News
Manta Air elevates to new heights with international flights to India starting from 2024

Manta Air, the Maldives’ leading airline, has announced that it is starting direct flights from India to the tropical paradise of Maldives.
The announcement took place at a prestigious event hosted at the chic Bang at The Ritz-Carlton hotel in Bangalore.
In a move aimed at redefining air travel between India and the Maldives, the airline will operate direct flights from Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport to the Maldives’ Dhaalu Airport, allowing visitors to avoid the hassles and additional expense of transiting through the main Velaana International Airport at Male, and gaining direct access to many luxury resorts located in Dhaalu atoll.
Manta Air is the Maldives’ leading seaplane and domestic airlines operator and prides itself on providing its passengers with a seamless travel experience and exceptional customer service. By flying directly to Dhaalu airport, customers going to resorts located in that atoll are able to save on the usual transit time and additional transfer costs incurred when entering Maldives through the traditional Male’ airport route. Dhaalu atoll is host to some the country’s best resorts, including Kandima Maldives, Niyama Private Islands, St. Regis Maldives, RIU, Baglioni, Angsana Velavaru, and Sun Siyam Iru Veli.
Flight schedules have been designed to allow guests to maximise their stay duration in the Maldives, with all flights arriving in the Maldives in the mornings and departing late in the evenings for India.
The flights are schedules to commence in January 2024.
Mohamed Khaleel, CEO of Manta Air comments, “This announcement marks a pivotal moment in our company’s trajectory – we are progressing from being the leading domestic and seaplane carrier in the Maldives to an international airline operator. With Manta Air’s expansion through a new direct flight route from India to the Maldives we anticipate a surge in travel interest and bookings from Indian tourists. This strategic move aims to enhance the guest experience and boost bookings for resorts in Dhaalu atoll, particularly. Kandima, RIU Hotel, and Niyama Private Island, which are all located in close proximity to the airport. By facilitating easier and more affordable travel access to the Maldives, we foresee a substantial increase in travel demand from Bengaluru and across India in 2024 and beyond.”
This strategic initiative signifies a major milestone for the homegrown Maldives’ airline and recognises India as a pivotal source market for the Maldives. Manta Air, in collaboration with premium partner resorts, will curate combined exclusive packages for the respective properties that are conveniently connected to the Dhaalu Airport. These thoughtfully designed offers ensure end-to-end convenience for international travelers from India, resulting in significant savings on flight time and costs. With this initiative Manta Air aims to enhance the in-flight experience, streamline international travel processes, and eliminate the need for intermediary travel requirements or connecting domestic flights within the Maldives.
Family
Hop into unforgettable Easter at Madifushi Private Island

This Easter, Madifushi Private Island invites guests to experience a joyful and vibrant celebration filled with festive surprises, delightful treats, and memorable activities for the whole family. The resort has curated an exciting lineup of Easter-themed programs, ensuring a truly unforgettable holiday experience for all ages.
Guests can look forward to a series of Special Easter Surprises throughout their stay, including personalized touches and sweet surprises delivered right to their villas. Every guest will also receive a thoughtful Easter gift, specially prepared to spread the spirit of the season.
Adding to the festivities, the resort’s culinary team will be presenting a range of Easter-themed buffets, showcasing a mouthwatering spread of seasonal favorites, international dishes, and creative desserts crafted with a festive twist.
The Easter celebrations continue across the resort with vibrant Easter activities and decorations that promise to delight guests of all ages. From egg hunts, arts & crafts, and family games to beautifully decorated spaces that capture the essence of Easter, every corner of the resort is set to be brimming with color, joy, and the warmth of the season.
“At Madifushi Private Island, we believe in crafting meaningful holiday experiences. Our Easter program has been thoughtfully designed to bring families, friends, and guests together in the true spirit of celebration and togetherness,” said Mohamed Hilmy, General Manager of Madifushi Private Island.
Madifushi Private Island provides an exclusive experience featuring luxurious villas, premium service, and a variety of recreational activities that embody the essence of Maldivian luxury. Located in the tranquil Meemu Atoll, the island also prioritises eco-friendly practices, ensuring that the island remains a pristine paradise for future generations.
For reservations or further information, please reach out to the resort at stay@madifushiprivateisland.com or +960 6720000. You can also explore more about the resort’s offerings by visiting the website at www.madifushiprivateisland.com.
Awards
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon recognised with HolidayCheck Gold Award 2025

Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon has been awarded the prestigious HolidayCheck Gold Award 2025, a distinction reserved for top-performing hotels worldwide. This recognition is given to properties that have consistently maintained exceptional guest reviews and have won the HolidayCheck Award for at least five consecutive years. Among the seven resorts to receive this honour, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon continues to stand out as a preferred destination for travellers seeking unparalleled marine experiences and warm hospitality.
Presented annually, the HolidayCheck Award is based on verified guest reviews, with only the top ten hotels in each region receiving this accolade. The Gold Award further echoes Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon’s unwavering commitment to excellence, ensuring unforgettable stays for its guests year after year. Commenting on this accoldate, Shihab Mohammed, Director – Commercial for Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives stated: “This recognition is more than an award. It is a reflection of the countless extraordinary moments our team creates for guests, both above and below the water. At Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, we don’t just offer a stay; we curate an experience that blends adventure, tranquillity, and authentic Maldivian hospitality”.
Tucked away on the edge of North Ari Atoll, the largest natural atoll in the Maldives, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is a diver’s paradise where the ocean tells a story of vibrant marine life, thriving coral gardens, and endless discovery. The resort’s legendary house reef, teeming with colourful fish and graceful reef sharks, provides an unparalleled underwater experience just steps from the shore. With access to over 50 world-class dive sites, guests can explore the depths of the Indian Ocean day or night, guided by experts from the in-house dive centre. Whether mastering the art of diving with PADI-certified courses or drifting alongside manta rays on an exhilarating dive, every moment beneath the waves at Ellaidhoo is a breathtaking encounter with nature.
This summer, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon extends an invitation to experience the magic of the Maldives with an exclusive seasonal offer. Guests staying for four nights or more can enjoy a seamless arrival with complimentary speedboat transfers and indulge in a host of exclusive benefits. DISCOVERY members are treated to extraordinary moments, from a four-course beachfront dinner under the stars to the thrill of sunset fishing, the serenity of a Balinese massage, and the joy of a dolphin safari. With up to 15% off excursions and 20% off spa treatments, every stay is designed to be a journey of relaxation and adventure.
For more information or to book your stay, visit cinnamonhotels.com/ellaidhoo-maldives-by-cinnamon.
News
‘Super Facialist’ Teresa Tarmey returns to launch new treatments at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru

Revolutionary techniques for radiant skin from within. It’s the promise from one of the world’s leading skincare experts as she returns to her first resort-based studio. Teresa Tarmey will be in residence from April 14 to 23 at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, launching two new, gravity-reversing treatments alongside her legendary Signature Facial. Radio frequency, advanced LED technology, holistic massage, and a patented peptide infusion combine for visible results with no downtime.
With more than 27 years’ experience, Vogue’s “super-facialist,” Dior’s global skin expert from 2021 to 2023 and board member of the British Beauty Council, Teresa Tarmey is renowned for her results-driven, clinically-backed treatments. Her innovative approach and less-is-more skincare philosophy has achieved cult-like status, attracting a wealth of industry insiders and A-list clients alike.
In 2020, Tarmey launched her first resort-based studio at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru – SpaChina’s Global Wellness Resort 2024. On-site therapists were trained in her exclusive facials to offer year-round access to legendary beauty secrets. Now, the skincare guru is back to launch the all-new Skin Master Plus and Ultimate Radio Frequency Facial, as well as training four protegees while in residence.
“We’re thrilled to have the world-renowned Teresa Tarmey in residence with two new treatments at Landaa over Easter,” comments Dr Arun Thomson, Senior Director of AyurMa. “It’s an amazing opportunity for guests to experience in-person magic from the go-to facialist to the stars. Our therapists are also excited to gain insights into her new treatments so we can offer year-round facial innovation in UNESCO Biosphere surrounds.”
New for 2025:
Skin Master Plus by Teresa Tarmey – A truly pioneering facial treatment for complete skin rejuvenation, the Skinmaster Plus treatment uses a cutting-edge ultrasound-based dermabrasion and infusion system that focuses on the three key steps of an effective facial: skin cleansing, skin cell renewal and deep ingredient infusion to promote clean, healthy skin. The treatment combines state-of-the-art ultrasound technology and with Teresa Tarmey’s high-performance, patented peptides designed to leave skin not only looking rejuvenated but feeling it from within. Suitable for all skin types, it leaves the skin clean, nourished and smooth – all with no downtime.
The Ultimate Radio Frequency Facial – Combines pioneering patented technology in one results-driven treatment. The Ultimate Cleanse -powered by the signature TT Cleanser – is followed by a bespoke lactic acid peel to restore a brighter and clearer complexion. Non-invasive Radio Frequency uses electromagnetic waves to firm, lift and plump skin, and tailored LED Light Therapy stimulates collagen production to treat conditions such as acne, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, age spots and sun damage.
Teresa Tarmey fans will be delighted to see her Signature Facial on the menu too. Alongside tailored LED light therapy, this uplifting experience includes the exclusive TT Cryoball: an ice treatment that reduces inflammation, tightens pores, improves skin texture and increases circulation for a healthy, plump appearance.
The world-leading facials join an elevated vision for holistic living at the Resort’s healing haven AyurMa. Located in Landaa’s jungle heart, AyurMa is an invitation to guests to cultivate care for themselves, others, the oceans and the entire planet. Days follow nature’s rhythms, beginning with Wake Up to Wonder, a sensory exploration of an awakening island, and close with shared gratitude ritual, Rahumathuge Vaguthu (Earth Blessing).
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