Six Senses Laamu has appointed Dr Jitendra Varshney as Spa Director.

Dr Jitendra joined Six Senses Laamu as a wellness practitioner and spa manager in June 2015, and was promoted to the post of Spa Director in last June. In his new role, Dr Jitendra is overseeing the Six Senses Spa’s daily operations, and the integrated wellness and visiting practitioner programmes at the resort.

In an announcement, Six Senses Laamu described Dr Jitendra as a people-driven personality who adopts a holistic approach to wellness and believes in spending time with guests to help them understand the real meaning of balance and how to achieve it and leading them on the path of wellbeing.

According to the resort, Dr Jitendra is a highly motivated postgraduate in Ayurvedic medicine and certified Yoga and Reiki master, with extensive experience in both the hospitality and the health industry. Specialising in Ayurvedic and integrated wellness consultations, guest treatment plans and Reiki therapies, he spent the past 11 years in India managing spas and wellness centres such as Leo Juventa Medi Spa, Three Graces by Amatraa Spa and Ananda in the Himalayas, it added.

“We are very happy to have Dr J leading Six Senses Laamu Spa team. His commitment towards our core value of pioneering wellness along with his extensive experience and skills, he drives inspiration for our guests to lead a healthier lifestyle and at the same time offers them a unique spa experience,” Marteyne van Well, General Manager of Six Senses Laamu, was quoted in the announcement, as saying.

Six Senses Spa Laamu features four uniquely designed couple’s treatment nests, two secluded couple treatment champas plus two champas for Ayurveda and one for Thai massage. Along with the signature Six Senses treatments, locally inspired and Ayurvedic massages are also available. Guests can opt for wellness classes such as Mindfulness Meditation, Pranayama and Aerial Yoga or for tailor-made integrated wellness programmes.

Six Senses Laamu is the only resort located in the Laamu atoll, which lies in the southern part of the Maldives. Surrounded by the Indian Ocean, the resort prides itself on its commitment to sustainable operations and development as outlined by Agenda 21 and Green Globe Benchmarking.

At Six Senses Laamu, most of the villas and facilities are built overwater. However, beach villas and on-land dining is 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, a swimming pool with a sunken bar, 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.

Installation of sheet piles at the land reclaimed for a new runway at the Maldives main airport has begun, state airport operator Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has announced.

MACL Managing Director Adil Moosa told journalists last week that sheet piles were being installed at 3,300 metres of land reclaimed for the new runway. Compacting and levelling the reclaimed land was also underway, he added.

After compacting and levelling the land, foundation works will commence. Cement for the foundation layer will initially be laid 270 millimetres thick before being compacted to a 200-millimetre thick layer. It will be covered and levelled with four additional layers of cement.

The new 3,400 metre by 60 metre runway is funded by a USD 400 million loan from China EXIM Bank, with designing and construction handed over to Beijing Urban Construction Group (BUCG) of China. The runway is being built on land reclaimed from the lagoon of the airport island of Hulhule.

The new runway, which can accommodate world’s largest passenger airliner Airbus A380, will be operational by mid-2018.

The new runway is part of a USD800 million mega project to expand and upgrade the Maldives’ main gateway to cater to at least seven million passengers per annum. The project also involves building a brand new passenger terminal, a seaplane terminal, and other support facilities including a fuel farm that can store 45 million litres and a 120,000 tonne cargo facility.

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.

Milaidhoo Maldives has identified and named six new hawksbill turtles which are long-term residents of the reefs surrounding the island resort.

The newly identified hawksbill turtles have been named Crusty, Flori, Madhiri, Sam, Sirena and Swimerette.

Hawksbill turtles are located worldwide, and are easily distinguished from other sea turtles by their sharp curving beak and serrated edge to the rear of their shell. Like all sea turtles, they spend the first 20 or so years of their life in the open ocean feeding predominantly on jellyfish. Therefore, when they come to live in coral reef habitat, they change their diet and start feeding on sponges, algae, coral, and small crustaceans instead.

Hawksbill turtles play a key role in the coral reef ecosystem. There are few animals that eat the fast-growing sponges due to the toxins in their tissue; therefore they allow coral and other species to colonise and grow in the gaps they create. This maintains diversity throughout the reef ecosystem.

Hawksbill turtles are listed as Critically Endangered in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. This is partly due to their shell being used for thousands of years for decoration purposes, but in the 1900s their population was estimated to drop by 80 percent. As air breathing reptiles, turtles are at great risk of drowning in fishing gear. In addition to this, with jellyfish as their main food source in the open ocean, plastic pollution is a major problem.

They are protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), but much is still needed to conserve populations of hawksbill turtles.

Several efforts are being made throughout the Maldives to protect its turtle population. Many resorts have teamed up with the Olive Ridley Project, which runs a nationwide database that tracks the sightings of different species of turtles across the archipelago.

Located in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa atoll, Milaidhoo, the latest resort by pioneers of Maldives tourism Universal Resorts, can be reached by a 30-minute seaplane flight.

Perfect for nature lovers as its own coral reef, which encircles the island, is a protected area and noted as an outstanding snorkelling and diving site in its own right. The tiny beautiful island, abundant with tropical greenery, measures just 300 by 180m and is fringed by soft deep white sand beaches.

Milaidhoo offers 50 villas made using materials and fittings custom-made for Milaidhoo in a way that epitomises the true contemporary Maldives style. Standing on stilts over the lagoon are 30 spacious overwater villas (245 square metres) and hidden amongst the tropical greenery are 20 serene villas on the beach (290 square metres). All villas have large private freshwater swimming pools and an island host to attend to the guests’ every whim.

The Small Luxury Hotels of the World member resort offers three restaurants and two bars, with the signature restaurant built overwater and shaped like three traditional Maldivian sailing boats. It – unique in the Maldives – serves modern interpretation of island-influenced cuisine.

Leading local PR firm Maldives Getaways has announced the launching of Maldives Dive Expo, scheduled to take place as part of the second edition of the Travel Trade Maldives (TTM) in May 2018.

In a statement, Maldives Getaways said the expo would be held from May 2-3, 2018.

According to the firm, the expo is aimed at creating a world-class platform for industry players to better engage with each other and connect with suppliers and dive operators as well as with existing dive schools. More than 50 international media representatives and dive specialised operators, including manufacturers, travel companies and liveaboards, from around the world are expected to participate in the expo, it added.

In this invitation-only event, a Professional Divers Conference is also set to take place.

The first-ever Professional Divers Conference will witness diving professionals and potential stakeholders come together to discuss the future of dive tourism in the Maldives and establish the Maldives as a full-fledged diving destination. Attendees will include scuba, recreational, technical, commercial and military divers, marine biologists, technical instructors, underwater camera specialists, marine filmmakers, and explorers, while representatives from leading dive acknowledgement institutions such as PADI, IANTD, TDI, SSI and RAID are also set to participate in the conference.

“Places like Singapore already host the Asia Dive Expo. With the current growth in the tourism industry, there is a need for the Maldives to have a dive expo of its own. We believe that the Maldives Dive Expo would create immense networking opportunities,” Abdulla Nashaath, a Director at Maldives Getaways, was quoted as saying.

Known internationally as one of the world’s best scuba diving destinations, the Maldives has an abundance of dive sites with one thrilling dive opportunity after another. The islands of the Maldives have consistently warm waters with outstanding visibility throughout the year, and consist of exhilarating dive sites such as vibrant thilas, exciting channels, coral-filled overhangs and fascinating wrecks.

The Maldives Dive Expo, to be held as part the first and only international travel trade show in the Maldives TTM, complements Divemv, which is the only dedicated dive magazine in the Maldives. The magazine, developed solely for the purpose of promoting the Maldives as a dive destination, is published in English with a total of 3,000 copies printed and freely distributed to all interested parties across the globe, including suppliers, travel agents and other businesses.

Meanwhile, the second edition of TTM will take place from May 1-3, 2018.

The first edition of TTM concluded successfully on July 13, with business contracts worth over USD 1 billion discussed during the two-day travel trade show. More than 100 hoteliers held over 3,000 meetings with 150 agents and tour operators from across the globe.

Niyama Private Islands Maldives has announced its very own professional ‘Surf Dude’ Zach Zocher, as the resort positions itself as the premier luxury surfing destination in the Maldives.

Growing up in Cape Town, Zach started surfing at the age of 10 and soon represented his province in the South African Surfing Championships. Still a teenager, he immigrated to Australia with his parents and landed in the beautiful seaside town of Avoca.

“In Avoca I surfed every day and I loved the sense of adventure and exploration that surfing offered me. It is here that my passion became an obsession and my travels in search of perfect waves started,” said Zach.

Zach’s epic surf adventures have taken him to some of the world’s surf spots from Jeffery’s Bay in his home country of South Africa, to Trestles and Blacks Beach in California, to the eponymous Bells Beach in Australia and various breaks around the Mentawai Islands.

During a surf expedition in the Maldives, he discovered Niyama.

“Most of the surf spots in this area remain undiscovered, but at Niyama the secret is right in front of you. It’s the only luxury resort sporting surf-able waves that break directly onto the island,” said Zach.

“The resort offers adjoining twin islands, Chill and Play, and just off the edge of Play Island’s Surf Corner is Vodi surf point – a classic, powerful left hand ride that breaks onto the shore. Off to the West and just five minutes away by speedboat is Kasabu surf point at Kudahuvadhoo Corner – a superb right hander with barrelling sections. Head East for ten minutes to Hocus Pocus at Maeenboodhoo Corner for another barrelling right hander.”

Raving about the surf conditions, Zach continued to rave about the waves around Niyama and how they are relatively mellow and playful, but challenging at times and suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers, with some spots perfect for beginner coaching.

As the resort was gearing up to introduce a series of surf options and tailored services, Zach took the opportunity to offer his expertise on the spot. He then returned soon after as the head of surf operations at Niyama.

Float, Niyama’s water sports operator, offers an array of tailor-made surf programmes and services to suit every surfer.

“From beginner coaching courses to various surf pass options that offer on-demand boat transfers to surf points located away from the resort, I am on hand to coax first timers or use video analysis to help intermediate surfers get to the next level,” said Zach.

“The best thing about surfing at Niyama is the fact that the surf points are off the beaten track with uncrowded waves and high quality breaks.”

Zach also confessed that, despite having surfed some of the best spots around the globe, nothing compared to arguably the ultimate luxury surf experience offered at the resort – a private seaplane at surfers’ disposal to discover and surf secret spots.

“The seaplane allows surfers to discover untouched waves anywhere in the ocean, and swim back to the plane for the scenic short journey back to the resort,” said Zach.

“I am super excited about this opportunity and I cannot wait to explore and share the  secret surf spots of this stunning country with my fellow surfers.”

Accessible by a 40-minute seaplane flight from the main Velana International Airport, the blissful resort of Niyama Private Islands Maldives offers 86 studios and overwater pavilions spread across two islands, allowing guests to find comfort both indoors and outdoors. The luxury resort, located in the southern Dhaalu atoll, features endless dining options including Edge, an overwater restaurant only accessible by boat, and Tribal, a modern campfire dining fare complete with tiki torches.

Featuring a 24-hour spa, Niyama Private Islands Maldives is also home to the world’s first underwater club. In addition, guests seeking to explore the waters can pick their favourite water sport at Float, which offers PADI dive courses, or go sailing on traditional Maldivian wooden boats called Dhonis. There is even a marine biology lab for coral rehabilitation and education.

Thailand-based low-cost airline Thai AirAsia began its operations to the Maldives on Saturday.

Thai AirAsia’s maiden flight to the Maldives landed at the country’s main Velana International Airport Saturday morning.

In a statement, Maldives state-owned tourism promotion company Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) said Thai AirAsia will open doors for all kinds of visitors to the Maldives, including budget and luxury travellers.

“This is a huge milestone achieved to the tourism industry of Maldives and AirAsia which will change
the perspective of travellers which portrays Maldives as only a luxury destination,” the statement read.

Thai AirAsia operates a non-stop daily service from Don Mueang International Airport in Thai capital Bangkok to the Maldives main airport. A 180-seat Airbus A320 single-aisle aircraft with only economy class configuration is used for the service.

With the introduction of Thai AirAsia’s operations, the Male-Bangkok route will be served by three airlines, including the Maldives flagship carrier Maldivian and Bangkok Airways. Fares on the route are expected to see a significant reduction as Thai AirAsia has already offered a special introductory fare of USD 99.

Thai AirAsia is a joint venture of Malaysian low-fare airline AirAsia, which already flies to the Maldives, and Thailand’s Asia Aviation. It serves AirAsia’s regularly scheduled domestic and international flights from Bangkok and other cities in Thailand.

Bangkok has become a popular hub amongst Maldivian business travellers.

Thailand is also an emerging Asian source market for the Maldives tourism industry.

Official figures show that 16,451 tourists visited the Maldives from Thailand last year, a 3.4 percent rise from the year before. That growth has continued this year as well, with arrivals from Thailand increasing 18.9 percent in the first half of the year to reach 9,276 from 7,802 in the same period of last year.

Onyx Hospitality Group has named two new regional vice presidents of operations, with one tasked to oversee the management of the group’s property in the Maldives.

In a statement, the Thailand-based hospitality group said Pierre-Andre Pelletier has been promoted to the post of Regional Vice President of Operations for South Thailand, Vietnam and the Maldives. Previously the Vice President and Area General Manager for South Thailand, his expanded portfolio includes leadership responsibilities in the Maldives and Vietnam, it added.

The Swiss national first joined Onyx in 1993, and has served as General Manager of Amari Pattaya, Amari Watergate Bangkok and more recently the group’s flagship Amari Phuket, where he will continue to be based.

Onyx currently operates Amari Havodda Maldives and is preparing for the early 2018 opening of Ozo Hoi An in Vietnam.

Meanwhile, David Cumming has also been promoted to the Regional Vice President of Operations for Bangkok, Malaysia and Laos. In his expanded role, Cumming will support the company’s future growth in Malaysia, where Onyx has one newly-launched Amari and three additional hotels in the pipeline, and Laos, the location of three new Amari properties currently under development.

The hospitality veteran, with 25 years of experience under his belt, has been with the company since 2004. He was previously Vice President and Area General Manager for Bangkok, Vice President of Operational Development, and General Manager at Amari Pattaya and Amarai Watergate Bangkok.

He will continue to be based at Amari Watergate Bangkok, where the group’s global head office is located.

In the Maldives, Onyx runs the Amari Havodda Maldives resort.

Located in the southern Gaafu Dhaalu atoll, Amari Havodda Maldives is accessible by a 55-minute domestic flight to Kaadedhdhoo domestic airport from the main Velana International Airport, followed by 10-minute speedboat transfer to the island. The resort offers 48 Beach Villas, six Beach Garden Pool Villas, six Beach Pool Villas, 58 Overwater Villas and two Overwater Pool Villas.

Dining options include Amaya Food Gallery that serves a selection of Asian delights, Ember Robatayaki that serves grilled sea food and Pizza Kaage where guests can enjoy light meals and get takeaway pizzas. Iru Bar is a beach bar, whereas cocktails, drinks and snacks can be enjoyed at Thari Bar while the sun shines and beyond at the pool bar.

With its location popular for diving and snorkelling, Amari Havodda features a dive centre. The resort also offers an outdoor pool, a kids pool water sports facilities, a fitness centre, a beach volleyball court and a tennis court.

Photo: David Cumming (L) and Pierre-Andre Pelletier. PHOTO/ ONYX

Leading accounting firm Crowe Horwath Maldives has been appointed as the official auditors of South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2017.

According to SATA Secretariat, Crowe Horwath Maldives will conduct a comprehensive audit of the evaluations done by the panel of expert judges. A report will be presented at the gala ceremony to be held in October, it added.

More than 414 nominations from the Maldives, India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Nepal have been received for the 39 categories included in this year’s edition of SATA. Online voting is ongoing, and will complement the judging by a panel of experts.

SATA has recently announced the first batch of partners for this year’s edition, with Maldives Insider being named an official travel media partner.

Hospitality partners have also been assigned;  Champa Central Hotel in Maldives capital Male as the Hospitality Partner for the Maldives, The Chancery Pavilion in Indian IT hub of Bangalore as the Hospitality Partner for South India, Udman Hotels and Resorts by Ferns N Petals in Indian capital New Delhi as the Hospitality Partner for North India, Ramada Hotel in Sri Lankan capital Colombo as the Hospitality Partner for Sri Lanka and Hotel Mulberry in Nepalese capital Kathmandu as the Hospitality Partner for Nepal.

This year’s edition of SATA will take place in the Maldives in October. Organisers are exploring the possibility of hosting it at the southernmost Addu atoll.

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

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

The awards’ first edition, which wrapped up with a gala ceremony at the iconic Mount Lavinia Hotel in Sri Lanka, saw an overwhelming support with more than 260 nominations. Major travel media organisations, including Maldives Insider, Asian Traveller, Asian Geographic, Asian Diver and Floating Asia were appointed as media partners of SATA 2016.

Taj Burrow took out the twin fin division of the 2017 Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy on Saturday, as local talent Ismail ‘Kuda Issey’ Miglal beat former World Champion CJ Hobgood despite an eventual defeat.

On day two of the competition, Burrow was unstoppable in the pumping three-five foot clean waves on offer at Sultans as he moves closer to a spot in the overall final.

In the final, Burrow came up against form surfer Rob Machado in a thrilling match-up. After Machado knocked Burrow out in the semifinal of the single fin, Burrow had something to prove and was hungry for redemption. His early round loss in the same division last year looked like a distant memory as Burrow ripped his way to a winning two-wave combination of 16.67.

“I couldn’t believe how good the waves were today, I definitely wasn’t expecting it to be that good, we were pretty spoiled. Everyone was so fired up today, my heat with Ross was so sick, just a real see-saw then the final with Rob was just all time, I’m so worn out now,” Burrow said.

Burrow had his worst result in the twin fin division at the 2016 Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy and was keen to turn it around. Opting to surf on the same board he did last year, Burrow found a rhythm and possibly a new favourite weapon.

“Surfing in a final with Rob on a ‘twinnie’ is a pretty tough task. He is so good on these different boards and is surfing so well right now, it’s like he is still a teenager. It was super intense and I’m stoked to get one back on him. I haven’t surfed this board since last year, but I knew if I got a good one on it, that it’d go well. I loved it. It’s just so sick to be back here, the level of luxury is amazing. Rebecca and I are thinking of extending our stay at the Four Seasons Kuda Huraa. It’s just too good,” Burrow said.

Machado was the surfer to beat in the twin fin with a solid display of surfing all day. On a board he shaped himself, he posted a heat total of 14.80 in the final but it was not enough to overcome a rampaging Burrow. With this being his second final of the event, he still leads the charge to the overall final of the event.

“When we pulled up this morning, we were freaking out,” Machado said.

“The waves were so good today, everyone was stoked. After surfing here last year I had a good idea of the twin fin I wanted to shape and I loved how it went. This wave offers a lot of different sections, so you need a versatile board. The competition today was so exciting, the semi with Taj and Ross was crazy and it got me so pumped to surf. The waves were non-stop all day; it was amazing and a real pleasant surprise.”

Local Maldivian wildcard Kuda Issey put on an impressive display in his opening round heat to overcome 2001 WSL Champion CJ Hobgood. Kuda Issey was electric on his twin fin, even throwing a few aerial manoeuvres to move into the semifinal. In the end, he was eliminated by Machado, but was stoked to make a heat against some of his heroes.

“Making a heat at this event is like a dream for me,” Kuda Issey said.

“I never thought it would happen, but somehow I was able to find a long one at the end. It is really surreal surfing against my heroes, and to beat a world champion is amazing. I got really lucky. We are all so stoked the waves turned on today; it was pumping out there. I’m so honoured to represent the Maldives in this special event.”

In what was undoubtedly the heat of the event so far, eventual division winner Burrow came up against Hawaiian Ross Williams. Williams looked tack sharp on his fresh twin fin laying it on rail and gouging huge hacks, posting a heat total of 17.36. Burrow found himself on the ropes needing an 8.70. With only minutes to go, Burrow found a perfect set wave and got to work. The 19-year CT veteran put on an incredible display of his trademark whipping turns to post an excellent score to win the heat with a total of 18.10.

“I was more nervous at the beginning of the heat than the end,” Williams said.

“The fact that I had a lead in that heat at all was cool as Taj is ripping so hard. I’ve only surfed that twin fin a couple of times, so it was nice to feel it out. You really have to surf with your rail on a twin fin. Otherwise you just slide out, so it’s a major learning curve, something that makes this event super cool. It was a really good battle that heat, and that’s what you want. I’m having such an amazing time here in the Maldives. This place is incredible and the waves are sick.”

The 2017 Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy kick started on Friday after its opening early last week. Day one saw the completion of the Single Fin division, which was taken out by Californian style guru Machado.

The Surfing Champions Trophy determines heat times based on age and tests skill across three divisions: single-fin, twin-fin and thruster. Places are by invitation-only to six world champions in a battle for inner-circle kudos and a USD25,000 prize pot.

Returning to the annual event is Four Seasons Explorer, the Maldives’ ultimate surf vessel. Following a full interior refurbishment, the 39-metre catamaran is proudly showcasing sleek new finishes and stylish soft furnishings across all three decks while hosting the contest.

Fans can get up close to all of the action with onboard VIP passes, then continue the “surf tour” experience with shoulder-rubbing events back at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa — the homeport for the event’s competitors, judges and Tropicsurf partners.

Combining innovation, wellness and conservation, Four Seasons Resort Maldives Landaa Giraavaru is a 44-acre, 103-villa wonderland in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve — a 30-minute seaplane flight from the main Velana International Airport.

Its sister property, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa lies to the south: an enchanting garden island complete with Island Spa sea sanctuary and Tropicsurf coaches and guides. It features 96 thatched beach and water accommodations constructed by local craftsmen using indigenous materials and techniques to reflect a true sense of the Maldives.

The luxury catamaran Four Seasons Explorer connects the two properties via three, four and seven-night cruises, plus private leisure, surf and manta ray charters.

The latest addition to the Maldives collection, Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, Baa Atoll opened in December as the group’s first exclusive-use private island: off limits to everyone else, limitless to the guests.

On one of their trips to the Maldives, they were told by a waiter at Sun Aqua Vilu Reef — then called Vilu Reef Beach and Spa Resort — that they had become so frequent visitors that their faces were more familiar to him than his own parents. The young waiter explained how he saw his parents only once a year, and asked the German couple if he could call them Mama and Papa.

They agreed right away!

Ever since that encounter in 2006, Harns Guard Richter and his wife Bärbel Richter have been fondly called “Mama and Papa” by all the staff at Vilu Reef. As the couple kept returning to what they described as their “first home” twice every year on average — now thrice a year, and 30 times in total so far — they became so close to the management and staff that they are now considered part of the “Vilu Family”.

“We always say this is our first home. Our second home is in Germany. When we leave [Vilu Reef], we never say goodbye. We always say that we’re changing the place for a while, to check on our German family,” Mama tells Maldives Insider, while enjoying a cup of coffee at the overwater deck of Vilu Reef’s Nautilus bar.

Mama and Papa’s love affair with Vilu Reef began in 2002, when they came to the island just like they have visited a few other resorts in the Maldives since 1997. Every island they had visited in the Maldives before “was nice” too, but at Vilu Reef it was love at first sight. The moment they stepped foot on the arrival jetty, they were swept away by the island’s sheer natural beauty and the magical feeling that it invoked. They knew they had discovered their home.

And they never went elsewhere!

“We’ve seen so many changes [at the resort]; now there’s a pool, new villas and so on. Every time they say they’re going to change something, we tell them that there’s no need to change. But when we come back and see the changes, we realise that they’ve done it so well that it actually makes the resort so much better than before,” Mama recalls.

At Vilu Reef, Mama is also reminded of a dream she had as a kid. When she was just two years old, a relative gave her very first book, which was filled with drawings and photos of palm trees. Even at such a young age, she felt a connection to nature, and dreamt of seeing palm trees in person at least once in her lifetime.

And once has now turned into 30!

“We met a couple in Mauritius. They said, ‘When you like to go snorkelling, why don’t you go to the Maldives?’ I looked at Papa and I told him that we have to go there. And when we were back in Germany, we started reading about the Maldives, and we knew we just had to come,” Mama recalls how she and her husband came to know of the Maldives before their first ever trip to the island paradise in 1997.

“When we came to the Maldives, we wanted to have a small island with palm trees, white sand and blue sea. We wanted to go for snorkelling and see varieties of fish. And here at Vilu Reef, we keep finding the best of it all.”

Whenever they are in Vilu Reef, Mama and Papa absorb the natural beauty of the palm-fringed island located in Dhaalu atoll, a mere 35-minute seaplane flight away from the main Velana International Airport. Every morning they wake up at 6.45am to witness the sunrise as it creates a vista of orange and red on the horizon, before going for a short pre-breakfast swim. After the breakfast, which always consists of the local favourite Mashuni, Mama goes for snorkelling in time to greet the schools of fish that emerge along with the rays of sunlight beaming on the island’s house reef. After a rather active morning, the retired school teacher and supervisor spends the afternoon relaxing and lazing around with her husband, before heading out to enjoy a drink with fellow guests or chat with members of their Vilu Family.

All these experiences help Mama and Papa to answer the dozens of questions they get on travel websites such as TripAdvisor as well as from their friends and family back in Germany — some of whom have already visited the Maldives, most specifically to Vilu Reef.

“Our son has been here six times already. The first time he said, ‘I’ll try, but maybe it’s not for me’. He booked just a week. But after three days, he was so happy that he booked another week. Now he books two weeks every time,” Mama says.

Like Mama and Papa, their son and all of their friends and family that had visited Vilu Reef have fallen in love with its tranquil surroundings and its “Naturally Playful” concept of hospitality. But their love has over the years grown far beyond the island’s natural beauty and its peaceful atmosphere to encompass the friendliness of the staff and their welcoming attitude. This exceptional hospitality can be seen from the grand welcome Mama and Papa received on their 30th visit to the personalised service, including tailor-made napkin holders with ‘Mama and Papa’ written on them and replacing room number plates with ‘Mama and Papa’ name boards.

“When the aircraft door opens, and when you take a deep breath in, that feeling is just magical. You see the big smiles there to welcome you, and you feel like you’re at home. The hospitality is just magical,” Mama explains.

This deep-rooted love and connection with locals have also enabled them to fulfil a long-held wish of understanding the culture and traditions of the Maldives. Over the years, Mama and Papa have learned about the monsoons of the Maldives, indulged in local cuisine and made Garudiya their all-time favourite dish, learned a bit of local Dhivehi language, and danced to the rhythms of traditional Bodu Beru.

“When we first came to the Maldives, we also wanted to know about the culture. But we weren’t able to connect with locals this openly anywhere else. Now we’ve our Vilu Family, and a lot of friends in Meedhoo and Male. It’s so nice to know a lot of local people. Through them, we learn a lot about the culture,” Mama says.

But it is not just the locals that Mama and Papa have connected with over their decade-long love affair with Vilu Reef. They have formed ever-lasting bonds of friendship with travellers from the around world — from Austria and Russia to India amongst many others — that have visited Vilu Reef over the past 18 years of its operation. With some of their Vilu Family members, they have even developed a tradition; making a pact to meet at Vilu Reef, be it during the festive season in December or during the summer holidays in April.

Honouring that pact, Mama and Papa will return to Vilu Reef in December for the 31st time — 38th trip to the Maldives — to meet, greet and make memories with their Vilu Family both from the Maldives and abroad. For now, they are soaking up the sun, sea and sand while enjoying the peace and quiet at their “first home” before “changing the place” again for a few months.

Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa has appointed Pravin Kumar as its new General Manager.

In a statement, the award-winning luxury resort said Kumar was promoted from his previous role of Director of Operations.

According to the EcoLuxury Hotel, Kumar brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the role, having worked at a range of hotels and resorts worldwide, including Starwood Hotels in Dubai, the Grand Hyatt Mumbai in India and the Grand Mauritian in Mauritius. He has great aspirations, and aims to continue improving on the hard work of his predecessor Mariano Silvestri, it added.

“It is with great delight that I take on the role of General Manager of Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa. I’m looking forward to providing a sense of continuity, leading on from my previous role as Director of Operations of this incredible island property, and sustaining our spirit of innovation and environmental preservation. I am extremely proud to lead a team of such wonderful and dedicated colleagues and to continue my journey with a company that cares for its people,” Kumar was quoted in the statement, as saying.

The appointment comes as Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa, located in the southern Gaafu Alif atoll, gears up for the launch of two new luxury villa categories, including the resort’s first two-bedroom family villas and more villas with private pools.

Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa currently features 16 Park Villas and 20 Park Pool Villas, seven Park Water Villas and seven Park Water Sunset Villas. The resort offers luxurious amenities, a host of recreational activities, and relaxing and rejuvenating treatments.

Since the five-star resort welcomed its first guests in 2009, it has undergone serval refurbishments to offer guests the ultimate luxury Maldivian experience.

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives kicked off its annual Mini Olympics on Saturday, as employees gathered for two weeks of fun-filled sports and games.

The Kandooma Mini Olympics consists of 11 team sports, six individual sports and another six fun games. Participants include 415 employees from all divisions of the resort.

Kandooma’s General Manager Joseph Della Gatta told local daily Mihaaru that employees prepare in advance for this event every year. It allows staff from different sections and departments to come together and bond while having fun, he added.

“Such an event keeps the staff motivated,” Joseph said.

Accessible by a 40-minute speedboat ride from the main Velana International Airport, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives offers 160 villas in four different styles of beach and garden villas, beach houses, family villas and overwater villas. Each villa type at the resort has been designed with cool clean lines with white washed timber providing warm texture to the unshod foot. Large picture windows mean that you are only a glance away from the great blue outdoors.

Amongst the six dining options on the island, fresh local seafood is served at The Kitchen Restaurant, which offers breathtaking sunset views. The newly refurbished Kandooma Cafe features Western and Asian meals and provides indoor and outdoor seating, while the Bokkuraa Coffee Club located next to the sparkling infinity pool offers a selection of coffees along with wood-fired pizza.

Guests can enjoy a work-out at the fitness centre or run on the jogging track around the island. Thai massages and body treatments are available at Kandooma Spa.

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is also surrounded by world-class diving and surfing sites, treating guests to the breath-taking underwater beauty of the Maldives. Alternatively, they can go on a catamaran trip around the region’s sand banks and take it easy with cocktails on a sunset cruise.

Australian Taj Burrow has taken out his second consecutive Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy in perfect three-to-four foot waves at the right-hand reef of Sultans.

Burrow surfed an incredible event, taking out the Twin Fin and Thruster Division to make it to the Grand Final of the “world’s most luxurious surfing event”.

In the Grand Final on Sunday, Burrow came up against an in form Rob Machado. Machado had been looking dangerous all event, finishing first in the Single Fin and second on the Twin Fin. It was Burrow’s fast and critical surfing, however, that saw him take the overall win with a heat total of 16.73 (out of a possible 20).

“I’m so extremely excited, I’m just having the best time,” Burrow said.

“This is such an amazing event. I would have retired earlier if I knew this is what life would be like; it’s too good. I’m so stoked I got to come back here after a win last year. We get so spoiled at the Four Seasons Kuda Huraa and then to come just around the corner and have waves that are this good is such a treat. It’s an incredible place. Winning again is really special to me.”

Burrow has not lost much of his competitive tenacity since retiring from the elite WSL Championship Tour (CT) a year ago. He consistently posted huge scores through all three divisions and into the grand final. In the final of the Thruster event, he even posted the only perfect 10-point ride of the event for a super deep tube ride.

“The waves were cooking for this whole event,” Burrow continued.

“The forecast wasn’t looking great so to score the waves we did was sick, even getting that barrelled today was a nice surprise. Everyone in this event surfs so amazingly I really had to surf out of my skin to win this thing. If I do get to come back next year I’ll be over the moon. It’s definitely one of the sickest events on the planet.”

Machado was returning to the Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy for the second time. After failing to make the Grand Final in 2016, Machado returned with something to prove and it showed in his smooth yet aggressive attack. In the final, Machado posted a heat total of 14.93 and as the waves slowed he was unable to find the score he needed to take the lead.

“I have no complaints about finishing second,” Machado said.

“Today was actually super tight with who would make it into the Grand Final, so it was cool to watch it all play out. It was just great to come back here and have the Four Seasons Kuda Huraa experience again. The waves were so sick for the event as well, but it was always going to be hard to beat Taj. The guy is just so good.”

Finishing runner-up in the Thruster Division against Burrow was 2001 WSL Champion CJ Hobgood. The Floridian goofy foot was a standout all event but came up against a rampaging Burrow in the final. Hobgood was unable to get in a rhythm but was thankful to be apart of the Champions Trophy.

“I can’t believe I got to have this experience it’s definitely once in a lifetime,” Hobgood said.

“It was a shame I had such a bad heat in the final but I’m not too disappointed. It’s been great to see all of these old friends and hang out. Waking up in Kuda Huraa, the most perfect island, and then cruising on a boat for two minutes and you have waves like this is like a dream.”

Brazilian big wave inspiration Maya Gabeira put on her best performance of the event during the Thruster Division. The goofy foot came just short of a Semifinal berth but was over the moon to have been part of such a special event. She stated this week at the Four Seasons Maldives as a definite life highlight.

“This has been such an amazing time for us here in the Maldives,” Gabeira said.

“The Four Seasons Kuda Huraa experience has been like no other, just so luxurious. I don’t usually go on trips looking for fun size waves, but I’m glad I came here as the waves are so fun and playful. Surfing with all of the guys was so incredible. They are such amazing surfers and my heroes, so it was cool to compete against them. I’ve had the most amazing time at this event.”

Local wildcard Ismail ‘Kuda Issey’ Miglal had his best performance in thruster division posting a heat total of 12.50. He was not able to overcome Hobgood in his semi-final but, was stoked to have had the opportunity to surf with and against his surfing idols.

“This was the most amazing experience of my life,” Kuda Issey said.

“Staying in luxury and having my home breaks with no one else out was so cool. It was an honour to surf with my heroes. Watching them surf taught me a lot about my surfing and how I can improve. I loved the experience and will never forget it.”

The Surfing Champions Trophy determines heat times based on age and tests skill across three divisions: single-fin, twin-fin and thruster. Places are by invitation-only to six world champions in a battle for inner-circle kudos and a USD25,000 prize pot.

Four Seasons Explorer, the Maldives’ ultimate surf vessel, returned to the event following a full interior refurbishment. The 39-metre catamaran proudly showcased its sleek new finishes and stylish soft furnishings across all three decks while hosting the contest.

Fans got up close to all of the action with onboard VIP passes, then continued the “surf tour” experience with shoulder-rubbing events back at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa — the homeport for the event’s competitors, judges and Tropicsurf partners.

Combining innovation, wellness and conservation, Four Seasons Resort Maldives Landaa Giraavaru is a 44-acre, 103-villa wonderland in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve — a 30-minute seaplane flight from the main Velana International Airport.

Its sister property, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa lies to the south: an enchanting garden island complete with Island Spa sea sanctuary and Tropicsurf coaches and guides. It features 96 thatched beach and water accommodations constructed by local craftsmen using indigenous materials and techniques to reflect a true sense of the Maldives.

The luxury catamaran Four Seasons Explorer connects the two properties via three, four and seven-night cruises, plus private leisure, surf and manta ray charters.

The latest addition to the Maldives collection, Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, Baa Atoll opened in December as the group’s first exclusive-use private island: off limits to everyone else, limitless to the guests.

Premier destination wedding specialist Ikebana Events has won an award at the recently concluded Exotic Wedding Planning Conference (EWPC), making it the first international wedding award to the Maldives.

At the Indian edition of EWPC, which was held in Goa from August 3-4, Ikebana won the award for the Best Experimental Wedding. The award, which recognised a wedding hosted at OZEN by Atmosphere at Maadhoo, was received by a team from Ikebana, including its founder Abdulla Naashid.

The fourth edition of EWPC brought together more than 130 top notch wedding planners from across India and over 40 wedding specialists from around the world to discuss the opportunities and challenges in the wedding planning industry. The two-day conference included thought leadership sessions, presentation of case studies, expert panels, round-table discussions and networking activities.

At EWPC, awards were presented to seven wedding specialists to recognise creativity and uniqueness behind their best work in the past year.

“There is a huge potential in promoting the Maldives as a wedding destination. We believe that the islands of Maldives, especially the luxury resorts across the archipelago, are the perfect match for destination weddings,” an official from Ikebana told Maldives Insider.

“Events such as the EWPC are attended by world’s leading destination wedding specialists and influencers. By taking part in such events, more interest can be generated in the Maldives as a wedding destination.”

Founded by industry experts specialising in creating innovative, sophisticated and cutting-edge events, Ikebana has over the past decade established itself as the premier wedding planner in the Maldives. From engagement parties and weddings to award functions, conferences and styled ceremonies, the team at Ikebana offers solutions that create unforgettable moments.

Backed by florists and wedding specialists with over 35 years of experience, Ikebana now has an ever-expanding portfolio of premium destination weddings and beach weddings hosted at several high-end luxury resorts in the Maldives. Some highlights of Ikebana’s portfolio include the Chinese celebrity wedding of Zheng Jun and Liu Yunat at Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa Maldives, a jungle wedding at Ananatara Veli Maldives and Naladhu Private Island Maldives, and an exclusive island wedding at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru.

Maldives has won several global and regional accolades for being amongst the most romantic destinations in the world, with the latest being included in an annual list compiled by Brides magazine of the 20 most honeymoon worthy destinations in the world. Surveys and studies analysing travel trends have also shown that a healthy majority of travellers that choose the Maldives are honeymooners.

Travellers often hold ceremonial weddings and renewal of vows ceremonies in the picturesque holiday destination of the Maldives — home to powder soft white sand beaches and turquoise waters that provide the perfect backdrop for your special day.

Local resort operator Sun Siyam Resorts has announced special summer offers for September.

The offers are valid for bookings made till September for stays until the end of the month.

For its flagship The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives resort, the offer gives complimentary upgrade to the next meal plan — free dinner for bed and breakfast plan, and free lunch for half board plan — and complimentary accommodation (including meals) for children below 12 years of age. Additionally, discounts of up to 50 percent are offered for bookings made via the official website.

Daily rates at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives, located in the northern Noonu atoll, start from USD 372.

For Sun Aqua Vilu Reef, the offer gives up to 50 percent discount on room rate if booked via the official website and complimentary accommodation (including meals) for children below 12 years of age.

Daily rates at Sun Aqua Vilu Reef, located in the southern Dhaalu atoll, start from USD 250.

The offer for Olhuveli Beach and Spa resort comes with discounts of up to 50 percent if booked via the official website and complimentary accommodation (including meals) for children below 12 years of age. The package also includes complimentary special touches for couples celebrating honeymoon or anniversary.

Daily rates at Olhuveli Beach and Spa, located in South Male Atoll, start from USD 189.

Sun Siyam Resorts is a collection of hotel and resort brands born from the inspiration of renowned local hotelier Ahmed Siyam Mohamed. Led by his passion for creating a difference in the Maldives tourism industry that redefines the luxury hospitality experience, Sun Siyam Resorts has a portfolio of boutique luxury resorts operating in the Maldives and Sri Lanka, including The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives, Olhuveli Beach and Spa Maldives, Sun Aqua Vilu Reef Maldives and Sun Aqua Pasikudah in Sri Lanka.

The resort group has recently announced a major expansion, with three new resorts opening in the Maldives and one in Sri Lanka over the next two years.

Finolhu Maldives has partnered with leading travel retail innovator Virgin Holidays to bring the resort’s retro chic Maldives experience to London.

The one-day pop-up event held last week saw Virgin Holidays’ newly refurbished flagship vroom store on London’s High Street Kensington transformed into a showcase of Finolhu’s retro chic experience. The resort’s resident Area 51 performance creatives were there to entertain visitors with acrobats, magicians and even a mermaid in a martini glass.

Since its founding in 1985, Virgin Holidays has grown to become one of the largest and most successful long-haul scheduled tour operators in the UK. The company offers holidays worldwide with destinations including the US and Canada, the Caribbean, Africa, the Middle East, India, the Indian Ocean, the Far East, Australia and the South Pacific.

Its flagship vroom store in London re-opened on June 2 following refurbishment. The revamped store follows a concept seen in the operator’s nine other dedicated vrooms across the UK, and features a bar, a dedicated area for children and a lounge.

Bringing a timeless sense of style to the pristine lagoons and rich waters of the Maldives’ Baa atoll, Finolhu, which opened in  June 2016, is a refined, retro-inspired island paradise for the fun-loving beach-erati, and an unexpected revival of the halcyon days of the classic chic getaway. With its retro themed Maldives island concept, Finolhu, run by The Small Maldives Island Co., caters to guests seeking fun and adventure on a party atmosphere.

Britain is a major source market for the Maldives, with more than 100,000 British travellers visiting the Indian Ocean island nation last year — a 9.8 percent increase from the year before.

Despite a slowdown, growth in the UK market has continued this year as well. Official figures show that the number of British travellers that visited the Maldives in the first half of the year rose by 0.4 percent compared to the same period of last year to reach 51,737.

Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) has announced plans to host a leading global training programme on China outbound travel market in the Maldives.

In a statement, MATATO said the training programme, run worldwide by world’s leading research institute on China market China Outbound Tourism Research Institute (COTRI), would be held in the Maldives on September 11.

Registration for the one-day training programme is open for resorts, hotels, liveaboards and guesthouses. Interested parties are required to fill a registration form.

Participation costs USD 250, but MATATO members, groups of more than five and early applicants are eligible for a 10 percent discount. As a limited number of 40 seats is available, registration will be confirmed on first-come-first served basis.

Targeted towards sales teams and marketing executives in the travel industry, this training programme offers deep insights into the characteristics, expectations, motivations and needs of Chinese travellers, enabling tourism service providers to customise their marketing strategy and services to attract the right Chinese traveller.

The programme, which is recommended by the European Travel Commission (ETC) and endorsed by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), will be facilitated by COTRI Founder and Director Professor Wolfgang Georg Arlt, who is a member of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Panel of Tourism Experts and a visiting professor at universities in China, United Kingdom and New Zealand.

According to MATATO, successful participants will acquire certification as Chinese Tourist Welcome Quality Hosts for two years.

Maldives ranks amongst the most favoured holiday destinations for Chinese travellers, but the Chinese market has posted major declines over the past year. Arrivals from China, which still remains the single biggest source market, has dropped 10.3 percent in the first half of this year to reach 141,495 from 157,764 in the same period of last year.

MATATO, in partnership with renowned global organisations and institutes, hosts several training programmes for the Maldives travel and tourism industry. Amongst them are the recently concluded PATA Academy programme, and a customer service and social media marketing programme.

Photo: Mihaaru

LUX* South Ari Atoll hosted arts and crafts classes with a visiting Maldivian artist this week, capping off the event with an art exhibition by two local artists.

For four days, Maldivian artist Ibrahim Ali conducted sessions for interested guests, where they learned about several forms of arts and crafts, including coconut art, marble art, shrinking paper art and accessory making. Guests who signed up for the classes learned to make creative accessories and vibrant artworks from everyday materials found in the Maldives such as coconuts and shells.

Ali, who currently resides in Japan, also held an exhibition of his own art series, called Turquoise. The series presents the natural beauty of the Maldives, especially its turquoise blue waters, through his imagination.

“Kids and adults alike joined my classes and they were all so happy. My idea of art has a fun aspect to it, and I believe that the participants had fun while learning something new. I had a fabulous time too, and LUX* did an amazing job organising this event,” Ali said.

On the final day of the event, LUX* South Ari Atoll spiced up its usual Maldivian Night beach dinner on Tuesday by inviting renowned local artist Hussein ‘Iphpha’ Iffal to join Ali and showcase their work in a joint art exhibition on the beach. Alongside Ali’s Turquoise series, Iffal displayed 10 paintings from his famous coffee-infused art series to a curious audience.

Commenting on the event, Hussain Afeef, Regional Director of Training, Development and Quality Assurance at LUX* South Ari Atoll, highlighted the brand’s commitment to promote local culture, heritage and talent, especially amongst the guests. LUX* admires the creativity and uniqueness of talented Maldivian artists, he said.

“We are delighted to have had the opportunity to showcase the talent of Iphpha and Ali. Both of them have added value to our guest experience, and have helped our guests celebrate life. Our team is committed to continuing these initiatives,” Afeef told Maldives Insider.

Fresh from its relaunch late last year, cutting-edge designer villas and world-class dining can be found only a 30-minute seaplane flight away from the main Velana International Airport, making LUX* South Ari Atoll one of the most exciting resorts in the Maldives.

With 187 private villas dotted at the water’s edge along four kilometres of powder fine beach or perched on stilts above a crystal clear lagoon, these spacious pavilions and villas bring an entirely original vibe of coastal, beach house chic to the Maldives.

Excellent eating and drinking is always a cut above the rest at LUX*, and at LUX* South Ari Atoll, there is authentic South East Asian street food in the Maldives’ only over-the-water gourmet night market and world-class Chinese cuisine at East, along with the Japanese restaurant Umami, which offers live teppanyaki and dazzling selection of sakés.

In addition to the usual dining options, on every Tuesday evening, guests at LUX* South Ari Atoll are treated to a feast of authentic Maldivian cuisine set up by the beach. The dinner, ranging from food items such as short eats and curries to live cooking by locals from nearby islands, are complemented by local Bodu Beru dance and music, making it a truly Maldivian Night.

While the resort has a PADI-certified dive centre, two infinity pools, a floodlit tennis court, a fitness centre and a renowned spa which hosts a wellness concierge and a menu of indulgent treatments, what sets the property apart from its neighbours are surprises, or better known as #ReasonstogoLUX. Designed to create lasting memories for guests, these ‘reasons’ can range from island-roasted coffee in Café LUX* to impromptu movie screenings at cinema paradise and the chance to hang your wishes on the Tree of Wishes.

Les Turquoise D’Aqua restaurant at Lily Beach Resort and Spa Maldives has won the award for the best Luxury Hotel Restaurant in Indian Ocean.

The continental award was presented to the resort at the gala ceremony of World Luxury Restaurant Awards which took place at the JW Marriott Hanoi hotel in Vietnam on July 22.

Les Turquoise D’Aqua offers a sumptuous fine dining experience, combining the thrilling contemporary cuisine with the peacefulness of the setting.

Embark on a culinary journey, consisting of a five-course degustation menu that derives its quality from a harmonious symphony of fresh produce and mindful preparation. Les Turquoise D’Aqua lets guests spend quality time with their significant others in a romantic setting that will make their dream holiday at Lily Beach Resort and Spa a memorable one.

At Les Turquoise D’Aqua, treat yourself to the fine dining, coupled with exquisite wine that will not only satiate your hunger but provide an all-encompassing experience, best when enjoyed in a moonlit atmosphere in the Maldives.

With over 100,000 votes cast for 1,000 entrants in 78 categories this year, the World Luxury Restaurant Awards recognise restaurants across the globe for their culinary excellence and memorable experiences, as well as assessing the quality of the atmosphere and service. The awards aim to provide luxury restaurants with increased recognition as well as introduce them to potential new guests, both local and international. Votes come from both guests and industry experts, thus providing a balanced and unbiased outcome based on the food experience as a whole.

Set on the island of Huvahendhoo in South Ari Atoll, Lily Beach is a 25-minute seaplane flight away from the main Velana International Airport. This five-star luxury resort, which perfected the Platinum All-Inclusive holiday experience, features 125 villas — both on land and over water — with private decks and open-air bathrooms with jacuzzis, canopy beds, glass floors and plunge pools. 

In close proximity to some of the most amazing dive sites in the world, Lily Beach also offers a wide range of recreational activities and plenty of relaxation options.

More than 100 guesthouses have already registered to attend the second edition of Guesthouses Maldives Conference, organisers Maldives Getaways announced Saturday.

In a statement, the local PR firm said confirmed attendees include properties in guesthouse dependent islands as well as upcoming guesthouses of all sizes and styles. They will have the opportunity to network with over 50 local and international travel agents that are solely focused on the budget travel market, it added.

According to Maldives Getaways, registration is open online till August 31, with participation limited to 200 guesthouses. Once the 200 slots are filled, registration will be closed automatically, it said.

“Maldives Getaways urge guesthouses to register at the earliest possible on the Guesthouses Maldives website,” the statement read.

As an incentive, organisers are offering free listing on their Guesthouses Maldives magazine, which is published in English. A total of 5,000 copies of the annual magazine are printed and freely distributed to all interested parties across the globe, including suppliers, travel agents and other businesses.

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. Some 330 guesthouses have started operations over the past five years as the number of travellers that choose to stay in guesthouses rise.

The annual Guesthouses Maldives Conference is aimed at bringing together owners and key stakeholders from the guesthouses and travel industry to discuss and share ideas on the challenges as well as the opportunities in the industry. Through the conference, the organisers target to find ways to bring in 500,000 tourists to guesthouses across the Maldives by the year 2020.

The first edition of the conference, which was held in Male in September 2016, was attended by over 160 guesthouse operators, local and international travel agents, tour operators, online travel agents (OTAs), airlines, government agencies and business leaders.