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Maldives makes splashy debut on Forbes Travel Guide’s Star Rating Awards
Maldives has made a splashy debut on the prestigious Star Awards, picking up six of the highest awards by Forbes Travel Guide, the global expert on genuine Five-Star service.
Forbes Travel Guide on Wednesday presented a galaxy of “Stars” to the world’s most luxurious properties. A record 107 new Five-Star awards have been announced, owing to the company’s significant expansion across 16 countries.
To uncover the most outstanding properties, Forbes Travel Guide’s incognito inspectors check into a hotel for a minimum of two nights, posing as ordinary guests and paying their own way.
Then, they test up to 900 objective, exacting standards — including whether a staff member greets them curbside within 30 seconds of arrival, whether clothing left around a room is folded neatly or draped and placed within immediate view after turndown service, and whether the staff uniforms demonstrated exceptional design.
The ratings tabulate 75 per cent of a hotel’s score based on its service, whilst the remaining 25 per cent is determined by the quality of its facilities.
The 2020 awards celebrate 1,898 Star-rated properties in 73 countries; the full list can be found here. The new awards add 70 Five-Star, 120 Four-Star and 81 Recommended hotels to the annual winners list. Amongst restaurants, there are 13 new Five-Star, eight new Four-Star and two new Recommended winners. The recipients also include 24 new Five-Star and 22 new Four-Star spas.
This year sees the most extensive global expansion in Forbes Travel Guide’s 62-year history. The company spotlights new international markets, including Antigua, the Bahamas, Cambodia, Egypt, Fiji, French Polynesia, India, Jordan, the Maldives, Mauritius, New Zealand, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Scotland, the Seychelles and South Africa, many of which achieved the coveted Five-Star honour.
The Maldives made a splashy debut on the list, picking up six of the highest awards. The Maldivian winners go beyond the ordinary with their offerings.
At boutique hotel Velaa Private Island, tee off on the nine-hole golf course designed by Masters champion José María Olazábal, get up close to marine life with a Seabob underwater scooter, or cool off in the spa’s one-of-a-kind snow room, the only one in the Maldives.
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa recently unveiled new Beach Pavilion accommodations with private plunge pools, and the Four Seasons Explorer, a three-deck catamaran with 11 guest cabins, docks at the property.
Dive into the waters of Cheval Blanc Randheli to swim with the manta rays or snorkel at night to see biofluorescent marine life.
Design also shines at the Maldives hotels.
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort veers modern with the sleek architecture of its villas and the whale-shark-shaped Whale Bar. The spa’s Blue Hole Pool is an expansive hydrotherapy oasis that seems to melt into the ocean.
The three-island Kanuhura Maldives goes for a bohemian feel with whitewashed villas adorned with funky art and Iru bar’s beaded swings and beach teepee.
One&Only Reethi Rah puts the scenery at the forefront, from yoga in an overwater pavilion to dining in a treehouse.
Maldivian resorts that made it to the list with a Four-Star rating include Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Joali Maldives, Jumeirah Vittaveli, Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa and Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, Maldives. Amilla Fushi, Six Senses Laamu and Taj Coral Reef Resort & Spa Maldives were also listed as Recommended hotels in the Maldives.
“It’s a privilege for Forbes Travel Guide to honour such magnificent hotels, restaurants and spas from all corners of the globe. Each deserving recipient excels at enriching people’s lives through the power of exceptional service,” Filip Boyen, CEO of Forbes Travel Guide, was quoted in a statement, as saying.
“Our role at Forbes Travel Guide is to establish our annual star ratings with absolute independence and integrity and champion those at the very top of their game.”
More than 600 Star-Rated winners and invited VIP guests will gather to celebrate at Verified, The Forbes Travel Guide Luxury Summit at ARIA Resort & Casino in Las Vegas on February 18 and 19.
As the recipients of multiple Five-Star awards, the MGM International property will be packed with inspirational speakers and discovery sessions.
The event will culminate in a gala dinner hosted by Oscar-winning actress Marisa Tomei, followed by an exclusive afterglow hosted by Wynn Las Vegas XS nightclub where headline DJ Dillon Francis and other exciting surprises await the 2020 award winners.
Featured
Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s latest beachfront retreats on Dream Island
Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives has unveiled 40 newly constructed Grand Beach Suites with Private Pools, located on the exclusive Dream Island. These luxurious 101 sqm suites combine contemporary elegance with Maldivian charm, providing a serene retreat surrounded by lush gardens and turquoise waters.
Situated along the pristine shores of Dream Island, the Grand Beach Suites offer an exceptional blend of style and comfort, accommodating up to four adults or two adults with three children. Designed by Sun Siyam Resorts’ design and construction teams, the interiors feature sleek, earthy tones and a calming island ambiance. The refined design captures the essence of Maldivian allure while maintaining a chic, modern aesthetic.
Each Grand Beach Suite includes a private pool, surrounded by lush tropical gardens and offering stunning views of the turquoise Maldivian waters. The spacious layout features a convertible extra room that can serve as a cozy bedroom for children, separate from the main living area. The open bathroom concept offers luxury with an outdoor bathtub and rain shower, complemented by high-quality toiletries and thoughtful amenities. Guests can also enjoy the expansive outdoor terrace deck, an ideal spot to relax by the private pool and take in the panoramic ocean views accompanied by the soothing sound of nearby waves.
Hassan Adil, General Manager at Sun Siyam Olhuveli, expressed enthusiasm about the new suites, stating, “These new Grand Beach Suites with Private Pools offer guests a heightened sense of tranquility and style. Our Planning Department’s team has masterfully captured the essence of the Maldives, creating spaces that blend nature with ultimate comfort and sophistication.”
Whether relaxing by the pool or unwinding on the private beach, guests of the Grand Beach Suites are offered unparalleled privacy and comfort. Designed for honeymooners, couples, and families, these suites provide the ultimate escape for those seeking a refined and immersive Maldivian experience.
Celebration
Disco fever takes over Amilla Maldives this festive season
The festive season at Amilla Maldives promises to be an unforgettable celebration, blending the magic of the holidays with the vibrant energy of a 70s-inspired disco theme. From December 20th, 2024, through the New Year and into early January, the resort transforms into a retro wonderland with ‘Disco Fever @ Amilla,’ offering guests a unique array of activities, events, and dining experiences designed to create lasting memories.
Guests can begin their days with a luxurious breakfast at Fresh, followed by an assortment of lunch options at Emperor’s Beach Club, Joe’s, or Fresh. Evenings bring a choice of diverse culinary experiences at restaurants such as East, Barolo, Tessera, and Feeling Koi, except on special event nights, when themed dinners take centre stage.
Each night offers the enchantment of outdoor cinema at Amilla Odeon, where families can enjoy a movie under the stars accompanied by popcorn and refreshments. For those seeking action and adventure, the Vibe Tribe program ensures endless fun, providing a mix of energetic activities like beach volleyball and relaxing pastimes such as board games, catering to teens and adults alike.
The celebrations culminate on New Year’s Eve with a spectacular disco-themed party. Guests are invited to dress in 70s-inspired outfits and enjoy live entertainment from Björn Again, the renowned ABBA tribute band. As the clock strikes midnight, the festivities continue with an exclusive after-party at Tessera, ensuring a dazzling start to 2025.
Christmas at Amilla Maldives is equally magical, with highlights including an underwater disco led by Santa Claus at the main pool, a festive brunch, and a lively ‘Carol-oke’ event. Throughout the season, themed nights and special activities abound, from traditional Maldivian dinners to fashion shows, creative workshops, and sporting events such as water polo, beach badminton, and football matches.
The resort also offers unique culinary events, featuring wine pairings, BBQ nights, and a New Year’s Day brunch complete with mermaids and mimosas. Children are treated to an array of engaging activities, including reindeer cookie making, mocktail sessions, costume contests, and arts and crafts, ensuring fun for the whole family.
Amilla Maldives invites its guests to embrace the retro spirit of the season, creating moments that shine as brightly as the iconic disco ball. This festive season promises to be a celebration like no other, filled with music, joy, and sparkle.
Featured
Unveiling ultimate escape: GlobeAir’s long-haul service to The Nautilus Maldives
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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