Insiders
Centara’s Latest Maldives Resort to Offer Unmatched Convenience and Privacy
Maldives Promotion House – Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa is located on the island of Giraavaru in North Male Atoll, about 15 minutes by speedboat from Malé and Ibrahim Nasir International Airport.
While Centara already has one resort, Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa, the opening of the second Centara Hotels & Resorts property in the Maldives late this year will allow Thailand’s leading operator of hotels to offer secluded holidays on an island near the capital island of Male to an adult-focused market.
The resort, which is owned and operated by Centara, represents an investment of 54 million USD and completely replaces one of the earliest Maldives resorts that had been built on the island more than thirty years ago.
Design is by Space Architects, who have conserved the natural beauty of the 3-hectare island, with its dense green interior and fine white sandy beach, and have scattered the beachside and over-water villas unobtrusively amongst the greenery to provide privacy for guests.
“For such natural beauty to be available just minutes away from Male itself, where guests can easily go for sightseeing and shopping, really is a unique opportunity to design a resort that is in complete harmony with its surroundings,” senior vice president for sales and marketing at Centara Hotels & Resorts, Chris Bailey said.
“It will, for many people, be the ultimate getaway and retreat – a retreat from city life, and a celebration of nature. The design concept reflects this, using flowing and natural forms derived from the trees, vegetation and sea shells.”
Giraavaru was used by a local tribal community called Giraavaru Meehun, or Giraavaru people, before it was first developed as a resort in the late 1970s. The Giraavaru people have their own distinctive culture and style, and this will also be a feature of the resort, including an adaptation of the traditional Giraavaru costume for the staff uniforms.
“We feel the cultural aspect requires respect, and also that it will stimulate interest amongst our guests, who will be primary adults,” Bailey said.
There is a large lagoon to one side of the island which is good for swimmers and for snorkelling, and there are some excellent dive sites including Giraavaru Cave, about 10 minutes away, and Lion Head and Kuda Haa, both within 20 minutes distance. A PADI diving school and water sports centre are part of the new resort.
The Republic of Maldives marked the overseas debut of Centara Hotels & Resorts in December 2009, and the success of that venture, which is also owned by Centara, has led to the investment in the second Maldives resort.
Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading operator of hotels, with 38 deluxe and first-class properties covering all the major tourist destinations in the Kingdom. A further 17 resorts in the Maldives, Philippines, Vietnam, Bali Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Mauritius Indian Ocean, brings the present total to 55 properties. Brands and properties within Centara ensure that specific categories such as couples, families, individuals, and meetings and incentives groups will all find a hotel or resort that is appropriate to their needs. Centara operates 25 branches of Spa Cenvaree, one of Thailand’s most luxurious and innovative spa brands, and the company’s Kids’ Club is available at all the family-friendly resorts to ensure that the youngsters and teens are taken care of. Centara Hotels & Resorts also operates two state-of-the-art convention centres in Bangkok, and one in Udon Thani in northeastern Thailand.
News
The Nautilus Maldives welcomes Christopher Terry as Executive Chef
The Nautilus Maldives has announced the appointment of Christopher Terry as their new Executive Chef. Chef Terry brings a wealth of experience and a global flair to the resort’s diverse dining experiences.
A native of Antigua and Barbuda, Chef Terry’s culinary skills encompass a wide range of cuisines, including Mediterranean, French, Caribbean, European, and Asian. This makes him a perfect fit for The Nautilus, which is known for its eclectic and unique dining options.
Throughout his 15-year career, Chef Terry has honed his craft at some of the world’s most prestigious luxury resorts, including Aman, Rosewood Resorts, and Sandals Resorts. His exceptional talent has been recognized with numerous awards, such as the Artisan Award at the Antigua & Barbuda National Youth Awards and Young Chef of the Year by the Antigua Hotel’s and Tourist Association.
Chef Terry believes in using the finest ingredients, with a focus on fresh, local produce. His culinary philosophy aligns perfectly with The Nautilus’s commitment to providing exceptional experiences and unforgettable taste journeys for its guests.
Under Chef Terry’s leadership, guests at The Nautilus can expect to explore the following:
- Zeytoun: Offering a focus on the aromatic herbs and spices of the Mediterranean.
- Ocaso: Blending Japanese cuisine with a modern Latin American twist.
- Thyme: Featuring comforting international cuisine, with flavors ranging from Asian to Mediterranean.
Chef Terry’s creations promise to be a reflection of pure, high-quality ingredients, thoughtfully paired for a delicious dining experience.
Equipped with a degree in Culinary Arts and a Wines and Spirits certification, Chef Terry brings a spirit of curiosity and a passion for culinary innovation to The Nautilus. Inspired by the Maldives’s rich natural bounty and pristine ingredients, he aims to elevate The Nautilus’s menus with his signature Caribbean-infused creations.
To discover the epicurean journeys available at The Nautilus Maldives, visit www.thenautilusmaldives.com.
News
Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort appoints Thaaif Ahmed appointed as Director of Sales & Marketing
Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort, part of Minor Hotels, has announced the appointment of Thaaif Ahmed as the Director of Sales & Marketing, effective 1 May 2024.
Thaaif brings nearly two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, with a significant portfolio of roles within Minor Hotels. His career includes serving as the Director of Sales at NH Collection Maldives, where he played a pivotal role in driving revenue growth and fostering strategic partnerships.
Throughout his tenure, Thaaif has demonstrated exceptional leadership capabilities and a profound understanding of the industry landscape. His strategic prowess and collaborative approach have consistently delivered outstanding results, making him a respected figure within the organisation.
In his previous capacity as Cluster Director of Sales, overseeing Anantara Dhigu Resort Maldives, Anantara Veli Resort Maldives, and Naladhu Private Island, Thaaif contributed to the success and growth of the brand.
As he assumes the role of Director of Sales & Marketing at Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort, Thaaif is poised to leverage his wealth of experience and expertise to drive brand positioning, enhance revenue streams, and elevate the overall guest experience. His appointment underscores the resort’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the hospitality sector.
Please join Stuart De San Nicolas, Cluster General Manager of Anantara Kihavah, Avani+ Fares and NH Collection Havodda plus Riaan Drever, General Manager of Fares in congratulating Thaaif on his well-deserved promotion. We also express our gratitude to Paul Counihan, for his support during our pre-opening and opening stages. Paul will transition to focus on Anantara Kihavah, our sister property in Baa Atoll, while Thaaif assumes leadership at Avani+ Fares Maldives.
Set on the natural tropical island of Fares and surrounded by the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve’s deep blue hues, the resort offers an abundance of aquatic adventures as well as pristine sandy beaches for pure relaxation. With 176 stylish villas, pavilions, and studios, Avani+ Fares welcomes couples and honeymooners, as well as families and groups, with a focus on multi-room accommodation.
News
Seaside Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives appoints Warren Moore as Executive Chef
Seaside Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives has announced the appointment of Warren Moore as the resort’s new Executive Chef.
Chef Warren Moore hailing from South Africa, brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise, having earned his Culinary Degree at City and Guilds Culinary Institute. With over 25 years of distinguished service in the Restaurant and Hospitality Industry, Chef Warren is poised to elevate the culinary offerings at Seaside Finolhu to new heights.
In his previous role, Chef Warren served as Executive Chef at Jawakara Maldives, where he showcased his culinary prowess and leadership skills. Prior to that, he spent seven years honing his craft within various properties of the esteemed Crown and Champa Resorts Group. His culinary journey has taken him across continents, including stints in South Africa, Mozambique, London, and the United States.
As the Executive Chef at Seaside Finolhu, Chef Warren will oversee all culinary operations, ensuring the highest standards of hygiene and food quality are maintained. His responsibilities include supervising daily kitchen operations, managing food production, and leading kitchen staff with a focus on excellence and innovation.
“We are thrilled to welcome Chef Warren Moore to our team at Seaside Finolhu,” said Steven Phillips General Manager of Seaside Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives. “His extensive experience and passion for culinary excellence will undoubtedly enhance the dining experience for our guests and further solidify our reputation as a gastronomic heaven in the Maldives.”
With Chef Warren Moore at the helm, Seaside Finolhu looks forward to delivering unforgettable culinary experiences that celebrate the rich flavours of the Maldives and beyond.
-
News1 week ago
Solar eclipses diesel at Patina Maldives
-
News1 week ago
Embark on Unforgettable Maldives Escapade with ‘Family Fun Summer’ Package
-
News1 week ago
Never Before Festival at Cocoon Collection: Revolutionary dancing experience in Maldives
-
News1 week ago
Marriott inspires families to discover Maldives with new Family Summer Packages
-
News1 week ago
Villa Park Awarded Top Hotel Partner 2023 by Schauinsland Reisen
-
News1 week ago
Solo travelling South Ari Atoll with Nova Maldives
-
Awards1 week ago
Angsana Velavaru honoured with acclaimed recommendation on HolidayCheck 2024
-
News1 week ago
Dive deeper into Maldivian wellbeing with Xubba visiting Oaga Art Resort’s Hoba Spa