Seven Stars Luxury Award Goes To Let's Go Maldives

Loading Maldives Offers.... Leading local travel agency Lets Go Maldives has won the 2017 Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Award.

Officials from Lets Go Maldives were present at the gala, which took place at the exclusive The Ecali Club on September 23, to collect the highest, most exclusive award in the industry; the Signum Virtutis seal of excellence.

Lets Go Maldives, which won the award in the Seven Stars Inbound Tour Operator category, is one of the largest travel agencies in the Maldives, with direct contracts and allotments with over 100 resort hotels and safari yachts across the Maldives. The agency also specialises in planning quality, custom-made packages at best prices, arranging luxury holidays for VIP clients, representing and handling travel agents, providing super-yacht charters, and aviation ground handling assistance.

Three resorts in the Maldives, including Hurawalhi Maldives, Ayada Maldives and JA Manafaru, also received the award.

After a cocktail reception filled with media and photographers, the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards Gala Ceremony was opened by the beautiful and talented celebrity presenter Ece Vahapoglu. Greek sensation Nina Lotsari entranced the audience with a spectacular performance accompanied by live music.

Special awards were also handed out on the night to companies which outclassed their rivals in particular sectors. Included in these special awards were Deer Jet, Mantis Collection, Hanging Gardens of Bali, Green, The Ecali Club, Italian Hospitality Collection, The Greek Villas, Despina Miraraki, Super Strom Vatsinas and Transcorp Hilton Abuja.

The Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards Gala Ceremony was a first for Greece, and witnessed the participation of CEOs, Presidents, Managing Directors, Owners and GMs, royalty, and celebrities from around the globe.

Khalil El-Mouelhy, Chairman, President and Founder, commented: “Today marked the fifth anniversary of the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards, and we feel honoured to have been able to celebrate this very special evening here in Greece and to have had the privilege to work with such an elite and distinguished organisation like The Ecali Club. I would like to express my appreciation for the winners for making this a global celebration and I would like thank The CEO of the Ecali Club, John Georgakakis, and the members of his team for their input, efficiency and unwavering dedication to excellence.”

Georgakakis, CEO of Ecali S.A., said: “The Ecali Club is famous in Greece for the high-profile events that took place in its premises in the past. Tonight we are deeply honoured to have been chosen to host the unique awards ceremony of the internationally recognised organisation ‘Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards’.  These awards represent true excellence, just like the Ecali Club, which represents the concept of eclectic living in luxurious hospitality.”

Now in its fifth year, the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards is designed to identify and to separate the exceptional from the very best by bestowing the Signum Virtutis, the seal of excellence upon the most exceptional luxury hospitality and lifestyle properties and products worldwide. The number of winners each year is capped in order to provide maximum exclusivity and benefit for the winners.

Hurawalhi, Ayada & Ja Manafaru Bags Seven Stars Luxury Award

Loading Maldives Offers.... Hurawalhi Maldives, Ayada Maldives and JA Manafaru have won the 2017 Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Award.

Officials from Ayada Maldives were present at the gala, which took place at the exclusive The Ecali Club in Greece on September 23, to collect the highest, most exclusive award in the industry;  the Signum Virtutis seal of excellence.

Set in the relatively unexplored Gaafu Dhaalu atoll in the south of the Maldives, Ayada Maldives offers 122 spacious villas and suites, with private pools, butler service and thoughtful five-star detailing. Traditional thatched-roof water villas stand on stilts over the resort’s peaceful lagoon, while beach villas offer absolute privacy amid tropical greenery alongside powder soft palm-lined white beaches.


Ayada Maldives.
Accessible via a 75-minute seaplane flight from the main Velana International Airport or by a 45-minute domestic flight to Hanimaadhoo Airport followed by a 35-minute luxury speedboat transfer, JA Manafaru is a peaceful haven situated in the northernmost atoll of Haa Alif, where world-class service is delivered amidst dazzling turquoise waters, white sand beaches, distinct Maldivian architecture and lush vegetation.


JA Manafaru.
Officially inaugurated in January, the five-star Hurawalhi resort is accessible by a 40-minute scenic seaplane flight from the main Velana International Airport, and offers 90 villas, including 60 Ocean Villas and 30 Beach Villas, for grown-ups who are seeking luxury and innovation. The villas are stylishly and beautifully conceived featuring soothing décor, sumptuous linens on king size beds, bleached wooden floors, and private terraces with panoramic views.


Hurawalhi Maldives.
After a cocktail reception filled with media and photographers, the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards Gala Ceremony was opened by the beautiful and talented celebrity presenter Ece Vahapoglu. Greek sensation Nina Lotsari entranced the audience with a spectacular performance accompanied by live music.

Special awards were also handed out on the night to companies which outclassed their rivals in particular sectors. Included in these special awards were Deer Jet, Mantis Collection, Hanging Gardens of Bali, Green, The Ecali Club, Italian Hospitality Collection, The Greek Villas, Despina Miraraki, Super Strom Vatsinas and Transcorp Hilton Abuja.

The Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards Gala Ceremony was a first for Greece, and witnessed the participation of CEOs, Presidents, Managing Directors, Owners and GMs, royalty, and celebrities from around the globe.

Khalil El-Mouelhy, Chairman, President and Founder, commented: “Today marked the fifth anniversary of the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards, and we feel honoured to have been able to celebrate this very special evening here in Greece and to have had the privilege to work with such an elite and distinguished organisation like The Ecali Club. I would like to express my appreciation for the winners for making this a global celebration and I would like thank The CEO of the Ecali Club, John Georgakakis, and the members of his team for their input, efficiency and unwavering dedication to excellence.”

Georgakakis, CEO of Ecali S.A., said: “The Ecali Club is famous in Greece for the high-profile events that took place in its premises in the past. Tonight we are deeply honoured to have been chosen to host the unique awards ceremony of the internationally recognised organisation ‘Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards’.  These awards represent true excellence, just like the Ecali Club, which represents the concept of eclectic living in luxurious hospitality.”

Now in its fifth year, the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards is designed to identify and to separate the exceptional from the very best by bestowing the Signum Virtutis, the seal of excellence upon the most exceptional luxury hospitality and lifestyle properties and products worldwide. The number of winners each year is capped in order to provide maximum exclusivity and benefit for the winners.

Upgraded Runway & Facilities, Kooddoo Airport Re-opens!!!

Loading Maldives Offers.... Kooddoo Airport reopened Monday after a major upgrade to accommodate narrow-body airliners and private jets.

At a special ceremony held at the airport Monday afternoon, President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom inaugurated the upgraded airport. Several ministers and top government officials attended the ceremony, where the new website of the airport and the new staff uniform were unveiled.

Kooddoo Airport CEO Mohamed Ali Janah, who is a leading figure in the local construction industry, said the runway has been extended as much as possible. Along with the extended runway, a new lounge serving business class and VIP passengers, and a dedicated harbour have also been developed, he added.

“The airport will be staffed by locals only. We have hired 15 new employees, increasing our staff to 58,” Janah said.

The new Code C runway of the airport measures 1,800 metres in length, and is able to accommodate Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 aircrafts as well as all categories of private jets.

Kooddoo Airport, located on the island of Kooddoo in Gaafu Alifu atoll, was initially opened on September 10, 2012 with twice daily service from the main Velana International Airport by flagship carrier Maldivian. The airport was developed with a 1,200 metre runway by Bonvests Holdings Ltd, a leading property development company from Singapore.

Bonvests Holdings owns the The Residence Maldives resort, and is currently developing another resort in Dhigurah island. Both the islands are just few minutes from Kooddoo Airport.

Kooddoo Airport also serves the recently opened Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort, located on the same island.

Over a million tourists from across the globe visit the Indian Ocean island nation every year to holiday in one of the 120 resorts and 300 plus guesthouses located in all corners of the country. The multi-billion dollar tourism industry, which is the country’s main economic activity, relies heavily on the domestic transport infrastructure, especially air travel.

Maldives, the most dispersed country on the planet with 1,192 islands spread over roughly 90,000 square kilometres, already has 11 airports, including three international airports. The government has contracted both local and international companies to develop additional domestic airports across the archipelago in a bid to boost tourism.

Visiting Wellness Practitioner Programmes in Niyama Maldives

Loading Maldives Offers.... Niyama Private Islands Maldives has announced a roster of visiting wellness practitioners.

Drift by Niyama offers a unique take on spa journeys, with the latest in beauty from the world’s leading brands and a visiting roster of wellness practitioners from Beverly Hills to Dubai. The schedule of visiting practitioners for the rest of the year and early next year include:

Inner peace and outer beauty with Katrina Valente (October 20 to November 10)

Join the Hollywood A-list with Intraceuticals oxygen facials – the first in the Maldives – and Dermapen mesotherapy, treatments which deliver tailored nutrients directly to the skin. Indulge in soothing massages such as raindrop therapy, originating with the Lakota Native Indians.

Katrina’s philosophy begins with the maxim that beauty radiates from the inside out. Her facials and anti-ageing treatments combine the latest medical innovations, 100 percent organic aroma products and the healing powers of holistic medicine. Each personalised consultation with Katrina begins with colour therapy to individualise treatments based on each individual’s chakras.

Trained at the Burghley Academy of Beauty in Cambridgeshire, Scottish-Italian beauty Katrina Valente is a master practitioner of reflexology, crystal therapy, Shamanic reiki and pranic healing, and has spent the last two decades based in Dubai giving holistic beauty treatments to royalty and socialites alike.



Non-surgical facelifts with Dr Alessi (December 22 to January 2, 2018)

Remove wrinkles and folds, contour and shape the planes of your face, or correct asymmetrically aligned features. Using a combination of Botox for crow’s feet and frown lines; Juvederm and Perfectha hyaluronic fillers to lift and contour cheeks, minimise nasolabial folds, wrinkles and skin depressions, and add volume to and contour lips; and Kybella, the first and only FDA-approved injectable treatment to improve the appearance of impurities beneath the chin by physically destroying fat cells. Treat yourself to a facelift without the invasiveness of surgery, all under Dr Alessi’s artistic hands.

As the founder and medical director of the Alessi Institute for Facial Plastic Surgery, Beverly Hills, Dr Alessi is certified by both the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology. Magician to the stars, Dr Alessi has appeared on Larry King Live, ABC News, CBS News, NBC News and CNN for his expertise in facial contouring.



Perfect health with Paulo Fernandes (December 27 to January 17, 2018)

Paulo will be hosting complimentary workshops on The Ten Steps for Perfect Health at Drift by Niyama. A holistic look at the combination of diet, hydration, detoxing and exercise, Paulo also introduces the wonders of nutritional microscopy and an alkaline lifestyle.

Discover the inner workings of your body, with a live blood analysis illustrating your nutritional needs, deficiencies and imbalances. Learn about targeted super foods and herbs to increase your energy levels. Sign up for a bamboo massage to melt away muscle pain, or a session of lymphatic detox with cavitation to remove accumulated toxins and break up localised fat deposits and cellulite with ultrasound.

Paulo Fernandes is a health coach certified by the Institute of Integrative Nutrition in Manhattan. Competing in international swimming from a young age, Paulo joined the Marines at 18 and became a Navy Seal officer. After receiving his PhD in sports, Paulo specialised in nutritional microscopy, naturopathy, raw nutrition and biontology. Paulo has travelled the world, from Los Angeles to London to Dubai, helping the elite reach their goals of maximum health and fitness.



Niyama, a popular A-list hideaway nestled in the Dhaalu atoll, offers guests exclusive access to its twin islands – Chill and Play – conveniently connected via a picturesque bridge.

The family-friendly retreat, surrounded by picturesque shorelines and lush vegetation, has nine deluxe room categories ranging from spacious beachfront studios and one-bedroom water pavilions to three-bedroom family beach pavilions with two private pools, jacuzzi and a personal spa treatment room. With state-of-the-art amenities, in-room fridges filled with gourmet treats, a private butler plus the magic of the Maldivian island, this is the ultimate antidote to city life.

The jewel in the resort’s crown is the magnificent Crescent, a playground of five ultra-chic villas, all with private pools, for up to 14 adults and eight children. Boasting a private chef, two butlers, a housekeeper and a host of complimentary activities including a sunset dhoni cruise and movie under the stars, this over water sanctuary is the perfect paradise treat for extended families, honeymooners and discerning travellers.

With nine dining destinations, including tree house restaurant Nest and the world’s first underwater playground Subsix, guests can enhance their stay at Niyama with surreal gastronomic experiences.

Young VIPs will adore the Explorers Kids Club with its range of activities including nature expeditions around the tropical isles to MasterChef classes, while adventure-seeking teens and adults will be inspired by the resort’s excellent water sports offerings such as surfing, scuba diving and jet-skiing. Wellness devotees looking to indulge in a spot of indulgent pampering can retreat to the tranquil Drift by Niyama spa while enjoying the crystal-clear turquoise sea views from the six overwater treatment rooms.

Inauguration Ceremony of "Mercure Maldives Kooddoo" Resort

Loading Maldives Offers.... President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom inaugurated the Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort on Monday.

At a ceremony held at the resort, the president was presented with a  plaque of appreciation by Ronald Leo, Chairman of resort owner Pristine Islands Investment Maldives Pvt Ltd, and Mohamed Ali Janah, Chairman of resort developer Hotels and Resorts Construction Pvt Ltd.



A memorandum of understanding was also signed at the ceremony between tourism ministry, Pristine Islands Investment and Hotels and Resorts Construction to create 1,000 training and employment opportunities for the youth from Gaafu Alif atoll.

Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort, the only resort in the Maldives with direct access to an airport, welcomed the first group of guests late last month.

The four star resort, developed on the island of Kooddoo in Gaafu Alif atoll, boasts 68 stylish and well-appointed villas, comprising 43 overwater villas and 25 beach villas with 20 of them featuring a private swimming pool. Attesting to the Mercure brand promise of an authentic experience, vivid colours and decorative motifs along with warm textures and local design touches are used tastefully throughout the villas in order to create a haven of peace with a strong local character.



Guests are offered several attractive dining options. The all-day dining Alita Restaurant serves Pan-Asian à la carte cuisine and themed buffets, with both indoor and outdoor seating. Vistas, an overwater restaurant and lounge, serves tapas, snacks and handcrafted cocktails, while the Alita Pool Bar offers cocktails and light bites with a view.

Suvadiva Divers, the resort’s five star PADI dive and water sports centre, provides aquatic excursions to the many unique and wonderful locations nearby. Several water sports options such as snorkelling, sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, catamarans, jet skis and fun tubes are also available.

Additionally, the resort has several recreational activities and facilities such as the 50-metre lagoon-side swimming pool, fully equipped fitness centre, tennis court, kids’ club and off-island day trips. The marine-themed Suvadiva Spa at Mercure Maldives Kooddoo, meanwhile, offers a range of treatments and therapies for guests in need of relaxation and rejuvenation.



Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort is the only resort in the Maldives directly accessible via domestic flight from the main Velana International Airport, with no need for an additional speedboat transfer. The domestic plane transfer to Kooddoo, which also houses a fish processing plant, takes about 55 minutes.

Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort is the first property run in the Maldives by French multinational hotel chain AccorHotels. The company has since taken over the management of Dhevanafushi from Dubai-based hospitality group Jumeirah, with plans to reposition the luxury resort under the iconic Raffles Hotels and Resorts brand.

AccorHotels has also signed up to manage another resort being developed in Gaafu Alif atoll.

Set to open next year, the Pullman Maldives Maamutaa resort is a traditional ‘one island, one resort’ property located a 10-minute speedboat ride away from its sister property, the Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort. The five star resort will offer upscale modern facilities such as two swimming pools, a sunset bar overlooking the lagoon, a luxury spa, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a kids club, beach playground, tennis courts, gourmet restaurants, organic gardens, a dive centre and a water sports centre.

Sheraton Maldives Hosts Charity Run to Raise Funds for Local Community

Loading Maldives Offers.... Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort and Spa hosted a charity run on Sunday to raise funds for the local Home for People with Special Needs.

The Run to Give 2017 was attended by over 250 runners, including Maldives top marathon runners Ahmed Athif and Mariyam Abdul Kareem. Several other runners and athletes from capital Male as well as guests and associates also took to the 3km track throughout the island and along its picturesque beach.

According to Sheraton Maldives, about USD 3,000 were raised through the run.

“Sheraton Maldives will continue additional activities throughout the year such as jumble sale amongst others to raise additional funds for Guraidhoo-based Home for People with Special Needs,” the resort said.



As part of parent company Marriott International’s Run to Give global campaign, Sheraton Maldives has hosted similar charity runs in the past two years as well.

Conveniently located just 15-20 minutes away from the main Velana International Airport and a kilometre away from the nearest inhabited island, Sheraton Maldives is a tropical paradise located on its very own private island and a heaven for those seeking stunning white sandy beaches and warm turquoise lagoons. The resort offers a total of 176 guest rooms in different categories and located both overwater and land.

Part of Sheraton Maldives appeal is the varied dining options available to its guests. From casual al fresco snacks to its international array of restaurants, visitors will find the perfect dining experience to suit their mood.

Located on its very own island, Shine Spa for Sheraton features six treatment rooms, hydrotherapy pool, steam rooms and relaxation lounge. The spa offers various treatments to rejuvenate your skin and calm your mind, including signature massages such as traditional Thai, aromatic body, deep ocean and many more. With ingredients derived from the natural Maldivian environment, spa therapists at the resort harnesses the healing power of nature to relax and renew you.

Velaa Private Island Wins Seven Gold Medals at Hotel Asia Culinary Challenge

Loading Maldives Offers.... Chefs from Velaa Private Island has won seven gold medals at the recently concluded Hotel Asia International Culinary Challenge.

At the culinary challenge held from September 17-20 at the main convention centre of Dharubaaruge in capital Male, the talented culinary team at Velaa won trophies for the Best Maldivian Dish, Best Young Chef, Best Plated Hot Dish, Dress the Cake, Best Tapas and Finger Food, Best Hot Pasta, and Best Appetiser.

“…. [this win proves that] Maldives is not only a place to relax, you can enjoy the best gastronomy as well,” an announced by the resort said.

“What are you waiting for? Come and let our Executive Chef Gaushan de Silva and his winning team pamper your palates while in paradise!”

Tucked away within the collection of islands that form the northern Noonu atoll, Velaa Private Island is elegantly positioned to overlook enchanting vistas of a cerulean ocean. Its name derived from generations of sea turtles that flock there to nest and hatch; it is comprised of 47 private villas, houses and exclusive residences. The resort also includes a Romantic Pool Residence which can only be reached by boat.


The Tavaru restaurant at Velaa Private Island. PHOTO/ VELAA
At Velaa Private Island, all details have been considered: each villa comes with a personal butler, all services offered can be tailored to personal specifications. Attention to detail everywhere is also impeccable: stone pavements from the desert in Jordan, Indonesian flowerpots, luxury wood panelling from Borneo, and glimmering Italian marble.

Named one of the world’s Top Five Best Hotels and more recently the ‘Best Wedding Hotel in the Maldives’, Velaa Private Island offers endless exclusive opportunities. These unique offerings include the Maldives’ first and only snow room, the largest and most extensive wine collection in the region, one of the few Maldivian resorts with a private submarine, an extraordinary kids’ club conceptualised as the world’s ideal kids’ club by the owner’s seven-year-old daughter, and the only resort in Asia with a My Blend by Clarins spa.

Personalising and tailoring the entirety of the island depending on specific requirements, there is no limit to ensure the ultimate experience. Guests can sit back in the knowledge that the island’s highly trained and dedicated butlers will cater to each and every whim. Whether it is watching a spectacular fireworks display within the Maldivian night sky, dancing into the early hours with an Al fresco live music event, stepping aboard the island’s private yacht for a glamorous sunset cruise or enjoying a private, open air cinema night, anything is possible. Other interactive activities perfect for private groups include gourmet cooking classes with one of the resort’s chefs or wine tasting within the Maldives’ largest wine cellar.

For those looking to get involved in some Indian Ocean adventure, Velaa’s new high-tech water toys including the hover board, jetpack and fly board serve as the definitive adrenaline rush. While discovering the wonders beneath the island’s welcoming waters, guests can learn to dive or simply snorkel the coral rainbow.

The Hotel Asia International Culinary Challenge has established itself as the premier culinary event in the Maldives, attracting chefs from local and international resorts whose work and creativity are evaluated by experts, including celebrated chefs from the world over.

This year’s edition saw the participation of 630 chefs in 20 categories. Their dishes were judged by world-renowned chefs from the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (WorldChefs).

A Bird Eye View of Maldives

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A Bird Eye View of Maldives

Soneva Fushi Wins Hicap Sustainable Hotel Award

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Soneva Fushi has won the Sustainable Hotel Award by the Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific (HICAP).

Soneva Fushi won the award in the Sustainable Investment category, which focuses on how sustainability has been incorporated into hotel investment decisions and investment models to make sustainability financially viable and generate positive impact.

“We hope this encourages other businesses to invest more in their sustainability initiatives,” Soneva said, in an announcement.

Awarding the recognition, HICAP stressed that Soneva Fushi, which is located on a remote island without access to an electric grid or potable water, has demonstrated remarkable financial ingenuity and ROI regarding its sustainability initiatives. For instance, a purchase power agreement was engineered to source electricity from a 700kW on-site solar installation, reducing annual energy spend by 20 percent with no up-front costs, it said.

HICAP also hailed the establishment of an on-site glass studio at Soneva Fushi to create innovative art from the operation’s glass waste for in-house display and guest purchase. Along with onsite vegetable production with food waste composting, such initiatives generated USD 265,000 in value in 2016, it noted.

Another initiative highlighted was the introduction in 2008 of a two percent environmental levy on all room rates. HICAP stressed that the funds (USD 6 million to date) are used for a variety of social carbon projects certified with Gold Standard carbon credits, which collectively have benefitted 185,000 people, while mitigating the hotel’s entire carbon footprint.

Established in 1995, Soneva Fushi is the original Soneva. The No News, No Shoes blueprint for all desert island barefoot luxury hideaways is located within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives. Soneva Fushi inspires the imagination with 57 spacious beachfront villas, ranging in size from one to nine bedrooms, hidden amongst dense foliage.

The iconic resort has bagged several international awards for eco-friendly tourism and green initiatives, including the 2017 Green Hotelier Award for the Asia Pacific region and a spot in the Gold List compiled by Condé Nast Traveler China as the Best Hotel in the Maldives.

Soneva Fushi joins Cempedak Private Island in Indonesia (Sustainable Design), and Hong Kong-based hotel chain Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts (Positive Community Impact) as winners of this year’s HICAP Sustainable Hotel Awards.

Winners will be recognised on October 20, at the closing HICAP Awards Lunch at the InterContinental Hong Kong.

The annual HICAP Sustainable Hotel Awards were launched in 2007, and are designed to recognise hotels in the Asia Pacific region creating innovative new methods, strategies and technologies to face today’s sustainable development challenge, while providing tangible examples of sustainable best practices that can be replicated and adapted across the region.

Organised and hosted by Burba Hotel Network (BHN), Horwath HTL and Stiles Capital Events, HICAP is Asia’s largest and longest running hotel investment event, making it the most important gathering of hotel developers, investors, lenders, operators and other industry executives for information exchange, trend spotting and deal making.

40% Discount For Amari Havodda Maldives on ONYX Flash Sale

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ONYX Hospitality Group has announced a limited three-day flash sale with up to 40 percent discount across more than 30 properties in its portfolio, including its resort in the Maldives.

During the flash sale, which is available for three days from September 20-22, guests can make a reservation directly on ONYX Hospitality Group’s website for stays until December 20. To make the booking, choose the destination, dates and number of rooms, and confirm the reservation by using the promotion code, FlashSale.

ONYX’s resort in the Maldives, Amari Havodda Maldives is included in the flash sale.

Located in the southern Gaafu Dhaalu atoll, Amari Havodda Maldives is accessible by a 55-minute domestic flight to Kaadedhdhoo domestic airport from the main Velana International Airport, followed by 10-minute speedboat transfer to the island. The resort offers 48 Beach Villas, six Beach Garden Pool Villas, six Beach Pool Villas, 58 Overwater Villas and two Overwater Pool Villas.

Dining options include Amaya Food Gallery that serves a selection of Asian delights, Ember Robatayaki that serves grilled sea food and Pizza Kaage where guests can enjoy light meals and get takeaway pizzas. Iru Bar is a beach bar, whereas cocktails, drinks and snacks can be enjoyed at Thari Bar while the sun shines and beyond at the pool bar.

With its location popular for diving and snorkelling, Amari Havodda features a dive centre. The resort also offers an outdoor pool, a kids pool water sports facilities, a fitness centre, a beach volleyball court and a tennis court.

Amari Havodda has recently announces a summer offer as well.

Maldives Tourism Promotion Discussion

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Travel bloggers and social media influencers from around the world gathered together with professionals from the Maldives tourism industry on Sunday to discuss ways to use new media technologies in promoting the Maldives as a tourist destination.
The first ever global travel writers’ conference in the Maldives kicked off Sunday morning at Bandos Maldives with a ceremony attended by    tourism minister Moosa Zameer and top officials from relevant government agencies.

Following the inauguration ceremony, the World Travel Writers’ Conference officially began with a keynote speech by New Zealand-born travel blogger Elizabeth Carlson on sharing experiences and the art of storytelling. In her speech, Elizabeth spoke on the importance of storytelling, and highlighted how it is related to content marketing in the present day.


It was followed by a keynote speech by Dr Sunny Umar, COO at local PR agency Maldives Getaways, on the significance of cultural tourism to the archeological history of the Maldives.

“Maldives is commonly known as a honeymoon or family destination, but the country should be promoted for its history, which is rich and full of intrigue. History is a strong selling point for travel enthusiasts, and that Maldives has a lot to offer history wise,” he said.

The two keynote speeches were followed by the first panel discussion, on the topic of turning factual stories into crafted narratives.

Moderated by Maldives Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) Secretary General Ibrahim Munaz and participated by Elizabeth, Sunny, Sardinia-based Claudia Tavani, Filipino travel blogger Ana Patricia Velarmino and Indian travel blogger Shivya Nath, the panelists agreed that travellers’ account plays a major role in creating a positive image, but that there is so much more to it than just standard of service. They noted that in order to tell a positive narrative of a destination, research on market influencers and writers has to be conducted.


Three more keynote speeches and two more panel discussions were held during the conference.

In her keynote speech, award-winning luxury travel writer Gina Samarato highlighted how multimedia plays a vital role in the travel industry, especially in bringing different experiences to life. She noted that combining her writings with images creates a much more positive effect than just text-based articles.

Meanwhile, local travel blogger Ahmed Ijaz spoke about how travel trends of Maldivians have changed throughout the years, noting that tourism has broadened both inbound and outbound tourism in the country.

The two keynote speeches were followed by the second panel, moderated by Mariyam Wisam, Registrar of Companies at the economic ministry. Gina, British travel photographer Stuart Vincent Forster, luxury travel writer Cacinda Maloney, adventure filmmaker John C Yoshihara, Russian travel blogger Yulia Safutdinova and Dr Ahmed Shan participated in the panel.

The moderator began by asking the panelists a simple question: when you wanted to come to the Maldives, how did you start your search? And what difference does it make? All the panelists admitted to have googled about the country, the location and what could be done there. For Gina, the cultural experience she has had in the Maldives was something she had not expected as it was not amongst the search results.

The last keynote speech of the conference was delivered by Janet Newenham, multi-award winning travel writer and blogger from Ireland, on what bloggers do. According to Janet, the work of bloggers and social media influencers is all about sharing their life in real-time. Sharing what they do via social media tools such as Instagram Stories, Snapchat, Facebook Live and more allows their followers around the world to know what they are doing exactly and to connect with them, she said.


Janet’s speech was followed by the last panel discussion of the conference, on the topic: are luxury travel destinations failing in their storytelling?

Mariyam Waseema, the Senior Policy Executive at the environment ministry, moderated the panel, which began with a question on how destinations could be promoted through storytelling. The panelists, who included Janet, Dutch travel blogger Tom Grond, travel photographer and videographer Allison Green, British travel blogger Jayne Gorman, PR and Communications Manager at Kandima Maldives Shafraz Hafiz and Corporate General Manager at Adaaran Resorts Suresh Dissanayake, noted the importance of incorporating more components such as travellers’ experiences into destination marketing. Destinations should be selling experiences rather than brands by including authentic stories that connect with travellers, they said.

The conference will officially conclude with a gala dinner and a networking session at Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi Monday evening.

Special Dining Experience With Award-Winning Chef Eyck Zimmer By Outrigger Konotta Maldives

Loading Maldives Offers.... Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort has announced a special culinary week with celebrated chef Eyck Zimmer.

In an announcement, Outrigger Konotta said Zimmer will be guest chef at the resort from October 21 to November 2.

While at the resort, Zimmer will create a special five-course menu on October 24 and 25 at the intimate 16-seat Driftwood Restaurant by the beach, followed by a special Halloween dish on October 31. During these events, wine pairing will be presented by guest sommelier LuAndre Volschenk.

Zimmer will also conduct a cooking class on the beach, with paired wines. Participants of the private cooking class, which will cost USD 150 per person, will receive an Outrigger chef’s apron, a signed menu and a photograph with Zimmer.

“Eyck’s visit is a wonderful opportunity for guests to make the ultimate pairing of world class beach setting and sumptuous cuisine,” John Allanson, General Manager of Outrigger Konotta, was quoted in the announcement, as saying.

“It will be a marvellous occasion for our guests. Eyck looks forward to meeting everyone before, during and after the dinners.”

Zimmer was born in Erfurt, Germany in 1969.

“In those days of the Cold War, Erfurt was part of East Germany. But I was lucky to grow up in a family where good food was always appreciated. Both my grandmother and my father were keen amateur chefs. Their passion for cooking encouraged me at quite an early age to take it up and experiment with their recipes,” he said.

When the Berlin Wall came down, Zimmer was liberated and quickly moved to learn and then perfect his trade in some of the best restaurants in Europe. On arrival in Madeira in 2003, after earning many accolades at the best restaurants in London, Zimmer found inspiration in the Portuguese sun.

“I discovered fusion cuisine. A marriage of Portuguese, Asian, French and North African influences allowed me to experiment with all manner of innovative and intriguing dishes,” he said.


Zimmer is pictured with some dishes he prepared. PHOTO/ OUTRIGGER
Zimmer has wowed diners and culinary judges across his native Germany, Switzerland, UK, Hong Kong and Portugal in a 30-year career that has seen him cook in some of the best restaurants in the world: Claridges, The Dorchester and The Ritz in London; The Palasthotel, Berlin; The Grand Hotel Regina, Grindelwald, Switzerland; and The Choupana Hills in Madeira, Portugal.

He has won accolades such as Portuguese Chef of the Year 2008, British Chef of the Year 2006, Meilleur Ouvrier de Grande Bretagne 2000, and Ordre Du Merite Agricole, to name a few.


An accolade received by Zimmer from former US President Barack Obama. PHOTO/ OUTRIGGER
Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort is accessible via a 55-minute flight from the main Velana International Airport to Kaadedhdhoo Airport followed by a scenic 30-minute journey on a luxurious private speedboat. The resort comprises 29 Beach Pool Villas, 21 Ocean Pool Villas, two Lagoon Pool Villas and a masterful three-bedroom Grand Konotta Villa, offering guests a complete sense of privacy and intimate luxury.

Kurumba Maldives Hosts Live Performances of Country Singer Jessica Meuse

Loading Maldives Offers.... Kurumba Maldives is set to host four live performances by country singer/songwriter Jessica Meuse.

Jessica, an American Idol finalist, will be celebrating her “Birthday In Paradise” with four live performances from October 19-22.

“I’m completely ecstatic to be performing my first set of shows outside the USA at Kurumba Resort in the Maldives,” she was quoted in an announcement, as saying.

“I have friends who have visited this magical place and it’s always been a dream of mine to travel there. I’m excited to see what future opportunities, as well as what inspiration and wild experiences will come about!”

Jessica’s tenure on American Idol yielded eight singles released by the franchise, which were then followed by two independent singles.

Currently, she is working with manager Jim Ervin completing her debut full-length album at Capitol Studios, which will be released first quarter 2018 on Warrior Records/eOne. She has also been nominated as Top Five Female Vocalist Of The Year in the 2017 Texas Country Music Awards, which will be hosted by Mark Chesnutt in a live ceremony on September 28 in Carthage, Texas.

Besides being a touring artist, Jessica also dedicates time to raising domestic violence awareness and works with Children’s Cancer Association’s MyMusicRX. She recently visited Children’s Hospital Los Angeles to perform for the kids and will also be participating in CCA’s upcoming Bedstock Fest on November 28th.

Kurumba Maldives, the first resort in the Maldives, has emerged as a grand resort of distinctive style and panache after a complete reconstruction. Located a 10-minute speedboat ride away from the main Velana International Airport, Kurumba’s lovingly nurtured tropical gardens include an orchid nursery. Shaded paths lead from one side of this 30-acre circular island to the other, while intimate white beaches are protected by eco-breakwaters of weathered coral.

With 180 bungalows and villas dotted throughout the island within verdant foliage only a pace or two from the beach, Kurumba offers a wide range of luxurious accommodation. The villas and rooms have wooden floors and are elegantly furnished with solid timbre furniture.

In addition to the newly opened King Thai restaurant, the resort boasts seven restaurants and five bars featuring an impressive variety of cuisines, including Italian, Japanese, Indian and Lebanese choices.

Offering a wide range of treatments, Veli Spa proposes the traditional Dhivehi Beys treatments, as well as both modern and traditional treatments. This complements the resort’s recreational offerings such as its two outdoor freshwater pools, three tennis courts and the fitness centre.

Dusti Thani Maldives Lucky Draw for Their Fifth Anniversary Celebration

Loading Maldives Offers.... Dusit Thani Maldives has announced a lucky draw to celebrate its fifth anniversary.

To enter the lucky draw, entrants should like Dusit Thani Maldives’ Facebook page and answer this question in the comments using the hashtag #DusitThaniMVcelebrates5: “Name the island Dusit Thani Maldives is located on.”

According to the resort, last entry date will be at 5pm (UTC+5) on September 18.

One lucky winner will be chosen at random during a live Facebook event on September 21 to win a holiday of two nights in a beach villa with breakfast.

Located on Mudhdhoo Island in Baa atoll — the Maldives’ first ever UNESCO Biosphere Reserve — Dusit Thani Maldives blends gracious Thai hospitality with the unparalleled luxury setting of the Maldives. This luxury island resort comprises 94 villas encircled by white sandy beaches, a stunning 360 degree house reef and a turquoise lagoon. With a unique combination of beach and lagoon accommodation, Dusit Thani Maldives provides an unmatched luxurious escape for all travellers.

The resort offers a 360 degree vibrant house reef compliment with a turquoise lagoon, a 750-square metre infinity swimming pool with a lush Banyan tree in the centre, five restaurants and bars with breathtaking views and a Kids Club that is committed to making children’s dreams come true.

The Devarana Spa at Dusit Thani Maldives encompasses six deluxe treatment pods, which sit elevated amongst the island’s palm trees. For those who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground, the spa has also developed two stunning ground level treatment rooms. Manicure and pedicure-dedicated area, private outdoor pool, steam and sauna are exclusively available for spa guests.

Matato Hosts Global Training Programme On China Travel Market

Loading Maldives Offers.... Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) has hosted a leading global training programme on China outbound travel market in the Maldives.

The training programme, run worldwide by world’s leading research institute on China market China Outbound Tourism Research Institute (COTRI), was held at the Champa Central Hotel in capital Male on Monday.



Targeted towards sales teams and marketing executives in the travel industry, this training programme offered deep insights into the characteristics, expectations, motivations and needs of Chinese travellers, enabling tourism service providers to customise their marketing strategy and services to attract the right Chinese traveller.

The programme, which is recommended by the European Travel Commission (ETC) and endorsed by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), was facilitated by COTRI Founder and Director Professor Wolfgang Georg Arlt, who is a member of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Panel of Tourism Experts and a visiting professor at universities in China, United Kingdom and New Zealand.



Successful participants were awarded certification as Chinese Tourist Welcome Quality Hosts for two years.



Maldives ranks amongst the most favoured holiday destinations for Chinese travellers, but the Chinese market has posted major declines over the past year. Arrivals from China, which still remains the single biggest source market, has dropped 10.3 percent in the first half of this year to reach 141,495 from 157,764 in the same period of last year.

MATATO, in partnership with renowned global organisations and institutes, hosts several training programmes for the Maldives travel and tourism industry. Amongst them are the recently concluded PATA Academy programme, and a customer service and social media marketing programme.

Mirihi Island Announces Yoga Retreat for Solo Travellers with prominent yogi Claudia Geux

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Mirihi Island Maldives has partnered with Claudia Geux, one of the most experienced yoga instructors in Europe, to offer solo travellers an exclusive yoga and meditation retreat.

During the retreat, which runs from December 3-10, Mirihi Island’s aspiring yogis will be invited to start the day against the backdrop of the rising sun with an energising yoga session led by Claudia. Come evening, guests will align their senses with Claudia’s meditation session, where individuals can balance and synchronise their mind, body and soul through chanting and breathing techniques.

For those with specific targets, there is also the option of payable private sessions which can be booked and tailored to an individual’s ability, preferences and interests.

Zurich native Claudia discovered a passion for the ancient practice of yoga while travelling in New Zealand several years ago. Over time, her preferred yoga style has emerged as Vinyasa Flow; meaning classes are taught in a flowing and creative way, accompanied by calming, tranquil music.

The yoga and meditation retreat costs USD 4,890 per person. The price is inclusive of taxes, and includes accommodation in a water villa on half-board basis, daily yoga and meditation, and return seaplane transfers.

“With the exclusive island destination removing the single supplement from all villas during this period and offering yoga and meditation daily, it is the ideal time for solo travellers craving a winter ‘digital-detox’ to visit. The retreat, which includes half board, will appeal to those in search of a hassle-free holiday,” an announcement by the resort read.

“The yoga and meditation retreat is back by popular demand following two successful retreats in 2016 and early 2017, and with solo travel set to become one of 2018’s biggest travel trends, Mirihi Island is now paving the way for guests who want to travel by themselves.”

The resort has, meanwhile, extended its Solo Travel offer until December 20, following an impressive number of solo traveller bookings during the summer period.

Located in the South Ari Atoll, Mirihi Island is an intimate resort with only 37 rooms, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere with friendly staff. Guests will immediately feel at ease in the safe and beautiful environment. With sand covered floors throughout much of the hotel, guests can relax upon arrival where they will be encouraged to abandon their shoes and enjoy their stay barefoot with the powder-soft sand between their toes.

Travellers looking to socialise and meet like-minded people can book sunset sailing trips, whale shark safaris, diving trips, visits to local islands, sessions tasting the most comprehensive selection of fine rum in the whole of the Indian Ocean, and can enjoy complimentary weekly beach cinemas, board games, table tennis, football and more.

Alternatively, guests can enjoy some time away from it all in their private water or beach villa, on a secluded beach or while enjoying a pampering spa treatment.