Manta Air on Tuesday welcomed the sixth aircraft to its seaplane fleet, as the game changing local ramps up its presence in the local aviation sector.

The DHC-6 Twin Otter, which landed at the Maldives’ main Velana International Airport Tuesday afternoon, is the sixth out of 10 aircraft joining Manta Air’s seaplane fleet this year.

The sixth aircraft joining Manta Air’s seaplane fleet is a special delivery as it is the very last DHC 6-300 series aircraft produced by DeHavilland Canada before the line was officially shut down in 1988.

The Twin Otter line was revived in 2005 by Viking Air under licence. The Canadian company began producing the Twin Otter 400 series in 2007.

Manta Air had earlier brought in five DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft.

All of Manta Air’s DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft are fitted with the latest Garmin G950 NXi next generation integrated flight deck avionics combined with a weather radar. Garmin G950 equipment includes dual core modern processing power, providing crew with immediate access to flight plan data and weather radar information.

Manta Air had early this month launched the first scheduled seaplane service in the Maldives, bringing another revolutionary experience to the skies of Maldives.

Manta Air’s seaplane operations set a new benchmark for the seaplane service standards in the Maldives, as it follows the high standards already set by Manta Air’s domestic flight operations.

The arrival of Manta Air has already been a game changer in the domestic aviation industry, removing the fears of flight uncertainty for passengers flying in the Maldives, and setting new standards in service excellence along the way with pre-published schedules and a tailored approach to provide an amazing experience to all passengers.

For its seaplane service, Manta Air will publish monthly schedules — a first in the Maldives’ seaplane sector as well as in the world. Passengers will receive confirmed flight timings along with their hotel confirmation.

In addition to the seaplane service, Manta Air utilises three brand new ATR 72-600 aircraft to operate domestic flights to Dhaalu Airport, located on the island of Kudahuvadhoo in Dhaalu atoll, and Dharavandhoo Airport, located on the island of Dharavandhoo in Baa atoll, from the Maldives’ main Velana International Airport.

Manta Air’s venture into seaplane operations comes, as a new seaplane base at the main Velana International Airport nears completion.

As part of an ongoing USD 800 million mega project to expand and upgrade the Maldives’ main gateway, construction of a new seaplane terminal kicked off in January 2018. The four-storey terminal, which will be equipped with over 80 docking platforms and other support facilities, is expected to come into operation by the end of the year.

Seaplane is the preferred mode of transport between the main Velana International Airport and dozens of resorts, especially those located in outer atolls.

Photo: Maldivian Plane Spotters

Crossroads Maldives has hosted an educational visit for students from a local school.

On Thursday, 18 students from Muhyiddin School in the suburban town of Villimale visited the Maldives Discovery Centre and Marine Discovery Centre at the The Marina at Crossroads.

During the visit, the students had the opportunity to learn about Maldivian arts and crafts, the country’s unique geography and its marine life, as well as the conservation activities (coral propagation methods) carried out by the Marine Discovery Centre.

“This was a fruitful and fun-filled visit for the students, conducted to raise awareness about the Maldives’ culture and environment,” a statement issued by the Crossroads read.

“The Marina at Crossroads is committed to their vision of upholding values of sustainability regarding the environment, the local culture and local community.”

Apart from the coral propagation programme aimed at saving coral reefs, the Marine Discovery Centre hosts a laboratory where marine research and longitudinal studies are conducted.

Crossroads, the Maldives’ first and largest integrated tourist destination owned by Thailand’s leading developer Singha Estate, encompasses nine idyllic islands fringing the Emboodhoo Lagoon in the South Male Atoll. Two of the islands have been used for the first phase of the project, which opened in September.

The first island is home to the vibrant lifestyle district and heart of the mega project, The Marina @ Crossroads — an 11,000sqm retail and entertainment space. It offers an extensive array of attractions for visitors, including Hard Rock Cafe Maldives; Café del Mar, a 30-berth luxury marina; extensive retail, food and beverage outlets; a Maldives Discovery Centre supporting local arts and crafts; a Marine Discovery Centre; and a multi-purpose event venue and a junior beach club.

Crossroads is also home to two lifestyle hotels, operated by S Hotels & Resorts: SAii Lagoon Maldives, a Curio Collection by Hilton, and Hard Rock Hotel Maldives.

Jumeirah Vittaveli in Maldives is set to celebrate the festive season with unique experiences, live performances and culinary excellence curated for the whole family.

Those looking to escape to tropical shores this festive season will not only enjoy the sand beneath their feet at the luxury Jumeirah Vittaveli resort but are set to experience unique activities and entertainment in keeping with the most wonderful time of the year.

Situated in the South Male Atoll, the exclusive Maldivian isle with its 90 suites and villas will commence the festivities with the lighting of its Christmas Tree on December 22 before its in-house choir takes to the stage on the 24 and 25 for the resort’s annual carol singing tradition. In the past, Santa has made surprise appearances on a jet-ski and by catamaran, and it is hoped he will delight kids staying in the resort on December 25 once again.

Live performances and music will also get the resort into the swing of the festive season with everything from ballet to acrobatics and even a touch of magic. A resident five-piece band, saxophone soloist and DJ will entertain guests from December 24 to January 7 at venues across the island paradise. The party will continue from New Year’s Eve through to New Year’s Day at Samsara restaurant where a decadent limited-edition menu will be served to celebrate on both days.

The culinary team will be offering up fresh oysters, lobster, tiger prawns as well as suckling pig and a range of other delicacies.

At the stroke of midnight, the island’s lagoon will be lit up by a mesmerising firework show to ring in the New Year, whilst guests are invited to party beachside, with molecular cocktails and champagne. The theme of the NYE celebrations will be the Great Gatsby with guests invited to dress in roaring 20’s style or take advantage of the in-house tailor to create a Charleston style dress or dapper suit.

Jumeirah Vittaveli’s General Manager Abhijit Ghosh is already in the festive mood, stating: “Our team is excited to surprise our guests with this year’s festive celebrations – the Christmas tree will be a highlight onto itself, and the Great Gatsby style New Year’s festivities are the extravagant icing on top! It is a pure joy to see the enthusiasm of my team in making sure everything is ready for a joyous festive holiday and am looking forward to welcoming guests for this magical time of the year.”

Indeed, a special culinary flair is a must for the festive season, and Jumeirah Vittaveli will showcase a progressive journey from exclusive vintage drinks to festive nibbles and a lavish dinner buffet for the festive galas, planned for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Russian Orthodox Christmas on January 6. On other nights, a Louis Roederer crystal champagne dinner at Cuvée and an oyster and caviar night at Fenesse await guests who are eager to excite their palate.

For travellers looking to disconnect over the holiday season, visiting holistic practitioner Isaac Vidjrakou will be at Talise Spa at Jumeirah Vittaveli with a range of practical techniques to help encourage mindfulness and wellbeing in everyday life including masterclasses in breathing, meditation and yoga, as well as his signature Saki Massage.

For children, the Kuda Koli Kids Club will host a range of fun-filled festive activities to make it their most memorable holiday season yet. From Christmas t-shirt painting and a festive scavenger hunt to gingerbread house-making, there’s something on every day to keep young minds entertained.

Located a short 20-minute ride on board a luxurious motorised catamaran from the main Velana International Airport, Jumeirah Vittaveli offers unmatched diversity, subtle luxury and personalised exploration, whether you are seeking a romantic getaway or an exotic destination for your family.

The 3,500 square metre Royal Residence can accommodate 14 people, with prices from USD 35,000 per night. This lavish private retreat comprises private beach, dedicated restaurant, spa, two swimming pools, an overwater sundeck, jetty, chef, butler and golf buggy chauffeur. Guests can enjoy a private yacht transfer to the residence and spacious accommodation, which comprises the main Sanctuary, two Guest Villas and a double-storey guest house. An abundance of lounge and seating spaces provide the opportunity to spend quality time together. Each stay at the Royal Residence comes with a host of benefits such as daily evening canapes and champagne, personal fitness trainer as well as wellness consultant and 24-hour resident butler service. Wellness treatments can be enjoyed in the private Talise spa room inside the Sanctuary complex.

In addition to the Royal Residence, Jumeirah Vittaveli comprises 89 villas and suites each with their own swimming pool and direct access to the beach or lagoon. The private and spacious villas are available with one or two bedrooms making them the ideal accommodation for both families and couples.

Guests can enhance their romantic escape and stay at the picturesque Private Ocean Retreats, an indulgent hideaway with a loft-style bedroom upstairs, overwater hammocks, private infinity pool and full outdoor daybed. The villas are freestanding in the lagoon ensuring maximum privacy while only a two-minute ride on board the complimentary boat service from the main island. The Private Ocean Retreats are designed to offer all the resort services, from in-villa dining and yoga on a open air deck to an indulgent couple’s massage.

For the evenings, guests have the choice of a culinary journey through India in the resort’s signature restaurant Swarna, or an overwater fine dining experience featuring French cuisine at Fenesse.

The Talise spa at Jumeirah Vittaveli has been named Best Luxury Wellness Spa in Maldives by the World Travel Awards in 2015, 2016 and 2017. Treatments at the spa are inspired by concepts of light and space connecting with the purity and vibration of ingredients. The team produces their own island made 100 percent pure coconut oil, which is used in treatments and available as a take-home souvenir. The garden and overwater treatment rooms provide romantic spaces for couples who wish to enjoy blissful relaxation, while the spa menu also includes dedicated Mother-Daughter and Father-Son pampering sessions.

Jumeirah Vittaveli offers romantic escapes as well as a variety of land and water-based activities, including the destination’s first ice rink, a PADI Dive base, water sports centre, six restaurants and bars, and two lounges. An underground tasting room and a wine library complete the offering.

Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) has brought in a team of influencers from Turkey, as part of the official tourism promotion body’s series of familiarisation trips to promote Maldives.

Mehmet Kırali and Çiler Geçici, who have years of experience in photography and jointly have over a million followers, arrived in the Maldives on Tuesday.

During their week-long stay in Maldives, they will experience two resorts and a guesthouse: Kihaa Maldives, Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, and Kiha Beach guesthouse.

Their experiences will be shared via social media and the coverage is expected to create even more awareness about the Maldives in the Turkish travel market.

“With a joint count of over a million followers on social media, the influencers are expected to position Maldives as a holiday gem with new experiences for consumers in Turkey,” a statement issued by MMPRC read.

A total of 117,619 tourists visited the Maldives from Turkey in the first nine months of the year.

MMPRC regularly hosts a destination stand at EMITT, one of the leading platforms for Turkish and global travel trade.

“Activities are also carried out by MMPRC in small markets such as Turkey aside from rigorous campaigns in key traditional markets, all of which is pivotal in achieving the milestone of the 1.5 millionth tourist this year,” the statement read.

MMPRC kicked off the series of familiarisation trips in April, starting with a team of Indian journalists and bloggers. The official tourism promotion entity has so far brought in teams from the UK, China and South Korea, Australia, France and Belgium, as well as countries from Eastern Europe.

Tennis legends Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic are in Maldives.

Federer, who has been to the Maldives on several occasions, and wife Mirka Federer are holidaying at Cheval Blanc Randheli.

Accessible by a scenic 40-minute seaplane flight from the main Velana International Airport, Cheval Blanc Randheli is one-of-a-kind exclusive property from the luxury fashion group Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy (LVMH). Designed by Jean-Michel Gathy, the creative mind behind some of the world’s most stunning resorts including the Chedi Muscat and many Aman resorts, Randheli marries contemporary aesthetic with the traditional Maldivian craftsmanship.

The multi-award-winning resort offers 46 villas in three different categories to choose from; Island, Water or Garden. They have a variety of contemporary design elements, high doors and ceilings, outdoor areas for relaxation, pool terraces, a 12.5m long private swimming pool and lagoon-side pontoons.

The award-winning Owner’s Villa at Cheval Blanc Randheli sprawls across its one-hectare dedicated island, and is accessible from a private berth and jetty. This four-bedroom villa is the epitome of exclusive privacy with unique facilities including its own spa, oversized 25-metre long outdoor pool, pristine beaches and exotic gardens.

The resort’s award-winning Le 1947 fine dining restaurant offers an exceptional nine-course culinary experience, which pays tribute to French cuisine, interpreted with delicacy and creativity in a Maldivian setting.

The Cheval Blanc Spa offers exclusive Guerlain treatments in special treatment villas, whilst the Hair Spa by Leonor Greyl doubles as a beauty studio and barber shop. For guests with children, there is a Le Carrousel Kids Club and Le Paddock Teens Club on the premises to keep them occupied.

Federer, a Swiss professional tennis player, is ranked world No. 3 in men’s singles tennis by the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP). He has won 20 Grand Slam singles titles — the most in history by a male player — and has held the world No. 1 spot in the ATP rankings for a record total of 310 weeks (including a record 237 consecutive weeks) and was the year-end No. 1 five times, including four consecutive.

Meanwhile, Serbian professional tennis player Djokovic is spending a family vacation at One&Only Reethi Rath.

Set on one of the largest islands in North Male Atoll, the all-villa ultra-luxury One&Only Reethi Rah resort offers an unparalleled array of luxurious options to create an unforgettable holiday. Sleek and spectacular, with unprecedented privacy, One&Only Reethi Rah inspires extraordinary journeys for the soul. From extensive outdoor adventure options, including snorkelling and diving in the exotic underwater world, to the mesmerising One&Only Spa, guests are spoilt for choice.

The resort offers 122 thatch-roofed villas and a wide range of culinary experiences, including the Botanica restaurant, which offers the ultimate in organic garden-to-fork cuisine, and Rabarbaro, which offers genuine Italian fare, as well as a superfoods breakfast menu.

Guests at One&Only Reethi Rah can also enjoy an array of spa experiences, including private sunrise yoga classes on a secluded sandbank, a ‘Twilight Spa Rendezvous’ massage experience under the stars, ‘foot rehab’ – a concept created by the resident yoga instructor and the Bastien Gonzalez therapist which combines yoga and foot massage, Barber+Blade – a men’s grooming and shaving studio and a Spa Courtyard featuring a vitality pool, outdoor sauna and steam room.

Djokovic is currently ranked world No. 2 in men’s singles tennis by ATP.

Djokovic has won 16 Grand Slam singles titles, five ATP Finals titles, 34 ATP Tour Masters 1000 titles, 13 ATP Tour 500 titles, and has held the No. 1 spot in the ATP rankings for 275 weeks. In majors, he has won a record seven Australian Open titles, five Wimbledon titles, three US Open titles, and one French Open title. By winning the 2016 French Open, he became the eighth player in history to achieve the Career Grand Slam and the third man to hold all four major titles at once, the first since Rod Laver in 1969 and the first ever to do so on three different surfaces.[8] He is the only male player to have won all nine of the Masters 1000 tournaments. In addition, Djokovic won one Davis Cup title with the Serbian Davis Cup team.

Maldives is amongst the most sought after destinations by high profile personalities and celebrity travellers from around the world.

Oscar-winning actor Leonardo DiCaprio and American TV personality Paris Hilton have partied in the Maldives. The likes of English singer and television presenter Rochelle Humes and her husband Marvin, and British TV personality Billie Faiers have all declared the Maldives as their favourite part of the world for a relaxing getaway. Another British singer Perrie Edwards and English actress Millie Mackintosh have also fell in love with the white sands, turquoise waters and the blue skies of the Maldives.

Hollywood actress Gal Gadot and Lindsay Lohan along with Bollywood personalities such as Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan, Alia Bhatt, Priyanka Chopra, Parineeti Chopra, the Bachchan family and Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi, as well as world-renowned music artists such as Robin Thicke and Justin Bieber have declared their love for the Maldives.

Sports personalities, including the likes of David Beckham, Carlos Tevez, Arjen Robben, Miroslav Klose, Franz Beckenbauer, Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima, Cristiano Ronaldo, Marcel Desailly and Mohamed Salah have also spent their hard-earned vacations in the tropical paradise.

Manta Air, the five-star experience in the skies of the Maldives, has announced plans to begin commercial flight operations to Kooddoo in Gaafu Alif atoll on December 1.

Manta Air will operate daily flights between the Maldives’ main Velana International Airport and Kooddoo Airport in Gaaf Alif atoll on a pre-published fixed schedule. This will provide customers with multiple connectivity options throughout the day and allow them to book their preferred flights well in advance of their travel dates.

“We are excited to announce the start of our services to a new destination. It has been a very exciting year for us. We have been able to achieve back-to-back milestones in a short amount of time in making your tropical journey an amazing one,” Mohamed Khaleel, CEO of Manta Air, was quoted in a statement, as saying.

“Our promise to all passengers flying to Kooddoo is that we will change your flying experience by making flying more mantastic, enjoyable and effortless for everyone.”

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

The airport was upgraded in 2017. It now features a Code C runway measuring 1,800 metres in length, and is able to accommodate Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 aircrafts as well as all categories of private jets.

The airport serves several resorts in the region, including Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort, located on the same island. Other resorts in the region include Pullman Maldives Maamutaa, The Residence Maldives, Amari Havodda Maldives and Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort.

Tickets to Kooddoo are now available for purchase online from Manta Air’s official website and through authorised passenger sales agents.

The arrival of Manta Air has been a game changer in the domestic aviation industry, removing the fears of flight uncertainty for passengers flying in the Maldives, and setting new standards in service excellence along the way with pre-published schedules and a tailored approach to provide an amazing experience to all passengers.

The airline currently utilises three brand new ATR 72-600 aircraft to operate domestic flights to Dhaalu Airport, located on the island of Kudahuvadhoo in Dhaalu atoll, and Dharavandhoo Airport, located on the island of Dharavandhoo in Baa atoll, from the Velana International Airport.

Manta Air had early this month launched the first scheduled seaplane service in the Maldives, bringing another revolutionary experience to the skies of Maldives.

The airline had brought in six DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft, with another four set to join its seaplane by year-end.

Celebrate festive season at LUX* North Male Atoll Resort & Villas, where every corner of the island will be lit up with festive fairy lights, and the iconic rooftops of the majestic penthouse villas will be decorated with surprises on Christmas Day.

The festive programme, filled with sparkling celebrations, includes castaway sand bank picnic excursions, lavish gala dinners and unique workshops to add that extra layer of fun to your stay.

Don’t miss the Peruvian-Japanese signature restaurant INTI, the juicy premium steaks at the pop-up steakhouse at the resort’s beach club Beach Rouge or Middle Eastern theme nights at the international restaurant Glow.

To top up the celebrations, a grand masquerade ball with a special performance by Artsvik, famous for her performance at Eurovision Song Contest 2017, will ring in the new year.

LUX* North Male Atoll is an intimate resort offering a visual feast of nautical forms and tones. It is a next-level resort that sweeps away the thatched-roofed Maldivian footprint of old with a dazzling paradise of penthouse villas and spectacularly designed spaces to play, relax and retreat.

Harnessing the fresh vision of Singapore design house Miaja, each of the 67 double storey residences and rooftop features a private pool blending superyacht panache with a vibrant South Beach pulse with four elegant eateries and two bars. For the first time in the Maldives, each residence is crowned with a magnificent private rooftop relaxing area.

There’s a wealth of ways to relax or raise your game, and the invitations to adventure are endless. Guests will find two swimming pools, a translucent overwater LUX* ME Spa, world-renowned diving, high adrenaline water sports, private yacht voyages, tennis and beach volleyball courts.

A uniquely exclusive paradise retreat — where breezy island living meets jet-set chic — LUX* North Male Atoll is luxury beyond boundaries.

Festive Offer: Book your stay by December 31 and receive 15 per cent reduced rate applicable on one-bedroom Water Villas and one-bedroom Deluxe Water Villas. To learn more, please visit www.luxnorthmaleatoll.com or contact the reservations team at stay@luxnorthmale.com or +960 668 2600.

Maldives has participated in the Thai Silk Fashion Week and Grand Fashion Extravaganza.

The Maldivian embassy in Thailand facilitated the Maldives’ participation at the Thai Silk Fashion Week, held from November 18-21, and the Grand Fashion Extravaganza, held on November 23.

“This is a great initiative and for the first time Maldives made a mark in integrating Maldivian culture and fashion at the 9th Celebration of Silk: Thai Silk Road to the World 2019,” a statement issued by official tourism promotion body Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) read.

“MMPRCs strategy to market the Maldives as a tourist destination worldwide in 2020 will include reaching to potential niche segments.”

Popular local fashion designers Moonisa ‘Mooni’ Luthufee and Asiyath Shimla showcased their designs, inspired by the traditional Maldivian dresses. The dresses were tailored using Thai Silk.

“This was a great opportunity to promote the culture and tourism of the Maldives on an international platform,” MMPRC said.

Thirty-one ambassadors from 71 countries showcased their designs at the Grand Fashion Extravaganza. Deputy ambassador of Maldives to Thailand Huda Shareef presented the Maldivian designs.

During the event, the natural beauty of Maldives was showcased through destination videos on the main screen. Promotional materials such as information brochures were also distributed.

Local and international media covered the event.

The project celebrating Thai silk, called “Celebration of Silk – Thai Silk Road to the World”, is organised in honour of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother. This is the 9th annual celebration of Silk.

Since 2010, the Thai Tourist Assistance Foundation, in collaboration with the diplomatic corps in Bangkok, has organised the Celebration of Silk project to exhibit traditional and modern Thai silk and designs.

Thailand is one of the top markets amongst South East Asian countries, with promising growth in tourist arrivals to the Maldives. With over 25,334 arrivals by October end, Thailand accounts for 14 per cent of the total tourist arrivals to the Maldives.

Celebrated cross-medium sculptor Scott Chaseling is set to take up an exclusive artistic residency at Soneva Art and Glass Studio in Maldives.

With a collection displayed in some of the world’s most prestigious institutions, including Japan’s 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and Germany’s Museum Kunst Palast, Dusseldorf, Chaseling’s work examines the notions of mobility, transition, and liminality – the ‘non-place’, positioned at the threshold between things.

During his Soneva residency from December 1-22, Chaseling will be creating his unique and thought-provoking works of art from recycled glass bottles – with these one-of-a-kind pieces available for guests to purchase.

A multi-award-winning artist, Scott Chaseling’s career spans two decades and has been inspired in part by his own nomadic existence – born in Australia, he has lived and worked as an artist in Germany, France, Japan, and the US.

While his earlier works focused on this personal narrative, Chaseling’s later collections have examined the environment and the impact of materials. His recent work has drawn upon his travels on the Camino de Santiago and kayaking the River Murray, where he made sculptures from the detritus he collected along the way.

His many accolades include the 2017 Hindmarsh Glass Prize, the 2004 Ranamok Glass Prize and the 2002 Bavarian State Prize Gold Medal.

Located at Soneva Fushi, Soneva’s world-leading resort in the Baa Atoll, the Soneva Art and Glass Studio opened in August 2015 and is the Maldives’ first and only hot glass studio. Hosting some of the world’s top glass artists, guests can watch the experts in action, commission custom artworks or even have a go at learning the age-old art of glassblowing for themselves to create a masterpiece with the experienced glass-working team.

An estimated five tonnes of glass waste is produced in the Baa Atoll alone each month, with resorts typically crushing waste bottles and selling this on to recycling companies or, worse, dumping the waste directly into the sea.

In line with Soneva’s eco-conscious philosophy, which aims to have minimal impact on the natural world, Soneva Art and Glass Studio creates beauty from this waste. Waste glass is collected from Soneva properties and other resorts across the Maldives, melted in the state-of-the-art furnace, then upcycled into an array of stunning glassware and artworks that are used across Soneva’s restaurants and villas, or displayed for sale at the Soneva Art and Glass Studio.

Previous glass artists in residence at Soneva Art and Glass include Lino Tagliapietra Sunny Wang, Clifford Rainey and Howard Ben Tré.

In 1995, the award-winning luxury resort Soneva Fushi set the standard for all desert island barefoot luxury hideaways in the Maldives. Located in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Soneva Fushi pairs Robinson Crusoe fantasy with intelligent luxury.

Stay in one of the 63 private villas, ranging in size from one to nine bedrooms. Each comes with their own stretch of beach, most have their own pools, and are hidden among dense foliage within touching distance of a pristine coral reef. Intuitive service is provided by Mr./Ms. Friday butlers.

Highlights include the open-air Cinema Paradiso, exploring the cosmos at the high-tech Observatory, the home-made chocolate and ice cream rooms, five hundred wines to choose from, nine different restaurants both on the island itself and at Out of the Blue, the recently completed two-storey overwater structure and countless destination dining options.

Soneva launched its floating villa concept, Soneva in Aqua, a luxury two-cabin yacht that sets sail from Soneva Fushi. Explore the treasure trove that is the children’s Den, that comes with a Lego room, dress up room, two pools, a water slide and more. There is a multi-purpose facility that encompasses the Maldives’ only hot glass studio, the glass gallery, and boutique where guests can learn the art of glassblowing.

If the experiences are magical, the philosophy is simple: No news, no shoes. No pretensions either.

Manta Air on Thursday inaugurated its newest domestic route, treating passengers to the game-changing airline’s signature service as they travelled to the idyllic atoll of Gaafu Alif in the south.

Top officials from Manta Air, together with media and other invitees, travelled to the island of Kooddoo Thursday afternoon for a special cake-cutting ceremony at the Kooddoo Airport.

Mohamed Ali Janah, the local partner of the airport developer Bonvests Holdings Ltd, officiated the ceremony. He highlighted the impact Manta Air has had on the domestic aviation industry and assured his full support to the airline in further expanding its operations to Kooddoo Airport.

“This is my first experience with Manta Air, and I must say I’ve never seen such impeccable service on a domestic flight before,” Janah said.

Janah stressed that Gaafu Alif atoll is one of the most ideal destinations in the Maldives. More resorts are being developed in Gaafu Alif, with the total bed number in the atoll expected to increase to some 2,000 from 1,200 over the next three years, he added.

Manta Air, the five-star experience in the skies of the Maldives, will begin commercial flight operations to Kooddoo on December 1.

Manta Air will operate a twice daily service between the Maldives’ main Velana International Airport and Kooddoo Airport on a pre-published fixed schedule. This will provide customers with multiple connectivity options throughout the day and allow them to book their preferred flights well in advance of their travel dates.

“Our promise to all passengers flying to Kooddoo is that we will change your flying experience by making flying more enjoyable and effortless for everyone,” Mohamed Khaleel, CEO of Manta Air, told the attendees at Thursday’s ceremony.

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

The airport was upgraded in 2017. It now features a Code C runway measuring 1,800 metres in length, and is able to accommodate Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 aircrafts as well as all categories of private jets.

The airport serves several resorts in the region, including Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort, located on the same island. Other resorts in the region include Pullman Maldives Maamutaa, The Residence Maldives, Amari Havodda Maldives and Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort.

Tickets to Kooddoo are now available for purchase online from Manta Air’s official website and through authorised passenger sales agents.

The arrival of Manta Air has been a game changer in the domestic aviation industry, removing the fears of flight uncertainty for passengers flying in the Maldives, and setting new standards in service excellence along the way with pre-published schedules and a tailored approach to provide an amazing experience to all passengers.

The airline currently utilises three brand new ATR 72-600 aircraft to operate domestic flights to Dhaalu Airport, located on the island of Kudahuvadhoo in Dhaalu atoll, and Dharavandhoo Airport, located on the island of Dharavandhoo in Baa atoll, from the Velana International Airport.

Manta Air had early this month launched the first scheduled seaplane service in the Maldives, bringing another revolutionary experience to the skies of Maldives.

The airline had brought in six DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft, with another four set to join its seaplane by year-end.

The story of a small island, continues this year with another chapter celebrating the festive season, embracing the Maldivian culture and history.

Milaidhoo Island embodies the culture, spirit and heritage of this island nation whilst reflecting the true contemporary Maldives. This year’s festive season will showcase the roots behind the story of this small island and connect all that guests can experience in the resort with Maldivian culture and history.

Throughout the festive season, artefacts and traditional tools will be on display, transforming dedicated areas into a small Maldivian village or showcasing relicts from the olden days. Guests are invited to experience Maldivian customs as they were hundreds of years ago and are welcome to discuss these with locals over afternoon tea or pre-dinner drinks.

The cultural experience will be completed with a cultural show, with an entire afternoon dedicated to provide space and time to get in touch with Maldivian culture.

Guests can observe and try the skill of coconut husking, crafting beautiful lacquer art, getting closer to the almost lost tradition of ‘Dhiyaa Hakuru’ (a natural syrup), which is a task of the ‘Toddy Tapper’. As well as traditional clothing and the art of how to wear a simple sarong or a beautiful Libaas, guests will get to know the various fashions for different occasions.

The culinary routes of the Maldives can be explored and tasted, by learning how to make and cook traditional ‘short eats’ and their recipes. Taste buds will be triggered and tested with traditional local drinks and flavours as well as delighted with traditional festive dining.

Festive cocktail receptions and dining events will please every festive aficionado as well as those who come to the island, for a luxury escape from the seasonal stress and winter blues, culminating in a sparkling New Year’s Eve with a glowing display of fireworks in the starry sky.

Maldivian-owned Milaidhoo Island Maldives opened in November 2016 and is proudly rooted in local island traditions, curating a bespoke selection of experiences to showcase the destination.

Set over 13 acres in the Baa atoll’s beautiful UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, each of Milaidhoo’ s 50 private villas has been designed by a Maldivian architect with thatched-roof, spacious interiors, generous private pools , and are serviced by dedicated Island Hosts.

The villas are just a short, barefoot stroll away to three world-class restaurants, incredible water sports, fitness centre, spa, yoga and magnificent diving.

A 35-minute seaplane flight from Maldives International Airport, Milaidhoo is a member of The Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

Bank of Maldives (BML) and American Express have renewed their partnership for another year to promote the Maldives as a leading international tourist destination.

At a ceremony held at Kurumba Maldives Thursday evening, planning minister Mohamed Aslam inaugurated the second edition of the Experience Maldives campaign.

The campaign, first launched in 2017, aims to promote the Maldives as an international tourist destination by offering unique, authentic experiences for Amex Cardmembers across the globe.

“We are delighted to partner with Amex for the second time to promote Maldives to Amex Cardmembers across the globe, and we are grateful for the strong support extended by all the stakeholders,” BML CEO Tim Sawyer said, during the launching ceremony.

Through the campaign, Amex Cardmembers can avail special privileges and discount offers at a number of participating resorts, guesthouses and merchants across the country.

At least 26 resorts in the Maldives have participated in the year-long campaign, endorsed by the official tourism promotion body Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) and the largest industry organisation Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI).

The destination marketing campaign by the Maldives’ largest bank and Amex comes days after the country welcomed the 1.5 millionth tourist of the year — a new record in tourist arrivals.

Following the achievement, government had announced an ambitious target of attracting at least two million tourists to the popular Indian Ocean holiday destination in 2020.

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 new government aims to attract 2.5 million tourist arrivals per year by the end of its first five-year term in 2023.

To achieve this target, 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 — up from the MVR 104.2 million (USD 6.7 million) in 2019, and MVR 34.73 million (USD 2.2 million) each in 2018 and 2017.

The parliament is currently reviewing the budget.

The 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.

Komandoo Maldives has enhanced its all-inclusive packages.

Komandoo’s all-inclusive packages are known to offer excellent value for money and the resort has recently added even further benefits, including dining at Aqua restaurant and discounted spa treatments, ensuring that you holiday in the Maldives is as hassle-free and indulgent as it gets.

The All-Inclusive Plus package now comes with:

• Full board meal plan served at Falhu restaurant
• One a la carte dinner at Aqua restaurant for every five-night stay
• Twenty per cent discount on Aqua dining a la carte menu
• Twenty per cent discount on selected spa treatments
• Unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages by the glass as specified
• Minibar alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and snacks as specified, replenished daily
• Demi bottle of Champagne
• Complimentary sunset cruise
• Local island excursion
• Group snorkelling and windsurfing lessons
• Complimentary group yoga classes

The All-Inclusive Gold package comes with all the benefits of the All-Inclusive Plus package plus more, including:

• Snack menu at Kandu Bar
• A la carte dinners at Aqua restaurant
• One romantic candlelight dinner on the beach
• Nespresso coffee capsules
• Wine -red, white and rosé from the wine fridge
• One spa treatment as specified
• One introduction dive (or introduction/fun dive for certified divers)
• Free use of non-motorised water sports
• Complimentary use of snorkelling equipment
• One sailing excursion
• Laundry services as specified
• Complimentary use of Komandoo’s TMA lounge

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.

Mandara Spa has opened a new spa facility at Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, marking the brand’s 14th spa in the island nation.

The stunning Mandara Spa at Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives brings a touch of Bali in an overwater villa setting. It is the resort’s focal point, supported by a service style that considers the guests’ need for escape and unobtrusive delivery and ambience, in an incredibly picturesque ocean backdrop setting.

Mandara Spa is comprised of four double treatments rooms, two single rooms with indoor showers, and a manicure and pedicure area.

The spa menu is created to showcase the exclusive nature of the spa and to offer guests an outstanding spa experience. It combines traditional Asian favourites with spa therapies from the luxury British skincare brand ELEMIS that reflect the ocean and nature theme. Signature body massages and multi-treatment packages, complemented by result-driven facials, are intended to restore, transform and allow guests to transcend in the moment.

The Spa Boutique offers a beautiful range of products and accessories from Mandara Spa and ELEMIS, allowing guests to continue their spa experience at home.

“We are very pleased to launch our 14th spa in the Maldives and excited about our continued collaboration with Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts at this beautiful resort,” Trent Munday, Senior Vice President – International at Mandara Spa Asia, was quoted in a statement, as saying.

Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives is located on the island of Aarahveli in Vaavu atoll, a 25-minute scenic seaplane journey from the Maldives main Velana International Airport. The recently-opened five-star deluxe resort features 72 overwater villas and 20 beach villas in sleek Italian design elements, with an array of unique dining and recreational facilities, including a swimmable lagoon surrounding the island with an abundance of marine-life.

On the advent of fall, it is the time to quickly finalise the last hideaway for the year and what better than the sunny paradise, can be an option. At The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, the team is gearing up to host an exhilarating festive season ahead with joyful celebrations.

Christmas celebrations

What better can you think of this holiday season than creating some alluring memories in middle of the sunny sky and the warm, turquoise waters in paradise?

From memorable stays, extravagant holiday dining and rejuvenating spa experiences to exciting dives and witnessing the rich marine life, the resort takes care of your every need. The inspiring festive events and menus at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi offer traditional favourites alongside innovative treats.

Join the resort’s team as they welcome Santa on the island with a bag of special gifts for the children. Dance to the beats of the in-house DJ and feast on Christmas special treats, with chefs serving up dishes accompanied by local flavours that bring a taste of authenticity.

New Year

Such a special time of year deserves a special place to savour it, so this year give the gift of paradise and indulge in all that The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives has to offer.

A collection of delectable dining experiences, fun filled activities, exquisite diving options and holistic wellness packages await guests. The culinary team is pulling out all the stops to create a dazzling festive feast this New Year’s Eve, whilst the recreation team is preparing to make this year end memorable for the little ones.

Be the lucky one!

To add an extra touch of excitement, all guests will have the opportunity to enter the resort’s New Year Prize Draw on December 31. The lucky winner can win a complimentary stay at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi.

Located amongst the unspoiled islands of Noonu atoll, a scenic 45-minute seaplane journey away from Male, The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is where nature’s simplicity and beauty is in abundance – it’s a world away from the everyday.

The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi features 221 luxury oceanfront villas, including 70 overwater bungalows, inspired by traditional Maldivian architecture. All rooms are equipped with the latest in-room amenities, including 32” flat-screen TV and Bose home theatre systems.

In addition to 15 restaurants and bar choices, the resort’s unrivalled range of leisure activities and excursions include a fully-equipped PADI and SSI dive facility and a water sports centre, tennis and badminton courts, kids club and multiple swimming pools. The tropical spa comprises 20 treatments rooms, each dedicated to a different Eastern or Western wellness philosophy for a wide range of health, relaxation and beauty options.

Guests at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi will enjoy luxurious relaxation, while immersing themselves in the rich culture and heritage of the Maldives. Whatever kind of magical getaway guests are looking for, The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi has it all!

The Maldives’ much-loved eco-resort Gili Lankanfushi reopened Sunday, following an inspired renovation of the resort.

Honouring its laid-back philosophy and rustic chic aesthetic, the island remains an intimate and sustainable paradise for the barefoot luxury traveller, with a new design concept and wellness programmes to further enrich the soulful guest experience.

Originally opened in 2012, Gili Lankanfushi was previously voted ‘Best Hotel in the World’ by TripAdvisor for its uniquely laidback air and impeccable service ethic. 

Located in the languid waters of the North Male Atoll, just a 20-minute speedboat ride from the Velana International Airport, it is the ultimate place to get away from the world. 

The 45 refurbished villas offer open-air living spaces, roof terraces and private decks with direct access to the lagoon below, and there is the addition of new private pools to the enhanced Residence and Villa suites for extra seclusion. 

The Family Villas with Pools are a new addition to the resort featuring two en suite bedrooms, a private swimming pool for children to splash in the sunshine, a rooftop terrace for further space to dine and play, as well as a living room situated over the lagoon and accessed from a safe walkway. 

The vast 1,700m2 Private Reserve – the largest overwater villa in the world – is located 500m from the main island and offers four vast bedrooms in addition to a private open-air cinema, spoiling spa, air-conditioned gymnasium, infinity pool and two-storey waterslide, directly into the lagoon.

New interior design

The warm, neutral colour palette is inspired by the island’s natural surroundings for a calming effect, whilst locally sourced turquoise fabrics add flashes of colour to the new design. 

Sustainability is at the heart of the island’s vision, and every piece of furniture in the new villas and living areas has been custom made by skilled craftsman using upcycled materials. The bed frames have been made from recycled teakwood, and lampshades handwoven with recycled wire mesh twist to feature fish and sea turtles from the surrounding sea. 

The coffee tables have been engraved with stars to reflect the clear night sky and hanging lamps crafted from bamboo prawn catcher baskets. Rooftop daybeds have been made up with luxurious linens so guests have the option of an atmospheric night sleep beneath the stars, and cushion fabrics custom print with coral patterns found on the reefs below. 

Each villa has a dedicated butler service catering to guests’ every wish.

New guest experiences

A paradise for enriching spa sessions at the serene Meera Spa and educational exploration with the team of deeply knowledgeable experts at the Marine Biology Shack, Gili Lankanfushi marks the reopening of resort with a series of new educational and active wellness programmes that combine the two. 

Holistic Healing is a five-night programme for those seeking a soulful spa experience that nurtures the body and teaches natural beauty methods including: a one-on-one consultation on arrival, daily yoga classes, guided breath-work sessions, bespoke treatments and an essential oil making workshop to create remedies to take home. 

Dive & Discover is a five-night programme for budding divers with a passion for marine conservation including: daily diving expeditions, guided night time snorkelling, a coral planting experience with a marine biologist to support The Coral Lines Project and a deep muscle massage to rejuvenate at the spa. 

Surf & Spa is a four-night programme for the eco-conscious sportsman in search of active exploration: days will start with sunrise yoga followed by surf lessons on the lagoon and guided tours to nearby wake break where guests can be accompanied by a resident marine biologist to learn about local marine life. 

To ease aching muscles, reflexology is available at the spa.

Following days of exploring and relaxing, guests will enjoy fresh and sustainably sourced dishes at the Kashiveli where the surrounding waters form the basis of the resort’s modern Maldivian fusion cuisine served from new live cooking stations. 

Executive Chef Hari Govindaraj is responsible for growing organic herbs, vegetables and fruits in the organic Gili garden and will offer guests one-on-one classes to learn the art of cooking with seasonal produce, providing hand-written recipes for guests to take home as a memory of their stay.

Morteza Capital has launched its debut hotel investment fund, Maldives Hospitality Income Fund I (MHIF I), the first investment fund of its kind offered in the Maldives.

In a statement, Morteza Capital said MHIF I will focus primarily on mezzanine financing opportunities, such as expansion and refurbishment of operating hotels, last-mile financing for hotel developments, and distressed credit opportunities.

The fund will provide an unprecedented opportunity for both individual and institutional investors to participate in hotel credit investments, which are considered lower risk than pure equity investments, it added.

“Until now, investors have only had the opportunity to participate in the Maldivian hospitality sector through equity investments, which provide little to no protection against downside risk,” Ghaly Murthala, Managing Director of Morteza Capital, was quoted in the statement, as saying.

“We are now inviting investors to participate through credit investments, which offer a higher level of security, with the assurance that their investments will be overseen by an experienced local and international investment team. As a specialised investor, our investments will also benefit from our hospitality expertise, providing a more hands-on management approach to restructuring and enhancing value of the asset.”

MHIF I is regulated by the Capital Market Development Authority in the Maldives, and will also be offered in selected overseas jurisdictions.

Founded in the UK in 2015, Morteza Capital is a boutique investment advisory and management firm specialising in hotel and leisure investments in emerging destinations. It is led by a team of Maldivian and international investment professionals with backgrounds in hotel and real estate investment, banking and investment management.

The firm says it aims to provide investors with returns that are difficult to achieve in core markets by matching unique opportunities with excellence in execution. Its scope of services include investment management and advisory services, development and project management services, and asset management and investor representation.

GoAir on Sunday resumed its flight operations to the Maldives, as part of the Indian budget carrier’s winter schedule.

GoAir’s first flight this season landed at the Maldives’ main Velana International Airport Sunday morning.

Tourism minister Ali Waheed, Indian ambassador to the Maldives Sunjay Sudhir and top officials of the airport operator Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) welcomed the crew and passengers.

Until January 31, 2020, GoAir will operate direct flights to Male five days a week from Mumbai, New Delhi and Bengaluru.

• Mumbai – Male – Mumbai: GoAir’s direct flight G8 23 will depart from Mumbai at 9am and arrive in Male at 11.15am, every Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday. On its return journey, flight G8 24 will leave Male every Wednesday and Sunday at 12.10pm and on Thursday it will leave at 12.20pm to arrive in Mumbai at 3.40pm.
• Delhi – Male – Delhi: Flight G8 33 will take off from Delhii at 10.35am and arrive in Male at 2.15pm, and flight G8 34 depart from Male at 3.15pm and arrive in Delhi at 7.45pm on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
• Bangalore – Male – Bangalore: Flight G8 will take off from Bangalore at 1.10pm and arrive in Male at 2.40pm, and on its return journey flight G8 44 will leave Male at 3.45pm and reach Bangalore at 6.10pm every Wednesday and Sunday.

“The Maldivian capital known for its scenic white sandy beaches, azure sea waters and exotic, colourful coral reefs is a popular tourist destination. Malé is the throbbing, mercantile heart of Maldives. Yet its laid-back lifestyle on scenic beaches with fresh produce from the island is a hot favourite for honeymooners as well as families looking for a relaxing get-away destination,” a statement issued by GoAir read.

“Ahead of the upcoming holiday season the new flights connecting Male to Mumbai, New Delhi and Bangalore will aid travellers to enjoy all that this beautiful tropical island has to offer.”

GoAir operated flights to the Maldives during the last winter season.

Flagship carriers of the Maldives and India currently operate scheduled flights to and from major cities, including Bangalore, Trivandrum and Chennai. 

Low-cost Indian airline SpiceJet operates daily direct connections between Kochi and Male as well as Trivandrum and Male. Another budget carrier, IndiGo also operate daily non-stop flights between Male and Kochi, as well as five weekly service from Mumbai and twice weekly from Bangalore.

GoAir’s winter service to the Maldives — to and from three of the major business and tourism hubs in India — is expected to help both the countries, and further boost tourist arrivals to the Maldives from India, which has become a major source market for the Maldives’ tourism industry.

Official figures show that 90,474 tourists arrived in Maldives from its closest neighbour last year, a nine per cent increase from the 83,019 Indian travellers that chose the Maldives in 2017.

That growth has continued this year as well, as the number of Indian tourists that visited the Maldives recorded a 105.1 per cent increase in the first nine months of the year to reach 115,507.

Maldives has also become a sought after destination by Bollywood stars.

Famous Bollywood stars who have vacationed in the Maldives include Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan, Alia Bhatt, Priyanka Chopra, Parineeti Chopra, the Bachchan family, Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi, and Sonakshi Sinha.

A new airport developed in a proposed ultra-luxury tourism zone in the northern part of Maldives opened Sunday.

The first commercial flight, operated by flagship carrier Maldivian, landed at Maafaru International Airport Sunday morning.

The official opening ceremony took place in the afternoon. Planning minister Mohamed Aslam officiated the ceremony.

Maldivian will operate a daily service between the main Velana International Airport and Maafaru International Airport, built on land reclaimed from the lagoon of the island of Maafaru in Noonu atoll.

The flagship carrier’s parent company Island Aviation Services Limited (IAS) will manage the airport.

Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) had extended a grant of USD 60 million for the project, which involved developing a 2.2-kilometre runway along with state-of-the-art facilities to cater international flight operations and private jets.

The international airport is part of a joint Maldives-UAE project to develop Noonu atoll as an ultra-luxury tourism zone.

Noonu atoll is located about 180 kilometres north of capital Male, on the southern edge of the Maldives’ northernmost geographical atoll.

Existing high-end resorts in Noonu atoll include the Velaa Private Island, The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, Cheval Blanc Randheli and Soneva Jani. Several new resorts, including those by international hotel chains, are being developed in the atoll.

Over a million tourists from across the globe visit the Indian Ocean island nation every year to holiday in one of the 140 resorts and 450 plus guesthouses located in all corners of the country. The multi-billion dollar tourism industry, which is the country’s main economic activity, relies heavily on the domestic transport infrastructure, especially air travel.

Maldives, the most dispersed country on the planet with 1,192 islands spread over roughly 90,000 square kilometres, already has 13 airports, including three international airports. The government has contracted both local and international companies to develop additional domestic airports across the archipelago in a bid to boost tourism.

Government had earlier announced plans to open five new airports this year. However, only two — a domestic airport on the island of Kulhudhuffushi in Haa Dhaal atoll and Maafaru airport — opened so far.

Construction of airports on the islands of Funadhoo in Shaviyani atoll, Madivaru in Lhaviyani atoll and Maavarulu in Gaaf Dhaal atoll is nearing completion.

Maldives Marketing and Public Relation Corporation (MMPRC) has brought in a team of journalists from Turkey, as part of the official tourism promotion body’s series of familiarisation trips to promote Maldives.

The team comprises of journalists and editors from a number of popular Turkish publications such as Sabah, Daily Sabah, Yoldasin and Atlas magazine.

“They are a combination of media on conventional and digital platforms with some having a special focus on tourism. Atlas Magazine also plans on doing a report of 12-16 pages about the Maldives,” a statement issued by MMPRC read.

During their week-long visit to the Maldives, the Turkish journalists will stay at Kuramathi Maldives, Kurumba Maldives and Mirihi Island Resort, where they will explore the destination’s natural beauty, adventure and honeymoon experiences, as well as eco-tourism initiatives.

These experiences will be shared in their respective publications.

A total of 8,059 tourists visited the Maldives from Turkey in the first 10 months of the year.

MMPRC regularly hosts a destination stand at EMITT, one of the leading platforms for Turkish and global travel trade.

Last month, MMPRC brought in a team of influencers from Turkey.

MMPRC kicked off the series of familiarisation trips in April, starting with a team of Indian journalists and bloggers. The official tourism promotion entity has so far brought in teams from the UK, China and South Korea, Australia, France and Belgium, as well as countries from Eastern Europe.

This is the 21st familiarisation trip conducted by MMPRC this year.