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Exclusive hospitality, unforgettable experiences: Waldorf Astoria Maldives launches Ithaafushi – The Private Island for discerning travellers

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi on Tuesday unveiled the exclusive Ithaafushi – The Private Island, the largest Maldivian private island spanning 32,000 square metres in the heart of the Indian Ocean.
Anchored in the timely yet timeless ethos of the iconic Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts brand, part of Hilton’s Luxury Brands, Ithaafushi – The Private Island is the ultimate escape offering unparalleled levels of privacy and personalised service that create unforgettable experiences for guests seeking only the most prestigious and coveted accommodations.
“Ithaafushi – The Private Island is the crown jewel of our luxury portfolio in Asia Pacific, limitless in the level of privacy and unrivalled hospitality guests are promised,” Nils-Arne Schroeder, Vice President, Luxury & Lifestyle, Hilton, Asia Pacific, said.
“Designed for the most discerning of travellers, the Ithaafushi – The Private Island is the epitome of exclusivity, perfectly placed within one of the most inspirational destinations in the world where a dedicated team anticipates every need and delivers the brand’s elegant and effortless service at every turn.”
Every aspect of the island has been expertly choreographed, featuring a refined, yet modern design with a nod to Maldivian charm. Its name, ‘Ithaafushi’ is translated to mean ‘Pearl Island’ in Dhivehi, the local language of the Maldives, and represents the isle’s beauty and distinction.
“The launch of this unique resort offering represents a momentous milestone for the Waldorf Astoria brand and truly speaks to our commitment to redefining luxury hospitality around the world,” Schroeder added.

Effortlessly convenient
Located in close proximity to Male, guests can be escorted directly to Ithaafushi – The Private Island via a 40-minute ride on one of the resort’s six luxury Ithaafushi Princess yachts or via a 15-minute seaplane flight.
From the moment they land on this piece of undisturbed paradise, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi’s Personal Concierge team will ensure their every need is met with utmost discretion.
To explore beyond the private island estate, direct access to the main island is available via speed boat.
Where endless space abounds
The sprawling estate accommodates 24 guests across two elegantly designed villas and one sweeping four-bedroom residence, perfect for bonding with loved ones or celebrating life’s significant milestones with close friends.
A two-bedroom overwater villa promises a unique ocean experience with two spacious master bedrooms complete with double dressing rooms, indoor and outdoor rain showers, a shared living room, infinity pool and jacuzzi.
A separate three-bedroom beach villa, set within lush gardens and coconut palm canopies, has its own beach access and two swimming pools.
Those staying in the four-bedroom residence will enjoy two king bedrooms, two queen bedrooms, jacuzzies and an expansive common living area, all with direct access to the beach.
Surrounded by never-ending tropical greenery and white sand, guests will be greeted by a sense of complete calm and relaxation.
Every inch of the expansive paradise is waiting to be discovered, whether by a leisurely stroll along the meandering pathways set amidst lush palms, by bicycle or on one of the island’s buggies.

World-class dining
The private island’s dedicated culinary team promises to take guests on a diverse culinary journey, offering bespoke menus to be enjoyed in an array of extraordinary settings.
Guests can savour world-class dining for any occasion, from in-villa dining to special celebrations in the estate’s common living room, Haali (translated to mean ‘the nest’ in Dhivehi).
Guests who want to explore the resort’s various dining experiences can journey a short distance to the main island, where culinary innovation meets excellence with 10 specialty dining venues such as The Ledge and Terra.
Created by Dave Pynt, the culinary mastermind behind Singapore’s Michelin-starred Burnt Ends restaurant, The Ledge features an elevated Australian barbecue experience that can be savoured against the stunning backdrop of the Indian Ocean.
Guests can also enjoy the only private hand-crafted bamboo dining pods in the Maldives at Terra, located on the main island’s highest point for a unique gastronomic escapade.
Unforgettable experiences await
Ithaafushi – The Private Island holds no boundaries for guests with an appetite for adventure.
Beginning with the sparkling depths of the underwater world which is ripe for exploration, a plethora of watersports, diving activities and yacht excursions are available when the desire arises.
For those who wish to embark on an off-island experience, guests can castaway to a private sandbank in the middle of the ocean where they can indulge in a sunset dinner, a personal yoga session or simply take in the astonishing surroundings.
An abundance of options to soothe the body and mind await those wishing for some quiet time to rediscover and recharge.
A dedicated Wellness Concierge is on hand at the overwater spa to provide customised therapies catering to the needs of each guest, helping them reconnect with nature while indulging in a unique spa experience.
The meditation and yoga pavilion along with fully equipped gym offer magnificent ocean views, with personal training and classes upon request.
Guests will instantaneously be transported from everyday life as they unwind on one of the sea swings, take a moment to relax under the palm hammocks, sunken loungers, or bask in one of the five luxurious pools.
A myriad of entertainment choices are available in Haali, catering to guests of every generation.
The remarkable space features unblocked panoramic ocean views and extends across expansive indoor and outdoor areas, all set within a botanical sanctuary.
Guests can host memorable celebrations under the stars, watch a movie on the cinematic LED screen or bask in the 35-metre infinity pool.
Young visitors will be in a paradise of their own on the private island estate with a dedicated children’s pool and gaming area, or they can enjoy the Young Discovery Park at the main resort, which features a water recreation area and a variety of bespoke activities designed to capture the younger guests’ imagination.

Limitless possibilities
On this island, any desire can turn into reality. A team of Personal Concierges anticipates every need and takes the brand’s iconic True Waldorf Service to a new level, offering guests fully personalised service from day to night to guarantee curated experiences which will push the boundaries of imagination.
“We are committed to making Ithaafushi – The Private Island a highly sought-after, world-class destination for the privileged few,” Etienne Dalancon, the General Manager at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, said.
“Our dedicated team is devoted entirely to ensuring every moment is absolutely personalised, with exceptional service and unsurpassed attention to detail. We will pull out all the stops to ensure the most memorable stay for our guests, every single time.”
With the promise of ultimate exclusivity and every need being met with just a call, Ithaafushi – The Private Island is ideal for intimate group gatherings, from milestone celebrations with loved ones to an incentive trip planned for the most exclusive group of clients.
Ithaafushi – The Private Island also offers an idyllic stage for the ultimate dream wedding in paradise, with culinary offerings and experiences that are expertly tailored by the dedicated events team to create an iconic wedding with memories that last a lifetime.
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi operates with industry-leading standards of cleanliness and disinfection of the proprietary Hilton CleanStay programme, while adhering to the Maldivian health and safety guidelines.
From arrival to check in and throughout the entire stay, guests can experience an elevated standard of cleanliness and sanitisation which build upon Hilton’s already high standards of housekeeping and hygiene where hospital-grade cleaning products and upgraded protocols are currently in place.
Awards
OBLU SELECT Sangeli achieves Green Globe Gold Certification for fifth consecutive year

In 2025, traveling more sustainably continues to be a priority for most travellers, with 84% indicating its importance according to Booking.com’s 2025 Travel & Sustainability Report. Reflecting this growing eco-conscious mindset, OBLU SELECT Sangeli, an award-winning resort in the North Malé Atoll, has achieved the prestigious Green Globe Gold Certification. This marks five consecutive years of independently accredited sustainability excellence.
Green Globe, a globally recognised certification for sustainable tourism, evaluates environmental, social, and economic practices. To attain Gold status, a property must be certified for five consecutive years, demonstrating consistent improvement and responsible management across all operational areas.
The milestone was celebrated during a special island ceremony, where the Green Globe certificate was officially presented by Babli Jahau, General Manager at NSURE Private Limited. Jahau praised the team’s dedication and collaboration, noting, “Green Globe Gold is a true mark of excellence. OBLU SELECT Sangeli has demonstrated long-term commitment to protecting the Maldives’ fragile ecosystem while engaging both the island team and guests in meaningful sustainability initiatives.”
Jenni Hartatik, General Manager of OBLU SELECT Sangeli, emphasised the resort’s dedication to sustainability, stating, “At OBLU SELECT Sangeli, sustainability is an integral part of operations. From coral plantations and marine life sessions to reusable glass water bottles and gentle reminders for towel and linen reuse, every aspect reflects a commitment to sustainable hospitality. These thoughtful details not only create memorable stays but also promote eco-friendly practices.”
Central to the resort’s success is a holistic sustainability strategy underpinned by comprehensive policies. These include a broad environmental policy, an eco-conscious purchasing framework, landscaping practices favoring native plants and water conservation, and a biodiversity policy dedicated to preserving Sangeli’s unique island ecosystem. From energy reduction and waste diversion to flora and fauna protection, environmental stewardship is integrated into the resort’s daily operations.
The resort’s coral restoration project has successfully transplanted over 10,000 coral fragments through coral nursery and frame techniques. Despite bleaching events impacting the Maldives, Sangeli’s reefs displayed notable resilience, underscoring the effectiveness of ongoing restoration efforts and marine protection measures. Adding creativity to conservation, the resort’s ghost net upcycling initiative transforms discarded fishing nets into handmade bracelets, sold to guests, with proceeds supporting coral restoration efforts. This initiative combines environmental action with community-driven craftsmanship.
As part of the Sangeli Muraka Project, a state-of-the-art underwater camera now live-streams footage from a coral garden directly to guest villas. This immersive experience enables travellers to observe the dynamic reef ecosystem in real time, perfect for those who do not snorkel or dive. The footage is also featured during marine biology sessions and at the Muraka Marine Centre, fostering greater appreciation and engagement with ocean conservation.
The resort’s on-site biogas plant significantly contributes to sustainability by processing up to 1,000 kilograms of kitchen waste daily. This generates methane gas that supplies approximately 40% of the kitchen’s gas needs, while the compost byproduct is used to fertilise landscaped areas, creating a full-circle sustainability loop.
Located on the serene north-western tip of North Malé Atoll, OBLU SELECT Sangeli offers a tropical retreat for couples and families alike. This five-star resort combines natural beauty, contemporary villa design, and world-class dining through the all-inclusive Serenity Plan™, while being in proximity to some of the Maldives’ most vibrant diving and snorkelling spots. The resort stands as a testament to how travel and environmental responsibility can coexist, delivering unforgettable experiences with a lighter ecological footprint.
Featured
Global Wellness Day 2025 at Milaidhoo: journey of transformation and reconnection

On Global Wellness Day, celebrated on 14th June 2025, Milaidhoo invites guests to embrace a deeper sense of presence and harmony through its unique wellbeing philosophy rooted in ‘slow living.’ Reflecting the global theme of #ReconnectMagenta, which emphasises the importance of meaningful connections, Milaidhoo’s curated programme encourages guests to reconnect with themselves, the community, and the natural world in one of the most serene settings on Earth.
Situated in the heart of the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Milaidhoo is more than a boutique island retreat; it is a sanctuary for mindful rejuvenation. At Milaidhoo, wellness extends beyond the spa, permeating every detail of the guest experience — from barefoot living and soulful seclusion to fresh, nourishing cuisine and personalised wellness menus designed to support individual journeys of transformation.
Global Wellness Day 2025 at Milaidhoo will begin with a soul-awakening dynamic cleansing and yoga nidra session at 8:00 on an exclusive sandbank. This session offers guests a chance to silence external noise, realign with their inner rhythm, and reconnect with themselves amidst the Indian Ocean horizon.
At 11:00, guests will have the opportunity to participate in a coral plantation activity led by the resort’s marine biologist at the Ocean Stories Aquatic Centre. This interactive conservation initiative allows guests to give back to the local ecosystem and fosters an emotional connection to the broader community of life beneath the waves.
In the afternoon, from 16:00 to 17:00, guests can embark on a guided mindful walking experience around the island. This activity invites participants to reconnect with nature through observation and intention, with each barefoot step across soft sand and lush jungle paths revealing the healing power of nature.
At Milaidhoo, food is an integral part of wellness, with every dish curated with wellbeing in mind. Whether it is plant-based vitality bowls from the Chef’s Garden, fresh-caught seafood, or custom-designed menus tailored to individual health goals, guests are encouraged to nourish not only their bodies but also their senses.
Paul van Frank, Milaidhoo’s general manager, shared, “Our wellness ethos embraces the art of slowing down and living in the moment. Global Wellness Day is an opportunity to remind guests of the power of reconnecting with themselves, with each other, and with the beautiful world around them.”
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New era of luxury Wellness: Pilates Reformer arrives at St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

Setting a new standard in luxury wellness, the iconic St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is expanding its holistic offerings with the introduction of Pilates Reformer—a dynamic full-body workout renowned for its ability to lengthen, strengthen, and restore. Against the backdrop of turquoise waters and lush island serenity, guests will soon be invited to experience this transformative practice as part of a thoughtfully curated wellness journey.
With a growing global demand for integrative fitness experiences, Pilates Reformer has become a favourite for those seeking mindful movement and functional strength. Utilising a specially designed apparatus, the method elevates traditional Pilates through resistance-based training that enhances flexibility, balance, and core stability, while remaining gentle on the joints. At St. Regis Maldives, certified instructors will guide guests through personalised sessions tailored to a variety of goals, from rehabilitation and toning to posture improvement and stress relief.
The addition of Pilates Reformer complements the resort’s deep-rooted commitment to wellness, extending far beyond conventional spa treatments. Central to this philosophy is the overwater Iridium Spa—a serene sanctuary that offers more than indulgence. Guests can engage in Ayurvedic consultations, guided meditation, and holistic health screenings conducted by in-house wellness doctors. These screenings integrate Heart Rate Variability (HRV) technology with the ancient Ayurvedic technique of Nadi Pareeksha, a traditional pulse diagnosis, to identify imbalances and customise each guest’s path to optimal well-being.
Whether seeking deep relaxation, detoxification, or enhanced physical performance, the resort’s integrative approach ensures that every element of a guest’s stay contributes to overall wellness. Daily yoga, breathwork sessions, oceanfront meditation, and nutrition guidance are seamlessly woven into the island’s natural rhythm to create a truly transformative retreat.
Private Pilates Reformer classes will be offered to suit all experience levels, providing an inspiring way for guests to reconnect with both body and mind. With its iconic overwater villas, pristine beaches, and impeccable service, St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort continues to redefine luxury through the lens of well-being.
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