Featured
Celebrate ‘Ocean Odyssey’ festive season at Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi
Fairmont Maldives, Sirru Fen Fushi, a five-star luxury resort, presents ‘Ocean Odyssey,’ a thoughtfully crafted festive programme of extraordinary moments and one-of-a-kind celebrations. Discerning guests will experience the grandest of feelings during the most awaited season of the year, with culinary excellence, enchanting adventures, eco-inspired activities, immersive entertainment, and rejuvenating wellness journeys.
Nestled in one of the country’s largest lagoons, the resort with its 120 all-pool villas, whether on the beach, over the turquoise waters, or amidst the lush tropical jungle, will bring new meaning to the holiday season with the ‘Ocean Odyssey’ festive theme. Designed to captivate the essence of the Indian Ocean and its allure, guests can enjoy a myriad of experiences surrounding the ‘Secret Water Island,’ such as a visit to the Coralarium, the world’s first and only underwater art gallery and coral regeneration project, dive and snorkelling excursions in the 9km-long house reef, as well as the exploration of the crystal-clear lagoon with adrenaline-filled activities such as catamaran sailing, kayaking, and paddle boarding.
Guests can kick off the festivities with the annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony on 20 December 2022, followed by exceptional culinary journeys across the resort’s restaurants and bars. They can savour flavours from around the world at the all-day dining restaurant, Raha Market, indulge in Asian favourites at the Japanese restaurant, Kata, enjoy an incredible seafront dining experience at Azure, and take advantage of the many cocktail and champagne-sipping opportunities at Onu Onu.
Experience-seeking and eco-conscious travellers are invited to catch a glimpse into the thriving oceanic life that dwells beneath and above the surface with the resident Marine Biologist, who will be on hand to connect them with the aquatic environment through the unique Turtle Ranger Programme and guided tours. They can also visit the Sustainability Lab – the first of its kind in the Maldives – a hub of eco-education where guests can learn how to recycle and create bespoke souvenirs from plastic waste. Furthermore, guests can indulge in the archipelago’s most luxurious glamping adventure with a stay in the new Beach Tented Villas, allowing them to be at one with nature and learn more about the island’s innovative sustainability endeavours.
As part of its ongoing commitment to ensure that younger guests stay inspired and curious, the Kids’ Club offers an exciting line-up of festive-inspired activities, such as arts & crafts sessions, educational workshops, island treasure hunts, and dance classes.
To help guests keep fit and active, former Spanish professional tennis player Nicolas Almagro will offer one-to-one coaching sessions on the resort’s jungle court. For those searching for a calmer adventure, the time-honoured traditions at the Willow Stream Spa are sure to relax and rejuvenate. Visiting certified Reiki Master, Marketa, on the other hand, will guide guests on their personal journey and help them enhance their overall sense of mindfulness, health, and well-being.
From 27 December 2022 through 3 January 2023, adventure-seeking guests will have the opportunity to join Big Game Fishing expert, Ben Jones, on one of the guided Big Game Fishing excursions to experience the thrills and wonder of an authentic Maldivian escapade. The trip takes them on an exhilarating pursuit of some of the fastest and largest fish species in the tropical waters of Shaviyani Atoll.
Also joining all the festivities is the accomplished Michelin Star Chef, Mickael Viljanen, who will delight avid gourmands with an inspiring medley of flavourful and beautifully presented dishes at Azure from 29 December 2022 through 1 January 2023.
The grandest of celebrations will come alive on New Year’s Eve. Fairmont Maldives, Sirru Fen Fushi will host ‘Ocean Disco’ – an immersive night of bespoke dining, wining, and entertainment, including spectacular performances that pay tribute to the iconic music of Elton John and Donna Summers, the Queen of Disco. The resort will also welcome multi-skilled performers from Black Rabbit Projects, who will surprise guests with extraordinary entertainment and cinematic experiences and bring this season’s festive theme of ‘Ocean Odyssey’ to life.
When the clock turns to midnight, the resort’s Main Beach will set the stage for a memorable after-party, with a mesmerising fireworks show, eclectic beats, live music, and a vibey atmosphere.
Stay in the Beach Sunrise Villa starting from $2,500 per night based on two people sharing, including daily breakfast. Book before 15 December to take advantage of the offer (terms and conditions apply). For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.fairmont.com/maldives/ or email MLD.Reservations@fairmont.com.
Featured
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives introduces summer offer across four island resorts
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives has introduced a summer offer aimed at travellers seeking longer stays across its four island resorts.
Guests booking stays of seven nights or more will receive complimentary return transfers for two people, while shorter stays will include complimentary one-way transfers. At participating resorts, up to two children under the age of 12 can also stay and dine free.
The offer includes savings on selected excursions and activities and is available for bookings and stays until 31 October 2026.
Guests who book directly through Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives will have access to additional benefits, including options to personalise their stays with beach dining, spa treatments and island activities. Members of the brand’s loyalty programme will receive further savings and earn double Discovery Dollars during the promotional period.
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives offers beachfront accommodation, a range of activities and speedboat transfers from Malé. Its accommodation and family-focused programmes are designed for guests seeking a combination of recreation and time together.
Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives provides accommodation, dining options, wellness services and water-based activities within an island setting. The resort caters to couples, families and travellers visiting the Maldives for the first time.
Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives, located across two islands in Meemu Atoll, is positioned for couples and honeymooners. Guest experiences include sunset dining, spa treatments and access to the surrounding lagoon.
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon caters to divers and snorkellers through its house reef, marine life and access to dive sites. The resort provides direct access to underwater experiences in the Indian Ocean.
The summer offer provides savings of up to 65% across Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives’ four properties.
Awards
JOALI Maldives wins two honours at Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia
JOALI Maldives has been recognised in two categories at the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia 2026, receiving honours among the Best Resorts in the Maldives and for the Most Outrageous Villa.
The recognition reflects the resort’s Creative Living philosophy, which brings together art, nature, wellbeing, sustainability and hospitality within the guest experience.
Located in Raa Atoll, approximately 45 minutes by seaplane from Malé, JOALI Maldives opened as the Maldives’ first art-immersive luxury resort. Art installations, dining experiences, wellbeing programmes and accommodation are integrated across the island as part of its approach to resort living.
The property features 73 beach and overwater villas and residences, positioned across the island and above the Indian Ocean. The accommodation has been designed to provide privacy, space and access to views of the surrounding environment.
Each villa combines contemporary design with materials including timber, marble, bamboo and terrazzo, as well as handcrafted finishes. Floor-to-ceiling glass provides views of the ocean, while private pools connect the indoor and outdoor spaces.
Artworks and design pieces are also incorporated into each villa, reflecting the resort’s Creative Living concept and extending the art experience into the accommodation.
Guests can choose from Beach Villas, Water Villas and multi-bedroom Residences, with options designed for couples, families and groups. The larger residences provide additional living areas, pools and facilities for guests seeking more space and privacy.
Each villa is supported by a dedicated Jadugar, a term used by the resort to describe its butler service. The Jadugar assists guests throughout their stay by arranging dining experiences, island activities, celebrations and other personalised services.
Guests are also provided with bicycles to explore the island’s pathways, gardens and viewpoints.
JOALI Maldives said the awards reflected the work of its team and the support of its guests, partners and wider community. The resort also said it would continue developing experiences focused on creativity, wellbeing and connection.
The recognition adds to JOALI Maldives’ position within the Maldives’ luxury resort sector, where its art-led design and Creative Living philosophy form the basis of its guest experience.
Cooking
Michelin-Starred Chef Grégoire Berger to host dining experience at Lily Beach Resort & Spa
Lily Beach Resort & Spa has announced a culinary collaboration with Chef Grégoire Berger, chef and co-owner of the Dubai restaurant Kraken.
Known for progressive French cuisine influenced by the ocean, Berger has received a Michelin star in the Michelin Guide Dubai from 2022 to 2024. His restaurant has also been included among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, while his work has received recognition through several international culinary awards.
Berger’s approach draws on the sea as a source of ingredients, ideas and presentation. His menus combine French culinary techniques with marine influences, with each dish developed around a narrative connected to the ocean.
As part of his visit to Lily Beach in August 2026, Berger will host a fine-dining dinner for a limited number of guests. He will also introduce a signature dish at AQVA Bar & Restaurant during the collaboration.

The programme forms part of Lily Beach’s efforts to expand its culinary offering and introduce visiting chefs and dining concepts to guests in the Maldives.
Located in South Ari Atoll, the resort will provide guests with an opportunity to experience Berger’s cuisine within its all-inclusive hospitality concept. The collaboration will combine his Michelin-recognised approach with the resort’s existing food and beverage programme.
Lily Beach Resort & Spa has established its hospitality offering around its premium all-inclusive model, supported by a range of dining venues. Its restaurants offer overwater dining, international buffet selections, seafood and Asian-inspired dishes.
The resort’s culinary programme is supported by the Platinum Plan, an all-inclusive package that includes dining experiences, a selection of wines and spirits, excursions and personalised services.
Through the collaboration with Berger, Lily Beach aims to add another dining experience to its guest programme while continuing to develop its position within the Maldives’ luxury hospitality market.
-
Family1 week agoTravel + Leisure honours Sun Siyam Iru Fushi as no. 2 family resort
-
Action1 week agoNova Maldives celebrates Women’s Dive Day with Zoona Naseem
-
News1 week agoGraduate, then dive in: Eri Maldives unveils summer getaway
-
Cooking1 week agoChef Jesper Koch to lead culinary collaboration at Vakkaru Maldives
-
Awards6 days agoWine Spectator recognises Ralu and Baani at Heritance Aarah
-
News6 days agoGrand Park Kodhipparu unveils connection-focused festive programme
-
News6 days agoDusit Thani Maldives refreshes villas, website and guest experience
-
Action4 days agoInterContinental Maldives elevates active luxury with new padel court


