News
Hurawalhi Island Resort Earns Coveted Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Rating for 2024
Hurawalhi Island Resort, nestled in the pristine Lhaviyani Atoll of the Maldives, proudly announces its distinction as a recipient of the coveted Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Rating for 2024. This prestigious accolade illuminates the resort’s unwavering commitment to excellence in hospitality and its relentless pursuit of providing unparalleled guest experiences.
Distinguished among the world’s finest luxury destinations, Hurawalhi Island Resort exemplifies the pinnacle of opulence and service. From the azure waters of the Indian Ocean to the immaculate white sands, every aspect of the resort embodies a harmonious blend of elegance and tranquility.
“We are elated to be recognized among this year’s esteemed group of award winners,” remarked Mohamed Solah, the visionary Chief Operating Officer of Crown and Champa Resorts. “This achievement reflects the tireless dedication of our team, who consistently strive to exceed expectations and create unforgettable memories for our cherished guests. It marks a historic milestone since the inception of Hurawalhi in December 2016, underscoring our unwavering commitment to redefining luxury in the Maldives.”
The Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star award, unveiled on www.forbestravelguide.com at 9 a.m. Eastern on February 7, 2024, solidifies Hurawalhi Island Resort’s status as an unparalleled sanctuary of indulgence and sophistication.
Now in its 66th year, the Forbes Travel Guide Star Awards honor destinations that epitomize excellence in service and luxury. Leveraging the expertise of incognito inspectors, the guide meticulously curates a collection of the world’s most exceptional properties, ensuring each embodies the epitome of refinement and hospitality.
From Mauritius to Macau, this year’s list showcases an array of captivating destinations, with Hurawalhi Island Resort in the Maldives, proudly standing among the select few recognized for their unparalleled commitment to guest satisfaction.
Notably, in 2022, Hurawalhi Island Resort’s sister property, Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, also attained the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Rating, further accentuating the impeccable standards upheld by the Crown and Champa Resorts collection.
Hurawalhi Island Resort extends its heartfelt appreciation to its devoted team members whose unwavering dedication and passion have been instrumental in achieving this remarkable milestone.
About Hurawalhi Island Resort: Discover a realm of unparalleled luxury and tranquility at Hurawalhi Island Resort. Nestled amidst the captivating beauty of the Maldives’ Lhaviyani Atoll, the resort offers a sanctuary where opulence meets serenity. With world-class amenities, breathtaking accommodations, and unparalleled service, Hurawalhi Island Resort invites guests to embark on a journey of unparalleled luxury and discovery.
News
Cinnamon Maldives updates book direct offer to let guests choose tailored experiences
Travellers continue to return to the Maldives in search of clear lagoons, warm hospitality and meaningful experiences that reflect both the destination and their personal interests. As visitor expectations evolve, research shows a growing preference for stays that feel tailored rather than standardised. A recent Mews survey reports that 68% of travellers prefer personalised experiences instead of generic rewards, with even stronger interest among Gen Z and affluent travellers.
Recognising these preferences, Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts Maldives has refined its Book Direct value offering. The updated structure allows guests who book directly to select two curated experiences from each resort’s personalised list while also receiving resort credits for stays of three nights or more. This credit can be used across dining, wellness and recreational activities, giving guests the freedom to shape their time on the island according to their interests and pace.
Members of Cinnamon Discovery, the brand’s loyalty programme, can access an expanded set of Book Direct benefits based on their membership tier. Silver members may select two experiences, Gold members may select three experiences and Platinum members receive all experiences listed at the resort they book.
- Four course dinner by the beach
- Island hopping adventure
- Dolphin safari
- 45 minute spa treatment
Resort credit available: USD 150 per room per stay for bookings of three nights or more
- Four course dinner by the beach
- Balinese massage
- Island hopping adventure
- Guided swim and snorkel session
Resort credit available: USD 100 per room per stay for bookings of three nights or more
Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives
- Sunset fishing
- Island hopping adventure
- Sparkling bottle of beverage
- 1 hour double kayak experience
Resort credit available: USD 100 per room per stay for bookings of three nights or more
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon
- Four course dinner by the beach
- Balinese massage
- Sunset fishing
- Dolphin safari
Resort credit available: USD 100 per room per stay for bookings of three nights or more
For more information on Book Direct benefits, detailed terms and eligibility, guests are encouraged to visit Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts.
Cooking
Chef Frank Fol leads plant-based culinary programme at ananea Madivaru Maldives
ananea Madivaru Maldives is hosting Chef Frank Fol, founder of We’re Smart World and a recognised figure in plant-based gastronomy, for a dedicated culinary programme aimed at strengthening and refining the resort’s plant-based dining concepts.
Chef Fol is visiting the island from 8 to 14 December, working closely with the culinary team to develop and enhance plant-forward offerings across the resort’s dining experiences. The programme focuses on integrating contemporary plant-based techniques with locally relevant ingredients and presentation styles, aligning with evolving guest preferences for balanced and conscious dining.
As part of the visit, an internal tasting menu is scheduled to take place, bringing together Chef Fol and the resort’s senior leadership. During the session, Chef Fol will present a selection of plant-forward dishes developed throughout his stay, offering insight into his culinary philosophy and approach to modern vegetable-led cuisine.
ananea Madivaru Maldives stated that the collaboration is intended to support the continued development of its food and beverage concepts, with a particular emphasis on broadening high-quality plant-based options available to guests across its restaurants.
Following the tasting session, the resort will issue a formal press release outlining the programme outcomes, including details of the dishes, concepts, and future plans. Visual assets and supporting media materials will also be made available as part of the official announcement.
The visit forms part of ananea Madivaru Maldives’ wider efforts to evolve its culinary offerings in line with global dining trends while maintaining a strong focus on quality, creativity, and guest experience.
Featured
Kuramathi Maldives announces private wellness programmes with Imron Zulfikar
Kuramathi Maldives has announced the arrival of esteemed holistic wellness practitioner Imron Zulfikar, who will undertake an exclusive residency at the resort from 15 December 2025 to 3 January 2026. During this period, guests will have the opportunity to participate in bespoke wellness experiences crafted by a recognised expert in integrative health.
Throughout his residency, Imron will conduct a series of private wellness sessions designed to restore balance, promote renewal, and enhance long-term wellbeing. His practice brings together ancient therapeutic traditions and contemporary fitness science, resulting in personalised programmes that support harmony, mobility, and emotional resilience. Signature offerings include:
- Watsu Water Healing Journey: A restorative treatment conducted in warm water, combining elements of shiatsu, massage, and gentle movement to release deep tension, soothe the nervous system, and foster a sense of tranquillity.
- Chakra Balance Therapy: A holistic session that aligns mind and body through crystal healing, guided meditation, and calming massage techniques.
- Meridian Deep Release Massage: A therapeutic blend of deep tissue massage and acupressure aimed at easing chronic tension, improving flexibility, and stimulating energy flow.
- Accu Glow Facial: A rejuvenating facial incorporating acupuncture and customised skincare to activate collagen production, detoxify the skin, and enhance natural luminosity.
- Oriental Slim Detox Massage: A treatment grounded in Traditional Chinese Medicine, combining acupuncture and massage to promote lymphatic drainage and support detoxification.
Imron is an accomplished wellness lifestyle coach and holistic fitness specialist with more than ten years of experience in acupuncture, tension release therapies, yoga, Pilates, and personal training. His integrative methodology nurtures physical alignment, emotional balance, and overall vitality.
He has worked with numerous luxury resorts and an impressive roster of high-profile clients, including Serena Williams, Emma Watson, Richard Branson, and members of the UAE Royal Family. Celebrated for his intuitive approach and refined technique, Richard Branson has previously referred to Imron as having “golden hands.”
Kuramathi Maldives looks forward to offering guests this exceptional opportunity to engage in transformative, individually tailored wellness experiences during Imron’s residency.
-
Featured1 week agoKuda Villingili Maldives crafts poetic Valentine’s escape ‘Through the Sands of Time’
-
Featured1 week agoLuxury that whispers: THE OZEN COLLECTION celebrates five years of refined hospitality
-
Awards6 days agoMaldives again named World’s Leading Destination
-
Action7 days agoSiyam World achieves snorkelling world record with 307 participants
-
Awards6 days agoTrans Maldivian Airways named World’s Leading Seaplane Operator 2025
-
Featured6 days agoNoku Maldives unveils long-term Sea Turtle Conservation Programme
-
Featured6 days agoFrom spa rituals to sunrise yoga: Angsana Velavaru champions mindful living
-
Featured5 days agoBlue Mind Theory brought to life at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau


