News

Hussain Shahid promoted as Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives’ Resort Manager

Published

11 months ago

June 20, 2023

After 14 years of loyal service, which commenced as Director of Human Resources back in 2009, Hussain Shahid has developed a broad cross-section of skills in hotel management, resulting in his promotion from Executive Assistant Manager to Resort Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, this month.

Speaking about his time at Kandooma, he reflects on the day he joined, saying it felt like home. Hotels were not in his blood. When Shahid was a teenager growing up in the Maldives, he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps into a Government role. He flashes a bright smile as he recalls, ‘I wanted to wear a tie and look smart, which I did for a couple of years!’ a contrast from the simple, impeccably presented linen shirt adorned with a polished name badge he is wearing today.

Shahid shares that after secondary school, when he formed a music group with friends, his relationship with resorts began, entertaining guests for a couple of years.

“This experience made me really happy. However, I didn’t realise at the time that resorts would become my career one day.” You can see the joy in his eyes that this memory evokes.

He explains that when he married and started a family, his government pay wasn’t enough to cover the bills, “I wanted more for my family and joined the hospitality industry. The pay was much better, and my professional experience landed me in a managerial position.”

Shahid attributes being able to help a guest achieve a ‘once in a lifetime’ dream to being critical to his job satisfaction, “When I know that I was part of a guest achieving their bucket list goal or fulfilling a dream, then that is when my day is done!”

He shares a similar philosophy about his team, “I take great pride in being able to shape and assist a team member to develop a career path and nurture their growth within our industry. Seeing my team succeed, build capability or achieve goals, together or as an individual, gives me inner satisfaction.”

Shahid shares that he derives a tremendous sense of motivation from guest feedback, “Looking back on memories of guests who visited us and their feedback plays a vital part in my daily routine. It inspires me to do better but also makes me smile when we do things right. This feedback and my genuine concern for people drive my passion for the industry.

Talking about the qualities needed to be a great leader, Shahid rates patience at the top of his list, “Patience is significant in everything I do and who I am as a leader. Respect, humility, staying calm, listening, and resilience are the other leadership traits that are core qualities of good leaders that I do my best to embrace.

Shahid shares that this promotion brings him closer to his ultimate career goal, “Being promoted to Resort Manager at Kandooma means more responsibilities and a greater focus on our culinary division. Being more accessible to the team, playing a key role in problem-solving and offering guidance on all operational aspects of the property.”

As a role model for many in the Maldives, Shahid shares his advice for young people looking to join the industry, “I have always believed that a person needs to possess two things to reach a leadership position in the hotel industry: one, an appropriate amount of education and two, experience.

“If I were young again, I would complete my high school education and perhaps a Diploma in Hospitality and start in a branded resort, local or international, to acquire a few years of experience. I would then embark on getting a university degree or an MBA to assist me in climbing the management ladder. I also think that an international stint is equally as important.”

His most important advice is, “Giving everything you’ve got to each job you fill is important for your career’s next steps. Long after you leave a job, others will remember the good or not-so-good things you’ve done and how professional you were. It goes a long way!”

Shahid has his sights set firmly ahead to achieve his goal to not only manage an operation but be responsible for the overall management of a property, “I want to be known as a great operational leader and one that can manage large-scale resort operations”. He will surely achieve this goal one step at a time in the not-too-distant future.

Located in the South Male atoll just 40 mins from the airport by boat, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is a beautiful island paradise. White sandy beaches, swaying coconut palms and turquoise waters form the backdrop for various leisure pursuits and some of the best diving in the Maldives. Guests can choose from Garden and Beach Villas, two-storey Beach Houses and the popular Overwater Villas. Families are well catered for with a choice of 2- and 3-bed villas, the Kandoo Kids’ Club, and its complete activities programme. Six food and beverage outlets ensure healthy appetites are satisfied and the flavours of the Maldives are explored. For guests who desire the ultimate relaxation, sun loungers and hammocks are located around the island. The Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala offers the ultimate tranquillity and escape for body and mind.

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News

Patina Maldives celebrates 3rd anniversary with community outreach and youth engagement

Published

16 hours ago

May 20, 2024

Maldives Insider

Patina Maldives, a luxurious resort nestled amidst the Fari Islands, recently celebrated its 3rd anniversary with a focus on community engagement and youth development. The festivities highlighted the resort’s dedication to positive social impact and its strong ties to the local community.

Welcoming the Next Generation

On Maldives Children’s Day, Patina Maldives hosted young students from Care Society, a local children’s NGO. The children, aged 4 to 16, participated in a variety of creative workshops led by the resort’s marine biologist and art specialists. These activities fostered artistic expression and environmental awareness, culminating in a heartwarming exchange of gifts.

Resort Manager Guillaume Verdier emphasized the importance of nurturing young minds: “We are committed to supporting the next generation and helping them explore their potential in a nurturing environment.”

Celebrating Achievements

Patina Maldives also hosted a celebratory cocktail party featuring music by local DJ Ra.ee and wine tasting from Château Minuty. The event showcased the resort’s dedication to sustainability and its commitment to providing guests with seamless transitions between relaxation, connection, and creativity.

A Commitment to Excellence

Patina Maldives, the flagship property of Patina Hotels & Resorts, remains dedicated to excellence and creating transformative hospitality experiences. The resort offers guests a variety of amenities, including luxurious villas, personalized wellness programs, interactive music events, and captivating culinary experiences.

Culture

Celebrate Eid Al-Adha in style at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives

Published

17 hours ago

May 20, 2024

m@ldives

Experience an unforgettable Eid al-Adha celebration at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives! Enjoy 4 nights in paradise, inclusive of seaplane transfers and half-board starting from USD 4976 for two adults. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the Maldives amidst pristine beaches and azure waters. Indulge in complimentary island experiences and revel in food, music, and captivating entertainment. Book now for an exquisite holiday experience!

Highlights of the Eid Celebration at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives:

Adha Feast: Guests are invited to indulge in a lavish feast at Seasalt restaurant featuring international dishes with a Maldivian touch, meticulously prepared by our expert culinary team. From traditional delicacies to modern interpretations, our Eid al-Adha feast promises a gastronomic journey like no other.
Local Music: Experience the enchanting melodies and rhythmic Boduberu beats of Maldivian music, performed live by Alila Kothaifaru Maldives’ talented Boduberu band. Let the soul-stirring tunes serenade you against the backdrop of our serene surroundings, creating an ambiance of pure bliss.
Special Kids’ Activities: Keeping the young members of the family entertained, we offer a range of specially curated activities designed to spark joy and creativity. From arts and crafts to interactive games, children will delight in an array of experiences tailored just for them.
Maldivian Badhiya Dance Show: Prepare to be captivated by a mesmerizing performance of the Maldivian Badhiya dance, a traditional art form that showcases the cultural heritage of the Maldives. Marvel at the graceful movements and vibrant costumes as our talented dancers transport you to a world of wonder and enchantment.

In addition to these exclusive festivities, guests will have the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Maldives through a variety of activities, including snorkelling, diving, and more. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable Eid al-Adha celebration.

Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to celebrate Eid al-Adha in the lap of luxury at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives. Book your stay now and embark on a journey of discovery and indulgence amid the breathtaking beauty of the Maldives with a 4-Night Special Offer. The offer includes return seaplane transfers for two adults and two children below 11 years of age, daily breakfast and dinner, and more.

For reservations and inquiries, please contact: kothaifaru@alilahotels.com.

News

Veligandu Maldives Resort Island’s reopening in Nov 2024

Published

22 hours ago

May 20, 2024

m@ldives

Crown and Champa Resorts (CCR) expands its presence in the luxury space with its latest opening, Veligandu Maldives Resort Island in the North Ari Atoll, just 20 minutes by seaplane or 60 minutes by speedboat from Malé International airport and welcoming guests of all ages, set for November 2024. Established in 1984 as one of the pioneering resorts in the Maldives, Veligandu has undergone an extensive renovation and is set to welcome guests from November 2024 in its 100 villas.

Veligandu will belong to CCR’s acclaimed luxury collection alongside Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, Hurawalhi Maldives Island Resort, Kagi Maldives Resort & Spa, and Jawakara Islands Maldives. There are no man-made islands in the CCR portfolio, and Veligandu is no exception, seamlessly blending natural beauty with secluded luxury and featuring already-established lush vegetation and flora unlike new islands that have been manufactured.

“Veligandu Maldives Resort Island will be an enchanting escape for guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the island, whilst indulging in world-class hospitality set against the backdrop of traditional Maldivian luxury.” Ahmed Shaheen, Chief Commercial Leader comments. “Many of our staff have been at Veligandu for several years, and whilst the resort has been closed for over a year for its extensive upgrade, they are already very much looking forward to welcoming guests again.”

Activities

Just a 10-minute boat ride away from the resort, Big Blue point is the most likely place for hammerhead shark sightings in the Maldives. The North Ari Atoll features 18 dive sites catering to divers of all levels and Veligandu’s Ocean Dive centre offers custom-made courses tailored to all guests. Snorkelling and diving excursions will also give guests the opportunity to encounter the diverse marine life of the North Ari Atoll including sea turtles, manta rays, and eagle rays. The inhouse marine biologist is on hand to enhance the guest experience by sharing a deeper understanding of the underwater world while contributing to the conservation of the coral reefs and marine ecosystems.

Veligandu is only the second resort in the Maldives to feature a pickleball court, as well as padel tennis and bicycles. The resort’s ocean water sports & excursions centre gives guests the opportunity to jet ski, parasail, kayak, and paddleboard, amongst many other activities.

For guests looking for a more relaxing experience, Veligandu also features an overwater Himeyn Spa with an extensive treatment programme and a yoga pavilion.

Fathuhulla Ibrahim, General Manager comments, “Veligandu Maldives – a natural haven! A home away from home from the moment of arrival on this pristine island until the moment of departure. A secluded destination where personalised experiences create everlasting memories.”

Accommodation

Veligandu Maldives Resort Island comprises 100 villas – these include 47 Ocean Pool Villas with a section of glass floor to the crystalline waters below; 28 Ocean Villas, 10 of which have a private jacuzzi; 16 Jacuzzi Beach Villas; and 9 Beach Villas. Each villa brings the outside in with interiors synonymous with the tropical surroundings.

Each villa is complete with a king-size bed, a private porch, and a 55- or 65- inch flat-screen TV to create a space accommodating for all guests for both privacy and togetherness.

Dining

Veligandu features a variety of cuisines suited to all tastes. Madivaru Teppanyaki Grill invites guests to indulge in Japanese-inspired teppanyaki cuisine with live, theatrical knifework and cooking, while Raalhu specialises in fine seafood – such as local lobster – paired with unparalleled ocean vistas. Guests can also enjoy buffet-style dining at the Dhonveli restaurant with a fusion of authentic Asian and international cuisines, or, for those guests opting for a lighter meal, Thundi’s snack menu offers tapas-style bites and salads. For a unique and immersive culinary experience, guests can also choose destination dining with a variety of spots at their disposal.

For the freedom to dine at any restaurant on the resort at leisure, the dine-around all-inclusive package takes away the constraints of reservation times. For full and half board guests, the resort’s new beverage plan gives guests complete access to all-inclusive drinks add-ons when needed.

All stays at Veligandu booked before August 31 will receive a 40% discount, allowing a villa for two people, inclusive of breakfast to be booked at US $550 per night.