Kandima Maldives has hosted Taylah Cannon, the newly crowned Miss World Australia 2018, and the top four finalists of the pageant on its tropical playground for a series of professional photography and video shoots.

The finalists’ Kandima experience was documented by Australia’s Channel 10 and a well-known TV presenter and reporter, Scott Tweedie. The girls’ interviews will air live on the morning TV show this month.

“The excitement does not end here! Taylah has become the Kandima Maldives’ official ambassador for one year during her reign in 2018 and 2019 – How Kool is that,” the resort said.

Taylah, a makeup artist and a veterinary nurse, will next participate in the International Miss World pageant in China in December. The 23-year old comes from Queensland and will bring the next-year event to Gold Coast in 2019.

Miss World Australia holds an annual pageant to identify young Australian women who exemplify beauty, talent, intelligence and compassion. It aims to create and empower role models who will serve as ambassadors to charity, enrich the perception of beauty, and enhance a new strength, energy and spirit for the advancement of women, while positively impacting their communities.

Miss World Australia is the most holistic and prestigious titles to be crowned. The winner represents Australia at this Miss World International final which includes representatives from over 132 countries around the globe.

Two Australian representatives have won the Miss World title, in 1968 and 1972.

Located on a lush tropical island in Dhaalu Atoll, Kandima offers a choice of 266 stylishly designed studios and villas, with 11 different categories to choose from, all of which have a private terrace and endless tropical views to enjoy.

The four-star plus resort, which opened just over a year ago, has first class infrastructure, boasting the largest pool in
 the Maldives, tennis courts, an art studio, a marine biology school, a kids club, a game room, a library, a gym, a yoga studio and a spa. There is plenty to keep everyone occupied and the array of activities and events on offer is endless, including a huge choice of watersports, diving or snorkelling near the house reef, yoga, Zumba, bicycles, beach volleyball, petanque, arts and crafts lessons, and much more.

The island also offers one of the largest selection of F&B outlets in the country, with an incredible choice of ten restaurants and bars, all featuring unique and individual menus offering flavours of the world from Chinese and Japanese to authentic Maldivian and Mediterranean. So be it tropical or traditional, Kandima has something to suit everyone’s tastes.

Michael Melzer has been appointed as General Manager of the Mӧvenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives, a stunning new sustainably designed island resort which is scheduled to open in November 2018.

A German national, Michael has more than 35 years’ of experience in the hospitality industry, many of which have been spent in the Asia Pacific region. With qualifications from Cornell University and Dale Carnegie Hong Kong, Michael worked most recently as the General Manager of the Sunrise Nha Trang Beach Hotel and Spa in Vietnam.

“We are delighted to welcome Michael Melzer to Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts as we prepare to make our debut in the Maldives. With his expert knowledge of the Asia Pacific region and experience of managing high-end resorts, Michael is the perfect person to lead our first property in this idyllic archipelago,” Gerard Hotelier, VP Operations for Asia at Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, was quoted in a statement, as saying.

“Mӧvenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives is one of our company’s most exciting openings to date. Michael’s deep passion for hospitality, analytical vision and motivational skills will ensure that this beautiful resort maximises its incredible potential and exceeds guests’ expectations.”

Michael started his career as a chef in Germany and later became a food and beverage specialist at several hotels. Subsequent roles included Director of Event Management, Hotel Operations Manager and Director of Operations, prior to becoming a General Manager in 2010. Since then, he has managed properties in Maldives, Philippines and Vietnam.

“I am extremely excited to take on this new challenge,” Michael said.

“Maldives is a breathtaking destination which I have been privileged to experience several times in my career. Joining such a stunning property, managed by one of most famous names in the hospitality industry, made my decision to return to the country an easy one. I look forward to working with the team at Mövenpick as we prepare for the hotel’s official opening next month.”

Nestled on a private island in the northern Noonu atoll, Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives will feature 72 overwater pool villas, 30 beach pool suites and three beach spa pool residences. All the accommodation options including private swimming pools. While the resort is designed as a destination for relaxation and rejuvenation, with a high degree of privacy, it will also feature recreational facilities to suit a wide range of guests, from honeymooners to adventure-seeking families.

Guests have the chance to book their dream holiday at Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives with special opening rates starting from just USD 577 per night inclusive of breakfast and taxes.

Bookings of three nights or more will also include an array of additional benefits, including USD100 resort credit per stay (valid for food and beverage, spa treatments, water sports and diving), plus an additional 20 percent discount at the Diving and Water Sports Centre, and a free room upgrade (subject to availability).

This opening offer is valid for stays between November 1 and December 23, 2018. For more information and reservations, call +960 656 3000 or email: Resort.Kuredhivaru.Reservations@movenpick.com.

Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) on Thursday signed up with the partners and sponsors for the second edition of the Adventures of Maldives (Dhivehi Aahitha) video competition.

At a ceremony held at Public Service Media (PSM) Thursday afternoon, agreements were signed with title sponsor Red Bull as well as co-sponsors, Euro Marketing and Techstreet. PSM’s Maldives TV signed up as the media partner, Maldives Insider as the digital media partner, DhiPrint as the printing partner and Providence as bronze partner.

During the ceremony, MMPRC’s Acting Managing Director Haris Mohamed highlighted the need to have a marketing campaign which incorporates all the information channels favoured by tourists in planning their holiday. The Facebook video competition has all those elements, including videography, storytelling by third parties as well as social media engagement, he added.

“The 2nd Edition of Adventure of Maldives will provide a platform that fascinates and encourages both locals and tourists to share the adventurous side of Maldives. This would also be great opportunity for people to see the first hand experiences of Maldives hence attract more visitors to the destination,” Haris said.

Launched last year, the Adventures of Maldives competition is a co-promotional marketing activity aimed at showcasing personally shot video stories of locals and tourists engaging in adventurous activities in Maldives. The videos are expected to have positive promotional value to the Maldives as a tourism destination.

The theme of the competition covers conventional adventure related activities carried out in the Maldives such as scuba diving, island excursions, festivals, free diving, surfing, snorkelling and water sports. Any unconventional adventure related activities that take place in the Maldives are also considered.

Co-sponsored by Euro Store under the Red Bull brand and Tech Street, this year’s edition of the Adventures of Maldives competition will be open for online submission from October 26 to November 26, with voting on Facebook set to go on from November 28 to December 4. Judging will take place from December 10-12, followed by the dissemination of prizes to the winners during the second week of December.

Winners will receive over MVR 120,000 in prize money, while the top 10 videos will be featured on the official Visit Maldives social and online media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. The videos will also be shown at international travel trade fairs.

The inaugural edition of the competition, which was held between October and November 2017, received 46 submissions, with the most popular video getting over 80k videos on Facebook. An independent panel shortlisted and judged the videos that received the most likes and views before selecting the winner and the top 10 videos. The top finalist was awarded MVR 100,000 as prize money.

Leading electronics dealer Westore has opened the first dedicated Sony showroom in the Maldives.

The exclusive Sony showroom opened its doors to the public in the satellite town of Hulhumale late last month. A special ceremony with traditional Boduberu dances was held at the showroom to celebrate its opening and Westore’s appointment as the authorised distributor for Sony products in the Maldives.

Located opposite Hulhumale Hospital, the showroom carries the latest range of Sony products, including TVs, home theatre systems, PlayStations and cameras. Pre-orders can also be made at the showroom for new Sony products as soon as they are launched.

“Our aim is to make all the latest Sony products available to our customers in the Maldives as soon as they are released to the world market. We’re confident that customers will also find our prices competitive and satisfying,” Hassan Saeed, a Director at Westore, said.

One of the leading manufacturers of electronic products for the consumer and professional markets, Sony’s business interests includes consumer and professional electronics, gaming, entertainment and financial services. The Japanese electronics giant owns the largest music entertainment business in the world, and the fifth-largest television manufacturer in the world.

Sony products, especially its TVs, have long been popular amongst Maldivians.

Kuramathi Maldives has introduced a selection of classical European fish ragout recipes at its Palm restaurant.

The four unique dishes created by the creative food production team at Palm comprise of Belgian, Spanish, Italian and French influences on reef fish caught fresh in the Maldivian waters and served piping hot on a special terracotta plate. The idea is to present the taste of classical European ‘fisherman’ recipes paired with locally caught fresh fish of the Indian Ocean, savoured under the towering coconut trees of Palm.

“With the fast paced world introducing healthy eating trends and robust lifestyles, we are keeping up in a number of ways,” an announcement by the resort read.

Kuramathi is one of the first resorts to open in the Maldives and is part of Universal Resorts of Universal Enterprises, a 100 percent Maldivian company and the pioneers of tourism in the Maldives.

An emerald jewel in the turquoise Maldivian waters, Kuramathi is a stunning island retreat with acres of luxuriant vegetation surrounded by spectacular beaches tapering into an endless sandbank. Villas blend contemporary design and nature, and are set on the beach, amongst lush gardens or over water. Four poster beds, open-air bathrooms, rainfall showers or Jacuzzi, large outdoor decks with inviting daybeds or sun loungers, are just some of the creature-comforts enjoyed by guests.

Dining options are diverse with many restaurants, bars and great-value all-inclusive packages, topped off with Maldivian service – welcoming, genuine and friendly.

Best Dives Maldives has been named the leading water sports centre in South Asia for the second consecutive year.

At the SATA 2018 gala held at The Taj Mahal Palace hotel in Mumbai on September 15, Best Dives won two accolades: the Leading Activity / Water Sports Centre in South Asia and Maldives.

Best Dives, a multi-centre dive and water sports operator based in resorts across six atolls, was founded in 2003. The company has grown to operate dive and water sports centres, excursions and luxury yacht charters at several luxury resorts across the Maldives, including Jumeirah Vittaveli, Centara Grand Island Resort, Centara Ras Fushi Island Resort and Spa, Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort, and Fushifaru Maldives.

Best Dives has also recently inked a deal with Thailand’s premier property development company Singha Estate to provide dive and water sports services at its upcoming CROSSROADS integrated tourism destination in the Maldives.

As part of its CSR programme, Best Dives leads a coral restoration project together with the resorts it operates in. The company is also affiliated with Green Fins, the only recognised environmental set of standards with a comprehensive management approach to providing guidance and support to business owners and national authorities in order to promote best practices.

Launched in 2016 by Maldives based event management company Highrise, SATA has been endorsed by regional tourism authorities and organisations, including the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Sri Lanka (FCCISL), Colombo Chamber of Commerce (CCC), Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO), Confederation of Associated Tour Operators (India), Association of Travel Agents (ATA) Maldives, Association of Travel and Tour Operators India (ATTOI), Association of Professionals in Tourism (APT, India), Kerala Hotel General Managers Club (KHGMC), Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Liveaboard Association of Maldives (LAM).

SATA is the first ever regional travel awards endorsed by multi national associations, providing the tourism sector of the South Asian region with recognition towards their facilities and service excellence. It aims to encourage and raise service standards in the region’s tourism industry.

A record 500 plus nominations from the Maldives, India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Nepal were received for the 36 categories in 10 segments included in this year’s edition of SATA.

This year’s evaluation process was carried out in the most vibrant cities in each country: Maldives capital Male, Sri Lankan capital Colombo, south Indian city of Bangalore, Indian capital New Delhi, Nepalese capital Kathmandu, and the Bhutanese town of Paro. The evaluation was carried out by an all-women jury, which comprised Amal Goonetilleke from Sri Lanka, Rinku Madan from India and Hinna Khalid from Maldives.

On October 3, 1972, Kurumba Maldives opened its doors to the first tourists who visited the Maldives. This marked the beginning of a romance where the whole world fell in love with the beautiful sun, sea and sand of the Maldives. Since then, Maldives has become one of the most sought after dream destinations in the world, attracting over 1.3 million tourists annually.

Last week, Kurumba Maldives celebrated the 46th anniversary of this wonderful beginning.

The celebrations began with a BBQ cooking competition between guests and management team at Kandu Bar. Later in the afternoon, a mini-Olympics took place, where the participants found their very own Micheal Phelps (tanned and brown version) at the Water Sports Centre with snorkel equipment relay, ping-pong games and bathrobe challenges. After the fun and games, everyone joined the Management Cocktail at Athiri for drinks and to relax by the beach against the sounds of breaking waves and a setting sun.

The day finally concluded with lively cultural dances at the Conference Hall after dinner. It paid off not to stuff too much at dinner because every ounce of energy was needed to swing those hips to the rhythm and beats of music from around the world.

Kurumba, the very first resort in the Maldives, is set on a tropical island in the North Male Atoll, conveniently located a brief 10-minute speedboat ride away from the main airport.

Kurumba draws on its proud 46 years of history, charismatic personality and heartfelt service, to offer compelling and diverse experiences amidst a stunning island setting.

The resort offers an array of eight styles of accommodation, ranging from comfortable Superior rooms to the spacious Royal Residence, spread among the island’s lush tropical gardens with easy access to the beach. With eight different restaurants and four bars to choose from.

Kurumba will charm you with its unparalleled choice of dining experiences and a wide range of recreation activities and entertainment; all the while maintaining idyllic spaces of relaxation to create the perfect balance for a holiday in paradise, perfect for honeymooners and family alike.

LUX* North Male Atoll has announced plans to host a recruitment open day next week, as the brand new era-shaping resort prepares to welcome its first guests in 2019.

Set to take place from 9am to 5pm on October 13 and 14 at the Maagiri Hotel in capital Male, the recruitment open day will seek interested and qualified candidates to fill vacancies in a wide range of sectors, including food and beverage, culinary, housekeeping, front office, finance, human resources, sales and marketing, reservations, engineering and security.

“LUX* North Male Atoll will deliver an amazing product and offer world-class service. We are looking for team members to fill in various positions; team members with a great dedication for world-class service and mindset,” Cherry Santos Cruz, the Regional Director of Human Resources at LUX* South Ari Atoll and LUX* North Male Atoll, said.

LUX* North Male Atoll, the second resort in the Maldives by Mauritius based hotel group LUX* Resorts, will officially open on February 1, 2019.

Accessible by luxury speedboat or a short 15 minute seaplane transfer from Velana International Airport, this intimate resort is ripe with eye-catching architecture and ocean-inspired interiors. Each of the 67 double storey residences features a private pool, and for the first time in the Maldives, each residence is crowned with a magnificent private rooftop terrace. Whether set on the beach or stilted over the crystal blue lagoon, every penthouse villa takes indoor-outdoor living to a new level of breezy sophistication, with the largest three bedroom penthouse retreat covering 970sqm in total.

Opportunities for dining range from the openly elegant to the intimately luxurious. GLOW Restaurant and Bar is a meeting point of creative world cuisine. INTI guides you on a delicious journey through Peru and Japan and the height of truly bespoke taste is hidden in the opulent chamber of Barium, while Beach Rouge provides a feet-in-the-sand, sea breezy scenario to take you from day to night. Add the famous Café LUX* and signature homemade ICI ice cream parlour, and the flavours of island life just got fresher.

Guests are invited to indulge further on the island, with two swimming pools, a translucent overwater LUX* Me Spa, a world-class PADI diving centre, high adrenaline water sports with the option for cave diving, ship wreck diving and the ultimate luxury experience with private yacht voyages.

LUX* North Male Atoll is truly an exclusive paradise retreat, and LUX* wouldn’t be LUX* without a few surprises. Expect classic screenings at cinema paradiso, local art classes, expert led workshops and the chance to hang your hopes on a magical tree of wishes.

Soneva has hosted its second Soneva Surf Pro 2018 competition.

The follow-up event to the first competition was held on October 6 at the Bodu Olhu break, off Lhohi island in the northern Noonu atoll. This was Noonu atoll’s first ever surfing competition, with over 30 participants from different islands taking part in the Under 18, Over 18 and Bodyboard divisions.

Included in the judging panel were Maldivian pro surfers Kuda Issey and Azlee Naseem. The prizes for the competition, ranging from eco-friendly surfboards, leashes, fins, rash guards, wax and sunscreen, were provided by Soneva Surf’s eco partners.

The location of the second competition is fitting, as the Noonu atoll has historical relevance to the Maldives’ surfing scene, being the birthplace of modern surfing in the country. The island of Kudafari was also the first island in the Maldives to have surfboards.

The first Soneva Surf Pro 2018 competition took place on September 1 in the Baa atoll.

Surfing competitions are opportunities to bring together communities, make surfing more accessible and to drive sustainable surfing practices. Soneva hopes the surfing competitions will generate positive and healthy competition within local surfing communities to raise the surfing standards even further across the country.

Soneva Surf is part of the Soneva Ocean Stewards programme, which believes that people will protect what they love. If local Maldivians spend more time in the ocean, they will ultimately become the protectors of the ocean that is the lifeblood of their homeland.

Soneva’s surfing programme aims to tap into the growing interest in the Maldives as a surfing destination. Soneva Surf is offered at both of Soneva’s Maldives properties, Soneva Fushi in the Baa atoll and Soneva Jani in the Noonu atoll. Soneva in Aqua also offers a surfing charter within both atolls.

So far, Soneva has discovered 13 and 11 surfing spots in the Baa atoll and Noonu atoll, respectively; and hopes to uncover many more. Each of these locations are relatively unknown, meaning they are less travelled, uncrowded and secret. Surfing in the Baa atoll and Noonu atoll is more suited to intermediate to advanced surfers, but beginners will also find surfing spots that cater to their needs.

Soneva’s secret surfing spots will only be revealed to resort guests who choose the surfing package in order to keep them uncrowded and pristine for future guests.

Soneva runs two resorts in the Maldives, Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani.

Established in 1995, Soneva Fushi is the original Soneva. The No News, No Shoes blueprint for all desert island barefoot luxury hideaways is located within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives. Soneva Fushi inspires the imagination with 65 spacious beachfront villas, ranging in size from one to nine bedrooms, hidden amongst dense foliage.

The iconic resort has bagged several international awards for eco-friendly tourism and green initiatives, including the 2017 Green Hotelier Award for the Asia Pacific region and the Sustainable Hotel Award by the Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific (HICAP) as well as a spot in the Gold List compiled by Condé Nast Traveler China as the Best Hotel in the Maldives and amongst the best resorts in the world in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2017.

Opened in December 2016, Soneva Jani is Soneva’s newest property and its second resort in the Maldives.

Soneva Jani encompasses a collection of 24 overwater villas and one island villa set in a 5.6 kilometre private lagoon located in the northern Noonu atoll. The resort spans five islands surrounded by pure white beaches, covered in rich tropical vegetation, offering the ultimate in privacy and luxury.

Each of the resort’s multilevel water villas has its own private pool and a retractable roof that allows guests to sleep beneath the stars. Many villas also have slides that transport guests directly from the top level into the lagoon below. Other hotel highlights include a spa, an observatory — home to the largest telescope in the Indian Ocean — and an outdoor cinema.

Since its opening, Soneva Jani has created a lot of buzz amongst luxury travellers with its exciting features such as the retractable roofs and the water slides. It has been named the Best Over-the-Top Luxury hotel of the year by Jetsetter.com, the best new resort in the world by CNN, and the Leading Luxury Hotel/Resort in South Asia and Leading Luxury Hotel/Resort in Maldives.

Ace Aviation Services Maldives has been named the Leading GSA Service Provider in South Asia.

The award was presented to the company at the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2018 gala held at The Taj Mahal Palace hotel in Mumbai on September 15.

“We continue to innovate at every touch point of the customer service experience to provide the best to meet their growing demands. Indeed, this recognition is an inspiration for us to move forward achieving newer heights,” Roshan Madurawala, Country Manager of Ace Aviation Services Maldives, was quoted in a statement, as saying.

This is the second consecutive year Ace Aviation Services Maldives demonstrated its commitment to excellence by receiving the notable recognition.

“It was an immense privilege to be the recipient of this award, especially on the soil of Gan Island last year, and we are thrilled to defend the same award this year in Mumbai,” Mohamed Firaq, Managing Director of Ace Aviation Services Maldives, said.

Ace Aviation Services Maldives is the General Sales Agent (GSA) in the Maldives for SriLankan Airlines.

Launched in 2016 by Maldives based event management company Highrise, SATA has been endorsed by regional tourism authorities and organisations, including the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Sri Lanka (FCCISL), Colombo Chamber of Commerce (CCC), Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO), Confederation of Associated Tour Operators (India), Association of Travel Agents (ATA) Maldives, Association of Travel and Tour Operators India (ATTOI), Association of Professionals in Tourism (APT, India), Kerala Hotel General Managers Club (KHGMC), Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Liveaboard Association of Maldives (LAM).

SATA is the first ever regional travel awards endorsed by multi national associations, providing the tourism sector of the South Asian region with recognition towards their facilities and service excellence. It aims to encourage and raise service standards in the region’s tourism industry.

A record 500 plus nominations from the Maldives, India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Nepal were received for the 36 categories in 10 segments included in this year’s edition of SATA.

This year’s evaluation process was carried out in the most vibrant cities in each country: Maldives capital Male, Sri Lankan capital Colombo, south Indian city of Bangalore, Indian capital New Delhi, Nepalese capital Kathmandu, and the Bhutanese town of Paro. The evaluation was carried out by an all-women jury, which comprised Amal Goonetilleke from Sri Lanka, Rinku Madan from India and Hinna Khalid from Maldives.

Coco Bodu Hithi is set to host a delightful six-course dinner to its guests this October with MasterChef Judge Monica Galetti.

Born in Samoa and brought up in New Zealand, Chef Monica moved to Britain in 1999 to work alongside Michel Roux Jr. at Le Gavroche in London. She became a household name in 2009 when she joined the BBC1 team as a judge on MasterChef: The Professionals and has gone on to co-present BBC2’s Amazing Hotels – Life Beyond the Lobby. In 2017, she and her husband opened their first restaurant, Mere, in London. Monica is the author of two bestselling books: Monica’s Kitchen and The Skills.

Monica has created a six-course menu, with wine pairing recommendations, which will give guests the chance to experience first-hand her passion for working with only the finest and freshest ingredients to create showstopping contemporary dishes. The exclusive menu takes inspiration from Monica’s South Pacific heritage and celebrates the wonderful local seafood and produce available in the Maldives.

Monica’s dinners will be served at Aqua Restaurant on the evenings of October 23 and 25.

Coco Bodu Hithi, the flagship property in Coco Collection’s portfolio, is a chic retreat where you reconnect with yourself, your loved ones and the wonder of the natural world. Translating island life into contemporary sophistication, the resort, which is accessible by a 40-minute speedboat ride from the main Velana International Airport, offers 100 villas that are surrounded by the calm view of the lagoon and the soothing sound of the waves.

With seven restaurants and bars, Coco Bodu Hithi celebrates and offers a variety of exquisite cuisines, taking inspiration from the Maldives and further afield.

An award-winning wellness zone on stilts over the clear water, Coco Spa is a sanctuary for the soul. Mindful of the healing properties of nature and the ocean, the spa is designed to retreat for an escape, whether a massage in one of the eight treatment rooms or yoga on the pavilion overlooking the ocean and beach. With a range of products from the Paris label Thémaé combining the healing properties of tea, therapists at Coco Spa are trained in techniques to treat the mind, body and soul. An overwater gym within the zone inspires guests to keep up with their regime of active well ness when away on a holiday.

Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) has opened candidacy for its new executive board.

MATATO is accepting applications till October 31, with candidates to be announced 15 days prior to the annual general meeting, which is set to be held in November.

Launched in 2006, MATATO is one of the leading organisations in the travel industry of Maldives, representing local travel agents and tour operators as general members.

The non-profit is governed by an executive board of nine members, elected once in every two years from amongst the member representatives. Only general members can nominate and vote in the executive board election. A period of 30 days is given for registration of nominations and representatives.

The current board is headed by Abdulla Giyas Riyaz from Inner Maldives Holidays, with Abdulla Suood from Tropical Collections and Ibrahim Shiham from Yacht Tours Maldives serving as vice president, and Ali Ahmed from Vista Travel and Services as the treasure. Board members include Aminath Nina Nizar from Sun Travels & Tours, Ahmed Fiyaz from Pearl Travel Service, Mohamed Khaleel from Reollo Travel, Mohamed Jinan from Voyages Maldives and Khathim Hassan from Island Pearl Holidays.

Kuredu Resort Maldives has announced a special offer for stays this November and December.

In an announcement, the resort said a 25 percent discount will be offered for bookings made from now to October 31 for stays between November 1 and December 23 in a Garden Bungalow, Beach Villa, Jacuzzi Beach Villa, Sangu Water Villa or Private Pool Villa. There is no minimum stay requirement, and bookings can be made on Full Board, All-Inclusive Plus and All-Inclusive Gold meal plans.

“Raise your hand if you are flirting with the idea of spending a holiday in the Maldives, but you just don’t know how to make it work. The good news: Kuredu, one of the Maldives’ most well-known resorts – and a favourite to honeymooners, families and sports enthusiasts alike – is offering a hot deal for stays this coming November and December,” the announcement read.

“Enjoy summer temperatures, excellent ocean conditions and Kuredu’s 30th anniversary celebrations during the Maldives’ high season for 25% less when you book before 31st October 2018.”

Kuredu’s anniversary week runs from December 10 to 17.

Located on a 1,800 metre by 325 metre remote island in the northern atoll of Lhaviyani, Kuredu is accessible by a 35-minute scenic seaplane flight from the main Velana International Airport. This 4.5-star resort has 383 rooms, including beach and water villas, making it the second largest resort in the Maldives.

The island boasts a dive and snorkel centre, a water sports centre, a spa, golf and tennis courses, a kids’ club, and an extensive choice of restaurants and bars. Kuredu guests can also dine in 5.8 Undersea Restaurant at the neighbouring Hurawalhi Maldives resort.

This festive season, treat yourself and your loved ones to an unforgettable holiday in paradise. Kanuhura’s tropical oasis offers a world of unbridled luxury for discerning gypsetters in the heart of the Maldives, further enhanced by novel festive season experiences and offerings which have been carefully created to spoil the guests — this festive season is bound to be your best yet.

Embrace the smooth sounds of a live band and resident DJ as you sip on your favourite tipple at dusk, indulge in a glass of champagne and fine canapés during a luxury sunset cruise or treat yourself to the Champagne and Caviar Breakfast. This special time of year deserves to be celebrated in style.

In the unfettered paradise, the team at Kanuhura will do whatever they can to ensure that your festive season is everything you could dream of, and more. Allow them to spoil you and your significant other with a romantic dinner set up somewhere special on the island, paired with one of the novel ‘destination dining’ menus, enjoy the thrill of a sunset fishing excursion followed by the preparation of your catch for you or spend a day on the private neighbouring island Jehunuhura, made all the more extraordinary by a festive season beachside BBQ picnic, drinks and games.

Little gypsetters are as important as their parents, which is why Kanuhura has a comprehensive and fun-filled holiday programme for them to have the holiday of a lifetime in the sun while their parents enjoy a little rest and relaxation. From kid-friendly cooking classes, exciting water sports, arts and crafts sessions and festive season-related activities and games to time to write letters to Santa and his surprising arrival on Christmas Day, your kids are sure to have an incredible holiday.

The Christmas and New Year’s Eve programmes curated by Kanuhura are absolutely extraordinary, with something to delight all the guests, young and old. From an array of gastronomic offerings to suit the palates of the diverse gypsetters that include everything from seafood specialities to traditional festive season favourites and end of year cocktails to a spectacular New Year’s Eve ‘White Evening’ beach party, Kanuhura promises you a festive season unlike any other you have experienced before.

Located at the heart of Lhaviyani atoll, one of the most spectacular Maldives atolls, Kanuhura is considered one of the most iconic barefoot beach resorts in the Indian Ocean. Part of the Mauritius-based hotel and leisure group Sun Resorts, Kanuhura hosted its first guest in 1999.

A USD42 million reimagining of the resort in 2016 has positioned it for the latest trend travellers have identified as Gypset; part gypsy in their drive for freedom and jetset, reflected in their wealth and craving for luxury living. The gypset muse of Kanuhura is Erin Wasson, famous top model and face representant of Maybelline.

The new rooms are luxury villas and suites with unusual elegance and furnished with natural materials with a touch of refinement and modernism. Whether you stay on the sunrise or sunset side of the island, you will be overwhelmed by the breathtaking view of the sea. The water villas have a private terrace with private access to the lagoon.

With its eight restaurants and three bars, Kanuhura will make you discover various cuisines from all over the world such as Italy, Brazil and the Maldives. The chef also provides interactive cookery demonstrations. Those looking for tranquility and well-being will be able to visit Kokaa, the wellness and spa centre for a unique sensual experience uplifting body and mind.

Interested in visiting Kanuhura over this special time? Then get in touch with the resort to book your holiday in the sensational island paradise. 

Faarufushi Maldives has announced plans to host a recruitment open day next week, as the brand new resort prepares to welcome its first guests later this year.

Set to take place from 9am to 5pm on October 12 at the Maagiri Hotel in capital Male, the recruitment open day will seek interested and qualified candidates to fill vacancies in these sectors: food and beverage, kitchen, housekeeping, front office, spa, finance, engineering and transport.

“Be part of the opening team at the newest five-star luxury resort to create a sophisticated but pure experience; understated perfection,” an announcement read.

Interested candidates are requested to bring their CV and a recent photograph. Those who cannot attend the open day can email their CV to careers@faarufushi.com.

Offering a combination of all the things travellers want from a luxury Maldivian resort, the brand new resort by leading local resort operator Universal Resorts is set on the private island of Faarufushi in a remote part in the northern Raa atoll, and is just a scenic 50-minute journey by seaplane or a flight via Ifuru Domestic Airport from the main Velana International Airport.

Faarufushi will welcome guests from December 15, 2018 with 80 spacious villas that offer a striking realisation of contemporary design amidst a naturally stunning seascape.

Ten Beach Bungalows and 27 Beach Retreats with Pool are cocooned around the island in addition to 39 sleek Ocean Retreats with Pool stilted over the azure lagoon of Faarufushi. The three Ocean Suite with Pool and the Island Residence with Pool offer the ultimate sanctuary with an expansive infinity pool overlooking at its very own stretch of the Indian Ocean.

Indulgent dining choices will be offered in a modern and most unpretentious environment with a full view of the horizon whilst focusing on the highest quality of ingredients in three restaurants and two bars.

Iru is the all-day dining restaurant located next to Sangu Bar, overlooking the infinity pool of the resort, presenting unlimited views of the sea. The crescent shaped overwater signature restaurant, Eclipse offers an immersive gourmet experience and a non-obstructed panoramic view. At the reef’s edge is Boli, with seating open to the sky, offering a guaranteed sunset view throughout the year, complemented with the finest wines, carefully crafted cocktails and music. Athiri is a casual beachside gathering bringing several island facilities together, including water sports and gym overlooking the beach and ocean. Athiri’s centre piece is the collection of dining options serving tapas, teppanyaki and more, under one roof.

Nika Spa blends in with the blissful vegetation of the island with six treatment rooms, each representing a tree canopy and a garden compound with a hydro pool surrounded by outdoor salas and relaxation pavilions.

Faarufushi is an island owned and developed by Faarufushi Investment Pvt Ltd and managed by Universal Resorts Management Pvt Ltd.

Universal Resorts operates the largest resort collection in the country, including iconic properties such as Kurumba Maldives, Velassaru Maldives, Kuramathi Maldives, Baros Maldives, Kandolhu Maldives, Dhigali Maldives, Maafushivaru, and Milaidhoo Island Maldives.

Kandima Maldives has announced the programme for this year’s festive celebrations.

This holiday season, an oh-so yummy blend of delicious cuisine, stylish cocktails and playful entertainment is on offer at Kandima. The festive programme, which includes delicious dining choices, fun-packed activities for kids, relaxing spa treatments, plenty of sparkling bubbles and fireworks, is all part of the celebrations in the island (desti)nation.

This year’s festive programme includes:

• Music from The Tigers and the UK’s Eurovision 2017 singer Holly Brewer.
• Christmas tree lighting on December 22, followed by a cocktail party and barefoot BBQ on the beach. After dinner live music from Maldivian band The Shiuz.
• A Christmas Eve TropiKal Cocktail Party on the beach with canapés, oysters and chill out tunes by the resident DJ.
• A four-course set menu at Smoked restaurant featuring prime meat cuts and freshly caught seafood. Plus a traditional Christmas Dinner at the resort’s all-day restaurants, Flavour and Zest.
• Santa arrival on Christmas Day to hand out festive snacks to the little VIPs.
• A KULA art festival on December 28, where 20 local artists encourage guests to find their inner Picasso. There will also be a KULA colour fun run.
• Fiesta Del Sol party on December 31 kicks off with cocktails and live entertainment on the beach. Both Zest and Flavour restaurants offer scrumptious all-you-can-eat buffet for dinner followed after party on the beach with The Tigers and Holly Brewer. What better way to end the year! The evening ends with an awesome firework display over the tropical lagoon.
• January 1, a lavish Hangover Breakfast awaits all the guests at Zest and Flavour restaurants, which will be followed by an awesome brunch taking place until 2.30pm.
• An Orthodox Christmas Eve Barefoot BBQ on the beach on January 6.

Located on a lush tropical island in Dhaalu Atoll, Kandima offers a choice of 266 stylishly designed studios and villas, with 11 different categories to choose from, all of which have a private terrace and endless tropical views to enjoy.

The four-star plus resort, which opened just over a year ago, has first class infrastructure, boasting the largest pool in
 the Maldives, tennis courts, an art studio, a marine biology school, a kids club, a game room, a library, a gym, a yoga studio and a spa. There is plenty to keep everyone occupied and the array of activities and events on offer is endless, including a huge choice of watersports, diving or snorkelling near the house reef, yoga, Zumba, bicycles, beach volleyball, petanque, arts and crafts lessons, and much more.

The island also offers one of the largest selection of F&B outlets in the country, with an incredible choice of ten restaurants and bars, all featuring unique and individual menus offering flavours of the world from Chinese and Japanese to authentic Maldivian and Mediterranean. So be it tropical or traditional, Kandima has something to suit everyone’s tastes.

For bookings, please contact Kandima’s Rez Krew by email mykindofplace@kandima.com or phone +960 676 0077.

Maldives has won the Seven Stars Destination Award at the 2018 Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards (SSLHLA).

Maldives competed with other world-class destinations such as Dubai, Seychelles, Mauritius and Singapore to win the Signum Virtutis, the Seal of Excellence, in the Seven Stars Destination category. Dr Hala Hameed, the Maldives ambassador to Switzerland, received the award at a gala held on October 6 at the Capsis Out of the Blue Elite Resort in Crete, Greece.

This is the third time that the Maldives had secured this award, after having won the same category at SSLHLA in 2013 and 2014.

“For a world-class destination, winning at the Seven Star Luxury Awards will enhance the image of the destination as a high profile luxury destination,” Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), the official tourism promotion agency of Maldives, said, in a statement.

The 2018 Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards, held in Crete at the amazing Out of the Blue Capsis Elite Resort, showcased the pinnacle in luxury hospitality and lifestyle to the world.

Winners hailing from Nigeria, Bali, Fiji, Cyprus, Greece, Mauritius, Maldives, Turkey, Russia, Zanzibar, South Africa, Switzerland, Italy, Germany, and Austria were present at the highly exclusive gala ceremony held at the stunning Cretan Resort.

HSH Prince Massimiliano della Torre e Tasso, Baroness Nerina Keeley, Greek Star Nina Lotsari, Carmen Edelson, Thanos Liontos, Amani Vernescu, star Photographer Oliver Jiszda, Miriam Seferian and Andrea Luri were amongst the Luxury Panel Members of the SSLHLA in attendance in order to present winners with the SIGNUM VIRTUTIS , the seal of excellence.

Entertainment for the evening was provided by talented Greek Mainstream Star Naya who mesmerized the crowd with her Voice, high energy and stunning looks.

The event was hosted by Turkish Celebrity presenter Ece Vahapoglu who brought glitz and glamour to the stage with her impeccable style and beauty.

“The event was a great success with winners from over 15 different countries. We are delighted to have been the first luxury hospitality award to host an event in Crete and I am sure it will not be the last time. This great Island offers fantastic hospitality, a great climate, and warm people,” Khalil El-Mouelhy, Chairman President/Founder of SSLHLA, was quoted in a statement, as saying.

“I would like to thank all our winners for traveling great distances to be with us and we are both happy and thankful to have been able to celebrate their success with them. I would also like to thank the team of the Out of the Blue Capsis Elite Resort for their support and for helping to make this evening of celebrations a great success.”

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

Gili Lankanfushi has welcomed a new Marine Biologist and Environmental Officer, Sarah Davies.

With a degree in Marine Biology and Oceanography from the University of Plymouth, followed by a masters in Biodiversity and Conservation from the University of Exeter, Sarah is a well-versed expert in the conservation of marine life.

Her undergraduate training included the study of animal behaviour, marine mammal physiology, ecology, physical and chemical oceanography and marine and coastal environment assessment and management. Following this, her postgraduate study involved scientific surveying, sampling, coral reef management, climate change and habitat management strategies.

Having worked in Mexico for Global Vision International as a Marine Science Officer and Divemaster between May 2010 and August 2012, Sarah’s experience led her to train volunteers in marine survey work and analyse the data collected. She also gained proficient knowledge of Caribbean fish, coral, invertebrate and algae species identification. Besides this, Sarah was involved in environmental outreach and awareness with local communities, fishermen and hotels as well as running the turtle monitoring programme during nesting season.

Her next placement was as a marine biologist with Seamarc at Four Seasons Resorts Maldives, where she was involved in delivering science presentations to guests, guiding daily snorkelling trips, sea turtle rehabilitation and assisting the coral restoration project.

Most recently, she has been working as a marine biologist and dive guide with Azalea cruise in the Maldives, where she has delivered presentations on the marine life of the Maldives, guided daily dives and assisted the cruise director with daily schedules and logistics.

“Bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and experience, we look forward to have Sarah take us to greater heights in our sustainability efforts and to continue preserving our natural habitat at the resort,” an announcement read.

Set on the private island of Lankanfushi in the North Male Atoll, Gili Lankanfushi Maldives is an intimate coral island in a sparkling lagoon, with jetties threading across the water out to spacious villa accommodations, where ultimate privacy can be found. This luxury resort is just a 20-minute speedboat ride from the main Velana International Airport.

At Gili Lankanfushi, an idyllic personal hideaway is one of 45 spacious, rustic overwater villas crafted from natural wood and glass. A palette of sparkling blues paints the horizon, the ocean stretching to infinity wherever on the island. The open design, with indoor and outdoor living space, allows guests the freedom to be themselves, the sound of the sea and warm breeze soothing all senses.

Velassaru Maldives has launched a series of environment-friendly initiatives.

Amongst the initiatives is a comprehensive recycling facility, which includes a shredding machine for plastic bottles and a glass grinder for all non-returnable glass. A new botanical waste chipper and mulcher produces material that can either be converted into compost or used as mulch for the resort’s gardens. Kitchen bio-waste is also processed in a bio-composting machine to supplement the on-island compost initiative, which makes its way onto the gardens.

Velassaru has also started reusing grey water, which makes up the largest portion of wastewater on the resort. All grey water on the island is now processed through a pro-biotic aeration plant and reutilised to irrigate the gardens.

As part of Velassaru’s green initiative, a purpose built water filtration and bottling facility is to be commissioned on the island soon in order to produce premium quality still and sparking water in reusable glass bottles. This initiative will replace plastic water bottles used by guests and staff members, removing a minimum of 200,000 plastic bottles per year and a million every five years.

Additionally, Velassaru has stopped using plastic drinking straws.

Owned and operated by leading local hotel group Universal Resorts, Velassaru is located in South Male Atoll and accessible by a short 25-minute speedboat ride from the main Velana International Airport.

Velassaru offers luxurious beachfront and overwater accommodation with uninterrupted ocean views. Featuring wooden ceilings and floors for a tropical atmosphere, the contemporary-styled villas and bungalows offer chic serenity.

A wide variety of international specialities are offered at Velassaru’s five restaurants, including fresh contemporary seafood, Japanese, international and grill pan Indian options. The two beach bars serve cocktails and wines.

Guests can enjoy relaxing spa treatments in overwater pavilions, or hop on a Maldivian boat and watch the crew demonstrate traditional fishing methods. Other resort facilities include a fitness centre, tennis court and infinity pool with the view of the beach and the ocean.

Amilla Fushi has won the award for the Leading Wellness and Spa Resort in South Asia.

At the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2018 gala held at The Taj Mahal Palace hotel in Mumbai on September 15, Amilla Fushi was presented with two accolades: Leading Wellness and Spa Hotel / Resort in South Asia and the Maldives.

The Javvu Spa at Amilla Fushi is a beautiful, home from home hang out with two sides to its nature – a private side and a social side. You can retreat into the protective canopy of the trees or chill out in the large, communal lounge for your treatments.

The spa has an ‘open door’ policy and you are welcome to simply stop by and flop, read a magazine on one of the comfy chairs or sofas, shop, nibble and have a drink (champagne and herbal tea) served from the drinks trolley  — whether you are booked in for a treatment or not, and the only thing that whispers here are the leaves in the trees.

The Javvu Spa is made up of 10 wooden double treatment pods with either a sauna or a steam room, a relaxing tea lounge, a wet area which also includes a no-bookings required sauna and steam room. There is also a wonderful spacious outdoor yoga and meditation pavilion.

The socialising Amilla spa-style area has a specialist barber, hair salon, exclusive manicure and pedicure areas, a beauty bar and relaxation area overlooking the sparkling Indian Ocean.

Located just 30 minutes by seaplane from the main Velana International Airport, Amilla offers a choice of 59 Houses that sit gracefully over crystal clear waters, nestled amongst lush tree tops or huggin the shores of pristine white sand. Additionally, eight spectacular four to eight-bedroom Beach Residences ideally suited to large families, groups of friends and VVIPs seeking the ultimate in space and privacy are also available.

Amilla’s innovative restaurants range from the diverse, informal foodie hub Baazaar to the relaxed yet sophisticated overwater dining at the signature Feeling Koi. Guests can even drop in to gourmet café and deli The Emperor General Store or The Wine Shop and Cellar Door to treat themselves to lighter snacks, a favourite bottle or a gourmet selection of artisanal cheeses.

With an unrivalled range of purpose-designed multi-bedroom accommodation options, and an exciting, inspiring and active Kids’ Club, Amilla is putting the Maldives on the map as a destination not just for couples, but for families and friends.

Launched in 2016 by Maldives based event management company Highrise, SATA has been endorsed by regional tourism authorities and organisations, including the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Sri Lanka (FCCISL), Colombo Chamber of Commerce (CCC), Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO), Confederation of Associated Tour Operators (India), Association of Travel Agents (ATA) Maldives, Association of Travel and Tour Operators India (ATTOI), Association of Professionals in Tourism (APT, India), Kerala Hotel General Managers Club (KHGMC), Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Liveaboard Association of Maldives (LAM).

SATA is the first ever regional travel awards endorsed by multi national associations, providing the tourism sector of the South Asian region with recognition towards their facilities and service excellence. It aims to encourage and raise service standards in the region’s tourism industry.

A record 500 plus nominations from the Maldives, India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Nepal were received for the 36 categories in 10 segments included in this year’s edition of SATA.

This year’s evaluation process was carried out in the most vibrant cities in each country: Maldives capital Male, Sri Lankan capital Colombo, south Indian city of Bangalore, Indian capital New Delhi, Nepalese capital Kathmandu, and the Bhutanese town of Paro. The evaluation was carried out by an all-women jury, which comprised Amal Goonetilleke from Sri Lanka, Rinku Madan from India and Hinna Khalid from Maldives.