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Harnessing Local Knowledge to Explore the Fascinating Secrets of the Distant Stars with Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villa’s SKY Gurus
We have all, at one time or another, gazed up into the night sky and contemplated the mysteries of the universe, but if ever you were planning to learn more about the stars and the secrets they hold, you would be hard-pushed to find a more ideal location than SKY at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas.
Located in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Anantara Kihavah is not only a tropical island paradise but also a stargazer’s dream location. The private island’s remoteness means that it is free from light pollution, while its proximity to the equator affords spectacular views of both the southern and northern sky.
At SKY, Anantara Kihavah’s overwater observatory combined with a luxury cocktail bar, the far reaches of the universe are brought into crystal clear focus as guests sip Champagne or cocktails and gaze through one of the most powerful telescopes in the region while the resort’s two resident SKY Gurus regale them with fascinating stories of the night sky. Harnessing their local knowledge of the Maldivian sky to reveal the intriguing stories behind the countless stars that make up the distant constellations, Zunnoon Ahmed, known as Zunnu, and Ali Arushal, who goes by the name of Shalli, are Anantara Kihavah’s Resident SKY Gurus. Both natives of Baa Atoll, Zunnu and Shalli are not only captivating storytellers, but they also each have their own story to tell.
Zunnoon Ahmed
Born and raised on the small island of Kudarikilu in Baa Atoll, Zunnu has always been fascinated by the night sky. Driven by a curiosity to unravel the secrets and stories behind the stars that fill the cloudless Maldivian skies, his fascination evolved into a passion for astrophotography when he was just 16 years old, marking the beginning of his journey into the enthralling world of astronomy.
Although Zunnu pursued a career in the more conventional field of IT, currently serving as Assistant IT Manager by day and storytelling SKY Guru by night, his passion for stargazing only grew stronger. He collaborates with online telescope operators in his spare time, engaging in astro imaging to capture captivating glimpses of the cosmos through remote telescopes, while he is constantly looking for new ways to expand his knowledge. “I always make it a habit to check online astronomy forums for the latest celestial discoveries and engage in discussions with fellow space enthusiasts,” he explained.
Having originally joined Anantara Kihavah in 2017 as an IT Coordinator, overseeing the hotel network, managing hotel applications, and playing a key role in ensuring the seamless operation of various technological aspects for a smooth guest experience, Zunnu grabbed the opportunity to develop his celestial passion by volunteering to study stargazing under the supervision of the resort’s first SKY Guru, Ali Shameem.
Across the next five years, Zunnu conducted research, took theory tests and participated in stargazing demos as part of his detailed training process. “The experience of learning about the stars was a bit challenging when I started,” he explained. “But it has become truly fantastic now. The journey of understanding the cosmos has been both rewarding and enlightening.”
Recalling his first stargazing session at Anantara Kihavah, Zunnu commented on how the positive reactions of the guests turned it into a rewarding and fulfilling experience, both for him and for his captivated audience. Sharing his passion now comes easily to the engaging Zunnu. “We all have a natural curiosity to understand the world around us,” he explained. “And the night sky, with its myriad stars, has always been a source of wonder and questions. Stars often hold cultural and mythological significance in various societies. Many cultures have created stories, myths, and legends based on constellations and individual stars, adding a sense of mystery and importance.”
While his own personal favourite star is Aldebaran, Zunnu is more than happy to take advantage of Anantara Kihavah’s pristine location away from light pollution to find and share a variety of celestial events with the resort’s guests. “We regularly witness awe-inspiring solar eclipses, captivating lunar eclipses, mesmerising meteor showers, and enchanting planetary conjunctions in our cosmic spectacle,” he enthused.
Ali Arushal
A more recent addition to Anantara Kihavah’s small but elite team of SKY Gurus, Shalli is another native of Baa Atoll, having been born and raised on the island of Kendhoo. Shalli describes his childhood on Kendhoo as happy and enjoyable, and while his interest in the stars began at a young age, it was not until he joined Anantara Kihavah that he delved deeper into the field of astronomy.
Having joined Anantara Kihavah’s transport department in 2021, Shalli is part of the resort’s launch crew, where his main responsibilities include ensuring transport operations run smoothly. However, his fascination with the amazing views of the Maldivian night sky resulted in him volunteering to train as the resort’s next SKY Guru.
During one and a half years of learning about stargazing from the resort’s first SKY Guru, Shalli’s intensive training involved theory tests, reading assignments, and stargazing demonstrations. Eager to expand his knowledge and complement his training, Shalli also seeks out additional information from the internet and YouTube.
Describing his first stargazing session with guests as stunning, Shalli quickly warmed to his new role. As a SKY Guru, Shalli enjoys sharing his passion and imparting unknown knowledge about the stars to others. While he names Antares as his personal favourite star, he enjoys nothing more than being able to show guests distant constellations or share such amazing spectacles with them as a lunar eclipse, solar eclipse or meteors.
SKY Gurus lead guests on a cosmic journey across both hemisphere’s stars and planets, clarifying what can be seen in the sky with the naked eye and using a green laser, they point out different constellations and explains light years and different types of galaxies. Guests are then able to view the sky from the observatory telescope which has a viewing capacity of 30 million light years away.
The locale gives guests an opportunity to see lunar eclipses, stars and planets invisible from Europe or America. Sometimes, depending on climate and time of the year, you can even catch a glimpse of Saturn with its pale-yellow rings, belts of Jupiter that vary in width, colour and intensity from year to year and the several hundred thousand of stars that make up Messier 13.
SKY is the finest over water observatory in the Maldives built with a 3.8 metre revolving Ash dome and equipped with a research-grade Meade 16” LX200 telescope with a magnification of 400x mounted on a super-giant field tripod.
Embark on a cosmic journey at Anantara Kihavah’s SKY Observatory. For more information or to book, call +960 664 4111, visit their website or email reservations.maldives@anantara.com.
This festive season, SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, welcomes guests to a nostalgic island escape with “Retro Tropicana” — a celebration of timeless style, sun-soaked moments, and heartfelt connection. From December 20, 2025, to January 9, 2026, the resort transforms into a nostalgic tropical retreat, where every moment captures the beauty of connection and the warmth of the season.
The festivities begin with the Festive Tree Lighting Ceremony, an enchanting evening that marks the official start of the season. Guests gather on the beach as the first lights illuminate the resort, casting a warm, golden glow across the sand and reflecting in the gentle waves, setting a serene and celebratory tone for the weeks ahead.
Throughout the season, guests can indulge in themed dinners that celebrate global and local flavours, from Mediterranean-inspired evenings to authentic Maldivian feasts under the stars. Families will find a sense of play woven into each day, with creative activities, poolside fun, and a special visit from Santa for the little ones. Young guests can join the Treasure Quest and Masquerade, take part in the Gingerbread House Decorating Competition, and make new holiday memories filled with laughter and imagination.
As Christmas approaches, the island takes on a glow of its own. Guests are invited to gather for a Retro Eve: A Tropicana Christmas and enjoy a vibrant evening of festive flavours, tropical ambience, and live music under the stars. The celebrations continue on Christmas Day with a lavish Christmas Dinner Buffet, featuring an array of seasonal favourites and island-inspired delights in a relaxed beachfront setting.
Together, these moments capture the true essence of a Tropical Christmas, joyful, effortless, and warmly shared.
As the year draws to a close, the Retro Tropicana New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner and Countdown invites guests to welcome 2026 in true SAii style, surrounded by ocean breeze, glowing lanterns, and beautifully curated cuisine. It is a celebration that blends understated elegance with the relaxed rhythm of island life.
The season continues with experiences that celebrate renewal, connection, and the joy of being outdoors. Guests can join Roots of Hope, a meaningful tree-planting initiative that honours nature and community, or take part in the island’s spirited Padel Tennis Tournament, where friendly competition meets the carefree rhythm of the tropics.
As the festive season unfolds, SAii Lagoon Maldives invites guests to celebrate the season with warmth, laughter, and a sense of effortless joy. From sparkling evenings by the ocean to shared meals and lively gatherings, the festivities capture the spirit of the island — bright, welcoming, and full of memorable moments for every guest.
To learn more about SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton and book your next mindful escape, visit saiihotels.com/lagoon-maldives.
Hard Rock Hotel Maldives is all set to celebrate the festive season in style with “Beach, Baubles & Beats”, a vibrant holiday experience running from 21st December 2025 to 10th January 2026. Nestled on the pristine shores of the Maldives, the resort will transform into a musical playground where sun, sand, flavors, and festive cheer come together in perfect harmony.
Guests can expect a symphony of experiences, from lively live band performances and soulful acoustic sets to high-energy DJ sessions under the stars. Every moment is designed to keep the rhythm alive, whether it’s an afternoon jam by the pool, a sunset beach party, or an electrifying New Year’s Eve countdown. Culinary delights set the stage with a range of themed feasts, from zesty Tostilocos and margaritas to indulgent seafood and lobster nights, turning every meal into a celebration of taste and creativity.
The little rockstars are not left out, with Roxity Kids Club offering festive crafts, cookie decorating, talent shows, scavenger hunts, and hands-on activities designed to spark imagination and holiday joy. From playful beach games to interactive performances, families can enjoy shared experiences that create lasting memories.
Signature events will light up the season, including magical tree lightings, Christmas Eve gala dinners, Santa’s grand arrival, and New Year’s Eve parties that combine mesmerizing performances, fire shows, and beachside beats. Each day and night blends music, movement, and festive spirit, creating a seamless celebration from dawn to dusk.
Whether guests are swaying to acoustic melodies, dancing poolside to DJ beats, or savoring a decadent festive feast, “Beach, Baubles & Beats” at Hard Rock Hotel Maldives promises a holiday season filled with rhythm, joy, and unforgettable moments.
For more information and reservations, please visit www.hardrockhotels.com/maldives.
News
The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort unveils festive season programme with beachside Christmas, Gatsby-themed New Year
The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort unveils its Festive Season programming with “Golden Nights, Timeless Lights,” a celebratory series inspired by the glamour and spirit of the Roaring Twenties. Running from December 22, 2025, through January 6, 2026, the calendar blends sparkling beachfront moments with wellness-forward experiences that capture the magic of the season in the heart of the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Festivities begin on December 22 with a tree-lighting ceremony that sets the tone for a fortnight of golden evenings and joyful gatherings. On December 24, a Christmas Eve Cocktail Party invites guests to dress to dazzle while sipping signature concoctions crafted by the resort’s mixologists. Christmas Day brings a special appearance from Santa Claus and a warm meet-and-greet for families, complemented by a full program at the Westin Family Kids Club, including gingerbread house decorating, Christmas bingo, and more.
The season crescendos on December 31 with The Great Gatsby New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner, a barefoot beach celebration where vintage elegance meets island flair. Guests can expect an exquisite international buffet, a live swing band, a mesmerizing fire dance performance, and a dazzling fireworks finale to welcome 2026 in an unforgettable way.
Throughout the holidays, the resort’s Move Well and Play Well ethos takes center stage. Sunrise yoga, energizing beach workouts, the scenic runWestin program, and various complimentary recharging activities offer restorative balance to evenings of celebration. Guests can also venture out on unforgettable excursions to explore an underwater world teeming with marine life, or paddle leisurely on complimentary ocean kayaks. For rejuvenation, guests are invited to indulge in a relaxing treatment at Heavenly Spa by Westin™, an overwater sanctuary with a glass floor and sweeping ocean views.
The resort’s five distinctive restaurants and bars will host a series of themed dinners, each showcasing fresh flavors and thoughtful pairings. Whether gathered for a sparkling cocktail at sunset or a family meal under the stars, guests will discover a season of connection and well-being wrapped in the tropical warmth of Maldivian nights.
To secure your year-end getaway and for more information, visit westin-maldives.com. Click here to see the full festive calendar at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort.
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