Maldives-based Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts is set to tap the high-end luxury segment in the Indian market with the opening of its all-inclusive resort, The OZEN by Atmosphere at Maadhoo. The property will offer 90 keys, comprising 44 beach-front villas and 46 on water villas. Within this mix, the resort will offer a 2-bedroom family suite on the beach and a high-end water suite.
Talking about the property, Dinesh Bhaskar, Group Director–Sales and Marketing, Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, said, “The OZEN by Atmosphere at Maadhoo will open on July 15, 2016. We have curated the entire experience and elements according to the needs of discerning travellers. We believe OZEN will be the next big hospitality development in the Maldives with its location and the exceptional services we have on offer for e.g., the underwater fine dining experience at OZEN is also included within the Luxury All-Inclusive plan being offered at the resort.”
The OZEN by Atmosphere at Maadhoo is situated at a 35-minute drive by speed boat from the Male International Airport. Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts is targeting high-net worth individuals with private jets, business class travellers and celebrity guests to The OZEN property. Bhaskar said, “There is a huge segment within the Indian market, who are looking for exotic and personalised experiences, without diluting the brand & segment positioning. OZEN is about quality from the time the discerning customer arrives at the Male` International Airport.”
Bookings for The OZEN by Atmosphere at Maadhoo were opened three months ago. “We already have firm bookings of 7,000 room mights from world-over. By August-September, with word-of-mouth publicity, I expect this momentum to pick up within the Indian market too and results will be seen during the upcoming Diwali holidays,” Bhaskar said.
In India, Mumbai-based Krisia Holidays is the Preferred Partner for Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts. Suraj Dalwani, MD, Krisia Holidays, said, “The OZEN by Atmosphere will offer an opportunity to book and live the five-star luxury experience. We are getting inquiries from cities like Jamnagar and Bhubaneswar, besides the Tier-I markets. We are working with our trade channel partners to create awareness about all the Atmosphere resorts.”
Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts also operates The Atmosphere Kanifushi and The Oblu by Atmosphere in the Maldives. “In 2014, Atmosphere Kanifushi welcomed 1,800 customers from India, which increased to 2,400 in 2015, and we are hoping to close the year with 2,750 guests from the country. For Kanifushi, India is the 6th largest source market, globally,” Bhaskar said.
Lux upgrades luxury resort in the Maldives
Lux Resorts & Hotels has unveiled a series of upgrades being undertaken at its luxury resort in the Maldives.
The Lux South Ari Atoll will reopen on 1 September 2016 following a “complete refurbishment”. On the island’s east side there will be 49 pool villas, including 46 with seven-meter pools and three with 14-meter pools. These three larger units will form the resort’s adults-only area, and also come equipped with twin showers and private terraces that feature “couples’ love nests”.
Two kilometers to the west, there will be 38 water villas and a two-bedroom Lux Villa, which will complement the resort’s 105 beach villas, 12 of which feature private pools.
The resort’s seven restaurants and five bars are all undergoing a major upgrade. Highlights will include beach side Italian, Indian/Arabic and international outlets, dedicated sushi, teppanyaki and robatayaki counters, and the largest selection of sakes and Japanese whiskies in the Maldives.
Lux will also bring its beach club concept to the island, which was first seen at its flagship Lux Belle Mare in Mauritius. The new Beach Rouge will serve seafood and wine, among other items.
The resort’s spa is also being renovated to incorporate a traditional Chinese tea house, a new area for skin and body care and an extended lagoon-view relaxation area.
And finally, Lux South Ari Atoll will introduce a series of “expert-led workshops” that allow guests to learn a range of skills such as painting, photography and meditation.
“The brand vision is to offer our guests different luxury hospitality experience; helping people celebrate life, by making each moment matter. I have no doubt Lux South Ari Atoll will become a real spot in the Maldives, with its fresh and exciting new look and its incredibly passionate team, getting ready to welcome guests. We have a winning combination” shares Paul Jones, CEO of Lux Resorts & Hotels.
The Maldivian Thriving Guest Houses Industry
Fast forward to 2016, we are now in a Maldives where the guesthouse business has become a common household name. It has become one of the fastest growing industries – becoming a fully-fledged business, with several businesses and organizations endorsing them and coming to their aid. While almost all of the islands of the country sport a guesthouse, several commodities have been arranged for such businesses such as the ‘guesthouse internet’ by Dhiraagu.
‘Guesthouse Internet’, Ultimate Wi-Fi Solution for Guesthouses
In the world which has been subject to globalization over the years, it is incredibly important to access high speed internet no matter where you are. And that is one of the premier challenges faced by guesthouses – especially ones in the remote or rural areas of the country. With the ever growing guesthouse community, it had become a pivotal challenge for the telecommunication companies of the country bring a solution to such issues – and the country’s telecom giant, Dhiraagu has finally taken a step towards an ultimate solution and introduced the ‘guesthouse internet’ initiative."With this service, guest house customers will be able to access fast internet services from fiber optic cables, with private wi-fi hotspots via cloud wi-fi network system. Guest house owners will be able to offer their customers enhanced services," Dhiraagu revealed.
Dhiraagu said with the package, customers will be able to access cloud based centralized wi-fi management system, Unified Threat Management (UTM), manage and analyze traffic, guest portal and branded guest log-in page, different packages for guests, easily generate access codes, special relationship management and 24 hour technical support.
Guest House Insurance Scheme
It is inevitable that insurance has become a vital part of our lives today. From health to motor, we make sure to insure all things dear to us – and to take it one step further, Allied Insurance’s Amana Takaful recently announced the ‘Guest House Insurance’ scheme.The special package introduced for guesthouses include; Fire, Business Interruption, Public Liability and Burglary along with Natural Disaster covers. In addition to these, the package also offers additional covers such as Money Takaful, Employee Personal Accident Cover in addition to the plate glass cover.
Such packages by the leading insurance company of the country goes on to show how fast the industry has been growing and how different and various organizations are jumping on the bandwagon to support such business. It won’t be long before we experience even more advanced options being available for guesthouse owners.
Industry Tax Guide: Tourist Guest Houses
Not everyone is an expert when it comes to numbers and accounting, and due tax payments. And when such systems exist – especially ones specific to certain businesses it sure makes life easier to have a handy document that guides you around it all to teach you the ropes. The Industry Tax Guide published by Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA) aims to do just that.“Since tourist guest houses are subject to a number of taxes, it is important for guest house operators and those venturing into the industry to be fully aware of the tax implications”, MIRA said as they published the document.
The guide explains the requirement to register for various taxes and how to go about doing it, the taxes guesthouses are subject to, the tax returns guesthouses must file and the payments guesthouses must make, the deadlines for filing tax returns and making payments, what records guesthouses must maintain and other tax-related information which guesthouses need to know. In short, the book is covers everything you need to know about the taxes that you are responsible of paying – which could be found online through the official website of MIRA.
While these are just some of the very noteworthy initiatives by various organizations, there is no doubt that in the near future there will be even bigger and better initiatives in support of the local guesthouse industry. From non-existence to mainstream, the industry has proven itself within the span of just a few years – and it is only forecasted to grow by the numbers with each passing day.
Maldives without limits - Hurawalhi
This is the Maldives redefined; a truly unique five-star resort experience, nestled amongst the spectacular coral reefs of Lhaviyani Atoll, opening in October 2016.
Just a 40-minute seaplane flight from Male, here are a distinctive collection of superbly designed, exclusive and supremely spacious villas strung across the glittering lagoon - perfectly positioned, so that all guests can enjoy either sunrise or sunset panoramas. And with dining options that include on the beach, over the water, and even under the water, the philosophy here is that nothing is impossible.
Offering 90 Villas including 60 Ocean Villas and 30 Beach Villas, Hurawalhi is a sanctuary of serenity for grown-ups who are seeking luxury and innovation. The residences are stylishly and beautifully conceived featuring soothing décor, sumptuous linens on king size beds, bleached wooden floors, and private terraces with panoramic views.
With a strong environmental focus, Hurawalhi gives back to the Maldives as much as it gets. Using solar panels, its own water bottling plant, energy saving solutions, hot water recovery and an in-house marine biologist, Hurawalhi’s eco credentials are the finest in the Maldives.
In addition, Hurawalhi is collaborating with WiseOceans, the marine conservation and education specialists. WiseOceans are teaming up with the resort’s own in-house 5* PADI instructors in order to provide educational guided dives and snorkelling through the spectacular nearby reefs and shipwrecks. The island is a nesting site for green turtles and WiseOceans are tasked with preserving this natural habitat as well as educating visitors on these beautiful and endangered creatures.
The scene-stealer is the underwater restaurant, named 5.8 and will send senses soaring in this unparalleled setting, located 5.8 meters beneath the sea. Each dish blends the best ingredients with innovation and style, resulting in a showcase of imaginative modern cuisine, combined with an incredible location, wine and service. Surrounded by out of this world marine views, the minimalist-designed restaurant keeps the focus outside; and rates high on romance - every table is set for just two. The menu concept is a multi-course tasting extravaganza also available with wine pairing options narrated by the sommelier.
Coming up for air, above the water, the Aquarium restaurant offers staggering sea views by day and a romantic flicker of candlelight by night. Serving a contemporary menu with thoughtfully sourced ingredients, organic and artisanal, a Teppanyaki grill, there is an emphasis on the freshest of local seafood and the finest quality of prime beef with delectable sushi, sashimi and tempura all prepared by a personal, highly skilled chef.
Canneli is a third option for dining, serving international cuisine prepared to the highest standards whilst overlooking the tranquil Indian Ocean. Private beach dining al fresco under the stars is also encouraged, allowing guests to create once-in-a-lifetime memories in a romantic setting second to none, enjoying signature lobster and wagyu beef created by a personal chef. The seductively lit bar is directly on the beach with al fresco decking overlooking a glimmering pool and lagoon, and includes a comprehensive shisha selection.
For activity seekers there is tennis, badminton and beach volleyball, with a sports fishing boat for deep-sea fishing. There is incredible diving on offer including guided diving and snorkelling boat trips and a complete PADI 5* training centre. There are jet skis available as well as para gliding, water skiing, wakeboarding, paddle boarding, windsurfing, kayaks and catamarans.
Hurawalhi’s blissful Duniye Spa brings visitors closer to nature overlooking the vibrant turquoise water. Duniye means “universe” and the name represents its philosophy: a universal approach to wellness, with treatments inspired by ancient and modern expertise from around the globe. A strong influence from the healing traditions of Asia and Africa can be seen in the spa’s repertoire, including the use of local ingredients and treatments inspired from traditional cultures. Channeling wholeness, simplicity, purity and quality, the spa uses only the highest quality chemical free, organic compound products from ‘Healing Earth™ - they are all free from petrochemicals, synthetics, colourants, DEA, preservatives and parabens.
Indeed, there are countless reasons to visit the Maldives: dazzling white sands, cyan-blue seas, spectacular underwater life, and incredible sunsets. The opening of the extraordinary Hurawalhi ensures that this destination will remain unmissable in the years to come.
Heartfelt hospitality in the Maldives
Many Arabs, especially young couples, find the Maldives an attractive destination. Many Arabs and Gulf citizens keep searching for resorts in the Maldives that offer high levels of privacy and where they can pamper themselves on a magical holiday.
JA Manafaru is one of the best resorts in the Maldives, offering a luxurious family holiday and a place for couples to make their dreams come true. JA Manafaru, a place where holiday-makers can become stress-free, is located in a breathtaking setting some 75 minutes by seaplane from Male International Airport in the northern Haa Alif Atoll of the Maldives.
Once the seaplane lands, resort employees are on wait for guests with welcoming drinks, songs and small cold towels. They are then driven in a car to their accommodation. The resort’s employees are always smiling and try to satisfy their guests by ensuring they are at hand and asking after them. They are always there for people, even if what the guests ask for is not their responsibility to provide.
The resort offers several types of rooms suitable for couples, and small and large families up to 8 to 12 people. These include the Sunrise Water Villas with Infinity Plunge Pool, the Beach Bungalow with Private Pool, One Bedroom Beach Suites with Private Infinity Pool, and Sunset Water Villas with Infinity Plunge Pool.
The property boasts 84 keys consisting of beach villas and water villas, eight food and beverage outlets, and a spa and beauty complex. It also offers a water sports and PADI dive center, and an extensive children’s entertainment area.
Parents can keep their children in the kids’ club without worrying since employees are at hand to not only take care of the children but are also trained to babysit. In the kids club there is a small swimming pool, a playroom and special activities that include cooking and drawing. Although the club closes at 8 pm, parents can still avail of the babysitting service after 8 pm.
Next to the kids’ club, there is a chill zone where people can relax by having a cup of coffee, tea or juice, or play billiards. In the chill zone, there is also a small gym that is open 24 hours. The steam room is open the entire day and there is also an outdoor tennis court.
Guests can carry out several activities during the day. This includes water sports such as jet skiing, snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, stand-up paddling, catamaran sailing, jet skiing, wake boarding, mono-skiing, knee boarding or water-skiing and much more.
The resort also offers guests fishing and sailing trips. On return, guests can have the fish cooked at the resort. Boat trips at sunset to watch dolphins are also on offer. Guests can also go by boat to Govvaafushi Island, which is part of the resort, and enjoy time there. Guests can stay in the island and swim alone and also spend the entire day there. An emergency phone will be with the guest if he needs anything or wants to return. In the castaway, the person can enjoy lunch and watch the sunset. The place is very private and very few people ask to spend the night on the island.
JA Manafaru participates in special international days like celebrating Earth Day by planting trees and International Women’s Day by having special activities for female employees and guests. Cooking classes are also on offer each day. Participants in the class learn how to cook a Maldivian main dish, bread, as well as dessert. There are also special night events, including Maldivian Night every Friday at the Kakuni restaurant. Guests can also enjoy several varieties of breakfast, including several Japanese dishes and an oriental breakfast.
Food lovers would enjoy the restaurants and cafés. Lunch is highly recommended at one of the poolside venues. Visitors can pick between Andiamo Bistro and Pool or the Infinity Bar and Pool
At the Andiamo Bistro and Pool, pizza is one of the best dishes to be ordered, particularly Duck Pizza. The Infinity Bar and Pool is well known for its beef burgers which include vegetables and eggs.
White Ocean is another restaurant where visitors can sit overlooking the ocean and have Japanese, Chinese and Thai specialties on a teppanyaki table for an authentic Asian fusion cuisine experience and artistic presentation.
Ocean Grill is another beachfront restaurant that serves local seafood and delectable meat, freshly prepared on a live grill and seasoned with organic herbs.
Horizon Lounge is a café where families can enjoy the sunset and spend their night listening to English music performed by a live singer. This café closes at around 11.30 pm.
The Calm Spa should also be visited and offers a sophisticated collection of aromatherapy massages and treatments. This includes Shidehara, Ayurvedic or a traditional Maldivian massage or healing ritual. The center is open daily from 10 am to 8 pm.
Before leaving, guests can buy some souvenirs from the small shop next to the reception or get some necklaces from the gallery shop. People can post their pictures on social media at anytime since free WIFI is available in most of the island. To top off, the resort accepts US dollars and euros.
JA Manafaru is one of the best resorts in the Maldives, offering a luxurious family holiday and a place for couples to make their dreams come true. JA Manafaru, a place where holiday-makers can become stress-free, is located in a breathtaking setting some 75 minutes by seaplane from Male International Airport in the northern Haa Alif Atoll of the Maldives.
Once the seaplane lands, resort employees are on wait for guests with welcoming drinks, songs and small cold towels. They are then driven in a car to their accommodation. The resort’s employees are always smiling and try to satisfy their guests by ensuring they are at hand and asking after them. They are always there for people, even if what the guests ask for is not their responsibility to provide.
The resort offers several types of rooms suitable for couples, and small and large families up to 8 to 12 people. These include the Sunrise Water Villas with Infinity Plunge Pool, the Beach Bungalow with Private Pool, One Bedroom Beach Suites with Private Infinity Pool, and Sunset Water Villas with Infinity Plunge Pool.
The property boasts 84 keys consisting of beach villas and water villas, eight food and beverage outlets, and a spa and beauty complex. It also offers a water sports and PADI dive center, and an extensive children’s entertainment area.
Parents can keep their children in the kids’ club without worrying since employees are at hand to not only take care of the children but are also trained to babysit. In the kids club there is a small swimming pool, a playroom and special activities that include cooking and drawing. Although the club closes at 8 pm, parents can still avail of the babysitting service after 8 pm.
Next to the kids’ club, there is a chill zone where people can relax by having a cup of coffee, tea or juice, or play billiards. In the chill zone, there is also a small gym that is open 24 hours. The steam room is open the entire day and there is also an outdoor tennis court.
Guests can carry out several activities during the day. This includes water sports such as jet skiing, snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, stand-up paddling, catamaran sailing, jet skiing, wake boarding, mono-skiing, knee boarding or water-skiing and much more.
The resort also offers guests fishing and sailing trips. On return, guests can have the fish cooked at the resort. Boat trips at sunset to watch dolphins are also on offer. Guests can also go by boat to Govvaafushi Island, which is part of the resort, and enjoy time there. Guests can stay in the island and swim alone and also spend the entire day there. An emergency phone will be with the guest if he needs anything or wants to return. In the castaway, the person can enjoy lunch and watch the sunset. The place is very private and very few people ask to spend the night on the island.
JA Manafaru participates in special international days like celebrating Earth Day by planting trees and International Women’s Day by having special activities for female employees and guests. Cooking classes are also on offer each day. Participants in the class learn how to cook a Maldivian main dish, bread, as well as dessert. There are also special night events, including Maldivian Night every Friday at the Kakuni restaurant. Guests can also enjoy several varieties of breakfast, including several Japanese dishes and an oriental breakfast.
Food lovers would enjoy the restaurants and cafés. Lunch is highly recommended at one of the poolside venues. Visitors can pick between Andiamo Bistro and Pool or the Infinity Bar and Pool
At the Andiamo Bistro and Pool, pizza is one of the best dishes to be ordered, particularly Duck Pizza. The Infinity Bar and Pool is well known for its beef burgers which include vegetables and eggs.
White Ocean is another restaurant where visitors can sit overlooking the ocean and have Japanese, Chinese and Thai specialties on a teppanyaki table for an authentic Asian fusion cuisine experience and artistic presentation.
Ocean Grill is another beachfront restaurant that serves local seafood and delectable meat, freshly prepared on a live grill and seasoned with organic herbs.
Horizon Lounge is a café where families can enjoy the sunset and spend their night listening to English music performed by a live singer. This café closes at around 11.30 pm.
The Calm Spa should also be visited and offers a sophisticated collection of aromatherapy massages and treatments. This includes Shidehara, Ayurvedic or a traditional Maldivian massage or healing ritual. The center is open daily from 10 am to 8 pm.
Before leaving, guests can buy some souvenirs from the small shop next to the reception or get some necklaces from the gallery shop. People can post their pictures on social media at anytime since free WIFI is available in most of the island. To top off, the resort accepts US dollars and euros.
A special place for me The Centara Grand Maldives
My first visit to the Maldives was in the 90's and more recently I have returned every year since 2013. A total of five visits.
The Maldives is a special place for me. It has a completely unique environment and I thoroughly relax and I enjoy chilling out in this peaceful and beautiful space.
With a rich culture, gorgeous vistas and spectacular marine life, it's one of my favourite destinations. I quickly adopt a 'life is good' attitude. One of total relaxation and enjoying being away from our usual routines. It draws me back year-after-year. I can truly say that the Maldives is a brilliant holiday destination – one of the best.
With 1,190 islands, land is still the scarcest resource in the country, making up less than 1% of its surface area and one of the lowest lying countries in the world (average height of only 1.5 metres).
My hotel of choice for the last four years has been the Centara Grand. Being a former hotelier I know there's nothing like the personal touch. Staying in the resort as a recognised regular guest, it's extra special. You get a sense of being part of a family. It's something quite unique and this is absolutely synonymous with the Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa.
Getting to the Maldives could not be easier. Travelling from Bangkok with my partner Pichai, we boarded a direct flight to the International Airport in Malé, the capital and most populous city in the Republic of Maldives. With Bangkok Airways it's just 4 hours 15 mins from Suvarnabhumi Airport. Over the years, I have become a member of their frequent FlyerBonus club and take advantage of 10 kg extra baggage as a result, which is handy but not really necessary for this trip.
You don't need that much luggage in the Maldives. Staying at a beach resort, you spend much of the time in shorts and T-shirt and as the title suggests - barefoot. Just perfect.
After Malé we take a seaplane, from the terminal next door to the main airport, for a 25 minute hop to the resort. Arriving at the Centara Grand, aboard a twin engined De Havilland Sea Otter, is very special. I just love sea planes. An experience not to be missed. It's a great way to arrive, stylish and fun.
There is no dress code in the resort. For the restaurants, however, swim wear is not allowed. In the evenings for dinner, smart casual is the order of the day. Most guests we saw tended to wear something loose fitting, partly due to the warm temperature and partly for comfort. Cotton seems to work best.
So to summarise you do not need very heavy luggage. Travel light.
Spending much of the day outdoors and in bright sunshine don't forget to bring a high factor suncream. The resort provides free SPF 20, replenished daily as a bathroom amenity. I recommended however using SPF 50 to 70 for your neck and face, especially at the beginning of your holiday.
Bring lots of reading material (there is a library if you forget or run out) and your headphones (if you like to listen and relax to music).
The resort has many daily activities which include excursions by boat to nearby islands for sightseeing and shopping; sunset cruises with dolphin watching and fishing trips.
Over the years it has been interesting to watch the development of the resort. The Centara is no stranger to change. Improvements evolve, without ever loosing the resort's original design concept. It has improved organically - with care. The inclusion of 20 Sunset Ocean Pool Villas has been so successful they are often sold out. They incorporate a small horizonless plunge pool in the Villas and it's a perfect place to soak and relax especially at sunset with the fabulous colours above the turquoise sea.
The colour of the sea a perfect contrast against the red, orange and yellow hues of the setting sun. The low lying landscape provides some of the most brilliant sunsets you will ever see. And the best way to view this is with a cocktail in your hand - perfect!
Dining at the Centara is a delight. The resort is family friendly so there is a wide choice of dining options.
We particularly enjoyed eating at the Island Club. A fine dining restaurant with a great kitchen. It's elegant and special. The menu changes daily for lunch and dinner. The service is faultless.
Being a Thai owned resort, it comes as no surprise that the resort caters for lovers of Thai cuisine. Arguably the fastest growing global culinary 'flavour'. Thai cuisine is a huge phenomenon.
The resort's Suan Bua (lotus pond) is a wonderful Thai restaurant with an exceptional Chef - Khun Ning. We regularly ate here during our two week vacation. Alternating between Azzura Italian Restaurant and Reef, the International Buffet Restaurant with its popular Teppanyaki Counter.
The resort is all-inclusive, which at first, 4 years ago, worried me (would it be cheap and cheerful, with heaps of French fries and burgers? Fast high-fat / high-carb meals?) But I needn't have worried. At the Centara Grand it's a great concept with great food.
You can completely forget about taking your wallet anywhere in the resort. You never need to figure out your spending – it's all included – going to bars and restaurants is trouble free and most importantly, stress free.
The island is packed with water sports. With snorkelling; para gliding; banana boats; mini water slides; a supervised kids club and a scuba club. On top of this, are daily activities including spa treatments; kids fish feeding; shark/stingray feeding and a new recently introduced yoga programme with the extraordinary Dr Raj.
You can learn to scuba dive at the resort, starting with an intro course that is included in the resort package. Also included free are the shopping, fishing and sunset cruises with dolphin watching.
There are regular diving trips, for the more experienced diver, which are chargeable.
For me the top activity is swimming with Whale Sharks. They are called sharks but actually they are the world's largest fish, plankton eaters.
The trip consists of a 45 minute boat ride to the area where the whale sharks might be feeding and once spotted, snorkelling 30 to 45 minutes in the general area. Growing up to 9m long, these majestic creatures gently swim along, giant mouths open, they feed and we watch in awe at their immense power and beauty.
This is probably on my list of top 10 things to do in the world, such a unique and extraordinary experience.
What else to do....? Well for me quite often, nothing.
(How often can you do that?)
You are you in charge of your own time, you're on holiday so relax. Lay back and soak up the good karma, which is so easy to do as there is so little that causes you stress. You adapt to a slower island pace.
The staff are fantastic and always on hand to offer help and advise. They work together as one big happy team. It all flows so well. Service is effortless and seamless.
The resort has a very extensive library, and for parents with kids there are no worries about cuts and scrapes, with a full-time medical professional and clinic, help is on hand.
The Maldives is a special place for me. It has a completely unique environment and I thoroughly relax and I enjoy chilling out in this peaceful and beautiful space.
With a rich culture, gorgeous vistas and spectacular marine life, it's one of my favourite destinations. I quickly adopt a 'life is good' attitude. One of total relaxation and enjoying being away from our usual routines. It draws me back year-after-year. I can truly say that the Maldives is a brilliant holiday destination – one of the best.
With 1,190 islands, land is still the scarcest resource in the country, making up less than 1% of its surface area and one of the lowest lying countries in the world (average height of only 1.5 metres).
My hotel of choice for the last four years has been the Centara Grand. Being a former hotelier I know there's nothing like the personal touch. Staying in the resort as a recognised regular guest, it's extra special. You get a sense of being part of a family. It's something quite unique and this is absolutely synonymous with the Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa.
Getting to the Maldives could not be easier. Travelling from Bangkok with my partner Pichai, we boarded a direct flight to the International Airport in Malé, the capital and most populous city in the Republic of Maldives. With Bangkok Airways it's just 4 hours 15 mins from Suvarnabhumi Airport. Over the years, I have become a member of their frequent FlyerBonus club and take advantage of 10 kg extra baggage as a result, which is handy but not really necessary for this trip.
You don't need that much luggage in the Maldives. Staying at a beach resort, you spend much of the time in shorts and T-shirt and as the title suggests - barefoot. Just perfect.
After Malé we take a seaplane, from the terminal next door to the main airport, for a 25 minute hop to the resort. Arriving at the Centara Grand, aboard a twin engined De Havilland Sea Otter, is very special. I just love sea planes. An experience not to be missed. It's a great way to arrive, stylish and fun.
So to summarise you do not need very heavy luggage. Travel light.
Spending much of the day outdoors and in bright sunshine don't forget to bring a high factor suncream. The resort provides free SPF 20, replenished daily as a bathroom amenity. I recommended however using SPF 50 to 70 for your neck and face, especially at the beginning of your holiday.
Bring lots of reading material (there is a library if you forget or run out) and your headphones (if you like to listen and relax to music).
The resort has many daily activities which include excursions by boat to nearby islands for sightseeing and shopping; sunset cruises with dolphin watching and fishing trips.
Over the years it has been interesting to watch the development of the resort. The Centara is no stranger to change. Improvements evolve, without ever loosing the resort's original design concept. It has improved organically - with care. The inclusion of 20 Sunset Ocean Pool Villas has been so successful they are often sold out. They incorporate a small horizonless plunge pool in the Villas and it's a perfect place to soak and relax especially at sunset with the fabulous colours above the turquoise sea.
The colour of the sea a perfect contrast against the red, orange and yellow hues of the setting sun. The low lying landscape provides some of the most brilliant sunsets you will ever see. And the best way to view this is with a cocktail in your hand - perfect!
Dining at the Centara is a delight. The resort is family friendly so there is a wide choice of dining options.We particularly enjoyed eating at the Island Club. A fine dining restaurant with a great kitchen. It's elegant and special. The menu changes daily for lunch and dinner. The service is faultless.
Being a Thai owned resort, it comes as no surprise that the resort caters for lovers of Thai cuisine. Arguably the fastest growing global culinary 'flavour'. Thai cuisine is a huge phenomenon.
The resort's Suan Bua (lotus pond) is a wonderful Thai restaurant with an exceptional Chef - Khun Ning. We regularly ate here during our two week vacation. Alternating between Azzura Italian Restaurant and Reef, the International Buffet Restaurant with its popular Teppanyaki Counter.
You can completely forget about taking your wallet anywhere in the resort. You never need to figure out your spending – it's all included – going to bars and restaurants is trouble free and most importantly, stress free.
The island is packed with water sports. With snorkelling; para gliding; banana boats; mini water slides; a supervised kids club and a scuba club. On top of this, are daily activities including spa treatments; kids fish feeding; shark/stingray feeding and a new recently introduced yoga programme with the extraordinary Dr Raj.
You can learn to scuba dive at the resort, starting with an intro course that is included in the resort package. Also included free are the shopping, fishing and sunset cruises with dolphin watching.
There are regular diving trips, for the more experienced diver, which are chargeable.
For me the top activity is swimming with Whale Sharks. They are called sharks but actually they are the world's largest fish, plankton eaters.
The trip consists of a 45 minute boat ride to the area where the whale sharks might be feeding and once spotted, snorkelling 30 to 45 minutes in the general area. Growing up to 9m long, these majestic creatures gently swim along, giant mouths open, they feed and we watch in awe at their immense power and beauty.
This is probably on my list of top 10 things to do in the world, such a unique and extraordinary experience.
What else to do....? Well for me quite often, nothing.
(How often can you do that?)
You are you in charge of your own time, you're on holiday so relax. Lay back and soak up the good karma, which is so easy to do as there is so little that causes you stress. You adapt to a slower island pace.
The staff are fantastic and always on hand to offer help and advise. They work together as one big happy team. It all flows so well. Service is effortless and seamless.
The resort has a very extensive library, and for parents with kids there are no worries about cuts and scrapes, with a full-time medical professional and clinic, help is on hand.
Experience the Luxury of Maldive with Stunning Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa
The Maldives is always a popular luxury choice, and Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa is among the most prestigious hotel destinations in the country.
Now, following previous incredible ttgluxury trips where we have taken agents to the likes of the Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Macau and Thailand, the Maldives will be next on the agenda.
Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa is a scenic 70-minute flight from Male to Gan International Airport in Addu Atoll, located just south of the equator. From there, it’s then just a five-minute boat ride to the resort and agents will soon be wowed by the island’s idyllic setting, untouched natural beauty and striking coral reef.
Now, following previous incredible ttgluxury trips where we have taken agents to the likes of the Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Macau and Thailand, the Maldives will be next on the agenda.
Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa is a scenic 70-minute flight from Male to Gan International Airport in Addu Atoll, located just south of the equator. From there, it’s then just a five-minute boat ride to the resort and agents will soon be wowed by the island’s idyllic setting, untouched natural beauty and striking coral reef.
Stay in style
The lush resort is home to more than 17,000 coconut trees, over four miles of picturesque coastline and more than a mile of white sandy beaches. An all-villa resort, it affords an exceptional amount of privacy and space per guest and the 132 villas are in nine distinct styles.
These range from private water villas and tropical tree houses perched on stilts among dense vegetation, to pool villas and beachside residences. And for the ultimate experience, the resort features two Presidential Villas – over-water Villa Muthee and land-based Villa Laalu.
When it comes to dining, there are three main restaurants - poolside Javvu serves international dishes, Dr. Ali’s on the east coast offers Arabic, Indian, Cantonese and Vietnamese cuisine and with stunning views on the north coast of the island, Fashala is the place to go for a delicious seafood meal. Other places to relax on the island with a cool drink and some tasty snacks include the stylish M-Lounge and Manzara Bar, while guests may also choose to have bespoke gastronomic experiences crafted just for them.
Unique activities to try
The resort offers endless activities and excursions and is one of few in the Maldives to be located so close to local islands, which means there are unique cultural, historical and nature tours which are only available in Addu Atoll. The more energetic guest can take a speedboat to Gan Island to explore by bicycle the five neighbouring islands connected by a 17-kilometre road.
Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa is also the largest resort island in the country, so it’s little surprise it is home to the only golf course in the Maldives, with nine holes.
There’s also diving to try, with myriad sites to visit, including the British Loyalty shipwreck, 25 minutes away. Other water-based activities include surfing, dolphin-spotting cruises and snorkelling to see turtles. The resort also has its own 21-metre luxury yacht, Horizon.
Make the most of the island
Back on shore, jungle pathways allow for tropical explorations and a chef’s garden can also be enjoyed, along with jogging trails and even an eco-centre to understand more about this precious environment.
The island is also a playground for families – with a Cool Zone kids area and plenty of fun activities to keep them amused. There’s even a new Tropical Safari whereby young guests must keep an eye out for an alternative “big five” and “little five” to record in their Island Safari Handbook as they play on the island. In the water, there's plenty to do too - Kneeboarding, Seabobs, waterskiing, wake boarding and banana boat rides are just some of the watersports available.
And of course for adults, CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La provides a range of blissful treatments with a sense of place. Guests can also keep up their fitness and wellbeing routines, with yoga, meditation, a gym and badminton and tennis courts available across the island.
In The Maldives there gonna be Over-The-Water Villas
The five-star property is located on a private island in the heart of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Baa Atoll region. Travelers will need to take a 30-minute seaplane flight from the airport to get there.
Over-the-water villas sit atop stilts over a lagoon, while others are nestled among the island’s the tropical greenery and the beach. All 50 villas have private swimming pools, dedicated “island hosts" to assist guests throughout their stay, and open up 180 degrees for a full view of the ocean. Milaidhoo offers its guests a collection of exclusive activities, including snorkeling on coral reefs, diving, water sports, cultural excursions, and access to Hanifaru Bay, a marine protected area, known as one of the best places to go whale spotting in the Maldives, as well as attracting the largest seasonal groupings of manta rays.
The resort also has three restaurants, two bars, and a spa with four over-the-water treatment suites.
Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort appoints Jennifer Obregon as Director of Human Resources
Jennifer Obregon has been appointed as Director of Human Resources for the Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort
Jennifer commenced work earlier this week and reports to Chris Ely, the Acting General Manager of the resort.
Prior to joining Outrigger, Jennifer was with Viceroy Resorts in Turkey and Maldives. She spent three years as Director of Human Resources with Four Seasons, a year with Shangri-La and 18 months with the Taj Exotica Resort and Spa – all in Maldives.
Jennifer has also been a hotel industry training manager and HR consultant in Philippines, Vietnam, Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering in Philippines, Jennifer added a wide range of certifications in HR subjects such as interviewing, appraisals, budget training, performance review management, group training and service leadership. Jennifer is a qualified scuba rescue diver and an aspiring novelist with a work in progress.
“Jennifer’s extensive experience in the operating environment of the Maldives and her HR leadership skills will be vital to Outrigger where the role of or hosts – our staff – is of the utmost importance,” said Darren Edmonstone, Outrigger Managing Director, Asia Pacific.
About Outrigger Konotto Maldives Resort
Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort rests within the crystal waters of Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, located a scenic 30-minute luxury yacht journey from Kaadedhdhoo Airport.
Comprising 21 Beach Pool Villas, 8 Two Bedroom Beach Pool Villas, 21 Ocean Pool Villas, 2 Lagoon Pool Villas and the Grand Konotta Villa, the resort offers a complete sense of privacy and intimate luxury.
Captivate your senses with innovative dining concepts, Navasana spa, and high-end facilities. In between your diving lesson and massage, indulge in sumptuous Maldivian cuisine or a glass of white Burgundy in one of our restaurants or the comfort of your expansive villa. As the sun sets, sample Japanese single malts at our Teppan bar while drinking in endless ocean views.
An Island of Your Own: Four Seasons Private Island Maldives Introducing at Voavah, Baa Atoll
Off limits to everyone; limitless to you
Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, the world's leading luxury hospitality company, today announced
Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, Baa Atoll, the first private island in the company's portfolio and the world's only exclusive-use UNESCO hideaway located in a World Biosphere Reserve.
Opening in late 2016, this secluded five-acre (two-hectare) oasis transcends the private island experience. "Entirely yours" from the moment of booking, the island's seven bedrooms, Beach House, Dive Centre, Oceans of Consciousness Spa and 62-foot (18.9-metre) yacht extend the spoils of the Maldives' only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve to up to 22 guests on an exclusive basis.
Truly capturing the imagination, Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah couples legendary care with limitless living. Alongside the Four Seasons Private Jet and the company's array of Extraordinary Experiences, the island showcases the company's commitment to offering the world's most discerning guests the best of a destination, while surrounded by the personalised service and attention to detail that are the hallmarks of Four Seasons.
"Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah will redefine exclusive luxury, opening as a tropical haven for those who seek an unprecedented experience of private luxury alongside Four Seasons legendary service," said Mike Crawford, President, Asia Pacific. "As the latest addition to our Extraordinary Experiences collection, the island speaks to the company's commitment to perfecting the guest experience and our ability to re-imagine the limits of luxury travel in creative and innovative ways. It's just one of the many ways we're constantly evolving our offerings to deliver the kind of memorable, fully-customised and exclusive experiences our guests want and value."
"At Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, guests can design their own experience," commented Armando Kraenzlin, Regional Vice President and General Manager, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru. "They can treat the island as a space to spend captivating moments with family and friends; a place to play to the extreme and explore to their heart's content; a secluded sanctuary to retreat and spa; the most exclusive VIP venue to celebrate and party; or an inspiring landscape to meet and motivate."
Many experiences – from year-round manta ray sightings to mind-expanding kids' activities – focus on the surrounding UNESCO territory, guided by a team that has already spent a decade protecting it. Indeed, Four Seasons developed Voavah in close coordination with local environmental consultancies to ensure proper maintenance of the balance between man and nature, culture and conservation – in keeping with the prerequisites of the Atoll's UNESCO Biosphere designation.
Voavah days revolve around the double-storey Beach House and adjacent white sands, crystal waters and abundant reef – all exemplary even by Maldivian standards. The Beach House hub offers an open-air living room, dining room, kitchen, pool deck, gym, library and loft lounge, while seven bedrooms span three separate locations: on the beach, over the lagoon or elevated in panoramic Mezzanine Suites.
As are all aspects of Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, dining on the island is tailored to the mood of island guests, meal by meal, from poolside to The Beach House dining room, at the water's edge or on a sandbank. A 62-foot (18.9-metre) private yacht – Voavah Summer – invites exploration of a dazzling and undisturbed UNESCO territory. From diving with whale sharks to snorkelling with year-round manta rays, swimming with neighbourhood turtles, fishing for dinner, visiting local islands, surfing unknown breaks and cruising into breathtaking Baa Atoll sunsets, the possibilities on Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah are endless.
Expanding horizons, The Oceans of Consciousness Spa offers bespoke over-water spa therapies and rituals; yoga, meditation and pranayama classes; high-end beauty treatments; and Rossano Ferretti hair consultant on call.
In the mood for a party? On Voavah, there are no neighbours, no paparazzi and the possibilities are endless. Groups can create one-of-a-kind birthday surprises and celebrations, fly in big name acts or create their own mini music festival or beach party, all perfected with a sprinkling of Voavah magic.
The island is accessible via a 40-minute seaplane transfer from Malé International Airport, or a 20-minute speedboat ride from Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru. Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah will be the fourth addition to the company's Maldives collection, including Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, and Four Seasons Explorer.
The experience of Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah will set the benchmark for private island travel, both due to the transfixing natural beauty of the island and the highly bespoke, privacy-protected service that epitomises Four Seasons. It is the very definition of an Extraordinary Experience. Such offerings invite travellers to see the world differently, with a level of access that is otherwise unavailable. The current collection of Four Seasons Extraordinary Experiences includes a wide range of unforgettable options, including those in:
•Maui – Guests will soar by helicopter above towering waterfalls, rainforested peaks and a dormant volcano before touching down on Hana Ranch for a private tour and foraging expedition through the working ranch and organic farm. Guests will then enjoy a private lunch prepared by Four Seasons Executive Chef Craig Dryhurst and Hana Ranch's Chef Jon Watson featuring ingredients freshly picked from the farm.
•San Diego – Armed with a waterproof camera and wetsuit, guests will capture the beauty of coastal California from sea to sky through an underwater photography expedition with Aaron Chang, considered by many to be the creator of modern surf and ocean photography. Following a morning of diving, guests will join Chang in a helicopter tour above the San Diego coastline to capture the perfect aerial shot of the breaking shore.
•Cairo at Nile Plaza – Guests will relive the 7,000-year history of Egypt and the Pharaonic Empire by enjoying a spectacular sound and light show of the Pyramids at night. Narration and light displays will bring the history and mystery of the Egyptian empire to life, recounting the legends of ancient Pharaohs and the majestic Sphinx. Set against the backdrop of the Great Pyramid, guests will then enjoy a private dinner under the stars while listening to the gorgeous strains of the private Cairo Symphony Orchestra.
•Cap-Ferrat – Guests will enjoy a private tour of Villa Santo Sospir, the legendary French Riviera estate that formerly belonged to socialite Francine Weisweiller and was once the favourite gathering place for celebrities, writers and artists such as Coco Chanel, Marlene Dietrich and Pablo Picasso. After exploring the Villa and taking in its many whimsical mosaics, murals and frescos, guests will enjoy a private dinner, prepared by Michelin-starred Chef Didier Aniès, overlooking the Mediterranean on the estate terrace.
•Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru – Guests will channel their inner Jacques Cousteau during a journey of discovery in the underwater world of manta rays and whale sharks. Led by some of the world's leading experts on manta rays, guests will cruise the turquoise waters of the Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, learning to spot the creatures in the water and helping to record essential environmental information and take identification photos. Taking their oceanic study to new depths, guests will then free-dive into the Indian Ocean to observe the manta rays and whale sharks in their natural habitat.
•Hangzhou - Guests will journey back in time on a traditional Chinese rowboat ride through one of Eastern China's most lush and fabled lakes, taking in majestic mountains, ancient temples, traditional pagodas and graceful bridges while sipping premium Hangzhou tea and sampling local delicacies from Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
