Lifestyle
Astronaut Tim Peake lands at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas Resort for stellar week of space talk and astronomy
One of the UK’s most famous astronauts, Tim Peake, is visiting Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas Resort, this November to host a special evening of conversation with guests and a separate talk about space dedicated to teens.
Situated in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Anantara Kihavah is home to the first overwater observatory in the Maldives and the most powerful telescope in the region. The private island resort’s location just above the equator means that both hemisphere’s stars are visible from the resort. Coupled with minimal light pollution and open skies, it is possible to see sights such as the pale-yellow rings of Saturn and the counter-rotating zones and belts of Jupiter and the Omega Centauri in the Milky Way making Anantara Kihavah the perfect partner for Tim’s talks and the ideal resort for astronomy and space enthusiasts.
A relaxed and intimate talk on Tim’s ‘Journey Beyond Earth” will take place early evening on Thursday, 2 November 2023 on Anantara Kihavah’s Sky Deck, an overwater observatory combined with a luxury cocktail bar. Accompanied by champagne and cosmic-inspired cocktails, Tim will act as a personal guide through life in space, offering a fascinating insight into what it’s really like to be an astronaut; from training to launch, spacewalk to re-entry and the wonders of how and why humans journey into space. With a maximum of 20 guests joining, it will be possible to ask Tim questions delving deep into life as an astronaut.
Tim’s talk will be complemented by a 60-minute stargazing session at Sky with Anantara Kihavah’s resident Sky Guru, Hammadh, at a time that suits guests during their holiday. A native Maldivian, Hammadh will take guests on a journey across both hemisphere’s stars and planets, clarifying what can be seen both with the naked eye and using the resort’s powerful research-grade 16” Meade LX200 telescope mounted on a super-giant field tripod within the custom-built Ash-dome observatory which has a viewing capacity of 30 million light years away.
As his stay falls over the half term period, he will also host a talk on exploring space, for teens aged between 10 and 18 years-old on Friday, 3 November 2023. A bestselling author, Tim also has a popular series of books for young teens including the ‘Swarm Rising’ books and ‘The Cosmic Diary of our Incredible Universe’. Accompanied by cosmic inspired mocktails and space inspired snacks and deserts, Tim will chat about his books and life as an astronaut, including becoming the first British astronaut to both visit the International Space Station and conduct a space-walk during his six-month mission, and also running the London marathon from space. He may even give a few tips to anyone hoping to following in his footsteps. This will be followed by a 60-minute stargazing session with Hammadh, tailored to younger guests.
Fitting in with the astrology theme, Anantara Kihavah’s Kid’s Club will have an intergalactic takeover from 1 to 5 November, with little guests taking part in space-inspired activities such as recycled rocket craft, space cookie making, planet puppet making and space painting using coffee.
‘Journey Beyond Earth: An Inspiring Conversation with Tim Peake’ will take place from 5.30 – 6.30pm on 2 November. Tickets cost 165 USD (approx £130) per person, for up to 20 people accompanied by champagne, cosmic-inspired cocktails and canapes, and includes a 60-minute stargazing session with Sky Guru Hammadh. For younger guests, tickets for ‘Exploring Space with Tim Peake’ cost 125 USD (approx £98) per person, for up to 10 guests with cosmic-inspired mocktails and snacks and including a stargazing session with Hammadh.
Villas at Anantara Kihavah start from £1,200 per night with breakfast and dinner. There are six restaurants and bars, each offering a distinctive setting, menu and ambiance, including SEA, the resort’s signature underwater restaurant and wine cellar.
Lifestyle
Hina Khan finds serenity at Joy Island Maldives
Renowned Indian actress Hina Khan recently embarked on a serene escape to the idyllic Joy Island Maldives. The actress, known for her captivating performances, shared glimpses of her luxurious holiday on her Instagram account, leaving her fans mesmerized.
Hina’s posts showcased the island’s pristine beauty and her own blissful moments. She captioned one post, “There she goes again 🤩 Spreading JOY at @joyislandmaldives @thecocooncollection #joyislandmaldives #thecocooncollection.”
Another post featuring a stunning dolphin encounter read, “Just as all the children in my family find comfort in my lap, I find it in the depth of the ocean and it seems that the dolphins agree with me 😬 What a show.. 🐬 Best Best dolphin cruise ever at @joyislandmaldives.”
Hina’s love for the ocean was evident in a video showcasing her snorkeling experience from her Water Villa. She expressed her deep connection with the sea, writing, “This is where I belong, the ocean Humbles me 🙏🏻 #soulsoothing #waterbaby #oceanlover #reelsinstagram #reelitfeelit3d.”
Sharing more photos from her island adventure, Hina emphasized the transformative power of such experiences. She wrote, “It’s not about the number of Days we Live in Paradise but about what We Become after we do .. @joyislandmaldives @thecocooncollection #joyislandmaldives #thecocooncollection.”
Hina Khan’s captivating posts have inspired many to consider Joy Island Maldives as their next dream destination. The island’s luxurious accommodations, breathtaking natural beauty, and thrilling water activities offer the perfect escape for those seeking tranquility and adventure.
Featured
Kuramathi Maldives secures Travelife Gold Certification for sustainable excellence
Kuramathi Maldives has renewed its Travelife Gold Certification, a globally recognised accolade that underscores its commitment to sustainability. Travelife, an industry-led program, emphasises social responsibility and environmental management, encouraging sustainable practices among tour operators and accommodation providers. Achieving this award reflects the resort’s consistent efforts toward corporate social responsibility (CSR) objectives, including preserving biodiversity, monitoring the marine ecosystem, implementing energy and water-saving measures, and collaborating with the local community on education and employment initiatives. A key aspect of this approach aligns with Travelife’s emphasis on employee welfare, ensuring fair wages, ethical working conditions, professional development opportunities, and adherence to health and safety standards. Furthermore, inclusive practices, such as providing equal employment opportunities and involving employees in sustainability efforts, contribute to a positive workplace culture where team members share a sense of ownership in CSR initiatives.
Central to these sustainability efforts is Kuramathi’s Eco Centre, managed by a team that includes a Sustainability Manager, Horticulturist, and Eco Centre Coordinator. This team works closely with the resort’s environment committee, which comprises members from various operational areas, to implement initiatives promoting environmental, social, and economic sustainability. By minimising environmental impacts, enhancing community benefits, and upholding human rights and fair labor practices, Kuramathi demonstrates responsible tourism, seamlessly integrating growth with conservation.
Featured
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon opens Marine Biology Unit
Regarded by ‘Lonely Planet’ as one of the premier destinations for diving, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is a tropical haven where lush greenery meets the expansive ocean. Surrounded by vibrant coral reefs brimming with marine life, the resort offers a rare combination of tranquility and adventure, providing guests with an extraordinary connection to nature. However, with global challenges such as climate change, overfishing, and pollution threatening marine ecosystems, the Maldives faces an urgent need to protect its delicate underwater environments.
In response to this growing responsibility, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon has taken a significant step in environmental conservation by establishing a dedicated Marine Biology Unit. This initiative aims to promote marine conservation and inspire a collective sense of responsibility among guests, staff, and the local community.
The Marine Biology Unit, formerly the resort’s library, has been transformed into an educational hub promoting sustainable tourism and ecological awareness. Led by Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts’ first and only female marine biologist, the unit brings a unique and empowering perspective to marine conservation efforts. It provides an interactive space for guests to explore the intricate world of marine life, covering topics such as coral health and the behaviour of local fish species.
Daily educational sessions offer insights into the complex ecosystems of the ocean, with topics ranging from the marvels of coral reefs to the fascinating behaviours of the region’s marine life. To spark interest, the unit displays the day’s featured topic at its entrance, encouraging guests to participate. Fish identification checklists are also made available, helping visitors enhance their knowledge as they explore Ellaidhoo’s vibrant reefs.
General Manager of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Sanjeeva Perera, emphasised the significance of this initiative, stating, “The launch of our Marine Biology Unit is the realisation of a long-awaited dream and a meaningful contribution to our ESG initiatives. Our mission is to empower guests and staff to become true stewards of the ocean, fostering a deep respect for marine life that will resonate long after their stay at Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon. We hope this initiative not only enriches their experience but also builds a foundation of environmental responsibility that extends to the wider community.”
A longstanding advocate for eco-friendly practices, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon recognises the critical importance of preserving the island’s extraordinary natural beauty. By involving guests as active participants in environmental protection, the resort aims to create a lasting positive impact, cultivating a shared commitment to safeguarding the pristine marine environment for future generations.
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