W Maldives Recipe: Scallops & Foie Gras

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W Maldives presents signature dish “Scallops & Foie Gras” at over- water FISH restaurant. Danish born, Nikolaj Retpen, Executive Chef at the Retreat unveils his recipes.

Ingredients

• 100g Terrine de Foie Gras
• 2pcs fresh scallops
• 4 baby carrots
• 1 large carrot
• 20g butter
• ½ tsp Mirin
• 500ml water
• Sprouts for decoration
• Salt & Pepper to taste

Preparation

1. Devein the Foie Gras, flavor it with salt, white pepper and a half spoon of Mirin.
2. Place it in the oven for 5 to 10 minutes at 160 degrees Celsius.
3. Let it cool down and mix it every 10 minutes until the Foie Gras sets. Roll it in cling film in a sausage shape. Place it in the chiller.
4. Take the large carrot and peel 3 long slices. Put them aside. Cut the rest into rough pieces. Place the carrot pieces in half litter of water and 10g of butter. Boil the carrots until total evaporation of the water. Then blend to make a puree.
5. Remove the scallops muscle. Heat a pan with oil and add the baby carrots and the scallops. Let it cook at high heat and flip sides, add 10g of butter in the pan to color the ingredients.
6. Take the Foie Gras and cut into slices.
7. Arrange a spoon full of carrot puree on the bottom of a plate, place the scallops and one slice of Foie Gras. Place the baby carrots on top of the scallops; decorate with carrot slices & fresh sprouts.

W Retreat & Spa Maldives is a tropical playground in the Indian Ocean that’s perfect for relaxing, playing, and recharging for your next adventure. Experience one of the 78 Retreats, either on the beachside or overwater which gives you access to endless Indian Ocean views. Abandon the expected and sample creative dining by Executive Chef Nikolaj Retpen in the retreats three dining experiences and two lounge concepts. Step into the spotlight at 15BELOW the Maldives only underground nightclub, and sip on one of the 90 varieties of vodka.

Soneva reveals one of the largest resort villas in the Indian Ocean

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Luxury private residences created by the Soneva Group in the Maldives and Thailand have become coveted as the ultimate in SLOW LIFE status symbols and their new eight bedroom magnum opus is already commanding interest worldwide.

The largest private residence to be built in the region, the eight bedroom secluded stronghold on Soneva Fushi will be unique and truly magnificent when it is completed mid October.Rental prices will range from $11,300-$30,000 (+ taxes) / night depending on the season.

As with all Soneva Group’s privately developed villas, it is constructed using time-tested indigenous techniques with materials from sustainable sources adapted to preserve the integrity of the environment and the local communities.

But there are features in this new property that no realtor’s dictionary can adequatelydescribe including some of the most breathtaking views of unending cerulean seas and a versatility in accommodation for large families and their attendants (private secretaries, security, chefs or personal trainers) or groups (such as executive retreats)that is hard to match.

The two guiding principles in its design were the need for privacy and sociable relaxation.

Living spaces inside and out are carefully drawn and generous, and located on a prime beachfront spot with a spectacular view that will never change.

Sales of Soneva Group’s limited range of luxury villas at Soneva Fushi, Maldives and Soneva Kiri, Thailand have been strong. Opportunities to purchase are scarce since so few are being built and prices, ranging from US$3M-US$15M, reflect their exclusivity. They provide an attractive financial return as well as a guarantee a ‘return on life’. Rental programmes are tailored to owners’ requirements.

There are more than 100 resorts in the Maldives but Soneva Fushi is alone in offering private villas with more than three bedrooms. This new development, with eight suites, provides the perfect solution for large multi generational families, groups of friends, weddings, business gatherings and sophisticated hen and stag parties.

The residence is a two storey collection of villas with an expansive wraparound swimming pool spread over a large area with generous outdoor living space. The master bedroom boasts its own private swimming pool measuring 111.3 m2 and an outdoor bathroom but

there are five additional guest bedrooms, a children’s bedroom, a smaller nanny’s bedroom and of course one for the Mr./Miss Friday butler.

Other features include a wine cellar, library, large sunken dining area within the pool, children’s playroom and a private spa suite with steam facilities, a gym and massage room.

The main swimming pool is 477.3 m2 with a slide going from the children’s den into the swimming pool. 1 big deck (58.3 m2 in the middle of the pool). There is a sunken dining area (12.4 m2) that seats up to 12 people.

When not used by the owner, the villa can be rented out with a guaranteed annual investment. Rental yields of up to 4% net guaranteed per annum indicate solid investment potential.

As with all Soneva Group properties, each fully serviced villa comes complete with a dedicated 24/7 butler, discounted transfers to and from the resorts and full access to all the island’s facilities, with special ‘owners rates’ being offered in the restaurants, bars and

galleries.

Soneva is an established resort and luxury residences company. It captures the hearts of the UHNW family due to its philosophy, SLOWLIFE – Sustainable-Local-Organic-Wellness-Learning-Inspiring-Fun-Experiences.

It has managed the delicate balance of lifestyle and sustainability by providing luxurious accommodations, magnificent natural locations, incredible cuisine and a wealth of local, “money can’t buy” experiences.

Air Asia X to begin scheduled flights to Maldives

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Malaysian low-cost, long-haul carrier AirAsia X has commenced scheduled flights between Malaysia and Maldives today.

The airline announced that they will be offering return flights between Kuala Lumpur and Male’ starting from $225 (MVR3932) in Economy Class.

AirAsia X stated that they will using 377 seater Airbus A343-300 flights in their new route between Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Maldives.

Maldives currently receives 28 scheduled flights and 3 chartered flights from 27 countries around the world.

Introducing LEO Luxury Yacht by Your Maldives

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We are glad to announce that we have added LEO Luxury Yacht to Your Maldives Liveaboard fleet. 

The 41m Luxury Yacht, LEO is designed to provide an intimate retreat at the epitome of luxury, will be available for charters from October 2013 onwards. LEO offers all inclusive luxury five-star experience where travellers can enjoy worldclass service and absolute indulgence while surrounded by tranquil waters of Maldives. The lavish 9 cabins onboard can accommodate up to 20 guests at a time. 

Guests can enjoy scuba diving at the top dive sites in Maldives, famed for its underwater beauty. Water sports such as jet skiing and wind surfing are available for the adventurous, and guests can also option to soak up in the Jacuzzis or enjoy sumptuous rejuvenation from onboard spa. The finest in culinary delights to appease all palates can be expected from the five-star restaurant and bar onboard. 

Editors Note;

Your Maldives is a Tour Operator and Liveaboard Management Company based in Maldives offering Maldives holidays. Your Maldives Liveaboard fleet offers access to premium locations throughout Maldives for activities such as scuba diving, cruising, fishing and surfing.

For more info : http://yourmaldives.mv/

Face to Face: Peter Nilsson, General Manager of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

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Travel Daily speaks to the general manager of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

Conrad’s resort in the Maldives is famed for its size and isn’t afraid to try something new, with a submarine and underwater restaurant just some of what it offers. Travel Daily caught up with the resort’s general manager to find out more and what is next.




There is a lot of competition in the Maldives market, how does your property stand out from the crowd?
There’s no ‘secret’ to what makes us one of the best luxury resorts in the Maldives: it’s the fact that we offer the widest choice of the best there is.

For example, whereas most islands in the Maldives have two or three restaurants and bars, we have eleven.  Where most resorts would have a small selection of wines, we have the largest wine cellar in the region with over 20,000 bottles and a different wine list in each restaurant.

While most five-star hotels in the Maldives have a spa, we have two – and our spas are completely different, in different locations and offer two entirely separate philosophies, treatments and product lines.

Most resorts here have watersports, but we’re the only to take it to the next level and have a submarine!  We have an outstanding coral reef and are the only resort to offer whale shark snorkelling excursions with scientists who’ve been studying whale sharks in the Maldives for the past six years.

The great thing about all this choice is that the guest truly has the luxury of enjoying their holiday in their own style: if you’re the kind of person who likes to be busy all day long, we can accommodate that with tennis, watersports, excursions, spas and so on, while if your idea of the perfect holiday means a sun bed under coco palms on an empty stretch of beach, we offer that as well.



Aside from the competition, what are currently the hotels’ main challenges?
This resort has all the ingredients it needs to offer a great holiday and my job is to take it to the next level in terms of guest experience and service delivery.

Reaching the standards I want to achieve is something that takes time to build up, but every day I see small signs that we’re improving.  It’s not easy to measure and we depend on feedback from guests that tells us if we’re doing it right.

I don’t think I’ll ever be in a place where I’m fully satisfied and that’s part of what drives me is still trying to reach that goal, but I get small doses of satisfaction along the way to keep me going.



What are your key source markets and where does the UK sit within this?
We’ve seen many changes in source markets over the past five years at Conrad Maldives but the UK remains within the top four markets for us.

The biggest change has been the increase in arrivals from Asia, most notably from Korea and mainland China; we’re also seeing increased interest from markets such as Thailand and Singapore as well.



What recent changes or developments has there been for the resort?
Following the water villa renovations and openings of two different suites last year, 2013 is a year of consolidation where we’ve been focusing on the smaller details such as service delivery while preparing for the big changes in 2014.



What plans or launches are in the pipeline?
One of our wine producers, Antinori Estates, will be visiting the resort in December this year and so we are looking forward to welcoming them and to providing this enhanced experience for guests. Experts from Antinori will be offering hosted wine dinners and tasting sessions, events such as these provide real value for our guests and we’ve found them to be very popular in the past.

Travel to a private island in The Maldives, where luxury is taken to a new level

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The Maldives are not exactly short of a few ultra-luxury retreats, or resorts promising peace and tranquillity. But at Velaa, a private island opening this autumn, guests are promised the ultimate level of escape.

‘It will appeal to those looking for a place far from the hordes of holidaymakers and tourists, with serene natural environments, holistic treatments, sublime service, and, most importantly, peace and quiet,’ says Hans Cauchi, the island’s executive director.

‘It will also attract the incognito traveller – guests who do not wish to be recognised and who seek from their hosts someone who will understand their need to remain under the radar.’

Located in the northern Noonu Atoll, the deeper, cooler waters allow for unexplored diving sites and abundant marine life. Before it was a resort, the island was uninhabited and housed only a watermelon factory.

Then Jiri and Radka Smejc, the founders of Velaa, developed it with the aim of creating somewhere their own family and friends would love.

The result is more than 40 private villas, houses and residences, 18 of which are built over water, where schools of dolphins swim, while sea turtles lay their eggs on the island’s private beach.

For those incognito travellers wanting even more privacy, the Romantic Pool Residence villa is accessible only by boat.

While there is a golf academy, Michelin-starred dining and spa facilities, the island’s hosts also understand that some guests are unable to entirely power down and do need to stay connected.

‘It is the ideal spot for an elite work retreat, too,’ says Cauchi, ‘with all the modern facilities of an urban business hotel, yet set in a serene
environment.’

More about > Maldives Resorts

Maldives Travel News 2013/Sep/25

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Maldives Travel News
1	GHM launches The Chedi Dhapparu, luxury residential villas in the Maldives Luxury hotel group GHM is expanding into the Maldives with The Chedi Dhapparu, a residential resort and hotel property located on the largest habitable island in the Maldives. The 55-hectare island is a 20-minute speedboat ride away from Hanimadhoo International Airport. Read More
2	Football legend Diego Maradona holidays in Maldives The football legend Diego Maradona and his girlfriend Rocio Oliva are currently holidaying in Maldives. The couple arrived few days ago and staying at a luxury resort in Ari Atoll. Read More
3	Diver finds underwater camera lost in Maldives and rescues memories of a honeymoon trip Fortune in misfortune: in March 2013 a Finnish couple lost their Olympus TOUGH while snorkelling in the Maldives – and with it practically all the reminders of their honeymoon. Three months later, a German diver found the camera on the sea floor. Read More
4	GHM to operate its first resort in the Maldives, scheduled to open in 2016 GHM dropped anchor in the Indian Ocean last week when the luxury hotel group inked a deal to operate its first resort in the Maldives, scheduled to open in 2016. Read More
5	New Kandolhu Island Maldives Resort & Spa will be open in 11 January 2014 by Universal Resorts Universal Resorts is expanding its global portfolio with a new property on Kandolhu Island in the Maldives. Read More
6	Jumeirah Maldives unveil innovative water bottling plants Introduction of glass bottles set to further reduce top hotels’ carbon footprint. From September 2013, the luxurious Jumeirah Dhevanafushi and Jumeirah Vittaveli resorts in the Maldives are running new water bottling plants as part of an on-going commitment to reduce the hotels’ carbon-footprints. Read More
7	COMO Hotels and Resorts to open new property in The Maldives for October 2013 ‘Maalifushi by COMO’ will be the Thaa Atoll’s first luxury resort - a secluded island retreat with a uniquely private location. COMO Hotels and Resorts has announced it will open an exclusive new property in the Maldives this October. Maalifushi by COMO, an eight-hectare private island in the southerly Thaa Atoll, will be the company’s second resort in the Maldives. Its sister property, Cocoa Island by COMO, located further north in the South Malé atoll, opened in 2002. Read More
8	Akshay Kumar celebrates birthday with family in Maldives Resort Bollywood star Akshay Kumar who turns 46 today, is currently ringing in his birthday with a bang in Maldives. His arrived Maldives with his family. Read More
9	Jumeirah Maldives Resorts launch new spa experience at Jumeirah Dhevanafushi & Jumeirah Vittaveli The luxurious Talise Spas at Jumeirah Dhevanafushi and Jumeirah Vittaveli in the Maldives are now offering a new menu of signature spa experiences. Read More
10	Maldives-based DMC Neotrav conducts multi-city roadshow in India As part of its focused strategy to tap the Indian market, Maldives-based Destination Management Company (DMC), Neotrav recently conducted three-city roadshow (Mumbai, Delhi and Chandigarh) in India with its preferred partners, Jumeirah Maldives and Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives. The roadshows (a first by a private sector player from Maldives) conducted in association with Sand Destination Consultants, Neotrav’s India representatives, were aimed at reaching out to larger audience of Indian travel trade and educating them about the latest offerings of the preferred partners. Read More

GHM launches The Chedi Dhapparu, luxury residential villas in the Maldives

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Luxury hotel group GHM is expanding into the Maldives with The Chedi Dhapparu, a residential resort and hotel property located on the largest habitable island in the Maldives. The 55-hectare island is a 20-minute speedboat ride away from Hanimadhoo International Airport.

The Chedi Dhapparu will have 40 hotel suites–including 20 90 sqm Chedi Club Suites with private pools–and 90 branded residential villas, with villas ranging from one to four bedrooms. This is the first project in the Maldives with a license to sell real estate titles to villa buyers. Sales are set to begin in Q1 2014, with the opening planned for 2016.

The property will also include a spa, health club, dive center, library, cigar bar, restaurants and a lounge.

More about > Maldives Resorts

ABOUT GHM

Elegant, contemporary design interpreted with respect for the indigenous culture, rich history and unique surroundings defines each GHM resort and hotel around the globe. Authenticity is key to every GHM guest experience, from the refined grandeur of the architecture to the respectful intimacy of addressing our guests by name.

http://www.ghmhotels.com/

Football legend Diego Maradona holidays in Maldives

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The football legend Diego Maradona and his girlfriend Rocio Oliva are currently holidaying in Maldives. The couple arrived few days ago and staying at a luxury resort in Ari Atoll.

Maradona is best remembered for helping Argentina win the 1986 World Cup. Maradona was a goal-scoring midfielder for Argentina in four World Cups (1982, 1986, 1990 and 1994) and played professionally for more than two decades. Among his many pro clubs were FC Barcelona (1982-84) and SSC Napoli (1984-91). His career included plenty of controversy: he was suspended for 15 months in 1991 after testing positive for cocaine, suspended again in 1994 after failing another drug test.

More about > Maldives Resorts

Many experts, football critics, former players, current players and football fans consider Maradona to be the greatest football player of all time. He was joint FIFA Player of the 20th Century with Pelé

http://maldives.net.mv/10103/diego-maradona-holidays-in-maldives/

Diver finds underwater camera lost in Maldives and rescues memories of a honeymoon trip

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Fortune in misfortune: in March 2013 a Finnish couple lost their Olympus TOUGH while snorkelling in the Maldives – and with it practically all the reminders of their honeymoon. Three months later, a German diver found the camera on the sea floor. Despite few specks of rust on the outside, the memory card inside the camera worked perfectly – therewith, the pictures were rescued. Mario N. posted a photo of his find on Facebook. The same day, the post was shared more than 20,000 times. That was how the owners got to hear of it. Now they have their camera back, and with it their holiday photos.

More about > Maldives Resorts

It’s said that life is stranger than fiction, and this story proves it: while diving in the Maldives, Mario N. made a truly fortunate discovery. On the bottom of the sea lay an Olympus TOUGH. After three months in the Indian Ocean, there are just a few specks of rust to hint at the unusual location where it had been found. The memory card however works perfectly. Around 500 holiday photos taken by a couple, evidently very much in love, can be seen on it. So Mario attempts to track them down. Judging by the photos, the owners come from Finland. He can also roughly make out the time they made their trip.

Using his Facebook account, Mario publishes a search message: “Olympus camera found in the Maldives! Does anyone know these people? The couple may have come from Finland – and they were travelling on or around March 8.” Alongside this, he posts a photo of the couple. Enthused and moved by the story, many Facebook users want to help. Within a few hours, the message has been shared over 20,000 times. Which is how it also comes to be on the page of the diving school ‘Hanko Diving’, where the owners were finally recognised. They were absolutely delighted to get their camera back, and with it the memories of their honeymoon trip – a good omen for their marriage, and a wonderful story to tell their grandchildren at some point!

http://maldives.net.mv/10108/diver-finds-underwater-camera-lost-in-maldives-and-rescues-memories-of-a-honeymoon-trip/

GHM to operate its first resort in the Maldives, scheduled to open in 2016

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GHM dropped anchor in the Indian Ocean last week when the luxury hotel group inked a deal to operate its first resort in the Maldives, scheduled to open in 2016. The agreement with the developers was signed six weeks after GHM announced it would launch three hotels in Taiwan, and less than five months after the company expanded its hospitality interests in the U.A.E.

Located on a 55-hectare, crescent-shaped atoll -- the largest habitable island in the Maldives -- and 20 minutes by speedboat from Hanimadhoo International Airport, The Chedi Dhapparu will include 90 hotel-managed residential villas and 40 hotel suites, half of which will hover over crystal-clear waters the republic is known for.

Every unit will offer unrestricted views of either a coral-reef lagoon or the open ocean and will feature lush, tropical landscaping.

"The setting is absolutely spectacular, and lends itself perfectly to our brand philosophy – that each GHM hotel should, in its own way, be a style to remember," said GHM President Hans R. Jenni. "We couldn't have asked for a better opportunity."

To ensure the area's ecosystem remains in proper balance, GHM plans to institute a program for maintaining the ideal levels of coral in the lagoon, which is popular among dolphins and other marine species.

And to ensure the resort possesses characteristics consistent with all GHM properties, the group will work with Reda Amalou of AW2, the Paris-based architecture firm responsible for the design of the award-winning Nam Hai in Hoi An, Vietnam.

Twenty of the hotel suites – the 90-square-metre Chedi Club Suites – will have private pools. All 130 units will offer direct access to the beach.

"The concept will be contemporary living with an Asian touch," said Jenni. "Instead of thatched, Maldivian roofs, we'll have flat roofs, and interiors with clean lines and high ceilings."

The Chedi Dhapparu is the first project in the Maldives with a license to sell real estate titles to villa buyers. The villas will have from one to four bedrooms, with the largest covering 565 square metres. Sales will begin early next year.

Other features of the master plan include a sea-facing, new-age spa with 10 double treatment rooms; a health club with a tai chi terrace; a club lounge catering to guests lodged in the over-water suites; and a beach club with a dive centre and chic bar.

Blueprints also call for a library, cigar lounge and four food-and-beverage outlets, including a dinner- only venue serving specialties from the Maldives, India and Sri Lanka, and a Japanese restaurant that takes advantage of the resort's access to fresh seafood.

New Kandolhu Island Maldives Resort & Spa will be open in 11 January 2014 by Universal Resorts

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Universal Resorts is expanding its global portfolio with a new property on Kandolhu Island in the Maldives.

Set to welcome its first guests on 11 January 2014, Kandolhu is a small lush island, ringed by an intricate yet stunning coral garden. Intimate and bare, this tiny gem is encircled with wide beaches that are veiled by the emerald green ocean that Maldives is known for.

Following an investment of US 12 million, the island will feature just 30 rooms in 5 different categories, both on land and over the water.

Located in the heart of the Maldives, in North Ari Atoll, the island can be reached by a 20 minutes seaplane.

Though it is designed to 5-star levels, the island will focus more on giving its guests an "island experience" instead of a typical stay at a hotel.

Guests can walk around the island barefoot in just minutes and snorkel one of the best house reefs in the Maldives, rich in both coral and fish life, and easily accessible from the island.

Guests can choose to go on bed and breakfast, and plan your day as you go, or you can book full board and have access to various a la carte restaurants on the island - or indulge in luxury, Kandolhu style, by going all inclusive where you will be set for your entire stay.

Facilities available on the island include 4 restaurants, 1 bar, spa with 4 treatment rooms, diving, non-motorised water sports, excursions and a fitness room.

General Manager, Abdul Latheef describes Kandolhu as "...something very unique for the Maldives, where islands of this size is very rare. This will be an experience that will offer a Maldives, that is not typically seen by the numerous tourists that visit our island nation. Kandolhu is the perfect combination of "small island Maldives" and affordable luxury. It is an island that will make you feel like Robinson Crusoe, just with several luxuries at your disposal. It is an island where you go to find quietude and peace, and it is an island on which you will have absolute time alone with your loved one."

Jumeirah Maldives unveil innovative water bottling plants

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Introduction of glass bottles set to further reduce top hotels’ carbon footprint

From September 2013, the luxurious Jumeirah Dhevanafushi and Jumeirah Vittaveli resorts in the Maldives are running new water bottling plants as part of an on-going commitment to reduce the hotels’ carbon-footprints. 

By utilizing the water bottling plants instead of shipping in bottled water, each resort will save approximately 100,000 plastic bottles per year. This new water system will form an important part of both resorts’ continued effort to preserve the idyllic surroundings of the Maldives for future generations of guests.

The Eco Pure system will enable each hotel to treat sea water on site, passing it through complex stages of filtration to make it perfect for drinking. Salt content is separated from the water, as well as other impurities, whilst some minerals are added.  The final product is then passed through a cooler for still water, and CO2 is added for sparkling water, before being stored in recyclable glass bottles.

Jumeirah Dhevanafushi is an exclusive all suite resort situated in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll, 400 km south of the capital city of Malé, located in an area of extraordinary beauty surrounded by unspoiled coral reefs. The intimate resort comprises just 22 island villas, as well as an exclusive water village including 16 ocean villas, called the Ocean Pearls, that is situated 800 meters away from the main island of the resort and is easily accessible by speedboat ride. Each of the 38 villas come complete with private butlers, so guests can rest assured that their every wish will be catered to; from guided snorkelling tours of the reef in the crystal clear Indian Ocean, to private meals on secluded beaches and sessions with the resort’s dedicated yoga master overlooking the award-winning over-water Talise Spa.

For personalised luxury closer to Malé guests opt for Jumeirah Vittaveli, just a 20-minute boat ride from Malé International Airport. Far from the clutches of stressful city life, Jumeirah Vittaveli is nestled in a spot of outstanding sophistication, with every detail of a stay meticulously crafted to excite and indulge. All villas, complete with private swimming pools and private beach access, make for the perfect setting. Enjoy discrete luxury service against a backdrop of incredible ocean views and, for a taste of adventure, take time to wander along sea facing trails of unsurpassed beauty. The 5-star dive centre is a veritable hive of activity for canoeing, windsurfing and diving in one of the world’s most incredible coral reefs.

COMO Hotels and Resorts to open new property in The Maldives for October 2013

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‘Maalifushi by COMO’ will be the Thaa Atoll’s first luxury resort - a secluded island retreat with a uniquely private location.

COMO Hotels and Resorts has announced it will open an exclusive new property in the Maldives this October. Maalifushi by COMO, an eight-hectare private island in the southerly Thaa Atoll, will be the company’s second resort in the Maldives. Its sister property, Cocoa Island by COMO, located further north in the South Malé atoll, opened in 2002.

The 66-room property will be the first luxury resort on the unspoilt Thaa Atoll where it will offer away-from-it-all seclusion and an abundant underwater experience. The island’s pristine white sands and bright turquoise lagoons are neighboured by a string of uninhabited islands – perfect dashes of powdery sand and lolling palm trees – including another island belonging to the resort that can be booked for castaway picnics and romantic private dining.

On the main resort island, tropical vegetation featuring exotic birdlife provides lush curtains for private rooms, suites and villas, as well as Maalifushi’s ‘Madi’ restaurant, ‘Thila’ pool and lounge bar. Overwater accommodation, including a number of exclusive luxury suites and villas with private pools, as well as ‘Tai’ restaurant, can be found on the west of the island, all offering uninterrupted views across the ocean. Interiors throughout this luxury resort in Maldives are by Japanese designer Koichiro Ikebuchi; they will bear the hallmarks of COMO’s signature, pared-back style, with locally sourced materials, natural light and open vistas taking centre stage.

Underwater, the Thaa Atoll boasts a range of unspoiled corals, attracting a whole host of colourful reef fish and sea creatures. Opportunities to spot magnificent Hammerhead and Whale Sharks also offer a rare environment for dive enthusiasts.

Other key highlights of Maalifushi by COMO will include:

Three expansive, two-bedroom overwater COMO Villas

‘Madi’ restaurant featuring all-day international, Maldivian and healthful COMO Shambhala Cuisine

Overwater ‘Tai’ restaurant and bar serving Japanese-inspired cuisine incorporating fresh, locally-sourced fish and seafood

COMO Shambhala Retreat spa with gym, eight overwater treatment rooms and yoga pavilion

On-island Dive Centre and guided diving excursions including a Marine Biologist and PADI instructors

Activities and excursions including dolphin cruises, fishing, snorkeling and sailing

Maalifushi by COMO will be reached by a 50-minute seaplane ride from the Maldives’s main airport at Malé.

For more information please visit: comohotels.com/maalifushi

Maldives-based DMC Neotrav conducts multi-city roadshow in India

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As part of its focused strategy to tap the Indian market, Maldives-based Destination Management Company (DMC), Neotrav recently conducted three-city roadshow (Mumbai, Delhi and Chandigarh) in India with its preferred partners, Jumeirah Maldives and Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives. The roadshows (a first by a private sector player from Maldives) conducted in association with Sand Destination Consultants, Neotrav’s India representatives, were aimed at reaching out to larger audience of Indian travel trade and educating them about the latest offerings of the preferred partners. 

According to Satyeash Pai, Director of Sales, Neotrav, Maldives has witnessed increasing demand from Indian market including Tier-II cities. “Apart from the honeymoon segment there is growing interest from the family segment and MICE segment in India. There is also a growing demand from Indian travellers for luxury properties and for activities like snorkelling and diving in Maldives,” stated Pai.

At the roadshows, the new Indian Ocean resort brand of EoN Resorts (a Maldives-based resort development and research group), ‘Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts’ was also introduced. Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives, the first property under the Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts brand will have its soft launch on October 15, 2013, and will open fully on November 15, 2013. Dinesh Bhaskar, Director - Sales & Marketing, Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives informed that the property with 150 villas, located at Lhaviyani Atoll (35-minute seaplane ride from Male), is positioned as an entry-level, five-star resort, offering value and a premium, all-inclusive holiday plan 'Platinum Plus'. 

Talking about the new brand, Pai, said, "We have expertise in managing properties and running a DMC. We thought it was the right time to launch a hospitality product of our own." EoN Resorts manages several properties in Maldives apart from Jumeirah brand like Six Senses Laamu, Viceroy Maldives, Constance Halaveli, The Island Hideaway, Soneva Gilli, etc. Neotrav is part of EoN Resorts. 

Acknowledging the support and response from the Indian market, Simmi Soodan, Director of Sales, Jumeirah Maldives, said, "India is among the top seven source markets and the average length of stay of Indians is three-four days and Indians are high spenders with spend on par with guests from Russia and the Middle East. Indians are increasingly looking at luxury products and both our properties, Jumeirah Vittaveli and Jumeirah Dhevanafushi are top-end luxury properties. While Jumeirah Dhevanafushi is most romantic resort and first all suite property in Maldives, Jumeirah Vittaveli is billed as ‘effortless luxury.’ Both properties have private pools, rich house reef and signature Talise Spa, which is our house brand. Vittaveli also has the largest kids club.”

She added, “We understand the Indian market requirement and cater to the palate of Indian travellers. Jumeirah Maldives is popular brand among Indian travellers due to the Indian cuisine we offer including Jain food. In past two years, we have been able to penetrate the market well and hope to tap the family, honeymooners and small group segments even further and increase the number of Indian guests substantially.” Aman Bhatia, Director, Sand Destination Consultants, added, “We have witnessed 30 per cent rise in demand this year from the Indian market for Jumeirah Maldives.”

Commenting on the initiative by Neotrav, Sanjay Sondhi, President, OM Tourism, Marketing Representative for Maldives Tourism in India, said, "It is good to see private players actively participating in destination promotion and such initiatives are always welcome. As a tourism office we can only market the destination, but the private players can create opportunities and generate business.” 

Akshay Kumar celebrates birthday with family in Maldives Resort

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Bollywood star Akshay Kumar who turns 46 today, is currently ringing in his birthday with a bang in Maldives. His arrived Maldives with his family.

This will be the actor’s first birthday after he became a father again last year. His better half, Twinkle, gave birth to a baby girl, Nitara, on September 25, 2012, soon after his birthday last year. Therefore, this birthday is very special to him and wants to spend some quality time with wife and kids.

As far as career is concerned, Akshay had recently launched the official trailer and first look of his forthcoming film Boss on August 27, 2013. The film is slated to release on October 16, 2013.

The actor also has nearly four releases lined up — namely Pistol, Gabbar, It’s Entertainment and Gutka. The sequel to his much celebrated successful film Namastey London too is in the pipeline and is scheduled to release in 2015.

We wish Akshay a very happy birthday and a wonderful holiday in Maldives.

Maldives Resorts

Maldives Luxury Island Collections

Jumeirah Maldives Resorts launch new spa experience at Jumeirah Dhevanafushi & Jumeirah Vittaveli

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The luxurious Talise Spas at Jumeirah Dhevanafushi and Jumeirah Vittaveli in the Maldives are now offering a new menu of signature spa experiences.

All featured treatments use ingredients that are organic and indigenous to the region, as well as local wellness techniques to ensure a relaxing experience that reflects the idyllic surroundings.

In the southernmost part of the Maldives in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll, 400 miles from the capital of Malé, Jumeirah Dhevanafushi is a secret hideaway in the heart of the Indian Ocean.

With the new Signature Spa menu, the award-winning overwater Talise Spa has curated an indulgent assortment of experiences.

For a romantic option, couples can enjoy the ‘Dhevanafushi Romance’. This Chakra Well Being experience uses essential oils including Rose, Orange Blossom, and Jasmine as part of a warm and harmonious massage.

Alternatively, guests can opt for a bit of pampering with ‘Nature’s Secret’.

The spa’s talented therapists follow a longstanding Maldivian tradition using the warm island sands in compress massages to melt away any accumulated stress.

Additional aromatherapy massage helps to leave guests refreshed and full of vitality.

Each of the 35 villas at Jumeirah Dhevanafushi come complete with private butlers, so guests know that their every wish will be catered for; from guided snorkelling tours of the reef in the crystal clear Indian Ocean to private meals on secluded beaches.

They can also head to a choice of scenic island locations for a personalised tutorial with the resort’s specialist yoga master or join a group wellness class to build strength, boost metabolism or simply unwind.

Alternatively, spa lovers looking to enjoy personalised luxury closer to Malé can opt for Jumeirah Vittaveli, just a 20-minute boat ride from Malé International Airport.

Far from the clutches of stressful city life, Jumeirah Vittaveli is nestled in a spot of outstanding beauty, with every detail of a stay meticulously crafted to excite and indulge.

Talise Spa @ Jumeirah

Talise Spa @ Jumeirah

Talise Spa @ Jumeirah

Talise Spa @ Jumeirah

Talise Spa @ Jumeirah

Talise Spa @ Jumeirah

W Maldives Electrifies The Reef - W Retreat & Spa Maldives

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W Retreat & Spa Maldives electrifies its snorkeling experience as guests are invited to explore the retreats vibrant house reef under moon light!

 Snorkeling is no longer just a day time activity at the retreat. Once the sun dips over the horizon a Down Under guide, the retreats water sports activity center, escorts guests to witness marine life like never before. Equipped with a special black light and filter that sits atop of traditional snorkeling mask, W Maldives guests highlight the reef under a new light as marine life and coral reveals their fluorescent magic.

Tessa Van Den Abbeele, Director of Operation of Down Under says "We are thrilled to showcase W Maldives house reef in this way. This is a snorkeling experience that most people have yet to try and the reef surrounding W Maldives takes on a new life as fluorescent colors shine beneath the water 's surface- almost like an underwater disco". The one hour electrifying snorkeling trip, from 6pm - 7pm, is just US$120++. Alternatively, amplify your night excursion and head deeper with a guided night dive.

W Retreat & Spa Maldives is a tropical playground in the Indian Ocean that's perfect for relaxing, playing, and recharging for your next adventure. Connect with inner peace and go along with the pace of island life. Succumb to an inviting concept of dazzling blue waters, spectacular reefs and pristine sands infused with style and soul. Flirt with adventure over the water with adrenaline filled water sports activities, or discover the best dives spots with Down Under, PADI certified team of dive masters.

For reservation: Alpha Maldives Pvt Ltd.

Phone: 00960 792 2533

Website: www.AlphaMaldives.com

Source: W Retreat & Spa Maldives

World's first underwater spa awaits you in Maldives Luxury Resort

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How about a spa treatment underwater?

It may sound a little vague but Huvafen Fushi, one of the Maldives Luxury Resort claims to to have the world’s first underwater spa.

Besides its unique and enigmatic setting, it is also offering an innovative and lucrative wellness package. 

The Spa sports quite a catch name, ‘Lime’, and has treatments with distinctive names like like Lose It, Tone It; Cellulite Therapy and Stress Buster.

For those who would not like to venture into the marine, a special arrangement had been made.

The spa also houses above-water treatment rooms for those who wish to get pampered above the water.

The underwater rooms are made of a solid-cast resin to create the underwater structure which is set in the open ocean without causing any disturbance to the ecosystem in Maldives.

It took 12 months to build this spa.

According to the hotel the resin is five inches thick and it provides infinitely better clarity than the cheaper option of laminated glass.

The island is also home to the world’s first underwater restaurant.

Check the Availability at Huvafen Fushi

Maldives Luxury Resort Six Senses Laamu sold for $70 million

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The island resort of Six Senses Laamu operated on Laamu Olhuveli has been sold to Leisure Frontiers Limited, a subsidiary of Singapore-based Hotel Properties Limited (HPL).

Tourism news website Hotel News Resource stated that Olhuveli Laamu Holdings Pvt Ltd decided to sell the 97-villa luxury resort property based on adviced by Jones Lang LaSalle’s Hotels & Hospitality Group.

However, the Six Senses Hotels, Resorts & Spas will continue to manage the resort, the website said.

Six Senses Laamu comprises 70 over-water villas and 27 beachfront villas, supported by a wide range of world-class amenities and facilities.

Senior Vice President, Investment Sales Asia, Hotels & Hospitality, Jones Lang LaSalle Nihat Ercan said, “The Maldives is one of the world’s strongest gateway resort destinations and has had a phenomenal first half of the year, with visitor arrivals up 17% over the same period last year.”

He also said that the average room rates in the Maldives Resorts significantly outpace all other resort markets and a continued positive outlook has the island nation firmly on investors’ radar.

Scott Hetherington, CEO Asia of Jones Lang LaSalle’s Hotels & Hospitality Group said, “Six Senses Laamu will be Jones Lang LaSalle’s fourth transaction in the Maldives and sixth in the Indian Ocean over the past two years, bringing the total transaction volume overseen by the Group in the Indian Ocean to more than USD350 million.”

Sanctuary Sands Maldives, a subsidiary of Singapore-based CDL Hospitality Real Estate Trust purchased Angsana Velavaru resort for $71 million earlier this year.

HPL Hotels & Resorts, also a subsidiary of Hotel Properties Limited acquired Soneva Gili in Lankanfushi late last year.

Source: http://sun.mv/english/15689