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Dusit Thani Maldives appoints new CSR manager
Dusit Thani Maldives on Mudhdhoo Island in Baa Atoll, the Maldives’ first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, has appointed sustainability specialist Federico Catalioto as the resort’s new Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager.
Catalioto, an Italian national, has extensive experience in leading CSR initiatives for hotels and resorts focusing on holistic sustainability.
After earning his double bachelor’s degrees in Hospitality Management from world-renowned hospitality institutes Glion and Les Roches in Switzerland, Catalioto began his career in the Sales and Marketing department of Marriott International.
Seeking to use his skills and expertise to make a positive difference in the lives of others, he went on to spend nine months working at Maringi Eco Resort, a vocational school on the Indonesian island of Sumba. In the dual roles of Resort Director and Front Office Instructor, he led hospitality training for underprivileged young adults and strengthened his knowledge and interest in sustainable practices in the luxury travel sector.
His work included reducing the resort’s carbon footprint, monitoring sourcing and consumption, and contributing to sustainability webinars organised by ‘The Long Run,’ an international programme under the Zeitz Foundation, a non-profit organisation that aims to achieve sustainability through the balance of conservation, community, culture and commerce.
To enhance his ability to drive sustainable change, Federico earned his MBA in Sustainable Hospitality Management at Sustainability Management School (SUMAS) in Switzerland, graduating with honours in 2020.
He now looks forward with much enthusiasm to starting his new life in the Maldives.
“My role at Dusit Thani Maldives provides me with a great opportunity to apply my overall knowledge and experience to contribute to the resort’s mission to have a positive impact on its community and the environment,” Catalioto said.
“I am honoured to be able to continue the resort’s existing projects, and I look forward to developing many new projects and ideas too.”
Catalioto’s first order of business will be to take over ongoing CSR projects. He will oversee in-house initiatives such as the hydroponic garden, recycling and waste management, and processes to reduce the use of chemicals and single plastic on the island.
He will also leverage his connections with SUMAS to invite students to design special projects for the island and activities focused on raising sustainability awareness among guests and employees.
Other initiatives he is leading are paper-making workshops, nature walks, marine presentations, local culture presentations and back-of-house tours for guests.
Federico also plans to introduce farm-to-table activities, hot composting processes, new standards for food waste reduction, coral reef restoration via line nurseries, responsible fishing practices (with Blue Marine Foundation), and other key activities to ensure Baa Atoll reconfirms its UNESCO world heritage certification.
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.
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.
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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