Absolute Maldives Magazine Edition Six by Absolute Magazine Group

Mal di v e s

Absol ut e

Authentic Spirit. Outstanding Comfort. Understated Elegance. Legendary Service. Experience what makes Baros Maldives

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www.baros.com

Paradise, with a mindful touch Feed your soul with an enriching experience on our serene island within the Shaviyani Atoll. Relax in one of 60 luxurious villas, each with their own private pool, plush bedding and lavish spaces. Tantalise your taste buds with 5 restaurants, 3 unique bars and a wine room. Indulge at the Spa by JW or recentre yourself with a yoga or meditation class while the kids stay active at the Little Griffin’s Kid’s Club. Embrace the authentic and warm Maldivian culture whilst you become fully present, nourished and reconnected

JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa www.jwmarriottmaldives.com

Index 08 20 32 44 60 68 76 86 96 104

MALDIVES IMAGES HOLIDAYING IN THE MALDIVES HISTORY OF MALDIVES CULTURE THE PRIVATE ISLAND KURUMBA BAROS MILAIDHOO DHIGALI WALDORF ASTORIA

Editor - Victoria Marie Emerson Guest writer - Glynn Burridge Photography - Stefano Perrone Design Pete Hayward petehayward.design Robin Bradshaw stardustmedia.co.uk Owners | Publishers Simon Darcy Abbott - simon@absolutemagazine.co.uk David Camici - dcamici@absolutemagazine.co.uk

ABSOLUTE is owned and produced by Mad Media PR Ltd Absolute offices 1 Preston Road, Brighton, BN1 4QU

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The

Editor W

elcome to the 2023/24 edition of Absolute Maldives Magazine.

Like no other place on earth the Maldives are today's epitome of

a tropical island paradise. With their famously crystal clear waters, this Indian Ocean archipelago is a dream destination for travellers from all around the world. It’s not just honeymooners who choose the islands for a romantic getaway; the islands are top of the bucket list for families, nature lovers and anyone seeking peace and quiet. Divers and snorkelers find their mecca underwater: colourful coral reefs, schools of fish or even the gigantic manta rays are a common sight on any adventure in the ocean. We have selected some of the most stunning island resorts in the Maldives to showcase for you plus history and cultural features to allow you the reader to deep dive into the hidden wonders of this nation of scattered gems in the azure seas of the Indian Ocean,

So enjoy, and be safe on your worldly travels.

images by stefano perrone www.instagram.com/nemophotographer 9

“Barefoot In Paradise”

FOUR STUNNING ISLANDS ONE AMAZING EXPERIENCE w w w. n a k a i re s o r t s . c o m

MALDIVES

holidaying in THE The main reason to take a seaplane ride is for the aerial views – it’s a thrilling excursion and a practical mode of travel in one.

visit to the unique islands of Maldives is

unforgettable; not only because 99 percent of this tiny nation is ocean, but simply because of its outstanding

beauty. The explorer and archaeologist Thor Heyerdahl, famous for his Kon-Tiki expedition and historical

discoveries in Maldives sums it up perfectly in his book “The Maldive Mystery”: “That afternoon we passed

the most beautiful palm islands I have ever seen. With the sun low on our starboard side it threw a glowing

sidelight on the tiny islets, which seemed to float by like flower baskets ... Under the spell of this picture of an

earthy paradise I made an entry in my notebook that the Maldives are even more beautiful than any of the coral atolls in Polynesia.”

Heyerdahl was not the last one to fall in love with

the islands. Prince William and his wife Kate enjoyed the islands in 2014 and Celebrities like the Beckham family,

Kate Moss and countless Hollywood actors like Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Cruise and Milla Jovovich can be seen regularly in one of the many exclusive resorts.

“ The Maldives are even more beautiful than any of the coral atolls in Polynesia.”

holidaying in the maldives

LUXURY

RESORTS

The St. Regis Starwood Group’s St. Regis Vommuli resort has added another sparkling star to Maldives' hotel heaven. In November 2016 the 77 villa resort opened its doors in Dhaalu atoll, about 45 minutes flight from Male. The very spacious and bright villas are surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, beaches of fine white sand and a beautiful turquoise lagoon. Clear lines and a contemporary design work in perfect symbiosis with this idyllic landscape. The luxury villas all have a private swimming pool with pool deck and provide beautiful views of the sea or the tropical gardens. The house reef with its schools of fish swimming in crystal clear water above colorful corals are an invitation for guests to go snorkelling. Five specialty restaurants offer delicious culinary creations, all of which can also be taken privately in any beautiful corner of the resort. The spacious spa area with its warm seawater pool and its incomparable views make a stay at the St. Regis Vommuli Resort unforgettable as it can be. Villingili Resort & Spa by Shangri-La 17,000 coconut palms, huge Banyan trees, 45 plant species and three freshwater lagoons enrich the extensive grounds of the Shangri-La BB´s Villingili Resort Spa. The still little-developed Addu Atoll enchants with untouched nature, an unspoiled underwater world and palm-fringed white beaches. In addition to its beauty and its luxurious equipment the luxury hotel stretches over six kilometres - a rare size for the usually smaller islands - and every guest receives a bike to use around the island. This is the only Maldives island with its own a 9-hole golf course. The villas of the Shangri-La BB´s Villingili Resort Spa are spread over the whole island and guests can choose beeteen romantic beachfront cottages, glamorous over water bungalows or even tree houses. Adventurers can dive around the beautiful house reef or explore the ship wreck not far away or take a trip on a 20 metre sailing yacht. The Shangri-La sets new culinary standards, with dishefrom the the Indian Ocean, the South China Sea or the Arabian Gulf to entice the palate and there are two bars at which you can enjoy exotic cocktails with great views over the lagoon.

The accommodation is perfectly positioned, to make the most of those jaw-dropping sunset panoramas.

Hurawalhi Island Resort Opened in December 2016, the lush Hurawalhi Island Resort, in the Lhaviyani Atoll, is well abreast of environmental issues, but that doesn't mean it has skimped on lavishness. The adult-only resort (guests must be a minimum of 15 years old) features an undersea restaurant, a tropical champagne pavilion, spa, and a collection of 90 generously proportione ddesign-led villas strung across the glittering lagoon. The accommodation is perfectly positioned, to make the most of those jaw-dropping sunset panoramas. With a strong environmental focus, Hurawalhi uses solar panels, its own water-bottling plant, energy saving solutions, hot water recovery and even has an in-house marine biologist. Importantly, it is also collaborating with Manta Trust, the marine conservation and education specialists, to provide educational guided dives and snorkelling excursions to spectacular nearby reefs and shipwrecks. The island is a nesting site for green turtles and a breeding ground for manta rays which Manta Trust helps preserve as well as educating visitors on these endangered creatures. Carrying on the focus on nature, the Duniye Spa offers treatments based around the healing traditions of Asia and Africa, including the use of locally sourced ingredients. The ‘5.8’ Undersea Restaurant is an adventure in itself, so called because it is submerged almost six metres underwater. Surrounded by impressive marine views, the minimalist-designed restaurant focuses on romance – and every table is set just for two.

holidaying in the maldives

Despite the influx of tourists, you can still experience the island dream that the Maldives is known for – you just need to know where to go. BUDGET TRAVEL These glorious islands are no longer reserved for the rich and famous and Maldives can now also be enjoyed on a budget. In 2009, the Maldivian government allowed local residents to open their own guesthouses and restaurants to tourists. Previously travellers were limited to the resort islands, but now they can visit and stay on any local island. Homestays, hotels and guesthouses have started popping up everywhere. The facilities come in a full range – from basic to luxurious – including private beaches, swimming pools, diving schools, and spas. Despite the influx of tourists you can still experience the island dream that the Maldives is known for – you just need to know where to go. Aveyla Manta Village Baa Atoll is known for superb marine life with regular sightings of magnificent manta rays and gentle whale sharks . This region is designated as a UNESCO marine bioreserve. Accessed via domestic flight, Dharavandhoo Island lets you truly get away from it all. Aveyla Manta Village is s one of the guesthouses that strives to achieve resort quality, while maintaining an authentic local feel unlike many guesthouses, the beachfront property offers an inhouse spa and a dive centre. Arena Beach Hotel Close to Male, Maafushi is one of the islands that has rapidly adopted the guesthouse habit, and offers a wide choice. This gives it a lively nighttime atmosphere compared to some of the other isolated islands. Arena Beach Hotel has 19 rooms with either sea or garden views. While at the more expensive end of the “budget” range, the hotel is located only steps from its own private beach where leisure activities like snorkeling and diving will allow you to explore its beauty. Maafushi Island is just a local ferry ride away from Male, so getting there is fairly easy and quite cheap. Maafushi has the most guesthouse beds of any local island, and therefore, offers the lowest room rates.

holidaying in the maldives

The Amazing Noovilu Accessed easily via speedboat from the capital, Mahibadoo is in one of the very best atolls for marine life spotting and beautiful beach enjoyment. It is not the metropolis that Male is and at a mere fraction of resort prices could be the perfect way to experience the real Maldives. The small boutique guesthouse The Amazing Noovilu is only 3 minutes away from a beach with a beautiful reef and the five spacious rooms all have air conditioning and daily cleaning service. The garden leading into the guesthouse is shaded by small palms and banana trees, and there are lawn chairs and a small outdoor kitchenette. The island itself can be walked around in an afternoon. There are ATMs, small conveniences stores and plenty of coffee houses. Activities are the real treat, because the owner Mazin acts as your tour guide. He offers manta watching and whale shark snorkelling tours in his speedboat, offering a relaxed but essentially private-tour atmosphere. Thundi Guest House Thundi Guest House is located in the beautiful island of Fulidhoo in the Vaavu Atoll, 57 kilometres from Male. The island is just 675 metres long and 200 metres wide with a population of around four hundred. Despite its small size, Fulidhoo has a mosque, school, health centre, community centre, council offices and a number of general stores selling snacks and basic supplies. The sandy main street running down the centre of the island also has a number of souvenir shops selling colourful sarongs and dresses, but they only open twice a week when guests from a nearby resort come to visit. It’s entirely uncommercial with no restaurants or bars, but the guest house offers authentic local food. Vaavu Atoll can be reached by public ferry in about 3.5 hours and costs only a few Maledivian Rufiyaa. Thodoo Island Thoddoo island in the Ari Atoll is known throughout Maldivesin the country for its thriving plantation. One-third of the total area is agricultural and it is one of the largest exporters of fruits and vegetables in the Maldives. The island is larger than many, about 2 km in length and 1 km in width - so hiring a bike to explore it makes sense. Thick bushes grow along the coast and numerous pathways take you to the ocean. naturally, most people visit this part of Maldives for underwater adventures: there are several coral reefs located near the island, some only a short swimming distance away. Enthusiastic snorkellers will be in heaven here. Budget accommodation like the Serene sky Guest House or the Todhoo Retreat make the ideal base for discovering the area. Serene Guest house offers packages for all types of travellers -honeymooners, solo backpackers, families and divers can all find a deal perfectly adjusted to their needs. You can get to Thoddoo directly from Male in one hour by speed boat; the publiuc ferry takes four hours.

holidaying in the maldives

As a tropical monsoon climate, the Maldives have plenty of sunshine with temperatures around 30°C throughout the year.

TRANSPORTATION Hotel transfers don’t usually excite most of us, but in the Maldives things are different. Forget long minibus rides from the airport or endless hours stuck in a taxi. The unique formation of this island nation means that to reach your exclusive resort you’ll need to cruise or fly. Some islands can only be reached by boat while some require a seaplane ride. But for others you’ll have the choice between the two. Speedboat Speedboats are the most cost-effective option and are usually included in your package costs. The process is effortless. Once you arrive at Male airport, your speedboat will arrive at the jetty just across the road from the terminal. Hop aboard, feel the wind in your hair and enjoy the anticipation of spotting your hotel coming into view. Speedboats are operated by individual resorts and come in various forms, but all offer a comfortable start to your holiday. Depending on the location of your resort, you’ll pass other islands en route – both resort islands and tiny uninhabited ‘picnic islands’ and be sure to keep your eyes peeled for dolphins. Seaplane A seaplane is far quicker at transporting you from A to B where 3 hour boat journeys are easily reduced to a 30-minute flight. The main reason to take a seaplane ride however is for the aerial views – it’s a thrilling excursion and a practical mode of travel in one. The seaplane terminal is just a short bus ride from the main airport, and seaplane charter flights depart at scheduled times during daytime. Seaplanes in the Maldives are small, and you’ll be enjoying this experience with a few other passengers travelling to/ from several resorts in the same area. Needless to say, your focus should be outside the windowas you soar over picture-perfect islands of all shapes and sizes and, as you climb higher, see the reefs, lagoons and atoll formations.

WEATHER As a tropical monsoon climate, the Maldives have plenty of sunshine with temperatures around 30°C throughout the year. The dry season is associated with dry northeast winter monsoons, has little rain and lower humidity and lasts from December to April. The rainy season (associated with humid southwest monsoons and strong winds and storms) from May to November is wetter, characterized by stronger winds and rain. For divers, both the dry and wet seasons have their advantages: during the dry season, visibility is superb, due to currents beginning to flow from the northeast in November.The currents start to weaken in February. During the wet season, the water temperatures are a couple of degrees lower. This seems to inspire entice larger numbers of hammerhead sharks and reef sharks to congregate, and to do so in shallower waters than in the dry season. Visibility isn't as good, however, as there are less currents. It is believed that the tourist season in Maldives lasts from November to April. At that time there are more sunny days and less overcast ones. But because of the El Nino influence and global warming the seasons have shifted. Nowadays it is sunniest in May-June. The best time to go to Maldives is from January to March. The catch ist the price - at this time the prices are the highest and there are practically no discounts. The so-called “low season” lasts from May till the end of October. During these months it is more likely to rain, but everything is relative because the weather is different on various atolls.

LIVE UNFORGETTABLE Nestled among white sands and crystal blue waters, the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi resort is a 45-minute yacht journey from Velana International Airport. From 11 celebrated dining venues, including Michelin starred chef Dave Pynt, Zuma Maldives and Terra, the only private hand-crafted bamboo dining pods in the Maldives, a world-class spa sanctuary, the first aqua wellness center of its kind in the Maldives, and an exclusive private island.

Reservations +960-400-0300, +960-979-9000, +960-664-2222 Address Ithaafushi Island, South Male Atoll, Republic of Maldives Email MLEON.hotel@waldorfastoria.com

www.waldorfastoriamaldives.com

INTRODUCTION

Like no other place on earth the Maldives are today's epitome of a tropical island paradise. With their famously crystal clear waters, this Indian Ocean archipelago is a dream destination for travellers from all around the world. It’s not just honeymooners who choose the islands for a romantic getaway; the islands are top of the bucket list for families, nature lovers and anyone seeking peace and quiet. Divers and snorkelers find their mecca underwater: colourful coral reefs, schools of fish or even the gigantic manta rays are a common sight on any adventure in the ocean.

MALDIVES

a history of

a history of maldives

THE HISTORY OF MALDIVES Long before the first tourists set foot on the islands, sailors from Egypt, Greece and China found their way here. It was in 2000 B.C. when they used the equatorial channel for a safe passage from Africa to India and Arabia. Sri Lankan Buddhists followed in 500 B.C. and until 1153 A.D. And Buddhism was the dominant religion here before islam. Even today, one can find the remains of the first settlers within the many mosques in Maldives that face the sun and not Mecca. Islamism came into the country with the Arab travellers who traded with the islands and in 1153 A.D. the last Buddhist King Dovemi Kalaminja officially converted, taking the name Sultan Muhammad al Adil. Many Maldivians consider this the cornerstone of their country's history. A series of six dynasties consisting of eighty-four sultans and sultanas followed, and Islam remains the state religion until today. The country has been an independent state throughout its known history, except for a brief period of Portuguese occupation in the 16th century. The Portuguese, who were already well established in Goa in western India, decided they wanted a greater share of the profitable trade routes of the Indian Ocean. In 1558, after a few unsuccessful raids, Captain Andreas Andre led an invasion army and killed Sultan Ali VI. He ruled Male and much of the country for the next 15 years. There was ongoing resistance, especially from Mohammed Thakurufaanu, the son of an influential family from the northern atoll of Haa Alif. Thakurufaanu started a series of guerrilla raids, culminating in an attack on Male, in which all the Portuguese were slaughtered. This victory is commemorated annually as National Day on the first day of the third month of the year. There is a memorial centre on the island of Utheemu today to the Maldives’ greatest hero. In the 17th century, the Maldives accepted the protection of the Dutch, who ruled Ceylon at the time. They also had a short-lived defence treaty with the French and maintained good relations with the British, especially after the British took possession of Ceylon in 1796 and then included Maldives as a British protectorate. This was officially recorded in an 1887 agreement, in which the sultan accepted British influence over Maldivian external relations and defense. The British had no presence, however, on the leading island community of Male. They left the islanders alone and Maldives continued to be ruled under a succession of sultans. After a public referendum in 1968 the sultanate was abolished and the Maldives was declared a republic and has been a stable democrcy since the introduction of multiparty elections in 2008.

In 1968 the sultanate was abolished and the Maldives was declared a republic and has been a stable democrcy since the introduction of multiparty elections in 2008.

TOURISM & ECONOMY THEN AND NOW It is not only thanks to the recent politics that the Maldives are growing steadily into a modern society. Before the 1980ies the country lived from fisheries - with its abundance of aquatic life and species of fish Maldives has shipped about 90 percent of fishing catch in dried form to Sri Lanka. But the real economic boost came with tourism in the 1980s. George Corbin, an Italian travel enthusiast and explorer, who arrived on a cargo ship from Sri Lanka in 1971 arguably set the ball rolling by bringing some Italian journalists and photographers down to the islands after falling in love with their beauty. A year later he managed to bring a total of 266 international tourists to Maldives and soon afterwards the first resort - Kurumaba Village - was built, Air Ceylon started to operate a schedule air service between Sri Lanka and the islands. From then on the number of visitors increased rapidly and today more than 1.3 million tourists a year visit the island state. Today Male International is at its limits with capacity and the government is looking to make significant infrastructure improvements. But a lacking infrastructure is not the only issue the state faces these days: fears of immediate sea level rise, fresh water and sanitation problems, waste and coastal protection are also challenges the government is trying to solve. A lot of small islands face erosion and ground water contamination and need sewerage networks and new harbours. Plans to relocate local inhabitants to bigger islands so that the newly deserted coral islands could be handed to developers is high on some of the politicians agenda. An increase in tourism will hopefully bring in the money that's needed to follow through with these plans, but while some support the idea of mass tourism and mega-developments others favour a more low-impact, more sustainable approach to development. They would rather explore green initiatives, high tech zones, tax-free offerings and suchlike, in an attempt to woo the global elite and injections of fresh capital.

a history of maldives

THE CAPITAL Male has been the seat of the Maldives’ ruling dynasties since before the 12th century. Some trading houses appeared in the 17th century, along with a ring of defensive bastions, but Male’ did not acquire the trappings of a city and had a very limited range of economic and cultural activities. Visitors in the 1920s estimated the population at just 5000. Serious growth really only began in the 1930s with the first banks, hospitals, high schools and government offices appearing. Only when tourism brought with it an expanding economy, the city really burgeoned and lateron growth emerged as a problem. The smallest capital in the world holds about a third of its national population and the island which covers just six square kilometres is intensively built-up: narrow streets host a mix of shops, new and old apartment blocks, office buildings and the President’s home, the Mulee Male, which was built in 1913 as a center for political activity. This neat and rather modest colonial-style bungalow is not open to visitors. The National Museum with its handwritten Qur'an engraved on the walls, and old artefacts from the buddhist era are worth a visit! The golden-domed Grand Friday Mosque dominates the skyline of Male and has become the symbol of the city. The plain building was built in white marble and can be visited outside prayer times. The main market is an adumbral, absolutely authentic hangar-full of Indian Ocean aromas; betel nut, freshly caught fish, fruit, vegetables and fabrics and for those looking for small souvenirs this is the place to go to! THE ATOLLS Visitors arrive at Hulhule Island international airport and most of them head straight to one of the many resort islands spread over an area of more than 820 square kilometres. Only about 100 of the 1200 small coral islands and sandbanks are used for touristic purposes with 220 inhabited by Maldivians. Most of them are not longer than one kilometre and can be explored easily on foot. At first sight they may seem alike: shallow sandbanks rising just a metre or two above the sea, they are covered with coconut trees, tropical flowers and the odd dramatic Banyan tree. A belt of white sand embraces these little slivers of heaven in the middle of turquoise shimmering lagoons. This unique beauty is the reason guests chose the Maldives for their holidays; to relax in the shadow of the trees, to forget about the hassles of urban life and to feel the sand between their toes. They come to surf and sail, to snorkel and to dive or to simply read a book on the beach. But anyone’s who’s looked through a travel brochure or browsed the internet for hours knows how difficult it is to choose just one beautiful island over another...

Since the Male Atolls were discovered by shipwrecked surfers in the 1970s, they have emerged as a leading attraction on the international surf scene.

NORTH & SOUTH MALE ATOLL From a bird's eye view the 26 atolls of Maldives look like pearls on a string surrounding shallow blue lagoons - a breathtaking sight that provides a unique memory for visitors flying over the atolls to land in the geographical centre: the North Male Atoll. Together with South Male Atoll it is home to many of the country’s most famous and best-established resorts and all the islands here are within easy reach of the capital city and the Maldives’ international airport. Famous luxury hotel chains like One & Only, Banyan Tree, Sheraton and Four Seasons are located here and offer everything the seasoned traveller could wish for: gourmet restaurants, spas, top notch service, fairy-tale beaches and last but not least, a lot of privacy. But not only the luxury island resorts of the atoll attract visitors - since the Male Atolls were discovered by shipwrecked surfers in the 1970s, they have emerged as a leading attraction on the international surf scene. Today, spots like Jailbreak with its pristine right-handed barrels for hundreds of meters, close to the island of Himmafushi are known among surfers around the world. Surf camps and guesthouses in the North Male Atoll, like on the island of Thuludhoo in the Kaafu Atoll offer budget accommodiation and plenty of boat charters in the area take their wave riding guests to the surrounding main breaks. Away from the young surfer crowd, the exclusive resorts Huraa, Himmafushi and Dhiffushi island lie in the blue sea like oases. Lush palm trees, bright red hibiscus flowers and tropical fruits make them seem like scenes from Robinson Crusoe. Even though the islands still belong to the North Male Atoll, they are far less developed than neighbouring islands and are mainly inhabited by fishermen. A couple of hundred inhabitants, a few charming guesthouses, little souvenir shops and old mosques make these rural islands a perfect destination for a day trip. A similar atmosphere can be found on the islands south of the channel that separates North from South Male Atoll. This is partly due to the lack of people – there are only three inhabited islands here – and partly to do with the fact that the uninhabited islands are spread out so you really feel that you’re remote from the hustle and bustle of Male and its surrounding islands. The biggest island in South Male Atoll is Maafushi, with a population of about 1200 people and quite a few guesthouses. Indeed, during high season there are as many foreigners as locals on the island, making it the Maldives' most cosmopolitan and progressive inhabited island. It can be reached in just a couple of hours by public ferry from Male. Nearby Guraidhoo has a busy port used by both fishing dhonis and passing safari boats. Sultans from Male sought refuge here during rebellions from as early as the 17th century, while today it’s popular with budget travellers who stay at the affordable guesthouses. Visitors from nearby resorts can actually walk across the lagoon at low tide when the water is very shallow.

Other inhabited islands are dotted around the edges of the atoll and a few have ruins or artefacts of ancient Buddhist and Hindu settlements.

ARI & NORTH ARI ATOLL Ari Atoll is located west of the Male Atoll and at 80 kilometres from north to south and a width of 30 kilometres it's the second biggest atoll in the Maldives. Like Male Atoll it is separated into a southern and northern part, and it’s well known for diving. One site, Ukulhas Thila is a heaven for underwater adventurers with its long and narrow pinnacle, a flat top and reef slope down to 30 metres. At the end of the reef top divers discover underwater treasure: a cleaning station for mantas. From December to April mantas go there to get their skin, gills and teeth cleaned by parasites and bright blue striped cleaner wrasse. The mantas will hang around, sometimes for hours, patiently waiting their turn at the cleaner station – ideally for the watching divers. Mahibadhoo is the capital of South Ari with around 2000 people. There are now several guesthouses and it's a good place to experience life in a large Maldivian town. Other inhabited islands are dotted around the edges of the atoll and a few have ruins or artefacts of ancient Buddhist and Hindu settlements. Well known hotels in this area are the Conrad Rangali and two resorts of the Mauritian Constance group. ADDU ATOLL The southernmost atoll of the Maldives is close to the equator, and about 450 kilometres away from Malé. During the Second World War it was used as a base for the Royal Navy. Today all that is left is an old wreck of the oil tanker British which is a must-see for divers in this area as well as the many underwater caves where one can often spot turtles and little sharks. Addu Atoll also has the highest point in the Maldives: the island Villingili is 2.4 metres above sea level. RAA & BAA ATOLL These two atolls opened to tourism only a few years ago, and offer a variety of dream islands and interesting dive sites. The Raa and the Baa Atoll are separated by the Moresby channel and belong to the northern atolls of the Maldives archipelago. Most of the islands have a dense and natural vegetation with the typical "Bacardi feeling" travellers long for. In Raa atoll only one island hosts a hotel, while the ‘local’ islands in Baa Atoll are known for their arts and crafts and the art of weaving.

Most of the islands have a dense and natural vegetation with the typical "Bacardi feeling" travellers long for.

a history of maldives

ARI & NORTH ARI ATOLL DHAALU & FAAFU ATOLL The islands of Dhaalu and Faafu lie south of Ari Atoll and like Raa and Baa Atoll, they were only developed for tourism recently. The famous Norwegian archaeologist Thor Heyerdahl dug out several important sites from the pre-Islamic Buddhist era on the island of Kumundhoo in the Dhaalu Atoll. Known locally as Us-Kunna the remains form a stone circle - 156 feet in circumference and 10 feet in height - likely remains of an ancient Buddhist stupa (the oldest Buddhist religious monument). The ruins of a hawaitta (archeological mounds) known as the Jaadi Valhulithan stand on the western periphery of the island of Vaikaradhoo. The apparent remains of a mosque with a cemetery and a large well were found on the nearby uninhabited island of Vaikaramuraidhoo and evidence suggest it was built between the 15th and 17th centuries. FELIDHU ATOLL This relatively little populated quiet atoll includes the Vattaru Atoll and is inhabited mainly by local fishing communities. But it has one of the world-renowned diving reefs on its eastern edge: Fotteyo Kadu. With its colourful corals and lively schools of jacks, sergeant fish, whitetip reef sharks, turtles and sometimes eagle rays it should be on every diver's wish list when visiting the atoll. MEEMU, LAAMU & THAA ATOLL The atolls south of Male are little pieces of heaven, floating on the surface of the dark blue sea. With their secluded beaches and untouched nature the resorts in this area are ideal for lazy holidays; tourist are still relatively rare in this area of Maldives. Meemu Atoll has eight inhabited islands and only three of them have resorts. The islands here are known not only for their superb dive sites - experts come here to dive Eagle trail, Jumping Jack tunnel and the two brothers. Meemu also has some excellent surf breaks on its eastern edge like Veyvah Point, Boahuraa Point and Mulee Point, which are gradually being explored by more adventurous surfers. The diving sites around Laamu and Thaa can get quite challenging with strong currents in the canals. Inexperienced divers might be better staying above the surface and visiting some of the archaeological sites. At the northeastern tip of the atoll, on Isdhoo, a giant black dome rises above the palms, belonging to the 300 year old Friday Mosque. It was probably built on the site of an earlier temple, because it faces directly west, rather than towards Mecca.

HAA ALIFU ATOLL Lying about 280 km away from Male is the northernmost atoll of the Maldives, and possibly the most historically interesting island in the Northern Atolls. It is the birthplace of Sultan Mohammed Thakurufaanu, who overthrew the Portuguese rule in the 16th century, and the island is centred around a memorial to this Maldivian hero, complete with a small museum and library. Elsewhere in the atoll is the capital island Dhiggaru: here you'll find the only tea room run by women in the country. At the very top of Haa Alifu, Uligamu is the ‘clear-in’ port for private yachts arriving in Maldivian waters. It has health and immigration officers, so yachts are able to complete all entry formalities there. The remaining islands of the northern atolls are known for their remote appeal. The Barefoot EcoHotel on Hanimadhoo island made the headlines around three years ago as the Maldives' first resort to open on an already inhabited island. For 40 years the government had wanted to avoid having a traditional Islamic community living side by side with tourists practising their more liberal - bikini-wearing, alcoholconsuming lifestyles. But on Hanimadhoo the local community is part of the hotel: many of the staff are local people and if they are not from the island, then a many are young students working for the summer to earn money while studying. Unusual touches include the resort's relaxing zen-music provided by a renowned Maldivian DJ - Ngie - who happens to be a woman. From the eco-designed beach villas, blending into the natural habitat of the trees and tropical bushes that line the shore, to the pieces of art created entirely from reclaimed coral – this is the perfect oasis of calm to unwind and regenerate body and soul. But it is not only the design that is pure: the management follows the ecotourism principles of uniting sustainability and conservation. Renewable energy, ecologically grown wood, fairtrade construction standards and a solid waste management programme were put in place so as to have minimal impact on the local environment and reduce the resort's carbon footprint.

Reservations +960-400-0300, +960-979-9000, +960-664-2222 Address Ithaafushi Island, South Male Atoll, Republic of Maldives Email MLEON.hotel@waldorfastoria.com www.waldorfastoriamaldives.com

Maldives in full colour Seeking out a relaxing vacation in the Indian Ocean!! Kurumba Maldives is situated in the North Male Atoll and is a convenient 10-minute speedboat ride from Male International Airport. The recently renovated landmark property welcomes guests of all ages and has evolved to fit the needs of discerning 21st-century travelers with its top-notch services and amenities. Once you have cleared the airport formalities, you can be checked in, feet soaking in our snorkel-friendly lagoon's warm, turquoise waters. Offering a variety of watersports, both over and under, and land-based activities. The island also boasts one of the most vibrant house reefs in the atoll and is ideal for beginners to experience a variety of marine life in a beautiful, yet safe environment. Complemented by a choice of 7 restaurants, as well as 3 bars, dining at Kurumba allows for unparalleled choice.

www.kurumba.com

Maldivian culture reflects many influences gathered from around the Indian Ocean basin; India, Sri Lanka, Arabia, Persia, Indonesia, Malaysia and Africa. All kinds of customs and traditions from this lively melting pot have helped form a unique culture over the centuries.

culture

aldivian dance and music show African influences, with rhythmic beating of drums and songs in a language resembling that of East African countries. The so called "Bodu Beru" meaning “ Big Drums” in Dhivehi – is the most popular traditional music here and almost every inhabited island has its own troupe to play at special functions, festivals or simply to entertain hotel guests. The bands - wearing traditional sarongs and white sleeved shirts - usually use up to four drums made from hollowed coconut wood and covered on both ends with manta ray skin or goat hide and are beaten with a variety of percussion instruments. The performance begins on a slow and mellow tempo and increases to a very fast pace, while the dancers move all around an improvised stage, in a very vigorous demonstration that sometimes looks almost as if they have gone into a trance. In local cuisine, it is South Asia that has had the greatest influence with highly spiced curries combining coconut milk and fish served with traditional flatbreads known as ‘roshi’. It’s no surprise that the main staple is locally caught fish, and noone forgets the taste and flavour of that Indian Ocean catch! There are a few ways to prepare fish in a traditional way: the "Garudihiya" is a soup with the whole fish thrown inside. Don't be scared of the strong smell, the taste is all the better! Another strong tradition, fortunately abandoned today – is using turtle meat, though this is now illegal, and happily has now been replaced by chicken in the modern Maldivian kitchen. The most common side dish is no surprise - rice, just as in most South Asian countries. One local invention of note is "Masbaiy" a special kind of paella where rice and tuna are spiced up with coconut milk, curry, chilly and a lot of onion - a challenge for European tastes at times, but a must for fans of spicy food. Vegetarians have great options to chose from, especially the half-moon shaped dumplings filled with potatoes known as "Peteez", or "Biskimiya" (fried pastry) with an egg and soybean filling. If you have a sweet tooth you must try "Kirukeyo", a special kind of rice pudding made with coconut milk, bananas and cinnamon. Besides a wide range of international dishes most of the hotels offer also traditional dishes. However the preparation is usually tourist-friendly with less chilly, and adapted to an international taste. The islands also adapted to tourism when it comes to alcoholic beverages. Forbidden in the Islamic culture, hotels do offer cocktails, wine, beer and the local brew, "Raa", which is a sweet toddy made from the crown of the coconut palm.

It’s no surprise that the main staple is locally caught fish, and no-one forgets the taste and flavour of that Indian Ocean catch!

CULTURE

Maldivians are known for being skilled craftsmen; the intricate stone carvings found in the Friday Mosque in Male are a living example. Traditions are passed from one generation to another and the arts and crafts made today are a testament to these ancient skills. Lacquer ware is probably the most popular form of art in Maldives along with Kunaa mats. Lacquer ware is a very important part of the country's history and collectors from all around the world travel to the islands to acquire antique pieces. Lacquer work includes different carved wooden objects such as vases, jewellery boxes, bowls, baskets. The craftsman shapes the wood and then coats it layer after layer with different colours. Black, red and yellow are traditionally the most used colours and were made from the juices from trees and insects in the early days. Green can also be seen sometimes, while gold and silver are used to add appeal to special pieces. When the coating is finished and dry the items are polished with dry coconut leaves. Wooden lacquer artwork can be found all over the islands with the most famous region being Thulhaadhoo in Baa Atoll. Thulhaadoo craftmen used to supply the royal Maldivian families and acquired a very strong reputation in and outside of the country. While the lacquer work is mostly done by men, the weaving of Kunaa mats is a tradition that was passed from mothers to daughters. The most beautiful pieces were used as royal gifts from the sultan of Maldives to the Dutch and British governors of Sri Lanka. Nowadays these mats are still offered to visiting diplomats, foreign dignitaries and other VIPs visiting the islands. Traditionally used for sleeping, seating or praying, the size of the mats vary accordingly. The reeds used to create these mats are cultivated and gathered on the local islands, dried under the sun and then dyed in a natural colour, or sometimes in yellow, brown or black. Another old craft that reflects Maldivian heritage and is still carried out by few Maldivian artisans is jewellery manufacturing. The people from Rinbudhoo on the northern rim of Dhaalu Atoll have the reputation of being the finest jewellery makers in the Maldives. According to Maldivian legend, the chief jeweller of the Sultan taught the islanders after getting exiled to Rinbudhoo island for stealing the king’s gold which was in his care. They have passed the art on from generation to generation.

The weaving of Kunaa mats is a tradition that was passed from mothers to daughters. The most beautiful pieces were used as royal gifts from the sultan of Maldives to the Dutch and British governors of Sri Lanka. 47

CULTURE

Today the manufacturing of such jewellery has become very expensive and therefore many craftsmen have moved into other professions. However a new generation of Maldivians artisans are little by little rediscovering this ancient art, and are sometimes commissioned to create such objects for special occasions. From the most ancient times Maldivians used the wood of different trees to create vases, kitchen utensils, cutlery, jewellery boxes and various containers. More recent times have seen a concentration on miniature models representing the old Maldivian culture and way of life. One the most famous example of these miniatures is the new art known as Dhoni crafting. Dhonis are the original traditional Maldivian wooden sailing boats and are still used as transportation or fishing vessels. Wood carvings are sometimes painted or lacquered and make wonderful souvenirs. The oldest Maldivian dress, the Dhivehi libaas, is a perfect demonstration of Maldives’ most exceptional embroidery techniques. This traditional dress is adorned by a very unique cloth piece called Kasabu viyun. Kasabu viyun entails silver and gold laces hand stitched into the neckline of the Dhivehi libaas. Unfortunately very few people sill practice this traditional work and it is not only very difficult but also expensive to obtain a high quality piece. Even though people use sewing machines these days, the most complicated part of the work is still done by hand. The libaas have evolved over time, but you can still see many women wearing the traditional dress in the streets of Male or on the local islands. The traditional libaas is worn with an underskirt tissue piece called feyli. Feyli is an important piece of costume for both men and women and records show that it has been a part of the Maldivian culture since as far back as the 14th century.

KURUMBA

The fairytale development of an iconic, island holiday resort

In 1972, the Maldives turned its attention to new horizons: tourism.

or visitors flying into the Maldives in 2022, it must be hard to imagine how the Indian Ocean archipelago was 50 years ago, when Kurumba, the country’s first private island resort opened to receive her first guests on the 3rd October 1972. Situated in the North Malé Atoll, merely 10 minutes speedboat from both the capital and Malé International Airport, Kurumba is a 5-star resort that peerlessly blends the heritage of the Maldives with contemporary luxuries. On arrival guests are greeted with the staples the Maldives are renowned for, a tropical sanctuary of powder soft sands and the azure waters of the Indian Ocean; but it’s the charm of Kurumba that sets this island apart from others. An idyllic home away from home for both couples and families, Kurumba’s pathways through lush foliage and stunning gardens of frangipani, hibiscus and bougainvillea lead to a myriad of private villas steps from the shoreline. The lure of this island has seen guests revisit Kurumba time and time again. Its story is synonymous with tourism in the Maldives, an industry that could have easily missed its chance to grow, yet flourished thanks to the right people in the right place at the right time, and the passion and determination of its young Maldivian founders… For thousands of years the Maldives have been a magnet for travellers, with seaman and merchants sailing across the Indian Ocean happening upon the islands either by design or shipwreck. With 1,190 islands (of which only 200 are inhabited) the Maldives in 1972 was mostly unknown to the outside world, with no foreign investment this remote archipelago was home to fisher folk. The 122,673 inhabitants spread across the capital, Malé, and several local islands. Those who have seen Malé in recent years will know it as a bustling city, but in 1972 it consisted of coral-stone cottages, coconut trees, unpaved sandy streets, no main water, and an intermittent electricity supply. There were few motor vehicles, only two taxis, and zero guesthouses. The country’s industry relied almost entirely on its fishing exports to Ceylon. After a halt in this export in 1972, the Maldives turned its attention to new horizons: tourism. The first travellers, a group of Italians, arrived from Ceylon in February 1972. There was neither any guesthouse, nor resort – the guests were hosted in February 1972 on Malé by three friends, Ahmed Naseem, Mohamed Umar Maniku and Hussein Afeef. The three young men were vanguards in Maldivian tourism and began working together to develop the first islands for tourist resorts. М U Maniku, became the Chairman of Universal Enterprises, a position he still holds and Hussein Afeef, who is today the owner of several resorts in the Maldives as well as in the Seychelles and in Norway.

KURUMBA

The fairytale development of an iconic, island holiday resort

The Maldives in 1972 was mostly unknown to the outside world, with no foreign investment this remote archipelago was home to fisher folk.

They chose their first island, Vihamanafushi (the original name of Kurumba) for their first foray because of its proximity to the airstrip and the capital. Access was by sailing Dhoni, but the island had no jetty (although one was later built using coconut trunks as pillars) so guests had to wade through the surf to the beach. Kurumba Village, named after the Dhivehi word for coconut, officially opened to guests on Tuesday 3rd October 1972 and was a true testament to the tenacity and resilience of Maniku, Afeef and Naseem, their stylistic choices for the resort’s first rooms set the scene for the aesthetic still known in the Maldives today. The goal from the outset was to develop something unique, they had no interest in mass tourism and concrete buildings, they celebrated Maldivian culture in every decision. Local materials such as coral stone and lime for walls, coconut timber for beams and palm thatch for the roof were used on the 30 beachfront rooms in blocks of three, each featuring a brackish water shower, toilet, basic furniture. Meals were taken in the makeshift restaurant, but most often guests ate their catch of the day barbequed on the beach. Recalling the pioneering days М U Maniku says: “We were very young, only in our twenties and we had a lot of ego, a lot of confidence. It was like a fire in my belly that couldn't be put out. We never looked back. Luckily for us, tourists wanted simplicity in natural surroundings and that was what we had to offer - we had nothing in the Maldives then. The streets were sand. There were no banks, no proper airport, no telephone, only ham radio or Morse code contact with Colombo. Even the UNDP experts said that tourism would never succeed because there were no facilities, no infrastructure." he recalls. "We used small boats to get around the islands. The rooms had a tarpaulin on the sandy ground to start with, at first there were no fans, just open doors.” Over the next several years Kurumba’s reputation spread by word of mouth, and the resort went from strength-tostrength.

Over the next several years Kurumba’s reputation spread by word of mouth, and the resort went from strength-to-strength.

In the space of just six years (1973-1979) 26 resorts opened including Baros, Kuramathi and Velassaru, bringing the number of beds available to 1,536. In 1978 as his involvement with Kurumba and other resorts grew, М U Maniku joined forces with his brother, Ahmed Umar Maniku to consolidate their various enterprises into one entity: Universal Enterprises (Private) Limited, with M U Maniku as Chairman. Sustainable tourism practices were introduced, some obvious – passport control, some more nuanced for the Maldives – a ban on spearfishing and a law prohibiting the unauthorised felling of trees on resort islands. Kurumba began plans to completely redefine what Maldivian tourism looked like; the benchmark standard of accommodation and facilities for tourists was set for other resorts to follow. The reopening of Kurumba Village in 1987 ushered in a new era, forever changing guest expectation of a holiday in the Maldives. Universal Resorts engaged architects from Germany to help modernise and expand Kurumba whilst preserving their gardens and coconut groves.

In 2003, Kurumba underwent a complete transformation yet again, to meet the demands of the 21st century.

The new designs were groundbreaking, with specially engineered swimming pools and restaurants curated around specific cuisines. At the time, Kurumba was achieving the impossible; “our food and beverage philosophy has always been the same – to listen and give guests what they want.” says M U Maniku, “When we added those restaurants, we had to make sure we provided the best in service and cuisine. We started the new Kurumba with a German chef and we had the best ingredients, the best of everything, regardless of the cost. We wanted to set a standard.” The island's infrastructure too, was dramatically improved with the construction of a desalination plant converting seawater to freshwater to accommodate their new capacity of 300 guests. Throughout the following 15 years Kurumba’s heritage in Maldivian hospitality was cemented, Universal Enterprises’ policy with resorts, especially the flagship resort of Kurumba Village, has always been to pioneer. “We would often break and build," says М U Maniku, “so that we could create something up to date.” With renovations came innovations with conservation at the heart, solar energy was introduced for hot water, Maniku’s background as a horticulturist developed the garden’s Kurumba are known for today, the orchid nursey was introduced, along with a vegetable garden and thousands of plants specifically introduced to help the control of erosion and countering sand movement to ensure the ecology of the island survives. In 2003, Kurumba underwent a complete transformation yet again, to meet the demands of the 21st century. The result was a world-class resort with 180 rooms, including the Royal Residence, Presidential Suites, Pool Villas, Family Villas and beach and garden superior rooms. Kurumba’s advent as the first holiday resort 50 years ago was the catalyst for the country now known to be one of the world’s most luxurious destinations for discerning travellers. From its humble origins accommodating only 60 guests a month, it’s somewhat astonishing to think that in 2019 there were 1.7 million tourist arrivals to the Maldives’ 132 resorts. In 2022, Kurumba is still driven by the pioneering spirit of M U Maniku, continuously breaking boundaries of Maldivian tourism. Celebrating Maldives in full colour, the resort now features eight room categories, seven restaurants, an award-winning spa, and a kids club for children ages 4-13 years. The resort’s signature Deluxe Bungalows and Deluxe Beachfront Bungalows hide among the fragrant tropic flora in graceful horseshoe shaped clusters, just yards from the pure white beaches corralling the island. Each features a king-sized bed, luxurious dual-basin bathroom, a glass-walled shower, a giant freestanding bathtub, and- adjoining the bungalow- a delightful garden containing an outside shower and spacious decking veranda. Guests wanting more luxury and privacy can opt for Kurumba villa rooms, starting with the Beach Villa and the Garden Pool Villas that offer plunge pools within your private open-plan courtyard with rain shower to cool off. Kurumba’s Deluxe Pool Villas are even more sumptuous with the additional luxuries of a large private pool (each uniquely shaped) with a waterfall, day bed and wooden terrace, all enclosed within a walled garden. The largest of these pool villas are the resort’s four Family Villas; these are duplex apartments of over 306 sq metres, each with a large living area and interior courtyard.

KURUMBA

The fairytale development of an iconic, island holiday resort

However, the largest and most extravagant villa on the island is the Two Bedroom Kurumba Residence. Measuring 768 sq metres in diameter and housing two bedrooms, two private pools, a huge living area and veranda, this opulent suite has proved a favourite of many visiting dignitaries and heads of state. Every category of accommodation on the island comes fully equipped with all the modern amenities you would expect from a first-class resort. Few resorts in the Maldives can match Kurumba for the variety and quality of the food available. The resort has a total of 7 restaurants serving an eclectic selection of the finest world cuisines. One could eat solely in Vihamana, the main restaurant, and never tire of the international gourmet cuisines served for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The speciality restaurants on the island still offer a range of fine dining options to suit every palate. Deciding whether to savour far-eastern sushi and teppenyaki at the over water Hamakaze or feast within the palatial Lebanese décor of Al Qasr (sampling its grilled meats and kebabs) is not an easy decision. Making a choice between the delicious Indian, and Thai menus of Mahal and Khing Thai, respectively, is equally difficult. For guests who want to season their meals with a pinch of Maldives romance, Kurumba’s award-winning restaurant Thila offers a unique beachfront setting in which to dine; relish the finest grilled seafood by candlelight surrounded by a panoramic vista of the ocean. Those seeking total intimacy can request a private dining experience for two, either on the beach, out on a yacht or even on their own desert island. The Sounds of the Sea is a favourite. For those feeling a little more social, the resort also features three bars: Fez, the island’s shisha bar with rich Arabic colours and elegant designs serving colourful cocktails and a range of shisha flavours, Athiri, set on the beach for the best sunsets and the lively Kandu, where guests can share a drink and conversation in the company of a live bands and local dance. Surrounded by soothing reflection ponds, the Veli Spa is an oasis of serenity in the heart of the island. Here, guests can enjoy a dedicated yoga session and unwind in the relaxation lounge. Guests are led to one of eight single or couples treatment rooms to feel stress melt away via the creative range of treatments available. Using fragrant local herbs and spices the Thai, Balinese and Maldivian massages are a particular treat. Alternatively, you may want to indulge in reflexology or simply revitalize your skin with a selection of exotic body wraps and polishes. For a more romantic experience “The Spa Under the Stars” offers couples a chance to watch the sunset whilst enjoying unique cowrie shell massage using local hand pressed Coconut oil. The resort’s other facilities are equally impressive. For families there is the Majaa Recreation Club and the Majaa Kid Club offering fun and enriching experiences with a Maldivian twist including traditional craft making and beachfront games. The Sports centre offers a fully equipped gym, pool, and three floodlit tennis courts.

The reopening of Kurumba Village in 1987 ushered in a new era

KURUMBA

The fairytale development of an iconic, island holiday resort

However, if water sports are your passion then Kurumba is the place to visit, with the Dive School offering a full range of PADI diving courses. Beginners are eased into the sport gently in the clear shallow waters of the lagoon and, once competent, guests are taken to explore the most spectacular dive sites in the Maldives. Dazzling shoals of iridescent tropical fish wait to greet you as friendly reef sharks, manta ray and turtles swim by. The calm waters surrounding the island are also ideal for kayaking, waterskiing, windsurfing and parasailing, all of which can be found at the Water Sports Centre and there are Fun Tubes and Banana Rodeos available to keep children entertained. This is all in addition to a wide range of fascinating local excursions including the Sand Bank Picnic. Guests can sail the Indian Ocean in a traditional Maldivian Dhoni (stopping for a picnic on a desert island), wave to the dolphins on the ever-popular sunset cruise or partake in a spot of night-fishing under the stars. Sustainability and conservation have continued to play a pivotal role in Kurumba’s story. The resort run and support several CSR programmes including the Kudhakudhinge Hiyaa Orphanage in Villingili and the new ARC’s Early Childhood Play and Development Training Programme. They continue to strive to operate as sustainably as possible, Kurumba boasts one of the most effective and comprehensive recycling centres of any resort in the Maldives; their glass is ground to reuse in cementing and their recyclable plastics cardboards and metals are all fully recycled. They have ‘super composter’ that composts Kitchen waste within 3 hours for use on the gardens. Kurumba also support local artisans across the resort, Veli Spa uses locally sourced Maldivian coconut oil for massages and treatments and their Nala Boutique brings guests paintings and crafts from Maldivian artists. A process of natural growth, and of proud perseverance, led by heartfelt service over the years. Kurumba has matured into the Grand Hotel of the Maldives, continuously and proudly setting the benchmark for hospitality in the region. www.kurumba.com

Ithaafushi

The Private Island

ITHAAFUSHI THE PRIVATE ISLAND

Nestled between a beautiful sheltered lagoon and the Indian Ocean, and surrounded by breathtaking coral reefs and clear waters is the largest Maldivian private island, Ithaafushi. When translated, Ithaafushi means ‘Pearl Island’ in Dhivehi, the local language in the Maldives and refers to the isle’s beauty and distinction. The island benefits from warm, sunny climes all year round, with peak warmth between March and April. The island is only 40 minutes by private yacht and fifteen minutes by seaplane from Malé airport and the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi’s personal concierge team are on hand from the moment guests arrive to ensure every need is met throughout their stay on the island. Ithaafushi offers incredible privacy, and world-class service with a whole team of dedicated staff from personal concierge to private chef’s. The island can accommodate 24 guest in total (18 adults and 6 children) across two villas and one four-bedroom residence on the island. The three-bedroom beachside villa is set within stunning gardens and surrounded by coconut palms and boasts its own direct beach access and two swimming pools, whilst the two-bedroom overwater villa offers a unique ocean experience and two spacious master bedrooms. The over-water villa also features indoor and outdoor rain showers, infinity pool and jacuzzi. The four bedroom residence on the island has two king-sized bedrooms, two queen bedrooms a generous living area, numerous jacuzzis and direct access to the beach. All of the villas feature luscious gardens and outdoor spaces, featuring the most comfortable loungers and outdoor furniture with mesmerising sea views.

ITHAAFUSHI THE PRIVATE ISLAND

The private dining team on the island are dedicated to taking guests on a culinary journey, offering bespoke menus within the most magical surroundings.

Guests can savour world-class dining for any occasion, from in-villa dining to special celebrations in the estate’s common room, ‘The Nest’ (Haali). If guests prefer a wider selection of world-class cuisine, they can make the short journey to the main island and sample the fantastic variety the restaurants there have to offer. If privacy is key for guests, they can dine in the only private handcrafted bamboo pods at Terra, located on the main island at the highest point offering breathaking views. Ithaafushi has its own wellness concierge at the overwater spa to provide customised therapies to cater to the needs of every guest to allow them to connect with nature, relax and unwind during their unique spa experience. The beautiful yoga pavilion provides an inspiring and nurturing space for yoga and outdoor exercises from sunrise to sunset. The nourishing wellness experiences on offer at Ithaafushi are complimented by fresh, healthy and natural menus curated by experts with inventive and flavoursome alternatives to cater for any dietary requirement or specialised diet. The remarkable experiences on offer at Ithaafushi will leave guests able to relax, unwind and enjoy the breath-taking atmosphere of the island and transport them from everyday life as they relax on the ocean swings, palm hammocks and sunken pool loungers. If adventure is on the agenda, guests can explore the depths of the sparkling ocean with a plethora of water sports, yacht excursions and diving opportunities during

their stay. Guest can also enjoy an off-island experience venturing to a private sandbank in the middle of the ocean where guests can indulge in a sunset dinner, personal yoga session or just enjoy the blissful surroundings at their leisure. Younger guests are also able to enjoy their own dedicated children’s pool and gaming area during their stay or alternatively enjoy the Stars Club & Club Nova – a club for teens at the main resort that features a water recreation area and a range of different activities designed to capture the imagination of all. One of the newest additions to the island’s recreational activities is the tennis and padel tennis courts which guarantee immense amounts of fun for both adults and children. Ithaafushi, The Private Island also offers an incredible package for a dream wedding in the most idyllic of locations; not only can guests enjoy the wedding of their dreams in paradise, but there are also exceptional culinary offerings and expertly tailored experiences for the ultimate day, tailored by the dedicated events team on the island to create an unforgettable wedding day with perfect memories to last a lifetime.

ITHAAFUSHI THE PRIVATE ISLAND

Reservations +960-400-0300, +960-979-9000, +960-664-2222 Address Ithaafushi Island, South Male Atoll, Republic of Maldives Email MLEON.hotel@waldorfastoria.com www.waldorfastoriamaldives.com

kurumba MALDIVES

A cosmopolitan resort with an insatiable vibrant and lively atmosphere, Kurumba Maldives is a private island resort offering a 5-star blend of luxury and tranquillity that tempts many a visitor to its sandy shores time and time again. As the very first private island resort to open in the Maldives 50 years ago, Kurumba offers warm and friendly service, elegant guest rooms, exhilarating excursions, and a variety of delectable dining options, it’s the perfect backdrop for a dreamy island getaway. A true home away from home. The ripple of the waves sound as you speed across the ocean as bustle of Malé fades to a whisper. Conveniently located just 10 minutes from the airport, Kurumba offers travellers a heavenly blend of powder soft sands, the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, lush gardens ablaze with frangipani, hibiscus and bougainvillea stretch across the island and shady coconut groves that rise over 180 luxury bungalows and villas. Luxury comes in many shapes and sizes with no less than eight categories of accommodation; choose from spacious split-level residences, villas with private pools or adjoining rooms perfect for sharing. Whether a romantic retreat or a family adventure, Kurumba gives guests a space to call their own. Each villa at Kurumba has a fresh and modern design, rich woods, high ceilings and earthy hues layered with a touch of colour, alongside state-of-the-art facilities. Kurumba’s signature Deluxe Bungalows and Beachfront Deluxe Bungalows each feature their very own private garden containing an outside shower and spacious decking veranda for sunset tipples. The bungalows themselves are hidden amongst the lush fragrant tropic flora just yards from the pure white beaches corralling the island. Each boasts a giant free-standing bathtub, a luxurious dual-basin bathroom, a glass-walled shower and king-sized beds. Guests seeking opulence and privacy can opt for Kurumba villa rooms, starting with the Beach Villa, and the Garden Pool Villas that offer plunge pools within your private open-plan courtyard with rain shower to cool off. Kurumba’s Deluxe Pool Villas are even more sumptuous with the additional luxuries of a large private pool with a waterfall, day bed and wooden terrace.

KURUMBA

Luxury comes in many shapes and sizes with no less than eight categories of accommodation. What they all have in common is a fresh and modern design, with plush stateof-the-art facilities. Whilst the introductory Superior and Deluxe rooms have a graceful contemporary Maldivian style with open air showers and sunny ocean-side balconies, the resort’s signature Deluxe Bungalows and Deluxe Beachfront Bungalows each feature their very own private garden containing an outside shower and spacious decking veranda for The across bungalows themselves are hidden Thesunset Familytipples. Villa spans two floors, upstairs amongst thealush tropic flora justwhilst yards from the guests will find kingfragrant bedroom and en-suite, pure white corralling the island. Each boasts a gidownstairs canbeaches be configured for individual ant free-standing a luxurious dual-basin requirements; couplesbathtub, can keep as a spacious living bathroom, a glass-walled shower and king-sized room, or families can transform the spacebeds. into a Guests seeking ultimate opulence and privacy can opt for second bedroom. Outside unwind in a private Kurumba's starting with Villa with Jacuzswimming pool,Villas, just steps from thethe sea.Private Thoughtful zi, and the Garden PoolWine VillasCellar, that offer pools within touches include an in-villa dailyplunge premium your private courtyard within rain shower to cool breakfast in Thilaopen-plan and afternoon cocktails Kandu Bar.off. Kurumba’s Deluxe Pool Villas are even more sumptuous with the additional luxuries of Bedroom a large private pool with a Elsewhere the expansive Two Kurumwaterfall, day bed and wooden terrace. ba Residence spreads across 768sqm; housing two If you two wantprivate a slicepools, of celebrity lifestyle, the largest and bedrooms, a pantry and kitchenette, extravagant the island the Two Bedroom andmost a huge living areavilla and on veranda, this is opulent suite Residence. Measuring a whopping 768 square has Kurumba played host to celebrities, local dignitaries and and two bedrooms, evenmetres headsin ofdiameter state. With thehousing epitome in privacy andtwo private pools, huge living area and veranda; thisor opulent suite has luxury, thearesidence accommodates 6 adults 4 played to celebrities, local dignitaries and even heads adults and host 4 children. of state. The dining is what truly sets this resort apart from With a total of 8 restaurants within the resort, each others. With a tantalising world ofbased flavours to explore an eclectic selection of the world’s finest andoffering their award-winning signature restaurant, Thila, cuisines, thoroughly spoilt guests are each well catered for. Deciding Kurumba has eight restaurants, whether to visit Vihamanaa, main restaurant offering an eclectic selectionthe of the world’s finestfor unhurried all-day dining, to savour far-eastern sushi cuisines. Speciality restaurants on the island offer a and teppenyaki the options over-water Hamakaze or to feast within the range of a laat carte to suit every palate; savour palatial Lebanese décor Al Qasr is Hamakaze not an easyordecision to sushi and Teppanyaki at theof over-water Making a choice between the delicious Indian, Thai dinemake. on Middle Eastern delicacies within the opulent anddécor Mediterranean Mahal, Khing Thai and Thila, Arabic of Al Qasr. menus Chooseofbetween delicious respectively is equally asyour difficult. Indian at Mahal or if Thai is preferred cuisine, eat solely Vihamanaa, makeOne surecould you visit Khingat Thai to samplethe themain buffet restaurant;spiced, servingaromatic varied range ofon gourmet beautifully dishes offer. food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Café playfulthe Maldivian and savoury One could eat solely atoffers Vihamanaa, main buffet Asian classics with quick bitesofand comfort foods restaurant; serving varied range gourmet food for - not forgetting their cream. breakfast, lunch andfamous dinner.homemade Café offers ice freshly baked Ocean-side gourmet restaurant Thila offers a delectable pizzas, delicious salads and sandwiches along with a premium breakfast, replete with free-flow sparkling wine, range of Maldivian specialties. a wide range of a la carte options and a luscious breakfast buffet, featuring (among much else) warm baked pastries and a variety of honey! Guests can indulge in a signature coconut Kurumba coffee in the fresh morning air and watch the sun sparkle off the sea.

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Ocean-side gourmet restaurant Thila offers a delectable premium breakfast, replete with free-flow sparkling wine, a wide range of a la carte Dinner optionsatand a is a feast for the senses, dining by the sea, under Thila luscious breakfast buffet, featuring (among much else) the stars, by candlelight with a menu brimming with the freshest warm baked pastries and a variety of honey! Guests prepared with flair by the chefs in the open kitchen. ingredients, can indulge in a signature coconut Kurumba in lovers the expansive open-sea aquarium allows them to For coffee seafood the fresh morning air and watch the sun sparkle off lobster. While for true foodies, the offerings also include choose their the sea. Australian Wagyu Beef and exclusive Mottainai Carrot and Olive Fed Dinner at Thila is a feast for the senses, dining Lamb. Its by no wonder this fine-dining restaurant has been awarded the sea, under the stars, by candlelight with a menu of Excellence by Trip Advisor users every year since its a Certificate brimming with the freshest ingredients, prepared opening. with flair by the chefs in the open kitchen. For seafood Speciality restaurants on the island offer a range of fine dining lovers the expansive open-sea aquarium allows optionsthem to suit every palate; savour sushi and Teppanyaki at the to choose their lobster. While for true foodies, the Hamakaze or dine on Middle-Eastern delicacies within over-water offerings also include Australian Wagyu Beef and the opulent Arabic décor of Al Qasr. If Thai is your preferred cuisine, exclusive Mottainai Carrot and Olive Fed Lamb. It’s no make sure you visit Khing Thai to ample the beautifully spiced, wonder this fine-dining restaurant has been awarded aromatic dishes om offer. a Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor users Thoseevery seeking an extra pinch of Maldivian romance can induge in a year since its opening. private dining experience for two, on an idyllic, secluded beach, out Those seeking an extra pinch of Maldivian on a yacht or, for the ultimate in romance and privacy, on their very romance can indulge in a private dining experience own desert island. for two, The Sounds of the Sea is a favouriteThe treat for of the Sea is a favourite treat for guests on a Sounds guests on a voyage of culinary discovery. Sumptuous gastronomic voyage of discovery. Sumptuous courses arrive matched courses arrive matched with the finest wines the withat the finest wines at the table, set for two, by the water’s edge, table, set for two, by the water’s edge, under a starlit under a starlit sky. sky watching the spectacular Maldivian sunset. For that sunset cocktail, or an after-dinner (or afternoon) drink the Sip savour delicious sunset cocktails, resort after- also features three bars; Athiri, set on the beach for the best dinner drinks, and fine vintages across Kurumba’s sunsets, Kandhu, where guests can unwind in the company of live bars; beachfront Athiri, open-air Kandu where bands,guests local dance and fabulous cocktails, or Fez for a wide range of can unwind in the company of live bands,flavoured local dance shisha and colourful cocktails. and fabulous cocktails, or Fez for a wide range of those wishing to make the most of their private garden, Finally, flavoured shisha and colourful cocktails and delicious balcony or hired yacht can request an intimate dining experience mezzes. for two.

Those seeking an extra pinch of Maldivian romance can induge in a private dining experience for two, on an idyllic, secluded beach

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KURUMBA Voted 'Best Luxury Wellness Spa [Asia]' in the World Luxury Spa Awards, Kurumba's Veli Spa is surrounded by soothing ponds creating an oasis of serenity in the heart of the island. Here, guests can enjoy a dedicated yoga session, unwinding in the relaxation lounge, de-stress in the single or couples treatment rooms or indulgeVeli in reflexology and of exotic body Kurumba’s award-winning Spa is an oasis serenity wraps and polishes. For a more romantic experience “The in the heart of the island. Here, guests can enjoy a dedicated Underunwinding the Stars” in offers couples a chance watch the yogaSpa session, the relaxation lounge,todesunsetinwhilst enjoying a unique cowrie shell massage using stressing the single or couples treatment rooms or local hand-pressed oil.body wraps and polishes. indulging in reflexologyCoconut and exotic the Kurumba Resort“The isn’t just for thethe sunStars” and spaFor a Life moreatromantic experience Spa Under seekers – the sporting and adventurous amongst us have offers couples a chance to watch the sunset whilst enjoying a whole smorgasbord of activities to entertain. The Sports a unique cowrie shell massage using local hand-pressed Centre coconut oil.offers a fully-equipped gym, pool, and three floodlit tennis courts and if water are for your passion the Dive Life at the Kurumba Resortsports isn’t just the sun and School offers full range of adventurous PADI diving courses. spa-seekers – theasporting and amongst Explore us have the spectacular dive of The dazzling a whole smorgasbord of sites activities to Maldives entertain.asThe Sportsshoals of iridescent tropical fish, (friendly!) manta ray Centre offers a fully-equipped gym, pool, reef and sharks, three floodlit and turtles wait to greet you. tennis courts and if water sports are your passion the Dive you’ve theoffishy your hand at the SchoolOnce offers a fullmet range PADIlocals, divingtry courses. Explore Kayaking, water-skiing, and parasailing at spectacular dive sites of the windsurfing Maldives as dazzling shoals of the spectacular Water Sports Centre and keep theray littl’uns iridescent tropical fish, (friendly!) reef sharks, manta and entertained withyou. the Fun Tubes and Banana Rodeos. turtles wait to greet This isyou’ve all in addition to a wide-range of fascinating local Once met the fishy locals, try your hand at Kayakincluding a Sand Bank Picnic, the ing, excursions water-skiing, windsurfing and parasailing at ever the popular sunset cruises even night-fishing the stars. spectacular Water and Sports Centre and keepunder the littl’uns Kurumba, Maldives, blends luxury and tranquillity in an entertained with the Fun Tubes and Banana Rodeos. This is which tempts many tolocal return to the all inincomparable addition to a way, wide-range of fascinating excursions paradise island time and time again. Havingsunset pioneered including a Sand Bank Picnic, the ever-popular cruistourism in the Maldives, as the private island resort, es and even night-fishing under thefirst stars. Kurumba has remained one of the is finest; visitors can while Majaa, meaning ‘fun’ in Maldivian, Kurumba’s Kids away daysinon the pearl-dust beaches, swim in protected Club; located the recreation hub of the island thethe kids club crystal clear lagoons, the vibrant boasts a spacious pavilionexplore with indoor gamesunderwater and a vast house reef encircling theActivities island, and indulge in a widehandcrafts, variety of outdoor splash area. include traditional exceptional culinary experiences. beachfront games, educational explorations and coconut With the idyllic backdrop of the between Maldives,ages Coconut arts and crafts. Available for children 4 and 13. palm crystal clear water and year Teens canfringed explorewhite Majaabeaches, Recreation from tennis, sailing and summer temperatures, makes forstation. a surfround lessons, tube lessons and evenKurumba an indoor gaming picture perfect setting or a wedding and an unforgettable experience not only for the bride and groom, but for their guests as well.

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Two guests or 20? Barefoot or formal? Day or night? Kurumba understands that the devil is in the detail and that is why an assigned wedding organiser will help plan all the arrangements, making the process worry and stress free from beginning to end. Whether it is a declaration of love in front of family and friends as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean or a private ceremony for two in the overwater gazebo, couples can craft their own dream wedding, reaffirm their love, or get engaged in a romantic setting. Deciding to say ‘I do’ at Kurumba Maldives is an easy choice. For the ultimate romantic gesture, the 300 sqm Presidential Pool Villa provides privacy and intimacy craved by newlyweds. With a private pool and ample living space, couples can hideaway for their entire honeymoon. For those who choose to venture outside, temptations include private island excursions, dinners on the beach and couple’s spa treatments. Kurumba offers three different vow renewal packages with each including as standard, a master of ceremony, venue hire, decorations, wedding certificates and digital photos. Premium packages, in addition to the standard inclusions, come with a welcome tropical fruit basket and bottle of wine upon arrival, a Maldivian Bodu Beru traditional dance performance, the bridal bouquet, wedding cake, canapés at sunset, two bottles of sparkling wine, Kurumba's Signature Sounds Of The Sea Dinner with wine, a commemorative renewal of vows carved wood plaque, bride and groom local sarongs (Feyli), a 90-minute spa treatment for the couple and a premium breakfast for the couple at Thila. It’s worth noting that vow ceremonies in the Maldives are symbolic and not legally binding. This however does not deter the many couples that choose the idyllic backdrop as the location for their special celebration, with the legal formalities being conducted before they venture out to the paradise island. www.kurumba.com

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For couples, romance is at the heart of Kurumba. Whether an idyllic getaway, honeymoon or even a renewal of vows, Kurumba makes for a picture-perfect setting or an unforgettable celebration of love. Two guests or 20? Barefoot or formal? Day or night? Kurumba understands that the devil is in the detail and that is why an assigned event organiser will help plan the event of your dreams. Whether it is a declaration of love in front of family and friends as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean or a private ceremony for two in the overwater gazebo, couples can craft their own dream wedding, reaffirm their love, or get engaged in a romantic setting. Deciding to say ‘I do’ at Kurumba Maldives is an easy choice. However one decides to spend their time at Kurumba, this five-star retreat offers guests an unforgettable Maldivian adventure.

www.kurumba.com

Formerly a coconut plantation, Baros Maldives was the third resort to open to the public in 1973, helping to put the destination on the map, and remains one of the very best today. It has spent decades honing its services and cultivating its environment, making it a legendary resort that celebrates its 50th year anniversary in 2023 – an impressive milestone for a Maldivian resort. Sitting in harmony amongst the the natural beauty of their surroundings, the collection of handcrafted beachfront and overwater villas at Baros are built from timber and sandstone and designed to cocoon you in comfort, furnished with care and with a host of indulgent features for you to enjoy. To help preserve the island, the team at Baros work hard to protect the natural environment, from the house reef fringing the island to its natural jungle heart. In order to ensure the privacy of their guests, the island also strictly prohibits the use of Drones on the island. Baros Maldives is situated in the central southern part of North Male’ Atoll, just 25 minutes by speedboat from Maldives International Airport. Beginning with the coral-walled, fan-cooled cabanas of the original resort, Baros has become an icon of luxury in the Maldives. Throughout every chapter of the island’s story, Baros strive to offer the highest standard of Maldivian hospitality. From the heartfelt service to the ingredients in the dishes, to the artwork on the walls, to the pillows on each bed – these details, perfected, are what makes Baros so very unique.

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Enjoy the freedom of space as well as the inspiration of tropical tranquillity and a chance to relax in solitude.

Whether you stay over the water or on our jungle-covered shoreline, your accommodation promises to be surrounded by the greens and blues that characterise the island, with all of Baros within close reach. There are 45 Beachside and 30 Water Private Villas to choose from, many with private pools and each complete with a Villa Host to cater to guests every possible requirement. Rise early to greet the day and experience the early-morning hours in their perfect stillness. Stay up late and watch the stars from your deck. Spend your days exploring the flourishing house reef, a quick paddle away. Privacy, serenity and comfort; each of the villas at Baros Maldives is a world of its own, with everything you could possibly need. The exclusive Baros Suites can be discovered on the eastern shore of the island, via a winding pathway through the lush foliage and feature wooden floors and high Whether you over the Maldivian water or on our jungleceilings instay a traditional concept. covered shoreline, your accommodation At the foot of the king-size bed is anpromises ottoman to beconcealing surroundeda television by the greens andwhile blueson that screen characterise the island, with all of Baros within one side there is a work desk and on the close reach.other, There are 45 Beachside 30 Water Private a cosy reading nook.and In the adjoining Villaslounge, to choose from, with private and there is amany 55” television withpools access each to complete with a Villa Host to cater to guests movies and Internet and a sublimely cosy everysofa possible requirement. Rise early to greet the for relaxation. Sliding glass doors open day and experience the early-morning hours in on to an expansive wooden deck ideal for their sunbathing perfect stillness. Stay up late under and watch the or private dining the stars starsbeside from your deck. Spend your days exploring 19ft x 10ft swimming pool (which the flourishing house quick paddle away. Privacy, has a hot andreef, coldaJacuzzi) adorned with serenity and comfort; each of the villas at Baros fibre optic lights for a magical ambience in Maldives is a world of its own, with everything you the evening. could possibly need. Designed to provide a haven of secluThesion, exclusive BarosSuites Suitesare can be discovered the Baros specially created on the eastern shore of the island, viaand a winding to maintain the utmost privacy pathway throughwith the lush foliage andfor feature tranquillity classic design, guests wooden floors and high ceilings in a traditional to enjoy the freedom of space as well as the Maldivian concept. At the foot of the king-size inspiration of tropical tranquillity and a bed is an chance ottoman concealing a television screen while to relax in solitude. on one side thereaisWater a work desk and ondiscover the other, a Choose Pool Villa and cosy an reading theturquoise adjoiningoflounge, there is oasis nook. whereInthe your plunge a 55”pool television with access to movies and Internet blends with the blues of our lagoon. and a sublimely cosy sofa for relaxation. Sliding glass doors open on to an expansive wooden deck ideal for sunbathing or private dining under the stars beside 19ft x 10ft swimming pool (which has a hot and cold Jacuzzi) adorned with fibre optic lights for a magical ambience in the evening. Designed to provide a haven of seclusion, the Baros Suites are specially created to maintain the utmost privacy and tranquillity with classic design, for guests to enjoy the freedom of space as well as the inspiration of tropical tranquillity and a chance to relax in solitude.

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BAROS Behind the daybed on your sun-soaked veranda, a stairway descends to crystal-clear Choose a Water Poolreef Villaready and discover an oasis waters, the house and waiting for where theexploration. turquoise of your pool comfort blends with You willplunge find every in the blues of your our lagoon. daybed on your sun-soaked privateBehind cocoonthe over the water – rich veranda, a stairway descends to crystal-clear waters, teak floors, comfortable furniture and theluxurious house reef ready and waiting for exploration. bedding, a library of books and in- You will findgames, every and comfort inmodern your private cocoon over door every convenience. theYour water – richoverwater teak floors,haven comfortable furniture and tropical gives you the luxurious bedding, a library of books and indoor games, perfect balance of privacy and access. and every modern convenience. Your tropical Enjoy your own secluded beach garden overwater haven gives you thebeneath perfect balance privacy and shaded pool tropical of trees with and access. Baros Pool Villas which provide a peaceful Enjoy ownsteps secluded garden and shaded reposeyour within of thebeach lagoon. On your pool beneath tropical trees with Baros Pool Villas which deck you've got a canopied daybed and sun provide a peaceful repose steps of theinlagoon. loungers, where days canwithin be spent bathed Onocean your views. deck you've a canopied daybed and sun Whitegot sands, turquoise waters loungers, where days can be spent bathed in and the wonders of the house reef are just ocean views. White sands, turquoise waters and the wonders metres away. Inside, spaces that envelope of with the house reef charm are just–metres away. Inside, effortless a comfortable bed, spaces that envelope effortless charm – a comfortable rich woodenwith furnishings and bespoke Baros bed, rich wooden furnishings and bespoke Baros amenities. amenities. Relax upon the shimmering waters of Relax upon in thea shimmering of theown lagoon in the lagoon Baros Waterwaters Villa - your a Baros Water Villaand - your owntimber personal retreat personal retreat warm cocoon of and warm timber cocoon of tranquillity. The lagoon tranquillity. The lagoon lies just beyond your lies just beyond daybed, your canopied canopied waitingdaybed, for you waiting to jumpfor you to in jump and explore, wide timber andin explore, while awhile wideatimber deck deck lets you drink endless ocean ocean views.views. In the In evenings, lets you in drink in endless the relax amid spectacular sunsets, and watch evenings, relax amid spectacular sunsets,as the sky transforms a light of constellations. and watchinto as the skyshow transforms into a light Inside, enjoy a private world of elegantly cosy afurnishings and show of constellations. Inside, enjoy priplush with thoughtful touches ofand indulgence vateamenities, world of elegantly cosy furnishings everywhere you look. plush amenities, with thoughtful touches of Gastromony upon the island is as exquisite as the indulgence everywhere you look. scenery itself and the options available Gastromony upon the island is asto guests are plentiful. aboard a dhoni a dinner exquisiteStep as the scenery itselffor and the op-cruise for two or head to the Piano Deck with your own private tions available to guests are plentiful. Step chef, for an exclusive gourmet meal. Or how aboard a dhoni for a dinner cruise for two about settling in to at the ThePiano Lighthouse to watch or head Deck with your the ownsunset with cocktails At thesegourmet gourmetmeal. Restaurants in private and chef,canapés? for an exclusive Baros, every meal is yours to savour, every bite designed Or how about settling in at The Lighthouse to to inspire. The team have been creating culinary magic watch the sunset with cocktails and forcanapés? more than years, takingRestaurants the time to in perfect classic At 40 these gourmet dishes, withtonew techniques Baros,while everyinnovating meal is yours savour, every and ingredients from around the world. From bite designed to inspire. The team have lavish been buffet breakfasts by the pool to fine dining at the legendary Lighthouse, every meal is another opportunity for you to relish a favourite or try something more daring. Intimate and magical, The Lighthouse Restaurant rises over the lagoon, its towering white sail a beacon on the seas. Reserve your table under the stars for an unforgettable dining experience, perched over the water, with views that reach to the twinkling horizon. Enjoy the most succulent local seafood, tender steaks and modern classics infused with exotic flavour. For the ultimate in fine dining, have the resident sommelier recommend the perfect wines for your meal.

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creating culinary magic for more than 40 years, taking the time to perfect classic dishes, while innovating with new techniques and ingredients from around the world. From lavish buffet breakfasts by the pool Intimate thelegendary lagoon, the aroma of spice drifting to finedining diningover at the Lighthouse, through themeal nightis–another Cayenne Grill offersfor al fresco every opportunity you à la carte dining with a hint of Indian flavour. Order from to relish a favourite or try something more a selection of the finest cuts and freshest seafood, grilled to your preferdaring. ences. Perfectly marbled wagyuThe beefLighthouse and young New Zealand Intimate and magical, lambRestaurant accompanyrises a succulent of fresh lobster, over theselection lagoon, its prawns, crab and fish. Grill towering white sailCayenne a beacon on celebrates the seas. the grilling traditions of the world, byfor premium wines from Reserve your table accompanied under the stars an across the globe. dining experience, perched unforgettable Another daywater, beginswith under the that brilliant over the views reachBaros to thesky, as Lime Restaurant starts you offEnjoy deliciously with an indulgent buffet twinkling horizon. the most succulent breakfast. Chilled Champagne, succulent seafood, Maldivian local seafood, tender steaks and modern curries, Asianinfused plates and begin classics withclassic exotic cooked flavour. breakfasts For the your ultimate day as decadently or ashave wholesomely as you please. Sit in fine dining, the resident insidesommelier in Lime’s recommend cool interiorthe or take your placefor outside on the perfect wines deck your for views meal.across the lagoon. For lunch, try a hearty highlight like Intimate the massaman diningtuna, over or thechoose lagoon,from the curries, snacks, salads, pizzas for something aroma of and spicesandwiches drifting through the nightin-between. In the evening enjoy international andàMaldivian – Cayenne Grill offers al fresco la carte cuisine served against the backdrop enchanting dining with a hintofofanIndian flavour.Baros sunset. Order from a selection of Sails the finest cuts and or snacks Amble along a sandy trail to Bar for drinks grilledplace. to your preferences. in anfreshest intimateseafood, and peaceful Sway in a hammock as Perfectly marbled wagyu andoryoung the lagoon sparkles beyond thebeef trees, relax in a lounger New Zealand lambinto accompany a succulent as smooth music melts the starlit sky. A gentle evening selection fresh lobster, prawns,Acrab and grains of sand breeze rustles of palm fronds overhead. million fish.underfoot. Cayenne Grill the grilling feel soft Yourcelebrates steward brings you an ice-cold cocktraditions the to world, accompanied tail, the perfect of toast another entrancingbyday at Baros. wines from across the globe. It ispremium hard for guests to pull themselves away from the Another day begins theof brilliant spectacular surroundings andunder privacy their private villa, Baros sky,atasmealtimes, Lime Restaurant starts however even they are ableyou to choose not see off deliciously with an indulgent buffet another person. Thanks to Destination Dining at Baros, guests breakfast. succulenton the island. can enjoy a fineChilled dining Champagne, experience anywhere seafood, curries, Asian plates andvilla terrace, Nowhere is offMaldivian limits, from the comfort of their classic cooked breakfasts begin your day on the beach, to a romantic cruise at sunset onasthe resorts decadently or as wholesomely as you please. traditional wooden dhoni, ‘Nooma’ or secluded sandbank for Sit inside inor Lime’s cool interior or take youravailable on breakfast, lunch dinner. Private dining is also place Deck’, outside on the deck for views across like a grand the ‘Piano a unique wooden deck shaped the lagoon. For lunch, try a hearty highlight piano, floating off the coast of Baros. likefind theyourself massaman tuna, for or choose fromyou can be sure If you looking adventure, curries, snacks, salads, pizzas sandwichto find the perfect experience uponand Baros Island. The lagoon es for something in-between. In the evening beckons you to jump in, to swim with turtles and glide over enjoy international and Maldivian cuisinethe seas, to see corals. A sailing adventure tempts you across the backdrop an whatserved you canagainst see beyond our atoll.ofChampagne fizzes in your sunset.unforgettable moment. A million glassenchanting as you toastBaros to another Amble along sandydaytime trail to Sails Bar foron land and experiences await you,a from excursions drinks or snacks in an intimate and peaceful sea to intimate ceremonies and bespoke destination dining, Baros inspires blissful memories that will linger long after you have left the shores of Baros.

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If you find yourself looking for adventure, you can be sure to find the perfect experience upon Baros Island. The lagoon beckons you to jump in, to swim with turtles and glide over corals.

place. Sway in a hammock as the lagoon sparkles beyond the trees, or relax in a lounger as smooth music melts into the starlit sky. A gentle evening breeze rustles palm fronds overhead. A million grains of sand feel soft underfoot. Your steward brings you an ice-cold cocktail, the perfect toast to another entrancing day at Baros. It is hard for guests to pull themselves away from the spectacular surroundings and privacy of their private villa, however even at mealtimes, they are able to choose not see another person. Thanks to Destination Dining at Baros, guests can enjoy a fine dining experience anywhere on the island. Nowhere is off limits, from the comfort of their villa terrace, on the beach, to a romantic cruise at sunset on the resorts traditional wooden dhoni, ‘Nooma’ or secluded sandbank for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Private dining is also available on the ‘Piano Deck’, a unique wooden deck shaped When at Baros, you have a world like a you're grand piano, floating off the coast of of incredible marine Baros.life within a short swim of your villa. A shoal of If you find gracefully yourself looking for advenbarracuda glides on a tropical current. A turtle ture, you can be sure find the perfect rises languorously fromto the depths. Wade into the lagoon and experience upon Baros Island. The lagoon discover a world of bewitching beauty, with colourful fish and beckons you through to jump in, swimreef, withjust turtles turtles drifting thetohouse 20 metres from and Or glide over corals. A sailing shore. choose from the dozensadventure of world-class dive sites you across thefrom seas,Baros to see–what you lesstempts than an hour away a boon for divers and an can see beyond fizzes incredible bounty our this atoll. closeChampagne to Malé. in your asways you toast to another There areglass many you can exploreunthe Baros waters. Glide forgettable moment. A million experiences along the surface on a paddleboard or transparent canoe, awaitinto you,a from daytime excursions on land plunge neon-coloured world of corals during a night dive searesident to intimate ceremonies and bespoke or and let our Marine Biologist guide you on a personalised destination dining, Baros inspires blissful journey of underwater discovery. Baros has direct access to that best will linger after 30memories of the world’s divinglong spots, andyou there is nowhere more have left thecalming shores than of Baros. secluded and the spectacular underwater world When you're at Baros, haveinto a world of the Maldives. Transportingyou guests their own underwater of incredible marine lifebywithin a short swim world, Baros offer Diving Design programmers and a Diver of your villa. shoal ofmarvel barracuda glides Valet Service soAthey can at the likes of manta and eagle gracefully on asharks tropical current. A turtle rays, turtles and and adventure-seeking pairs can even rises languorously from the depths. Wade embark on fascinating ‘Fluro Night Dives’. theof lagoon and discover a world of in the trees – Ainto haven relaxation, a sanctuary hidden bewitching beauty,you with colourful and Serenity Spa invites into a worldfish of indulgent spa and turtles drifting thehere house justfor a few hours, or beauty rituals. Youthrough can come to reef, escape 20ametres from shore. Or choose fromwith the a series of daily craft personalised journey of wellness dozens of world-class dive sites less than an you restore treatments. Everything here is designed to help hour away and fromfind Baros – acalm, boonfrom for divers your balance your daily yoga sessions and an incredible bounty close tobeyond Malé. the ordinary, to therapeutic massage. For this something request a yoga session anywhere on the island, or enjoy a pampering treatment in the seclusion of your comfortable villa.

www.baros.com

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There are many ways you can explore the Baros waters. Glide along the surface on a paddleboard or transparent canoe, plunge into a neon-coloured world of corals during a night dive or let our resident Marine Biologist guide you on a personalised journey of underwater discovery. Baros has direct access to 30 of the world’s best diving spots, and there is nowhere more secluded and calming than the spectacular underwater world of the Maldives. Transporting guests into their own underwater world, Baros offer Diving by Design programmers and a Diver Valet Service so they can marvel at the likes of manta and eagle rays, turtles and sharks and adventure-seeking pairs can even embark on fascinating ‘Fluro Night Dives’. A haven of relaxation, a sanctuary hidden in the trees – Serenity Spa invites you into a world of indulgent spa and beauty rituals. You can come here to escape for a few hours, or craft a personalised journey of wellness with a series of daily treatments. Everything here is designed to help you restore your balance and find your calm, from daily yoga sessions to therapeutic massage. For something beyond the ordinary, request a yoga session anywhere on the island, or enjoy a pampering treatment in the seclusion of your comfortable villa.

www.baros.com

Dhigali is Pure Maldivian Bliss Dhigali Maldives, located in beautiful Raa Atoll is a pure island bliss reachable by a 45-minute scenic seaplane or 70 minutes domestic flight. With 180 villas on the beach and over water, there is a choice of villa to suit every budget. This luxury hideaway offers a Premium All-Inclusive experience from the moment you arrive to the moment you depart. Breakfast+lunch+dinner+selection of beverages from any of the operational outlet is all included in the premium all-inclusive offering. This includes all four Restaurants, Café’ + Pizzeria + 2 bars + the minibar. Experiences such as a dolphin cruise + glass bottom boat excursion + kayak + paddle board + snorkeling equipment is all included so that you can explore the all-around reef of Dhigali at no extra cost. Complimentary Kids Club for children aged 4 to 12 years with fun activities and experiences indoor + outdoor. The all-inclusive premium experience means every element of your holiday has been carefully crafted to ensure it is as fun + stress-free as possible.

www.dhigali.com

Milaidhoo Maldives A

Set over 13 acres atop the Baa Atoll’s beautiful UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Milaidhoo Maldives is the ultimate romantic Maldivian escape for stylish couples who are seeking true escapism in a utopian setting. A tiny tropical island, Milaidhoo is an emerald drop of paradise wrapped in soft white sands, surrounded by a vibrant coral reef and lapped by warm turquoise waters. Promising an experience that is unlike any other five star resort in the Maldives, at Milaidhoo, the team like to do things differently: they call it 'reinvented luxury’. They think of their guests not as holidaymakers but as storywriters, crafting their dream holiday. Having opened in November 2016, Milaidhoo is a boutique luxury resort close to Hanifaru Bay, 126km north west of Male. Ideal for nature lovers due to the exquisite coral reef, which encircles the island, it is a protected area and noted as an outstanding snorkelling and diving site in its own right. This tiny beautiful island, abundant with tropical greenery, measures just 300m by 180m and is fringed by soft deep white sand beaches. Everything at Milaidhoo has been custom made and made for comfort; crafted around the needs of the guest. Service is exceptional, always friendly, and in line with the resort’s ‘barefoot informality’ ethos. Above all, Milaidhoo are proud to offer a taste of the true Maldives, opening doors to Maldivian culture and unique experiences. When it comes to accomodation, you will be spoilt for choice, with each style offering its guest a place they may never have been before but where they instantly feel like they belong. Whether you choose a beach or water villa, each is spacious and filled with light. Outdoor living is what Milaidhoo do best: each villa opens up 180-degrees to allow the natural beauty of the Maldives inside. Indoors all around you are striking Maldivian elements, art pieces and contemporary custom-made furnishings thoughtfully designed for your comfort.

ilaidhoo Maldives is delighted to introduce a brand new uber luxe accommodation – the spectacular overwater Two-Bedroom Ocean Residence. Designed to accommodate up to six guests, the Two-Bedroom Ocean Residence is perfect for multigenerational family holidays and comprises two spacious bedrooms with en suite bathrooms featuring premium Acqua Di Parma toiletries, a large living room and an extensive, sunset-facing private deck with a swing chair, sun loungers and huge freshwater infinity pool with steps straight into the sea, allowing guests to explore Milaidhoo’s incredible house-reef. Lavish family feasts can be enjoyed in the dining area and there is even a ‘secret’ loft deck hidden inside the roof of the villa, which is the ideal place for guests to chill out with a glass of wine, taking in the views at the end of the over-water jetty. Due to its premium location at the very end of the lagoon jetty, the overwater Residence offers unparalleled views of the Indian Ocean and the master bedroom features a bathroom that opens up completely for a panoramic ocean view. Guests can exercise with a motivating view from their private gym and yoga/meditation lounge on the upper floor. The 564sqm, luxury residence provides the ultimate in exclusive seclusion and comfort. Guests of the Milaidhoo Residences receive a number of benefits during their stay, including a dedicated, 24-hour butler, champagne on arrival, a dedicated chef to personalize all meals according to preference, a pop-up cinema experience on the deck of their villa, one private, half-day boat excursion during their stay and lots more.

MILAIDHOO ISLAND Milaidhoo recently launched new, spectacular Ocean Residence and Beach Residences making them some of the most soughtafteraccommodation in the Maldives, perfect for getting that Instagram shot.

Water babies can opt for the breath taking 475sqm Ocean Residence – an incredibly spacious and elegantly but authentically designed, thatched-roof villa, on stilts with unparalleled views of the Indian Ocean. The outstanding bathroom invites nature in by opening out to the ocean, with steps straight into the water allowing guests to explore Milaidhoo’s incredible house-reef direct from their villa. There is even a ‘secret’ loft deck hidden inside the roof of the villa, which is the perfect place for guests to chill out with a glass of wine, taking in the views. The completely private sundeck comes complete with swing chair, sun loungers, huge freshwater and infinity swimming pool. Guests of the Milaidhoo Residences receive a number of benefits during their stay, including a dedicated, 24hour butler, Champagne on arrival, a dedicated chef to personalize all meals according to preference, a pop-up cinema experience on the deck of their villa, one private, half-day boat excursion during their stay and lots more. Those who prefer dry land can choose one of Milaidhoo’s two 490sqm Beach Residences, created to showcase luxurious, informal, outdoor island living. Guests staying in the Milaidhoo Residences receive a number of benefits during their stay, including a dedicated, 24-hour butler, Champagne on arrival, a dedicated chef to personalise all meals according to preference, a pop-up cinema experience on the deck of their villa, one private, half-day boat excursion during their stay and lots more. The team at Milaidhoo are serious about food, focusing on authentic, light food with clean flavours. three restaurants and two bars are designed to appeal to your senses, offering outstanding dining in wonderfully informal settings. No shoes required. Ever. Possibly one of the few fine-dining restaurants that encourage its diners to come barefoot, Ba’theli restaurant at Milaidhoo Island Maldives is the first modern Maldivian restaurant in the Maldives. Reflecting its heritage, Ba’theli’s architecture takes its name from the local word for a traditional wooden sailing boat and has been built in the shape of three boats that stand on stilts over the lagoon. One ‘boat’ is the restaurant, the second a bar-lounge and the third, the kitchen. Guests can dine under the stars on the restaurant’s deck or inside the boat where a glass floor reveals views of the marine life below, all inhabitance of the resorts spectacular house-reef. Ba’theli’s dishes are steeped in Maldivian tradition, with each dish inspired from the Maldivian Spice Route.

The story began over 5,000 years ago when The Maldives became a key port of call for traders sailing from Indonesia and India to Arabia with cargoes of cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric, cloves, ginger and pepper. The Maldivians bartered coconuts, sun-dried fish, cordage and sails woven from coconut fibre, and cowrie shells (which became currency) for spice, rice, ceramics and silks. Locally-made cargo boats, ‘ba’theli', sailed throughout the archipelago with these goods, spreading knowledge about different lands, their customs and cuisine. This story comes alive at Ba’theli restaurant at Milaidhoo, as their chefs serve gourmet dishes using local herbs and spices to enhance natural flavours. The menu features classic Maldivian dishes which include appetisers such as: Garudhiya (famous Maldivian soup featuring lightly poached skip jack tuna, perfumed with young curry and pandanus heart), Bova Satani (chilled braised octopus salad, cabbage, dressed with kaffir lime and coconut oil), and main courses including: Bakari Sanaamugu Hiki Riha (Maldivian five spiced lamb loin, bitter snake gourd and chickpea gravy, brinjal fritters) and Filolhu Ihi Riha (grilled white snapper fillets, with Maldivian lobster , tomato essence, coconut espuma). Of course an array of mouthwatering dishes and curries inspired by the different atolls are also on offer including Maldivian lobster curry, northern archipelago slow braised beef curry and southern Maldivian chicken curry. Facing the west, Ba’theli commands idyllic sunset views and is reached on foot by an overwater wooden jetty. If you want to experience heavenly informal dining, then be sure to visit The Shoreline Grill, a beachfront grill where you’ll find superb meats and freshly caught local fish and seafood, simply cooked and beautifully presented. You can dine barefoot on the sand in a private beachfront pavilion, or inside the grill for a fantastic view of the show kitchens. For the tropical breakfast you’ve always dreamed of, make your way to the Ocean Restaurant, sit on the deck by the ocean and let the team deliver wave after wave of treats to your table. For lunch and dinner the style remains casually comfortable with international dishes perfectly presented from a la carte menu. Here, the key words are fresh, flavourful and friendly.

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If there’s a place to chill out and fall in love with the Milaidhoo infinity pool, whilst overlooking the ocean, then the Compass Pool Bar is it. When hunger calls, the team are right there, waiting for you with a tempting drinks list of the freshest of fresh juices, infused waters, cocktails and light meals, such as gourmet pizzas from our wood-fired oven; bento boxes; fresh salads; sandwiches etc. The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down; find yourself a sun lounger and watch the area transform into a laid-back chill out lounge. Milaidhoo Island Maldives has also introduced a new, innovative concept: ‘mood dining’. The five different ‘moods’ guests can choose from are: ‘Deep Sleep’; ‘Getting into the Milaidhoo Mood’; ‘Sunrise Awakening’; ‘Curious Adventures’ and ‘Sunset Chill’. Each ‘mood’ consists of a specially curated food and drinks menu, served at a specific location on the island, all of which has been designed to alter a person’s mood. Some of these dining offerings are paired with spa treatments, special baths and meditation to enhance the experience. The theory behind the mood dining concept is that certain foods can affect body chemistry and therefore a person’s mood, for example creating a burst of energy, uplifting emotions or causing drowsiness and the desire to sleep. The location of the meal also helps shape the mood, with options of dining on deserted islands, sandbanks in the middle of the ocean, on a beach or simply on the private deck of the guest’s own villa. For guests looking to best enhance their sleep patterns, they can opt for the ‘Deep Sleep’ mood. It begins with a peaceful spa treatment in the early evening to physically relax the body. This is followed by a light dinner served in the guest’s villa with a menu designed to encourage sleep, using foods that contain naturally occurring substances that can bring on sleep. Following this, Milaidhoo’s resident yogi leads the guests in a private moonlight meditation session on the deck of their villa to calm and slow the mind. The evening ends with a scented candlelit bath, because the drop in body temperature after a bath triggers the body’s need to sleep. Famous for it’s pristine turquoise waters, captivating marine life and breathtaking coral reefs, Milhaidhoo Maldives offers world-class diving, water sports and fishing opportunities, as well as a whole array of excursions. The team pride themselves on offering guests ‘Milaidhoo Moments,’ where you’ll enjoy experiences that will make you feel a million miles from everyday life, enrich your life and excite your spirit of adventure. Don’t just go fishing: instead let the team arrange for you to join a Maldivian fisherman and learn how it’s done here. Don’t just go on an excursion; instead let a local take you by the hand and guide you through our culture and history. Don’t just do a cooking class; accept chef’s invitation to pick some local herbs with him and create a new dish together. Don’t just drink cocktails; join the sommelier or bar tender for a tasting class and see if you can concoct something good enough to make it onto the drinks menu.

Milaidhoo’s resident yogi leads the guests in a private moonlight meditation session on the deck of their villa to calm and slow the mind

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The castaway includes a sunset dolphin cruise with champagne and canapés as dolphins swim around them For guests seeking the ultimate seclusion, Milaidhoo takes once in a lifetime experiences to new heights with their new offering – ‘sandbank glamping under the stars’. Guests can opt spend the night as castaways under the stars on their very own private sandbank. Transformed with the luxury facilities of a Milaidhoo Villa, the sandbank comes with a canopied four-poster bed draped in muslin and a private yacht anchored nearby with all the amenities guests would expect to find back at the hotel. The castaway includes a sunset dolphin cruise with champagne and canapés as dolphins swim around them and the sun begins to set and after arriving at the secluded sandbank, cocktails are served followed by a fourcourse dinner. After dinner, as the crew sail away, guests are left to enjoy post dinner drinks by the fire before heading off to sleep under the stars surrounded by candles and lanterns that have been scattered across the sandbank. As the sun rises, guests can kickstart the day with the Milaidhoo Yogi who will take them through a sunrise yoga session before the butler arrives to serve a freshly prepared breakfast. When it comes to wellness, Milaidhoo offer you the opportunity to simply take time out and breathe. At the on site spa, blissful relaxation for your body and soul takes place in four over-water treatment suites which offer inspiring views of sky and ocean. Explore the holistic treatment menu which incorporates the powers of botanicals combined with entrancing healing traditions from Africa, using local herbs and plants. There you’ll feel the benefits of the organic and natural spa therapies offered by Elemis, TheraNaka and Coola. The over-water yoga pavilion hosts complimentary daily yoga or meditation sessions where all you have to focus on is your mind, body and soul. Thanks to the resort’s idyllic location and scenery, Milaidhoo Maldives is the most breath-taking setting for a wedding. Making for a truly spectacular day, Milaidhoo offers couples multiple options for a romantic ceremony. The ‘Love Floats Boat Wedding’, involves couples taking to the ocean and exchanging vows on board a beautiful traditional sailing dhoni, while the ‘Starlight, Starbright Candlelit Wedding’ sees couples declaring their love in a candlelit sunset ceremony on their own private sandbank. Or, for the ultimate party, Milaidhoo’s most extravagant wedding package, ‘The Milaidhoo Extravaganza’ offers the entire island exclusively for the couple and their guests. The hotel work with the couples’ wedding planner to create the wedding week of dreams for those who are after nothing less than the best. After the wedding, the newlyweds can begin their honeymoon at one of the Milaidhoo residences. www.milaidhoo.com

Dhigali

MALDIVES

Dhigali

Promising unforgettable moments, exquisite romance and true Maldivian beauty, Dhigali matches contemporary luxury with the pure natural beauty of the Maldives. Take a 45-minute seaplane journey from Malé Airport, and you arrive on the Raa Atoll, where Dhigali brings modern minimalist design to this wonderfully remote part of the Maldives. Domestic flights from Ifuru/Dharavandhoo Airport are also available and including transfer by speedboat, take just 70 minutes. Surrounded by a pristine coral reef and crystal-clear lagoon, this 5-star Premium All Inclusive sanctuary invites guests to cast away in unspoiled luxury and rich Maldivian culture. Be it amongst the island’s lush gardens or upon the shimmering ocean, the resort’s 8 elegantly designed villas are all spacious hideaways featuring contemporary décor and natural textures. The island itself is corralled by 20 Beach Bungalows and 33 Deluxe Beach Bungalows to the south, and 62 Beach Villas, which line the north and southwestern beaches. Nestled under a canopy of palms, these beachfront sanctuaries provide luxurious intimacy, effortlessly marrying the interior and exterior. At 115 sqm the Beach Villa’s spacious room layout can sleep 2 adults and 2 children, making it the perfect choice for families. Outside, spend your days relaxing on the private deck’s daybed or opt for the Beach Villa with Pool which includes a private plunge pool overlooking the sparkling Indian Ocean. Embracing the island’s perimeter are Dhigali’s impressive overwater villas. Extending from the south-eastern side of the island is a jetty hosting 24 Water Villas, each one rising out of the lagoon on stilts. These villas offer unfettered views over the stunning Indian Ocean and Dhigali’s house reef, from floor-to-ceiling glass doors in the expansive bedroom, or via the over-water deck leading down to the crystal-clear waters below. Similarly, from the south-east of the island snakes a further jetty housing 16 larger Lagoon Villas with Pools.

Ultimate luxury can be found in Dhigali’s two Suite categories, 3 Beach Suites with a Pool and the exclusive Dhigali Suite, each representing unparalleled splendour

All have private expansive pools, and at 400 sqm the Dhigali Suite is the ultimate sanctuary, with its own courtyard, open-air bathroom, and sprawling infinity pool. All the resort’s accommodation comes equipped with an array of modern amenities as standard. The natural beauty of the island is the heart and soul of this unique resort experience. Guests can unwind on superb golden beaches, including Dhigali’s private sandbank, during the season extending up to 250m from the island or explore the island’s house reef, teeming with marine life like lionfish, eagle rays, turtles, and mantas. Elsewhere, Dhigali offers access to stunning underwater reefs and areas of outstanding beauty, where guests can discover seasonal groupings of manta rays, a variety of stunning corals, and huge schools of tropical marine life, as well as the opportunity to spot Whale Sharks, arguably one of nature’s most magical experiences.

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Dhigali’s innovative and authentic cuisine explores the spices of Asia, the classic tastes of Europe, and traditional Maldivian flavours in its 5 restaurants. Their Premium All-Inclusive offering is the ultimate way to experience everything this verdant paradise has to offer; once you set foot on the island, the toughest decision you’ll need to make is what order to take it all in. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner is included, and guests are invited to take their pick, whether it be fresh Asian dishes at Battuta, evocative smoked and grilled dishes at Faru, all-day dining at Jade, or a take-away pizza to enjoy on the beach. Whilst their two bars, Haali and East are the perfect settings to enjoy a cocktail! For effortless relaxation the Dhigali Spa is hidden amongst the island’s idyllic tropical gardens, a lush haven with 12 treatment rooms, it invites guests to unwind in outdoor plunge pool and treat themselves to indigenous therapies and healing traditions. Dhigali delivers a variety of excursions and extraordinary experiences. Adventure seekers can enjoy a host of water sports and experiences, whether it be snorkelling, non-motorised boat trips, Dolphin Cruise and group yoga sessions included with Premium All Inclusive, or something a little more daring like the wind surfing, sailing or wakeboarding. PADI courses are available for divers of all abilities, as well fishing, aquatic sports, and a fully equipped fitness centre. To keep the whole family entertained, ‘PLAY’ Dhigali’s expansive Children’s Club includes complimentary outdoor and indoor programmes for children aged 4-12.

Ringed by coral and kissed by the sun, Dhigali is a luxury hideaway with a difference.

www.dhigali.com"

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Waldorf Astoria Maldives Spanning across three interconnected islands in the south Male Atoll, the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is an iconic haven surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the crystal waters of the Indian Ocean and the breathtaking Maldivian paradise landscape. Since opening in 2019, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi has risen quickly to become the ultimate host for guests seeking a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience and holiday. Set amongst the stunning natural beauty of South Male Atoll’s coastline, the Waldorf Astoria Maldives has already clocked up numerous accolades; testament to their high quality and luxurious offering as well as their tantalising food offer. On the 4th July 2023, five members of the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi were the first Hilton team in South Asia to receive the prestigious Les Clefs d’Or award. This incredible achievement compliments the Waldorf’s countless other accolades; named 3rd Best Resort Hotel in the world in the 2022 Travel & Leisure Best’s awards, in addition to being awarded the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star award – the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants and spas. Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is a ‘seen to be believed,’ ‘once in a lifetime’ island escape with the most incredible natural experiences to discover and enjoy. The resort features 199 reefs, beaches, overwater villas and spans across three, equally beautiful and interconnected islands, which includes an independent private island filled with luxury amenities.

The well-being experiences at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi offer guests the most remarkable and invigorating treatments amongst the calming ambience of the spa; made up of four overwater villas and six tropical gardens. Each spa journey starts with a wellness concierge, a first for the Maldives, and this personalised approach offers a unique and personal consultation and delivers the most serene and crafted treatments based on the elements; earth, water, fire and metal. Known for its bespoke treatment menu, the wellness team at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi ignites an intense relaxation and emotional connection to the incredible environment. The spa offers rebalancing and healing whilst mystically immersive treatments so guests leave feeling rebalanced with a rejuvenated equilibrium in their mind, body and soul. Set atop the crystal waters, the Aqua Wellness Centre at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi stretches across an expansive 7,735sqf of the resort, boasting a custom builthydro-therapy pool, steam room, sauna and ice fountain. The outdoor pool is designed in zones; so each section of the pool is designed to target a specific area of the body; including air jets, jet baths, shower jets and a massage lounger area too, the pools use varying levels of intensity and temperatures to ease tension in the muscles, increase blood circulation, boost the immune system, improve deep sleep quality and improve metabolism.

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The resort is home to 11 exquisite dining experiences, in addition to a world-class, high-end and luxury spa and fitness centre, a children’s club, diving centre and water sports offering and extensive range of activities and experiences for all generations.

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Waldorf Astoria Maldives Wellness is a top priority at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi In addition to this aquatic haven, guests can also enjoy a specially designed healthy lunch in the gardens alongside a choice of massage or yoga/meditation session after their serene pool experience. Wellness is a top priority at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, evident in the fact that they’ve welcome a diverse range of wellness experts to the property to guide guests through their customised and holistic treatments during private sessions. These experts travel from across the world and each specialise in their own diverse offering, from martial arts to holistic medicine through to crystal healing and ayurvedic doctors, there’s no wonder guests feel the impact of the wellness bestowed upon them during their stay, for months to come. With wellness and relaxation at the heart of the incredible experiences on offer at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, it’s no wonder their culinary offer is just as luxurious and committed to offering guests a complete treat for the pallet in addition to the commitment to the wellbeing of the mind body and soul that is commonplace throughout the resort. The resort is home to 11 speciality dining venues each serving the freshest produce in the most exquisite of settings and with a diversity in options that’s never been seen before in the Maldives. Terra is located at the highest point on the island and offers a dining-in-the-sky experience for guests in the most picturesque private dining nests crafted from bamboo. As diners take in the incredible views they are treated to the most incredible flavours curated from the finest ingredients on the island. The Ledge, created by culinary mastermind Dave Pynt, offers speciality BBQ techniques using a custom-built, four ton, dual cavity oven and elevation grills to serve unique flavours against the beautiful backdrops of the island. This is the perfect spot for poolside lunches and just ‘grabbing a bite’, with the signature lobster a guest favourite during the day and a delectable offering of succulent wood-fired meats and a glass of wine in the evenings. The Rock, aptly nestled between the boulders on the island, is a rustic wine cellar and dining experience offering exquisite food and wine pairings paying homage to renowned wine regions around the world. Named after jasmine flowers, Yasmeen represents the unity of an Arabic Village, the traditional aesthetic matches the Authentic Middle Eastern cuisine on offer, surrounded by decorative artefacts and ornaments creating an irresistible and memorable blend of sensorial experiences.

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If authentic contemporary Chinese fine-dining experiences are more to guests’ tastes, they need to look no further than Li Long as they immerse themselves in the Shanghainese era; perched overwater, guests will marvel at the bespoke 2 metre high bell with it’s intricate oriental design as they take in the breath-taking ocean views and await their authentic and tantalising cuisine. Glow, situated in a greenhouse structure shaded by greenery, Glow is renowned for its fresh ingredients harvested from the edible garden surrounding the restaurant itself. The garden features over 20 herbs and fruit plants, and is the first thing guests see/smell when they arrive, creating the most immersive sensory ambience upon arrival. A champagne bar with unrivalled views of the sunsets, Amber is an idyllic setting to enjoy a glass of chilled champagne, modern cocktails and gourmet canapes. Nava is a beach club on the island that spans the Mirror Pool, sandy white beaches and Lagoon pool, offering refreshing cocktails, light bites and pizzas to enjoy by the pool or along the beach. Zuma Maldives is inspired by its location and complements its surroundings as it uses natural materials and local design techniques and combines elements of timber, light and granite that creates an immersive optical illusion that lead guests into a vibrant dining space boasting a majestic island bar, a Japanese charcoal grill and sushi counter. Peacock Alley is a serene lounge overlooking the water with live entertainment, serving a wide selection of handcrafted cocktails, wines, tapas and cigars, which makes it the ideal meeting place for a pre-or post-dinner aperitif. As part of the Waldorf Astoria legacy, the speciality at Peacock Alley is the tantalising afternoon tea. At Tasting Table guests can enjoy a gourmet breakfast while enjoying the sunrise, but when day turns to night, these views transform to sunset and the offering into a beachside dining venue offering international favourites for all. Testament to the mouth-watering culinary delights on offer all year-round at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, they showcased their commitment to high-quality cuisine and fine dining as they recently hosted world-renowned chef, Gregoire Berger of Michelin star restaurant Ossiano in Dubai, for an exclusive culinary residency for a fortnight in July 2023, where guests enjoyed an unforgettable series of signature dinners. The Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is situated in one of the most-beautiful locations in the world and like it’s sister resorts, offers guests unforgettable, life-changing and unparalleled bespoke experiences, the finest dining experiences and demonstrates commitment to health and wellness in holistic and therapeutic ways you’d never expect

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from a holiday. The surroundings are luxurious, sleek and spectacular and the experiences on offer at the resort are food for the soul; with endless outdoor adventure opportunities, fascinating underwater offerings in addition to the life-changing wellness facilities, guests here are spoiilt for choice . The relentlessness the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi commit to personal service and experiences, it’s no wonder they’ve won countless travel and tourism awards since their opening in 2019. Providing the comfort of a private home, combined with incredible amenities and legendary service, exceptional hospitality offering, the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi leaves guests transformed, inspired and with unforgettable memories from a once-in-a-lifetime stay at this world class resort in the most picturesque location.

Reservations +960-400-0300 +960-979-9000 +960-664-2222 Address Ithaafushi Island, South Male Atoll, Republic of Maldives Email MLEON.hotel@waldorfastoria.com www.waldorfastoriamaldives.com

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MALDIVES

Manafaru

THILADHUNMATHEE UTHURUBURI (Haa Alifu Atoll)

THILADHUNMATHEE DHEKUNUBURI

Kudamuraidhoo

(Haa Dhaalu Atoll)

MILADHUNMADULU UTHURUBURI (Shaviyani Atoll)

Vagaru MAALHOSMADULU UTHURUBURI

MILADHUNMADULU DHEKUNUBURI (Noonu Atoll)

Kudafunafaru

(Raa Atoll)

Lundhufushi FAADHIPPOLHU (Lhaviyani Atoll)

MAALHOSMADULU DHEKUNUBURI (Baa Atoll)

MALE ATHOLHU (Kaafu Atoll)

ARI ATHOLHU UTHURUBURI

AIRPORT MALÉ

(North Ari Atoll)

ARI ATHOLHU

(South Ari Atoll)

FELIDHU ATHOLHU (Vaavu Atoll)

112

NILANDHE ATHOLHU UTHURUBURI (Faafu Atoll)

MULAKATHOLHU

ARI ATHOLHU

(South Ari Atoll)

FELIDHU ATHOLHU (Vaavu Atoll)

NILANDHE ATHOLHU UTHURUBURI (Faafu Atoll)

MULAKATHOLHU (Meemu Atoll)

NILANDHE ATHOLHU DHEKUNUBURI (Thaa Atoll)

KOLHUMADULU ATOLL

Maléfushi

(Thaa Atoll)

HADHDHUMMATHI ATOLL (Laamu Atoll)

HUVADHU ATHOLHU UTHURUBURI (Gaafu Alifu Atoll)

Meradhoo

HUVADHU ATHOLHU DHEKUNUBURI (Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll)

Munandhoo

Gazeeraa Vatavarrehaa

FOAHMULAH (Gnaviyani Atoll) ADDU ATHOLHU (Seenu Atoll)

113

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