Every Villa at InterContinental’s New Maldives Resort Comes With Butler Service

Every Villa at InterContinental’s New Maldives Resort Comes With Butler Service“We’re not just in the business of selling rooms, we sell experiences,” says Stefan O. Huemer, general manager of the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau.

 After three years of development and construction, the sparkling new resort—officially opened on September 1 in the southern tip of the Raa Atoll, not far from the country’s only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve—is poised to prove him right. In addition to being the brand’s first hub in the Maldives, the 81-villa property is also the first anywhere to offer Club InterContinental benefits to all guests, elevating the experience for all who check in.
The upgraded journey starts upon arrival at Male International Airport, where staffers organize a seamless transfer to the dedicated InterContinental lounge (also opened on September 1), where you can wait in air-conditioned, WiFi-equipped comfort for the seaplane to the resort. (If cloudy skies prohibit seaplane take-offs, guests will be booked on a short domestic flight to Dharavandhoo island, followed by a 30-minute luxury speedboat ride to the hotel.) However you arrive, you’ll get a hero’s welcome, with a band of traditionally clad drummers, smiling staff members, and your “curator” (a.k.a. butler) awaiting you on the dock. Check-in is then performed in your villa, which might be on the beach, over the water, or around a swimmable lagoon.
The curator service is one of the signatures of the resort, with the dedicated host taking care of everything from personalizing your mini-bar and making spa appointments to organizing activities like secluded island dinners, stargazing sessions, outdoor movie nights, campfire storytelling, wine tastings, and all manner of water sports and snorkeling/diving/sailing excursions. Along with the butler service, complimentary Club benefits enjoyed by all guests include daily buffet and a la carte breakfast (served at the all-day dining Café Umi and the adults-only The Retreat), multi-tiered afternoon tea service, and evening cocktails and canapes. Other meals and drinks can be taken at one of the six restaurants and bars, which range from the seafood-focused, Southeast Asian-flavored Fish Market (also home to a boat-shaped Sunset Bar and an impressive wine cellar) to The Lighthouse, a romantic spot for 360-degree views and Mediterranean-influenced fare from an El Bulli-trained Spanish chef.
An engaging, well-equipped Planet Trekkers kids club, marine biologist-led marine center (which also oversees the resort’s manta ray conservation project), and the overwater AVI Spa—offering treatments like Balinese massages and full traditional Chinese medicine wellness programs—are some of the other on-island attractions, as are its long stretches of powdery soft sand and snorkeling-friendly waters. At the end of the sun-filled days, retreat to one of the villas or multi-bedroom residences, each featuring a private pool and a vibrant, comfortable décor inspired by the eclectic collections of a “wandering nomad.” With room types catering to different needs—overwater for the couples, beachside for families, and duplex lagoon villas tucked between both the ocean and sand—the resort rarely feels crowded, ensuring that tranquility remains the biggest perk of all. Rates start at $995 per night for a beach villa, $1,145 per night for an overwater villa, and $1,295 for a lagoon villa.

Source: yahoo

First Hard Rock Hotel opens in the Maldives

Hard Rock International and S Hotels & Resorts introduced memorable music-inspired stays to the Maldives for the first time on 1st September 2019, when Hard Rock Hotel Maldives officially opened.
Nestled within the exquisite Emboodhoo Lagoon, just 15 minutes by boat from Malé International Airport, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives forms part of CROSSROADS Maldives, the country’s first and only integrated resort.
Inspired by local Maldivian culture, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives infuses contemporary design features with tropical architecture throughout the property, alongside regionally-inspired, authentic music memorabilia, including items from regional sensations Chun Xioa and Khun Asanee Chotikul, as well as international superstars like Shakira and Justin Timberlake.
“We’re excited to showcase the property’s unique experience and signature brand amenities to locals and visitors from around the world,” said Dale Hipsh, senior vice president of Hard Rock Hotels.

Source: eturbonews

Maldivian tourism industry at its highest peak in 5 years: MMPRC

Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) has said the tourism industry saw significant improvements in the first 6 months of the year, when compared with the statistics from the past 5 years. MMPRC noted over 1.1 million tourists had arrived in Maldives by August 25, making it the most improved period for the tourism industry during a period of 5 years.
Speaking at a press conference, Managing Director of MMPRC Thoyyib Mohamed revealed an increase of 19 percent was seen in the first half of the year. He highlighted there were significant improvements made in the traditional markets contributing to the tourism industry of Maldives, adding tourists arriving from Germany, Italy and the UK have increased. In this regard, tourists arriving from Italy have increase by 34 percent, which was attributed to the efforts of MMPRC in promoting Maldives as a travel destination.
The overall number of tourists arriving from Europe increased by 20 percent, according to Thoyyib, who also noted the number of tourists arriving from the UK had also increased by 13 percent.
However, it was China with highest contribution for the Maldivian tourism industry, with over 140,000 tourists arriving in Maldives in the first 6 months of 2019.
MMPRC further revealed more promotional activities targeted for Australia and the Americas will be conducted in the future.

Source: psmnews

Sheraton Maldives Revamps Family Offering

Situated on the large private island of Furanafushi, Sheraton Maldives is the ideal family retreat uniquely located just 1km and a 15-minute speedboat ride away from Malé International Airport.

At the heart of the island resort’s wide-scale renovations has been newly designed family services that offer entertainment for young children through newly fitted top-of-the-range amenities.
The resort boasts 10 different luxury room categories dotted around the island, comprising three types of cottages, all of which feature interconnecting rooms for parents and children. As part of the renovation, the resort has just introduced a new category, ‘Cottage with Pool’, specifically designed with families in mind and including a private plunge pool for young children to safely splash around and with direct access to the white sandy beaches.
The upgraded Sheraton Adventure Club, meanwhile, has been designed for children aged 4 to 12 and provides an abundance of activities all around the resort, ranging from water-sports, cooking classes to interactive beach activities.
Furthermore, the resort has also curated a selection of tailored themed evenings for families to enjoy, including several seasonal experiences, such as Father Christmas gate crashing the full-resort festive sandbank picnic on a fly board.Emilio Fortini, General Manager at Sheraton Maldives, said: “What sets Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa apart from other Maldivian resorts is, undeniably our family appeal. Since completing our renovation programme we have seen a significant increase in parents with young children or teens choosing our resort for their annual family holiday.
“Our offering is so varied from the new range of room categories, the easy access location, our tailored childcare services and our bespoke waters-sports and wellness experiences. As a result of this, families can spend quality time together without feeling on top of each other – this is also largely due to the strategic layout of the island.
“We are now starting to see an increase in multi-generational visits too, as our tropical paradise suits the whole team – from toddlers to grandparents.”

Source: theworldnews

Maldives posts 19.7pc increase in ME tourist numbers

The Maldives continues to be an attractive holiday destination for Middle East tourists, with the island nation recording a 19.7 per cent increase in the traveller numbers from the region in the first half of 2019.
According to the latest figures from the Ministry of Tourism, Maldives, a total of 27,679 visitors arrived in the Maldives between January and June, up from the 23,130 visitors recorded during the same period last year.
Commenting on the increase of tourist arrivals, managing director of MMPRC, Thoyyib Mohamed said: “We are very pleased to see a notable increase in the number of Middle East and worldwide arrivals to the Maldives. Efforts from the industry stakeholders combined with the unparalleled service, luxury and levels of hospitality and privacy that Maldivian resorts offer, will definitely spill over in remaining months of 2019 and into 2020 as well and ring in unprecedented arrival numbers for Maldives from the Middle East market. We look forward to welcoming even more tourists from the Middle East to our shores.”

Source: tradearabia

Four Seasons Adds Even More Luxury to Resort in Maldives

Stays at the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru should probably come with a government health warning, as I doubt any guest ever wants to leave!
And the luxury resort will soon make leaving even harder, as its reimagined all-pool water villas will open on 1 November 2019.
The new villas will feature twice as much living space outside than in to create vastly extended indoor-outdoor hideaways that bring the ocean closer at all times.
A spectacular extension brings the total outdoor area to 182 square metres (1,960 square feet), split into multiple, dedicated zones: sun-drenched decks, shaded social spots and dining areas, over-water hammocks, day bed and an al fresco shower.A new shaded oceanside living and dining pavilion with swing couch flanks the 12-metre (40 foot) pool, which extends into the lagoon for uninterrupted Indian Ocean views.
Pale wooden indoor floors mimic the external sun-bleached decks for a seamless inside-out connection, which combines with the elevated second floor lounge for a sense of space that extends both horizontally and vertically.Inside, suspended feature walls, floor-to-ceiling windows and a contemporary design with light colours and dark blue accents imbue the 90 square metre (970 square foot) space with a sophisticated serenity. Reconfigured bathrooms include sea-view bathtubs and direct deck access, while new overwater hammocks and steps directly into the blue ensure maximum connection to the sea.
Commenting on the new Water Villas, General Manager and Regional Vice President, Armando Kraenzlin, said, “In an ever-crowded world, luxury is increasingly sought in a sense of space and an ability to enjoy an unrestricted connection with the natural world. Our new Water Villas not only offer twice more space outside than in with pools that make you feel as though you are swimming out into the ocean but also extend upwards into a sea-view loft and downwards via steps into the ocean for an enhanced sense of space and connection in all directions.”
Declared the Maldives’ first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2011, the Baa Atoll ecosystem is renowned as one of the most beautiful in the country, home to the world’s largest known population of manta rays, scores of whale sharks, towering thilas, exhilarating kandus, and stunning coral gardens.
In addition, the waters directly around Landaa Giraavaru are home to one of the world’s largest and most successful coral propagation projects. With its 4,000th coral frame planted in May 2019, the Reefscapers project has been working to support the existing reef since before the Resort opened, and is now even putting robots and artificial intelligence to work placing the Resort’s Marine Savers team at the pioneering forefront of global coral reef restoration.
Turtles, baby sharks, mantas and even dolphins visit the Resort’s lagoon while the coral frames attract an ever-expanding abundance of exotic flora and fauna to within a close snorkel of each Water Villa deck.

Source: asiatraveltips

LUX* NORTH MALÉ ATOLL INTRODUCES A SURFER’S PARADISE

LUX* North Malé Atoll introduces The LUX* Break; its very own surf point with ideal conditions for kite and wave surfing.Whether seeking exclusive kite surfing spots or the perfect mix of waves to ride just minutes from the resort, LUX* North Malé Atoll serves it all for avid surfers and beginners alike.

Guinness world record holder for the first to cross The Bering Strait from Russia to Alaska in 2011, as well as four-time Russian national champion of Kite Freestyle, Evgeny (Jackson) Novozheev, has given his seal of approval to LUX* North Malé Atoll’s various surfing spots.

“The resort is a kite surfer’s paradise with its wind conditions, shallow waters and warm temperatures. The breezier months from May to September offers wind speeds between 11 and 20 knots, complemented by the spacious lagoon as well as the nearby sandbank, which is perfect for kite surfers to take off in any direction. Beginners can also use the sandbank as a playground to learn to manoeuvre the equipment. Overall, the light to medium consistent winds are perfect for kite foiling” says Jackson.The LUX* Break, just five minutes from the resort, serves up gentle, rolling waves during certain conditions between May and October, exemplary for all levels of experience for riding the waves. For surfers seeking additional adventures, the resort provides guided excursions to five of the country’s most famous surf spots located 20 to 40 minutes by speedboat.

In collaboration with Best Dives Maldives, the resort offers the highest standards of equipment for rent from PASSION MKIX and VISION MKIX kites to BLISS 39 V5 LTD and PLACEBO V6 M boards, as well as board binding, fins, harnesses and pumps.

For beginners, experienced instructors are on hand for one-on-one instruction. The resort can also organise private speed boat transfers with catered lunch as well as a photographer to capture the exhilarating moments.

Source: visitmaldives

Saudi Arabi tourist market to Maldives booms

The number of tourist arrivals from Saudi Arabia to the Maldives has increased, where a record of 11,000+ tourists has visited from Saudi Arabia in the first half of 2019.
Tourism Ministry statistics show that Saudi is the largest market from the Middle Eastern region to the Maldives. The statistics also highlight that Saudi is ranked no.15 as the leading tourism market to the Maldives.
Compared to statistics of June 2018, the first half of 2019 showed a 15% increase of tourist arrivals from Saudi with over 11,600 guests arriving at the Maldives.
The second-largest tourism market from the Middle Eastern region is the United Arab Emirates (UAE) while Kuwait is ranked third-largest tourism market to the Maldives in this region with 3000+ tourist arrivals which is an increase of 20% compared to last year’s statistics.

MALDIVES REACHES 1 MILLION TOURISTS MILESTONE

Tourism Minister Ali Waheed has said that up to 2nd August, 1 million tourists have visited the Maldives.

At a news conference held by the Ministry of Tourism, Minister Ali Waheed has said that while the new government will be one year old this year, the government’s expectation of 1.5 million tourists coming to the Maldives this year has grown.

The latest statistics released by the Maldives Ministry of Tourism show the overall tourist arrivals to the island nation from January till the end of June 2019 has increased by 18.7 percent.

While the month-to-month arrival count for 2019 has shown promise and growth, the number of arrivals to the Maldives for June exclusively reached 113,457 which marks a 21.0% improvement. In the corresponding month of 2018, the arrival count was at 93,786.

Hard Rock Hotel Maldives opens next month

Marking the brand's first debut on the island, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives is set to open Sept. 1, 2019.

Only a 15-minute boat ride from the airport, the family-friendly resort is set in the Emboodhoo Lagoon, and provides direct access to The Marina @CROSSROADS—an entertainment island with dining, shopping, and more.

Hard Rock Hotel Maldives caters to families, and includes services and amenities like a special kids’ menu available in all restaurant outlets, special pricing for kids (children six years of age and under eat free; kids between six and 11 get 50 per cent off menu prices), Sittertrain-certified babysitters, and kids and teens clubs.

There are two restaurants, The Elephant & Butterfly, which serves up Pan-Latin creations; and Sessions, which features cuisines enjoyed worldwide. There is also the Pool Bar and the classic Hard Rock Cafe.

Rooms & suites

Hard Rock Hotel Maldives has 178 guest rooms, suites, villas, and overwater villas.

Guests can choose from the Silver Sky Studio, the Silver Beach Studio, or the Silver Family Suite, which has two bedrooms.

Those looking for more luxurious escape can choose from the following villas:

Gold Beach Villa

A private terrace with direct beach access, sun loungers and ocean views. The villa also includes an indoor chill-out zone, a 55" screen TV, and an ensuite bathroom with a waterfall shower and signature amenities.

Platinum Overwater Villa

A private terrace, sun loungers, and direct lagoon access.

Platinum Overwater Pool Villa

an infinity pool, a private terrace, sun loungers, and direct lagoon access.

Rock Royalty Overwater Pool Villa (two bedrooms)

Located over the water; includes an outdoor living area, an infinity pool, sun loungers, and direct lagoon access.

Rock Villa

located over the water; includes private boat docking access, infinity pool, a tuk tuk bar, a large outdoor living deck with sun loungers, and direct lagoon access.

Regardless of room category, all of the suites and villas at Hard Rock Maldives provide the following:

• Sound bar with Bluetooth connectivity 
• Signature pillow menu (upon request)
• Fully-stocked, premium mini-bar 
• Complimentary tea and coffee 
• Complimentary, high-speed Wi-Fi and universal plugs 
• Complimentary bottles of drinking water 
• Signature Hard Rock amenities (upon request) 
• Signature Sound of Your Stay program 
• Rock Om in room yoga program 
• 24-hour in-room dining

Source: news.paxeditions

Paradise island: Opening of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

Private retreat Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi opens its doors to guests.Guests looking to spend a few nights in paradise resort need look no further than the recently opened Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi.

WALDORF ASTORIA SERVES UP ISLAND GETAWAY IN THE MALDIVES

Ever wanted to try a slice of paradise? Well, the newly opened Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is just the ticket. This luxurious property is located on the idyllic tropical paradise of Ithaafushi Island in the South Male Atoll in the Maldives, and is so remote that it can only be accessed by yacht, lying a 30 minute boat ride away from the airport in Male.
This sprawling resort boasts everything a traveler could want from their dream hotel and more, including 11 dining options, the crystal blue waters of the Indian Ocean, white sandy beaches and private ocean villas on their very own private island.
The Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi offers guests a mix of over water, beach and reef villas, as well as its very own water park and world class spa, wellness and lifestyle centre.
“We aim to surpass the expectations of today’s luxury traveler with the introduction of our fifth Waldorf Astoria property in Asia Pacific,” said Dino Michael, global head, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts. “Our guests are searching for new and extraordinary experiences during their travels, and we are confident that this latest luxury destination in the Maldives provides the perfect setting for our guests to Live Unforgettable.”

Source: tophotel

Dusit Thani Maldives, a luxury resort on Mudhdhoo Island in Baa Atoll, boasts of three restaurants and two bars. It is the Maldives’ first and only UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. It has introduced a luxury Floating Breakfast concept offering a memorable way to start the day in the privacy of its pools.
Guests can choose one of two options – Floating Breakfast with a demi bottle of champagne (375ml), or Floating Breakfast with soft drinks only.The first option is priced at $80 plus taxes for two persons, and, alongside the champagne, also includes Eggs Royale; smoked salmon with green asparagus; a selection of baked goods and pastries; assorted fruits and nuts; various cheeses; light gourmet bites such as Iberico ham with tomato ciabatta, and other delicious treats. The second option is priced at $60 plus taxes for two persons and comes with a selection of baked goods, dried fruits, various cheeses, light gourmet bites, freshly-squeezed seasonal juices, and tea or coffee.
Floating Breakfast is available via in-villa dining at the resort’s signature two-bedroom beach residence, as well as at villas and pavilions which have private pools.

Source: theworldnews

This Stunning 656-Foot Pool in the Maldives Stretches Across the Entire Island

This island in the Maldives has been dubbed the "secret water island," and once you see pictures, it's not hard to see why. In addition to the surrounding Indian Ocean, you also don't have to go very far to find a beautiful, glistening pool to swim in, thanks to one that stretches across the entire island. Seriously, it's 656 feet long!
Located at the Fairmont Maldives, you can step out of the pool and onto the stunning white-sand beaches trimmed with tropical palm trees. Or, if you feel like swimming the width of the island (which, to be honest, isn't very big), you can leisurely do laps and soak up the sun. It's the perfect spot for wanderlust-inducing Instagram photos, and is a seriously cool place to add to your bucket list. Keep reading to see more, and we'll meet you in the Maldives!

FUSHIFARU MALDIVES CELEBRATES WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS WIN

Fushifaru Maldives has celebrated winning the ‘Maldives Leading Beach Resort’ award at the 26th edition of the World Travel Awards. World Travel Awards honour the top travel destinations worldwide as rated by travel professionals as well as by travellers. Known as the “Tourism Oscars”, the World Travel Awards are renowned as the most prestigious and comprehensive in the global industry and recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence.
On Monday, on the resort’s stunning beach, over 100 residents and guests celebrated this remarkable victory at a magical sunset cocktail event, exulting traditional Maldivian elements that Fushifaru Maldives is renowned for.
The trophy made a grand entrance on a jet ski arriving at the beach in style, where it was received with an authentic Maldivian welcome and was escorted between the rejoicing audiences. “Winning the award is an outstanding affirmation of the trust our guests place in our personalised services and serve as positive motivation for us to continue raising the bar in being the resort of choice for leisure travelers. All our resident hosts and staff are dedicated to provide our guests with inspiring and memorable experiences during their stay. With 49 villas, our resident hosts are able to cater to every guest’s wish to ensure a magical Maldivian adventure,” General Manager Ahmed Siaar was quoted in a statement, as saying.

Source: maldives.net

The Baglioni Resort Maldives: the Italian side of the Maldives

The holiday experience includes multilingual staff available 24/7, a freshwater swimming pool, butler service, laundry and a beach service with loungers. There is a pool bar and three restaurants, a spa with yoga pavilion deep in unsullied nature, a boutique, and a Kids’ Club.

MILAN – The Baglioni Resort Maldives officially opens to the public on 1 October 2019. But before that, with a soft opening from August 1st, a special opening rate will be available for stays between August 1st and September 30th, 2019.

Basking on the island of Maagau in pristine Dhaalu atoll, just a 40-minute seaplane ride from the capital Male, the Resort’s 96 exquisite villas are surrounded by tropical nature, turquoise waters and velvet-smooth white sands. The Resort has been planned in meticulous detail for guests to experience a tailor-made stay in the heart of the Indian Ocean with a touch of exclusive Italian hospitality by Baglioni Hotels.

At the Baglioni Resort Maldives, nothing is left to chance. The holiday experience includes multilingual staff available 24/7, a freshwater swimming pool, butler service, laundry and a beach service with loungers. There is a pool bar and three restaurants, a spa with yoga pavilion deep in unsullied nature, a boutique for treating yourself to a spot of shopping, and a Kids’ Club to keep younger guests aged 3–12 well entertained. All for an unforgettable holiday with a feast of sport, relax and gourmet experiences.

Sport and leisure. Adventure, Italian style

A gym, beach volleyball and non-motorised watersports, pedalos, windsurfing, kayaking, boat trips and snorkelling with full equipment provided. The choice is yours!

Gourmet. Sublime Maldivian views, elegant Italian flavours

From breakfast to after dinner, a panorama of food and drink to delight the most exclusive international clientele, all in the Resort’s signature Italian style. A pool bar and three superb restaurants – Gusto, for Italian verve; Umami, the place to eat Japanese; and Taste, the home of international cuisine – serve gourmet dishes alongside a Healthy Menu of light, nutritious creations and a Kids’ Menu crafted especially for younger guests. Sophisticated aperitivi, wine tastings and personalised private dinners complete the offering.

The exclusive Baglioni Spa. Italian wellbeing, tropical relaxation

The Baglioni Spa is an Italian oasis deep in the heart of nature. This exclusive centre, with concept design by Raison d’Etre, vaunts 4 open-air wooden pavilions for individual treatments, 2 double pavilions for treatments for two, a Yoga Pavilion for practising yoga, meditation and breathing, and a well-equipped gym. Amid the tropical vegetation’s warm embrace, the Baglioni Spa is the perfect place to ease your way to a profound sense of peace.

The Spa menu includes Thai and Balinese rituals, personalisable massages, and treatments to tone, purify and rejuvenate the face and body or to strengthen hair stressed by sun and sea. The Baglioni Spa also offers beauty and wellness experiences for children, groups and families.

The Resort in figures

• 1 Presidential Water Villa: 360 sqm indoors + 310 sqm outdoors + private pool
• 6 Pool Suite Beach Villas: 115 sqm indoors + 60 sqm outdoors + 55 sqm private beach + private pool 3 Family Beach Villas: 135 sqm indoors + 45 sqm outdoors + 55 sqm private beach 
• 5 Pool Grand Beach Villas: 77 sqm indoors + 43 sqm outdoors + 30 sqm private beach + private pool 9 Pool Water Villas: 60 sqm + 45 sqm solarium + private pool 
• 33 Water Villas: 60 sqm + 45 sqm solarium 
• 31 Beach Villas: 65 sqm + 22 sqm terrace + 30 sqm private beach 
• 8 Garden Villas: 65 sqm + 22 sqm terrace

Source: traveldailynews

New Maldives Hotel Is A Tranquil Retreat In UNESCO Biosphere

Vakkaru Maldives has 125 beach and over water villas and suites

Vakkaru Maldives is one of the newest hotels in the exclusive UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll in the Maldives. And it goes without saying that it’s absolutely beautiful. Located on a reef island with uninterrupted 360 degree views, brilliant white sand, and unique marine biodiversity, this is the ideal tranquil getaway. Where better to unwind and soak up some rays?
There’s also a stunning four-bedroom over water private villa for up to eight adults. The resort has tropical gardens that are home to home to over 2,300 fully grown coconut trees. Villas have outdoor shows and direct beach access. So you can wake up and go straight to that bright blue ocean… Some villas also have private plunge pools with lagoon views.
Choose from authentic Italian, South East Asian or grilled seafood at one of the four restaurants. Some ingredients even come direct from the hotel’s organic farm. The Vakkaru Reserve, the resort’s wine cellar, offers private dining experiences. As well as limited-edition wines from around the world.

Source: bigseventravel

Sleep beneath the stars in a hammock over the ocean in the Maldives

If you fancy an unusual sleeping experience, you may be intrigued by the idea of sleeping in a flat hammock bed suspended over the ocean in the Maldives.
The net beds are a great way to fall asleep under the stars, providing, of course, that you are not prone to sleep-walking or throwing yourself out of the bed. You can also sunbathe on them during the day, listening to the sound of the waves.
Alternatively, you can lie on your front and look at the crystal clear waters below, which are home to a variety of colourful and exotic marine life. Many of the villas also have glass-bottomed sections on the floor to facilitate checking out the underwater life below.
Grand Park Kodhipparu is located on Kodhipparu island in the North Male atoll. It is located 20 minutes away from the airport by speedboat transfer. It’s a luxurious one-island-one-resort destination with three restaurants and bars.
The resort is equipped with a gym, beach club, yoga and meditation deck, infinity pool and water sports centre, There are underwater experiences with snorkelling and diving sites, including wreck sites, located nearby. The resort is also family-friendly with a wide array of children’s facilities, including a kids’ club and activities.

Source: lonelyplanet

Maldives Icon Amilla Fushi Scores a Hat-Trick at the World Luxury Spa and Restaurant Awards 2019

Maldives hot spot Amilla Fushi has claimed a trio of prestigious accolades in the annual World Luxury Spa and Restaurant Awards. The winners were announced at a glitzy ceremony held at The State Hermitage Museum Official Hotel in St. Petersburg, Russia on 5 July 2019.
Amilla Fushi’s signature over-water restaurant Feeling Koi was recognised as the Best Luxury Waterside Restaurant and Best Japanese Cuisine in the Indian Ocean, while the resort’s famed Javvu Spa was crowned the global winner for Best Luxury Jungle Resort Spa.
The World Luxury Spa and Restaurant Awards recognise and celebrate luxury restaurants and spas across the globe for their impeccable standards and memorable experiences; from outstanding atmosphere to exceptional service and setting the basis for service industry standards around the globe. Votes are garnered from guests through various marketing channels taking many factors into account from location to design and facilities, showcasing the true value of service excellence.
Serving authentic modern Japanese cuisine in the most breathtaking surroundings, Amilla’s overwater Feeling Koi restaurant offers Latin-inspired laid-back izakaya-style dining which combines the Japanese gastro-pub concept with warm service and a sprinkling of signature Amilla appeal. The restaurant features Japanese-inspired minimalist design; a private open-air dining room and open deck seating on the water’s edge; an open kitchen; and a climate-controlled Sake library including Feeling Koi’s own private label collection.
The resort’s Javvu Spa is an idyllic haven of wellness where pampering leads to holistic health with leading brands such as Pure Massage, ila, Gentleman’s Tonic, QMS and Louise Galvin combining to create a integrated spa menu of world-class, results-driven treatments. 10 wooden treatment pods are complemented by an indoor/outdoor gym with all the latest high tech equipment, a dedicated nail bar, hair salon and yoga pavilion for group or private classes, as well as the resorts new nurturing dining destination, the Wellness Café.

Source:- premier

JA Manafaru Maldives resort wins award for Best Luxury Destination Spa in the Maldives

The resort emerged successful at the World Luxury Spa Awards 2019

The JA Manafaru Maldives island resort’s Calm Spa recently bagged the ‘Best Luxury Destination Spa in the Maldives’ prize at the World Luxury Spa Awards 2019.
Vlad Reyes, general manager, JA Manafaru Maldives resort said: “This award is yet another wonderful accolade that reflects the luxurious treatments, customer care and exceptional service available to guests at JA Manafaru Maldives. We aim to match the breath-taking natural beauty of our island with impeccable service and unique experiences that create unforgettable memories for the whole family’.
Judges at the ‘World Luxury Spa Awards’ appreciated the range of treatments at the Calm Spa & Salon catering to adults and children alike. The outdoor setting of the spa was also a compelling feature for the judges.
Judges specifically recognised the spa’s signature rituals, which include a Seven Day Manafaru Journey treatment comprising massages, facials, body polishes, after-sun experiences, couples’ journeys and more, all using locally sourced ingredients. The family spa treatments were mentioned for their creativity, using natural and organic products.

Source:- hoteliermiddleeast

Top 8 Fine Dining Experiences in the Maldives

The Maldives doesn’t only offer spectacular natural landscapes of shimmering white sandy beaches, lush green palm trees, and warm, gin-clear waters – it also boasts some world-class restaurants and unforgettable dining experiences. From extravagant underwater bars and restaurants to unique chef-prepared gourmet dining experiences on private islands in the middle of the ocean, here are some of the top spots in the Maldives to go for unforgettable fine dining experiences.

1. Deep-End Restaurant – Taj Exotica Maldives

Located at the private island resort of Taj Exotica Maldives in Emboodhu Finolhu in the South Malé Atoll, Deep End Restaurant floats above the gin-clear waters of the ocean on wooden stilts and features partial al-fresco seating, candlelit tables, and a spellbindingly romantic ambiance. The dining establishment offers an unparalleled Mediterranean dining experience with a mélange of enticing flavors from the countries touched by Mediterranean basin and put together by the resort’s culinary experts. The delectable menu features traditional vegetarian and meat-based Arabic mezze, Moroccan Tajines, and meaty kebabs, along with the famous signature dessert, Opera that will transcend any dining experience.

2.Ithaa Undersea Restaurant

The Ithaa Undersea Restaurant at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island in the South Ari Atoll has to be one of the world’s most spectacular dining experiences. The intimate restaurant is situated 16 feet below the surface of the sea in a glass enclosure that allows diners to admire the colorful reefs, schools of vibrant fish, and cruising sharks of the undersea world while dining on award-winning cuisine. The Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, whose name means ‘mother of pearl’ in the native Maldivian language Dhivehi, offers a luxury six-course set dinner of contemporary European and Maldivian cuisine. Diners will savor exquisite delicacies such as Malossol imperial caviar with sour cream potato blinis, calamarata pasta stuffed with reef lobster, yellowtail kingfish with a saffron champagne risotto and beurre blanc foam, and a mouthwatering vanilla chocolate vantage with mango sorbet. While the cuisine is definitely to die for, it has to be the awe-inspiring surrounding views of the passing reef sharks, flying manta rays and gliding turtles that take the cake.

3.Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru

For sheer romance and unforgettable memories, nobody does it better than the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru. Four Seasons dining always promises exceptional menus of world-class cuisine, but for special occasions, the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru boasts unique settings that make an award-winning dining experience even better. Guests can choose from a dreamy dinner on a private sandbank kissed by warm, gentle sea breezes beneath a blanket of stars, a dramatic mid-ocean meal on a floating platform surrounded by the azure waters of the lagoon, or a sumptuous beach barbecue with toes-in-the-sand dining and spectacular sunset views. For those who prefer a romantic restaurant experience, Blu Beach Restaurant at the western end of the island features a stunning pavilion that overlooks the lagoon and serves delectable Italian cuisine.

4.Sip Sip at Six Senses Laamu

Located at the luxurious Six Senses Laamu in the Laamu Atoll, Sip Sip at Six Senses Laamu is one of six elegant restaurants at the luxe resort. The enchanting poolside restaurant boasts a sunken bar and poolside seating that seems to emerge from the gin-clear infinity swimming pool and serves a seasonal, ever-changing menu of mouthwatering dishes that blend East and West flavors with homegrown produce from the island’s organic gardens. Sea breezes drift among the rustic woods under high palm-thatched roofs of the restaurant as diners relish fresh ‘farm-to-pool’ fare such as pan-fried goat-cheese salad with mango compote and cherry tomatoes, crispy Thai fish cakes on a peanut-and-green-mango salad, and a delicious Maldivian Chicken Curry with young coconut, Pandan rice leaves, and island spices.

5. Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru

Surrounded by the awe-inspiring azure waters, soft white sandy beaches and swaying coconut trees of the Kaafu Atoll in North Malé Atoll, the luxurious Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru Resort offers more than just romantic seaside dining. The resort is home to the excellent Ilaafthi Restaurant, which serves an array of fresh locally caught seafood, Maldivian curries, prime steaks and local salads, but the resort’s Sharkpoint Dining Option is what draws discerning patrons. Guests dine at private tables on the beach with their toes in the sand and gentle sea breezes in their hair and savor a specially prepared menu that includes Maldivian lobster, fresh scallops, and sweet desserts. Another impressive dining experience at the resort consists of the famous Tuesday evening Beach Barbecue Dinner, which features a sumptuous four-course dinner prepared over the coals and accompanied by a traditional Bodu Beru performance on the beach.

6.Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa

Located in North Huvadhoo, one of the largest natural atolls in the world, the Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa is home to the Island Grill, which features tables and white chairs set on a blanket of powder-white sand, and an open-plan kitchen beneath a vast Crusoe-esque thatched roof where guests can watch expert chefs at work. After a sumptuous meal of freshly grilled seafood, prime cut steaks, and fresh local salads guests can enjoy a nightcap at the Dhoni, an award-winning lounge that gives the nod to the arching lines of the archetypal Maldivian fishing boat. An architectural masterpiece, the traditional yet contemporary Dhoni lounge welcomes guests with an impressive wooden structure crafted by actual fishing-boat builders that reflects that of an upturned dhoni (fishing boat), which is framed by a pool so still its surface looks like glass.

7.Subsix at Niyama Resort

Aptly named, Subsix at Per Aquum’s Niyama Resort is another extraordinary dining establishment which rests 20 feet below the surface of the sea. The restaurant is accessed by speedboat and a three-tier staircase that descends into the sea and boasts stunning ocean-inspired décor that complements the breathtaking underwater surroundings. Contemporary design elements include a sweeping curvy clam-inspired bar, soft anemone chairs, wavy capiz shells draped from the ceilings, and Italian abstract chandeliers that illuminate the interiors like glimmering coral. Subsix serves sumptuous Champagne breakfasts, sub-aquatic lunches, and gourmet dinners with sublime menus of chef-inspired creations like swimmer crab with couscous pomelo and ocean foam and lobster medallions with heirloom tomatoes and blackberry essence. The restaurant also hosts twice-weekly “glow party” club nights where guests can dance the night away against an illuminated backdrop of the surrounding reef and its striking inhabitants.

8.Mandhoo Restaurant

Boasting a heavenly setting on stilts 100 meters out from the beach and surrounded by the dazzling turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, Mandhoo Restaurant at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is a culinary gem. The stunning open-air restaurant rests on stilts and serves award-winning gourmet cuisine made from the finest organic ingredients, such as freshly-caught seafood, tiger prawns, prime meats, and local salads, herbs and vegetables. Diners might glimpse a baby shark or sting-ray gliding beneath the stilts as they tuck into baked local Tiger Prawns cooked gravlax-style on the plancha and served with organic salmon with green leaves and fresh tomato tea with diced tofu, and Nori-crusted beef tenderloin with teriyaki shitake mushrooms, and sour cream wasabi.