Featured
Grand Park Kodhipparu: setting new standards with Green Globe Gold Certification
Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives, has achieved Green Globe Gold certification for its commitment to environmental, social, and sustainability engagement. This prestigious certification marks five consecutive years of recognition for the resort.
The resort has proudly announced its re-certification by Green Globe for 2024, representing another milestone in its ongoing commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility. Since first receiving Green Globe certification for sustainable tourism in 2020, Grand Park Kodhipparu has consistently demonstrated leadership in sustainable operations and practices, ensuring that every guest experience aligns with its core values of protecting and preserving its unique ecosystem.
Grand Park Kodhipparu has consistently exceeded benchmarks for sustainable tourism. In the latest Green Globe onsite audit, the resort achieved 87% compliance, showcasing its dedication to sustainable hospitality.
Key achievements and initiatives for 2024 include:
- Elimination of Single-Use Plastics: In line with its goal to reduce plastic waste, Grand Park Kodhipparu has completely eliminated single-use plastics. The resort’s transition from plastic to reusable straws since 2018 has resulted in the reduction of approximately 450,000 plastic straws over five years. Additionally, the on-site bottling plant, operational since 2019, has saved over 117,000 plastic bottles in 2023 alone, conserving valuable resources and reducing waste.
- Coral Reef Restoration: The resort’s active coral reef restoration project aims to increase coral abundance and diversity naturally. Through careful monitoring and innovative line nurseries, which have shown a 99% success rate, Grand Park Kodhipparu is dedicated to enhancing the resilience of its house reef. In 2023, over 35 coral colonies were successfully transplanted to the reef, contributing to the vibrant underwater ecosystem that guests enjoy exploring.
- Wildlife Conservation and Biodiversity: Grand Park Kodhipparu has made significant progress in cataloguing the flora and fauna on the island, identifying over 115 species of trees and plants. In collaboration with the Olive Ridley Project, resident turtles are monitored, fostering a deeper connection between guests and local marine life.
- Solar Power and Energy Efficiency: To reduce its carbon footprint, the resort launched a solar power system on Earth Day 2021, which now supplies over 10.56% of its electricity needs, saving approximately 150,000 litres of diesel annually. This commitment to renewable energy is complemented by energy-efficient lighting, water conservation measures, and environmentally friendly amenities throughout the resort.
- Environmental Education and Awareness: The resort’s Resident Marine Biologist plays a crucial role in educating guests and team members on marine conservation and sustainability. Regular talks, guided snorkelling tours, and awareness sessions are conducted to foster a deeper understanding of the delicate marine environment and the steps that can be taken to protect it.
Grand Park Kodhipparu places great importance on its team members and local communities. The resort prides itself on its diverse workforce, with employees from 22 nationalities, and a commitment to equitable employment opportunities. Training and development programs ensure that every team member is equipped to grow professionally and contribute meaningfully to sustainability efforts.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives extend beyond the resort team to embrace local traditions and international celebrations, fostering a sense of community and inclusiveness. Events such as World Oceans Day, Earth Day, and various cultural festivities underscore a dedication to cultural appreciation and environmental advocacy.
Looking forward to 2025, Grand Park Kodhipparu remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainability, guided by its comprehensive Sustainability Management Plan. The resort will continue to innovate and lead in responsible tourism, setting new standards for environmental conservation and social responsibility in the Maldives.
Celebration
Savour the season: join The Dazzling Gold Masquerade Gala at Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives
Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives invites guests to join the most spectacular festive celebration of the season with The Dazzling Gold Masquerade Gala, a grand event guaranteed to impress. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Indian Ocean, this glamorous gala promises epic beach parties, incredible live performances, and unforgettable moments that will create magical holiday memories.
The celebration kicks off with lively beach parties, allowing guests to feel the sand between their toes and enjoy the festive vibes under a beautiful starry sky. World-class entertainers and artists will deliver incredible live performances, bringing excitement to every moment of the evening and creating a dazzling atmosphere.
Guests can satisfy their taste buds with gourmet feasts prepared by top chefs, offering an array of delicious international dishes. Meals can be paired with a selection of fine wines and signature cocktails as attendees soak up the festive spirit. When the music starts, guests can get ready to dance the night away, with live bands and DJs keeping the energy high from start to finish.
This glamorous gala promises to be the highlight of the festive season, offering everything needed for an unforgettable holiday experience—great food, amazing music, and a spectacular setting.
Awards
Ifuru Island Maldives celebrates global recognition as one of the Top 100 Luxury Destinations
Ifuru Island Maldives has been selected as one of the Top 100 Luxury Hotels and Resorts of the World 2024 by Luxury Lifestyle Awards. This prestigious recognition highlights the resort’s commitment to excellence, exceptional service, and providing an unparalleled luxury experience.
Luxury Lifestyle Awards celebrates the finest in the hospitality industry by recognising companies that exemplify the “Best of the Best.” The selection process involves a thorough evaluation from various industry sources, focusing on reputation, credibility, and brand awareness. Ifuru Island Maldives distinguished itself with its superior quality and excellence, earning a place in this elite group.
Marcel Sawyer, General Manager of Ifuru Island Maldives, expressed the resort’s pride in receiving the award, stating, “This award reflects the hard work and dedication of our team, who consistently strive to provide our guests with an unforgettable experience. We are committed to maintaining our high standards and continuing to elevate the luxury hospitality experience.”
As the resort celebrates this achievement, it remains dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences that create lasting memories. Ifuru Island Maldives looks forward to welcoming guests from around the world and continuing to raise the bar in luxury hospitality.
Since its opening in September 2023, Ifuru Island Maldives offers 147 sunset suites and villas, along with 6 diverse dining options, including 2 signature restaurants and 4 bars, providing a 24-hour premium All-Inclusive experience. The resort is also home to the Maldives’ first permanent Skydive Dropzone, where guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the islands from above.
In addition, Ifuru Island has announced the launch of Season Two for Skydiving, set to begin in December 2024. This exciting addition further enhances the resort’s adventure offerings, solidifying Ifuru Island as a premier destination for both relaxation and thrilling experiences.
Constance Hotels & Resorts, celebrated for its elegance and exceptional service, achieved remarkable success at the 18th World Luxury Hotel Awards. Among its most notable achievements were the prestigious accolades won by its properties in the Maldives.
Constance Halaveli, Maldives secured several significant awards:
- Luxury Family Beach Resort – Regional Winner
- Luxury Private Beach Villa – Global Winner
- Luxury Private Villa – Global Winner
- Luxury Water Villa Resort – Continent Winner
Constance Moofushi, Maldives also stood out with the following distinctions:
- Best Scenic Environment – Continent Winner
- Luxury All-Inclusive Resort – Regional Winner
- Luxury Eco Hotel – Continent Winner
These prestigious recognitions underscore Constance Hotels & Resorts’ dedication to delivering unparalleled service and creating unforgettable experiences in the Maldives, cementing its position as a leading luxury destination in the region.
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