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Escape to kaleidoscope of fun on Seaside Finolhu’s island playground

Published

3 years ago

November 29, 2020

With its focus on fun activities and a relaxing ambiance, Seaside Finolhu has long modelled itself as an island playground. Now, as the luxury Maldivian resort reopened on November 1, its playful nature has been taken to a whole new level in an extensive redesign project.

Characterised by a mesmerising mélange of colours and symmetrical patterns in harmony with the island’s vibrant natural beauty, the resort’s new kaleidoscope concept is a stunning representation of joy and wonder designed to evoke a feeling of escaping time.

Taking its name from the local word for “sandbar”, Finolhu is everything that a tropical island paradise should be.

The pristine natural beauty of the island is manifest in a tantalising display of striking hues, from its stunning white sand beaches and swaying green palms, to the vibrantly coloured flora and fauna of the coral reefs beneath the azure waters of the Indian Ocean beyond the island’s cyan lagoon.

At every step, the wonders of nature are front and centre on what, after all, is widely regarded as one of the finest island resorts in the UNESCO-protected Baa Atoll, famous for its mesmerising diversity of reefs, submerged cliffs, and underwater hills known locally as “thilas”.

While Finolhu is just one of many tropical island paradises in the Maldives archipelago, it is perhaps the resort’s uncanny ability to complement the guest experience with design elements that form a harmonious balance between natural wonder and stylish luxury that set it apart.

As part of the exclusive Seaside Collection, characterised by prestigious locations, personalised service, gourmet gastronomy, unique architecture and distinctive design concepts, Finolhu embodies exceptional quality and inspiring style in a mindful approach to design.

In recognition of Seaside Finolhu’s commitment to sustainable style and holistic hospitality concepts, it recently claimed the honour of being accepted as a member of the Design Hotels group, the globally-recognised resource for curated design-led hotels.

Central to the transition from luxury island resort to proud member of the exclusive Design Hotels portfolio was an extensive redesign project led by award-winning London-based design studio Muza Lab.

In overseeing Seaside Finolhu’s transition, the biggest challenge faced by the design team at Muza Lab was in determining how to develop the resort’s distinctive barefoot chic atmosphere without compromising the island’s natural splendour.

Seeking to combine Maldivian-inspired touches with ultra-luxury modernity against the backdrop of a stunning tropical island, Muza Lab formulated a kaleidoscope theme for the resort’s redesign.

The kaleidoscope concept celebrates the vibrant character of the island.

More than just the vivid colours found in the island’s lush natural landscape, this vibrancy extends into the resort’s playful sense of entertainment, the diverse aromas and flavours that invite indulgence in its themed restaurants, the sense of adventure that inspires exploration above and below the water, and even the quiet moments of solitude that create moments of blissful contemplation.

Staying true to Seaside Finolhu’s adventurous identity, the resort’s exciting new design treats fun-loving guests to vibrant pops of colour and a playful use of patterns.

Throughout the resort, the bold new design concept unleashes a kaleidoscope of colours inspired by the vibrant natural hues of the island’s stunning flora, fauna, sunsets and seascapes.

Showcasing contemporary design elements with a distinct organic edge, the resort’s makeover applies natural materials such as rope, clay and timber to create an engaging visual harmony with the island’s natural landscape.

The rustic textures of woven textiles, basketwork, lanterns and origami invite moments of discovery, wonder and delight, while handmade tiles and handblown coloured glass from Turkey, chandeliers and basket work from South Africa, and timber artwork from Java add artisanal uniqueness.

While guests love the unique sense of fun, adventure and freedom they get from staying at Seaside Finolhu, they also expect the finer comforts of a luxury resort.

Nowhere has this balance between escapism and modernity been more perfectly achieved than in the resort’s 125 stylish villas, 75 of which have their own private pools.

Contemporary luxury meets stylish design where the aesthetic beauty of bespoke artworks are complemented by top-of-the-range entertainment systems in private spaces that offer both extravagant indulgence and blissful seclusion.

Despite its makeover, Seaside Finolhu remains an island playground waiting to be explored.

Its four beachside dining venues serve a variety of exciting flavours, while the fully-equipped spa and wellness facility offer holistic programmes and treatments.

From romantic beach strolls to diving with whale sharks, the wide-range of activities available are as engaging as the stunning scenery of the coral reefs beneath the waves.

Treat yourself to a trip to Seaside Finolhu and escape into a kaleidoscope of fun on a Maldivian island playground.

Finolhu was opened in June 2016 and consists of four islands with long beaches. It has 125 beachfront and overwater villas — more than half with private pool — and four restaurants.

While popular with honeymooners, the extensive resort is also very family-friendly, with a kids’ club, plenty of activities and famous for its entertainment.

Owned and managed by Seaside Collection, a Europe-based hotel group with an exclusive portfolio of high-end resorts and city hotels, Seaside Finolhu Maldives is a luxury island resort.

“Finolhu”, which is a direct translation of “sandbank” in Dhivehi is located in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives.

For bookings and more information about Seaside Finolhu, visit www.finolhu.com.

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Unwind and Explore: Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa Invites Families to a Rejuvenating Summer Escape

Published

3 days ago

May 3, 2024

Maldives Insider

Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa, an all-pool villa haven nestled amidst the breathtaking natural seascapes of the Indian Ocean, invites families to embrace the joy of relaxation and the spirit of adventure this summer with a slew of experiences designed to inspire playful discoveries and foster tranquil reconnections with the mind and body.

Fun for All Ages

Budding adventurers and creative little spirits alike can discover new adventures at Krakengiri Kids’ Club, one of the largest kids’ clubs in the Maldives. Led by a multilingual team of certified childcare professionals, young guests can engage in an exciting array of daily activities that combine learning and play.

Upstairs, Re:Fuel, a rooftop lounge for teens, hosts engaging milkshake-making workshops and fun family movie nights under the starry Maldivian sky.

In June, the resort offers a Holiday Camp for teens, who can personalize their wellness experiences as follows:

Pick up new sports such as tennis, pickleball, and badminton on the multi-purpose court with the hotel’s resident Sports Animator
Work out with a personal trainer at the fitness center
Try aerial yoga for beginners, yoga for better sleep, breathwork, and meditation with the resident yoga practitioner
Enjoy a restorative massage in the overwater treatment villas of Amingiri Spa.

The experience is available at USD 150++ per person for a combination of any two 30-minute sessions.

Restful Retreats

Amingiri Spa introduces Water Connect, a private in-villa pool experience guided by a certified water shiatsu specialist. The gentle movements and targeted massage techniques melt away tension and create a deeply relaxing sensation akin to being cocooned in the womb. The serene escape is available between 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm at USD 150++ for 30 minutes.

Starting in June, guests can indulge in a brand-new Sleep Wellness menu designed to ease the mind and body into a state of deep and rejuvenating slumber. Guests can choose to unwind with a calming signature massage on the spa’s Skye Deck, bask in the timeless glow of an evening hammam ritual in the modern hammam room, or embrace tranquility with an in-villa session incorporating guided meditation, yoga, and breathwork.

Exclusive Offer

Guests who stay a minimum of four nights enjoy the added value of a half board meal plan and complimentary shared roundtrip speedboat transfers with Maldivian Bliss. This offer is available for stays through to December 20, 2024.

From May through to September 30, 2024, children stay and dine free: parents staying with two young children ages 11 years and below in an Overwater Suite with Pool and any of the Two-Bedroom Beach and Overwater Villas will also enjoy the half board meal plan and complimentary shared roundtrip speedboat transfers when booking Maldivian Bliss. Hilton Honors members enjoy full points for their stay. Terms and conditions apply.

Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa is part of Hilton Honors®, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 22 distinct hotel brands. Members who book directly on the hotel’s website will have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors app.

Featured

Maldives Madridistas: Patina Maldives, Fari Islands Nets Exclusive Football Camp Partnership with the Real Madrid Foundation

Published

2 months ago

March 14, 2024

Maldives Insider

Younger guests at Patina Maldives, Fari Islands can embrace new patterns of play this summer at an exclusive, Maldives-first Real Madrid Foundation football camp. From 4 July – 12 August, a youth coach will lead a comprehensive Real Madrid Foundation programme of daily soccer sessions for ages 5-9yrs, 10-14yrs, and 15-17yrs. The coach will be joined by an elite player ambassador from UEFA’s all-time no. 1 ranked football club toward the end of the programme.

This summer’s inaugural Patina Maldives x Real Madrid CF Foundation football camp is the first edition in an ongoing partnership, with additional future football camp dates to be confirmed. Led by a licensed Real Madrid Foundation coach, sessions will focus on developing each participant both individually and as part of the group, in order to ‘Play The Real Way’ – the training methodology that combines play, as well as sports values.

Sessions will take place on a new, purpose-built 6 a side astroturf pitch located near the Fari Marina Village at Patina Maldives.

All participants will receive an official camp football camp shirt, shorts, socks, drawstring bag, sweatbands, and cap; while those completing a minimum of four days’ coaching will also be presented with a Real Madrid Foundation participation certificate.

Real Madrid Foundation football clinics at Patina Maldives, Fari Islands are priced at USD195++ per child per session for guests of the resort. Bookings are also open to guests from neighbouring resorts, from USD250++ per child per session.

Rates at Patina Maldives, Fari Islands start from USD2,054 (approx. GBP1,620) per night based on two adults sharing a One Bedroom Pool Villa including daily breakfast, complimentary Guest Benefits, tax, and service. Terms and conditions apply.

For more information and reservations, please visit https://patinahotels.com/maldives or contact reservations.maldives@patinahotels.com. For more information on Pathways, please see here.

Featured

A blissful island Easter celebration at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives

Published

2 months ago

March 14, 2024

Maldives Insider

Experience unique and enriching getaways at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, as the luxury resort unveils exciting benefits for family getaway packages launching this season. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in the ethereal charm of the Maldives.

Nestled in the pristine Raa Atoll, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives seamlessly blends eco-friendly architecture with contemporary sophistication, complemented by the untouched, rugged beauty of the Raa Atoll. Situated amidst miles of untouched marine life, Alila Kothaifaru invites guests to reconnect with nature in the most extraordinary ways. With spacious villas and private pools, guests can truly experience the essence of a getaway where luxury and adventure harmoniously coexist.

Surrounded by azure skies and the turquoise waters of the Raa Atoll, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives offers an idyllic setting for a family escape during the Easter break. Here, guests can unwind in luxurious, nature-immersed surroundings, embark on exciting adventures together, and indulge in unforgettable wellness and culinary experiences.

During Easter weekend, Play Alila will delight young guests with a diverse range of festive island-inspired activities, including Easter egg decorating, arts and crafts, face painting, and more. For those seeking relaxation, Spa Alila offers enticing packages for parents and children to enjoy quality bonding time.

For the adventurous souls, do not miss the chance to join our Sparkling Underwater Egg Hunt. Hidden throughout one of our nearby dive sites, these eggs hold a special surprise. The lucky diver who discovers the egg with a unique mark will win an exclusive clutch made of Swarovski crystal valued at EUR 1,800!

Embark on an Easter journey to remember at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives. Explore all of the Easter events and activities at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives here

Family Getaway Package

Booking Period: Until 30 October 2024
Stay Period: Until 25 December 2024

Experience a family holiday rich with memorable moments. From nature walks to energetic beach activities, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives’ offerings extend to the whole family. Indulge in a host of fun adventures together, or relax while your children participate in creative indoor and outdoor activities. Enjoy special family welcome amenities upon arrival, return seaplane transfers, daily full-board meals, and a special offer on wellness treatments. Experience the beauty of our island while creating lasting memories to be treasured!

Stay with us during the Easter period from 25-31 March 2024 and be treated to a wide range of festive island inspired activities such as Easter egg decorating, arts and crafts, egg hunting around the island and underwater, wellness offering, and many more!

For more information and reservations, please contact kothaifaru@alilahotels.com or visit alilahotels.com