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Nova Maldives crafts new wellness rituals inspired by traditional Maldivian medicine

Published

3 years ago

December 4, 2022

Nova Maldives has launched a selection of unique spa treatments based on the sacred wisdom of Traditional Maldivian Medicine. The distinctive healing rituals invite guests to form connection with nature and enhance their body and soul’s well-being.

Traditional medicine, or “Dhivehi Beys”, is integral to the Maldivian heritage. Over the centuries, Maldivian healers acquired medical knowledge from travellers who passed through the remote island country and adapted them using locally available and imported products. Dhivehi Beys are characterised by Arab, Persian, Indian, Chinese and even ancient Greek medicinal traditions, and carries with them the secrets about the benefits of natural cycles of nature, its environment, as well as the healing and nourishing effects of the diverse flora and fauna in the nation.

The Drift Away Treatment helps balance the emotional state of mind, while also reviving the physical energy centreing around detoxifying the body and improving the blood flow. Inviting guests on a 90-minute journey of rejuvenation and healing, the treatment starts with a cleansing foot ritual. It is then followed by a short meditation and a full body massage focusing on the back. Will skilled expertise, Nova’s spa therapists will perform a combination of strokes and classical movements, relieving stress and sending the body into an immediate slumber with a noni leaves mask used for their backs. The evergreen leaves of the noni tree, also known as Indian Mulberry, are famous for their various healing properties. They have been used to tend to arthritis, abdominal swelling, headache, skin problems, and rheumatism. Guests are assured to feel like they are floating while getting spoiled from head to toe in the breathtaking Eskape spa suit.

The Maldivian Serenity Treatment, centred around coconut oil and the Dhiggaa plant, is rich in vitamin E and nourishes the skin. Starting the treatment with a cleansing foot ritual, two therapists will work on the guest synchronically to transport them to a realm of harmony and relaxation. The guests will breathe in the scent of coconut oil as their scalp is massaged. The benefits of the Dhiggaa plant, also known as sea hibiscus, extend to relieving stomach pain, fractured bones and sprained muscles, gonorrhoea, and fever. At the same time, the coconut oil used in the treatment works as an anti-wrinkle and antioxidant. With a trunk roller massage relaxing their muscles, releasing the tension of knots, and detoxifying their skin, guests will get a fully immersive experience that will put both their body and mind in a complete state of serenity.

Nova’s signature Tropical Body Polish Treatment allows guests to immerse themselves in deep relaxation. The journey will begin with steam melting the stress away as guests’ skin is cleansed and polished with a purifying scrub of coconut and morning glory leaves. This delicate flower that blooms in shades of blue, pink and purple, possesses impressive healing abilities. It is a blood purifier and an antioxidant that calms nerves, treats insect bites, reduces swelling and helps relieve joint pain. This remarkable flower also helps smoothen the skin by reducing the appearance of fine lines and scars. Nova’s signature scrub is used to remove dead skin cells and encourage new cells’ regeneration, leaving a smooth and responsive canvas ready to absorb the deeply nourishing coconut body oil. Treating the skin to an ultimate level of softness, the journey continues with a facial massage to balance the mood and to let go of all worldly cares. It concludes with a relaxing cranial head sacral therapy that relaxes guests’ bodies and renews their souls.

Perched overwater against the dream-like backdrop of azure blue of Nova’s lagoon, Eskape spa features three blissful treatment rooms. A Thai Sala, a relaxation room and a yoga pavilion, takes guests to a world of wellness experiences designed to reconnect and awaken their senses.

Book your good soul days and stay informed: www.nova-maldives.com. Get in touch with: hello@nova-maldives.com.

Featured

Amilla Maldives presents ‘Eid in Harmony’ island celebration

Published

3 days ago

March 11, 2026

m@ldives

Amilla Maldives is inviting guests to mark Eid al-Fitr with a series of island celebrations under the theme Eid in Harmony, bringing together cultural experiences, family activities and festive dining.

Eid, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, is widely celebrated across the Maldives as a time of gathering and shared moments. At Amilla Maldives, the occasion will be observed through a programme of relaxed events designed to reflect the atmosphere of island life and community.

During the celebrations, guests will be able to take part in cultural performances, family-friendly activities and island gatherings highlighting Maldivian traditions. These will include performances of Bodu Beru, interactive island games and creative workshops that offer visitors insight into local culture.

The resort will also present a range of culinary experiences for the occasion. Chefs will prepare festive dishes inspired by both regional and Maldivian flavours, with dining experiences ranging from relaxed daytime offerings by the beach to evening dinners served under the stars.

Set within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the celebrations are designed to offer guests an opportunity to experience the traditions and atmosphere of Eid in a natural island setting.

Guests interested in the full programme of celebrations can access the resort’s Eid 2026 brochure online.

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SO/ Maldives unveils three-day Easter celebration

Published

3 days ago

March 11, 2026

m@ldives

SO/ Maldives has announced a three-day Easter programme taking place from 3 to 5 April 2026, featuring dining experiences, sunset gatherings, beach cinema and family activities across the island.

Set against the backdrop of the Maldives’ lagoon waters, the programme is designed to combine culinary events, music and leisure activities, offering guests a variety of experiences over the Easter long weekend.

The celebrations begin on Good Friday, 3 April, with the Ocean Harvest & Wine Soirée at Citronelle Club. The event features a five-course seafood dinner inspired by South African cuisine, accompanied by a curated wine pairing hosted by a master sommelier. The experience will be limited to 20 guests.

Later in the evening, entertainment will continue at Lazuli Beach Club, where the Vintage Nights at Lazuli event will feature curated wines and DJ music in a beachfront setting.

On Saturday, 4 April, guests will be invited to a Golden Hour Sundowner at the Pavilion Bar, where cocktails will be served during sunset overlooking the lagoon.

The evening will continue with the Starlit Holy Saturday Feast at Lazuli Beach Club, featuring a three-course dinner served outdoors. The programme will conclude with an open-air beach cinema experience, where guests can watch a film on the beach accompanied by popcorn and refreshments.

The programme concludes on Easter Sunday, 5 April, with a series of events along the island’s shoreline. The evening begins with Easter Bloom Cocktail Hours, offering floral-inspired drinks prepared with fruit and botanical ingredients.

The highlight of the celebrations will be the Easter Grand Beach Barbecue at Citronelle Club, featuring grilled dishes served in a seaside setting. The event will also include live saxophone performances and music.

Throughout the weekend, children will have access to a dedicated programme at The Nest, where activities will include Easter crafts, egg decorating, dance sessions and an Easter egg hunt. Additional activities such as face painting, piñata games and creative workshops will also be available.

Through its Easter programme, SO/ Maldives aims to provide a mix of dining, entertainment and family-friendly activities, offering guests the opportunity to mark the holiday while enjoying the island setting.

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Oaga Art Resort brings back Kula Kula Festival with global influences

Published

4 days ago

March 10, 2026

m@ldives

Kula Kula Festival will return for its fourth edition at Oaga Art Resort from 20 to 25 March, bringing together cultural influences from the Maldives, Brazil and India in a programme centred on art, music and community.

The festival combines the traditions of Eid al-Fitr, the vibrant spirit of Brazilian Carnaval, and the colours of Holi, creating a multi-cultural celebration that highlights performance, heritage and shared experiences.

The programme begins with Eid-related traditions, inviting guests to take part in cultural rituals and performances inspired by Maldivian heritage. The festival continues its collaboration with Kiyavahi Culture Studio, which will present workshops, demonstrations and interactive installations showcasing traditional Maldivian crafts and storytelling.

Guests will have opportunities to explore cultural practices such as Fangi Viyun (thatch weaving), Roanu Veshun (coir rope making), Kasabu Gethun (lacquer work) and Thundu Kunaa Viyun (mat weaving). Through these sessions, participants will also learn about the history and cultural significance of these crafts.

The festival begins with Eid Malhi, a bonfire lit by Oaga’s Rahvehin on 19 March to mark the sighting of the new moon. This is followed by Eid prayers and Eid Sai, a traditional breakfast at Kaa Kada. Throughout the day, guests can take part in activities such as Eid Kulhivaru beach games and Fen Kulhi, which combines water and colour play. The Maali Parade, inspired by Maldivian folklore, will lead guests to a high tea gathering at Raa Baa Beach featuring live performances and traditional attire experiences.

Live entertainment forms a central part of the festival programme, with performances from local and international artists. Guests will experience Boduberu fusion performances by Nuff and Ciam, storytelling rhythms by the Harunulaa Boduberu Group, and electronic music performances by Digital Flock during the Kula Kula Rave.

Dhivehi music will also be featured through performances by solo artist Naffah, while storyteller Amney will share Maldivian folklore through music sessions at O’Fire.

Indian classical music will be represented by sitar player Kalyan, who will perform across multiple sessions during the festival. Brazilian performer Alikko will introduce elements of Brazilian culture through fire shows and performances accompanying dining experiences at Kaa Kada.

Dining experiences will also highlight cultural diversity, with lunch and dinner services featuring themed presentations such as Eid Jaafaiy and Indian-inspired cuisine prepared in collaboration with Kalyan.

Evening programmes will include live music, fire performances, communal barbecues and a collaborative live art and music showcase titled Unethical Projection, featuring both resident and guest artists.

For the first time at the festival, Brazilian Carnaval will be incorporated into the programme. The segment will feature a Brazilian-inspired buffet at Kaa Kada, performances by Alikko and a Kula Kula Rave hosted by Digital Flock.

The final days of the festival will bring together Maldivian, Indian and Brazilian cultural influences under the theme Made of Many, Felt as One. Activities will include music sessions, collaborative performances featuring the Rav drum with Nuff, and storytelling by Amney.

The festival will conclude with a Deserted Day Picnic at Hastheem Sandbank, where guests can enjoy watersports, snacks and DJ sets by Afruh.

Through its programme of performances, cultural workshops and shared experiences, the Kula Kula Festival continues to position itself as a platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange, reflecting the creative identity of Oaga Art Resort.