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Universal Resorts Maldives joins exclusive Hilton and Small Luxury Hotels of the World partnership

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Universal Resorts, comprising Milaidhoo, Baros, Velassaru, and Huvafen  Fushi resorts, has announced its inclusion in the prestigious partnership between Hilton and  Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH). Starting today, these four Universal Resort properties will  be available to Hilton Honors members and guests on all Hilton direct booking channels, including  Hilton.com and the Hilton Honors app. This collaboration further enriches Hilton Honors members  and guests’ travel experiences.  

With this new alliance, Hilton Honors members can explore the captivating beauty and excellent  service of Universal Resorts’ four iconic Maldivian properties. Hilton Honors members will also  enjoy exclusive on-property benefits throughout their SLH experience, enhancing every aspect of  their stay.  

Milaidhoo Maldives  

Milaidhoo Maldives is a pristine island paradise rooted in local island traditions, and located in Baa  Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This boutique luxury resort features 50 Maldivian-style  overwater and beach pool villas and luxury residences, custom-designed for comfort by renowned  Maldivian architect, Mohamed Shafeeq. Stand-out leisure activities include over-water spa  treatments, sunset dolphin cruises, and house reef snorkelling excursions. Dining is a highlight, with  Milaidhoo being home to three unique restaurants, including the signature fine dining restaurant,  Ba’theli. Milaidhoo is the authentic Maldives, a resort of re-invented luxury, where guests feel they  belong, experiencing bare-foot informality within a natural tropical island setting.  

Baros Maldives  

Baros Maldives exudes a sense of timeless sophistication, where every detail is curated to create an  atmosphere of peace and tranquility. Situated amidst lush tropical greenery and azure waters, the  resort is a haven for those seeking to indulge in the Maldivian way of life. The resort’s elegant villas,  each featuring private verandas and direct access to the beach or lagoon, offer a secluded retreat  enveloped by nature. Guests can partake in bespoke experiences such as private sandbank dinners,  marine biologist-led snorkelling tours, and rejuvenating spa treatments inspired by local traditions.  With its commitment to sustainability and exceptional service, Baros Maldives remains a beloved  choice for discerning travellers year after year.  

Velassaru Maldives  

Velassaru Maldives is set against a scenic backdrop of turquoise waters and pristine white sands. An  idyllic escape that seamlessly blends contemporary luxury with the island’s natural beauty. The  resort’s chic bungalows and villas, many of which feature private pools and direct beach access, offer  a modern sanctuary for relaxation. Culinary delights abound with five diverse dining venues, each  providing a unique gastro-journey. Guests can immerse themselves in a plethora of activities,  including thrilling water sports, exploratory diving sessions, and adventurous cruises. 

Huvafen Fushi Maldives  

Huvafen Fushi Maldives is a haven of innovation and luxury, featuring the world’s first underwater  spa and breathtaking underwater dining. This naturally enchanting resort promises a multi-sensory  experience, blending cutting-edge design with the natural wonders of the Maldives. Guests can  indulge in exquisite culinary delights, relax in stunning overwater bungalows, and explore vibrant  coral reefs teeming with marine life. The resort offers personalised services and exclusive amenities,  ensuring every moment is memorable.  

“We’re excited to be part of this amazing partnership,” said Visha Mahir, Chief Operations Officer at  Universal Resorts. “This collaboration allows us to showcase our properties to Hilton’s global  audience and offer Hilton Honors members unique and enriching experiences that reflect the beauty  and culture of the Maldives.” 

Discover the Maldives through the lens of Universal Resorts where authenticity, sustainability, and  local culture come together to create unforgettable journeys for discerning travellers.  

Awards

Mandara Spa at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa receives global wellness award

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Mandara Spa at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives has been awarded the Best Traditional Healing Spa 2026 title at the Luxuri Awards, recognising its consistent approach to wellness rooted in time-honoured practices and thoughtful guest care.

Set within the tranquil surroundings of Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives, Mandara Spa has built a reputation for offering restorative experiences that draw on traditional Balinese healing techniques. The recognition reflects the team’s continued focus on creating a calm, unhurried environment where each treatment is delivered with care, precision, and attention to detail.

A secluded retreat within the island’s natural landscape in Meemu Atoll, the spa introduces a subtle touch of Bali through its open, calming design. Comprising four double treatment villas and a dedicated manicure and pedicure area, the space is designed to encourage guests to fully disconnect and unwind. The spa experience is shaped by a blend of signature Mandara Spa therapies and ELEMIS treatments, a British luxury skincare brand known for combining advanced scientific formulations with naturally derived ingredients.

This recognition at the Luxuri Awards 2026 highlights Mandara Spa’s ongoing commitment to delivering meaningful wellness experiences, while reinforcing Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts’ broader focus on thoughtful, experience-led hospitality across its Maldives portfolio.

For those looking to experience this award-winning wellness offering, Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives is currently extending a seasonal offer with added travel benefits. Guests can enjoy complimentary round-trip domestic flight transfers on stays of seven nights or more, and complimentary one-way transfers for shorter stays. The offer is available for bookings made until 31 October 2026, with stay dates valid from 1 April 2026 to 31 October 2027.

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The Standard, Maldives introduces Onda with Mediterranean-inspired menu

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The wait is over. The Standard, Maldives is set to celebrate the opening of Onda, a bold new Mediterranean dining destination redefining island dining, on 5 April 2026.

Designed for sharing, lingering, and celebrating, Onda brings a fresh rhythm to the island’s culinary scene, blending vibrant flavours with The Standard’s signature approach: elevated, expressive, and never overdone. Named after the Italian word for wave, Onda captures a sense of movement, flow, and effortless energy.

From the moment guests arrive, the restaurant invites them to let go of convention and lean into a dining experience that feels vibrant, relaxed, and deeply connected to its surroundings. This is Mediterranean cuisine stripped of pretence: bold, fresh, soulful, and designed to be shared.

A Concept Rooted in Flow and Freedom

Onda was conceived as an antidote to traditional resort dining. There are no rigid rituals here, no formal stiffness, just the pleasure of great food, good company, and a front-row seat to the Indian Ocean. The concept is built around the idea of flow: the flow of waves, of conversation, of plates moving effortlessly from kitchen to table.

“Onda is a pure expression of The Standard’s playful, unconventional spirit,” says Justin Swart, General Manager of The Standard, Maldives. “We didn’t want to create another ‘fine-dining’ restaurant. We wanted something alive, a place that feels exciting, approachable, and rooted in flavour. Our ambition is for Onda to be recognised as the best Mediterranean restaurant in the region, delivering not just incredible food, but an experience that’s energetic, flowing, and full of life.”

Guests can savour a selection of fresh creations, including Bouillabaisse Scampi, offering a harmonious balance of umami depth and the freshness of the sea; Red Snapper Crudo with Citrus and Daikon, highlighting the purity of Maldivian waters with subtle Mediterranean accents; and Wahoo Carpaccio with Black Pepper and Tomato, a familiar classic reimagined with vibrant simplicity and restraint. Each plate reflects a collective commitment to generosity, balance, and pleasure.

Design Inspired by a Day at Sea

The design of Onda mirrors the feeling of being out on the water. Light, open, and breezy, the space is shaped by natural textures, fluid lines, and an effortless indoor-outdoor connection. Every element, from the seating layout to the ocean-facing views, is designed to draw guests into the surrounding seascape.

As daylight fades, Onda transitions seamlessly from sun-lit lunches to golden-hour dinners, with the ocean setting the pace. The atmosphere is elevated yet easy, striking a balance between refined design and relaxed island energy, a signature hallmark of The Standard brand.

The People Behind the Plate

At the heart of Onda is a belief that memorable dining is shaped not only by what is served, but by the people who bring it to life. From the kitchen to the floor, Onda is driven by a team united by craft, curiosity, and a shared respect for ingredients, tradition, and the rhythm of island life.

Beyond the cuisine, it is the atmosphere and human connection that define the Onda experience. Service is guided by The Standard’s signature human touch: warm, intuitive, and genuinely attuned to each guest. The team moves with ease and personality, creating an environment that feels welcoming, relaxed, and alive, where energy flows naturally from table to table.

Completing the experience is a carefully curated beverage programme that mirrors the same sense of freshness and flow, ensuring that the spirit of Onda extends seamlessly from the first sip to the final moment. Together, the people behind Onda create an experience that feels purposeful yet effortless, rooted in connection, shaped by care, and designed to be shared.

A New Benchmark for Island Dining

Onda marks a new chapter for The Standard, Maldives, one that challenges expectations and sets a fresh benchmark for contemporary island dining. Guests and visitors are warmly invited to take their place at the table, share in the rhythm of Mediterranean flavours, and experience dining that is designed to be savoured, celebrated, and enjoyed together.

Whether for an intimate evening or a lively gathering, Onda welcomes all who appreciate good food, great company, and moments that linger long after the last bite. The new wave of Mediterranean dining has arrived at The Standard, Maldives. And Onda is here to stay.

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Awards

COLOURS OF OBLU marks triple win in global guest-driven awards

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COLOURS OF OBLU celebrates a triple distinction as OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO and OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi have been honoured with the HolidayCheck Award 2026, recognising the resorts among the world’s best-rated accommodations based entirely on verified guest reviews, while OBLU SELECT Lobigili has been awarded the DERTOUR Red Star Quality Award 2025.

The recognition places Lobigili among the top 150 most popular hotels worldwide within the DERTOUR Group portfolio. DERTOUR, one of Germany’s leading tour operators, bases this award on direct guest feedback and booking performance, highlighting exceptional holiday quality and guest satisfaction.

The HolidayCheck Awards are among the most recognised accolades in the travel industry, honouring hotels and resorts worldwide that consistently receive outstanding guest feedback. Organised by HolidayCheck, one of the leading travel review platforms in Europe, properties recognised through the awards stand out for delivering exceptional holiday experiences, high service standards, and memorable stays for guests across global destinations.

OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO, renowned for its thriving house reef and immersive diving experiences, achieved an impressive guest rating of 5.6 out of 6, reaffirming its status as one of the Maldives’ most loved island escapes. Guests praise its barefoot charm, warm hospitality, and easy access to vibrant marine life, while the resort’s ongoing coral restoration initiatives further enhance its commitment to preserving the rich underwater ecosystem, making it a favourite among nature lovers and underwater enthusiasts.

“We are honoured that OBLU NATURE Helengeli has been recognised with the HolidayCheck Award 2026. Known for its thriving house reef and authentic island charm, the resort offers guests a truly immersive Maldivian experience. This recognition from travellers is a testament to the dedication of our team and the unforgettable natural beauty that makes the island so special,” said Alain Trefois, General Manager, OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO.

Meanwhile, OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi, just a short speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, achieved a strong guest rating of 5.4 out of 6, reflecting its growing appeal among families, couples, and groups. With its lively atmosphere, diverse dining, and value-driven offerings, the resort continues to attract travellers seeking fun, relaxation, and effortless island escapes.

In contrast, OBLU SELECT Lobigili offers a more refined, adults-only escape, designed for couples seeking privacy, romance, and elevated experiences, featuring the iconic ONLY BLU under ocean restaurant, further complementing the diverse appeal of the COLOURS OF OBLU portfolio.

“Receiving the Award is a proud moment for our team at Ailafushi. Alongside this, the recognition of Lobigili highlights our strong partnerships with German tour operators and our ability to consistently deliver experiences that appeals for this key market segment. Our goal has always been to create a vibrant and welcoming island escape where guests can relax, connect, and enjoy the Maldives in a fun and effortless way. This recognition, based on genuine guest feedback, means a great deal to us and reflects the passion our team brings to every guest experience,” added David Alan Burley, General Manager, OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi and OBLU SELECT Lobigili.

Complementing these achievements, this recognition further underscores Atmosphere Core’s strong partnerships with German stakeholders and its ability to consistently deliver experiences that resonate with this discerning market. Together, these accolades reflect the dedication of the exceptional teams across the portfolio, whose commitment to genuine hospitality and attention to detail continues to elevate guest experiences.

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