News
Unveiling celestial wonders: 2 decades of astronomical excellence in Maldives
In the enchanting realm of Maldives tourism, a celestial marvel has quietly unfurled over the past two decades. It’s a saga of passion, exploration, and celestial wonder, all orbiting around one individual’s steadfast commitment to bridging the gap between humanity and the cosmos. Meet Ali Shameem, the Resort Manager of Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, nestled within the illustrious Crown and Champa Resorts Collection.
A pioneer in the field of astronomy tourism, Shameem’s cosmic journey commenced a decade ago with a transformative experience at the revered Milky Way Citizen, an astronomy school in India guided by the visionary Dr. Parag Mahjani. Enraptured by the celestial expanse, Shameem earned their inaugural certificate in Astronomy in 2010, igniting an extraordinary odyssey through the celestial realms.
Fast forward to the present, and Shameem stands as a luminary figure in Maldives tourism, having orchestrated a constellation of unforgettable astronomical experiences for visitors to the archipelago.
“From private stargazing sessions under the Maldivian night sky to Astronomical cruise dinners and special events tailored to celestial enthusiasts, I have illuminated the tourism landscape with my passion for astronomy,” noted Shameem.
But his stellar journey doesn’t end there. Collaborating with luminaries such as Dr. Giovanni Benjamin and even the legendary Astronaut Buzz Aldrin, Shameem has elevated the Maldives’ astronomical offerings to astronomical heights. Inviting top astronomers from around the globe to share their expertise, he has turned the Maldives into a celestial hub where enthusiasts and novices alike can marvel at the wonders of the universe.
In recent years, Shameem has been under the tutelage of Professor Massimo Tarenghi, a distinguished Italian astronomer renowned for his pivotal role in establishing the ALMA observatory in Chile, the largest radio telescope array in the world. Leveraging this wealth of knowledge, Shameem has spearheaded the creation of an observatory at Anantara Kihavah Villas, offering guests an unparalleled glimpse into the cosmos.
With an exceptional blend of astronomical expertise and a hospitality mindset, Ali Shameem has curated an unparalleled astronomical experience that continues to captivate guests for two decades and counting. As the Maldives maintains its status as a premier destination for luxury travel, Shameem’s dedication ensures that the marvels of the universe remain an integral part of the Maldivian experience.
Currently, Shameem is spearheading a similar astronomy program at Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, with the construction of an observatory underway. Despite the project not yet being complete, Shameem and the team have initiated stargazing sessions as a gesture to enhance the guest experience. Following beachside dining experiences, guests are treated to stargazing sessions lasting between 30 minutes to an hour, immersing them in the celestial wonders of the Maldivian night sky.
Furthermore, guests are provided with an enriching educational experience encompassing various aspects of astronomy:
- History of Astronomy: Kudadoo offers a detailed explanation of the history of astronomy, tracing its origins from ancient times and highlighting the remarkable discoveries made by ancient astronomers that have paved the way for modern-day astronomy.
- Visual Astronomy: Using a specialized laser light, Shameem’s team intricately outlines constellations from Ancient Greek Mythology, providing guests with a comprehensive understanding of the bright stars visible in the night sky. Details such as distance, type, age, and size of the stars are meticulously explained, enriching the stargazing experience.
- Deep Sky Astronomy: Through the utilization of a cutting-edge virtual application on an iPad, Kudadoo navigates guests through the latest discoveries in deep sky astronomy. This includes the positions of famous spacecraft, the asteroid belt, and newly discovered exoplanets. Guests are immersed in the virtual reality of the universe, expanding their knowledge and appreciation of the cosmos.
By combining immersive stargazing experiences with educational insights into the history and science of astronomy, Shameem ensures that guests at Kudadoo Maldives Private Island embark on a celestial journey like no other. As the observatory nears completion, the promise of even more extraordinary astronomical encounters beckons, reinforcing the Maldives’ reputation as a celestial sanctuary where the wonders of the universe are brought to life.
Kudadoo Maldives Private Island by Hurawalhi, designed by Yuji Yamazaki, offers a sanctuary of serenity and luxury. With 15 exclusive Ocean Residences floating above the Indian Ocean, it redefines freedom with personal butlers available 24/7 to curate authentic experiences. From swimming with manta rays to beachside barbecues, Kudadoo blends effortless elegance with intimate luxury. Accessible
Amilla Maldives is hosting two visiting wellness practitioners during February and March, offering guests access to tailored therapies focused on balance, vitality and overall wellbeing.
Currently in residence, Francesc Miralles is at the resort from 30 January to 20 February 2026. An internationally recognised wellness consultant from Catalonia, he brings more than three decades of experience across Classical Chinese Medicine, physiotherapy and luxury hospitality. His approach integrates therapeutic movement, seasonal wellbeing and food as medicine, supporting guests in building resilience, restoring energy and achieving a sense of calm. During his residency, guests can book personalised sessions including physiotherapy, postural alignment, acupuncture, craniosacral therapy and facial acupuncture, alongside Harmonia classes focused on posture, mindfulness and longevity nutrition.
From 20 February to 25 March 2026, Francesc will be followed by Numthip Puntha, also known as Amp. A highly qualified physiotherapist from Thailand, she specialises in integrative therapies that combine Lifestyle Medicine, Sound Healing and Chi Nei Tsang. Her treatments are designed to support emotional release, detoxification and the restoration of the body’s natural energy flow. Guests will have the opportunity to experience healing massage, lymphatic drainage, Tibetan sound therapy, cranial release, Reiki and Chi Nei Tsang, as well as group sound bath sessions.
These visiting practitioner programmes form part of Amilla Maldives’ ongoing focus on personalised wellness, delivered within the resort’s tranquil island environment. Further information about the resort and its wellness offerings is available via the Amilla Maldives website.
As Valentine’s Day approaches, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort invites couples to celebrate their love story in one of the world’s most romantic settings. Nestled in the Maldives’ first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the resort has curated an exceptional collection of experiences, from intimate beachfront dining under the stars to rejuvenating couples’ spa rituals and exclusive romantic activities. Every detail has been thoughtfully designed to make Valentine’s Day a memory that lasts a lifetime.
For couples seeking the ultimate intimate experience, the resort’s Destination Dinner offers an unparalleled romantic journey by the beach. Set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, with the gentle sound of waves and a canopy of stars overhead, guests will indulge in a meticulously crafted seven-course premium tasting menu prepared by a dedicated private chef. This exclusive experience includes one bottle of premium champagne, a romantic beach setup, and a fresh flower bouquet to mark the special occasion. Each course is designed to delight the senses, combining fresh, seasonal ingredients that celebrate both international flavors and local Maldivian influences.
For those who appreciate the artistry of Japanese cuisine, The Pearl restaurant presents a special Valentine’s Day dinner featuring a five-course Japanese set menu showcasing premium ingredients and masterful preparation, complemented by one bottle of champagne to toast to love. Stunning ocean views add the perfect touch, creating a romantic atmosphere.
No romantic escape is complete without moments of pure relaxation and connection. The Westin Maldives’ Heavenly Spa Signature treatment for couples offers an immersive wellness experience designed to bring partners closer together. This treatment delivers effective and immediate relaxation through long, flowing movements and therapeutic techniques at various pressure levels, complemented by enriching oil blends that leave couples with an enhanced sense of well-being. In the tranquil sanctuary of the spa, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Maldives, couples can unwind together and reconnect on a deeper level.
The Valentine’s Day experience extends beyond dining and spa treatments. Couples can enhance their romantic getaway by embarking on a magical sunset cruise as the sun paints the sky in brilliant hues of orange and pink. Alternatively, couples can start the day with a private yoga session, where a wellness specialist guides them through mindfulness and movement.
To make this Valentine’s Day even more special, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort is offering the “Escape to More” package, featuring a complimentary upgrade to All-Inclusive meal plans with three meals per day, unlimited beverages, and minibar. Couples can retreat to expansive villas, each featuring the signature Westin Heavenly® Bed for restorative sleep, along with panoramic ocean views or direct lagoon access for private swimming and snorkelling.
Plan your romantic getaway at westin-maldives.com.
This Valentine’s Day, Maagiri Hotel invites couples and food lovers to celebrate romance with an indulgent dining experience and beautifully crafted desserts, thoughtfully curated to make the day truly special.
Maagiri Hotel will be hosting a Valentine’s Dinner featuring a full-day set menu, available during two dining periods: 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm for lunch and 7:00 pm to 11:30 pm for dinner. The specially designed 5 course menu offers a wide variety of exquisite dishes, perfectly paired with an elegant ambiance for an unforgettable Valentine’s celebration. From a refreshing welcome drink and comforting starters to elegant seafood or premium grilled meats, each dish is crafted to celebrate love. The evening concludes with handcrafted chocolates and warm beverages, creating a memorable and intimate celebration for couples.
In addition to the dining experience, Maagiri Hotel is also offering exclusive Valentine’s Day dessert boxes, ideal for gifting or sharing with your loved ones. Guests may choose from dessert boxes, each crafted with premium ingredients and artistic presentation:
- Mini Hearts Dessert Box–Four heart-shaped mini cakes featuring different exquisite flavours
- Macaron Box–A box of six handcrafted macarons filled with silky chocolate ganache
- Chocolate Covered Strawberries Box–Six fresh strawberries dipped in decadent silky chocolate
Celebrate love, indulgence, and togetherness this Valentine’s Day at Maagiri Hotel, where every detail is designed to create sweet memories.
Orders and reservations can be made by calling 331 8484 or 722 8484, or by texting via Viber on 722 8484.
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