Featured
Vakkaru Maldives to reopen on Aug 1, rolls out new ‘Vakkare’ safety programme
In response to the development of the Covid-19 pandemic, Vakkaru Maldives continues to follow the latest advice and recommendations from the authorities.
Whilst the country is exerting every effort to contain the virus, the government of Maldives is at its planning stage to introduce safe tourism guidelines. The tourism ministry has officially announced that the Maldives will be reopening its borders for visitors in July.
Vakkaru Maldives is looking forward to reopening its door for our valued guests on August 1.
New ‘Vakkare’ safety programme
The Maldives already offers one of the safest locations in the world, owing to the natural and unique concept of one island one resort.
Vakkaru promises you an intimate slice of paradise, where you can enjoy a safe and happy holiday in the privacy of your own island home. The one proviso being that all travellers have to be fit for travel and entry into the Maldives.
In preparation for its reopening, Vakkaru is doubling down on its commitment to health and safety. The resort is launching an elevated hygiene procedure called ‘Vakkare’ — meaning Vakkaru Cares — for the guests, its team members, the community and business partners.
Vakkaru’s dedicated team is being trained to deliver the most hygienic attention possible from the moment they arrive into their ‘Kare’, providing guests with the confidence that they will enjoy an exceptional vacation in the safest surroundings.
Whether you are travelling as a couple or in a family, you will be in the ‘Kare’, the moment you arrive at the Velana International Airport. Vakkaru’s team will ensure the right escort until you embark on your scenic journey to the timeless sanctuary.
At the resort, elevated hygiene and sanitation practices will be reinforced in all the public areas, production outlets and housekeeping. Proactive sanitisation and social distancing measures, particularly in restaurants, buffets and other common areas such as the gym, pool and beach will be observed.
Vakkaru will encourage many activities, such as diving, excursions, fishing and snorkelling, which can be privately enjoyed with limited contacts.
To give guests complete peace of mind, team members will go through all necessary medical checks prior to being back on duty. In the event of an emergency, a certified resort doctor will have all the necessary equipment and accessories in place, together with an isolation room, in line with guidance issued by the World Health Organisation and local authorities.
Waiver policy
Vakkaru remains committed to ensuring flexibility for its valued guests during these extraordinary times. The resort has further extended its cancellation policy, exceptionally for all bookings confirmed in July.
In the interim, the Vakkaru team remains available to assist you with your existing reservations, rebooking process or to provide you with any information regarding booking a future stay at the resort. Please contact the team at reservations@vakkarumaldives.com.
“At Vakkaru Maldives, rest assured that we are committed to the joy of travel and delivering exceptional experiences to our discerning guests in a safe and healthy environment,” an announcement read.
“Until then, stay safe and stay inspired to visit Maldives later. We are looking forward to welcoming you to our timeless sanctuary in the near future.”
Set in Baa atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and just 30 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport, Vakkaru offers an intimate slice of paradise with an enticing distillation of everything that makes this country so unique.
With spectacular marine biodiversity, white-sand beaches, exemplary service and the truly world-class dining options, the resort is committed to creating timeless memories, effortlessly.
Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi wins ‘Best Service’ at 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards
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.
Drink
Cocktail art meets tropical bliss: Tao Zrafi transforms Oaga Art Resort’s Sobi Bar
Oaga Art Resort has transformed its Sobi Bar into a Mixology Garden, showcasing a collaboration with internationally acclaimed Beverage Artist and Netflix’s ‘Drink Masters’ finalist, Tao Zrafi.
Far from the typical poolside bar, the revamped Sobi Bar offers a unique experience where artistic cocktails take centre stage. Standard drinks are replaced with Tao Zrafi’s creations, which expertly blend local Maldivian flavours with surprising twists, providing a sensory journey for visitors.
Each cocktail at Sobi Bar is a testament to Tao Zrafi’s creativity. His exclusive menu combines stunning visual presentation with complex, delightful flavours, elevating the drink experience into an art form.
The Mixology Garden caters to diverse tastes. In addition to Tao Zrafi’s signature creations, Sobi Bar offers a curated selection of international gins and artisanal beers, ensuring every guest finds the perfect beverage to suit their preferences.
To commemorate the launch of the Mixology Garden, Oaga Art Resort is hosting several special events:
- Cocktail Masterclasses (November 29 and December 6): Guests can learn from Tao Zrafi himself, discovering the secrets behind his innovative cocktails.
- The Grand Unveiling (December 5): This evening celebration features Tao’s signature cocktails, a buffet, live music, interactive mural painting, and spectacular fire shows. Guests can enjoy a sunset soiree combining art, music, and unforgettable flavours.
Sneak peeks of Tao Zrafi’s creations are available on Oaga Art Resort’s social media platforms, offering a teaser of the enchanting cocktails awaiting guests at Sobi Bar.
Whether seeking relaxation, artistic inspiration, or an elevated cocktail experience, the Mixology Garden at Sobi Bar promises something extraordinary. With its blend of stunning flavors, unique atmosphere, and unforgettable events, Oaga Art Resort ensures every visitor leaves with cherished memories of paradise.
Featured
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa announces exclusive collaboration with Maldivian
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa, a luxury destination located in the pristine Haa Alifu Atoll of the Maldives, has announced its exclusive partnership with Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, for all seaplane and domestic flight transfers. Starting from November 1st, 2024, this collaboration aims to provide guests with unparalleled convenience and seamless travel to the resort, ensuring daily service, with additional transfers available depending on the season.
The resort is known for its spacious villas, exceptional privacy, a wide array of experiences, world-class amenities, and personalised service, all set in a lush, natural island paradise. With Maldivian as its exclusive seaplane transfer partner, guests can enjoy a direct, swift, and scenic journey from Velana International Airport to the resort’s doorstep.
Ahmed Hafeez, Managing Director of Lily Hotels, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with Maldivian to elevate our guests’ arrival and departure experience. This collaboration ensures a smooth and luxurious transition, allowing guests to begin their unforgettable holiday the moment they step off the plane.”
Upon arrival at Velana International Airport, guests are welcomed by the resort’s dedicated airport representatives, who escort them to the exclusive Lily Hotels Lounge at the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal. Here, they can relax and enjoy panoramic views, complimentary refreshments, and Wi-Fi while awaiting their transfer.
In addition to seaplane transfers, Maldivian will also manage domestic flight transfers for guests who prefer this alternative. This comprehensive approach highlights Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa’s commitment to providing flexible and convenient travel solutions.
The partnership with Maldivian also positions the resort for future growth, particularly with the upcoming upgrade of Hanimaadhoo International Airport. This development is expected to enhance accessibility and offer more travel options for the resort’s clientele. The collaboration is anticipated to generate increased interest in the less-explored northern Maldives, an area known for its untouched natural beauty and more tranquil, underwater experiences.
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