Maldives on Friday signed an agreement with Limkokwing University to facilitate training opportunities for locals joining the island nation’s multi-billion-dollar tourism and hospitality industry.
At a ceremony held at Limkokwing University’s campus in London, Maldives’ tourism minister Ali Waheed and the Malaysia-based university’s Vice President Dato’ Tiffanee Marie Lim signed the agreement.
Minister Waheed said the agreement will allow Maldivians to get fully- and semi-funded scholarships from the university.
“President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih aims to develop local talent, so that they can reach top managerial positions in the industry. There are several locals who can reach that level with further training. Under this agreement, they will be given the opportunity to obtain the necessary training,” he said.
In his first presidential address to the parliament early this year, President Solih said at least 35,000 jobs related to tourism would be created during his five-year term. A significant portion of these jobs would be reserved for Maldivians who would be trained to ably work in this industry, he added.
The president’s comments followed an initiative by the tourism ministry that to compile a registry of locals employed in the tourism industry.
For assessment purposes, the country is currently undertaking a nationwide effort to register and enter into statistical compilations all those employed in the tourism industry. This will allow the government to evaluate the broad trends pertinent to employment in the tourism industry and calculate options to improve their situation and extrapolate ways to further improve the tourism sphere.
The Maldives’ tourism industry has greatly expanded over the past 40 years, becoming the country’s main economic activity and the biggest employer.
Over the past five years, dozens of uninhabited islands have been leased to local and foreign resort developers. Several international brands have entered into the market, increasing the number of resorts to 140. That number is set to increase as the government has announced the opening of some 20 new resorts by the end of this year.
Along with the new resort openings come the challenge of increasing demand from budget travellers who choose guesthouses over luxury resorts that the Maldives is known for. The guesthouse sector has rapidly expanded with over 500 guesthouses in operation today.
With the expansion comes the need to train locals for a range of new jobs that are expected to open up.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, a luxury destination resort located on the picturesque setting of Rangali Island in the Maldives, has announced a redesign of the unique mix of villas available on property.
Just in time for the festive season, by December 2019, the resort will introduce five new room types, including the Two-Bedroom Deluxe Beach Villa, Grand Water Villa with Pool, Grand Water Villa, Two-Bedroom Grand Water Villa with Pool and Two-Bedroom Grand Water Villa, encouraging all travellers — groups, families and couples alike — to find the room best suited to fit their every need and desire.
“Our pioneering innovative hospitality to cater to the passion points and needs of our guests is the cornerstone of this resort,” Stefano Ruzza, General Manager of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, was quoted in a statement, as saying.
“We are thrilled to debut new villa categories to discerning travellers, marking the beginning of the next chapter of Rangali history and our commitment to driving the evolution of travel to the Maldives.”
The Deluxe Beach Villas were refurbished throughout 2018 and 2019. A selection of villas have recently been converted into new luxury Two-Bedroom Deluxe Beach Villas to offer the ideal space for any Maldivian vacation.
The Two-Bedroom Deluxe Beach Villas will feature a new design with a private garden and pool, indoor bathroom with dual vanities, a private outdoor rain-shower and floor-to-ceiling glass windows that illuminate the villa with natural light. Set amongst the tropical greenery, the standout feature of the newly designed villa is the addition of the second bedroom adjacent to the main villa, which has been purposely designed to accommodate a twin bedroom with luxurious floor-to-ceiling glass windows.
In addition to the Two-Bedroom Deluxe Beach Villas, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is reinventing the Retreat Water Villas into two villa types — Grand Water Villa and Grand Water Villa with Pool.
A popular room category, the Water Villas are set on stilts above the gentle ocean waves where guests can discover the true meaning of indoor-outdoor living.
The redesigned villa will greet guests with a large living room, which can be converted into a second bedroom, along with views of the outdoor deck complete with a Jacuzzi or pool. Featuring clean lines and muted natural tones, the villas are located in the Spa Retreat, 100 metres off of the tip of the main island, Rangali Finolhu, with vistas across the Indian Ocean to the resort’s second island, Rangali.
The in-demand Family Water Villa will also be transformed into two villa types and renamed Two-Bedroom Grand Water Villa and Two-Bedroom Grand Water Villa with Pool.
The design of the two-bedroom accommodation will be similar to the Grand Water Villas, but it will offer two bedrooms instead of one and can host any group of guests. Set on stilts over the Indian Ocean, the villas offer views of either the lagoon or ocean and a sunset or sunrise view and can sleep a maximum of four persons — two adults and two children or four adults.
In addition to the new accommodations available at Conrad Maldives, THE MURAKA will be celebrating its one-year anniversary this November.
This first-of-its-kind residence, with living spaces both above and below the surface of the sea, is also thoughtfully designed for families and groups of friends as it sleeps up to nine guests. Coupled with the extraordinary services of a private chef, butler team and nanny quarters, THE MURAKA offers a truly immersive experience that showcases a fresh perspective of the Maldives.
Yuji Yamazaki, principal of Yuji Yamazaki Architecture PLLC, NYC and design collaborator on THE MURAKA residence, will apply his signature style of simple, paired-back luxury to the updated accommodations.
The design of the villas will feature a clean and minimalist aesthetic, giving the space a natural, bright and airy feel intended to focus on the beauty just outside of the villa. The new design will promote a sense of harmony with the surrounding environment, awakening but not overwhelming the senses and providing absolute privacy and exclusivity.
Set across two islands connected by an open-air overwater path, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island plans to announce additional enhancements in 2020, offering guests a Maldivian playground full of possibilities.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is located in South Ari Atoll and is accessible by a 30-minute seaplane flight from the Maldives main airport.
As one of the Maldives’ leading resorts and one of Hilton Worldwide’s flagship properties, the award-winning Conrad Maldives Rangali Island offers 150 villas and suites, 12 restaurants and bars, two spas — all stretched over two remote islands. It features the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, world’s first undersea restaurant made from only glass.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is home to two unique spa experiences; The Spa Retreat on Rangalifinolhu Island and the Over Water Spa on Rangali Island. Combining expertise from around the world with carefully selected products and therapies influenced by the environment, the two spas offer unique and effective experiences to suit the needs of every individual.
The luxury resort also offers the popular Conrad Concierge mobile app, which gives global luxury travellers the ability to customise details of their hotel stay before, during, and after each visit via a smartphone or tablet. Whether it is pre-selecting bath amenities or checking in while in-transit from the airport, guests can access a variety of features by using the app.
Meeru Island Resort & Spa has introduced “Sake”, a Japanese rice wine at its Asian Wok Restaurant.
This new addition will contribute a new flavour to the wide array of drinks already available — another must-try during your holiday at Meeru.
Meeru had recently rolled out a new menu at the popular overwater restaurant. The new menu includes amazing seafood and curry dishes that are bound to please.
The Asian Wok Restaurant offers guests Teppanyaki hot plates cuisine.
The Teppanyaki table at the Asian Wok Restaurant seats eight guests and overlooks Meeru’s lagoon for an exciting and unforgettable experience of Japanese cuisine in the Maldives. Your choice of dishes can be selected from the restaurant’s a la carte menu to be prepared fresh, in a theatrical display and to be served right from the teppan hot plate.
Located in the North Male Atoll and accessible by a 55-minute speedboat ride from the Maldives main Velana International Airport, Meeru is one of the largest resorts in the Maldives, offering its guests a variety of facilities and affordable to superior accommodation.
With five types of room categories to offer, Meeru counts more than 280 rooms, five restaurants, five bars, a renowned spa featuring treatment rooms both overwater and on land, and a wide range of sports and other recreation facilities.
Vakkaru Maldives has announced plans to welcome internationally-renowned fashion illustrator and author Megan Hess this festive season for the exclusive launch of her third book in The Claris Collection, Claris: Bonjour Riviera.
Surrounded by glistening turquoise waters and luxurious island settings, Vakkaru Maldives will set the scene for Claris’ new adventure in the French Riviera.
Guests who pre-book their seats, will be the first in the world to receive signed copies of Claris: Bonjour Riviera hot off the press, view the unveiling of Claris’ new resort collection by luxury fashion house Poca & Poca, attend an exclusive illustration masterclass conducted by Megan Hess and enjoy a bespoke Megan Hess dessert table on Orthodox Christmas night.
Megan Hess’ 2006 illustration of the New York Times No. 1 selling book, Sex and The City by Candace Bushnell catapulted her onto the world stage where she began illustrating portraits for the New York Times, Italian Vogue, Vanity Fair, TIME magazine and more.
Megan’s skills and iconic designs have also been specially commissioned by Bergdorf Goodman in New York, Harrods of London and used in global campaigns for FENDI, Tiffany & Co., Prada, Cartier, Dior, Valentino, Salvatore Ferragamo and more.
She has illustrated live for bespoke fashion shows around the world like Viktor & Rolf, Christian Dior Couture and Chopard at the 2019 Cannes International Film Festival.
She has written and illustrated numerous best-selling books, including: Fashion House, The Dress and Coco Chanel, New York, Paris, Claris: The Chicest Mouse in Paris, Iconic, Elegance and more.
Today, Megan Hess is one of the world’s most sought-after fashion illustrators with a revered client list that includes Michelle Obama, Gwyneth Paltrow, Cate Blanchett, Nicole Kidman and most recently Sarah Jessica Parker.
The Claris Collection was officially launched in 2018, offering readers delightful rhyming tales about courage, compassion and a stylish little mouse. From chasing her dream of moving to Paris in Claris: The Chicest Mouse in Paris, to racing against the clock to attend Paris Fashion Week in Claris: Fashion Fiasco, follow Claris’ next adventure as she stows away on the family trip to the French Riviera in Claris: Bonjour Riviera.
“The Claris Collection is destined to delight fashion-obsessed readers of all ages. It is about a little mouse who loves fashion, has an enormous heart and chases her dreams with courage and compassion,” says Megan Hess.
January 5, 2020 – Claris: Bonjour Riviera Book Launch and Poca & Poca Fashion Launch (Limited Seats)
Set against the crystal-clear waters surrounding Vakkaru Maldives and under the shaded coconut trees, guests will be treated to a Megan Hess book reading of Claris: Bonjour Riviera and a conversation with Megan on her inspiration behind Claris as a character and the concept of her new book.
Alongside the book launch, luxury fashion brand Poca & Poca by sister and brother duo Karolina and Wiktor Gniewek, will unveil their newest Claris fashion collection consisting of six key looks — a resort collection in hues of blues and creams inspired by Claris’ upcoming seaside adventure.
Crafted by a team of master tailors in Poland with precision and skill, each design is of the highest quality, exemplifying an energetic and youthful spirit. Timeless creations that are to be cherished and treasured forever.
Limited to only the first 10 guests who book, this is an exclusive experience where Megan Hess will be conducting a fashion illustration masterclass.
Vakkaru Maldives’ collection of ultra-immersive and cherished guest experiences is created in partnership with guest experiences specialist The Magnolia Creative Collaborations. Watch out for more experiences from culinary greats, wellness mentors and scent experts to fashion collaborations and exquisite artisanal pop-ups as Vakkaru Maldives aims to inspire guests by creating timeless memories and effortlessly beautiful moments.
To be part of ‘A Seaside Adventure with Claris The Mouse & Megan Hess’, guests can book their stay with our special Festive Offer and enjoy up to 35 per cent off room rates with breakfast when booking direct on vakkarumaldives.com.
Vakkaru Maldives is a secluded tropical island resort located within the Baa atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, in the heart of the Indian Ocean.
Only 30 minutes north of Velana International Airport by seaplane, Vakkaru – meaning coconut timber in Dhivehi – is an unforgettable paradise blessed with powder soft, brilliant white sand, crystal clear turquoise water, 360-degree uninterrupted views and sprawling coral reefs with unique marine biodiversity.
Keeping the natural beauty of the island as unspoilt as possible – including retaining over 2,300 fully grown coconut trees – and drawing on the rich traditions of the locale, design elements are focused on Maldivian style fused with the finest natural resources and contemporary interior.
Guests can revel in the choice of 113 beach and overwater villas and suites, as well as five sensational restaurants, two bars, a wine cellar and an outstanding array of treatments in the overwater Merana Spa.
Facilities also include Splash Dive and Water Sports, two tennis courts, a badminton court, the Parrotfish Club for children below 12 years, Coconut Club for teens and an overwater gymnasium with personal trainer.
For reservations and general information, please visit vakkarumaldives.com or contact reservations@vakkarumaldives.com.
La Liga club Celta Vigo has debuted its new kit that features the Maldives’ official tourism branding.
RC Celta players donned blue jerseys with “Maldives… The Sunny Side of Life” stamped on their sleeves during Saturday’s game against FC Barcelona.
Maldives tourism minister Ali Waheed watched the game at Camp Nou which ended in a 4-1 win for FC Barcelona.
“Tonight is a very historic night for @visitmaldives. We hope to be the sunny side of @RCCelta. Honoured to be part of the European football family & we invite everyone to our beautiful nation #Maldives the most beautiful and the safest,” the minister said, in a tweet just before the match.
Maldives had last week inked a sponsorship deal worth USD 2.7 million with Celta Vigo, as part of the destination’s newfound push into sports tourism.
Under the three-year partnership deal, the official ‘Maldives… The Sunny Side of Life’ branding will be featured on the sleeve of the game shirts and training kits of Celta’s first team. The club’s official bus, as well as various spaces in the Abanca Balaidos stadium and fields of training will also feature the Maldives’ tourism branding.
The partnership, which costs USD 900,000 per year, also covers development of football in the Maldives. Celta Vigo will receive several young Maldivian players for training at the club’s training academy, whilst club technicians will travel to the Maldives to share their knowledge and experience with the island nation’s national football team.
Celta is a Spanish professional football club based in Vigo, Galicia, currently playing in La Liga. It was founded on August 23, 1923 following the merger of Real Vigo Sporting and Real Fortuna Football Club.
Nicknamed Os Celestes (The Sky Blues), they play in sky blue shirts and socks along with white shorts. The club’s home stadium is the Abanca-Balaídos, which seats 29,000 spectators.
Celta have never won the league title nor Copa del Rey, although they have reached the final three times in the latter. One of the team’s best seasons was 1970–71, when they finished unbeaten at home and were known as the “giant-killers”. Celta came sixth that season and qualified for the UEFA Cup for the first time.
The club finished in their best-ever position of fourth in 2002–03, qualifying for the 2003–04 UEFA Champions League, where they were eliminated by Arsenal in the Round of 16. In the 2016–17 UEFA Europa League, Celta reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Europa League for the first time, losing to Manchester United.
This partnership with an international football club comes amidst a newfound push by the Maldives into sports tourism.
The island nation’s official tourism promotion body had earlier announced plans to look beyond the Maldives’ longstanding selling points of ‘Sun, Sand and Sea’ and venture into MICE, cultural and sports tourism.
The Maldives has been known as ‘The Sunny Side of Life’ for decades, owing to its monsoon-based climate, as well as the pristine white sand beaches and clear blue waters.
However, with recent changes in tourist demographics and the introduction of more affordable products such as guesthouses, there is a need to diversify the Maldives’ branding.
The government had earlier said cultural tourism would play an important role in developing the Maldives’ tourism industry. However, a concrete step has yet been taken to realise those objectives.
Maldives has welcomed over a million tourists this year, as the destination attempts to reach an ambitious target of 1.5 million visitors over the next two months.
The one millionth visitor of the year arrived in the Maldives on August 2 — a month ahead of last year. In 2018, the one millionth mark was reached on September 9, whilst it was celebrated in October the previous year.
According to official figures, total arrivals for the past nine months of the year increased by 15.8 per cent to reach 1,251,690 compared to the 1,080,459 in the same period last year.
Maldives welcomed a record 1.4 million tourists in 2018. It was a 6.8 per cent increase from the 1,389,542 tourists that chose to holiday in the Maldives in 2017.
Meanwhile, government has revised its forecast for the number of tourists visiting the island nation this year, increasing the estimate to a record 1.6 million from 1.5 million.
This positive growth in the tourism industry comes amidst concerns by private organisations representing industry stakeholders such as the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) over the lack of effort and budget to promote the Maldives as a destination.
These concerns come as the world-famous holiday destination struggles to match an increased bed capacity.
Over the past few years, dozens of uninhabited islands have been leased to local and foreign resort developers. Several international brands have entered into the market, increasing the number of resorts to more than 130. That number is set to increase as another 20 resorts are expected to open over the next two years.
Along with the new resort openings come the challenge of increasing demand from budget travellers who choose guesthouses over luxury resorts that the Maldives is known for. The guesthouse sector has rapidly expanded with over 500 guesthouses in operation today.
The previous government announced steps to maintain a structured growth in tourism, including a slowdown in leasing islands for resort development and increased marketing efforts in key markets such as China and the Middle East in order to reach an ambitious target of a record 1.5 million tourist arrivals this year.
Meanwhile, the new government has pledged to ramp up tourism promotion.
Reflecting the new government’s pledge, the state budget for 2019 includes MVR 104,200,000 (USD 6.7 million) for tourism promotion, up from MVR 34,733,333 (USD 2.2 million) this year and the previous year.
Kandima Maldives has announced a fist pumping ‘School of Rock’ schedule for the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations, taking guests back to the legendary era of rock ‘n’ roll with live performances from bands and DJs.
Mix pleasure and fitness with Beer Yoga sessions, get wet and wild with pool parties or enjoy a movie on the beach under the stars with your loved ones.
However you like your festival holidays, there will be something at Kandima to suit your tastes.
This year’s festive programme includes:
Music from the high-octane British band, Chart Attack.
Christmas tree lighting ceremony on December 22. After dinner, live music from Maldivian band The Kabans.
A special Christmas Eve buffet at Flavour & Zest.
Get creative with the Rocktail making camp and create those special mixes.
Get your Rock groove on with unique different types of inking at the Tattoo Parlour. DO not worry, these are all temporary!
Santa arrival on Christmas Day to hand out festive snacks to the little VIPs.
Diving with Santa.
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.
KandimaRocks party on December 31 kicks, as both Zest and Flavour restaurants offer scrumptious all-you-can-eat buffet for dinner followed after party on the beach with Chart Attack and DJ Akram. What better way to end the year! The evening ends with an awesome firework display over the tropical lagoon.
On January 1, a lavish Hangover Breakfast awaits all guests at Zest and Flavour restaurants, which will be followed by an awesome brunch taking place until 2.30pm.
On January 6, an Orthodox Christmas Eve Barefoot BBQ on the beach.
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 more information and booking, please visit kandima.com or contact the resort by phone +960 676 0077 or email mykindofplace@kandima.com.
Spanish hotel company Barceló Hotel Group has announced its entry into Asia through a joint investment in developing a three-hotel complex in Maldives.
For its entry into the Asian market, Barceló has signed an agreement with Sri Lanka’s Browns Investments PLC to develop a three-hotel complex in North Male Atoll, Maldives, and to manage five leisure properties of Browns Hotels and Resorts in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
The leading Spanish hotel company will join Browns Investments in developing three five-star hotels with 470 keys in North Male Atoll. It will invest USD 30 million for a 33.33 per cent stake in Browns Investments’ subsidiary, Bodufaru Beach Resorts Pvt Ltd, which holds the head lease rights to three plots of lagoon in the North Male Atoll.
Barceló will be the operator for the three-hotel development, which is valued at USD 150 million.
“We are extremely pleased to be joining with The Barceló Hotel Group, a world renowned hotel chain, and extend our gratitude for their confidence in choosing the LOLC Group as their partners, in this their first venture into the Asian region. We believe this historic venture will bring great synergies for the LOLC Group’s Leisure business, particularly as we commence with this unique leisure property in North Male valued at USD 150 mn,” Ishara Nanayakkara, Chairman of Browns Group, was quoted in a statement, as saying.
Under the agreement with Brown Investments, Barceló will also manage another property (100 keys) under construction on the island of Bodufinolhu in the Maldives’ South Ari Atoll.
Barceló will also operate the iconic Nasandhura Palace Hotel in Maldives’ capital Male, which is being reconstructed as the biggest hotel and residential development in the city after a 2015 acquisition by Browns Investments and its affiliates.
“Entry into the global tourist hotspots of Sri Lanka and the Maldives has always been a part of our long-term strategic geographic expansion plan. However, entering such a new region comes with risks which are unknown to us,” Raúl González, Chief Executive Officer of Barceló Hotel Group, was quoted in a statement, as saying.
“Therefore, it was important for us to enter the region with the right partner and LOLC backed Browns Hotels & Resorts was to us the best fit. Not only were we impressed with the quality of the portfolio and the scale they offered to us in the region but also their proactive attitude towards the search for the best agreement considering the interests of both parties and expectations of joint growth in the region.”
Barceló Hotel Group, founded in Palma de Mallorca (Spain) 88 years ago and still run as a family business, operates 247 hotels in 21 countries under four different brands: Royal Hideaway Luxury Hotels & Resorts, Barceló Hotels & Resorts, Occidental Hotels & Resorts, and Allegro Hotels.
In addition to the plots of lagoon in North Male Atoll, the island in South Ari Atoll and the hotel in capital Male, Browns Investments, part of LOLC Group, one of the biggest and most diversified conglomerates in Sri Lanka, had also acquired leasehold rights to an island in Raa atoll. However, it is unclear if any development had taken place on the island.
Maldives is set to welcome 20 new resort openings this year.
Eleven new resorts came into operation in 2016, followed by at least 15 new resorts in 2017 and 20 new properties last year.
Over the past few years, dozens of uninhabited islands have been leased to local and foreign resort developers. Several international brands have entered into the market, increasing the number of resorts in operation to more than 140.
Existing international players are also upping their presence, with Marriott International launching Westin and JW Marriott in Maldives, Hilton Worldwide re-introducing its top-end luxury brand Waldorf Astoria, Aitken Spence introducing its Heritance brand, Minor Hotel Group to introduce its AVANI brand, Onyx Hospitality Group to introduce its OZO brand with its second property in the island nation, and LUX* Hotels and Resorts opening its second resort in the Maldives. The Residence by Cenizaro has also opened its second Maldivian property, whilst Thai hospitality group Centara Hotels & Resorts has announced the development of its fifth resort in Maldives.
Along with the new resort openings come the challenge of increasing demand from budget travellers who choose guesthouses over luxury resorts that the Maldives is known for. The guesthouse sector has rapidly expanded with over 500 guesthouses in operation today.
The previous government had announced new steps to maintain a structured growth in tourism, including a slowdown in leasing islands for resort development and increased marketing efforts in key markets such as China and the Middle East in order to reach an ambitious target of a record 1.5 million tourist arrivals this year.
Meanwhile, the new government has pledged to ramp up tourism promotion.
Reflecting the new government’s pledge, the state budget for 2019 includes MVR 104,200,000 (USD 6.7 million) for tourism promotion, up from MVR 34,733,333 (USD 2.2 million) this year and the previous year.
Veligandu Island Resort & Spa has introduced an all-new a la carte menu for lunch and dinner at its Madivaru Restaurant.
“We believe that excellent dining is essential in hospitality. Therefore, we don’t only look for high-quality ingredients and innovative ideas, but also expert techniques and appealing presentation to ensure our guests always have memorable experiences,” an announcement by the resort read.
“Come and try our new dishes. They’ll surprise you!”
The Madivaru Restaurant is located on the west side of the island and features a delicious menu of appetisers, main courses and desserts.
Veligandu, surrounded by a beautiful lagoon and a long stretch of white sandy beach, is the only resort on the island of Veligandu in North Ari Atoll. The resort, which is accessible by a scenic 20-minute seaplane flight from the main Velana International Airport, has 91 rooms, including 54 Jacuzzi Water Villas, 10 Water Villas, 16 Jacuzzi Beach Villas and 11 Beach Villas.
Joali Maldives has extended its art immersive philosophy with the launch of new art experiences and a roster of visiting artists, as the resort celebrates its first anniversary.
From the very beginning, Joali’s founders knew they needed to create something entirely different if they wanted to set this resort apart from the archipelago’s other private islands. By staying at one of the best, you know you’ll be treated to the sugar white sand, turquoise water and abundant marine life the Maldives is known for and the ultimate in gastronomy, wellness and style.
For Joali to stand out, this had to be more than just a case of styling the resort differently. To give this island its distinct identity, they decided to integrate experiential artworks into the luxury villas and natural environment, enhancing the experience guests have through this artwork.
The manta-inspired arrival jetty of Joali Maldives. PHOTO/ JOALI MALDIVES
Ala Onur and Zyenap Ercan of No LaB curated the selection of international artists, then these artists set about creating pieces that represent the island’s natural surroundings, bringing more character to the resort whilst also reconnecting people to nature. Some of these artworks were created on-site and some were made using native materials.
You can now dive down to the coral-inspired underwater mosaic sculpture garden of New York artist Misha Kahn, climb in the cocoon-like Evolution Chair of Spanish artist Nacho Carbonell, and sit back in the hanging Heron Chair of South African artist Porky Hefer who also created one of the most prominent artworks on the island, the playful Manta Ray Treehouse. The lush courtyard of the spa is home to Israeli artist Zemer Peled’s sculpture, Maldives Vibes, which takes inspiration from the Maldives’ extraordinary marine environment.
The cocoon-like Evolution Chair by Nacho Carbonell. PHOTO/ JOALI MALDIVESThe Heron Chair by Porky Hefer. PHOTO/ JOALI MALDIVESThe Manta Ray Treehouse and Nest by Porky Hefer. PHOTO/ JOALI MALDIVES
Proving exceptional attention to detail, bespoke artwork and design is integrated throughout every aspect of the resort experience. Turkish artist Feleksan Onar created glass pineapple and coral objects for the each villa’s mini bar, and Cape Town’s design studio Ardmore came up with a heron and frangipani flower design for the in-villa beach kaftans.
All of these bespoke pieces of art are then integrated into the architectural and interior design of the Istanbul studio, Autobahn, who used custom-designed furnishings, hand-carved wooden panels, bamboo elements and terrazzo flooring to create a sense of tropical island chic. Istanbul-based Atölye4n created the manta ray structure that welcomes you at the arrival jetty and Tokyo-based Studio Glitt came up with the origami-like timber design of the overwater Japanese restaurant, Saoke.
The manta-inspired arrival jetty of Joali Maldives. PHOTO/ JOALI MALDIVES
Joali, which made its debut in October 2018, plans to add to this art collection on an on-going basis, and to extend the art concept in its second year Joali is beginning its series of visiting-artist-run workshops.
This series will begin with a two-week programme by Zemer Peled, the creator of the spa-based coral sculpture, who is known for her porcelain artworks inspired by natural forms.
“We want some of the same artists who created work for the island to come back for two weeks to three months to host workshops in the island’s studio. I want them to use interesting mediums like painting on silk or clay. We’re putting a kiln in for Zemer, so she can do ceramics with the guests, then we’ll keep the kiln here. At the same time, I’m asking the artists who come over to leave an artwork behind, so we’ll get a new piece of artwork from each set of workshops we host,” Steven Phillips, the General Manager at Joali, said.
The Autobahn-designed interiors of Joali’s luxury overwater pool villas. PHOTO/ JOALI MALDIVES
From December 23, 2019 to January 6, 2020, Peled will be leading paper and clay workshops for guests on the island. You’ll be able to join the artist in the Joali Studio each day to gain insight into the Maldivian coral reefs and create your own paper and clay artworks to take home with you at the end of your stay. You’ll look at the colours and shapes found within the reef while experimenting with different ways of working with the materials, from moulding the clay to paper folding and painting.
“My sculpture, Maldives Vibes, was inspired by the rich underwater world of the Maldives coral reefs. It is primarily white in colour to symbolise the coral bleaching that has affected the Maldives, but the striking colours that embellish the sculpture serve as both a memory of the vibrant coral reef and encouragement for its future protection. Over the course of two weeks, participants of my workshop on Joali will create their own paper and clay sculptures inspired by the Maldives coral reefs,” Peled explained.
Zemer Peled working on her coral-inspired sculpture, Maldives Vibes. PHOTO/ FETHI IZAN – P BLOK
To hear the story behind the island’s artworks whilst you’re there, you can sign up for the, also newly established, art tour for which members of the Joali team have been specially trained.
Joali Maldives is a luxury, immersive art resort located on the island of Muravandhoo in Raa atoll. The 73-villa property offers unconventional luxury in a private setting and a distinct focus on design by internationally-renowned design studio Autoban, architecture and design firm Atolye4n and Tokyo-based Studio Glitt.
Innovative dining concepts include Japanese restaurant Saoke, authentic Asian and Levant restaurant Vandhoo, Tuscan-inspired Bellinis, personalised dining and cooking school Her Kitchen, as well as numerous destination dining experiences.
The Spa by ESPA invites guests on a holistic wellness journey along with a world-class fitness centre and expert trainers.
Joali Maldives celebrates its “Joie de Vivre” philosophy through unique programming such as Maldivian excursions and one-of-a-kind on-property offerings, including an Art Studio and Gallery, Flower Garden, Manta Ray Treehouse and more.
Development of Velana International Airport is one of the key priority projects to be undertaken by the government next year, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih announced Sunday.
In his address at the official function held to mark the Republic Day, President Solih said the project to develop the Maldives’ main international airport had resumed. It had been continuing at a fast pace, he added.
Designing and construction of the new passenger terminal, which is expected to cater to at least seven million passengers per annum, was contracted to the Saudi Binladin Group in 2016, with the completion date set for late 2019.
However, the project came to a halt last year after the Saudi Fund for Development, which contributes majority of the funding for the terminal project, withheld funds amidst political turmoil and presidential elections.
The new government had negotiated with the aid agency to restart the project. A revised agreement was signed with Saudi Binladin Group in June.
Under the revised contract, the terminal and associated facilities are to be built in a 78,000sqm area.
The project, which is now set to complete in May 2022, includes building six contact stands and four remote stands at the new international terminal Building, land side roads and landscaping works, seaplane area with tourist lounges, fine dining, retail and lounges, MEP works including inline BHS, and vertical and horizontal assisted transportation which is compliant with EU and local security regulations. Demolition of existing pier building and related works is also included in the scope of work under the revised contract.
The new international terminal is part of a USD 800 million mega project to expand and upgrade the main Velana International Airport. The project also involves building a brand new runway and a seaplane terminal as well as other support facilities, including a fuel farm that can store 45 million litres and a 120,000 tonne cargo facility.
USD 570 million of the USD 800 million needed for the project have been raised from international financiers, especially Arab funding agencies. It includes a USD 100 million loan from Saudi Fund for Development, a USD 50 million loan from Kuwait Fund, a USD 50 million loan from OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) and a USD 50 million loan from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development.
China EXIM Bank also granted a loan of USD 400 million for the new runway, which was contracted to Beijing Urban Construction Group (BUCG) of China. The new runway is set to come into operation later this year.
MACL had also invested USD 50 million from its own funds.
The airport is a key infrastructure that supports the Maldives multi-billion dollar tourism industry. Expansion of the airport is expected to boost tourist arrivals to the island nation as it aims to attract at least two million tourists by 2020.
Meeru Island Resort & Spa has introduced a special ‘Dine Around’ concept for long stays at the resort.
The ‘Dine Around’ concept is an additional benefit for guests staying at the resort for a minimum of five nights.
As part of the new concept, special Asian menus will be available to choose from at the resort’s Asian Wok Restaurant. Some delicious Western menus will also be served at the Hot Rock Restaurant.
The overwater Asian Wok Restaurant offers guests Teppanyaki hot plates cuisine.
The Teppanyaki table at the Asian Wok Restaurant seats eight guests and overlooks Meeru’s lagoon for an exciting and unforgettable experience of Japanese cuisine in the Maldives. Your choice of dishes can be selected from the restaurant’s a la carte menu to be prepared fresh, in a theatrical display and to be served right from the teppan hot plate.
The Hot Rock Restaurant offers seafood, steak, chicken or exotic game cooked at your table on volcanic “hot rocks”. The restaurant is situated on the Pavilion Bar Pool deck.
Located in the North Male Atoll and accessible by a 55-minute speedboat ride from the Maldives main Velana International Airport, Meeru is one of the largest resorts in the Maldives, offering its guests a variety of facilities and affordable to superior accommodation.
With five types of room categories to offer, Meeru counts more than 280 rooms, five restaurants, five bars, a renowned spa featuring treatment rooms both overwater and on land, and a wide range of sports and other recreation facilities.
South Palm Resort Maldives, a brand new resort being developed on the uninhabited island of Ismehela Hera in the southernmost Addu atoll, has announced a fresh recruitment drive.
The resort, set to open on December 1, is looking for qualified individuals for its housekeeping, front office, food and beverage, transport and kitchen departments.
Interested candidates are requested to email their CV to careers@southpalmresort.com.
The resort had in March hosted recruitment open days.
South Palm Resort Maldives is accessible by a short 10-minute speedboat ride from Gan International Airport in Addu. The resort offers accommodation in 130 rooms of six categories: Sunrise Villa, Palm Villa, Beach Villa, Family Villa, Water Villa and Overwater Pool Villa.
The Banyan Restaurant allows guests to experience the creativity and warmth of international cuisine in a romantic setting, whilst the Kanduolhi Bar offers grilled seafood, premium steaks or set menus in a private setting. At Moodhu Bar, guests can chill to the next level with nightly entertainment.
The Kurumba Spa at South Palm Resort is a sanctuary for the senses, overlooking the clear blue ocean. It features the first-ever ‘floating spa rooms’ in Maldives for sessions of personal rejuvenation.
Southern Maldives Divers, a PADI Five-Star Dive Centre, offers guests the chance to explore the remote waters of Addu. Amazing dive sites are close by and an abundance of manta rays can be seen year round.
Owned and operated by Maldives-based South Palm Maldives Pvt Ltd, the four-star resort is being developed in three phases, with the first phase covering the first batch of rooms along with a restaurant, two bars and a spa. The second phase will bring the total number of rooms to 240, whilst the third phase involves linking the adjoining Kedevaahera island via a causeway and developing more water villas.
Development of a tourist resort on the island of Ismehela Hera has long been planned out with the project making headlines as recently as 2015 when the government announced that it was in talks with two foreign investors that had expressed interest in developing the island. Then tourism minster Moosa Zameer told local journalists at the time that the resort would have at least 600 beds.
The announcement was followed by the launch of Ismehela Hera Integrated Resort Development Project on April 28, 2015. No progress, however, was made.
Meanwhile, government had revealed in 2017 that a local company had won the bid for the island and had paid the acquisition cost.
The latest initiative to develop Ismehela Hera is part of a new push to develop tourism in the southernmost Addu. Government has separately launched a project to develop 3,000 beds in Addu to cater to backpackers and budget travellers.
Maldives, known world over for its upmarket tourism industry, has resorts in the hundreds spread across the archipelago. The industry has in recent years expanded to introduce more affordable segments, including guesthouses and liveaboards.
Despite several new resort developments and a boom in guesthouse tourism in the Maldives, Addu as a whole has lagged behind for years in attracting tourism-related investments. The relatively large atoll, which has unique geographical features compared to other parts of the island nation, is home to only two of the some 140 tourist resorts in the Maldives; Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, and Canareef Resort Maldives.
However, tourism in the south has recently received a much needed boost from the launch of direct flights to Gan International Airport by SriLankan Airlines.
Neighbouring Sri Lanka’s flagship carrier, which is particularly popular amongst tourists who travel to the Maldives from Europe, currently operates six weekly flights to Gan from Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, the pioneering resort nestled in the South Ari Atoll, invites guests on an eco-journey this festive season, bringing the resort’s robust sustainability and community outreach programme to the forefront of its holiday celebrations.
On December 26, Conrad Maldives will present its very first Maldivian Artisanal Market, hosting local artists and designers who share the resort’s commitment to support the local culture.
Participating brands will include MAJOIE Maldives – a first in natural and sustainable luxury skincare, offering products handmade by Maldivian women, to empower and support them within their local communities, using a combination of natural, organic, wild crafted, cruelty free and sustainably harvested ingredients, with the main ingredient being the King Coconut – uniquely indigenous to the Maldives.
Conrad Maldives’ festive market will also welcome Island Bazaar, a lifestyle brand offering homeware, apparel and jewellery – including ocean-friendly metal straws, and the creations of Maldivian artist Eagan Badeeu, whose Manta Ray-inspired artwork is displayed in some of the resort’s premium water villas.
Throughout the festive season, the resort’s guests can enjoy a wide range of exclusive experiences. These include special menus at an array of restaurants, such as dining with celebrity chef Jereme Leung at Ufaa restaurant, serving culinary creations designed for the holiday season and a winter wonderland market with games, food stalls and a visit from Santa Claus himself, ensuring fun for all.
Conrad Maldives’ green festivities will also include a Christmas tree competition between the resort’s working departments to create the most beautiful and sustainable Christmas tree, using recycled materials such as water bottles, plastic containers, etc.
Between December 18 and 23, guests will be able to vote for their favourite, mainly based on sustainability and creativity. A winner will be announced at a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony scheduled for December 24, with celebrations including carols and cocktails over the magical setting of the Indian Ocean.
The year 2019 has seen Conrad Maldives taking a step further with its commitment to sustainability, as the resort pledged to eliminate the use of plastic on property by January 2020.
Earlier this year, Conrad Maldives collaborated with eco-artist John K. Melvin, which resulted in the creation of art installation EvoGyre – resembling a jellyfish, it was assembled using nearly 5,500 locally sourced single-use plastic bottles held together by coir rope, steel cable and illuminated by LED lighting. Guests can admire it at Rangali Bar.
To cap off the festive celebrations, the resort is introducing five new room types including the Two-Bedroom Deluxe Beach Villa, Grand Water Villa with Pool, Grand Water Villa, Two-Bedroom Grand Water Villa with Pool and Two-Bedroom Grand Water Villa, encouraging all travellers – groups, families and couples alike – to find the villa best suited to fit their every need and desire.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is located in South Ari Atoll and is accessible by a 30-minute seaplane flight from the Maldives main airport.
As one of the Maldives’ leading resorts and one of Hilton Worldwide’s flagship properties, the award-winning Conrad Maldives Rangali Island offers 150 villas and suites, 12 restaurants and bars, two spas — all stretched over two remote islands. It features the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, world’s first undersea restaurant made from only glass.
As the latest innovation, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island had unveiled the world’s first undersea villa. A triumph of modern design and technology, THE MURAKA is a two-level structure comprised of space above the sea level and an undersea suite designed for sleeping under the ocean’s surface.
The resort had also invested USD 8.3 million in redeveloping its 42 award-winning Deluxe Beach Villas. Designed by THE MURAKA undersea residence’s design collaborator Yuji Yamazaki, the new Deluxe Beach Villas are a celebration of the natural environment and continue to be one of the resort’s most popular villa categories.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is also home to two unique spa experiences; The Spa Retreat on Rangalifinolhu Island and the Over Water Spa on Rangali Island. Combining expertise from around the world with carefully selected products and therapies influenced by the environment, the two spas offer unique and effective experiences to suit the needs of every individual.
The luxury resort also offers the popular Conrad Concierge mobile app, which gives global luxury travellers the ability to customise details of their hotel stay before, during, and after each visit via a smartphone or tablet. Whether it is pre-selecting bath amenities or checking in while in-transit from the airport, guests can access a variety of features by using the app.
Rates at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island start from USD 790 in Beach Villa, B&B, double occ. For more information and for reservations, please visit http://www.conradmaldives.com
Six Senses Laamu, together with Blue Marine Foundation, have taken home the Gold Award for Wildlife and Nature Conservation at World Travel Market’s (WTM) Responsible Tourism Awards.
The award recognises the #ProtectMaldivesSeagrass campaign, which was jointly initiated by Six Senses Laamu’s Maldives Underwater Initiative and Blue Marine Foundation’s Resilient Reefs Project, with the aim of changing the perspective of seagrass in the Maldives tourism industry.
The campaign resulted in one quarter of resorts in the Maldives pledging to protect over 655,000sqm of seagrass, the equivalent of 90 football fields.
In addition, the campaign was officially endorsed by the Maldives’ tourism ministry, illustrating that seagrass and tourism can indeed coexist.
Diverse marine life, such as turtles, sharks, rays, and even seahorses can be found in the seagrass meadows surrounding Six Senses Laamu.
Six Senses Laamu is the first and one of the only two resorts in the pristine Laamu atoll. Most of the villas and facilities are built overwater, however beach villas and on-land dining are an option. All villas offer a sense of privacy and seclusion, with an amazing view to the ocean and Maldivian nature.
Six Senses Laamu offers a wide range of dining options, with cuisines from around the world, an ice cream parlour, an overwater wine cellar and a signature Chill Bar. Many activities, excursions and options are available for everyone to enjoy, both overwater and underwater, in addition to the Six Senses Spa.
Six Senses Laamu hosts one of the largest teams of marine biologists in the Maldives, the Maldives Underwater Initiative (MUI). Staff from Six Senses Laamu and its three partner NGOs: Manta Trust, Blue Marine Foundation and Olive Ridley Project work together under the banner of MUI and seek to lead the tourism industry in the Maldives with meaningful marine conservation efforts based on research, education and community outreach.
The WTM Responsible Tourism Awards recognises responsible tourism practices and initiatives that inspire others and are replicable across the travel and tourism industry. The award aims to showcase great examples of responsible tourism in practice so we can use them to educate others, including consumers, about what can be achieved and to challenge others to do as well or better.
The WTM World Responsible Tourism Awards are presented each year at WTM London, in front of an audience of 600 key influencers and decision makers. These awards are a centre piece of WTM Responsible Tourism Day – the biggest responsible tourism event globally.
Learn more about the campaign at www.protectmaldivesseagrass.com and show your support for the campaign on social media by using the hashtag #ProtectMaldivesSeagrass.
More than 100 activities had been carried out throughout the world this year to promote Maldives’ tourism, making it a highly successful year for the destination, the island nation’s official tourism promotion body announced Tuesday.
Thoyyib Mohamed, Managing Director of Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), told journalists that 113 out of the planned 135 activities had already been carried out. Another 30 would be conducted over the coming weeks, he said.
“We have gathered the opinion of industry stakeholders and implemented corporate governance principles throughout the corporation,” Thoyyib said, during a press conference held at MMPRC’s offices in capital Male.
MMPRC took part in 17 international travel trade fairs in 2018 and some 20 this year. Other activities that had been carried out this year include:
Five roadshows in 13 markets
17 media fam trips
11 promotional activities carried out via worldwide PR agents
12 joint promotional activities
a training programme for guesthouses
MMPRC had announced plans to participate in over 45 international travel trade fairs in 2020.
Maldives has welcomed over a million tourists this year, as the destination attempts to reach an ambitious target of 1.5 million visitors over the next month.
The one millionth visitor of the year arrived in the Maldives on August 2 — a month ahead of last year. In 2018, the one millionth mark was reached on September 9, whilst it was celebrated in October the previous year.
According to official figures, total arrivals for the past nine months of the year increased by 15.8 per cent to reach 1,251,690 compared to the 1,080,459 in the same period last year.
Maldives welcomed a record 1.4 million tourists in 2018. It was a 6.8 per cent increase from the 1,389,542 tourists that chose to holiday in the Maldives in 2017.
The government had revised its forecast for the number of tourists visiting the island nation this year, increasing the estimate to a record 1.6 million from 1.5 million.
Meanwhile, the government had proposed adding MVR 50 million (USD 3.23 million) to the annual marketing budget of the tourism ministry.
In the proposed state budget for 2020, the government had allocated MVR 154.2 million (USD 9.98 million) for tourism promotion.
A parliamentary select committee is currently reviewing the budget.
The new government, which came to power in 2018, pledged to ramp up tourism promotion.
Reflecting the new government’s pledge, the state budget for 2019 includes MVR 104,200,000 (USD 6.7 million) for tourism promotion, up from MVR 34,733,333 (USD 2.2 million) in 2018 and 2017.
Maldives has kicked off a multi-city roadshow targeting the Nordic region.
The roadshow, held from November 12-15, covers four cities. It began in Copenhagen, Denmark on Tuesday, and will move to Oslo, Norway on Wednesday, followed by Stockholm, Sweden on Thursday, and concluding in Helsinki, Finland on Friday.
Organised by the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), 13 representative partners from the tourism industry of Maldives have participated in the roadshow.
The roadshow is aimed at providing a platform for industry partners to reach top outbound tour operators from the region through networking opportunities.
The partners have the opportunity to meet over 200 buyers and media representatives, with the potential of reaching 20 million potential visitors from the region.
“The roadshow will be extensively covered by mainstream and travel trade media in the market,” a statement issued by MMPRC read.
Nordic region is the third largest outbound market in Europe, spending 90 per cent more money than the average European tourist.
“With its high net worth population and aspiration to visit the Maldives, it is a highly potential market for the Maldives. The roadshow will help significantly boost arrivals from the region,” the statement read.
MMPRC had been organising roadshows in key potential markets as part of its “Journey to the Sunny Side” series, a marketing campaign launched by MMPRC in 2019.
Komandoo Maldives has welcomed back its most frequent visitors, Michael Niemmen and Susanne Niemmen.
This is their 24th visit to Komandoo!
As Komandoo pros, Michael and Susanne know how to make the most of their time in paradise. Taking advantage of Komandoo’s All-Inclusive Gold package, they enjoy the fantastic treatments available at Duniye Spa, the great excursions available and mouth-watering range of cocktails on offer – with Sparkling de amor and Gin Martini’s being some of their favourites.
Both keen divers, they always join the Prodivers team for some dives on the stunning reefs around Komandoo and snorkel its beautiful house reef, where all guests can discover the amazing marine life that inhabits the waters of the Maldives.
When asked what it is about Komandoo that keeps them coming back time and time again to the resort, their answer is simple – it’s Komandoo’s Champions, the team who always work hard to ensure our guests have an incredible time.
Located in Lhaviyani atoll, Komandoo offers 65 villas in five categories. Each of them is independent well-appointed villas spaced adequately to provide privacy.
Since first opening in 1998, the resort has provided its guests with a unique take on the Maldivian dream holiday with its quiet, adult-only vibe, understated luxury and excellent service. It has remained one of the country’s best-ranking resorts for romance and a firm favourite to anyone looking for an adults-only, small island getaway in the Maldives.
Kihaa Maldives has announced a delightful festive programme with a diverse set of joyful events, parties and activities.
Festive celebrations at Kihaa Maldives will start a little early, on December 23, and set the pace for a perfect New Year.
A range of activities has been set, starting from Christmas day to New Years for both children and adults. The resort will host different entertainment programmes and live music along with treasure hunts and competitions where guests stand to win exciting prizes.
Kihaa Maldives will host a festive gala dinner on Christmas Eve, ‘A traditional Christmas’, followed by a Christmas breakfast buffet. Santa Claus will make a very special appearance on the eve of Christmas with Ho! Ho! Ho!s and smiles.
For the New Year celebrations, Kihaa Maldives will host a divine gourmet gala buffet on the beach, themed ‘Keyolhu’, which translates to ‘fisherman’ in local Dhivehi language. The entire island will be decorated with palm leaves and the buffet will boast plenty of seafood to choose from. Guests are welcome to dress in blue or white to be in line with the theme.
Entertainment throughout the evening will see guests bidding goodbye to 2019 in style and welcoming 2020 with new resolutions.
The resort’s culinary department will also host an evening with pop-up stalls to celebrate traditions, cultures and cuisines from around the globe, offering visitors a wide array of delicious cuisines and dishes together with a hint of culture.
All guests staying between December 15, 2019 and January 20, 2020 will be entitled to participate in a ‘celebrate and win’ raffle, and stand a chance to win seven nights stay during the manta ray season in 2020.
Set within the sparkling waters of UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa atoll, Kihaa Maldives is located on a picturesque 600m-long island festooned with jungle foliage, a white sandy beach which stretches the entire circumference of the island and a lively coral reef.
There are 124 villas, which combine contemporary and classic features such as elegant furniture, romantic four poster beds and exotic rattan lounge seats. Complementing these villas is the new 10-bedroom The Kihaa Signature Residence, the largest resort villa in Maldives. The residence comes with its own infinity swimming pool, an outdoor jacuzzi, luxury yacht, private beach and a Kihaa Spa, as well as a well-equipped gym featuring sauna and steam room.
The resort features an exquisite new infinity pool and bar along with a delightful extension to the Malaafaiy Restaurant. The new cosy Wine Loft and Hanifaru Bay Tea House offers private sand castle dining where guests can expect the same quality of service throughout.
The overwater Kihaa Spa is a serene sanctuary surrounded by soothing views and sounds of the ocean, where guests can fully enjoy tranquility and relaxation. The spa features six spa treatment rooms: three treatment rooms for couples, one treatment room for a person, one room for foot massage, manicure and pedicure, one room for Thai massage. Shared sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi are available, as well as spa relaxation lounge and spa boutique shop. The Kihaa Spa has been twinned with a tranquil garden spa offering a wide range of comprehensive spa experiences.
Scuba diving is one of the most popular activities at Kihaa, which is accessible by a 20-minute domestic plane ride from the main Velana International Airport. Guests can explore the area’s top dive sites featuring mega fauna including whale sharks and manta rays, and also visit the famous Marine Protected Area of Hanifaru Bay for snorkelling.
Maldives will soon welcome the 1.5 millionth visitor of the year, achieving its target for 2019, the country’s official tourism promotion body announced Tuesday.
Thoyyib Mohamed, Managing Director of Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), told journalists that the goal of increasing the annual visitor number to 1.5 million by the end of 2019 is expected to be achieved by the last week of November.
“We will be achieving our target one month ahead. During the last week of this November, the 1.5 millionth visitor will set foot on Maldivian soil,” Thoyyib said, during a press conference held at MMPRC’s offices in capital Male.
Thoyyib attributed this success to new and existing efforts by his corporation and the industry to promote the Maldives’ tourism.
MMPRC had already carried out 113 out of the planned 135 activities for this year. The corporation expects to host another 30 over the coming weeks.
MMPRC took part in 17 international travel trade fairs in 2018 and some 20 this year. Other activities that had been carried out this year include:
Five roadshows in 13 markets
17 media fam trips
11 promotional activities carried out via worldwide PR agents
12 joint promotional activities
a training programme for guesthouses
MMPRC had announced plans to participate in over 45 international travel trade fairs in 2020.
Maldives has welcomed over a million tourists this year, as the destination attempts to reach an ambitious target of 1.5 million visitors over the next month.
The one millionth visitor of the year arrived in the Maldives on August 2 — a month ahead of last year. In 2018, the one millionth mark was reached on September 9, whilst it was celebrated in October the previous year.
According to official figures, total arrivals for the past nine months of the year increased by 15.8 per cent to reach 1,251,690 compared to the 1,080,459 in the same period last year.
Maldives welcomed a record 1.4 million tourists in 2018. It was a 6.8 per cent increase from the 1,389,542 tourists that chose to holiday in the Maldives in 2017.
The government had revised its forecast for the number of tourists visiting the island nation this year, increasing the estimate to a record 1.6 million from 1.5 million.
Meanwhile, the government had proposed adding MVR 50 million (USD 3.23 million) to the annual marketing budget of the tourism ministry.
In the proposed state budget for 2020, the government had allocated MVR 154.2 million (USD 9.98 million) for tourism promotion.
A parliamentary select committee is currently reviewing the budget.
The new government, which came to power in 2018, pledged to ramp up tourism promotion.
Reflecting the new government’s pledge, the state budget for 2019 includes MVR 104,200,000 (USD 6.7 million) for tourism promotion, up from MVR 34,733,333 (USD 2.2 million) in 2018 and 2017.
Hurawalhi Maldives has opened a dedicated cinema for its team members.
One person’s dream holiday destination is another person’s workplace – which is why at Hurawalhi, the management does its best to ensure team members get all the support they need and the comforts they deserve. After all, it is the team’s satisfaction that in turn makes the resort’s guests happy.
“The owners’ and General Manager’s attention to the well-being of the team is rather unique and definitely above standard. The facilities are constantly improving and the resort is always on the lookout for new ideas how the daily lives of those living on the small island can be made even more eventful, fulfilling and comfortable,” an announcement by the resort read.
The latest addition that the team enjoy a lot is the cinema, which is perfect for them to chill out with colleagues at the end of a long day.
There’s also a funky barber shop, a nice staff beach, a games room, regular sports tournaments, and volleyball and badminton courts where everyone can keep fit and spend quality time with friends.
No Maldivian island is complete without football – guests can see Hurawalhi F.C. showcase their dribbling, passing and heading, and of course join in, at the football field in the guest area.
Happiness rarely keeps company with an empty stomach, so the resort’s chefs cook delicious meals that take into consideration the various dietary requirements of the multicultural team; with an extensive choice of buffet dishes and live cooking stations, there’s something energy-boosting for any taste. Just in: a chapati machine to make this beloved bread that’s a staple and a taste of home to many of the team members.
“The natural bliss and the luxury you experience during your holiday at Hurawalhi don’t just magically happen – it takes a hardworking, dedicated and passionate team to create a working culture that puts your well-being first. Hurawalhi can call itself lucky to have such a team – and we believe it’s a privilege for them to work here too,” the announcement read.
Officially inaugurated in January 2016, the five-star Hurawalhi resort is accessible by a 40-minute scenic seaplane flight from the main airport, and offers 90 villas, including 60 Ocean Villas and 30 Beach Villas, for grown-ups who are seeking luxury and innovation. The villas are stylishly and beautifully conceived featuring soothing décor, sumptuous linens on king size beds, bleached wooden floors, and private terraces with panoramic views.
There is an ocean of delights to take in at Hurawalhi: dining at 5.8 Undersea Restaurant, snuggling up with your darling under a blanket or sparkling stars on the iconic Dream Island sandbank, falling in love with the plethora of marine life on the island’s doorstep – in fact, one visit to the resort is hardly enough to experience it all.
the most beautiful and the safest,” the minister said, in a tweet just before the match.
