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JOALI BEING partners with world-renowned German doctor, aesthetics expert Dr Barbara Sturm
On the pristine isle of Bodufushi in Raa atoll, JOALI BEING- the first wellbeing island of its kind in the Maldives – will offer guests Dr Barbara Sturm’s world-acclaimed non-surgical anti-ageing treatments and methods for rejuvenating the skin. Redefining the meaning of wellbeing getaways, JOALI BEING has worked closely with Dr Sturm to bring seven carefully selected signature treatments to the resort, where she is a regular visitor.
Treatments include the signature STURMGLOW™️ Facial – designed to nourish and awaken the skin and restore complexion’s natural glow, Super Anti-Aging Facial – for replenishing moisture resulting in a smoother and more youthful complexion, Darker Skin Tones Facial – specially formulated for melanin-rich skin to help hydrate and calm skin, reduce hyperpigmentation and minimise pores, Brightening Facial to help refresh the complexion and even skin tone, Men’s Facial which has been designed specifically to meet the needs and challenges of men’s skin and Adult Acne Facial and Teen Acne Facial – to help with the treatment of blemishes and breakouts. Guests can also add micro-needling to their facials which stimulates the production of collagen.
Modern science and long-honoured traditions are at the heart of JOALI BEING to guide guests on a journey of self-discovery and renewal. A dedicated expert team of naturopaths, therapists and movement experts aims to work with guests every step of the way to help set intentions nurture and co-create moments of ‘wonder and transcendence.’
The Four Pillars of JOALI BEING includes:
- MIND: Cultivate contentment and peace of mind through sound therapy and mind and body practices
- SKIN: Illuminate the skin with rejuvenating therapies that draw equally from timeless rituals and the world’s most advanced research
- MICROBIOME: Form a deeper understanding of the connection between body, mind and nutrition while building eating habits around the body’s circadian rhythm
- ENERGY: Rebalance the nervous system and optimise energy flow through intelligent movement practices and restorative therapies
Known for its transformative 360 wellbeing experiences, it offers a hybrid of healing and restorative practices alongside fitness and wellbeing experts paired with its unique transformative spaces – including hydrotherapy, movement and sound healing treatments – to help nourish guests from within. Likewise, Dr Sturm’s philosophy is firmly built around an anti-inflammatory lifestyle which includes maintaining an anti-inflammatory diet and choosing skincare products rich in anti-inflammatory ingredients to replenish hydration and nutrition levels, promote telomerase activation and encourage exosome activity – key mediators in cell-to-cell communication that play pivotal roles in reducing inflammation during ageing.
“As a regular visitor to JOALI BEING, I know that we share the same philosophy when it comes to treating the skin, as such, this partnership came naturally to us. We understand the benefits and importance of leading an anti-inflammatory lifestyle and incorporating a skincare routine that focuses on healing and repairing,” says Dr Sturm.
“My whole skincare philosophy is focused on combating inflammation and its consequences and healing the skin with advanced ingredient science and the anti-inflammatory lifestyle is the key for me. We are bombarded every day with inflammatory influences, from harsh skincare ingredients to UVA and UVB rays, stress, tailpipe emissions, HEV rays, smoking and drinking and sugar. If we learn what inflammatory and anti-inflammatory influences are, we can adjust our lifestyle accordingly. It will have both an immediate and long-term effect on skin ageing and your overall health. Adequate sleep, getting daily exercise, avoiding excess alcohol, sugar, fried and processed foods, and flour while eating anti-inflammatory foods like avocados, salmon, olive oil, tomatoes, nuts, dark berries and green tea are my constants for daily self-care.”
JOALI BEING further offers wellbeing programmes ranging from five nights to three weeks designed around its key pillars curated for each guest and their needs through Intelligent Movement Analysis and Integrative Health Assessment. These can also be tailored towards areas of strength and vitality, mental clarity and wellbeing. hormonal balance, women’s health, digestive and weight rebalance, restorative sleep as well as movement and alignment for good health and immunity.
Enver Arslan, Area General Manager for JOALI brand says: “Using our own tools, we can determine each area of improvement required to help build a robust wellbeing experience tailored to our guests – which also applies to their skin. This can range from a tailor-made fitness and mental wellbeing programme alongside a dedicated dietary plan. As soon as a guest checks in, we give them the option to take a wellbeing consultation to determine what can be done to help them on their improvement journey.”
Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives has introduced Essens Spa, a newly launched wellness sanctuary designed for all ages. This transformative space blends Maldivian healing traditions with modern wellness therapies, offering an immersive journey of relaxation, rejuvenation, and renewal for adults, teens, and children alike.
Nestled amidst lush tropical foliage and the tranquil beachfront of Kanifushi Island, Essens Spa is a haven of holistic wellbeing, created to nourish the mind, body, and soul. From signature spa rituals for adults to dedicated treatments for teens and children, every experience at Essens Spa combines authenticity, care, and innovation.
“We are thrilled to partner with Essens Spa to enhance the wellness experience for our guests”, said Ram Bhoyroo, General Manager of Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives. “Essens Spa brings together family-friendly treatments, modern techniques, and the timeless beauty of Maldivian wellness, offering something for everyone—from adults seeking relaxation to teens and children discovering the joys of wellbeing.”
Essens Spa offers a comprehensive wellness program with immersive spa journeys, yoga and detox sessions, healing rituals, and salon services. Signature treatments include the Essens Spa Journey, a 150-minute indulgence with a coconut scrub, full-body massage, traditional haircare ritual, and a coconut milk bath, all using locally sourced Maldivian ingredients to promote renewal.
For younger guests, the Kids Spa Experience offers playful treatments, while teen wellness rituals support youthful skin, growing bodies, and emotional balance.
As the only spa in the Maldives’ premium segment to offer ELEMIS BIOTEC facials, Essens Spa sets a new standard in skincare with advanced therapies such as ultrasonic peels, microcurrent sculpting, and LED light therapy.
Essens Spa also features Ayurvedic treatments, couples’ massages, and salon services including haircuts, styling, and luxurious treatments. The Healing Touch Massage, using warm Maldivian sand compresses, provides a deeply restorative experience.
Essens Spa embodies a vision to deliver world-class wellness infused with the soulful touch of Maldivian tradition. It is more than a spa—it is a serene haven where guests reconnect with themselves and the natural world, guided by healing hands and authentic hospitality.
Essens Spa at Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives: A journey of beauty, balance, and wellbeing—for every guest, at every age.
Komandoo Island Resort & Spa has been recognised as a winner in the 2025 TripAdvisor® Travellers’ Choice® Awards, earning a place among the top 10% of hotels globally. This prestigious accolade reflects the boutique adults-only resort’s enduring charm, thoughtful details, and commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences in an intimate and romantic setting.
As a member of the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame, Komandoo has long maintained a reputation as one of the Maldives’ most beloved resorts for couples and honeymooners. With just 65 villas situated along pristine beaches and above a shimmering turquoise lagoon, the island offers an idyllic retreat where love, serenity, and barefoot luxury thrive.
According to Mohamed Solah, CEO of Crown & Champa Resorts, “This recognition is a testament to the genuine care our Team of Champions puts into every stay. At Komandoo, hospitality is more than a service—it’s a heartfelt connection with each guest.”
Ahmed Naseem, General Manager of Komandoo Island Resort & Spa, added, “What makes Komandoo special is the soul of the island—our champions’ passion, the intimacy of the setting, and the heartfelt experiences created for every guest. Being honoured year after year by our guests and by TripAdvisor inspires us to keep delivering unforgettable moments in one of the most romantic corners of the world.”
Komandoo’s adults-only policy and tranquil environment make it an exceptional choice for honeymoons, anniversaries, and couples’ getaways. Guests enjoy uninterrupted serenity, romantic beach dining, curated experiences, and wellness offerings designed for reconnection and relaxation.
Komandoo’s inclusion in the 2025 Travellers’ Choice Awards continues a long-standing tradition of excellence celebrated by TripAdvisor and the global travel community. Among the numerous accolades the resort has received from TripAdvisor over the years are:
- TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award Winner 2025 & 2024
- TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence – 2019
- Travellers’ Choice Awards – UK – 2018
- Certificate of Excellence – UK – 2016
- TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards – UK – 2015 – | #1 Romantic Resort in the Maldives | #7 Top Hotel for Service in Maldives | Top 10 Hotels in Maldives
- Certificate of Excellence – UK – 2015 & 2012
- Five-time Certificate of Excellence Winner (2011–2015)
- TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award – 2009 (UK) | #1 Romantic Resort in Maldives | #1 in Asia | #7 in the World
These accolades highlight Komandoo’s unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction and its dedication to delivering memorable, personalised stays.
With its adults-only policy and serene setting, Komandoo offers an unparalleled destination for honeymoons, anniversaries, and romantic escapes. Guests are treated to uninterrupted tranquillity, bespoke beach dining experiences, wellness offerings, and curated activities designed to foster reconnection.
The resort features a variety of accommodations, from overwater villas with direct lagoon access to beach villas shaded by palms, each offering comfort, privacy, and luxury. Additional highlights include award-winning dining, indulgent spa treatments at Duniye Spa, and a vibrant house reef ideal for snorkelling enthusiasts. Komandoo seamlessly blends Maldivian authenticity with modern comforts and heartfelt service. As the island’s only resort, it offers guests a rare sense of exclusivity—where every detail is crafted to let love stories unfold.
Hurawalhi Island Resort has once again secured its position among the world’s premier travel destinations, earning multiple global and regional accolades in the prestigious 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice® Awards. Most notably, the resort was honoured with the ‘Best of the Best’ title—an elite designation reserved for the top 1% of hotels worldwide, based on authentic guest reviews and ratings.
The 2025 awards underscore Hurawalhi’s ongoing dedication to providing exceptional guest experiences and world-class service in an idyllic Maldivian setting. The resort achieved impressive rankings in several key categories:
- #19 – Luxury Hotels Worldwide
- #14 – Treat Yourself (Wellness) Worldwide
- #5 – Luxury Hotels Asia
- #6 – All-Inclusive Resorts Asia
- #22 – Top Hotels Asia
These recognitions highlight Hurawalhi’s unique approach to luxury, which combines modern design and sophistication with immersive wellness offerings, curated experiences, and exceptional service standards.
Located in the pristine Lhaviyani Atoll, Hurawalhi Island Resort features 90 elegant villas, both beachside and overwater, offering panoramic views of the turquoise Indian Ocean. The resort is internationally renowned for its 5.8 Undersea Restaurant—the world’s largest all-glass underwater dining venue—which delivers an unforgettable culinary experience beneath the sea.
Mohamed Solah, Chief Executive Officer of Crown & Champa Resorts, stated, “This multitude of awards is a powerful endorsement of the tireless commitment and passion of the resort team. It’s incredibly rewarding to see Hurawalhi recognised by travellers from across the globe. These awards reflect the continuing mission to deliver transformative, heartfelt Maldivian holidays that linger in memory.” Through signature wellness programs, indulgent spa therapies, sustainable initiatives, and exclusive excursions, Hurawalhi continues to redefine the meaning of barefoot luxury.
Akira Shiota, General Manager of Hurawalhi Island Resort, commented on the achievements: “At Hurawalhi, luxury is not only reflected in the breathtaking villas, diverse wellness programs, and spa treatments that heal both the mind and body, or the spectacular epicurean experiences. It is also embodied in the warmth, thoughtfulness, and authenticity of the service provided. These recognitions fuel our drive to innovate and elevate every guest’s journey with us.”
The resort’s all-inclusive concept—crafted with flexibility and sophistication in mind—allows guests to enjoy premium beverages, refined gastronomy, engaging activities, and wellness immersions without restrictions. Whether for a honeymoon, milestone celebration, or a rejuvenating escape, Hurawalhi offers the perfect setting to relax and indulge in style.
]The 2025 accolades mark another milestone in Hurawalhi’s distinguished record of excellence within the hospitality industry:
- 2024 – TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award: Ranked among the top 10% of hospitality businesses globally
- 2023 – TripAdvisor Achievement: 2nd Place globally in the 5-Star All-Inclusive category
- 2019 – TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence: Recognised for consistent guest satisfaction and glowing reviews
Each year, TripAdvisor honours travelers’ favorite destinations, hotels, restaurants, and activities worldwide, based on genuine feedback from the global travel community.
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