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Blue skies ahead for Four Seasons resorts as Maldives reopens borders
As the Maldives reopens its borders to international travellers, Four Seasons new global Lead With Care programme and contactless Chat experience offer the ultimate reassurance and care in a new era of travel.
With the health and safety of guests, residents and employees as Four Seasons Resorts Maldives top priority, Lead With Care – enhanced health and safety protocols led by global experts – sees resort-wide changes, including additional employee training, cleaning with black light inspections, and social distancing measures in shared spaces.
Contact-free engagement is also made possible through Four Seasons App and Four Seasons Chat, an award-winning experience available in more than 100 languages that extends the company’s personalised 24/7 service without the need for face-to-face interaction.
All visitors entering the Maldives will be issued a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival following completion of a health declaration card and thermal screening.
Visitors will not be required to submit any medical test result or enter quarantine unless their screening indicates symptoms of Covid-19.
Since June 1, private jet travellers have been permitted entry to the country and similar provisions remain in place for visitors arriving via this route.
During the border closures, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru remained open as a virus-free home for visitors to the Maldives who were unable to travel home, while Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa – although closed to new arrivals – remained a virus-free bubble.
Embraced by UNESCO nature, Landaa Giraavaru’s soaring spaces and vast villa compounds make it a sanctuary of seclusion. The team has made the most of the quieter time, tending to Turtle Rehabilitation Centre patients; launching a partnership with The NOW Force for Good Alliance and EarthCheck; and working on exciting “planetary wellbeing” changes as The Spa evolves to “AyurMa.”
With its Forbes five-star rating and close proximity by speedboat to Male, Kuda Huraa is gleaming following a recent extensive refurbishment. Shining highlights include al fresco dining Mediterranean-style at Reef Club, exclusive marine-inspired treatments at The Island Spa, and new Deluxe Beach Pavilions with Pool: the ideal place to reconnect with friends and family in total privacy.
Four Seasons Explorer – the “floating resort” that cruises between Kuda Huraa and Landaa Giraavaru – is available for private charters only at present. With its own Five-Star PADI Centre, sleek stylish interiors and on-board spa, the 128 foot (39 metre), three-deck catamaran is the Maldives’ fastest and most luxurious liveaboard, a timely choice for groups of up to 22 seeking a private yacht experience in the wilderness.
Dreaming of a fully bespoke escape in the most private of paradises? Head to Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah for the ultimate limitless living experience: an exclusive-use five-acre (two hectare) playground, complete with seven bedrooms, Beach House, dive school, Oceans of Consciousness Spa and 62 foot (19 metre) yacht, the ultimate retreat for totally tailored family reunions, weddings and celebrations.
“Our islands haven’t felt the same without our guests, but in their emptier states one thing has been more apparent than ever before: the need for us to work together to protect not only the health of ourselves and our communities but nature as a whole,” Regional Vice President and General Manager Armando Kraenzlin was quoted in a statement, as saying.
“Having spearheaded resort-based marine conservation in the Maldives for 20 years, we now look forward to inspiring our teams and guests with a new era of sustainability-minded operations that prioritise the wellbeing of people and planet.”
Be the first on the guest list at Four Seasons Resorts Maldives at Kuda Huraa and Landaa Giraavaru with the Blue Skies Ahead Offer. Book by September 30 to enjoy stays valid until December 16. The offer includes:
- Fifteen per cent off published rates with a minimum stay of four nights
- Daily breakfast for two
- A romantic dinner for two in the embrace of nature, respecting space, serenity and safety
- A Call of the Earth couple’s spa experience (60 minutes) delivered with enhanced care and trust
- Manta-on-Call, snorkelling safari or dolphin cruise for two
- An added bonus of 20 per cent off a second room for families with children
- Free cancellation up to 72 hours before travel
To book an escape to Four Seasons Resort Maldives contact the Central Reservations Department team at +960 6600888 or email reservations.mal@fourseasons.com.
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.
Celebration
Patina Maldives unveils festive season of culinary delights and unforgettable experiences
Patina Maldives, Fari Islands, a trailblazer among tropical island destinations, is redefining seasonal celebrations with a festive program that blends classic Christmas traditions with a contemporary Maldivian flair. Highlights include a net-zero dinner by candlelight, a Japanese-Scandinavian sake experience, captivating performances by international artist Kelis, and ancient healing practices led by renowned practitioner Yuki Nishikubo. This enchanting lineup invites travellers to create lasting memories with loved ones.
From December 15, 2024, to January 15, 2025, the resort will present a range of tailored experiences, events, and pop-ups, encompassing gastronomy, wellness, sports, and family fun. Festivities begin on December 15 with the grand opening of Santa’s House—an enchanting wonderland of gifts and seasonal delights at the Fari Art Atelier—culminating in the highly anticipated Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 21.
On December 22, the Fari Beach Club Party will feature a sizzling BBQ feast, a laid-back coastal ambiance, and live performances by Hong Kong violinist Olivia Xiaolin and DJ Arthur Yeti. Christmas Eve will be celebrated with a special seasonal dinner at Portico restaurant, accompanied by live jazz from Indonesia’s Batavia Collective. Christmas Day will include holiday fun such as trivia, cocktails, canapés at Fari Beach Club, and a visit from Santa Claus.
Between Christmas and New Year’s Eve, culinary adventures will continue. On December 26, the Net Zero Candlelight Dinner at Roots restaurant will offer a starlit, eco-friendly dining experience accompanied by a performance from British singer-songwriter Portia Emare. The menu, inspired by slow food philosophies, highlights pure, seasonal ingredients. December 27 will see Helios restaurant hosting a Bedouin Night, featuring Middle Eastern flavours, fire and belly dancers, and live music.
On December 28, a Sake pairing dinner at Kōen will merge Japanese culinary artistry with Scandinavian emphasis on premium ingredients, creating a sophisticated dining experience paired with sake by the resort’s sommelier. The Fari Marina Village Festival on December 29 will bring together traditional Christmas market charm and vibrant local culture, with live music, performances, and local vendors.
As the new year approaches, beachside sundowners at the Stargazing Pier on December 30 will set a relaxing tone for the evening, featuring craft cocktails, canapés, and a curated wine selection. The New Year’s Eve celebration promises a spectacular farewell to 2024, featuring global cuisines, performances by local and international musicians, and dazzling midnight fireworks. Grammy-nominated artist Kelis will headline the evening at Amarta, a Skyspace installation by artist James Turrell, with DJ Tom Yeti leading an electrifying countdown to 2025.
The new year will begin with an exclusive creative collaboration between Japanese artist and designer Verdy and Patina Maldives. On January 4, Verdy will take over the decks at Fari Beach Club’s poolside party as part of the Fari Marina Festival. From January 5-10, Verdy’s Osaka-meets-NYC pizzeria, Henry’s PIZZA, will pop up at Farine, serving sensational slices and limited-edition Verdy x Patina Maldives merchandise.
Wellness enthusiasts can enjoy a range of treatments featuring products from Noble Panacea and Haeckels throughout the festive period. Renowned practitioner Yuki Nishikubo will return for a holistic wellness residency, offering shiatsu and acupuncture treatments to promote relaxation, stress relief, and increased energy.
Families can look forward to a host of activities designed to foster connection and joy, including a family football contest, padel and tennis tournaments, the Patina Triathlon, and the “Amazing Race.” Additional offerings include gingerbread house decoration, a family movie night under the stars, and a dedicated kids’ adventure zone.
Celebration
Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s festive journey begins with Cake Mixing ceremony
Sun Siyam Olhuveli marked the highly anticipated start of the festive season with a lively Christmas Cake Mixing ceremony held on the picturesque Watersports Beach, set against the stunning backdrop of a Maldivian sunset. The event, which took place on November 15, 2024, continued the resort’s cherished tradition of welcoming the holiday season, drawing inspiration from the classic European Rumtopf practice, where seasonal fruits are soaked in rum to create festive treats.
Under the vibrant hues of the evening sky, guests joined in the time-honoured ritual of mixing dried fruits, spices, and spirits, creating a flavourful base for the Christmas cakes and seasonal delicacies to be served during the festivities. The engaging atmosphere was enhanced by the active participation of the resort’s culinary team and management, who guided attendees through the experience while sharing insights into the tradition’s origins and its role in building excitement for the holidays.
Following the cake mixing ceremony, the resort hosted an exclusive Management Cocktail event to express gratitude to its guests for choosing Sun Siyam Olhuveli as their holiday destination. This intimate gathering featured a curated selection of beverages and canapés, providing a relaxed setting for guests to connect with fellow travellers and members of the resort’s management team. The evening was made even more special with the distribution of prizes and gift vouchers, adding an element of surprise and joy.
Commenting on the occasion, Hassan Didi, Executive Chef at Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives, stated, “With the cake mixing ceremony, we set the tone for a season of joy, togetherness, and celebration. It’s a cherished tradition that brings our guests and team together, creating unforgettable memories as we head into the holiday season.”
This year’s festive celebrations at Sun Siyam Olhuveli will feature an extraordinary theme, AstroFest 2024-2025, running from December 21, 2024, to January 8, 2025. This interstellar-inspired event promises a series of unforgettable activities and experiences, including stargazing sessions on the beach, celestial-themed gala dinners, and stellar performances. Designed to capture the wonder of the cosmos, AstroFest offers guests a unique blend of luxury and enchantment beneath the breathtaking Maldivian night sky.
Sun Siyam Olhuveli looks forward to welcoming guests to this cosmic celebration, setting the stage for a holiday season filled with joy, imagination, and festive cheer.
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