Lifestyle
JOALI Maldives to host ‘artistic creativity’ kids summer camp

The first and only art-immersive resort in the Maldives has announced its 2024 Kids Summer Camp, taking place during 1 July through 31 August 2024. Surrounded by pristine white-sand beaches, brilliant blue waters and an island-wide art collection of one-of-a-kind installations and experiential pieces, JOALI Maldives Kids Summer Camp will spark creativity and allow kids’ imaginations to soar. Bringing families and young explorers on an unforgettable journey of artistic expression and learning in a breathtaking setting, the island will be joined by world-renowned artists who will further guide, inspire and educate throughout the summer.
Through JOALI Maldives joie de vivre, or “Joy of Living”, philosophy and ongoing commitments to immersion into the local landscape, art, and history of the island’s surroundings, the Kids Summer Camp along with the Muramas Kids Club at JOALI Maldives provides a unique opportunity for kids to develop a greater understanding of and appreciation for nature, wellness and the true joys of living. With a camp theme of ‘Choose Your Joy, Spark Your Creativity’, JOALI Maldives will be joined by international artists to create personalised experiences this summer:
- Emmanuel Deschodt, 8th to 14th July: From Paris, Emmanuel is an artist and a boxer, who blends the two for a dynamic approach to portraiture and performance art. During his time at JOALI Maldives, he will host wood painting workshops, boxing classes, as well as a live performance of his ‘Punch Portrait’, an expressive portrait that combine physicality with artistic expression.
- Karu Paper Studio, 15th to 21st July: Founder of Karu Paper Studio, Anouk Vigneau is a paper artist based in Lillie, Paris. Through cutting, pasting, folding, bending and more, Anouk creates pieces both big and small and will be offering five paper workshops during her time at JOALI Maldives.
- Gabriela Noelle, 5th to 11th August: A Cuban-American artist based in Miami in the United States, Gabriela’s interactive pieces inspire the viewer to see the world through the eyes of a child, from functional items to three-dimensional sculptures. At JOALI, Gabriela will host three workshops for kids and families to create pieces that prompt imagination, exercises curiosity, and creates a bond with their environment.
With each day bringing new possibilities at the Kids Summer Camp, this year’s itinerary is tailor-made for guests between the ages of 4 – 12, and will also include:
- Education & Sustainability: Kids will learn from JOALI’s resident sustainability experts on the importance of becoming a protector of the planet, and will organise eco-activities such as tree planting, organic gardening, as well as workshops on reducing plastic waste and conserving energy.
- Art Classes: In addition to workshops and classes with the visiting artists, kids will embrace their artistic side with JOALI’s resident artists who will teach pottery, photography, wood painting, marble, crystal art, and more.
- Island Immersion: Explore the fascinating plant life of the Maldives on an island walk, and stargaze with JOALI’s resident astronomer, identifying stars and planets in the night sky.
- Culture: Kids will have the opportunity to learn about the Maldivian local culture and rich heritage of the Maldives through traditional music and dance performances.
- Wellness: Wellness experiences during Kids’ Camp include making their own natural soaps and skincare products, yoga classes and boxing classes, all led by JOALI’s wellness experts.
- Culinary: Little Chefs can take part in cooking classes and learn to make sushi, sandwiches and two classic Maldivian dishes — Mas Huni and Huni Roshi.
- Sports & Games: Everyday is filled with games and sports activities such as padel tennis, foam parties, an ocean scavenger hunt with JOALI’s resident Marine Biologist, beach games and more.
While young visitors are at Kids Camp, parents will enjoy the many luxuries of the 73-villa island such as innovative dining concepts, exploring the spectacular sea life, destination programming, and more, including the newly refreshed wellness centre, JOALI BEING Cure, bringing guests the award-winning ‘weightlessness’ philosophy of JOALI BEING. With a selection of beach or overwater villas offering one, two, three and four-bedroom options, families will enjoy private pools, dedicated butlers known as “jadugars” (the Maldivian word for “magician”), bicycle rides around the island together, and memories to last a lifetime.
JOALI Maldives has villas from $2,928 per night based on two persons sharing a Water Villa with Pool on B&B basis. For further details and booking, please visit joali.com.
Lifestyle
Sonakshi Sinha & Zaheer Iqbal’s luxurious Maldivian retreat sparks fan frenzy

Bollywood actress Sonakshi Sinha and her husband Zaheer Iqbal recently indulged in a lavish getaway at the picturesque Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, creating a buzz among fans and followers. Accompanied by close friends, the couple flew to the tropical paradise to celebrate a joyous milestone—the 10th wedding anniversary of their dear friends Nirvana Chaudhary and Ashrayata.
Sinha, known for her engaging presence on social media, has been delighting fans with glimpses of her serene vacation. In a heartfelt Instagram post, she shared a collection of breathtaking images from their short yet memorable trip, captioning them:
“A minute in Maldives to celebrate love, life and the 10th wedding anniversary of our dear friends… reunited with old friends, made some new ones… this was our shortest trip there but the MOST special… Big shoutout to @tajmaldives for being the perfect venue for this one!”
The couple and their friends were seen embracing the island life, soaking in the pristine white sands and turquoise waters, with fans eagerly engaging with their vacation posts. For a deeper look into the escapade, Sinha shared a travel vlog on her official YouTube channel, titled “2 days in MALDIVES! #TravelVlog”, giving her followers an intimate peek into the retreat.
The celebration drew attention not only from fans but fellow celebrities as well. Actress Shilpa Shirodkar, Sinha’s co-star in the upcoming film Jatadhara, praised her stunning look, commenting, “Pretty pretty girl,” with a red heart emoji. Adding to the heartfelt moments, Sonakshi also posted a candid snapshot of Zaheer Iqbal sleeping, playfully captioning it “Tooo much cute,” giving fans a glimpse into their warm and loving relationship.
While enjoying this tropical respite, Sinha is also gearing up for her Telugu film debut in the supernatural fantasy thriller Jatadhara, directed by Venkat Kalyan. Co-starring Sudheer Babu, the film is set to explore the mysteries surrounding the Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple. Produced under the Zee Studios banner, the film’s ensemble cast includes Shilpa Shirodkar, Rain Anjali, and Divya Vij.
As Sonakshi Sinha returns to her professional commitments, fans eagerly await more updates on both her cinematic ventures and personal adventures.
Entertainment
The Presets to ignite nights in exclusive Kandooma Maldives showcase in April 2026

Imagine your favourite music festival—but swap muddy fields for white sands, palm trees, and crystal-clear waters. In April 2026, acclaimed electronic duo The Presets will trade stadiums and festival crowds for an exclusive beachfront series of shows at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, offering fans an intimate, once-in-a-lifetime island escape curated by Music in Paradise.
From Coachella to Splendour in the Grass, The Presets—Julian Hamilton and Kim Moyes—have made their mark on the global stage. But this time, they’re doing things differently. From 11–18 April 2026, fans will experience a week of sun-drenched luxury capped off by three electrifying live performances, including a sunset DJ set on the beach and an exclusive rooftop party at the resort’s Sunset Bar.
“We’re beyond excited to host The Presets at Kandooma,” said Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. “Their energy, talent, and incredible live shows are a perfect match for our vibrant island setting. Guests can expect something truly unforgettable.”
With a career spanning two decades, The Presets are electronic music royalty in Australia. Their breakout 2008 album Apocalypso went triple platinum and produced the festival anthem “My People.” With multiple ARIA Awards, APRA Songwriter of the Year titles, and collaborations like the RAKA EP with Golden Features under their belt, the duo continues to shape the sound of electronic music worldwide.
Their 2018 album HI VIZ soared to the top of iTunes within hours of release and included hits like “Do What You Want” and “Martini,” both nominated for major Australian music prizes.
Fans can now secure the Early Bird Gold Experience Package for A$3,790 per person (twin share) for seven nights in a Beach Villa—saving over $1,000. This VIP experience includes:
- Entry to 3 Nightly Exclusive Events
- 3 Intimate Performances
- Meet & Greet with artists
- Professional Photo with artists
- Music in Paradise Welcome Bag
- Music in Paradise Event Poster
- Event commemorative t-shirt
- Return shared Speedboat airport transfers
- Welcome drink and cold towel on arrival
- Delicious buffet breakfast daily at Kandooma Café
- Tea, coffee & bottled water in-villa, and replenished daily
- Complimentary snorkel trip & use of snorkelling gear
- Music in Paradise Traveller Care Guarantee
Additional packages offering different villa types are also available exclusively from Music in Paradise here. All packages exclude airfares.
Celebration
Family fun and Maldivian traditions await this Eid at Summer Island Maldives

This Eid al-Adha, Summer Island Maldives extends an exclusive ‘Eid Bliss’ offer to Maldivians and work permit holders, inviting them to unwind and celebrate. Located just 45 minutes by speedboat from Malé, this tropical island provides a barefoot escape ideal for those seeking simplicity and comfort.
Available for stays between 5th and 15th June 2025, the limited-time Eid offer includes full board accommodation starting at just USD 250 per night for two adults (minimum two-night stay), inclusive of all taxes and service charges.
For guests planning a longer stay, the rate is reduced to USD 225 per night for stays of four nights or more. Those looking for a shorter retreat can book one-night stays at USD 290. Families can especially benefit from this offer, as one child under 12 stays free, making it the perfect Eid retreat for relaxation, reconnection, and the creation of lasting memories.
Guests booking the Eid offer will enjoy:
- Full board meals at Samuga Restaurant
- Evening tea at Nevi Bar
- Complimentary return speedboat transfers
- 30% off spa treatments and water sports
- 20% off excursions and beach dinners
- 15% off à la carte dining, in-villa dining, and bar snacks
On Eid Day – Friday, 6th June 2025 – the island will come alive with colourful Maldivian traditions. Guests can look forward to the spirited rhythms of Bodu Beru, the dramatic folklore of Bodu Mas & Koadi, and the lively procession of Dhafi Negun, all complemented by Summer Island’s signature warm and welcoming touch.
“Eid celebrations are a big deal at Summer Island Maldives and are especially popular among our local guests,” said Mohamed Thaufeeq, Resort Manager of Summer Island Maldives. “This year, we are once again preparing to mark the occasion with traditional cultural activities and our signature Summer Island spirit. Whether planning a family retreat or a peaceful escape to recharge and reconnect with a loved one, this is the perfect time to experience the island’s joyful Eid atmosphere.”
Rooted in genuine Maldivian hospitality, Summer Island Maldives welcomes all to celebrate the spirit of Eid in a setting where simplicity, nature, and heartfelt service come together.
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