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Sun, Sea, and Surf Therapy: Kuda Villingili partners with The Wave Project

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The importance of ‘green spaces’ for mental health is a well-documented phenomenon, however recent study’s have found how impactful blue spaces are. Pan-European research initiative ‘Blue Health’ launched an investigation into the effect of ‘blue spaces’ on health from 2016 to 2020. They found: “A greater exposure to blue spaces correlates with improved mental health, wellbeing and more physical activity” (Dr Mireia Gascon). Even more intriguing, blue spaces have the edge over green because of water’s uniquely psychologically restorative effect.

Recognised by the NHS and prescribed by doctors to children in the UK, surf therapy has become an established form of therapeutic support in the UK. Spending time in nature, especially in these ‘blue spaces’, is proven to reduce the production of stress hormones, cortisol, and epinephrine. This, combined with the benefits of physical activity and the satisfaction of learning a new skill, makes surfing an unconventional and exciting new method of treatment.

Kuda Villingili is collaborating with UK-based charity, The Wave Project, to bring surf therapy to the one of the most beautiful blue spaces in the world: the Maldives. The Wave Project strive to transform the lives of young people with many years proving how getting in the sea, surfing and having fun in the water makes a measurable difference to young people’s health and wellbeing. This summer, the Wave Project will be leading thrilling surf retreats during their residency at the resort.

Whilst the Maldives is celebrated for its crystal-clear waters and bright-white beaches, its potential as a surfing hot-spot is often overlooked. Kuda Villingili is, in fact, one of the best located resorts in the Maldives for surfers. Mere moments away from the famed Chicken’s Break, the long, lively left can hold swells from 3ft to well over 10ft and provide wave rides up to an impressive 500m long.

Kuda Villingili’s Soul Searching at Chickens Retreats will explore how these ‘blue spaces’ can provide such impact on the mental health and wellbeing on young people, focusing on outdoor activities to explore the Maldives renowned beauty and nature. With a focus on mindfulness and breathwork as well as exhilarating excursions from surfing and paddle boarding to yoga and meditation, guests are invited on this journey to experience the wonders for the water and truly immerse themselves in such idyllic blue spaces.

Soul Searching at Chickens will be running from 26th July – 26th August, to view the Soul Searching at Chickens brochure access Soul Searching at Chicken – Surf Retreat and to book onto the retreats email reservations@kudavillingili.com.

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Angsana Velavaru introduces curated day visit packages

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Angsana Velavaru has introduced a curated collection of day visit experiences, inviting guests to step into the rhythm of island life, even if only for a day. Designed for those seeking a brief yet meaningful escape, the new offerings combine relaxation, dining, and wellness within the resort’s expansive lagoon setting.

Set against the backdrop of white sands and turquoise waters in the South Nilandhe Atoll, Angsana Velavaru’s day visit experiences present an opportunity to pause, unwind, and reconnect. Guests may choose to spend their day by the pool, enjoying access to the resort’s facilities while taking in uninterrupted ocean views. A leisurely lunch unfolds at either Kaani restaurant or Kuredhi bar, accompanied by a selection of beverages, creating a relaxed and effortless dining experience by the sea.

For those seeking a more private retreat, the beachfront villa day experience offers a tranquil setting framed by lush greenery and direct access to the beach. Thoughtfully designed for comfort and seclusion, the beach villa experience allows guests to enjoy their own space while still being connected to the island’s vibrant surroundings.

Wellbeing remains at the heart of the experience, with guests invited to indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, complemented by exclusive privileges throughout the day. Whether spent lounging poolside, enjoying a private villa escape, or simply embracing the natural beauty of the Maldives, each experience is shaped by a sense of ease and balance.

Available from 01 May to 30 September 2026, the day visit package offers a seamless way to experience Angsana Velavaru’s distinctive island setting within a limited timeframe, making it an ideal option for residents and visitors alike.

At its core, the day visit experience reflects Angsana Velavaru’s philosophy of creating moments that are both simple and memorable—where time slows, and the essence of island life can be felt in every detail.

To learn more about Angsana Velavaru, please visit the resort’s website.

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Thomas Ling returns to The St. Regis Maldives for two-day sake series

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This October, guests of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort are invited to immerse themselves in the refined world of Japanese gastronomy as Thomas Ling, Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador and internationally acclaimed sake authority, returns for an exclusive two day sake experience celebrating culture, craftsmanship, and culinary artistry.

Curated on the secluded shores of Vommuli Island, the experience offers discerning traveler intimate access to one of Japan’s most respected voices in the world of Nihonshu, set against a backdrop of pristine natural beauty and serene seclusion.

Conferred by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan as a Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador—an honour shared among a select circle of global culinary luminaries including Nobu Matsuhisa and Tetsuya Wakuda—Thomas Ling has further received the Ambassador’s Commendation Award from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. With more than 24 years of refined expertise, he is celebrated for his dedication to promoting Japan’s “Kokushu,” the national collective heritage beverages of sake, shochu, and awamori, while safeguarding the cultural traditions that define them.

This collaboration forms part of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort’s Tastemaker Series, which brings together influential global talents to one of the Maldives’ most captivating private island destinations. The programme continues to define the resort as a place where creativity, excellence, and cultural expression converge, offering guests rare opportunities to connect with leading voices across culinary arts, fine wine, mixology, wellness, and sport.

A Curated Programme of Japanese Artistry

The experience begins on 5 October with an intimate Sake Masterclass hosted at T•Pan, the resort’s refined Japanese dining venue. Designed for a maximum of just 12 guests, the complimentary session offers an in depth exploration of premium sakes, guided by Ling’s expert commentary on brewing techniques, regional expression, and cultural significance.

The programme begins on 5 October with an intimate Sake Masterclass at T•Pan, hosted by Thomas Ling. Taking place from 15:00 to 16:00, the complimentary experience is limited to 12 guests, offering a rare opportunity to explore premium sakes through expert insight into craftsmanship, regional expression, and cultural significance.

On 6 October, guests are invited to indulge in a meticulously curated four course Sake Pairing Dinner at Orientale, where contemporary Japanese cuisine is elevated through thoughtful pairings that enhance flavour, texture, and balance. Designed as a one night only experience, the evening celebrates harmony between dish and drink in the spirit of true omotenashi.

The Four Course Sake Pairing Dinner will be served from 19:00 to 22:30, priced at USD 295++ per person.

For more information and details, please visit www.stregismaldives.com.

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The Standard, Maldives secures dual recognition from Condé Nast Traveller

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2026 stands as a milestone year for The Standard, Maldives, as the resort receives international recognition from both the UK and US editions of Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards, reaffirming its position as one of the Maldives’ most distinctive natural island destinations. Voted for by discerning global travellers, these accolades reflect the resort’s strong performance across key areas valued by readers—ranging from location and design to dining, wellness, and the overall quality of the guest experience.

Set on a 100% natural island with direct access to a vibrant house reef, The Standard, Maldives continues to stand out for its rare balance of unspoiled surroundings and personality‑driven hospitality. Guests are drawn to an environment where barefoot island living, intuitive service, and expressive design come together, elements that consistently resonate with Condé Nast Traveller readers seeking destinations that feel both authentic and memorable.

Adding to this momentum is the opening of Onda, the resort’s signature overwater Mediterranean restaurant. Set above the living lagoon, Onda introduces a new culinary rhythm to the island, celebrating fresh ingredients, expressive flavours, and a relaxed, social approach to dining. As dining remains a key consideration for Readers’Choice voters, Onda strengthens the resort’s culinary profile while complementing its existing portfolio of island-inspired, beachfront, and all-day dining experiences.

Wellness also plays a central role in the recognition, with The Standard Spa offering experiences that go beyond the expected. Personalised wellness programmes are tailored to individual needs, incorporating restorative treatments such as Kansa Wand Massage, Reiki Pranic Healing, Shirodhara, and The Standard’s signature Turkish Hammam and Steam experience: stylish, playful, and refreshingly unforced. This flexible, guest‑led approach to well‑being aligns with the growing emphasis placed by Condé Nast Traveller audiences on meaningful, restorative travel.

The resort’s Premium All‑Inclusive offering further enhances its appeal, providing seamless access to the full range of dining and lifestyle experiences across the island. From authentic Maldivian cuisine at Guduguda and Mediterranean specialities at Onda to smoky beachfront barbecue at BBQ Shak and themed all‑day dining that changes daily at Kula, guests enjoy variety, quality, and ease, an increasingly important factor for travellers evaluating overall value and experience.

With global accolades from Condé Nast Traveller UK and US, the opening of Onda, a strong wellness identity, and consistently positive guest feedback, The Standard, Maldives enters 2026 with confidence and clarity. These recognitions underscore the resort’s ability to deliver not just a place to stay, but an island experience defined by character, creativity, and a genuine connection to its surroundings—shaping a new standard for contemporary island living in the Maldives.

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