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Air India to resume Maldives service as travel bubble kicks in

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Air India is set to resume scheduled passenger flights to the Maldives next week.

The neighbouring India’s flag carrier will operate a weekly service — on Tuesdays — between Trivandrum and Male.

Before the global coronavirus pandemic hit air travel, Air India, along with several other Indian airlines such as SpiceJet, GoAir and IndiGo, were operating direct flights between several Indian cities and Male.

Air India’s announcement comes days after officials from the Maldives and India inked an agreement to create a “travel bubble” to facilitate movement of people between the two countries.

India was the fastest growing source market for Maldives tourism in 2019, as arrivals recorded year-over-year growth of 83.5 per cent to reach 166,015 from 90,474 in 2018.

The Maldives reopened its borders on July 15.

With the border reopening, 30-day free on-arrival visa is issued to all tourists who has a confirmed booking for a stay at any registered tourist facility in the country. The entire holiday has to be booked at a single facility except for transit arrangements.

There is no mandatory quarantine or testing on arrival. Tourists have to complete a health declaration form only.

But visitors with symptoms of the Covid-19 respiratory disease caused by the novel coronavirus or those travelling with someone who has similar symptoms are tested at their own expense.

The coronavirus outbreak has hit the Maldivian economy hard, as travel restrictions and other preventive measures affect the country’s lucrative tourism industry, which contributes the bulk of the island nation’s state revenue and foreign reserves.

Before the pandemic, the government had been bullish about tourism prospects, targeting two million, high-spending holidaymakers this year after last year’s record 1.7 million.

However, only 382,760 tourists visited the Maldives before the country closed its borders on March 27. It was a 40.8 per cent decline over the 646,092 that visited the Maldives from January to March last year.

Meanwhile, the government’s best case scenario now puts total tourist arrivals for 2020 just above 800,000. 

Tourism has been the bedrock of the Maldives’ economic success. The $5 billion-dollar economy grew by 6.7 per cent in 2018 with tourism generating 60 per cent of foreign income.

However, the government is at present projecting a possible 13 per cent economic contraction this year — an estimated $778 million hit.

On March 8, Maldives reported its first cases of the novel coronavirus, as two hotel employees tested positive for Covid-19 at a luxury resort in the archipelago.

Eighteen more cases — all foreigners working or staying resorts and liveaboard vessels except five Maldivians who had returned from abroad — were later identified.

A six-case cluster of locals, detected in capital Male on April 15, confirmed community transmission of the coronavirus. Several more clusters have since been identified, bringing the total number of confirmed case in the Maldives to 6,225.

Twenty-four deaths have been reported, while 3,788 have made full recoveries.

The Maldives announced a state of public health emergency on March 12, the first such declaration under a recent public health protection law.

The public health emergency declaration allowed the government to introduce a series of unprecedented restrictive and social distancing measures, including stay-at-home orders in capital Male and its suburbs, a ban on inter-island transport and public gatherings across the country, and a nationwide closing of government offices, schools, colleges and universities.

Non-essential services and public places in the capital such as gyms, cinemas and parks were also shut.

Restaurants and cafes in the capital were asked to stop dine-in service and switch to takeaway and delivery.

A nationwide shutdown of all guesthouses, city hotels and spa facilities located on inhabited islands was also ordered.

The restrictions are now being eased in phases, with the third phase measures now active.

Celebration

Angsana Velavaru offers 101 ways to celebrate Holidays

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The festive season is a time for celebration, reflection, and cherished moments with loved ones. This year, Angsana Velavaru, located in the picturesque Maldives, invites its guests to embrace the holiday spirit with a series of unique events and unforgettable experiences. From December 21 to January 7, the resort will host exclusive activities that embody the heartwarming essence of the holidays while showcasing the beauty and culture of the Maldives.

Angsana Velavaru’s festive journey is curated to create magical memories through 101 exciting ways to celebrate. Highlights include Santa’s arrival and an exclusive New Year’s Eve countdown party, each designed to immerse visitors in the joy and warmth of the season. The celebrations commence on December 21 with the lighting of the resort’s grand Christmas tree. This spectacular event serves as the perfect beginning to a festive holiday experience, where guests can revel in the glow of the illuminated tree and anticipate the exciting events ahead.

On December 24, the island transforms with the arrival of Santa, spreading joy among guests. A festive cocktail party follows, accompanied by holiday carols, culminating in a vibrant red-and-white DJ party at the Kuredhi Pool Bar. For those preferring a quieter celebration, the resort offers a Christmas Eve Gala Dinner at Kaani Restaurant, featuring a specially curated menu that blends Maldivian flavours with global festive favourites.

The celebrations continue on December 25 with a Santa Meet & Greet, providing children with the opportunity to meet Santa and create unforgettable memories. Later, guests can enjoy a magical Christmas Movie Night under the stars, where festive films are screened in a tropical outdoor setting.

As the year draws to a close, the festivities reach their peak on December 31 with an Innovative Cocktail Counter offering creative cocktails to add sparkle to the final moments of 2024. The New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner and Countdown Party serve as the season’s highlight, providing a glamorous setting to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one in style.

Beyond seasonal celebrations, Angsana Velavaru offers a variety of activities to cater to guests of all ages and interests. Water-sports enthusiasts can indulge in jet-skiing, windsurfing, kayaking, and paddle-boarding. For those seeking to explore the underwater world, the resort’s dive center provides unforgettable diving experiences in the Maldives, one of the world’s premier diving destinations.

Visitors can also participate in the Marine Lab Coral Planting initiative, contributing to the conservation of the island’s vibrant coral reefs. This hands-on activity educates guests about coral restoration and offers a meaningful way to engage with the Maldives’ natural beauty.

Cultural immersion is a cornerstone of the Angsana Velavaru experience. Guests can partake in traditional Maldivian activities such as palm weaving, cooking classes, and enjoying a Boduberu performance. The Let’s Talk Local session provides an intimate opportunity to learn about the Maldives’ history and culture.

Families are well catered for, with a variety of activities tailored to younger guests, including arts and crafts workshops and creative sessions designed to entertain and inspire. Adults seeking relaxation can unwind at the resort’s luxurious spa, which offers a range of treatments to rejuvenate the body and mind. Meanwhile, diverse dining options ensure every meal is a celebration of international and local flavours.

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Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s latest beachfront retreats on Dream Island

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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.

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Celebration

Disco fever takes over Amilla Maldives this festive season

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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.

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