Maldives posts 19.7pc increase in ME tourist numbers

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

Source: tradearabia

A Month-by-Month Guide for Visiting the Maldives

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Picture-postcard scenery, crystal-clear waters that teem with a myriad of marine life, and footprint-free white sandy beaches shaded by swaying coconut palms that are lapped by gentle waves, the Maldives is easily one of the world’s most beautiful destinations. Home to more than 1,200 tropical islands, atolls, and sandbanks, the Maldives offer a wealth of activities for all tastes, ranging from snorkeling and scuba-diving to swimming, surfing, and sun-worshipping, which can be enjoyed year-round.
The Maldives is hot and sunny all year, with average temperatures of between 23ºC / 74ºF and 31ºC / 88 ºF, making it an ideal year-round destination for some fun in the sun. There are, however, better times of the year to travel to the Maldives, as some months see higher rainfall and winds than others. The island nation enjoys the best weather between November and April with full days of sunshine, warm air and sea temperatures, and very little rainfall. The monsoon season runs between May and October, peaking around June, with the northern atolls seeing the highest rainfall between May and November, and the southern atolls between November and March.

Dry Season and Wet Season

The dry season in the Maldives typically runs from around mid-December through early May, but these tend to change each year. The Northeast Monsoon season, which is most prevalent in the northern atolls, actually occurs between November and March, but due to being the dry season, it rarely amounts to anything more than a quick downpour or shower, a couple times a week. The rainy season in the Maldives runs from early May through mid-December, with the Southwest Monsoon season (in the southern atolls) officially being in July and August.

Cloudbursts and Sunshine

Typical of the tropics, when it rains in the Maldives, it pours down heavily for a short time and then clears up just as quickly. Even during the dry season, it is not unusual to have a brief, torrential downpour in the afternoon, followed by a beautifully clear and balmy evening. During the rainy season, it tends to rain more at night, so days are sunny and bright with just a few interspersed clouds and some light rainfall. It’s rare to have more than a few cloudy days per week with sunny days in between.

Humidity

It is relatively humid all year round in the Maldives with a typically muggy tropical feel, which takes a few days to become acclimatized to. The temperature, however, rarely peaks much above the averages, so even the high humidity is never unbearable like it can be in Mediterranean Europe during the hottest summer months.

Winds

Being an archipelagic island nation strung through a vast portion of the Indian Ocean, steady winds cross through the Maldives throughout the year, bringing cool breezes to the islands. During the Southern Hemisphere winter, which lasts from March until October, the North-East and South-West monsoons bring off-shore winds that create beautiful, peaking surfing waves for those who are there to surf.

1. January

The Maldives’ weather in January sees hot, sunny days with low humidity and plenty of sunshine. There might be a slight chance of some rain, but this tends to occur in the afternoons and passes over quickly. The ocean is clear and warm with excellent visibility and is perfect for snorkeling and scuba-diving.

2. February

February is probably one of the best months to visit the Maldives. It’s the nation’s driest month, with less than 70mm of monthly rainfall, around 10 hours of sunshine every day, and balmy temperatures of 30°C / 86°F plus. Visibility is excellent for snorkeling and scuba-diving.

3. March

March in the Maldives sees temperatures rising to an average of 30°C / 88°F which are great for long, lazy days on the beach, sunbathing, snorkeling and swimming. There might be a few possible short bursts of rain, which offer relief from the steaming temperatures, and visibility is excellent for snorkeling and scuba-diving. March is also the beginning of the surfing season in the Maldives, which brings beautiful waves and last until October. During this ‘surfing season,’ the biggest waves are most likely to occur between June and August, caused by storms in the Roaring Forties bringing big swells to the archipelago.

4. April

This is another gorgeously hot month in the Maldives with temperatures reaching into the mid-30s / 80s. April is officially the end of the dry season, and frequent showers begin to occur around the middle of the month. The air also becomes more humid, however, visibility for snorkeling and scuba-diving is excellent.

5. May

May is officially the beginning of the wet season with hot, muggy days, average temperatures of 31°C / 88°F, and a high risk of heavy rainfall and storms during the day. Due to the heavy rainfall and higher levels of plankton in the water, visibility for snorkeling and scuba-diving is slightly reduced, but still enjoyable. Be aware that if there are thunderstorms in the area, it’s not a good idea to be in the water, so head down to the beach for some water-based activities.

6. June

While June has a high chance of rainfall and reduced visibility due to the plankton in the water, this is a fantastic time to dive with manta rays and whale sharks that come to feed on the vast amounts of plankton in the water. This month sees many of the resorts offering special deals where visitors can enjoy the plethora of non-beach and water-based amenities that they have to offer. 

7. July

The Maldives’ weather in July is hot and humid, with short heavy downpours. This is a particularly good time of the year for surfers with the largest waves stemming from the storms in the Roaring Forties bringing big swells to the archipelago. Swell is amazingly consistent during this time of the year, with the average wave measuring two to eight-foot in height. It is also still a great time to dive with manta rays and whale sharks that come to feed on the enormous amounts of plankton in the water. The 26th July is the Maldivian Independence Day and sees parades and public celebrations on most of the resort islands.

8. August

August is hot, humid and wet, with an average of seven hours of sunshine each day and short heavy downpours throughout the day. Visibility is slightly reduced due to the plankton in the water, but many of the resorts offer enticing deals, making it a favorite time to visit.

9. September

September in the Maldives is one of the wettest months with average maximum temperatures of 30°C / 86°F and around seven hours of sunshine each day. Due to the heavy rainfall and higher levels of plankton in the water, visibility for snorkeling and scuba-diving is slightly reduced, but still enjoyable with excellent chances of seeing manta rays and whale sharks.

10. October

October is the Maldives’ wettest month, with high humidity and full days of rain. This is the last month of the Maldives’ surfing season, with the South-West monsoons, which occur between May and October, providing outstanding surfing the Northern and Central Atolls. Due to the heavy rainfall and higher levels of plankton in the water, visibility for snorkeling and scuba-diving is slightly reduced, but still, a great time to dive with manta rays and whale sharks.

11. November

November in the Maldives is the end of the wet season with short showers in the afternoons and otherwise bright, sunny days. Temperatures average around 30°C / 86°F, and the visibility of the water begins to clear of the plankton, making for good scuba-diving and snorkeling.

12. December

The climate in December is primarily hot and dry with showers around the middle of the month. This time of year is ideal for a mid-winter escape and some sun. Christmas and New Year are particularly popular and may include minimum stays at some resorts.

Four Seasons Adds Even More Luxury to Resort in Maldives

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

Source: asiatraveltips

Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa Preserves Island Home

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Green Globe recently recertified Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES, August 22, 2019 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Located in North Huvadhoo, one of the largest natural atolls in the world, the Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa is a haven with natural white beach, azure lagoon and a 360° house reef steps away from each villa.

Green Globe recently recertified Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa with the resort achieving a high compliance score of 86%.Pravin Kumar, General Manager at the property said, “Environmental preservation and sustainability was not just an idea created during the resort’s operational years. Ever since the resort’s early design phases, the dedicated commitment to environmental preservation and sustainability has very much been and continues to be a culture. While we provide guests with a barefoot luxury holiday experience, we also acknowledge that our presence leaves a footprint. We will continue our green efforts and strive to sustain and preserve this place that we call home.”

Management and staff members adhere to a comprehensive Sustainability Management Plan. Water and energy consumption, monitored daily and monthly, have met predicted targets and reduction goals for 2020 have already been set. A solar panel on one of the buggies has been trialled at the resort and it is hoped that solar powered buggies will be launched on a larger scale in coming years.Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa ensures that Maldivian culture is represented throughout the resort. Locally made beads and fabric have been incorporated into Do Not Disturb signs on doors and tasty Maldivian short eats are provided for snacks. Fun facts about the islands are promoted in all rooms via an iPad compendium that can access information about Maldivian history and culture, and environmental knowledge such as the formation of the atolls.

Locally employed team members who can best showcase and explain daily life on an island act as guides for guests when visiting other neighboring islands. Furthermore, the resort plans to train local residents as dive instructors in the future, which will provide viable livelihoods for those in the wider community.

Waste management in the Maldives has been challenge in the past and the resort keeps an up-to-date record of where all waste goes and how much is recycled. Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa recycles approximately 50% of its waste. Almost all glass and used oil is recycled. Plastics are sent to an international non-profit organization, which collects and re-cycles plastic waste that can be used in products such as branded sports apparel and shoes.

Source: einnews

LUX* NORTH MALÉ ATOLL INTRODUCES A SURFER’S PARADISE

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

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

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

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

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

Source: visitmaldives

Saudi Arabi tourist market to Maldives booms

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

Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi has us dreaming of turquoise waters and pristine beaches

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IT'S PERFECT FOR YOUR NEXT GETAWAY

The vibe:

This idyllic 120-villa resort, a part of AccorHotels, is a 50-minute seaplane ride from Malé. Check into one of their luxurious Tented Jungle Villas, which are set amid lush surroundings, and take in the starlit sky from the privacy of your plunge pool or the large outdoor bathtub built for two.

The activities:

Spend your days kayaking or snorkelling off the resort’s reef, where you can spot sea turtles and manta rays as they lazily swim by. Or take off for a private picnic on one of the resort’s neighbouring islands, where you’ll be left alone to spend the day on a sandbank and swim to your heart’s content, before tucking into a gourmet meal. And if you want to immerse yourself in local culture, visit the neighbouring island of Utheemu, where you can learn about the island nation’s history.

The food:

The overwater Japanese restaurant Kata serves Kaiseki set menus, Robatayaki-style fare, and of course, sushi and sashimi. Azure is all about fresh seafood, and a meal here entails the daily catch paired with fine wine (the Maldivian tuna curry is a must try). After dinner, make a pit stop at the gorgeous all-bamboo poolside bar Onu Onu for a nightcap and a walk on the beach.

Don’t leave without:

A little self-indulgence at Willow Stream Spa, which offers massages, facials and Ayurvedic treatments. Try the Coconut Experience, an authentic Maldivian therapy that begins with full-body exfoliation, followed by a rub-down, warm healing stones, and finally, a wrap. Or opt for the Caviar Marine Facial, which harnesses the anti-aging potential of caviar protein, coupled with an algae-based sheet mask that will leave you radiant.

Source: elle.in

MALDIVES REACHES 1 MILLION TOURISTS MILESTONE

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

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

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

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

MALDIVES IDYLL AMILLA FUSHI ILLUMINATES WELLNESS OFFERING WITH SENSORA CHROMOTHERAPY

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Luxury Maldives trendsetter Amilla Fushi has introduced cutting-edge SENSORA therapy at its world-renowned Javvu Spa; a multi-sensory immersive experience designed to bring profound peace and balance to mind and body. The SENSORA Light Modulation technology is one of the most advanced chromotherapy systems in the world, clinically proven to bring the brain to rest, effortlessly reduce stress and induce deep relaxation.
SENSORA offers a unique multi-sensorial environment combining light, sound and kinaesthetic vibration. The advanced colour-light system recharges the brain’s electrical field and positively interacts with various bio-rhythms such as brainwaves, breath and heartbeat. The combination of associated colours and frequencies offers many beneficial effects including deeper relaxation; enhanced alertness; increased release of endorphins and reduction in chronic pain, helping to fight insomnia and fatigue; treat anxiety, mental tension and depression; and much more.
Sessions at Amilla’s Javvu Spa can be tailor-made to meet specific wellness needs following a consultation with qualified therapists, or guests can choose one of four 25-minute sessions including RELAX, a soft experience suitable for all to promote deep relaxation; ENERGY, an intense experience designed to centre energy chakras and ignite creativity and inspiration; BALANCE, a feast of colours to harmonise the nervous system and rebalance energy; and MEDITATION, a guided session based on the techniques of contemporary meditation master Osho to explore deep relaxation.
Each session uses combinations of colours, modulation frequencies and light rhythms specifically programmed to induce the desired mood. A sophisticated projector comprising 20 independent LEDs directs its light onto a large hemispherical screen while an enhanced audio system plays a spatialised soundtrack into the surrounding space. Reclining on an ergonomic chair, guests are immersed in an ocean of pure colour while simultaneously enjoying a sound massage; eight transducers within the chair convert the sounds into kinaesthetic sensations. Shorter sessions of 5, 10, 15 and 20 minutes are also available, and can be combined to create bespoke experiences.
Recently crowned the world’s ‘Best Luxury Jungle Resort Spa’ at the World Luxury Spa and Restaurant Awards 2019, the Banyan tree-shaded Javvu Spa features 10 treatment pods; a yoga pavilion; fitness centre; a wet area; a private training studio and Wellness Café. Javvu’s holistic approach is complemented by an integrated spa menu of blissful pampering, featuring results-driven treatments from a carefully curated edit of world-class brands and ancient healing and energy therapies. Most recently, Javvu became the first spa in the Maldives to introduce therapeutic treatments incorporating activated hemp-based products with cannabidiol (CBD).

Source: thearrival

Top 5 things to do in the Maldives

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When you think of the Maldives, the sparkling, deep-blue waters of the Indian Ocean under a forever-present sunlight immediately spring to mind. It’s no wonder that the first occupants of the island, from India, worshipped water and sun.Fast forward thousands of years and nothing much has changed – people still visit the islands for their water and the sun. If you are lucky enough to call this piece of paradise home for a while, here are five things to do while you’re there.

1. Snorkel and scuba-dive

The Maldives are considered one of the best diving and snorkelling spots in the world, so if that’s what you’re after, there is no better place to be. Whether you are a beginner or advanced, there will be ample opportunity to see what lies beneath the blue waters. New diving and snorkelling areas are still being discovered in the Maldives, and the options are endless.

2. Go on a sunset cruise and watch dolphins

A boat cruise is a great way to end the day in the Maldives, especially in the company of dolphins. Cruises usually last about two hours. Once on board the champagne flows, and with a glass of bubbly in hand you can kick back and enjoy both the dolphins and the sunset. If you are looking for a little more privacy you can hire a private cruise, which is perfect for special occasions and celebrations.

3. Discover Malé

Malé is the capital city of the Maldives and at some point during your stay, it would be a great idea to dust off the sand and make your way there. Tours usually take you to local markets for a little bit of shopping and then to the President’s Palace. For lunch you can try any of the restaurants overlooking the waterfront before making your way back to your resort.

4. Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the islands

Everywhere you look in the Maldives, you’re surrounded by beauty – but not many people get the chance to take to the skies and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the islands. Trans Maldivian Airways offers a standard photo/flight package during which you will fly over the islands for 15 minutes. Just remember to bring your camera and take as many pictures as you can.

5. Pamper yourself

When in the Maldives, it’s also a great idea to relax and pamper yourself. Few things beat a beauty treatment and a full-body massage while overlooking the Indian Ocean. Most resorts have their own spas and beauty treatments available, so simply lie back and let the sound of ocean wash over you as you enjoy a session of pampering.

Source: flightcentre

Hard Rock Hotel Maldives opens next month

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

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

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

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

Rooms & suites

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

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

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

Gold Beach Villa

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

Platinum Overwater Villa

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

Platinum Overwater Pool Villa

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

Rock Royalty Overwater Pool Villa (two bedrooms)

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

Rock Villa

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

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

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

Source: news.paxeditions

Vakkaru Maldives introduces Manta Ray experience

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Guests will have  opportunity to swin with reef Manta Rays

Vakkaru Maldives resort has introduced the Manta Ray Adventure package from August to October. The Manta Ray package features the two-hour manta snorkeling experience. The package includes a half-hour speedboat ride to the Hanifaru Bay marine protected area, Baa Atoll where the crew will guide the reef manta rays towards the snorkeling guests.

Vakkaru Maldives has also announced its participation in the Manta Festival scheduled for 20 September to 21 September 2019. The property will sponsor snorkeling fieldtrips to Hanifaru Bay for local students in Baa Atoll with the aim to provide an educational experience about protected marine life in the Baa Atoll.

Source: hoteliermiddleeast

10 Stunning All-inclusive Resorts in the Maldives

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1. Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa    

      

The airy suites and overwater villas at Centara  are a welcome reward after a seaplane and a speedboat ride. Some even feature private plunge pools and steps that lead directly into a sparkling coral reef. Upon check-in, you’ll be met with a glass of Champagne, signaling the start to your carefree vacation. Thanks to the generous all-inclusive plan at this family-friendly outpost (notably one of the most inclusive in the country) guests can enjoy a daily spa credit, up to three dives per week, and one excursion, like a sunset cruise or snorkeling tour during your stay. That’s on top of all meals and drinks, including a mini-bar that’s refreshed daily and includes beer and two bottles of wine.

2. LUX* South Ari Atoll

On the island of Dhidhoofinolhu, the aptly-named LUX* South Ari Atoll , with its 193 villas perched above a lagoon, offers a perfect balance of indulgent pampering and action-packed adventures. The standard all-inclusive rate covers meals and drinks at six of the seven onsite eateries, yoga classes, access to the spa’s plunge pool and garden, an impressive selection of watersports, and a snorkeling trip to the house reef. Upgrade to the Premium package and you’ll get to choose from a long list of add-ons for your stay, such as a cooking class, wine tasting, Balinese massage, sunset cruise, or whale shark safaris, just to name a few. Grab a cold brew from the café (beans roasted on-site) before perfecting your tan at one of two infinity pools.

3. Maafushivaru

Go barefoot, or go home. Here at Maafushivaru , the reception area, as well as certain lounges and walkways, are all sand-floored. Accommodations range from spacious Beach and Pool Villas with outdoor rainfall showers and private decks, to splurge-worthy, lavish Water Villas, built right over the lagoon and accessible by private walkway. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffets, high tea, and most beverages (spirits, cocktails, and wines by the glass) are included in the all-inclusive plan, in addition to a sunset cruise and the use of snorkeling equipment. Yours will be the only footprints in the sand at Lonubo, a tiny deserted islet that shares the same lagoon and is exclusive to guests at Maafushivaru. Lonubo can even be booked for an overnight stay, or at the very least, a romantic dinner for two — albeit for an additional cost.

4. Lily Beach Resort & Spa

Hermes toiletries, Jacuzzi plunge pools, direct beach access, and unmatched ocean views — these are the delights that await guests staying in a glass-floored villa or suite at Lily Beach Resort & Spa . With the Platinum Plan, you can send the kids off to Turtle Kids Club, while you enjoy unlimited cocktails and live entertainment at the resort’s seven restaurants and bars. Each guest receives two complimentary excursions per stay, which might be a sunset cruise, coral garden snorkeling, or a day trip to a local fishing village.

5. Komandoo Maldives Island Resort

This rare, adults only retreat in the Lhaviyani Atoll facilitates romance in every way, with overwater and beach villas (many of which have private Jacuzzi tubs) and an all-inclusive Gold package that includes a sunset cruise and a one-hour spa treatment per week. The resort invites you to explore, with a group windsurfing trip, an introductory dive, and a trip to nearby Hinnavaru island all part of the rate. And while it's not included with the package, guests should still make a reservation at Hurawalhi Maldives — Komandoo’s sister property — for lunch or dinner at undersea restroom . While you work your way through the tasting menu, you can watch tropical fish, turtles, and even manta rays flit past your table, submerged 5.8 meters under the cobalt waters.

6. Kandolhu Maldives

Each of the 30 stylish villas at this intimate resort are a dream for architecture fans, with five distinct floor plans that capitalize on their locations throughout the property. Soak in a bathtub set behind floor-to-ceiling windows, nothing but blue in sight. If that isn’t enough to keep you on the grounds, Kandolhu’s Ultimate Inclusions plan covers all meals at the resort’s four restaurants, wines found in your personal wine chiller, a spa discount, and more, including either one snorkeling tour or champagne sunset cruise per person, per stay.

7. Constance Moofushi

Hop aboard a Maldivian dhoni boat for your complimentary 90-minute excursion around the island of Moofushi, nestled within the South Ari Atoll, because the Cristal All-Inclusive Package at this Constant Resort leaves nothing to be desired. You can have pancakes by the pool, unlimited signature cocktails, and all of your meals at the sand-floored restaurant where the menu changes daily. Even wine pairings from the expansive wine cellar are covered. There are also more than 30 dive sites within a half hour of the island (additional fees apply), but you’ll likely be perfectly happy spending your time relaxing in your thatch-roofed villa floating above the turquoise sea.

8. Constance Halaveli

Moofushi’s sister property, Constant Halaveli, caters to multigenerational trips, with family, two-story, or Presidential villa options, and the on-site Constance Kids Club, where little ones can play in the sand, learn how to make pizza and ice cream, or watch movies. For adults, all villas come with a private plunge pool and terrace. The island itself is shaped like a dhoni and sits in the North Ari Atoll, making it a prime location for diving, snorkeling, and dolphin watching. The all-inclusive rate takes care of all meals and beverages (at select restaurants and bars), free Wi-Fi, and one scheduled diving excursion per stay, among plenty of other perks like complimentary in-room movies and snorkeling equipment.

9. Adaaran Prestige Water Villas All Inclusive

Twenty upscale villas, outfitted with chic, wooden interiors and glass-bottomed sundecks, hover over the waters of the Raa Atoll. Take full advantage of  Adaaran Prestige’s abundant amenities and lovely details, like sparkling wine upon arrival, daily fresh fruit and hors d’oeuvres, and nightly turndown service, complete with petit fours. Should you actually have a need for something, butler services is on-call around the clock. Booking the all-inclusive package gets you meals and drinks, a beach dining experience, a 30-minute spa treatment, one diving session, and a sunset photo cruise or nighttime fishing tour.

10.Four Seasons Private Island at Voavah

For $36,000 per night, you can cross “live like a celebrity on a remote private island” off your bucket list. Voavah assures prospective guests that there are accommodations for private staff, should they need it, and that flying in big name acts to create a mini-Coachella is totally doable. It’s all about supreme luxury at the seven-bedroom, three-villa paradise situated on UNESCO territory. The resort even boasts its own yacht and seaplane, private chefs, and a spa stilted above the lagoon. The stay is fully customizable: snorkel with manta rays in the morning, enjoy a lobster-themed dinner, and end the night reveling in the talents of a Maldivian dance troupe.

Source: travelandleisure

VELAA PRIVATE ISLAND ANNOUNCES SUMMER OFFER FOR EXTENDED MALDIVES HOLIDAYS

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Velaa Private Island has announced a special summer offer for extended holidays in the Maldives. 

Specially tailored to provide some much-needed relief to those looking to escape the Gulf during the summer months, the ‘Velaa Stay 7 Pay 5’ offer allows guests that book a minimum of seven nights to enjoy two complimentary nights. Guests travelling from now until mid-October will reap the benefits of an extended holiday to feel refreshed and rejuvenated.
With the offer valid on all villa categories except on Beach Pool Villa and Sunrise Water Pool Villa, guests can choose between the gorgeous Deluxe Beach Pool Villas set amongst lush tropical flora, or the stunning overwater villas situated in the azure lagoon.
Situated in the gorgeous Noonu atoll in the Maldives, 187km north of capital Male, Velaa is the conceptualisation of a dream to create a ‘beyond luxury’ boutique hideaway. With its huge array of water sports, snorkelling and diving activities on offer, along with a private pool found in every villa, the island is cool on every level.
The resort comprises 47 private villas, houses and exclusive residences. Whilst 18 of the 47 are built over water, the Romantic Pool Residence can only be reached by boat.
The mesmerising natural beauty of Velaa, its unique style, and its sophisticated appeal also extends to its celebrated restaurants; in particular Tavaru, known for its distinctive soaring tower, offering a refined degustation menu celebrating Teppanyaki grill cuisine. Alternatively, guests can dine with their feet in the sand at Athiri restaurant, which dishes up fine dining international cuisine, or savour a bespoke and unique gastronomic experience at Aragu where a three- to five-course tasting menu is created based on each guest’s personal preferences. Guests can select from a simple list of prized ingredients (Maldivian lobster, Japanese Bluefin tuna, Anjou pigeon and more) and wait for the magic to begin.
Allowing plenty of opportunity for guests to chill out, Velaa even offers a snow room — the only one in the Maldives — in their luxurious Spa My Blend by Clarins, with icy conditions and light, fluffy snow to bring your body temperature down. Priding itself on privacy, world-class cuisine, personalised service and a huge line-up of refreshing activities, Velaa is a cool retreat for guests this summer.

Source: maldives.net

Paradise island: Opening of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

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

WALDORF ASTORIA SERVES UP ISLAND GETAWAY IN THE MALDIVES

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

Source: tophotel

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

Source: theworldnews

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

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

FUSHIFARU MALDIVES CELEBRATES WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS WIN

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

Source: maldives.net

Live Out Your Mermaid Dreams at This Underwater Restaurant in the Maldives — No Fins Required

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Serene. Opulent. Positively spellbinding. There truly aren't enough words in the dictionary to describe Sea, an aptly named underwater restaurant in the Maldives. Part of the Anantara Kihavah Villas resort, Sea offers visitors up-close-and-personal views of surrounding coral reefs and marine life — no scuba fins or oxygen mask required. The restaurant's expansive, kaleidoscopic windows blanket the space in a dreamy turquoise color, making for an aquatic dining experience Disney's Princess Ariel would definitely approve of.
As for the menu, Sea serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner — for quite the pretty penny, as one might expect of such a luxurious destination. Breakfast rings up at $200 per person, lunch will set you back around $295, and dinner can cost up to nearly $400, depending on how many courses you prefer. But hey, I suppose it's the price you must pay to say you ate Maldivian lobster while the very same crustacean swam by outside the window by your table.
Needless to say, Sea is one big Instagram photo opp waiting to happen, as evidenced by the multitude of pictures shared by travelers who've been lucky enough to dine there. Whether you have a trip to the Maldives in the books or simply enjoy gawking over unreal travel destinations that make your budget whimper with despair (the latter sums me up, personally), you can keep reading to admire all the best snapshots of Sea's jaw-dropping views.

Source: popsugar

Best 10 Dining in paradise: The Maldives' finest tables

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Maldives is made up of 26 atolls filled with over 1,000 islands occupied by dozens of resorts -- all spread out over 90,000 square kilometers -- so hopping between properties for meals isn't really an option. Not to worry, the food in these 10 resorts is as much of a draw as the white sand and stunning sunsets.

1. Shades of Green, Soneva Fushi

The barefoot luxury resort of choice for celebrities including Madonna, Paul McCartney and the Beckhams, it's no surprise that Soneva Fushi's dining options are among the very best in the Maldives. Choices on this private island include sushi restaurant So Hands On, an eight-seat private dining space developed in a partnership with three Michelin-starred Japanese chef Kenji Gyoten. And then there's Shades of Green. As the name suggests, the focus is on plant-based cuisine and diners begin their tasting menu by chef Carsten Kyster with a tour of Soneva Fushi's extensive gardens, where snacks are hidden amongst the foliage. The bounty of produce surrounding diners is then crafted into five impressive gourmet courses.

2. Fenesse, Jumeirah Vittaveli

Amongst a selection of no fewer than nine places to eat, Jumeirah Vittaveli's fine dining restaurant Fenesse combines both classic and contemporary French cuisine. Kobe beef tartare, organic herb-crusted rack of lamb, Lobster Thermidor or the classic French fish stew bouillabaisse are just some of the choices on the menu for gourmets dining above the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. Guest Michelin-starred chefs from around the world like Ollie Dabbous and Anthony Demetre are regular visitors too, bringing their own unique style and experience to the resort's lucky diners.

3. Manta Ray Treehouse, Joali Maldives

The recently opened Joali Maldives features a particularly unusual dining destination. At the Manta Ray Treehouse, guests eat nestled amidst the trees in spaces crafted from natural materials that are designed to resemble two of the giant aquatic beauties. Each space seats up to eight diners, who feast on Maldivian menus featuring local favorites such as tuna with chilli and lime, fish curry and native lobster.

4. Le 1947, Cheval Blanc Randheli

Le 1947 at Cheval Blanc Randheli takes its name from a famed vintage wine from Château Cheval Blanc. It's no surprise then that the restaurant's focus is elegant French gastronomy served in a setting that is as haute as the cuisine. Eric Vidal is the culinary director. Inspired by local ingredients, he crafts a 12-course tasting menu that changes weekly. Diners can expect dishes that draw on his global experience, such as warm king crab with caviar and yuzu, or tuna and watermelon foam with basil powder.

5. Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

Ithaa at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island scored a unique first when it opened in 2005, becoming the world's first undersea restaurant. Five meters under the waves, diners look out to coral gardens and take in the ocean's remarkably diverse marine life. Lunch could include a salad of butter poached lobster with white peach, artichoke and roasted garlic soup or a honey-roasted pumpkin cheesecake. Open for cocktails, lunch and dinner, Ithaa can also be reserved for private dining or even a wedding.

6. Aragu, Velaa Private Island

Aragu means "essence" in the Maldives' Dhivehi language and is the name of the signature restaurant at Velaa Private Island. Here, chef Gaushan de Silva lets diners choose ingredients, then works his magic in personalized menus. Chef Gaushan has worked around the world, including as private chef to the Jordanian royal family. His menus could feature produce including Gillardeau oysters or pigeon from France, local lobster and Japanese tuna. Vino fans with deep pockets can also enjoy one of the Maldives' biggest wine collections.

7. Destination Dining, Baros Maldives

Baros Maldives opened to the public back in 1973 and, more than 45 years later, the former coconut plantation still offers fine dining experiences. In common with other resorts in the Maldives, options include both traditional restaurants and private dining spots. Amongst the latter, their secluded sandbank is a popular choice and can be booked throughout the day. That could mean a breakfast of smoked salmon and champagne, a sushi lunch or a barbecue for dinner. Whichever you choose, the romance quotient is undeniably high.

8. Tai, COMO Maalifushi

Amongst COMO Maalifushi's culinary choices for guests, one favorite is oceanside dining at Tai. It translates as "red snapper" in Japanese, a sustainable fish served along with many others in their sunken sushi bar. Their signature dishes include partially-grilled aburi rolls with ocean trout or Wagyu, as well as toothfish saikyoyaki, which means it's marinated in white miso. One special feature at Tai is the regular appearance of a 1.5-meter wingspan stingray known as Aki-san, which swims close to the restaurant at sunset and enjoys being fed premium sashimi.

9. Baraabaru, Four Seasons Kuda Huraa

South Asia is the focus at Baraabaru, which means "excellent" in the local Dhivehi language, at Four Seasons Kuda Huraa. The restaurant's design is inspired partly by the architecture of the southern Indian state of Kerala, while Indian flavors are matched with local seafood. Their Thali offering lets diners sample a selection of home-style dishes served together on an elegant tray, while they also offer "Tandoor Tapas," small plates of contemporary Indian street food that can be served on their torch-lit deck under the stars.

10. White Orchid Restaurant, JA Manafaru

JA Manafaru is celebrating fine Chinese cuisine through a partnership with famed Beijing-based chef Dong Zhenxiang, more popularly known as DaDong. The resort's White Orchid restaurant serves his innovative contemporary Chinese cuisine, created with local ingredients. That approach translates into dishes including wok-tossed spicy Maldivian lobster, Maldives seafood hot pot or Wagyu with leek and basil.

Source: edition.cnn