Coco Collection wins Indian Ocean’s Leading Boutique Hotel Brand at the World Travel Awards 2017

Coco Collection is thrilled to have been awarded Indian Ocean’s Leading Boutique Hotel Brand at the 2017 World Travel Awards. Established in 1993, these prestigious accolades celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality. Today, the World Travel Awards is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence. At the Indian Ocean gala ceremony held on 08th July, the award was accepted by Mr. Shabeer Ahmed, Founder, Managing Director and Chairman of Coco Collection.  

Three islands comprise the Coco Collection brand. Coco Privé Private Island offers guests the chance to escape to an entirely private island. Creating a sense of intimacy and ownership, this 1.4-hectare island is dedicated to one booking at a time, where every guest is given a completely individual tailored experience. Coco Bodu Hithi translates island life into contemporary sophistication. The resort is a chic retreat where you reconnect with yourself, your loved ones and the wonder of the natural world. Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is dedicated to the inspiring beauty and natural wonder of the Maldives. Here, environmentally-conscious touches are woven into luxurious natural surroundings and initiatives contribute to the environmental and social sustainability of Maldives.

Coco Collection has built a strong reputation as a luxury brand offering stylish and sophisticated escapes, and this win is another step in strengthening the position as a leading boutique luxury brand in the Maldives and the region.

About Coco Collection

Coco Collection is a prestigious hotel group, and a subsidiary of Sunland Hotels. Since opening the flagship hotel in July 2007, the company has continued to grow and develop its reputation as a trailblazer in stylish, sophisticated yet sustainable hospitality.

Coco Collection’s portfolio comprises three distinct brands, Coco Resorts: Hotels: Retreats, Coco Privé and Coco Palm. The Coco Resorts: Hotels: Retreats includes the luxury resort Coco Bodu Hithi; Coco Palm features the environmentally conscious escape Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu; and Coco Privé consists of the private and exclusive Coco Privé Kuda Hithi Island. Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu are both Preferred Boutique Hotels, members of the global Preferred Hotel Group Association.

Coco Bodu Hithi Maldives Achieves Travelife Gold Certification

Coco Bodu Hithi is delighted to announce the achievement of the prestigious Travelife Gold certification. In line with one of the core values of Coco Collection, Coco Bodu Hithi shares a sustainable outlook by supporting the fragile environment and the local community. Travelife is an international certification system, promoting sustainability within the tourism industry by monitoring social and environmental impacts.

During the process that led up to this achievement, the operations of the island were carefully assessed by the Travelife team, taking into account 150 sustainability criteria. These included environmental policies to minimize waste, energy and water consumption. To become more energy efficient, Coco Bodu Hithi has replaced incandescent bulbs with LED lights and controlled public area and pathway lights with photocell and timers. The amount of waste produced has been controlled by creating natural compost for the lush gardens around the island. Additionally, the resort utilizes various water-saving methods; including collecting rainwater to underground tanks and re-using treated non-toxic sewerage water for gardening purposes.

Coco Bodu Hithi came up strong with further measures to protect the marine environment through the initiatives of a dedicated marine biology team. Contribution to several key projects such as the sea turtle and manta ray identification project has put the island at the top of the list of research submitters identifying the behavioral patterns of these fragile species. Furthermore, Coco Bodu Hithi is very keen on communicating the environmental policies and the conservation initiatives. Citizen science projects have become a norm on the island with the contribution of guests, either by submitting identification pictures of marine life, planting coral nurseries, or taking part in the reef cleaning activities.

One of the most important partnerships that Coco Collection is a part of is the Olive Ridley Project, where both parties have teamed up to reduce the effects of ghost nets on marine life. Phase 1 includes a turtle rescue centre at Coco Palm, the portfolio’s property in Baa atoll, with phase 2 seeing the construction of another centre at Coco Bodu Hithi. Through generous contributions from the purchase of plush turtle toys and by direct donations, guests have played a tremendous role in supporting this initiative.

“This achievement is celebrated by each and every associate on our team! Coco Bodu Hithi is the ideal retreat for the romantics looking to get away from the hassle of it all.” comments General Manager, Georgios Papazoglou. “At the same time, it is a haven for the conscious travellers seeking to make their holiday matter. This certification puts us on the map with islands that are committed to making holidays greener.”

Among other recent developments in the green arena, both Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu have been hand-picked by Green Pearls, a portfolio of sustainable and unique places worldwide. The members of the portfolio show a large diversity of different approaches to sustainability. But they all have one thing in common: they guarantee a dedication to the social balance of their respective vacation area, and both Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu are proud to be associated with this.

Germany’s Youngest Michelin Star Chef at Coco Bodu Hithi

This August, Coco Bodu Hithi will welcome Philipp Stein, the youngest Michelin-starred chef in Germany. He received his first ever Michelin star at only 24 years in 2014 and a year later, Gault & Millau awarded him with 16 points and 2 toques. Young and exceptionally talented, Philipp is the Chef de Cuisine at Favorite Restaurant in Mainz.

The delightful opportunity to indulge in Philipp’s creations awaits the guests of Coco Bodu Hithi. Bringing a fresh approach to fine dining, his cooking style is simple and straight to the basics without fuss or frills. His family has owned a popular restaurant for five generations and coming from such a gastronomic family, Philipp is dedicated to his roots. The result is the fusion of classical bases laced with aromatic sauces. The influence of world renowned chefs that he has worked with, including Dieter Müller and Helmut Thieltges, is reflected in his dishes. His approach to cooking, however, is very much his own individual style.

Aqua at Coco Bodu Hithi, the fine dining seafood specialty restaurant set over the lagoon, will be the backdrop for Philipp’s original creations. During his stay, guests can join in a master class where Philipp lends some of his tips and techniques and shares how to create a course or two from the dinner menu. A teaser to an exceptional dinner, this is a rare opportunity to interact with a personality that is leading a new generation of young and ambitious cooks in Germany. Afterward, guests can dive into a five-course menu designed to tantalize even the most curious of gourmets, in two dedicated dinners by Philipp Stein at Aqua.

“Coco Bodu Hithi is truly a gourmet’s paradise! Once again, we are pleased to offer an exceptional experience for our guests as we prepare to welcome Chef Philipp Stein. The team is looking forward to the energetic approach that Philipp will bring to our kitchen and most importantly, the original creations he has planned for our guests. August will be a very special period for us here on the island!” comments Georgios Papazoglou, General Manager at Coco Bodu Hithi.

With four eclectic restaurants, two welcoming bars, an intimate wine loft and a variety of private dining experiences, Coco Bodu Hithi is a culinary hotspot in Maldives. Adding to the on-island venues are the many world class chefs such as Philipp Stein that make guests appearances every year.

Coco Bodu Hithi

Based in North Malé Atoll, Coco Bodu Hithi is known to first welcome guests in 2006, radiating luxury chic fusion with traditional Maldivian touches. This boutique resort includes 100 uber-stylish villas, a varied collection of modern restaurants and bars, a Coco Spa, and water-sport center. Along with a portfolio of an unforgettable ‘Uniquely Coco’ experiences, Coco Bodu Hithi is set to give wonderful moments made up of pristine beaches, palm trees and with a coral reef.

Coco Collection holds Savour 2015

For food fanatics from around the world enjoying their luxurious stay at Coco Bodu Hithi in Maldives, Savour 2015 was a very literal taste of the good life. The event hosted by Coco Collection from 21st March to 3rd April saw Michelin Starred Chefs Frédéric Doucet, Nigel Haworth, Aktar Islam, Andrew Pern as well as Food & Beverage Specialist, Rogers Benham, who took turns to demonstrate master classes showcasing some of their signature dishes.

Soft shell crab, caraway tempura, south Indian tomato chutney, Chef Aktar Islam, Savour 2015
Soft shell crab, caraway tempura, south Indian tomato chutney, Chef Aktar Islam, Savour 2015
Tandoori, lamb cutlet, Chachumber salad, Chef Aktar Islam, Savour 2015
Tandoori, lamb cutlet, Chachumber salad, Chef Aktar Islam, Savour 2015
Mackerel, palm sugar and chili, Chef Aktar Islam, Savour 2015
Mackerel, palm sugar and chili, Chef Aktar Islam, Savour 2015
Chef Aktar Islam preparing a dish, Savour 2015
Chef Aktar Islam preparing a dish, Savour 2015
Chef Aktar Islam, Savour 2015
Chef Aktar Islam, Savour 2015

This was the first time such a sophisticated culinary event was held in the Maldives at such a grand scale and according to Coco Collection this event, which received overwhelming support, is going to become an annual event.

Chef Andrew Pern preparing Dressed King Crab with Green Herb Mayonnaise,Tomato & Basil Salad,Paramesan Crips, Bloody Mary Dressing, Savour 2015
Chef Andrew Pern preparing Dressed King Crab with Green Herb Mayonnaise,Tomato & Basil Salad,Paramesan Crips, Bloody Mary Dressing, Savour 2015
Breast of Duck with Candied Fennel, Cottage Cheese, Roast Peach, Yorkshire Relish, Chef Andrew Pern, Savour 2015
Breast of Duck with Candied Fennel, Cottage Cheese, Roast Peach, Yorkshire Relish, Chef Andrew Pern, Savour 2015

For the world renowned chefs and mixologist, most of whom are first timers in Maldives, it was love at first sight. The little paradise on earth is on the bucket lists of most people who dream of spending at least a few days enjoying the dreamy islands surrounded by white sandy beaches and vast turquoise lagoons. When asked about his experience in the Maldives, Chef Akhtar Islam remarked, “Since I landed here, I am in love and lost in Maldives!”-a view shared by the other chefs and mixologist as well. Thus the stunning island of Coco Bodu Hithi, which has a romantic and timeless charm, was the perfect setting for this amazing culinary experience. The master classes, dinners and cocktail parties were held at the 7 scenic indoor and outdoor restaurants and bars of the resort.

Chef Nigel Haworth preparing a dish, Savour 2015
Chef Nigel Haworth preparing a dish, Savour 2015
Warm Lobster Salad, Basil, Citrus, Champagne Dressing, Chef Nigel Haworth, Savour 2015
Warm Lobster Salad, Basil, Citrus, Champagne Dressing, Chef Nigel Haworth, Savour 2015
Chef Nigel Haworth, Savour 2015
Chef Nigel Haworth, Savour 2015

Prior to the event the General Manager at Coco Bodu Hithi, Georgiou Papazoglou said, “Coco Bodu Hithi has always been a haven for food aficionados and Savour 2015 offers an impressive lineup for our guests to indulge in world-class dining experiences throughout their stay. Holding true to our promise to offer an inspirational stay, this culinary journey will create moments to treasure for a lifetime.”

Overwater Villas, Coco Bodu Hithi
Overwater Villas, Coco Bodu Hithi

Savour 2015 was indeed a unique and rare experience for guests who not only got to taste delectable cuisines but interact with the world renowned chefs and learn some of their signature creations. Guests at Coco Bodu Hithi who were lucky enough to experience the culinary event were doubly sated. They enjoyed world-class food at one of the most luxurious and picturesque resorts in the beautiful Maldives.