six months ago, is just one of many new initiatives being implemented by the Banyan Tree Marine Lab and its sustainability team.

Another unique initiative involves the upcycling of abandoned drift-ghost nets, a major threat to sea turtles, into colourful bracelets; raising awareness about these dangers to marine animals, as well as the overall threat of marine plastic pollution to animal biodiversity and the health of our natural environments, as well as our own health.

Banyan Tree was founded with the core value of driving sustainable development. The company aims to embrace the natural environment, continually striving for social and environmental responsibility. With this in mind, the Marine Lab was built in 2004, the pioneer in the Maldives being the first of its kind to be funded and built on a private resort, where guests can learn about marine conservation and partake in the many sustainability activities on offer including coral planting, reef cleaning, shark monitoring and daily stingray feeding sessions.

Located in the North Male Atoll, 25 minutes speedboat journey from the airport, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru is an idyllic place for a relaxing holiday. With only 48 villas dotting around the island, privacy can easily be attained. The resort has a restaurant and a bar, a Marine Lab, PADI Gold Palm Five-Star resort dive centre and an award-winning Banyan Tree Spa.

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COMO Maalifushi highlights uncrowded surf access across southern atolls

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COMO Maalifushi presents a considered approach to surfing in the Maldives—one shaped by access, expertise, and the quiet privilege of space.

Located in the remote Thaa Atoll, the resort offers entry to a network of lesser-travelled breaks across the southern atolls, where consistent Indian Ocean swells meet uncrowded line-ups. Here, surfing unfolds without urgency—guided by natural rhythm rather than routine.

At the core of the experience is COMO Maalifushi’s long-standing partnership with Tropicsurf, daily sessions are shaped by real-time ocean conditions, with coaching that adapts intuitively to each guest—whether taking to the water for the first time or refining technique across more complex reef formations.

Guests are given access to a curated selection of breaks across Thaa Atoll, Laamu Atoll and Dhaalu Atoll—each offering a distinct character. From the long, forgiving rides of Farms to the more technical, fast-moving rights of ‘Machine’, the programme is designed to evolve with both conditions and capability.

“Surfing at COMO Maalifushi is defined by its sense of space and possibility,” says Peter Nilsson, Managing Director, COMO Maldives. “Our location allows access to some of the Maldives’ most consistent yet uncrowded waves, and through our partnership with Tropicsurf, we’re able to offer an experience that is both highly personalised and quietly exceptional—true to COMO’s way of doing things.”

The season, which runs from April through October, brings steady swells from the southern Indian Ocean. Yet beyond seasonality, it is the absence of crowds that defines the experience—allowing guests to engage with the ocean on their own terms.

Surfing at COMO Maalifushi sits naturally within the wider rhythm of the island. Time in the water is balanced with restorative treatments at the COMO Shambhala Retreat, unhurried dining, and the simplicity of island life—creating a sense of flow between activity and stillness.

Here, surfing is guided with care, framed by nature, and experienced without excess.

For more information, please visit the resort’s website

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Angsana Velavaru marks reopening of upgraded futsal ground

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Angsana Velavaru has reopened its futsal facility as part of efforts to enhance guest experiences and staff engagement through sport and community activities.

The reopening ceremony was officiated by Dhaalu Atoll Council president Ahmed Shafiu and the resort’s general manager, Ahmed Zahir, who jointly cut the ribbon to mark the occasion.

Located within the island grounds, the futsal court measures 57 metres by 38 metres and is intended to serve as a space for both recreational use and organised activities for guests and resort associates.

The resort said the facility would form part of its wider recreational offering and would host workshops and expert-led collaborations aimed at providing guests with sports-based experiences while also supporting skill development and interaction. It added that the initiative also reflects its focus on staff wellbeing, teamwork and active living.

The opening event included friendly matches between the Angsana Velavaru men’s and women’s teams, as well as an inter-resort match between the Angsana Velavaru Orange Army and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru.

Adjacent to the futsal court is the resort’s upgraded watersports centre, which now includes updated guest facilities such as shower and changing areas.

Ahmed Zahir said the reopening of the futsal ground represented more than a recreational upgrade and reflected the resort’s commitment to creating meaningful experiences for both guests and associates. He said the facility would support active living, connection and wellbeing, while also serving as a space for learning and collaboration.

Angsana Velavaru, located in South Nilandhe Atoll, said the reopening of the futsal facility forms part of its wider efforts to expand its lifestyle and community-focused offerings.

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Coco Collection brings conservation and low-waste living into resort experience

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Coco Collection, a Maldivian-owned resort brand, has invited guests to experience a more conscious approach to luxury at Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu and Coco Bodu Hithi.

Across its two island resorts, Coco Collection has incorporated environmental responsibility into the guest experience through its Coco Cares philosophy. From nature-led experiences inspired by the islands’ ecosystems to culinary offerings based on fresh, locally grown ingredients, the resorts have been designed to reflect the natural setting of the Maldives while integrating sustainability into daily operations.

At Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, this commitment is reflected in the Maldives’ veterinary-led Marine Turtle Rescue Centre, which is operated in partnership with the Olive Ridley Project. As a founding partner of the facility, the resort provides care for injured sea turtles and supports marine conservation awareness. Since its establishment, the centre has treated and released 152 injured turtles, with a rehabilitation success rate of 60%. The resort also continues seagrass preservation efforts aimed at protecting marine habitats and supporting biodiversity in the surrounding waters.

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu also applies low-waste practices, mindful sourcing, and resource-conscious operations across the resort. This approach extends to Coco Farm, where homegrown produce, handcrafted preserves, and garden-to-table dining experiences are used to bring local flavour and seasonality to the table.

At Coco Bodu Hithi, the same approach is reflected in its food and beverage offerings. To mark Earth Day, the resort has introduced a green-inspired cocktail experience focused on eco-conscious mixology, using fresh ingredients grown on the island.

The resort said its low-waste approach informs all aspects of the guest experience, with attention given to responsible resource use. From the choice of herbs and fruits to preparation and presentation, the offering is intended to reflect respect for the natural environment.

This approach also extends across the resort’s wider culinary programme, which focuses on locally sourced ingredients, house-made preserves, and dishes inspired by the Maldives’ natural produce. Through seasonal menus, conscious sourcing, and resource management, Coco Bodu Hithi aims to offer an experience that combines hospitality with environmental responsibility.

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