World Travel Awards alights in the Maldives ahead of Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2017

World Travel Awards (WTA) has touched down in the Maldives, as the finishing touches are put together in preparation of the Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2017.

The prestigious event will take place this Saturday (8th July) at the five star Sun Aqua Vilu Reef, with hospitality leaders from across the region expected to attend to discover who among them has been voted the pinnacle of the travel industry.

Maldivian Idol hosts Moosa Waseem and Aminath Lamha Latheef – two of the most familiar faces on Maldivian television – will compere the event, which will also allow attendees to get in touch with authentic Maldivian culture through traditional dances such as Bandiya and Maafathi. The main act for the evening will be performed by the legendary Maldivian singer Unoosha.

Speaking ahead of the event, WTA President and Founder Graham Cooke, said: “It will be our pleasure to welcome guests to Sun Aqua Vilu Reef. With just days to go until the event, we are putting the finishing touches in place and we look forward to greeting all our guests at what is a wonderful resort in a picturesque tourist hotspot.”

Sun Aqua Vilu Reef offers 103 luxurious rooms and suites – all of which come with deep soaking tubs, complimentary Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service.

Beyond the bedrooms, guest can indulge in a signature spice-scented scrub at the spa or borrow a book to read while soaking up the sun on the pristine beach.

When night falls, sample one of Sun Aqua Vilu Reef’s restaurants serving a range of international cuisine, before enjoying a sundowner cocktail while listening to DJ spun tunes.

Evgenia Boyankova, Group Director of Business Development at Sun Siyam Resorts, added: “We are getting ready for World Travel Awards Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony with great excitement.

“Myself and the team look forward to welcoming the participants to our boutique resort where Maldivian hospitality, culture and luxury is unrivalled, this Saturday.”

World Travel Awards was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry.

Today, the World Travel Awards brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of quality, with winners setting the benchmark to which all others aspire.

Each year, World Travel Awards covers the globe with a series of regional gala ceremonies staged to recognise and celebrate individual and collective success within each key geographical region.

World Travel Awards Gala Ceremonies are widely regarded as the best networking opportunities in the travel industry, attended by government and industry leaders, luminaries and international print and broadcast media.

A full list of nominees for the World Travel Awards Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2017 can be seen at: www.worldtravelawards.com/nominees/2017/indian-ocean

World Travel Awards celebrates its 24th anniversary this year and is acknowledged across the globe as the ultimate travel accolade.

Attended by senior executives from major travel companies, operators, destinations, WTA events are universally respected as providing established, top-level networking opportunities, regionally and globally.

The brand aims to celebrate those organisations who push the boundaries of industry excellence.

Excitement builds ahead of World Travel Awards Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2017

Excitement is building for this year’s World Travel Awards Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2017 as the travel industry’s leading awards programme makes its final preparations for the prestigious event, which is taking place on Saturday 8th July in the Maldives.

The five star Sun Aqua Vilu Reef will welcome hospitality leaders from across the region, as they gather to see who among them has been voted the pinnacle of the travel industry.

The glittering event will kick off with a cocktail reception at 7pm while the gala ceremony and dinner commence at 8 pm and will, this year, be compèred by Maldivian Idol hosts Moosa Waseem and Aminath Lamha Latheef – two of the most familiar faces on Maldivian television.

World Travel Awards Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2017 will also allow attendees to get in touch with authentic Maldivian culture through traditional dances such as Bandiya and Maafathi. The main act for the evening will be performed by the legendary Maldivian singer Unoosha.

Looking ahead to the Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2017, World Travel Awards President and Founder Graham Cooke, said: “It will be our pleasure to welcome guests to Sun Aqua Vilu Reef. With just a two and half weeks to go until the event, we are putting the finishing touches in place and I look forward to greeting all our guests at a wonderful resort in a picturesque tourist hotspot.”

Evgenia Boyankova, Group Director of Business Development at Sun Siyam Resorts, added: “We love hosting world class events! It’s always been a thrill that brings a lot of fun and enjoyment to our guests. We are getting ready for World Travel Awards Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony with great excitement. Myself and the team look forward to welcoming the participants to our boutique resort, where Maldivian hospitality, culture and luxury is unrivalled.”

World Travel Awards was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry. Today, the World Travel Awards brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of quality, with winners setting the benchmark to which all others aspire.

Each year, World Travel Awards covers the globe with a series of regional gala ceremonies staged to recognise and celebrate individual and collective success within each key geographical region.

World Travel Awards Gala Ceremonies are widely regarded as the best networking opportunities in the travel industry, attended by government and industry leaders, luminaries and international print and broadcast media.

For more information about World Travel Awards, please visit the official website: www.worldtravelawards.com

Value Added Deals at Sun Siyam Resorts

Uncover Asia – Maldives & Sri Lanka combined offer!

Embark on a journey to uncover Asia’s hidden jewels in Maldives and Sri Lanka.

Book any of the Sun Siyam Resort property in the Maldives together with Sun Aqua Pasikudah in Sri Lanka and get 5% discount.

Included in this package are:

  • 5% discount as stated above on any room type and any meal plan
  • Luxurious villas with daily housekeeping and in-villa amenities
  • Complimentary in villa Wi-Fi

Terms and conditions are:

  • Stay dates from now onwards with no blackout dates, last check out date on November 1st, 2017.
  • Applicable where Maldives (stay at either The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, Sun Aqua Vilu Reef or Olhuveli Beach & Spa) and Sri Lanka (Sun Aqua Pasikudah) are booked as a package at the same time.
  • Applicable when Sun Siyam Resorts are booked for the same travelers at the same time.
  • Discount is applicable on room rate based on the meal plan basis.
  • Discount is not applicable for extra person and other supplementary charges (transfer and meal plan supplements).
  • Combinable with other special offers.

Link: http://www.sunsiyam.com/offer/uncover-asia-maldives-sri-lanka-combinable-offer/

Free Dining Plan Upgrade at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives!

Experience a tropical retreat with extreme value additions on your stay! Book on any dining plan and get a complimentary upgrade to the next dining plan, at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives.

Only available for bookings through the official website, www.sunsiyam.com!

  • Book on Bed & Breakfast – Free Dinner on us!
  • Book on Half Board – Free Lunch on us!
  • Book on Full Board – Free upgrade to All Inclusive on us!

Included in this package are:

  • Complimentary meal plan upgrades
  • Complimentary accommodation is offered to children under 12 sharing with parents
  • Complimentary in villa Wi-Fi
  • Villa host
  • Selected non-motorized water sports

Terms and conditions are:

  • Stay dates from now onwards, last check out date September 30th, 2017
  • All offers are subject to availability at the time of reservation.
  • Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offer or contract and do not apply to groups.
  • Rates are per room, per night, vary by arrival date and/or length of stay, and do not include applicable taxes, service charges, levies, resort fees, gratuities or surcharges, unless otherwise noted.
  • Children under 12 stay free sharing parents bed. USD 6 green tax is applicable per child per night as per government regulations.
  • Half Board meal plan includes daily breakfast and dinner
  • Full Board meal plan includes daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • All Inclusive meal plan includes daily breakfast, lunch, dinner and selected beverages

Link: http://www.sunsiyam.com/offer/free-meal-plan-upgrade/

About Sun Siyam Resorts

A collection of hotel & resort brands born from the inspiration of Mr. Ahmed Siyam Mohamed. Led by his passion for creating a difference in the Maldives tourism industry that transforms the luxury hospitality experience. Sun Siyam Resorts has an esteemed portfolio of boutique luxury resorts operating in the Maldives and Sri Lanka, including:

The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives
Olhuveli Beach & Spa Maldives
Sun Aqua Vilu Reef Maldives
Sun Aqua Pasikudah, Sri Lanka

For more information: www.sunsiyam.com

Sun Siyam Group hosts a 2nd evening in Riyadh

On the 9th of April 2017 at Holiday Inn Al Qasr, Sun Siyam Resorts together with the Embassy of the Republic of Maldives hosted yet another remarkable evening in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh.

The event was held in order to maintain the popularity that Maldives has gained in the Middle East. The evening brought together diplomats of different countries in Riyadh. It showcased information on Maldives and the properties of Sun Siyam Resorts. Maldives is an exotic destination that offers something for everyone including families, couples, singles, honeymooners, spa enthusiasts, and the adventurous at heart.

The evening was brought to a start with the opening speech by His Excellency Abdullah Hameed, Ambassador of Maldives to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It was followed by a presentation by Director of Business Development of Sun Siyam Resorts, Evgenia Boyankova. During the event, there were raffles drawn with holidays to Maldives sponsored by Sun Siyam Resorts.

With a great turnout, it was a successful event with dinner and networking. Sun Siyam Resorts plans to host a series of such events to promote Maldives in the Middle East.

Sun Siyam Resorts

A collection of hotel & resort brands born from the inspiration of Mr. Ahmed Siyam Mohamed. Led by his passion for creating a difference in the Maldives Tourism Industry that redefine the luxury hospitality experience. Sun Siyam Resorts has an esteemed portfolio of boutique luxury resorts operating in the Maldives and Sri Lanka, including:

The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives
Olhuveli Beach & Spa Maldives
Sun Aqua Vilu Reef Maldives
Sun Aqua Pasikudah, Sri Lanka

For more information: www.sunsiyam.com

A Grand Event in Collaboration with Embassy of The Republic of Maldives in The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Sun Siyam Resorts, together with the Embassy of the Republic of Maldives hosted a special evening in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh on the 13th of February at Four Points by Sheraton hotel.

Ambassador of Maldives to the Kingdom of Saudi ArabiaThe special event held to mark the opening of the Sun Siyam Group representation in Riyadh was focused on “A Glimpse into the Sunny Side of Life”. This was mainly to provide the much needed information of Maldives as a destination, which has maintained its popularity in the Middle East.

Group Director of Business DevelopmentThe evening was brought to a start with the opening speech by His Excellency Abdullah Hameed, Ambassador of Maldives to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Manager for Saudi AirlinesIt was followed by a presentation by Director of Business Development of Sun Siyam Resorts, Evgenia Boyankova, who covered the topic on “Traveling to Maldives: Everyone can find something special”. True to its title, Maldives definitely caters to one’s own needs. It is a destination for families, couples, singles, honeymooners, friends, the adventurous and the relaxed spa goers alike.

EventWith the easy flight connections available from the KSA, Mr. Mamdouh AbdullRhaman AlMallouhi, Sales Manager for Riyadh from Saudi Airlines covered the convenience and ease “Connecting the Kingdom and Maldives”and shared the future plans to launch direct flights from Jeddah to Maldives.

EventDuring the event, there were raffles drawn with holidays to Maldives sponsored by Sun Siyam Resorts and tickets to Maldives sponsored by Saudi Airlines. With a great turnout from the media and trade, it was a successful event with dinner and networking.

Sun Siyam Resorts

A collection of hotel & resort brands born from the inspiration of Mr. Ahmed Siyam Mohamed. Led by his passion for creating a difference in the Maldives Tourism Industry that redefine the luxury hospitality experience. Sun Siyam Resorts has an esteemed portfolio of boutique luxury resorts operating in the Maldives, including:

The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives

Olhuveli Beach & Spa Maldives

Sun Aqua Vilu Reef Maldives

Sun Aqua Pasikudah, Sri Lanka

A RESTING ABODE FOR SEA TURTLES – SUN AQUA VILU REEF

Sun Aqua Vilu Reef is a palm fringed paradise like island, located at South Nilandhe atoll, a mere 35minute seaplane ride away. The beauty of the island is emphasized by the loyal and hardworking team which exists within. In the past, many activities have been initiated by team members to help the local communities in taking care of the environment. Helping sea turtles in their fight against human poachers and erosion of their nesting sites is a noteworthy effort of Sun Aqua Vilu Reef.

Guests joining the team to SAVE THE SEA TURTLE - Sun Aqua Vilu ReefThe whole team at the resort are deeply committed to protecting marine life. As of now seven turtle nests have been found on the property. In order to ensure the future of the sea turtles in the Maldivian waters, new hatchlings are cared for at the resort. This program of nest protection and rearing led the resort to work with local island communities so as to encourage the protection of turtle nests. Furthermore, to give these beloved sea creatures a chance at survival, Corporate Social Responsibility Department of the resort in associate with students of nearby island school, hosts a program for “releasing baby turtles”.

Guests joining the team to SAVE THE SEA TURTLE - Sun Aqua Vilu ReefOnce the protected hatchlings have imprinted on the sand, majority is released into their natural habitat. Although, at times, some have to be taken to be reared in the specialized pools for up to 18 months in order to improve their chances of survival in the sea. While in the care of the resort team, the turtles are monitored, kept clean, weighed and measured regularly on a weekly basis. They are fed daily a fresh diet of squid, lobster, and fish eggs. The turtles are reared until they are 30 centimeters and weigh 4 kilos, this is to further ensure their safety as at this size they are big enough to not be a snack for most of the predators which hunt baby turtles.

Guests joining the team to SAVE THE SEA TURTLE - Sun Aqua Vilu ReefHelp us to SAVE THE SEA TURTLE and preserve our marine environment, this is the wish of each of the team member at the Sun Aqua Vilu Reef.

Guests joining the team to SAVE THE SEA TURTLE - Sun Aqua Vilu ReefSea turtles are an endangered species. Human activities have made a negative impact on the survival of these ancient majestic creatures. We all need to do our part in order to protect them.

Sun Aqua Vilu Reef is a glorious piece of haven like island. From its airy white rooms to the recreation for all ages, from the sundrenched sand to its coverage of lush greenery; Sun Aqua Vilu Reef is an experience unlike any other.

World Travel Awards Grand Final to be held at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi

The venue of the Grand Final Gala Ceremony has been upgraded to the five-star luxury retreat The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi. As the opportunity has arisen to upgrade the World Travel Awards Grand Final Gala Ceremony, it is set to take place at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi on the 2nd December 2016.

Unfolding over 52 acres of natural perfection, The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is the perfect venue for the Grand Final 2016 and a world away from the everyday. Reflecting a last minute surge in demand for space at the event, the venue has moved from the smaller Olhuveli Beach & Spa, Maldives, to the larger The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi.

Both are operated by the Sun Siyam Resorts.

World Travel Awards President Graham Cooke said: “It will be our pleasure to welcome guests to The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi. Upgrading to the new, larger venue ahead of the Grand Final 2016 will allow us to welcome a larger delegation from around the world here in the Maldives.”

World Travel Awards was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry. Today, the World Travel Awards brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of quality, with winners setting the benchmark to which all others aspire. Each year World Travel Awards covers the globe with a series of regional gala ceremonies staged to recognise and celebrate individual and collective successes within each key geographical region.

Regional Gala Ceremonies have already taken place in Tanzania, Peru, Italy, Jamaica, Vietnam and the United Arab Emirates throughout the year.

World Travel Awards Gala Ceremonies are widely regarded as the best networking opportunities in the travel industry, attended by government and industry leaders, luminaries, and international print and broadcast media.

Sun Aqua Vilu Reef launches in The Maldives

The visionary Sun Aqua brand is delighted to announce the opening of its second property, the Sun Aqua Vilu Reef, a stunningly refurbished resort found on the beautiful bite-sized gem of Meedhuffushi Island in the heart of the South Nilandhe Atoll. The property is the second addition to the group after the Sun Aqua Pasikudah which opened earlier in 2015 on Sri Lanka’s North East coast.

Originally opened in 1998 Vilu Reef is proud to take on new colours and sit as the flagship Maldivian property for the Sun Aqua brand which plans to continue its international growth over the coming years. At Sun Aqua resorts, guests can enjoy perfectly relaxing experiences led by simple luxuries, sensational food and warm, dedicated service and as it stayed open to guests during its refurbishment it continues to welcome new and repeater guests that have grown to love the property and island, year after year.

Sun Aqua Vilu Reef
Sun Aqua Vilu Reef

On 28th October 2015, the original date of opening in 1998, the property officially re-launched to a fanfare of celebration with official ceremonies followed by a beachside feast, dancing and live music held throughout the evening.

Property & Accommodation

The Sun Aqua Vilu Reef is easily accessible from Malé and the International Airport via a 40 minute seaplane ride. The Sun Siyam Family Lounge at the seaplane terminal bids an immediate start to the holiday offering refreshments and massages to help settle guests into the Sun Aqua spirit. The property has gone through a complete revival and been refurbished to an extremely high standard creating five different categories of rooms including 15 NEW Sun Aqua Pool Villas. Splashes of colour can be found throughout the property impressing the Sun Aqua brand into the new future of Vilu Reef.

Beach Villas

Hidden amongst the foliage are 62 shell shaped bungalows, (14 Beach Villas, 18 Deluxe Beach Villas and 10 Jacuzzi Deluxe Beach Villas, 5 Deluxe Beach Villas with Pool & 15 Sun Aqua Pool Villas) some now with lava-stone pools and whirlpool bathtubs. Rooms are now all 20% larger than before and offer private sundecks, re-fitted bathrooms and day swing beds.

Sun Aqua Vilu Reef
Sun Aqua Vilu Reef

Water Villas

A further 41 Water Villas (20 Reef Villas, 9 Sunset Reef Villas, 6 Aqua Villas with plunge pools, 5 Aqua Suites now with private swimming pools & 1 Grand Reef Suite) complete the accommodation offering with a select few even hiding inviting over-water hammocks. All water villas offer incredible vista views across the Indian Ocean and a true Maldivian experience.

Dine & Imbibe

One of the best parts of any journey is the adventure into exotic flavours. Guests can be selective at Sun Aqua Vilu Reef and explore the spice and warmth of home style Maldivian cuisine, feast on gourmet organic and free-range produce grown on the resorts private Farm Island, sink their teeth into freshly caught, barbequed seafood or dine under the stars with the properties destination private dining experience.

Sun Aqua Vilu Reef
Sun Aqua Vilu Reef

The Aqua is the resorts main restaurant sat over the water, producing freshly prepared western and international cuisine served in a buffet style and is also the resorts beautiful breakfast spot. The Well Done, the island BBQ grill on the beach serves freshly caught fish and seafood as well as being the home to the islands impressive glass enclosed wine cellar, featuring the finest wines from around the globe, creating a sophisticated backdrop for any evening. The resort also features a boutique pizzeria creating handmade pizzas topped with authentic seasoning and fresh ingredients. Destination Dining offers guests the chance to dine in private away from other guests on any spot on the island accompanied by their own private chef and waiter.

Before and after dinner guests may enjoy the chance to visit one of the island’s two bars. The Nautilus is the resorts beach bar offering a cool, rustic hideaway where one of the bartender’s cocktail’s will help liven up a night of dancing or an exhilarating game of crab racing. Positive Energy, set beside the pool serves an array of refreshing juices, cocktails and signature tropical fruit punch either under the cool of the coconut tree or on a lounger with views of the lagoon and pool.

Spa & Leisure

One of the biggest developments at the resort has been the creation of a full holistic spa offering. Now a major focus of the resort the Sun Aqua Spa consists of six private treatment pavilions each with open air flower baths, open showers, a hydrotherapy area and double treatment beds. On offer will also be a salon, manicure/pedicure and a beautiful relaxation area. Encompassing the Five Element Theory; Wood, Fire, Metal, Earth & Water the spa will offer a lengthy menu of Ayurvedic wellness rituals, pampering beauty therapies and massage techniques from around the world. It will also offer a selection of signature therapies to help renew body and mind including a rich scrub of coconut or coffee, a herbal Udavarthanam detox or a relaxing, fragrant flower bath.

Sun Aqua Vilu Reef
Sun Aqua Vilu Reef

In addition to spa the Sun Aqua Vilu Reef also offers plenty of leisure activities to keep everyone entertained, relaxed and enjoying their time on the island. Diving is a big part of the culture in the Maldives in general and at Sun Aqua Vilu Reef in particular. The 5* Gold Palm PADI / SSI Diamond Dive centre brings together an exciting array of diving and snorkelling programmes and a chance to explore the sea life and reefs that litter the warm and extremely clear waters. The property hosts one of the best house reefs in the region, located just 30 meters from the shore, offering snorkelers an unrivalled experience. Watersports are also a big part of island life and guests at Sun Aqua Vilu Reef can enjoy windsurfing, canoeing and sailing as well as a range of motorised watersports such as jetskis and water-skiing.