Featured
Chef Kazuki Arai brings his expertise to Nova Maldives
This November, Nova Maldives invites lovers of Japanese cuisine to embark on an exquisite culinary journey at Mizu, the island resort’s intimate overwater teppanyaki restaurant. Set against the stunning backdrop of the South Ari Atoll’s glistening lagoons, guests are treated to a refined dining experience curated by renowned Japanese chef Kazuki Arai.
From November 18th to 22nd, Mizu will host an exclusive dining activation in collaboration with celebrated chef Kazuki Arai, where guests can enjoy artfully crafted set menus paired with premium sake. Additionally, there will be a unique opportunity for participants to join bespoke cooking classes led by Chef Arai in the serene ambience of Nova. This event promises a sophisticated dining experience, ideal for couples seeking to reconnect and create unforgettable memories, surrounded by panoramic views of turquoise waters.
Chef Kazuki Arai brings a wealth of experience in Japanese culinary arts, having recently launched a new venture focused on using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients from Gunma Prefecture. His innovative approach celebrates Gunma’s rich agricultural heritage, including the creation of award-winning bento boxes that highlight the connection between local producers and consumers. His commitment to sustainability and passion for Japanese gastronomic traditions make this event a true celebration of food, community, and culture.
At Mizu, guests can anticipate a dining experience where every dish tells a story, showcasing the freshest local ingredients paired with harmonious sake selections. As the sun sets over the horizon, Mizu transforms into a magical setting for dinner, with the sound of rolling waves and the soft glow of twinkling stars enhancing the atmosphere.
The Mizu dining experience will feature a specially curated set menu designed to tantalise taste buds and immerse guests in the essence of Japan’s seafood-rich culinary tradition. In addition, guests will have the opportunity to participate in a hands-on cooking class, where they can experience the artistry involved in preparing Japanese cuisine and bring home world-class recipes and skills to replicate.
With highly limited seating, this exclusive event ensures each guest receives the utmost attention and care, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a personalised and leisurely dining experience filled with special memories.
This November at Nova promises to be rich with culinary adventures. Just three days before the Mizu activation, the island resort will also host an exquisite dinner in collaboration with the prestigious Maison Taittinger. Guests will be treated to a lavish five-course meal, paired with the finest vintages from Taittinger Champagne, starting with a welcome glass of Taittinger Brut Réserve. The evening will be filled with gourmet delights, including shellfish risotto and locally caught fish, all while basking in the golden glow of a Maldivian sunset.
Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi wins ‘Best Service’ at 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi, a renowned boutique resort in the Maldives celebrated for its Maldivian-inspired elegance, has received recognition at the 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence.
This prestigious accolade honours outstanding quality across recommended properties worldwide and serves as a trusted benchmark for travellers and industry professionals alike. Coco Bodu Hithi was awarded the title of ‘Best Service’ by Condé Nast Johansens for its exceptional hospitality, which seamlessly blends serene surroundings with meticulous, personalised service.
Additionally, the resort was recently recognised in the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards as one of the top resorts in the Indian Ocean, cementing its position as a leader in luxury travel. Offering a thoughtfully curated guest experience, Coco Bodu Hithi continues to set itself apart within the industry.
The resort also excels in culinary innovation, boasting four exceptional restaurants. Renowned Michelin-starred chefs frequently collaborate with Group Culinary Director and Michelin-starred chef Martin Cahill to craft exquisite dining experiences, reflecting Coco Bodu Hithi’s unwavering commitment to service excellence and world-class gastronomy.
Drink
Cocktail art meets tropical bliss: Tao Zrafi transforms Oaga Art Resort’s Sobi Bar
Oaga Art Resort has transformed its Sobi Bar into a Mixology Garden, showcasing a collaboration with internationally acclaimed Beverage Artist and Netflix’s ‘Drink Masters’ finalist, Tao Zrafi.
Far from the typical poolside bar, the revamped Sobi Bar offers a unique experience where artistic cocktails take centre stage. Standard drinks are replaced with Tao Zrafi’s creations, which expertly blend local Maldivian flavours with surprising twists, providing a sensory journey for visitors.
Each cocktail at Sobi Bar is a testament to Tao Zrafi’s creativity. His exclusive menu combines stunning visual presentation with complex, delightful flavours, elevating the drink experience into an art form.
The Mixology Garden caters to diverse tastes. In addition to Tao Zrafi’s signature creations, Sobi Bar offers a curated selection of international gins and artisanal beers, ensuring every guest finds the perfect beverage to suit their preferences.
To commemorate the launch of the Mixology Garden, Oaga Art Resort is hosting several special events:
- Cocktail Masterclasses (November 29 and December 6): Guests can learn from Tao Zrafi himself, discovering the secrets behind his innovative cocktails.
- The Grand Unveiling (December 5): This evening celebration features Tao’s signature cocktails, a buffet, live music, interactive mural painting, and spectacular fire shows. Guests can enjoy a sunset soiree combining art, music, and unforgettable flavours.
Sneak peeks of Tao Zrafi’s creations are available on Oaga Art Resort’s social media platforms, offering a teaser of the enchanting cocktails awaiting guests at Sobi Bar.
Whether seeking relaxation, artistic inspiration, or an elevated cocktail experience, the Mixology Garden at Sobi Bar promises something extraordinary. With its blend of stunning flavors, unique atmosphere, and unforgettable events, Oaga Art Resort ensures every visitor leaves with cherished memories of paradise.
Featured
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa announces exclusive collaboration with Maldivian
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa, a luxury destination located in the pristine Haa Alifu Atoll of the Maldives, has announced its exclusive partnership with Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, for all seaplane and domestic flight transfers. Starting from November 1st, 2024, this collaboration aims to provide guests with unparalleled convenience and seamless travel to the resort, ensuring daily service, with additional transfers available depending on the season.
The resort is known for its spacious villas, exceptional privacy, a wide array of experiences, world-class amenities, and personalised service, all set in a lush, natural island paradise. With Maldivian as its exclusive seaplane transfer partner, guests can enjoy a direct, swift, and scenic journey from Velana International Airport to the resort’s doorstep.
Ahmed Hafeez, Managing Director of Lily Hotels, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with Maldivian to elevate our guests’ arrival and departure experience. This collaboration ensures a smooth and luxurious transition, allowing guests to begin their unforgettable holiday the moment they step off the plane.”
Upon arrival at Velana International Airport, guests are welcomed by the resort’s dedicated airport representatives, who escort them to the exclusive Lily Hotels Lounge at the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal. Here, they can relax and enjoy panoramic views, complimentary refreshments, and Wi-Fi while awaiting their transfer.
In addition to seaplane transfers, Maldivian will also manage domestic flight transfers for guests who prefer this alternative. This comprehensive approach highlights Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa’s commitment to providing flexible and convenient travel solutions.
The partnership with Maldivian also positions the resort for future growth, particularly with the upcoming upgrade of Hanimaadhoo International Airport. This development is expected to enhance accessibility and offer more travel options for the resort’s clientele. The collaboration is anticipated to generate increased interest in the less-explored northern Maldives, an area known for its untouched natural beauty and more tranquil, underwater experiences.
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