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Hawksbill Turtle nests protected at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives

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Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has taken steps to secure the nests of hundreds of eggs from a returning Hawksbill Turtle who has selected the western shores of the private island paradise as her nesting beach.

“We are thrilled to have discovered the nest which is a good indication that the turtles feel safe and welcome at Kandooma,” said Mark Eletr, General Manager, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives.

“The Hawksbill Sea Turtles are critically endangered and it’s our responsibility to protect our environment, ecosystems and keep these beautiful creatures safe. Education plays a big part in what we do at Kandooma helping our guests to understand the journey and how precious the nests are.”

Hawksbill Sea Turtles (Eretmochelys Imbricate) have the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List Status as critically endangered. The turtles are understood to live 30-50 years and range in size from 66 to 95cm at maturity. Maturity is not defined by age, it varies and depends on food availability. The turtles, carnivores, mate approximately every two years in secluded lagoons off their nesting beaches. They nest two to five times per season and in the Maldives with the warm Indian Ocean the females lay an average of 100 to 180 eggs per nest. The incubation period is approximately two months.

Mark explains that the turtles go from the water up the beaches to the vegetation line to nest. When nesting is not spotted in progress, shallow track marks left in the sand up to 85cm wide with the telltale symmetrical marks that the forelimbs make are a solid indication.

“Our team will now monitor the nests and as it becomes closer to the big day when the eggs hatch, the protective nets around the nests will be removed to allow the baby turtles to start their life’s journey. It’s pretty neat to see, albeit from a distance,” Mark said.

Mark explains that the Resort has some simple rules in place at the island regarding hatchlings including no bright lights, no loud noises, take care where you walk, and if you see a hatchling disoriented or heading inland, gently turn it around to face the sea and alert one of the staff. The nests are fenced to protect them from people stepping on the nest as it is soft sand from top to bottom. The hatched turtles have to climb out of the nest as they mimic swimming in the sea.

“Only 1 in 1,000 will make it to maturity. The turtles have many predators, among them humans, sharks, triggerfish and grouper, while discarded nets known as Ghost nets as well as erosion are also a threat,” adds Mark.

Located in the South Male atoll just 40 minutes from the airport by boat, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is a beautiful, natural island paradise.  White sand beaches, swaying coconut palms and turquoise waters form the backdrop for leisure pursuits and some of the best scuba diving in the Maldives. Guests can choose from Garden and Beach Villas, two-storey Beach Houses and the popular Overwater Villas.  Families are well catered for with a choice of 2- and 3-bed villas and the Kandoo Kids’ Club with its fun activities programme.  Six food and beverage outlets ensure healthy appetites are satisfied and the flavours of the Maldives are explored.  Guests seeking time out and relaxation will enjoy sun-loungers and hammocks dotted around the island.  Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala offers a tranquil escape for body and mind.

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SO/ Maldives earns full Green Globe recertification, strengthening position in sustainable luxury

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SO/ Maldives has announced a significant sustainability milestone with its perfect 100% Green Globe recertification score, reaffirming the resort’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and innovative green practices. This achievement continues a journey that began well before the resort welcomed its first guests. In November 2024, SO/ Maldives earned the prestigious Green Globe certification in its very first year of operation, demonstrating an exceptional dedication to integrating sustainable principles into the core of its fashion-forward and design-led identity. Guided by Ennismore’s ESG mission, the resort has consistently showcased how bold eco-conscious innovation can elevate the luxury hospitality experience.

From the outset, SO/ Maldives has implemented thoughtful and forward-thinking initiatives that minimise its carbon footprint, reduce waste, support the local ecosystem and empower both its team and surrounding communities. The flawless 2025 recertification score reflects excellence across all sustainability indicators, supported by impactful measures such as the installation of solar panels across villas, restaurants and operational areas, generating up to 45% of the resort’s total energy. Intelligent GRMS technology further optimizes energy consumption by regulating air-conditioning, lighting and occupancy-based usage.

As SO/ Maldives continues to redefine luxury through purpose and innovation, the resort is also proud to be recognised as part of the Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs) a global framework dedicated to safeguarding biodiversity beyond traditional protected areas. This milestone underscores the resort’s deep commitment to environmental stewardship, championing long-term sustainability practices that preserve both the island’s natural beauty and its ecological integrity.

Through ongoing marine protection initiatives, habitat monitoring, and low-impact operational strategies, SO/ Maldives is actively contributing to the protection of local wildlife while fostering the natural regeneration of coral ecosystems. These efforts support thriving marine life, encourage healthy reef development, and reinforce the resort’s mission to protect the environment for future generations.

By aligning luxury hospitality with meaningful conservation, SO/ Maldives continues to lead with purpose where indulgence, innovation, and environmental responsibility coexist in perfect island harmony.

Waste management has been another cornerstone of the resort’s success. SO/ Maldives enforces comprehensive waste segregation and has partnered with Parley to upcycle plastic waste into high-performance materials used by Adidas in footwear and apparel. Additionally, collaborations with Secure Maldives ensure responsible recycling of metal waste. The resort also champions eco-conscious product choices: CODAGE bathroom amenities feature vegan, sustainably sourced formulas packaged in recyclable materials, while Palatino supplies 100% compostable bamboo and FSC-certified wooden in-villa amenities, including slippers and personal care items.

Food sustainability is deeply embedded into the resort’s culinary philosophy. SO/ Maldives utilises advanced digesters to liquefy food waste for responsible disposal, implements dedicated composting systems, and leverages Orbisk technology to monitor consumption and reduce waste. By sourcing ingredients locally from seafood to fresh produce the resort supports Maldivian communities and reduces carbon emissions. Its buffet-free approach promotes curated à la carte experiences that minimise food waste while enhancing guest satisfaction.

In true SO/ fashion, the resort merges sustainability with style. Each villa features bespoke artworks by Thai artist Ploenchan Vinyaratn, crafted from surplus yarn and recycled materials, blending elevated design with eco-friendly practices. The resort has also fully eliminated single-use plastics, further solidifying its position as a leader in sustainable hospitality.

The perfect Green Globe recertification is a tribute to the passionate SO/ Maldives team whose creativity, commitment and innovation ensure that environmental responsibility and guest happiness go hand in hand. SO/ Maldives extends its gratitude to its partners and guests for choosing to support its sustainability journey. As the resort continues to push boundaries and redefine island luxury, it remains steadfast in harmonizing bold design, exceptional service and meaningful environmental impact, celebrating the artistry of hospitality through green living.

For more information or to book your perfect getaway, please visit SO-Maldives.com or contact SO.Maldives.Reservations@so-hotels.com.

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Milaidhoo Maldives introduces tranquil 3-day detox experience for New Year

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Milaidhoo Maldives invites guests to begin the year feeling grounded and attuned to what truly matters, blending barefoot informality with a mindful approach to living. As the festive season draws to a close, the island encourages visitors to slow down, reconnect with the essentials and embrace a sense of calm through its New Year Renewal – 3-Day Detox Journey.

Curated for those seeking balance and inner harmony after the holidays, the programme nurtures both body and mind through gentle, restorative treatments featuring the acclaimed Aromatherapy Associates range. At Milaidhoo, wellbeing unfolds with intention, inviting guests to adopt the island’s unhurried rhythm and rediscover serenity.

Day 1 – Grounding & Harmonising

The experience begins with a personalised 15-minute holistic wellbeing consultation, ensuring each ritual aligns with individual needs. This is followed by a welcome ritual combining aromatherapy inhalations and cocoon meditation to ease the body and mind into a peaceful state.

Day 2 – Detox & Revitalise

Guests continue their journey with a private eucalyptus-infused steam ritual designed to invigorate and support immunity. An Aromatherapy Associates Detox Body Mud Wrap follows, offering purification and toning benefits, while a Wellbeing Facial restores both skin and spirit, leaving guests refreshed.

Day 3 – Renewed Energy & Inner Calm

The final day includes a Detox & Drainage Massage to enhance circulation and lymphatic flow, releasing tension and heaviness. A 30-minute sound healing session further promotes deep relaxation and renewed lightness. Guests depart with personalised stretching and mindful breathing exercises to maintain balance long after their stay.

Priced at USD 550++ per guest (240 minutes), the New Year Renewal reflects Milaidhoo’s philosophy of slow, meaningful living—a tranquil pause from everyday life. Each experience is thoughtfully designed to reconnect guests with themselves, their surroundings and the natural rhythm of life in the Maldives.

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Marriott Maldives resorts secure top rankings in Condé Nast Traveller Middle East 2025

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Marriott International has announced that three Luxury Group resorts within the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio in the Maldives have been recognised in the inaugural Condé Nast Traveller Middle East Readers’ Choice Awards 2025. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, and W Maldives were honoured in key categories across this first regional edition.

Voted by discerning and adventure loving readers throughout the region, these accolades celebrate the commitment of hospitality professionals who deliver thoughtful service and memorable moments. In the Favourite Overseas Leisure Hotels category, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands secured the number two ranking, while JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa earned the number four ranking. Both resorts continue to welcome guests with refined design, private villa accommodations, inventive culinary journeys, and signature programming that reflects the rhythm and spirit of the Maldives. Designed by Kerry Hill Architects, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is shaped by the ocean forces, wind, and waves, with contemporary villas that blend intuitive luxury with the essence of island living. JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa is distinguished by its spacious overwater and beach pool villas, celebrated dining, and the warm, genuine service that defines the JW Marriott brand.

Ranked number five in the Favourite Destination Spas category, The Ritz-Carlton Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is recognized for its distinctive ring-shaped design set above a tranquil lagoon and for wellness experiences inspired by the elemental power of water and the natural harmony of its surroundings. AWAY Spa at W Maldives, ranked tenth in this category, is recognized for its vibrant approach to wellness, panoramic lagoon views, and personalised treatments that encourage guests to relax, recharge, and experience the playful spirit that defines the resort.

The awards also named the Maldives the number one Favourite Overseas Leisure Destination, reaffirming the islands as a preferred choice for travellers seeking natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and immersive experiences across the Indian Ocean.

Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of resorts in the Maldives comprises of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives Fari Islands, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, W Maldives, JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa and Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa. Each resort is located on its own private island and offering the ultimate dream getaway. For further information, visit the website here.

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