Kuredu welcomes new General Manager Patrick de Staercke

Kuredu Island Resort & Spa, the Maldives’ second largest resort, has named Patrick de Staercke as its new General Manager.

To those who have had the pleasure to work with Patrick, the appointment does not come as a surprise. His professional background and excellent people skills have been a winning mix for bringing all resorts under his management to new heights; the popularity of one of the Maldives’ most romantic resorts, Komandoo, and the outstanding guest feedback that Hurawalhi is receiving, are examples of Patrick’s determination to exceed bottom line expectations and his drive to attain the best possible performance.

Patrick’s management skills, passion and customer orientation are on par with his bright personality, wit and accommodating nature, which inevitably results in good spirits running high throughout the team. This nourishing of positivity and keeping a strong focus on guest satisfaction and constant improvement of facilities and services are a prerequisite for any property to flourish; by having Patrick at the helm of the resort, we are certain that Kuredu will continue to be among the best-value resorts in the Maldives.

On behalf of everyone at Kuredu, we congratulate Patrick de Staercke on the appointment and wish him great success.

General Manager, Patrick de Staercke, Kuredu Island Resort & Spa, the Maldives

Singha Estate to create a World Destination in Maldives’ mega-project

World’s number one beach club from Ibiza island “Cafe Del Mar” approached Singha Estate Plc and they have agreed to jointly create a one-stop world destination in Maldives. The latest partnership further underlines Singha’s attempt to provide all-round facilities for tourists after it has formed commercial relationships with renowned entertainment brand Hard Rock Hotel Group. The mega project’s first phase will be officially launched next year. Once opened, it is expected to gain attentions from tourists around the world as a top destination in the Indian Ocean.

         Singha Estate Plc, has revealed the latest progress of its mega project in Maldives which will consist of a yacht marina, retail outlets, a hotel and stunning white sand beach in the first phase. The company has earned trust from leading international firms including Hard Rock which will open a one-of-its-kind theme hotel in the project.

         In the latest progress, Singha Estate has teamed up with Cafe Del Mar, the world’s popular beach club operator whose iconic facilities are located at famous beach destinations around the world. The arrival of Cafe Del Mar underscores the project’s goal to become a world-class destination with all-round facilities that all groups of tourists ever want.

         Commenting on the deal, Mr. Thitti Thongbenchamas, chief investment officer of Singha Estate Plc said the contract signing with Cafe De Mar was another significant progress of the company’s mega project in Maldives. Cafe Del Mar will be the largest beach club ever on any islands which will make it a must-visit destination for every traveler.

         “Founded in 1980 in Ibiza in Spain, Cafe del Mar pioneers unique style of colourful and fun-filled beach clubs around the world located at famous tourist destinations in Australia, Spain and Hawaii. In Maldives, the beach club by Cafe Del Mar will be a flagship outlet in the Indian Ocean with space of over 5,000 sqm. The club is popular among its fans thanks to its high creativity. They have created their own music which is tailored made for each event or activity. Many of the music creations by celebrity DJs like Roger Sanchez, Dimitri, Boy George and Paul Oakenfold have been familiar among fans. This partnership is a very exciting as it could open a chance for Thai music fans to meet them and enjoy their works in the future,” he added.

Singha Estate, Maldives

         Director of Cafe del Mar group, Domenic Zappia said that the company is pleased that Singha decided to partner with us. “We’re thrilled to be partnering with such a credible group in Thailand as Singha Estate.

         “The Maldives location has a range of qualities that are attractive to Cafe del Mar. It has an amazing climate, a relaxed vacation atmosphere, and a stunning Indian Ocean aspect. It’s the perfect place for us to expand the Cafe del Mar experience to a new market of inspired travelers.

         “We will stay true to our premium, relaxed style of architecture and design, quality food and beverage offering, whilst delivering impeccable service – thus keeping the essence of Cafe del Mar true to its core,” said Mr. Zappia. “However, new elements such as Wood Fired cooking in our state of the art kitchen enhanced by ingredient by Singha Group is a very exciting new addition”.

         The Beach Club in Maldives connected with the yacht marina can accommodate a large number of guests. The pool by the beach will be designed by a world-class designer with unique style. The beach club will offer guests the ability to experience all aspects of a vacation based on their personal tastes especially partying along with leading international DJs. The club will surely be yet another magnet in the mega-project where party-goers who are into music will spend most of their time. The club is expected to open in the first phase by next year.

         Singha Estate’s Thitti said that the partnerships with world-renowned companies in various aspects including the accommodations, shopping and entertainment are boosting the project’s profile. This is an unprecedented cooperation in Maldives. With the presence of the famous brands like Hard Rock and Cafe Del Mar, every tourist will certainly look forward to visiting the project. The company will reveal the first glimpse of this mega-project to the public very soon.

Mövenpick Hotels & Resort’s first resort in the Maldives

Mövenpick Resort & Spa Kuredhivaru Maldives will offer contemporary elegance in Noonu Atoll

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has signed an agreement to manage its first resort in the Maldives. The planned 105-unit resort, Mövenpick Resort & Spa Kuredhivaru Maldives, will be situated on the remote Kuredhivaru Island in Noonu Atoll, providing a desirable sanctuary surrounded by pristine natural beauty in the exclusive northern part of the Maldives. It is scheduled to open during the second quarter of 2018.

Mövenpick Resort & Spa Kuredhivaru Maldives
Mövenpick Resort & Spa Kuredhivaru Maldives

The contemporary tropical resort will combine comfort and style, with 33 Beach Villas and 72 Over Water Villas. While designed as a destination for relaxing and rejuvenating escapes offering a high degree of privacy, the resort will also feature an array of onsite recreational facilities to entertain a wide range of guests, from honeymooners to adventurous families.

Located in one of the Maldives’ most idyllic atolls, the resort will be one of the few exclusive properties in the area to offer guests an opportunity to completely immerse themselves in spectacular scenery and untouched nature. Many of the surrounding islands are still uninhabited.

“It’s no secret that the Maldives is a much sought after holiday destination that is still increasing in popularity and our spectacular resort represents a significant entry for Mövenpick into this world-renowned island hideaway,” said Chief Development Officer and Senior Vice President Asia, Andrew Langdon. “We look forward to introduce our guests of Mövenpick Resort & Spa Kuredhivaru Maldives to Mövenpick’s signature style, hospitality and service once it opens in 2018.”

Mövenpick Resort & Spa Kuredhivaru Maldives
Over Water Villas, Mövenpick Resort & Spa Kuredhivaru Maldives

Rich in marine life and excellent diving opportunities, the waters surrounding the resort will play an integral role in its appeal through a variety of above and underwater experiences. The resort will feature a comprehensive dive centre, beach sports activity centre, exclusive guest-only superyacht,  as well as a small-scale marine research centre and private marina.

The first Marine National Park (MNP) in the Maldives, which consists of a group of nine uninhabited islands commonly known as Edu Faru, is approximately 15 minutes from the resort via speedboat. The popular Christmas Tree Rock and Orimas Thila dive sites are also an easy boat ride away.

Exquisite culinary experiences are a cornerstone of the Mövenpick experience and the new Maldivian resort will offer five unique dining venues. Among these are a welcoming all-day dining restaurant, a speciality restaurant with sunset views, a seafood restaurant, a grill bar and private dining room for special occasions.  

Enticing wellness and recreational facilities will include a luxurious spa with 14 private treatment rooms. Other features include a tranquil yoga pavilion, a state of the art gym, water sports centre, volleyball and tennis courts. The resort will also have a business centre, library and retail boutique to further ensure guests enjoy a convenient and carefree stay.

International Tourism Film Festival Maldives “Following The Equator” 2nd Annual event at the Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives

The 2nd edition of International Tourism Film Festival Maldives is to be hosted by Sun Siyam Resorts. It is scheduled from 16th to 18th of November at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives. The concept being gathering talents of different ages, interests and backgrounds at one place. With the success of the first edition, we hope to have a much grand event this year, with international celebrities and media.

This year’s festival, extended over three days will be filled with special events which are impeccable in its entertaining and educating aspects. It is a platform for innovative work from both professionals and amateurs, in other words the perfect ground for networking.

Nomination Categories:

Tourism Destinations
Cultural Tourism
Environment & Eco-Tourism
Adventure Tourism
Ethnography & Society
Water
Cultural Connections
Hotels & Resorts
Tourism Services
National Productions (only for Maldivians)
Amateurs & Students (clips not more than 3 minutes)

Genres:

Documentary (not more than 60 minutes)
Promotional (not more than 15 minutes)
Commercials (not more than 60 seconds)

Program:

Master Classes
Opening Ceremony
Top Nominations
Competitions
Experts Discussion Open Forum
Closing Ceremony
Awards Party

An occasion such as this will unite all those with a deep love for art and tourism. We invite filmmakers and producers of all calibres to submit their content to be featured. The deadline to submit all entries is 21st July 2017. If you have not already, this is the perfect opportunity to show your creativity and share with the world your perception. Results will be communicated on 18th of September 2017.

About International Tourism Film Festival Maldives:

The International Tourism Film Festival Maldives brings together professionals, celebrities and guests from across the globe to share their passion for traveling and seeing the beauty of it, the love for art, tourism and sports.

Festival entries include movies about interesting and unique places all over the world.  Shedding light into the different cultures and histories of countries and their events: lasting from 1 to 13 minutes.

The first edition held in July 2016 witnessed celebrity figures including Ms. Yang Zi (Actress from China), Ms. Lizzie Cundy (British TV/radio presenter, showbiz, fashion & beauty advisor and model from UK), Ms. Mina Wattan Ramadhan Raheem (Socialite, social media influencer and a travel blogger from Middle East), Mr. Raul Richter (Actor, presenter and voice actor) from Germany with his fiancé  Ms. Valentina Pahde (Actress), Mr. Jumayyil (Maldivian Actor), Ms. Aishath Rishmy Rameez (Maldivian Actress) and Mr. Abdul Fathaah Abdul Gayoom (Maldivian Film Director) together with some amazing journalists from international media. The presence of CCTV6, a top TV channel from China, well-known tourism journalists from France, Italy, Middle East and Russia, and of course the local media of Maldives which included Public Service Media, Sun Media and Hotelier Maldives, have covered the 3-day event at Iru Fushi and made great news!

With contribution and sponsorship from major stakeholders in the industry the event was a great success. This year we anticipate the same at a grander level.

The 3-day event screens amazing clips from across the globe with breathtaking content related to tourism and nature. With an opening gala after cocktails at sunset, stretched over the magnificent beach and a grand finale showcasing the top nominees concludes with a grand dinner and awarding of winners.

The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives

The event takes place at the multi award winning property of Sun Siyam group, The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives, which is the flagship property within the group. Located in the unspoilt Noonu Atoll and set within 52 acres of white sands and exotic flora, here guests are immersed in a timeless culture. From the intuitive detail and personalised service that creates the most beautiful moments, to the sublime ambience that permeates each unforgettable taste, touch and experience. Since its brand launch in 2014 as The Sun Siyam, it has gained international recognition across the globe. The most recent ones include the award for the resort’s French Restaurant and Wine Cellar (Flavors) which received two global awards as the Best French Cuisine and Best Wine Selection, and the resort’s Spa (Spa by Thalgo) which received the Best Luxury Spa Resort in the Maldives at the first spa and restaurant gala event that was concluded at the exquisite 5-star Grand Hotel Kronenhof Pontresina, Switzerland, in June 2016. World Travel Awards have recognized the property as the winner for the Indian Ocean’s Leading Family Resort and Indian Ocean’s Best Resort Spa in 2016. It is also a winner at the World Luxury Hotel Awards.

The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives makes it the perfect venue to host the International Tourism Film Festival Maldives.

For more information on venue: www.thesunsiyam.com
For more information on festival: www.itffm.net

Kuredu Resort’s Celebrities: Wahhab

Kuredu is continuing its Celebrities series by putting the resort’s Excursions Supervisor in the spotlight.

We are pleased to feature Abdul Wahhab Abdul Rahman, known to colleagues and guests as Wahhab.

Wahhab joined Kuredu in 1990 and before becoming the resort’s Excursion Coordinator and later Excursions Supervisor, he had kicked off his Kuredu career by working in the kitchen and as a waiter.

Twenty-seven years later and Wahhab ensures the smooth running of all excursions that our guests join to explore beyond Kuredu. Whether you fancy romantic excursions, fishing ventures, atoll cruises or island hopping trips, Wahhab is the right person to turn to for advice on which excursion would be the most suitable for your desired holiday pace and interests. According to Wahhab, the excursion that guests enjoy the most is the full day sailing as it is really the Maldives in a nutshell; you get to see picture-perfect lagoons, sugar-white beaches, you pass by local islands, plus the odds of seeing dolphins in the wild are high. With a bit of luck, manta rays make an appearance and top off your snorkelling experience. Wahhab still reminisces on two extraordinary manta ray events: ‘I saw a massive manta, it was about 4 meters from wingtip to wingtip! And this time last year, my snorkellers and myself were surrounded by 32 mantas, I will never forget that day!’ One of Wahhab’s favourite snorkelling sites is Kuredu Caves, which is famous for its resident green sea turtle community.

‘I saw a massive manta, it was about 4 meters from wingtip to wingtip! And this time last year, my snorkellers and myself were surrounded by 32 mantas, I will never forget that day!’

Wahhab enjoys the peace and quiet that the evenings blanket the atoll with: ‘My favourite time to sail across the atoll at sunset, especially at full moon. Everyone who spends their holiday at Kuredu should join us for the Sunset Cruise, it’s such a pleasant trip, not to mention the pods of spinner dolphins that regularly come to show off their talents.’

When Wahhab is not cruising the atoll and guiding snorkellers across nearby coral reefs, he can be seen playing badminton or volleyball. ‘I love everything about Kuredu, but especially the good-quality accommodation, management and owners’ endeavours at making the resort a pleasant place to work, as well as the delicious food and the various recreation options.’

To thank him for his years-long dedication, Wahhab was invited by the management to attend the World Travel Market in London, to Singapore and to Bangkok, where the team got to expand their horizons in the various fields of hospitality, experience big city life and bond with colleagues from Kuredu and other CCR resorts.

Wahhab is one of Kuredu’s longest-serving team members, yet his personality traits haven’t changed all that much in these twenty-seven years. He remains modest and humble, with a great appreciation of the little things that make Kuredu a truly special place for guests and team alike: ‘If I only had twenty-four hours at the resort, I’d like to stay in one of the Garden Bungalows, go on a Sunset Cruise, indulge in rice and curry at Bonthi Restaurant and enjoy the peacefulness at Sai Kotari.

Outrigger Maldives’ Earth Day 2017 celebration

Earth Day is a set on a date on which events are held worldwide to increase awareness and appreciation of the earth’s natural environment. Earth Day is now coordinated globally by the Earth Day Network and is celebrated in more than 192 countries every year.

More than 1 billion people worldwide participated in green acts around the globe during the Earth every year, sending a powerful message for action on climate change.

Best Dives Maldives and Outrigger Ozone has decided to carry out acts of green thought on 22nd of April:

  • 15:00: Lagoon/reef and beach cleaning will be carried out in our house reef with the collaboration of any volunteer Guests and Outrigger staff to clear the area of floating debris or other trash from the sea bottom. All hard work paid off with fresh coconut. Best Dives Team will provide snorkelling equipment.
  • 16:00: Kids club activity: “Sand sculptures on the beach”.
  • 21:00: Movie “Home” by Yann Arthus-Bertrand at Ozone Lounge.

The key of the “Earth from Above” and of “Home” is to show the beauty of the planet, and thereby to promote love for it (Yann Arthus-Bertrand).

“What do we know about life on Earth? How many species are we aware of? A tenth of them? A hundredth perhaps? What do we know about the bonds that link them?

The Earth is a miracle. Life remains a mystery. Every species has a role to play, every species has its place. None is futile or harmful. They all balance out.

We will switch off for 1-hour non-essential lights, air conditioning units and other equipment. Our guests will be requested to support this act on a voluntary basis from 19:30 till 20:30 on 22 April 2017.

During this hour in the Host area’ playground write with candles:CARING OF OUR HOME-EARTH”.

Farm to pool at Six Senses Laamu

Six Senses Laamu features an organic garden where 40 different herbs, vegetables, salad leaves and micro-herbs are grown. Chef Martin and his culinary team have teamed up with the gardeners to create a daily-changing menu, entirely based on fresh and organic ingredients, served by the pool at Sip Sip.

The menu features a different starter, salad, pizza and dessert every day for guests to choose from. “The idea is to offer guests an additional healthy set of light dish options to enjoy by the pool with locally sourced ingredients. Everything is prepared simply with no addition of processed or modified foods,” says Martin, executive chef.

Chef Martin shares one of his favorite, so far, Farm to Pool recipes for Six Senses Laamu Garden Salad.

Mixed lettuce
Baby spinach
Micro herbs
Three carrot slices
Sliced red radish
Four avocado slices
Lemon Juice
Extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper
Flaxseed cracker

Wash and picked lettuce, spinach and micro herbs.
Make the dressing by mixing lemon juice, salt and pepper, slowly pour the olive oil.
Dress the lettuce and avocado, arrange in the bowl, garnish with micro herbs and flaxseed cracker.

For the flaxseed crackers

50 grams golden flaxseed
60 ml water

Pour the water over the flaxseed, mix and stir thoroughly.
Leave to sit for 10 to 15 minutes, stir regularly until the mix becomes thickened.
Spread the mix thinly over one dehydrator tray and score lightly with a spatula.
Dry for 12 to 36 hours.

From all the Farmers and Chefs at Six Senses Laamu: Meerukon’ Kaalacchey (Bon Appétit).

Chefs and gardening team working together, Six Senses Laamu
Chefs and gardening team working together, Six Senses Laamu

 

Six Senses Laamu Garden Salad, Six Senses Laamu
Six Senses Laamu Garden Salad, Six Senses Laamu

Six Senses Laamu is the only resort in the Laamu Atoll, deep in the Indian Ocean, surrounded by a beautiful coral house reef.

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 of 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 parlor, 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.

About Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas

Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas operates 11 resorts and 29 spas in 20 countries under the brand names Six Senses, Evason and Six Senses Spas. Aggressive development plans will triple the portfolio over the next five years with the resort, hotel and spa openings underway in Austria, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, Egypt, Fiji, France, India, Indonesia, Italy, Nicaragua, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates and the United States.

Six Senses operates resorts in far-flung locations of incredible natural beauty known for their distinctive and diverse design personalities. Each of the nine properties is supported by a leadership commitment to community, sustainability, wellness and design. Six Senses hotels which share the same vision and values found at their award-winning resorts will premiere in urban locations in 2019.

Six Senses Spas offers a wide range of holistic wellness, rejuvenation and beauty treatments administered under the guidance of expert therapists. Six Senses Spas are located in all Six Senses and Evason resorts; 18 additional standalone spas are located in prestigious hotels and resorts as well as the premier class lounges of two major airports.

Evason introduces a collection of two unique resorts that follow the Six Senses philosophy of uncompromised responsibility to sustainability and to the community. Family friendly, these properties also provide a strong value focus while offering a vast array of guest services and personal attention.

Kandima Maldives’ exclusive health retreats with Nick Knowles and Yogi Luke Bache

Relax, Reset and Evolve

Located on a lush tropical island in the Dhaalu Atoll, Kandima Maldives is just a thirty-minute flight from Male International Airport, followed by a twenty-minute boat ride to this seriously stunning island. From August 2017, Kandima will offer guests the unique opportunity to experience these exclusive new retreats with TV presenter Nick Knowles and yoga doyen Luke Bache – a yoga retreat like no other!

It’s called “Relax, Reset and Evolve” and will be personally hosted four times this year by Nick Knowles himself and the thoroughly experienced yoga therapy instructor Luke Bache.

The retreats will combine the very best of yoga in picture perfect paradise surroundings at the brand new Oh-so Stylish Kandima Maldives. For those who participate, it’ll be one of the best gifts they could ever give to themselves!

Every “Relax, Reset and Evolve” retreat is specifically designed to inspire necessary life changes, both mentally and physically and to give guests the tools to form new habits to enable them to change their lifestyle and balance going forward. Through yoga, cooking and inspiring talks on stress reduction, better focus and wellbeing, this week is a truly transformational experience.

Nick and Luke met last year on BBC’s ‘The Retreat’. At the time Nick was working too hard and feeling burned out. Naturally, this had affected his mental and physical health. Through yoga, meditation and healthy eating, he quickly felt profound benefits in his body and mind. These tools have continued to help Nick in his daily life and inspired his hit book, ‘Proper Healthy Food’.

Over MANY coconuts and vegetarian meals, Nick and Luke bonded over a shared passion and enthusiasm to help others, excitedly discussing how they could share this information with others in an accessible way. The result – Week long “Relax, Rest and Evolve” retreats at the newly opened Kandima Maldives.

With over fourteen years’ experience, Luke, an internationally experienced Yoga teacher, Therapeutic Yoga and Mindfulness consultant. He has studied with the best teachers from around the world, from shaolin masters in qi gong, Thai monks and the most experienced yoga teachers. He has carefully curated the retreats with Nick so that guests will get the maximum benefit from their week in at Kandima.

What the Week Looks Like:

Each morning begins with a therapeutic yoga class tailored to a specific part of the body. These classes finish with a short mindful meditation, further calming the mind and nervous system.

During the afternoon there will either be a mindful movement class for cardio or a ‘yin’ yoga class that works on the connective tissue, ligaments and tendons helping to work into those particularly tight areas.

Every evening, Nick and Luke will lead inspiring talks about health and wellness or a guided total body relaxation class.

In addition, during the week, guests on the retreat will also have two massages at ‘esKape,’ the Kandima spa and attend three cookery classes. Cookery classes will include visits to the ‘chefs’ garden’ to pick your fresh herbs and vegetables.

Book now to avoid disappointment, limited spaces available

Dates:

6th-13th August, 13th-20th August,
29th October -5th November and 5th-12th November 2017

Available from $3,800 (£3,340) per person, based on two sharing or $5,375 (£4,300) for single occupancy. Price includes all activities mentioned and full board accommodation.

Amilla Fushi elevates spa retreat concept to fresh heights

Tree-Top Treatment: Amilla Fushi elevates spa retreat concept to fresh heights with new wellness tree houses by bodyism

Imagine escaping to an island home away from home, a uniquely serene wellness retreat surrounded only by lush swaying palms and endless tropical skies. Ascending to a private, pampering haven 12 metres up amongst the treetops, letting the cares of the bustling world fall away and succumbing to a revitalizing, blissful reverie where recharging and recovery are paramount. Wellness wishful thinking? Not at Amilla Fushi: an exclusive collaboration between this luxury Maldives resort and global healthy living phenomenon Bodyism has borne spectacular fruit, with the creation of the idyllic island’s new Wellness Tree Houses by Bodyism.

Tree House, Amilla Fushi
Tree House, Amilla Fushi

The new Wellness Tree Houses are private one-bedroom spa ‘nests’ with their own dedicated treatment suites, high in the treetops, where guests can enjoy a uniquely personal, inclusive wellness experience delivered by Bodyism Performance Specialists. After a personal ‘Body Oracle’ consultation, the Bodyism team helps Wellness Tree House guests to create their own programme from an integrated menu of Javvu Spa treatments and Bodyism fitness and wellness classes designed to re-establish energy flows, revive the mind, increase circulation and create a foundation for balance and health. Rates also include full board meals – and minibar snacks – from a specially designed Clean and Lean menu.

In addition to a private treetop treatment suite, the contemporary and sleek air-conditioned 220 sqm Wellness Tree Houses also feature their own cantilevered infinity pools looking out over the tree canopy; an indoor living room area with sofa and work desk; a spacious bathroom and outdoor showers. Guests who decide against a complete digital detox can also enjoy a 42 inch flat-screen TV and satellite channels.

Wellness Tree House, Amilla Fushi

The launch of the new Wellness Tree Houses and Amilla Fushi Maldives Spa Resort recently announced an exclusive partnership with Bodyism, follow hot on the heels of the opening of Amilla’s ‘spa village’, Javvu Spa, in October 2015. Situated under a canopy of banyan trees at the heart of the island, Javvu features 10 private 48 sqm treatment pods, a large open-plan fitness centre, contemporary personal training studio and outdoor ‘jungle gym’ – all overlooking the Indian Ocean. Yoga, pilates, meditation and pranayama are led on the spa jetty over the lagoon, while a buzzy, shaded communal space provides a sociable hub complete with interactive shopping, lifestyle consultations and the new Island Café by Clean and Lean.

Javvu’s holistic approach is founded on the three pillars of wellness – Movement, Spirituality and Spa. The integrated menu features results-driven spa treatments from a carefully edited selection of world-class brands; Bodyism wellness and fitness programmes and sessions using both the natural environment and the latest high-tech gym equipment; and ancient healing and energy therapies.

Located just 30 minutes by seaplane from Malé International, Amilla Fushi offers a choice of 54 Island Homes that hover over crystal clear waters, nestled among lush tree tops or hug the shores of pristine white sand; plus eight spectacular four- to eight-bedroom Beach Residences ideally suited to large families, groups of friends and VVIPs seeking the ultimate in space and privacy. Internationally renowned chef and restaurateur Luke Mangan heads up Amilla’s innovative restaurants, from the diverse, informal foodie hub Bazaar to the relaxed yet sophisticated overwater dining at the signature Lonu by Luke Mangan. Guests can even drop in o gourmet café and deli The Emperor General Store or The Wine Shop & Cellar Door to treat themselves to lighter snacks, a favourite bottle or a gourmet selection of artisanal cheeses. With an unrivalled range of purpose-designed multi-bedroom accommodation options and an exciting, inspiring and active Kids’ Club, Amilla Fushi is putting the Maldives on the map as a destination not just for couples, but for families and friends.

For more information or to book the Wellness Tree House by Bodyism package please visit http://www.amilla.mv/wellness-tree-house.

Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort Announces a Diverse Programme of Easter Family Fun

The resort’s new semi-submarine for underwater viewing and a marine education zone made from recycled materials show the best of the Maldives’ marine environment in the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll

A big choice of activities or relaxation this Easter at the Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort
A big choice of activities or relaxation this Easter at the Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort

The Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort has announced a thoughtful and varied programme of activities for families looking for a fantastic beach holiday in the tropics this Easter.

The Outrigger in the Maldives has also introduced a new semi-submarine for underwater viewing.

The staff have also created an ‘OZONE’ (Outrigger’s zone) marine education space from recycled materials under supervision of the resort’s full-time marine biologist.

“This Easter the Outrigger is a one-stop retreat for tropical holiday beach relaxation with an optional marine education twist,” says the resort’s General Manager John Allanson.

Here are the details:

An ‘Egg-selent’ Easter Programme

The Outrigger has hatched an egg-selent Easter programme of activities 14-17 April. The activities have been designed to satisfy adults, teens and kids alike.

The resort’s Coral Kids Club will invite youngsters to partake in Easter face painting, egg hunts, egg and spoon races, banana boat rides, Easter egg decoration, and kids’ movies on the beach.

Adults can chill and do sweet nothing or get in the Easter spirit with body and soul activities such as morning meditation or yoga, couples massage workshop, dolphin quest, sunrise or sunset fishing, Asian food festival on the beach, sunset cruises, and marine education talks at the pool bar with the resort’s marine biologist.

Teens may also like activities such as discover scuba diving, beat the management at foosball, try the stand-up board balance challenge, or join water polo with guests and staff.

And there is great food from executive chef Christopher Long and his kitchen, including an Asian food festival on the beach, a surf and turf BBQ and an introduction to Japanese food at Nala Rah with chef Endar.

There’s also a full list of  ‘out of the ordinary stuff’ such as local island excursions, equator cruises, surfing, renewal of vows, a castaway island experience and more.

For a full list of activities click here. For more information or to book contact your tour operator or the resort. Tel: +960 684 7770. Email: [email protected].

See the Underwater World of the Maldives – While Staying Dry

The semi-submersible submarine gets guests up close to the underwater world of the Maldives
The semi-submersible submarine gets guests up close to the underwater world of the Maldives

The Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort has introduced a 14-seat semi-submarine for viewing coral reefs and spotting local marine life such as manta rays, Hawksbill turtles, large shoals of fusiliers and the occasional friendly shark.

The daylight tour explores the beautiful house reef of Konotta. During the night tour fishes camouflage themselves reducing the brightness of their colour, assuming the hues of the barrier reef. With the semi-submarine’s fluo-light guests have the possibility to observe sea creatures usually invisible to the naked eye. Once back to the reef, schools of fish attracted by the night lights will surround the vessel: fusiliers, sometimes sharks or even some squid can be seen.

The semi-submersible submarine interior
The semi-submersible submarine interior

The semi-submarine makes its local excursions at the Outrigger at Konotta every Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and costs USD95++ for the day time trip &  USD110++ for the night trip.

Further information: Tel: +960 684 7770. Email: [email protected]

For Guests: A Special Place for Marine Knowledge Created by Staff

The sustainable OZONE Hut – made for presentations and talks on marine life at the OutriggerOutrigger Resorts has a global marine conservation programme called OZONE (Outrigger’s zone). Inspired by the initiative, staff at the Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort have created The OZONE Hut, an educational workspace to organise environmental campaigns and give presentations about the importance of preserving the underwater habitat of the Indian Ocean.

The OZONE Hut was built by the resort’s hosts in their spare time using recycled items such as used plywood, dried thatch from palm trees and old glass bottles. There are displays on the wall of different kinds of marine life.

“It’s a home-grown initiative to boost understanding and spread appreciation for the beauty of the underwater world of the Maldives,” says Caterina Fattori, the marine biologist of Best Dives Maldives who is based full-time on the island.

The sustainable OZONE Hut – made for presentations and talks on marine life at the OutriggerThe new OZONE Hut will be used for talks and presentations to guests interested in the marine ecology of the Maldives.  

For further information about the Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort tel: +960 684 7770. Email: [email protected]. Or click here.