Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort Wins ‘Best Resort’ Award

The Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort has won “Best Resort” in the Travel Weekly Asia 2016 Readers Choice Awards.

The stunning 53 all-pool villa resort in the south of the Maldives has wowed visitors since it opened in August 2015.

The award “honours the ‘best of the best’ in the travel industry,” said Travel Weekly Asia Group Publisher, Irene Chua.

Outrigger Resort Vice President Sales & Marketing, Mark Simmons, received the award on behalf of the property at the Readers Choice Awards ceremony in Singapore, 17 October.

Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort
Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort

The General Manager of the resort, Mr John Allanson, said: “Outrigger is very proud of the latest accolade for the Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort. We dedicate it to our hard working hosts who treat all guests as part of the Outrigger family.”

Comprising 29 Beach Pool Villas, 21 Ocean Pool Villas, two Lagoon Pool Villas and the masterful three-bedroom Grand Konotta Villa, the Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort offers a complete sense of privacy and intimate luxury. The Outrigger has the largest average villa sizes in the Maldives.

Each winner in the awards was voted for by Travel Weekly Asia readers, a group comprising professionals from different specialties and expertise within the travel industry.

In December 2015, the Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort also won the “Luxury Contemporary Resort of the Year,” in the Luxury Travel Guide Global Awards.

Outrigger was also hailed for the way it went about acquiring the resort. In October 2015 the property won first place for Single Asset Transaction of the Year in the Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific Deal of the Year Awards.

The private island of Konotta is located 211 miles (340 kilometers) to the south of Malé and is accessible via a 55-minute flight from Malé to Kaadedhdhoo Airport followed by a scenic 30-minute journey on a luxurious private speedboat.

Festive Season in Elegant Style

Recognising that guests of refinement relish a hassle-free holiday where personalised attention to their needs is paramount, Baros Maldives presents the perfect choice, with this season’s holiday theme being “Enjoying Island Elegance.”

Gold and white are the colours chosen for this year’s festivities, to reflect the grandeur of the occasion and the purity of the season of new beginnings.

The Festive Season begins at Baros on Thursday 22 December 2016 and celebrations continue until Monday 2 January 2017. A Festive Season Diary will be available in every Villa for guests to plan their activities.

There will be memorable experiences including discovering Baros at sea with guided snorkelling tours, coral gardening, and dolphin-watching cruises, and enjoying Baros on land with nature walks, sandbank cocktails, champagne and wine tastings, gourmet and gala dinners and jazz under the stars. In addition, there will be escorted island exploration tours and a shopping visit to Malé. A special treat is the bliss of being pampered in the Spa with a seductive Elegant Island Harmony ritual.

There will also be a unique Maldivian experience for dinner in the Palm Garden on 25 December and a Countdown Party with a band and fireworks on the deck of the Lime infinity swimming pool on 31 December. For early risers on 1 January 2017, there is a grand New Year Day’s breakfast. Jazz and cool music under the stars are featured on some evenings while the Sheesha and Cigar Lounge is open every night.

Milestone of 1,000,000th Visitor of Visit Maldives Year 2016

Achieving yet another milestone of Visit Maldives Year 2016, Maldives proudly welcomed the one millionth visitor of 2016 today at Ibrahim Nasir International Airport. Mrs. Alefiya Merchant from India who arrived on Air India flight this afternoon with her husband Mr. Ali Asgar Godhrawala for their honeymoon in Maldives was warmly welcomed by H. E. Akhilesh Mishra, the High Commissioner of India to the Maldives, Mr. Hussain Lirar and Mr. Shazail Shiyam, Deputy Ministers of Tourism, Mr. Haris Mohamed, Acting Managing Director of Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) and other senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism, MMPRC, Maldives Airports Company Limited and representatives of the tourism industry.

Upon arrival, they were welcomed at the arrival terminal by officials from MMPRC, Department of Immigration and Maldives Airports Company Ltd, from where they were escorted to the VIP lounge in a procession of traditional Boduberu performance.

1,000,000th Visitor of Visit Maldives Year 2016
1,000,000th Visitor of Visit Maldives Year 2016

H.E. Akhilesh Mishra, Indian High Commissioner awarded them with a commemorative plaque. A special gift was also awarded by Mr. Haris Mohamed, Managing Director of MMPRC. The Lucky honeymoon couple also received a complimentary holiday package from Hurawalhi Resort. The prize was presented by Mr. Shazail Shiyam, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Ms. Cherry Zhuang, Sales and Marketing Manager of Crown and Champa Resorts.

Since the grand welcoming of the first visitor of Visit Maldives Year in the early morning of the 1st of January, milestones of reaching 500,000th and 750,000th were colourfully celebrated.

An Indian National being the distinguished one millionth visitor is of great significance to the Maldives providing a great opportunity to promote the Maldives as a tourist destination to the Indian market. India is a rapidly growing market having attained its position within the top ten single source markets climbing up to reaching amongst the top 5 source markets to the Maldives. Arrivals from India show a positive growth of 21.5% from January to July when compared to the same period in 2015. During this period in 2016 a total of 34,884 Indian tourists are recorded to have arrived in Maldives.

Equator Village

Located on Addu Atoll’s former Royal Air Force (RAF) base, while RAF airstrip now being Gan International Airport,  this lush garden by the azure sea is alive with culture, history, nature and mystery.

Equator Village resort, named after being located 64 Km south of the equator, the resort provides guests with comfort and relaxation, offering easy access to nature’s finest. A tropical haven of old English charm delightfully mixed with the unique beauty of Southern Maldives, Equator Village is not your typical Maldives resort.

78 lovely bungalows opening into a lush courtyard garden. Spacious and cool, designed with simple European elegance, each bungalow has it’s own verandah overlooking the tropical blooms.

Opening to overlook the surrounding gardens, the Blue Lagoon Restaurant offers buffets of Western, Oriental and Eastern Asian and local cuisine. The wonderfully light and airy atmosphere, teamed with our friendly experienced staff makes every meal a warm welcoming addition to your holiday.

Just the right distance from the pool, restaurant and entertainment room, the Veragan Bar lights up the area in cheerfully warm splendor. A good selection of all-inclusive drinks is marked easily for your convenience. This is a place to relax, chill and swap stories with fellow travelers.

In water, on land or indoors there’s plenty of activities to engage yourself in. The large swimming pool has it’s own pool bar and overlooks the ocean. A wide variety of activities are available including mountain bicycles to tour the islands.

Diverland is a PADI 5 star Dive Centre that has been operating in Maldives since 1986. The Diverland Team takes you to the best dive spots in Maldives including the largest wreck dive site in the Maldives; a cargo shipwreck from 1946 – The British Loyalty. Manta can be seen all year round, and Addu is the only place in Maldives where Manta rays with over 5-meter wings spans are known to exist.

Four islands linked together by causeways. From Gan through Feydhoo, Maradhoo, and to the capital Hithadhoo. Three more islands – Meedhoo and Hithadhoo and Bushy island is a ferry ride away. Equator excursions are set to explore all of them in their natural and historical beauty.

Serena Spa offers a wide selection of aromatic oils, and age-old treatments to sooth your mind and body. Ancient Ayurvedic therapies, beauty treatments and packages specially designed to completely revive and revitalize all your senses after a day in the sun.

Guests will enjoy the facilities offered by the hotel, such as the large swimming pool which offers access to the beach, table tennis, volleyball, squash, snorkeling, and a tennis court. The unique part about this hotel is that guests have direct access to local villages, making it easy for guests to get a good glimpse of the Maldivian culture. Pick Equator Village Resort as your choice of stay when visiting Maldives for an unforgettable experience.

Adduan Returns To His Roots to Run Equator Village Resort

When he was 24, Mohamed Waheed of Feydhoo, Addu City, made a trip that thousands of people from his southern atoll home have made before him: he got on a boat and sailed for Malé.

The capital’s economic heft has drawn Maldivians from across the archipelago for generations – something that Malé’s rampant overcrowding can attest. Once people make the trip to Malé, they normally stay there. But bucking this trend, Waheed has returned home.

On 1 September, he was appointed as Resort Manager at Equator Village in Gan. Waheed has joined an elite club of Maldivians who have worked their way up the career ladder to the rank of resort manager – the most senior position in any hotel.

Waheed started his career as a trainee receptionist at Villingili Beach Resort in 1986 before the island was converted from a resort into a suburb island of Malé. He then held numerous positions in resorts, rising to become Front Office Manager, then Assistant Manager and finally Assistant Resort Manager at Summer Island Maldives.

Kaimoo resorts, which own both Summer Island Maldives and Equator Village, then offered Waheed his dream job: as Resort Manager back home in Addu.

Commenting on his new job, Mohamed Waheed said:

“It’s such a privilege to return to Addu as a resort manager, more than 30 years since I left home. I hope other Maldivians, who have left their homes for Malé, also think about returning to help develop and improve their home islands.

“Addu has so much potential, especially in tourism: the atoll has Maldives’ best diving and you can explore the atoll on a bicycle thanks to the link road. I’m really looking forward to managing Equator Village and building on its success.”

Commenting on the appointment, Mohamed Manih Ahmed, Managing Director of Kaimoo THS Group said:

“Mr. Waheed has been a mainstay at Summer with two decades of distinguished service, and I understand his absence would be significantly felt on the island. I offer our congratulations. I am sure he will bring the same enthusiasm, dedication and vigor he has displayed at Summer to Equator.”

Equator Village is located in Gan, an island with an interesting colonial history. From 1956 – 1976 Gan was a British Royal Air Force Base, and many British servicemen and women who served there often return to the island to visit. They nearly always stay at Equator Village.

The resort is located in what used to be the RAF Sergeant’s Mess, and the hotel’s grounds still retain a unique colonial charm, with large trees, manicured lawns and English-style flower gardens.

Addu’s appeal isn’t just history, though: the diving here is some of the best in the Maldives. The Atoll’s best dive spot is arguably a shipwreck called British Loyalty. It was a fuel tanker that was attacked by the Germans during the Second World War. The ship’s sinking was the only known attack in the Maldives for the war’s duration. The unexplored caves, all year round manta ray sighting makes Addu one of the most spectacular dive atolls in the Maldives.

Addu also allows tourists to cycle from island to island via the link road, offering them a unique opportunity to experience Maldivian towns and villages, as well as go off the beaten track and seek out deserted beaches. Addu’s “Eedhigali Kilhi”, one of the largest mangroves in the Maldives is an environmentally protected area and a beautiful area for bird watching. Equator Village offers bicycles for guests to explore the atoll.

Today, the Equator Village has 78 spacious, simple and garden view bungalows. The hotel has a restaurant, poolside bar and a large swimming pool that overlooks the ocean. A wide variety of activities are available including squash, table tennis, tennis, and live music. The Serena Spa offers a wide selection of aromatic oils and wellness packages are available to sooth your mind and body.

Hotel Jen Malé Maldives organizes free medical day in conjunction with World Heart Day for the staffs

Hotel Jen Malé Maldives by Shangri-la the popular hotel among tourists and businessmen in the heart of the capital city Malé, recently organized a Health Awareness Campaign in conjunction with World Heart Day 2016 for its employees as part of its initiative on corporate social responsible programs. In Partnership with IGMH Hospital Cardiac Dr. Ayesha Zara Naseem gave a highly comprehensive presentation on the importance of healthy living, diet and exercise to the employees who attended the seminar.

The campaign tackled about the causes of unhealthy routine which is mainly due to hectic work schedules and fast paced life, health is often neglected. Hence, Dr. Ayesha reminded that the best approach and easy method to maintaining a healthy lifestyle is to plan out strategies which include a balanced diet, healthy eating habits and doing physical activities.

Dr. Ayesha also emphasized that a balanced diet includes maintaining low intake of salt and trans fats found in fast food and to include an aerobic routine or walking schedule daily to boost heart and physiological functions as well as to help reduce stress levels. Some of the significant benefits of having a healthy lifestyle include decrease risk of diabetics, blood pressure, heart disease, cholesterol and certain cancers.

Mr. Zafer Agacan General Manager of Hotel Jen Malé Maldives said: “As the success of an organization is directly related to the health and welfare of its employees, Hotel Jen Malé Maldives conducts a series of programs every year to educate and promote health. In our present day lifestyle, health is a factor that if often overlooked. However, as Dr. Ayesha pointed out, if corrective measures are actively implemented, such as healthy living, intake of a wholesome diet and inclusion of an active and regular exercise regimen, one can definitely maintain good health of body and mind.

The seminar brought together hotel management and staff across all departments who are reminded with the old passage ‘Health is Wealth’ which means a healthy body means a healthy lifestyle.

The seminar also included health checkup for the employees of Hotel Jen Malé Maldives which was provided for them free and which witnessed an enthusiastic response from the staffs and encouraging them to do regular check up to stay healthy and live a healthy lifestyle.

Dr. Ayesha and Hotel Jen Malé Maldives indicated the need to implement the recommendations of such awareness camps and seminars underlines the importance of regular check-ups to detect problems that can be easily remedied and to make sure that the staff’s health is perfectly monitored.

Hotel staffs expressed their appreciation for the initiative of this day’s organization that confirms the commitment to their health and enhance communication and affiliation means.

Shangri-La and its properties are well knowns for the part in corporate social responsibility and raising awareness and contributing and conducting initiative awareness programs every year for their guest’s staffs and the society.

MATATO signs as Associate Partner for Travel Trade Show of Maldives

Maldives Association of Travel Agents & Tour Operators (MATATO) has signed a MOU with Maldives Getaways Pvt Ltd to become an Associate Partner for first international Travel Trade Show of Maldives (TTM).

Travel Trade Maldives (TTM) is the platform that connects the travel trade community of the Maldives to the global network of travel agents easily and instantly. Staged annually in Maldives, TTM will be the leading global event for the luxury travel trade industry of Maldives. It will be a vibrant must attend business-to-business event presenting a diverse range of hoteliers to local & International travel professionals.

TTM aims to facilitate the tourism industry of Maldives to reach the ultimate target of 2 million tourists with over $3.5 billion in receipts by the end of 2020. More than 300 hoteliers, suppliers, related industries and travel professionals from Maldives and abroad are expected to visit TTM to network, negotiate and discover the latest industry opinion and trends in Maldives.

SPEED NETWORKING

Speed networking sessions bring together exhibitors and selected buyers in one-to-one meeting sessions. TTM will arrange meetings for up to 20 minutes to facilitate constructive meetings which will produce results! You can use this time to not only exchange cards and introduce but to brief products and services, discuss prices and even explore ways to work in the future.

The Venue & Dates

TTM 2017 will be held in Dharubaaruge, Male’ Maldives. TTM 2017 will be held in July 2017 from morning till evening, promising two full days of serious business.

Events & Facilities

Travel Talks – These are interactive talk sessions presented by the leading industry stakeholders of Maldives and the international travel market. These stakeholders are renowned professionals, industry experts, specialists and achievers, and research authors of the markets. The sessions will be scheduled in a flow that will not disrupt the meetings, ensuring not only business but a learning experience.

Predesigned state-of-the-art booths – Booths at TTM will be spaced and designed to meet the sole objective of hosting productive meetings. The booths will be equipped with all the necessary equipment and comfortable furniture to ensure the perfect environment.

Business Centre – TTM2017 will feature a comprehensive Business Centre with the perfect environment for buyers and exhibitors to network and hold additional meetings with prospected partners. The centre will include amenities and facilities such as concierge service, printing and photocopying, free Internet and Wi-Fi, luggage storage, phone charging stations, etc.

Meal and Refreshment Zone – The show will feature a trendy full scale meal and refreshment zone serving a rich variety of foods and drinks for the participants.

Photo and Art Gallery – TTM will feature a photo and art gallery that will exhibit the finest works of leading professional photographers and artists related to the travel and tourism world. The gallery will communicate breathtaking tales about Maldives, the history and the future of the tourism industry.

Closing Gala Event – TTM will host a VIP Closing Gala Event to mark the closing celebrations of the event. The Gala Event will feature keynote speakers who are international hospitality veterans; gift exchanging; a classy dinner with rich and exotic Maldivian tastes; live music by leading artists; and of course the opportunity to network with the highest executives, decision makers, and market shapers of the industry.

TTM Magazine – An official magazine of TTM will be published in English with a total of 3000 copies freely distributed at the event & other international travel trade shows. This magazine will include exhibitor profile, visitor profiles, and partner’s profiles and other important information regarding the Maldives as a tourism hub.

EXHIBITOR PROFILES

Resort and Hotels Chains and individual Resorts and Hotels, National and State Government Agencies, Industry Service Providers, Financial Institutions, Business/Luxury Travel Agents and Tour Operators, Destination Marketing and PR Companies, Insurance Companies, Marine and Land Transport Companies, Airlines; and News and Media Corporations.

VISITOR PROFILES

International Business/Luxury Travel Agents and Tour Operators, Destination Marketing and PR Companies, Travel Bloggers, Airlines; and News and Media Corporations.

TOTAL PARTICIPANTS

150 International Travel Agents & local travel agents
100 Resorts/Hotels
50 Partners/Journalists/Bloggers/PR Specialists/Media

For more details, please contact :
+960 3011720 | [email protected] | www.traveltrademaldives.com

Four Seasons Resort Maldives At Kuda Huraa Announces Launch of Game-Changing Water Villas

Embrace an evolution in over-water living

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa unveils its brand new all-villa water accommodations – the country’s ultimate lagoon sanctuaries – in December 2016.

Completely renovated, refurbished and extended throughout, each vast oceanic haven has its own private 24 square metre (260 square foot) infinity pool, accessible through sliding glass doors from a brand new day bed alcove in the master bedroom.

New Water Villas, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa

But that’s not all. At the furthermost end of each villa’s vastly extended wooden sun deck – past the loungers and huge over-water sunbathing net – an open-air pavilion takes the notion of overwater living to the very edge with a shaded sofa area, dining table for four, over-lagoon hammocks and steps into the warm crystal lagoon dotted with fish and corals.

Available with one, two or three bedrooms, each ocean-top retreat is spaced widely for privacy along wither the sunset or sunrise side of Kuda Huraa’s long water villa jetty.

New Water Villas, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa

In addition to the daybed alcove and air-conditioned lounge area, internal highlights include a naturally lit walk-through wardrobe corridor and a huge marble bathroom complete with separate shower cubicle and freestanding ocean-view tub.

Contemporary interiors are inspired by the vibrant garden-fresh colours of Kuda Huraa and complemented by cool timber flooring. A handmade Maldivian thatch roof and distinctive architectural detailing draw on the traditions of generations of local craftsmen to complement the Resort’s sense of place. And upgraded in-room technology includes IPTV, full stereo system and 55-inch screen and espresso machine.

New Water Villas, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa

“We feel really proud to be putting Kuda Huraa on the map again with these exceptional over-water accommodations,” commented the Resort’s General Manager Randy Shimabuku. “We know guests will love the extra space and innovative touches but when combined with our wonderful surf and dive options, new Island Spa sea sanctuary and baby turtle-rearing pools, we hope to be able to immerse them in the deepest possible marine-inspired experience that the Maldives has to offer.”

To be one of the first to experience Kuda Huraa’s new Water Villas contact the central reservations department of Four Seasons Resorts Maldives at tel: (960) 66 00 888, email: [email protected] or book online.

New Water Villas, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa

See The Maldives In A New Light At LUX* South Ari Atoll

World-renowned luxury resort and hotel operator LUX* Resorts & Hotels is known for a different style of holidaying – a lighter, brighter way of celebrating life – and its newest resort LUX* South Ari Atoll opened last week in the Maldives.

The brand’s latest five-star resort has been entirely reimagined, with a chic beach-house style. Innovative and trendsetting, it features a contemporary atmosphere while protecting the cocooned tropical island atmosphere. LUX* South Ari Atoll is not just about luxury and aesthetics: it’s a resort with a soul. Playful, fun, modern this is paradise ­­­for travellers looking for a distinctive experience in the Maldives.

Temptation Pool Water Villa, LUX* South Ari Atoll
Temptation Pool Water Villa, LUX* South Ari Atoll

Dotted at the water’s edge along two miles of pure white sand beach and perched on stilts above a crystal-clear lagoon, are 193 super-spacious pavilions and villas designed by P49 Deesign. The seductive flood-lit over-water villas promise freedom, privacy and intimacy. 46 Romantic Pool Villas each have private 7m suspended infinity pools, and three Temptation Pool Water Villas boast a 14m pool and this forms the resort’s adults-only sanctuary. These villas enjoy twin showers, private terraces incorporating a unique couples’ love nest, and a deck with steps down into the sea, perfect for enjoying the turquoise blue waters of the Indian Ocean.

Temptation Pool Water Villa, LUX* South Ari Atoll
Temptation Pool Water Villa, LUX* South Ari Atoll

The spectacular range of eight restaurants and five bars includes a sophisticated take on a bustling night market; guests can head to East Market where they can enjoy flavours from Vietnam, Thailand and Sichuan among others. Umami promises fine dining from the open sushi kitchen, teppanyaki and robata counters as well as the Maldives’ largest selection of sakés and Japanese whiskies. Allegria, Senses and MIXE satisfy international palates with Mediterranean to Maldivian specialities and the new Beach Rouge introduces fresh beach club dining experience to the island. Visit www.luxresorts.com/en/hotel-maldives/luxsouthariatoll for more information.

Umami, LUX* South Ari Atoll
Umami, LUX* South Ari Atoll

The LUX* Me spa and its overwater treatment villas set the tone for a Zen-inspired reboot of its own. The facility incorporates a traditional Chinese teahouse, a dedicated zone for brand new skin and body care experiences and an extended lagoon-view relaxation area. For those in search of the ultimate personalised spa experience, try the once-in-a-lifetime 10 hands massage. A Zen wellness pavilion accommodates a wide range of alternative wellbeing activities including yoga, meditation, pilates, tai chi and qigong, all of which are overseen by an expert wellness concierge. LUX* Me is all about a tailored approach to your wellbeing, whether it be spa, fitness, yoga, meditation, nutrition or a unique combination tailored especially to your needs.

Graced by one of Maldives’ most spectacular lagoon of crystal-clear waters, LUX* South Ari Atoll offers the finest choice of water sports of any Maldives’ five-star resort. LUX* was the first to offer flyboarding and hoverboarding and once again introduced the Maldives’ first: jet-surfboarding. No wonder the resort is referenced as #ThePlacetoBeMaldives.

LUX* South Ari Atoll promises a lighter, brighter, more enlightening holiday experience. Stay tuned for events worth travelling around the world for as Beach Rouge, the East Market, and even a sandbank hosting music and culinary celebrations. Where else can guests dance to a DJ with their toes dipped in the warm ocean or taste the best of South-East Asia in a suspended over-the-water night market?

East Market, LUX* South Ari Atoll
East Market, LUX* South Ari Atoll
Beach Rouge at sunset, LUX* South Ari Atoll
Beach Rouge at sunset, LUX* South Ari Atoll

Paul Jones, CEO of LUX* Resorts & Hotels confides: “The focus around the creation of a new LUX* South Ari Atoll has been as much about the transformation of the property as it has been about the enhancement of the guests’ experiences. For this, our team has worked effortlessly on enriching the moments that matters, and we have created new and exciting Reasons To Go LUX*. I am convinced that places you remember are the ones that inspire you; those that have a soul and caring people. LUX* South Ari Atoll has this magical mix.”

LUX* South Ari Atoll will of course include all of LUX*’s popular features and Reasons To Go LUX* including a LUX* Me Spa, a dive centre with a property marine biologist, a Café LUX*, ICI ice-creams, a gym, a kids’ club, organic gardens, a Tree of Wishes and an outdoor Cinema Paradiso to name a few.

Café LUX*, LUX* South Ari Atoll
Café LUX*, LUX* South Ari Atoll

On top of that, the opening of this new resort was the perfect opportunity for the brand to present a series of more Reasons To Go LUX*. Stay at a conventional resort, and before long you know where everything is. That doesn’t happen at LUX*. Spontaneity and surprises are in our DNA with the new Reasons To Go LUX* making a debut at LUX* South Ari Atoll this month.

  • LUX* Photo Fanatics — LUX* means light, and so it is also in spirit, so it should come as little surprise that LUX* is a brand that loves the art of photography. Introducing Photo Fanatics, a unique image-capturing experience that will help guests seeking to create and capture the moments that matter, using a smartphone or a traditional camera or SLR.
  • Junkart Studio & Gallery — Many regret the lack of time during their everyday lives to learn a new skill or revive a forgotten hobby.       
  • LUX*  believes that a vacation can be the perfect time to explore something new or revisit old skills and passions. Guests at LUX* are invited  to have fun making one-off artworks and sustainable souvenirs from upcycled materials.
  • Wanderlust Library — Make up for that last-minute pre-holiday book buy at the airport or magazine selection limited by how much your hand luggage can take. LUX* understands the desire to try new things, especially on holiday. To encourage this LUX* has curated the ultimate collection of books and magazines, to be enjoyed in a cocooned air-conditioned place which will stimulate your travel senses and expand your horizons.
  • Masterchef — The joy of cooking and the fun of the whole family getting involved is unrivalled. Cook with a professional chef and take home some new tricks.

The remodelling of LUX* South Ari Atoll doesn’t just mean a contemporary, characterful new look; guests can also expect a remarkable and insightful cultural calendar. Entirely new for the Maldives, LUX* South Ari Atoll hosts short expert-led workshops throughout the year, with leading practitioners from diverse, creative and inspiring walks of life. It’s always a privilege to spend time with inspiring individuals who are happy to share their unique wisdom and skills.

The brand vision is to offer our guests different luxury hospitality experience; helping people celebrate life, by making each moment matter. In this context, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy themselves with a series of workshops which could reveal innate talents, hidden talents.

The workshops are as varied as they are numerous. There are painting lessons with Jeannine Platz, a motivation workshop with Ron Kaufman, food art with Samantha Lee and photography with world-renowned travel photographer Michel Freeman. For the ones looking for some healthy and fitness options, this has also been taken care of with masterclasses from fitness guru Anna Victoria, and also the opportunity to explore underwater with the freediving world record holder William Winram. For more information, visit www.luxresorts.com/en/hotel-maldives/luxsouthariatoll

What makes LUX* South Ari Atoll so special is its spirit, team members, and entirely different approach to helping you have the best-ever holiday. LUX* promises a journey for the senses, where – in true LUX* style – you can expect the unexpected.

Singapore’s Park Hotel Group to open Grand Park Kodhipparu in 2017

Singapore’s Chip Eng Seng Corporation Ltd (CES) and Park Hotel Group announced today that they have entered into a Joint Venture Agreement to invest in a resort project in the Maldives.

Under the Agreement, CEL Development Pte Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of CES holds an interest of 70% while Grand Park Maldives Pte Ltd, a member of Park Hotel Group owns the remaining 30%.

The joint venture has entered into a Sales and Purchase Agreement for the Maldives resort with Kodhipparu Investment Private Limited for US$65 million. The transaction was brokered by JLL’s Hotels and Hospitality Group as the exclusive advisor to the vendor.

The joint venture also marks the appointment of Park Hotel Group to manage Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives, scheduled to open in the 2nd quarter of 2017. The 120 all-villas Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives is Park Hotel Group’s second partnership with CES, following the hotel Management Agreement for Park Hotel Alexandra which opened last year.

Executive Chairman of CES, Mr Raymond Chia said, “We are delighted to acquire Chip Eng Seng’s first resort property in Maldives as part of the Group’s strategy to expand our Hospitality Investment portfolio. We are confident that our partnership with Park Hotel Group, one of the most established and fast expanding Asian hospitality brands, will be a winning formula as we aim to continue our successful partnership following the opening of our first hotel, Park Hotel Alexandra. We believe we will create a new and very special hospitality experience for our guests when the resort opens in 2017.”

Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives is located on the North Malé Atoll and 15 minutes’ speedboat ride from the Malé International Airport. Designed by the world-renowned hospitality design firm, Hirsch Bedner Associates, the luxury resort features 120 idyllic villas comprising a range of beachfront pool villas, overwater villas with direct access to the crystal-clear turquoise waters and overwater pool villas that come with a private infinity pool. The resort will offer two restaurants, a harbour beach club and pool bar. Recreational facilities including a swimming pool, gymnasium, sunrise yoga deck, wellness centre with spa and salon treatments, water sports and dive centre, children’s activity centre and speciality shops are also available. This is Park Hotel Group’s second resort property in the portfolio after the opening of Park Hotel Nusa Dua, Bali last year.

“We are committed to growing our brand presence and to be able to fulfil this vision with our trusted partners like CES allows us to access new markets with increased confidence as we seek to combine resources and capabilities to achieve scalability, efficiency and success. Maldives, with its pristine natural landscape and ‘one island, one resort’ concept has established itself as a leading and an exclusive resort destination over the years,” said Mr Allen Law, Chief Executive Officer of Park Hotel Group.

“Ongoing government initiatives such as the 2016 year long marketing campaign, expansion plans for the Malé International Airport backed by a strong destination brand image as well as additional flight options from key feeder markets signal a continued positive tourism outlook for Maldives. This, combined with the rising affluence in Asia, a segment that has shown consistent growth also ensures an anticipated healthy performance in hotel occupancy and average room rates,” added Mr Law.

Park Hotel Group owns and manages 15 properties in 8 countries and 11 cities. Named “Best Regional Hotel Chain” in the TTG Travel Awards for five consecutive years (2012-2016), the Group endeavours to create unique and memorable travel experiences and to bring joy to its guests as it continues to grow its footprint across Asia Pacific. Since August last year, the Group has been expanding into new destinations in Australia, Malaysia and most recently last month, South Korea. In addition to Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives, the Group will open two other hotels, Park Hotel Farrer Park in Singapore and Park Hotel Yeongdeungpo, Seoul next year.

END.

About Chip Eng Seng Corporation Ltd

Chip Eng Seng Corporation Ltd (”CES”) is one of Singapore’s leading construction and property groups in Singapore and is listed on the mainboard of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited since 24 November 1999. CES core businesses are primarily in the area of property development, property investment, construction and hospitality. CES also has a presence in Australia, Malaysia and Vietnam.

CES made its mark by making a successful foray into the public housing market in 1982 after clinching its first Housing and Development Board construction project. Through hard work and dedication, the CES brand grew over the years and received many industry accolades and recognition. Its strong track record is attested by the construction of Singapore’s most iconic public housing project – the Pinnacle @ Duxton.

With more capital and talent at hand post listing, CES ventured into the development of private residential projects, which included landed homes, condominiums as well as executive condominiums since the mids 2000. CES made its foray into hospitality business in 2015 with the opening of its maiden hotel property, Park Hotel Alexandra in Singapore.

Harnessing its position as a leading industry player, CES plans to build on the strength of its property portfolio by strategically growing its presence in new key markets when the right opportunity arises. CES is actively developing new ways of creating synergies amongst the business segments while exploring strategic partnerships to boost its competitiveness in the region and bolster all aspects of its operations.

For more information about Chip Eng Seng Corporation Ltd, please visit www.chipengseng.com

About Park Hotel Group

Park Hotel Group is one of Asia Pacific’s best hospitality groups. The Group manages, owns and develops Park branded hotels around the Asia Pacific. Established since 1961, Park Hotel Group grew rapidly from its first hotel in Hong Kong to the current portfolio of 15 properties across 8 countries and 11 cities in the region, with access to over 4,200 rooms.

Committed to delivering exceptional service with love and passion, the acclaimed Park Hotel Group has established a track record of operating successful hotels. As it strives to be a world-renowned brand in hospitality, Park Hotel Group continues to focus on its footprint expansion through acquisitions and hotel management services.

Park branded hotels include the luxury Grand Park and the upscale Park Hotel.

Grand Park is a luxury hotel and resort brand synonymous with premium accommodation, facilities, service and comfort designed for discerning business and leisure travellers. Grand Park hotels can be found in Singapore, Maldives, China and Japan.

Park Hotel is an upscale hotel and resort brand symbolising utmost convenience, personalised services and high standards of amenities carefully crafted to please business and leisure travellers. Park Hotels can be found in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, South Korea and Australia.

Park Hotel Group’s portfolio of properties comprises:

Singapore

  • Grand Park Orchard
  • Grand Park City Hall
  • Park Hotel Clarke Quay
  • Park Hotel Alexandra
  • Park Hotel Farrer Park (2017)

Malaysia

  • Park Hotel Melaka (2019)

Indonesia

  • Park Hotel Nusa Dua, Bali

China

  • Grand Park Xian
  • Grand Park Wuxi
  • Grand Park Kunming

Hong Kong

  • Park Hotel Hong Kong

South Korea

  • Park Hotel Yeongdeungpo, Seoul (2017)

Japan

  • Grand Park Otaru

Australia

  • Park Hotel Adelaide (2018)

Maldives

  • Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives (2017)

Kodhipparu — once a sand bank, was reclaimed and made to a 3-hectare island by a Maldivian company and later sold to Abdullah Mohamed, owner of Amin Construction one of the largest construction companies in the Maldives, for an undisclosed price.

Permit to develop a resort at Kodhipparu was given to Abdullah Mohamed’s Top Deck Investment in early 2013 as a cross subsidy to his project to develop 100 housing units or 50 luxury villas in Hulhumalé. The resort was supposed to be a joint venture with the government of the Maldives with 250 beds and the contract was signed in September 2013.