TTM Periodical | Issue 004 | November 2019

November 2019

www.traveltrademaldives.com ttm@traveltrademaldives.com

ISSUE 004 International Travel Trade Periodical of Maldives

MOHAMED IUJAZ

FRONT OFFICE MANAGER AT HILTON SEYCHELLES LABRIZ RESORT & SPA

RIZAN AFEEF

DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES AT ROSEWOOD LITTLE DIX IN THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

RIAAN SINCLAIR DREVER GENERAL MANAGER OF CENTARA GRAND ISLAND RESORT & SPA MALDIVES

IN THIS ISSUE : Roadshows & Fairs | Government | Market Overview | People | Aviation | Travel Tech | Awards/Listings Festivities | Accommodation | Celebrity News | Fairs | Wellness | Trainings | Travel Agents | TTM Highlights

02 FOREWORD & TEAM

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

OUR TEAM MANAGING DIRECTOR

Akhmeem Abdul Razzaq

Welcome to the issue November 2019

that the airport will be ready to cater to

we at Orca Media Group will try everything

of “TTM Periodical”. TTM Periodical is

over 7 million passengers annually by 2023.

to ensure TTM 2020 will be better and

a travel trade publication published by

Since being launched in 2017, TTM 2020 is

more rewarding for the participants in

Travel Trade Maldives (TTM) - Maldives

the 4th edition of the show that effectively

every aspect. All this would not have been

leading international travel trade show.

connects the travel trade community of the

possible without the incredible support of

Estimated figures for 2023 indicate that

Maldives to the global network of travel

our partners and industry stakeholders.

Maldives will achieve well over 50,000 in

professionals. This year, the multi-event

Here’s wishing all the best and a successful

beds in operation and government target

travel trade show will include the TTM

event for all participants of TTM 2020.

of 2.5 million tourist arrivals annually. The

Travel Summit, and TTM prescheduled

ongoing airport development projects at

meetings,

Velana International Airport will ensure

successful as previous editions of TTM were,

TTM

Awards

&

Gala.

As

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Dr. Hussain Sunny Umar

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Nashaath

DIRECTOR

Ibrahim Areef

DIRECTOR

Mohamed Khoorsheed

MANAGER

Ahmed Nasir

ASSISTANT MANAGER Fathmath Maisaan

PHOTOGRAPHY DYNAMYST Moonis Nazeem Noushad

DESIGN DIRECTION CREATIVE TUNA Zaya Ahmed Moothi Hamdhoon W. Asthu Shahindha Razan Zuhura Ismail

MARKETING

Ali Sageef Ibrahim Aminath Yusra Ibrahim Copyright c 2019 Orca Media Group.All rights reserved throughout the world. Reproduction in any manner is prohibited. Opinions expressed in the articles are of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the editor or publishers. While the editors do their utmost to verify information published they do not accept responsibility for its absolute accuracy. Materials in this publication may not be reproduced, whether in part or in whole, without the consent of Orca Media Group.

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ROADSHOWS & FAIRS 03

MMPRC ROADSHOW & FAIR LIST 2019

APR

JAN 19 JAN 27JAN

BOOT

05 APR 07 APR

Düsseldorf, Germany

MARINE DIVING FAIR

AUG 02 AUG 04 AUG

14 OCT 15 OCT

ITALY ROADSHOW Rome & Milan

NATAS Singapore

Tokoyo, Japan

16 OCT 18 OCT

ITB ASIA Singapore

23 JAN 25 JAN

ONE WORLD TRAVEL MARKET (OTM)

08 APR 09 APR

SOUTH AFRICA, ROADSHOW

08 AUG 09 AUG

Cape Town & Johannesburg

SOUTH KOREA, ROADSHOW Seoul, Busan 16 OCT 18 OCT

Mumbai, India

23 JAN 27 JAN

FITUR INTERNATIONAL TOURISM TRADE FAIR

10 APR 12 APR

WTM AFRICA

19 AUG 21 AUG

SWITZERLAND, ROADSHOW

Madrid, Spain

31 JAN 03 FEB

FESPO Zürich, Switzerland

31 JAN 03 FEB

EAST MEDITERRANEAN INTERNATIONAL TOURISM & TRAVEL EXHIBITION (EMITT)

SEP

CHINA OUTBOUND TRAVEL & TOURISM MARKET (COTMM) Beijing, China

06 SEP 08 SEP

28 APR 01 MAY

ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET (ATM) Dubai, UAE

30 APR & 02 MAY

16 SEP 19 SEP

24 JUN 28 JUN

12 MAR 14 MAR

MOSCOW INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL & TOURISM EXHBITON (MITT) Moscow, Russia

MATTA

NOV

JULY 05 JUL 07 JUL

VISIT MALDIVES TRAVEL EXPO 2019

GERMANY, ROADSHOW

04 NOV 06 NOV

AUSTRALIA ROADSHOW

OCT 01 OCT 04 OCT

WORLD TRAVEL MARKET (WTM) London, United Kingdom

7, 8 & 11 NOV

UK, ROADSHOW Dublin, Manchester & Glasgow

Perth, Melbourne & Sydney

INDIA, ROADSHOW Bangalore, Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, Chandigarh

ITB Berlin, Germany

23, 25 & 27 SEP

JAPAN, ROADSHOW Nagoya, Tokyo, Fukuoka, Osaka

Cologne, Frankfurt, Munich & Vienna

JUNE

BIT

MAR 06 MAR 10 MAR

MIDDLE EAST ROADSHOW Abu Dhabi & Dubai

FEB Milan, Italy

28 OCT 31 OCT

KL, Malaysia

Istanbul, Turkey

10 FEB 12 FEB

Osaka, Japan

Basel Zurich & Geneva

Cape Town, South Africa

15 APR 17 APR

TOURISM EXPO JAPAN (JATA)

12 NOV 15 NOV

NORDIC, ROADSHOW Copenhagen, Oslo, Stockholm, Helsinki

IFTM TOP RESA Paris, France 25, 27, 29 NOV & 2 DEC

07, 08 & 10 OCT

FRANCE, ROADSHOW

CHINA, ROADSHOW Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou & Chengdu

Toulouse, Nice & Paris

DEC

Malaysia, Putraja 09 OCT 11 OCT

TTG TRAVEL EXPERIENCE Rimini, Italy

02 DEC 05 DEC

INTERNATIONAL LUXURY TRAVEL MARKET (ILTM) Cannes, France

04 ROADSHOWS & FAIRS

MALDIVES... THE SUNNY SIDE OF LIFE PROMOTED IN ITALY will be meeting with travel trade industry

prominent cities of Italy. The first event

partners to further discuss, develop and

would take place in Rome on 14th October

strengthen the presence of the destination

2019 and the second event will be held

within the Italian market.

in Milan on 15th October 2019. This roadshow would serve as a platform to

Apart

from

the

business

meetings

reach and network with top travel trade

conducted during the fair and giving up

industry partners from Italy. There are nine

to date information about the destination,

participants from the tourism industry of

there will be activities organized at the stand

Maldives to further build the relationship

to attract more visitors. Visitors could take

with major Italian travel trade firms and

a photo with the Instagram frame and post

media.

it with hashtag #VisitMaldives. The photo with the most comments will win a raffle

With the first-ever tourists to the Maldives

sponsored by Furaveri Resort. Moreover,

arriving from Italy, it has remained amongst

visitors can have a taste of Maldivian

the most important traditional markets to-

flavours at the stand as well.

date. It has maintained its position in the top three markets overall, with a total of

A series of marketing activities have

The Maldives is showcased at 64sqm stand

commenced in Italy by Maldives Marketing

designed colourfully to display the beauty

With more than 2,131 exhibitors from 90

92,162 arrivals being recorded till August

& Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) at

of Maldives. MMPRC together with 25

countries represented at the fair, more than

2019. Tourist arrivals were recorded as

TTG Travel Experience 2019 and “Journey

other tourism industry partners will be

44,647 visitors are expected to visit this

69,787 for the same period in 2018, which

to the Sunny Side” Maldives roadshow.

showcasing the destination in this fair. TTG

year.

shows a growth of 32.1% this year.

being one of the leading tourism fairs in TTG Travel Experience 2019 is held in

Italy is the gateway to the Italian outbound

“Journey to the Sunny Side” Maldives

Rimini, Italy from 09 – 11 October 2019.

market. The Maldives industry professional

roadshow will be held in two of the most

MALDIVES PROMOTED IN FRANCE Maldives Marketing & Public Relations

and Paris from 7-10 October will serve as a

Corporation (MMPRC) has commenced

platform form for tourism industry partners

a series of marketing activities including

to showcase products and network with top

IFTM Top Resa and “Journey to the

travel trade industry partners from France.

Sunny Side” Maldives roadshow in France.

Eleven partners from the tourism industry

Maldives delegation will be led by the

of Maldives have participated in this

Deputy Managing Director of MMPRC, Ms

roadshow to create potential opportunities

Aishath Neesha Mohamed Shahid.

and to further strengthen the relationship with French tour operators.

IFTM Top Resa will be held in Paris, France from 1-4 October 2019. MMPRC together

France is one of the top generating market

with 20 tourism industry partners will be

as well as one of the important traditional

showcasing the destination at this fair

markets to the Maldives. A total of 50,476

which is considered to be the biggest trade

tourist arrivals were recorded from France

fair in France. Maldives delegation will be

to the Maldives in 2018 which is an increase

meeting with industry professionals during

of 19.1% compared to 2017. By the end

the fair to further develop and strengthen

of July 2019, 45,649 tourist arrivals were

the presence of the destination within the

recorded from France, this is an increase

French Market.

of 40.9% compared to the same period of 2018. With a 4.6% market share, France is

“Journey to the Sunny Side” Maldives

the 7th largest market to the Maldives for

roadshow will be held in Nice, Toulouse

this period.

ROADSHOWS & FAIRS 05

MALDIVES PROMOTED IN AUSTRALIA The roadshow will serve as a platform

Sydney as part of the marketing activities.

for Maldives tourism industry partners to

The objective of the media event is to share

showcase products & gain further exposure

the destination updates with the Australia

to the Maldives. Eleven companies have

media and establish a relationship to gain

participated in the Maldives roadshow

further exposure to the destination in

in Australia 2019, to create potential

addition, to reach out to the relevant target

opportunities and to further strengthen the

segments.

relationship with Australian tour operators.

Maldives Marketing & Public Relations

roadshow will cover three prominent cities

Corporation (MMPRC) has commenced a

of Australia: Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney

week of marketing activities for the travel

from 23rd to 27th September 2019 as part

trade & media in Perth, Australia on 23rd

of the roadshows organized by MMPRC

September. The marketing activities include

across the globe. The Maldives delegation

“Journey to the Sunny Side” roadshow

is headed by Mr Thoyyib Mohamed,

attended by top travel trade partners. The

Managing Director of MMPRC.

A raffle draw winner will be chosen from

The Australian market has seen tremendous

each city to spend holidays in the Maldives,

growth in terms of arrivals to the Maldives

with sponsorship from Crown & Champa

in 2019 reaching the 10th position in terms

Resorts, Villa Hotels & Resorts, The

of market ranking. Total of 23,785 guests

Residence Maldives, Voyages Maldives, Lux

has arrived from the Australian market

South Ari Atoll, Lux North Male Atoll, and

from January to July 2019, with a positive

Airfare from Singapore Airlines.

growth of 12.2 per cent when compared to the same period of 2018. Moreover,

Furthermore,

a

media

event

with

MMPRC plans to further strengthen the

prominent Australian travel media such as

market with additional activities throughout

Vacations and Travel Magazine, Traveller,

the year.

MiNDFOOD, Vogue Living, Marie Claire, the Robb Report, Signature Media and the Australian Women’s weekly will be held in

06 GOVERNMENT

TOURIST ARRIVALS INCREASE BY 16.6% IN AUGUST 2019 Tourist arrivals increased by 12.4 per cent

total from this segment to 478,048 from

in August compared to the same period

January to August. This is a 16.7% increase

last year, according to statistics released

from last year.

by the Tourism Ministry. A total of 139,338 tourists visited the Maldives by August

The American market contributed 4.9 per

2019.

cent of the total arrivals while Middle East saw its market share reached to 3.9 per

Arrivals surpassed the one million mark

cent due to a 14.9 per cent increase in the

last month, reaching 1, 134,071 by the end

number of tourist arrivals (42,774) in the

of August and which is a 16.6% increase

January-August period, whilst Africa, which

in tourist arrivals compared to the same

observed a 22.4 per cent growth in arrivals,

period last year.

contributed one per cent (11,555) of the total tourist arrivals over the past eights

The highest percentage of tourist arrivals

months. Relatively new markets such as

was from the Europe market which accounts

Africa and the Middle East also maintained

for 48.2 per cent of the market. This market

their strong performance.

recorded year-over-year growth of 14.1 per cent with 546,373 tourists.

The top 10 tourist arrival markets from January to August 2019 was China (18.1%),

The second highest market from which the

Italy (8.1%), Germany (7.5%), UK (7.3%),

Maldives welcomed tourists was the Asia

Russia (4.7%), France (3.8%), USA (3.1%),

Pacific market with 42.2%. August 2019

Japan (2.6%), and Australia (2.3%).

alone welcomed 64,982 accumulating the

PARLEY ANNOUNCES MALDIVES AS THE FIRST ‘FUTURE ISLAND NATION’

as the first ‘Future Island Nation.’ The

destination and collaboration space for

expanding collaboration now includes the

creators, leaders and thinkers – connecting

Ministry of Environment and the national

art,

waste management company WAMCO in

business in an eco-innovation driver for a

a 10-year action plan. Immediate steps

new, blue economy. This program will turn

include policy change, the expansion of

the Maldives into a launchpad for future

recycling

technology, research and development, and

infrastructure,

cleanups

and

community education initiatives across all

design,

science,

technology

and

creative collaboration.

levels of society, industry and government.

Education and direct action initiatives

“As a small island nation, we are faced

will also be offered to tourists visiting the

with many economic and environmental

country, empowering visitors to become

challenges. We suffer from problems that

messengers for the Oceans who bring

we didn’t create, and materials we didn’t

change back to their homeland.

invent. Plastic pollution is an example of that. We need to protect our ocean,

Declaring the Maldives as the base and

because it is our national treasure, and we

epicentre for its next chapter, Parley is

need to find ways to establish a new, vibrant

calling for a ‘Material Revolution’ and is

blue economy. That is why we decided

gathering the world’s leading creators and

to take the path of ocean conservation,

scientists to replace all harmful materials

collaboration and Eco-Innovation with

and products used in the supply chains

Parley for the Oceans. Together, we will

The Republic of the Maldives and Parley for

collaboration with the UN-OHRLLS to

of its brand partners within the next

tackle plastic pollution, harness alternative,

the Oceans have announced the extension

demonstrate how small island developing

seven years. The base for this global Eco-

clean energy sources, and protect Maldivian

of their partnership to create a scalable,

states (SIDS) can become leaders in the

Innovation initiative will be a small island in

waters from illegal fishing. I truly believe in

nationwide framework for solutions towards

fight to end marine plastic pollution by

the southern atolls of the Maldives, where

the innovative power and resilience of my

the achievement of SDG 7, SDG 9, SDG

implementing the Parley AIR Strategy (Avoid,

Parley is building, in collaboration with the

country, and its young and creative people.”

11, SDG 12, SDG 13, SDG 14 and SDG 15

Intercept, Redesign) in a collaborative,

Republic of the Maldives, a permanent

- H.E. Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, President

under the United Nations 2030 Agenda for

innovative approach to solutions.

collaboration space, Parley Station One.

of the Republic of the Maldives.

With the successful completion of an

Parley Station One, located on the island

Cyrill Gutsch, Founder and CEO of Parley

The island nation was the first to answer

initial pilot phase, Parley for the Oceans

Kondey Mathee Laabadhoo in the southern

for the Oceans said, “To leave toxic

a global call to action led by Parley in

recognizes the Republic of the Maldives

Gaafu Alifu Atoll, will provide a unique

materials in the past, we need to do more

Sustainable Development.

GOVERNMENT 07 than intercept them. We need to develop

to call the Maldives the first ‘Future Island

2016, during the 70th Session of the United

Malé. In collaboration with the Ministry of

and test new materials, new technologies

Nation’, because we see this magic country

Nations General Assembly. Since piloting

Education, local schools and NGOs, Parley

and question existing product concepts

as a Symbol of Change and a canvas for

the project, Parley has introduced programs

Ocean School programs have helped more

and business models. By inventing Ocean

the new. Together we are now not only

to reduce reliance on single-use plastics, as

than 100,000 youth and their parents go

Plastic®, Parley turned a problem into an

combatting marine plastic pollution but

well as plastic interception and baling sites

swimming and snorkelling to experience

economic opportunity, and with our AIR

piloting solutions for Climate Change and

in island communities and more than 70

the world beneath the blue surface, many

Strategy, we are creating the blueprints

Illegal Fishing.”

schools. Parley has also led collaborative

for the very first time.

for systemic change. The Republic of the

cleanups Maldives

first

entered

into

on

affected

coastlines

and

Maldives was early to believe in our vision

The

a

opened the first-ever recycling centre and

and to act on our strategy. We’re honoured

collaboration with Parley in September

innovation lab in the island nation’s capital,

THE MALDIVES DEBUTS 19 NEW RESORTS BY SEPTEMBER 2019 has

The Maldives witnessed an increase of

announced that 19 new resorts have been

tourist arrivals by 12.4 per cent in August

opened by September 2019 and the 20th

compared to the same period last year.

resort will debut at Addu City. He made the

A total of 139,338 tourists visited the

announcement at the Tourism Conference

Maldives by August 2019.

Tourism

Minister

Ali

Waheed

held at Crossroads Maldives.

Arrivals surpassed the one million mark Tourism Ministry statistics state that there

last month, reaching 1, 134,071 by the end

are 869 tourist centres registered by August

of August and which is a 16.6% increase

2019. These include 154 resorts, 12

in tourist arrivals compared to the same

hotels, 549 guesthouses and 103 safaris.

period last year.

All this combined gives an accumulated bed capacity of 47, 824.

THE MALDIVES TO SPONSOR LA LIGA CLUB, RC CELTA The Maldives to be one of the sponsorship

from Ghaazee School, Aiham Ibrahim and

partners of La Liga Club, RC Celta.

Hussain Aaish who played key roles to clinch Champions of Kids Football Fiesta

Under the partnership, the official tourism

for Ghaazee School team.

brand of Maldives’s ‘Visit Maldives’ logo to be printed on Celta de Vigo jerseys,

Real Club Celta de Vigo, commonly known

stadium, practice kit, and boards. In

as Celta Vigo or simply Celta, is a Spanish

addition to this, Celta de Vigo will also

professional football club based in Vigo,

provide assistance and support to develop

Galicia, currently playing in La Liga. It was

the Maldives Football.

founded on 23 August 1923 following the merger of Real Vigo Sporting and Real

Two kids from the Maldives has also been

Fortuna Football Club. Nicknamed Os

granted the opportunity to train at Celta de

Celestes (The Sky Blues), they play in sky

Vigo’s Academy. These kids were selected by

blue shirts and socks along with white

former Real Madrid and Spanish Defender

shorts. The club’s home stadium is the

Míchel Salgado during the Tourism Day

Abanca-Balaídos,

celebratory Kids Football Fiesta that took

spectators.

place on 2nd October. The two boys were

which

seats

29,000

08 GOVERNMENT

FIRST SIX MONTHS OF 2019 MOST SUCCESSFUL FOR TOURISM IN THE LAST FIVE YEARS: MMPRC MD THOYYIB Maldives Marketing and Public Relations

in tourist arrivals from Germany and a

Company (MMPRC) has stated that the

12.6% increase has been seen from the

first six months of 2019 has been the most

United Kingdom. Thoyyib stated that the

successful for tourism since 2010.

rate of tourist arrivals from these three countries are increasing gradually year by

Speaking at a press conference held on

year. He further noted that the increase

Thursday, the Managing Director of MMPRC

of tourists from the countries is due to

said that the tourism industry witnessed a

the stabilization of their economy and due

rise of 19% in tourist arrivals during the first

to the appointment of a public relations

six months of the year.

representative for the country.

“The Government aims to bring 1.5 million

MMPRC has designated Public Relations

tourists to the Maldives. By early August,

agencies in six nations to promote the

we have welcomed over 1.1 million tourists

archipelago’s image and boost tourist

to the Maldives, hence it is expected that

arrivals effective July 1.

we will reach the target in early November,” said Thoyyib.

The designated PR agencies are as follows: · China – Travel Link Marketing

According to the statistics report publicized

· Germany – Kaus Media Services

by the MMPRC, from the European nations,

· UK – MEC UK

the largest increase in the number of tourists

· France – Interface Tourism

visiting the Maldives was recorded in the

· India – Think Strawberries Luxury Travel

number of arrivals from Italy, Germany and

Marketing

the United Kingdom.

· South Korea – S Marketing and Communication

Tourist arrivals from Italy has increased

The Maldives has seen a notable increase

by 37.7% while 19.7% was recorded

in the Indian market, with an increase

of 100%, with 82, 140 tourist arrival by

The corporation has also conducted 12 joint

the end of August. However, the most

promotion ventures, 12 global advertising

dominating marketing to the Maldives is

events and 12 endorsement events, in

China with 140,265 tourists having visited

addition to 6 networking trips and the local

the Maldives in the last six months.

tourism guesthouse seminars held earlier this year.

MMPRC has participated in 15 tourism fairs held in 12 different countries this year. The marketing & PR agency has conducted 5 roadshows in 13 countries, 11 familiarization trips for foreign media personnal including the UK, South Korea, India and China.

ECONOMIC MINISTRY TO PUSH SELLING AUTHENTIC MALDIVIAN PRODUCTS IN RESORTS Economic Ministry has announced that they

to deploy a special logo to represent the

want to focus on selling authentic Maldivian

authenticity of Maldivian products.

products in resorts during the inauguration of Fannu Expo 2019 on 16th September.

Fannu Expo is a National level exhibition organized by the Ministry of Economic

Speaking at the “Fannu Expo” organized

Development to promote the creative arts

by the Ministry of Economic Development,

& craftsmanship works of the Maldives.

Minister Fayyaz Ismail highlighted that the

The expo is set to be held on 22nd to

ministry wants to pace the way for local

28th November 2019 at Dharubaaruge,

producers and provide them opportunities

Kalaafaanu school and Children’s park.

to sell their products in resort souvenir

His Excellency Vice President Faisal Naseem

shops. He further added that the ministry

Inaugurated Fannu expo 2019.

along with the business council is working

GOVERNMENT 09

GOVERNMENT TO LEASE ISLANDS FOR HALAL TOURISM The government has announced plans to

Moreover, activities will be conducted by

lease islands to introduce Muslim friendly

the Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of

tourism or more commonly known as halal

Economic Development to attract investors

tourism to the Maldives.

to develop halal tourism in the Maldives.

Halal tourism is a growing market segment

The SAP further states that an understanding

with Muslim tourists choosing tourist

will be facilitated in 2012 between banks

destinations that cater to their needs and

and the Ministry of Economic Development

wants. According to the Thompson Reuters

to introduce new Sharia-compliant finance

report, Muslim travellers accounted for

schemes for the development of halal

11.8% of the tourism in 2017.

tourism.

The recently unveiled Strategic Action

While tourism was introduced to the

plan for 2019-2024 by the government

Maldives 47 years ago, so far a Muslim-

states that policies and regulations will be

friendly resort hasn’t been developed

established to introduce halal tourism to

within the country. ADK company worked

the Maldives. The task will be overseen by

to build an Islamic concept resort in Sh.

the Attorney’s General Office, Ministry of

Gaakoshibee but the project later came to

Islamic Affairs and Ministry of Tourism.

a halt.

GUINNESS WORLD RECORD HOLDER MICHAL KAPRAL BREAKS A GUINNESS WORLD RECORD IN MALDIVES Guinness World Record Holder, Mr Michal

running and juggling. Michal Kapral holds

Kapral has become the fastest person to

the Guinness World Record of 2 hours

run a 10k while simultaneously juggling four

50 minutes and 12 seconds in joggling.

objects during TFG CocaCola RunInAddu

Michal’s previous world record attempts

2019. Many surprised of the ground-

have received widespread media coverage

breaking record Mr Michal has overcome,

by being featured on ESPN, Good Morning

In Only 55 minutes and 48 Mr Michal was

America, CNN, ABC, CBS, NPR and other

sure to break the jaws of Guinness World

TV and Radio programs.

record and imprint his name for another great World Record in the book. On this

His world record attempts were covered by

occasion, Maldives Marketing and Public

international media and documented on

Relations Company (MMPRC) would like to

social media to reach a wider audience. As

thank Kaimoo, Equator Village, Adaaran on

Mr Kapral is Canadian, this event further

providing an excellent stay for Michal and

promotes the Maldives as a destination to

Family. Moreover, a huge appreciation to

the growing Canadian market. This trip

TFG in making this event possible.

fits into to MMPRC’s marketing strategy to promote the Maldives on a global stage to

His second record-breaking attempt will

niche markets specifically to MICE, culture

feature him attempting world record for

and sports tourists. Based on the Arrival

the most consecutive stairs climbed while

figures from January to August 2019, total

juggling three objects which is up to 1,776

tourist arrivals recorded to be 1,134,071,

steps; equivalent to the height of CN Tower

which is an increase of 16.6 % when

in Canada, one of the tallest buildings in the

compared to the same period of 2018.

world. He will attempt this on 11th October

This event is part of a series of marketing

2019 during the Children’s Evening Held in

activities to promote the Maldives across

Sultan Park.

different countries.

Michal Kapral is a world-famous athlete for “joggling”, a sport that combines

10 MARKET OVERVIEW

MARKET OVERVIEW - MIDDLE EAST Middle East is located in the western portion

of all outbound travel from Middle east

restaurants for foodies, sightseeing and

focusing on promoting their destinations to

of the Asian continent, known as Western

region. They contribute about 75% of total

other cultural activities, are part of the

attract middle east tourist market.

Asia. It has a territorial extension of more

international tourism expenditure from the

criteria for selection of the destination.

than 6.8 million square kilometers, with an

Middle East.

estimated population of 260 million. There

Airline industry in the middle east is one When

choosing

the

destination

for

of the fastest growing airline industry in

are 16 countries in Middle East. They are

Looking in to the Middle East outbound

vacations there are several very clear

the world. In terms of airports and airlines

Afghanistan, Bahrain, Qatar, United Arab

tourism destinations, most number of

criteria’s for Middle East Tourist. Hence

traffics

Emirates, Yemen, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan,

Middle East outbound tourist travel to

the Middle east has a high rate of Muslim

is considered as an aviation hub of the

Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Syria, Turkey.

countries belongs Asia Pacific region and

population, Halaal food, Family friendly

world. It is the home for world most well-

The world wealthiest countries are also

Europe. Egypt, India, Saudi Arabia, United

accommodation, Halaal tourism products

established airlines such as Emirates, Qatar,

belonging to Middle East region. Within the

Kingdom, Turkey, Malaysia and Indonesia

availability are the one significant factor

Fly Dubai, Etihad airways, Oman air and

region, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)

are among most visited places by Middle

while choosing the destination for travel by

many more. These airlines play a significant

countries such as Saudi Arabia, United

East tourist.

Middle east tourist. Therefore, often middle

role in connecting connect Middle east with

east tourist prefers to spend their holiday

the rest of the world.

Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and

and

connectivity,

middle

east

Oman are considered among world richest

The number of outbound tourists from

in Muslim country. Egypt , Saudi Arabia ,

countries.

Middle east countries has been increasing

Malaysia and Indonesia are considered as a

In the recent years, Middle east market

year on year. The primary reason for driving

popular tourist destinations for middle east

remains as an important tourist market to

Middle East region is the one of the

the Middle East Outbound Tourism Market

travelers.

the Maldives. While looking in the tourist

smallest, yet the fastest growing tourist

is vacation activities including relaxing,

generating region in the world. According to

shopping and sightseeing. In General,

Middle east consists of world wealthiest

arrival to the Maldives in past five years,

the UNWTO reports, the Middle East’s total

Arabs are family oriented and often Middle

countries, which makes the tourist from

there was a steady growth of tourist arrival

outbound market was reached over 40.5

east tourist travel outbound with the family.

this region considered as one of the highest

from middle east region to the Maldives.

million in 2017, which is was 37.91 million in

The family travel by Middle east tourist is

spending travelers in the world. They spend

However, due to the political unrest and

2015. From 2012 to 2016, total outbound

substantially higher when compared to the

as much as USD500 more than the average

civil wars in the middle east region, there

trips grew by 24.6%, the equivalent of an

other tourist regions of the world. Middle

traveler from European countries. This has

was a slight decrease in the number of

average growth rate of 4.9%, higher than in

east tourist is cautious about the destination

made the Middle East countries one of the

tourist arrivals from middle east region to

other parts of the world. With the region,

being able to cater for all family members

most profitable outbound tourist markets in

Maldives in 2017.

the

(GCC)

and children in particular. Availability of

today’s fast growing international tourism

countries constitute all together about 60%

entertainment parks, shopping, choice of

industry. Many tourism destinations are

Gulf

Cooperation

Council

arrival statistics of middle east tourist

11

23,540

MARKET OVERVIEW

In 2018, there over 52,114 tourists visited

tourist markets with Middle east region,

Looking in to the first quarter of 2019,

factors that motivates and attract middles

from Middle east to the Maldives and it

Saudi Arabia was the major contributor

majority

markets

east tourist to the Maldives. While, looking

contributes 3.5% of total tourist market

with a number of 23,540 tourist arrival,

performed positively by the end of first

at the Travel trends of middle east tourist

share. This is 5.9% increase compare to the

following United Arab emirates (9,018),

quarter 2019. However, the largest tourist

to Maldives, Majority of the middle east

previous year. While looking at the individual

Kuwait ( 4,5590) and Egypt ( 3,530) .

market from middle east to the Maldives

travelers travel first time to the Maldives,

- Saudi Arabia observed a substantial

travel with their spouse and they prefer to

decline of -6.4%. Though, Saudi Arabia

stay in high end resort accommodation.

captured the largest market share (1.1%)

Middle east tourist prefers to spend short

from the Middle Eastern region in the first

holidays in Maldives and spend average 4-5

quarter of 2019. Other tourist markets

nights in Maldives.

of

Middle

Eastern

from the region such as Kuwait (27.2%), United Arab Emirates (20.6%), and Qatar (62.4%) showed a strong double-digit growth. Tourist Arrival from Qatar has been increased tremendously in the first quarter of 2019 after the heavy decline in 2018.

In the recent years, Maldives is becoming a popular tourist destination among Middle east tourists. Maldives Visitor Survey 2018 (MVS) indicated that Honeymoon is the main reason for Middle east tourists to visit Maldives. Apart from honeymoon, rest and relaxation m explore underwater beauty and beaches are also significant reasons for the Middle east tourists to visit Maldives.

Moreover, the survey shows that beach and natural beauty of Maldives are the

12

PEOPLE

MALDIVIANS WORKING ABROAD: MOHAMED IUJAZ FRONT OFFICE MANAGER AT HILTON SEYCHELLES LABRIZ RESORT & SPA of this training programme was with Hilton

things onto the island takes ages; getting the

Kuala Lumpur back in 2014. Shortly after

right people and retaining them was not the

graduation, I started working at the Conrad

easiest. I received immense guidance from

Maldives (which still belongs to the Hilton

the General Manager as well as the former

chain). Call it wanderlust, but I craved for

Front Office Manager (who funnily enough

a more challenging environment and found

moved from Seychelles to the Maldives) on

myself applying overseas again in 2016 and

facing and overcoming these challenges.

have been here in Seychelles ever since.

Do you believe that working abroad Why are you willing to work helps your career? Why? overseas?

It has been nothing but a journey; I have Because there is no better feeling than

leaving your own country with a passport Our team at Travel Trade Maldives decided

our guest experiences are curated around

and a bag and returning with a suitcase

to sit down and gain some insight on the

nature; the villas are surrounded by lush

full of life-lasting experiences, emotions

inspiring story of Mohamed Iujaaz, Front

greenery, some of the infrastructures are

and memories. There is no better way of

Office Manager at Hilton Seychelles Labriz

built into large granitic rocks and all of our

learning to appreciate your own country and

Resort & Spa. He has worked from the very

activities are dedicated to discovering the

traditions than to work in a foreign country

bottom, applying his solid virtues and is

indigenous and some endangered wildlife

with a different culture and a different

one of the Maldivians working abroad at a

of the island. The efforts put in by Hilton

mindset. I truly believe that working abroad

hospitality brand.

to help conserve the environment and being

helps me become a better version of myself

the pioneer for sustainable tourism in the

and I am so thankful for this.

country makes me proud of being part of

been blessed with an opportunity that allowed me to grow in my career and especially as a person. I started off as Guest Relations Manager and within a time span of 2 years, I have received two promotions to become Front Office Manager which I believe wouldn’t have happened if I had remained in the Maldives. Working in a remote environment such as this has also taught me a lot in terms of social skills, budgeting, forecasting as well as people

management. It opened doors for me that What interests you about your this team. All the above factors compensate particular job?

How did you adapt to overseas wouldn’t have otherwise: the entire world for the challenges faced with being in such a is now a playground and I am not limited to The best part about my job is that there work culture? is no routine. Every day feels like the first day at work: you face new guests, new

remote destination where communications

and logistics are not always your best friend.

challenges, new experiences and best of

The first month was the toughest. I was

just my home, the Maldives.

used to working in the Maldives or in Malaysia, both well-oiled machines in terms

Where do you see yourself in 5 How long have you been working of modern infrastructure and skilled labour years? every day. Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & abroad? force. Coming to Seychelles was a culture Definitely back in the Maldives, leading a all, you learn something new each and

Spa is based on a twenty thousand hectare

I was lucky enough to have been selected

shock for me: things you took for granted

island, 93% of which is a virgin forest. As

in the first batch of Management Trainees

were no longer readily available; there is

soon as you step out of your room you are

by Hilton Worldwide for the Asia Pacific

no highspeed internet, parts of the island

surrounded by this peaceful nature. All of

region. My first overseas placement as part

still have no phone coverage; getting simple

GENERAL MANAGER APPOINTED FOR NEW HOTEL OF ATMOSPHERE HOTELS & RESORTS VARU by Atmosphere, Maldives - the

as the General Manager for the renowned

newest property under the dynamic Indian

Hulhule Island Hotel. While working for

Ocean hospitality group Atmosphere Hotels

the hotel he spearheaded the tremendous

& Resorts, due to open in October 2019

growth and positioning of the hotel and

– has appointed Utkarsh Faujdar as their

was responsible for the accelerated growth

General Manager.

of profit apart from winning international awards.

Prior to joining the Atmosphere Group in the Maldives, Utkarsh has been in the

Before moving to the Maldives Utkarsh was

hospitality industry over three decades. The

working as General Manager for Trident

past 14 years he was based in the Maldives

Hilton Agra, a 140-room Five-Star Hotel in

luxury resort and applying all the knowledge and experience I have gained into the Maldivian hospitality scene.

PEOPLE

13

the North of India - part of Oberoi Group

growth within the ‘By Atmosphere’ white-

Giri Venkata, President & Chief Operating

Atmosphere Kanifushi, opened its doors

of Hotels. Utkarsh is an efficient, result-

label sub-brand – along with the group’s

Officer, said: “I am very excited to have such

on December 2013. The group opened its

oriented and hands-on General Manager,

other sub-brands of OZEN, OBLU and

an experienced hotel industry professional

second property, OBLU by Atmosphere at

adept at creating and leading a team from

OBLU Select.

like Utkarsh as part of the Atmosphere

Helengeli, in November 2015; followed by

Hotels & Resorts. I am confident that with

their flagship Lifestyle Luxury sub-brand,

“I am thrilled to be part of the Atmosphere

his support and the excellent team; VARU

OZEN by Atmosphere, in July 2016; and

Family and excited to deliver an Authentic

by Atmosphere will soon be a key player in

then OBLU Select at Sangeli, which opened

The opening of VARU by Atmosphere is the

Maldivian resort experience here on this

the Maldives resort segment.”

on July 2018. The newest addition to the

start of the ambitious expansion plans of

brand-new island. I am looking forward to

the Indian Ocean based Hospitality group.

working with newly formed VARU Team,

Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts is a dynamic

a naturally Maldivian experience, is due to

With several new properties being added

and together we will be ready to deliver

and fast-growing Indian Ocean Hotels

open on October 2019.

to the existing four property portfolio

an outstanding holiday experience to our

& Resorts group currently based in the

this appointment will enhance the group’s

guests,” commented Utkarsh Faujdar.

Maldives.

diverse

backgrounds

towards

meeting

organizational goals.

portfolio, VARU by Atmosphere, offering

Atmosphere’s

first

property,

CHEVAL BLANC RANDHELI APPOINTS LAURENT CHANCEL AS THEIR GENERAL MANAGER Laurent Chancel joined Cheval Blanc

Cheval Blanc Randheli is a luxury property

Randheli in 2013 as the resort’s Culinary

located in Noonu Atoll. Following in the

Director. There he built a strong basis of

footsteps of the first Cheval Blanc resort

the culinary art concept with his experience

on the slopes of Courchevel and designed

and moved to Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de

by

France in mid-2016 as a Resident Manager.

exceptional resort is owned by the luxury

He returned to Cheval Blanc Randeli in

conglomerate LVMH (owners of Louis

mid-2017 as their Resident Manager and

Vuitton, Céline, Dior) and features 45

worked closely with Renato W. Chizzola for

exquisitely appointed villas with infinity

two years before taking on the position as

pools and breathtaking ocean views, five

the General Manager from 01st September

gourmet restaurants, an exclusive Guerlain

2019.

spa and a range of extravagant amenities.

architect

Jean-Michel

Gathy,

the

YOU & ME BY COCOON MALDIVES APPOINTS AHMED JIHAD AS NEW GENERAL MANAGER You & Me by Cocoon Maldives has appointed

a 45-minute scenic seaplane flight from

Ahmed Jihad as its new General Manager.

the main Velana International Airport.

Ahmed Jihad began his hotel career at

Alternatively, guests can take a domestic

Full Moon Maldives, after completing a

flight to the Ifuru domestic airport in Raa

degree in Hospitality Management at TAFE,

atoll, followed by a 20-minute speedboat

QLD, Australia. He started as Front Office

ride to the resort.

Manager, working his way up to Resident Manager. This was followed by a stint at

Positioned as an achingly elegant, rustic-

Sheraton Maldives before he joined the

chic resort that exclusively caters to guests

team at Baros for the first time in 2008.

aged 16 and above, You & Me has 109 villas

His career took him to Niyama Maldives in

— of which 99 are over water — and six

2011, followed by Huvafenfushi, where he

superb dining outlets scattered around the

remained Resort Manager for the past five

island, each highlighting the resort’s unique

years.

views, flavours and features. The resort features five restaurants, offering Japanese

You & Me is located in the secluded

fine dining and authentic Italian dishes in an

northern atoll of Raa and is accessible by

elegant and rustic environment.

14

PEOPLE I did several broadcastings for different

residual effect of this issue is a challenge to

programs with TVM and TVM Plus crew

corporations and hiring managers to rethink

behind the camera in the third year, 2002.

their traditional paradigms of “job hopping”

After a distinguished accomplishment of

and to be proactive in identifying talent rich

my advanced study, I was then offered the

geographies for forecasted future employee

opportunity to work in resorts by my father

growth.

who is employed working for hospitality and tourism since 1978 with Universal Hotels and Resorts Maldives.

Also, career transitioning, these days many job seekers lack the ability to translate previous work experiences and

AHMED SHIYAZ

EXECUTIVE HOUSEKEEPER AT AMILLA FUSHI

I was offered the position of housekeeping

skills into new industries and employment

executive by Mr. Saalim the General

opportunities. The fact is that many

Manager

Beach

employers are looking for personality types,

and Spa Resort by Sun travel & Tours in

individuals with specific soft skills. The

2003, I contributed till Tsunami disaster

technical side of the job can be taught on-

in 2004. This was my first introduction to

site. The problem is many job seekers seem

the industry from a luxury perspective and

to think if they’re last experience does not

to take my career further. After the tragic

match a job posting’s desired requirements

impact of tsunami, I then joined the first

100% then they don’t stand a chance and

resort opened in country the Kurumba

don’t bother applying.” But candidates

Maldives by Universal. I began to realize

shouldn’t be afraid to apply for jobs that

that I aspired to be more than just the

may not seem like a perfect fit on paper.

Housekeeping Executive. I am extremely

“There are always areas where an applicant

goal driven person. I began to understand

may be lagging but then they may also excel

my true career goals when I stepped in

in other areas the company would find

to an international brands such as Four

valuable. I had encouraged and groomed

Seasons, Conrad Hilton, Shangri-La where

many of my friends and colleagues to the

I continued my career with Rooms Division

title there are holding today. I have always

Front Office operation, Rooms-Reservations

focused on my people.

(former)

of

Olhuveli

as a Client Information Specialist and Reservations Executive.

What are some of your successes?

Ahmed Shiyaz is a Master’s honoree. The

traveled hotelier with distinctive knowledge

Executive Housekeeper is a Key Manager

of international luxury Hotel, Resorts,

When I first started to work in the industry

success was completing my Post Graduate

of Rooms Division working in Amilla

Residences

Operations,

with global brands, I worked for several

Degree and The Honors Master’s Degree

Fushi by TSMIC, a Gold List Condé Nast

extensive

Executive

luxury resorts based in Maldives. Somehow,

in Business Administration in 3 years at

Travellers and a Forbes Standard Luxury

Management roles and I am an expert in

it fascinated me. You meet the best people

the highest awarded level 9 approved by

Resort Maldives. He has been working

ultra-luxury Hotels & Resorts Openings. I

in luxury hotels. I wanted to be a part of the

MNQF Maldives Qualification Authority.

in the Hospitality and Tourism for over

have acquired these skills in multiple Iconic

“best”. Working in Cheval Blanc Randheli

This academic international achievement

17 years and have developed a keen eye

and Flagship Properties over the past 2

by LVMH, another extravagant where I was

I accomplished while I was employed with

for detail, a passion for delivering luxury

decades delivering significant results within

educated for global luxury etiquettes and

Outrigger by Singha Estate. The whole

service and unique talent for branding,

the leisure and hospitality industry in resorts.

protocols. For me luxury means that you

assignment taught me to prioritize my time,

covering a diverse range of Rooms Division

I have worked in a variety of management

try to take care of those guests who enjoy

build great habits and stay focused on my

Operations. Worked with MCM world

roles in Iconic Hotels & Resorts Brands

being pampered and looked after.

goals. I’m proud of this accomplishment

global hospitality consultant in Cheval

such as Four Seasons, Hilton, Shangri-La,

Blanc Randheli who have also worked with

Cheval Blanc Randheli by LVMH. With an

to name a few, Prince William, the late

& experiences, I am driven by passion for

Princess Diana, Dodi Al Faid, Saudi Prince,

people, for our industry and strives for

Curtis James Jackson know as 50 cent to

excellence in every endeavor.

and

Estates

experience

in

My greatest professional achievements and

and I feel that what I learned is going to give

What are some of the challenges me a big advantage in my career now. wealthiest personalities around the world ambition to continue sharing knowledge you have faced?

High turnover and lack of workforce mobility,

A change is always good also, one of my

especially within the young population is

biggest success in this career. When you

something I always concerned and worried

work in a competitive organization such

about. Long gone are the days of readily

as prestigious brands, style or whether a

available employees who will move for the

class, you have to pay attention to what is

I grew up with a restaurant family. Which

right development opportunities. On the

changing around you. We live in such a fast-

is also why I got interested to this industry.

employee side it creates a dynamic which

moving world, the greatest trial is to keep

My father Mr. Ibrahim Manik who is another

results in a greater number of transitions

up with new trends and to adapt to them.

inspirational hotelier working in hospitality

between companies throughout their career

Our business is constantly evolving, guests

for the last 41 years in culinary who

to drive professional development and

have many choices nowadays; we have to

allowed me to finish my advanced diploma

career progression. On the employer side

keep up with the changes. We have to be

in Electrical and Software Engineering

it results in a continuing trend of increased

present in all sales channels. I was always

which I started in 2000 after my secondary

“undesired” turnover.” The burden then

following the new trends, it is not always

education in Addu City. I did my internship

falls to HR to develop new strategies for

about the tradition.

of the course with Television Maldives where

holding onto employees long-term. The

Receiving compliments from a guest,

Bernard Arnault, the chairman and chief executive of LVMH Moët Hennessy – Louis Vuitton.

Brief introduction I started work in the industry 17 years ago. The very early stage of my career working in Front Office, Rooms Division Operation. Mainly involved in operations and administration of different product and concepts with prestigious resort brands in Maldives. I am a well-rounded and well-

How did you get started?

PEOPLE 15 especially when my colleagues see my

compliments which I celebrate together.

name, the amazing, efficient, professional,

know what they specifically learn about our

their experiences to be immersive and

industry, and I would appreciate to have a

real, the appearance of luxury is no longer

What is your advice for young perspective of the knowledge people who enough. We are responding to this by the TripAdvisor for many times and when my adults who wish to pursue a career join this industry have. Well, you need a personalization of guest stays, we anticipate solid education background and diversified as much as we can about our guests and guests says I would love to return to your in this industry? or the diligent Shiyax and team in the

resort soon.

You need to have a great amount of passion to stick to this industry. It takes hard work

work experiences with genuine discipline.

tailor their experience to their personal

You need to understand the importance of

tastes wherever possible. This attention to

managing people as well as the technical

detail keeps guests loyal to any property

aspects of the business.

at any star category, it’s all about genuine

Also, a very special mention, my fellow

and long hours. It’s glamourous on the

colleagues working together, when we

outside but the backend is a lot of work.

achieve our goals and the team receives

We are always planning for one event

recognition, it is certainly a time to be

after the other and there is never a dull

Of course, in order to be successful, the

proud; and of course when my followers

day serving your customer. Also, today

most important thing is that you need

consider me as their mentor. To me, these

it is important what young people learn

to be able to focus on your guests. Our

are the best successes, achievements and

at school or the university. I would like to

guests come to Maldives are looking for

connections and behaviors. Hospitality and tourism is a beautiful industry, not just about work and getting paid every month. It is about bringing out your best.

in Virgin Gorda - British Virgin Islands. I’ve

above, maintaining a positive mindset and

spent around a total of 6+ of my career

allowing myself to be approachable whilst

years working in the international arena

starting out with the basic assumption

apart from the Maldives.

that people in the new culture are friendly and welcoming, even if there are hiccups in communicating have without doubt

Why are you willing to work overseas?

helped me position successfully well in international environments.

Having international exposure not only a unique understanding and skill-set that’s

Do you believe that working abroad helps your career? Why?

highly sought-after. Global exposure can

If you work in a foreign environment, your

also result in an appreciation and awareness

adaptability, flexibility and communication

of other cultures, values and markets,

skills are inevitably going to improve.

having these broader values allows you to

Also, the chance to work with a diverse set

build up the sensitivity and necessary skills

of people to achieve common goals will

to operate in an international landscape,

help improve your team-working skills.

as well as a greater understanding in

You will be forced to accept different

the complexities and developments in

viewpoints that will inevitably help boost

international economies. Once you have an

your objectiveness, reasoning and fairness,

appreciation of different cultures at work

all of which are qualities that are essential

and an understanding of how to support

for a successful leader. Another great

growing businesses in emerging markets,

opportunity to work abroad is that they also

you position yourself well to take on senior

allow you to experience the local culture;

change/HR transformation and strategic

this is not only interesting from a personal

HR roles.

perspective, but it can also help boost

broadens your horizons but equips you with

MALDIVIANS WORKING ABROAD: RIZAN AFEEF Our team at Travel Trade Maldives decided

‘human’ place to be doesn’t change despite

to gain some insight into the inspirational

all the advancement towards technology we

story of Rizan Afeef, Director of Human

are witnessing; it’s more or less a chance

Resources at Rosewood Little Dix in the

to be more human and stand out from the

British Virgin Islands.

crowd.

your professional skills. As business is not

How did you adapt to overseas work culture?

Embarking on a programme of crosscultural training is invaluable before taking

conducted in the same manner across the world, experiencing a different way to work can help you get a better understanding of certain practices.

up international assignments; making an and prejudices as well as what to expect in

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

the new culture is of vital importance. It

To be able to partner or work with a

What interests you about your How long have you been working is highly encouraged to build up a picture of the new culture by reading literature, particular job? abroad?

prominent NGO such as UNICEF, World

effort to learn and understand the mindset

Vision, Solve Education etc. to alleviate

We are given an opportunity every day to

My adventurous spirit & passion towards

newspapers, employment act and blogs.

suffering, help communities rebuild and

create inspiring and lasting relationships,

the exploration of new environments and

Connecting with your new employer and

strengthen resilience for the future and to

learn new things, live our passions and

cultures has fueled me take on a couple of

bridging

colleagues

become an inspiring advocate for poverty

solve complex problems that can impact the

international assignments in exotic locations

prior to physically commencing have also

eradication that integrates a focus on

lives of millions of people. Businesses don’t

such as Desroches Island - Seychelles,

helped me settle and adapt in no time as

children to steer.

make products – people make products.

Xishuangbanna - China, Sepang – Malaysia,

I’ve had the opportunity to clear out my

And that concept of the workplace is a very

Colombo – Sri Lanka and presently based

questions well in advance. Apart from the

relationships

with

16 PEOPLE

IBRAHIM MIRNAN MANIU

CLUSTER ASSISTANT SALES MANAGER AT CROSSROADS MALDIVES

regret it and I believe I was able to prove

working on this project, she offered me to

her and the team that despite my lack of

come and join her. And that is how I got the

experience in the industry, I was able to

opportunity to come here to this position.

make a stand with my line of work.

She has been my greatest mentor who saw my potential from the very beginning

The first few days at Outrigger made me realize that everything was very new for

and offered a helping hand exactly when I needed it. I am forever thankful for her.

me, that I had a lot to learn. But I always

What do you consider as some of My name is Ibrahim Mirnan Maniu, I’m 26 And when you really look into it, you can see the tasks that they gave me, ensuring it was your notable successes?

My first job wasn’t in Sales & Marketing.

knew that I could find a way to complete

years old and I currently work at Crossroads

this particular field is very much occupied

done to the best mark. My DOSM would

If I really think back, when I started with

Maldives. I’m looking after sales for two

by expats. Hence, I was a bit reluctant on

mostly be travelling on business trips and

Outrigger Maldives in December of 2016

resorts which is Hardrock Hotel Maldives

whether I can pursue a career in this field.

since there wasn’t a dedicated sales team,

and when I look at today, less than 3

and SAii Lagoon Maldives under the

Right after I came back from my studies

I was the only sales and marketing person

years from that time, I feel like it is a very

Crossroads Maldives project. Before joining

in Malaysia, I got the opportunity to work

based on the resort at the time. I was very

small time frame for the development rate

here, I have worked with Joali Maldives,

at a company called Open Hotelier which

much involved in all the areas and it taught

that I have achieved. I would say that the

Vakkaru Maldives and with Outrigger

is a travel tech firm in the Maldives. A

me a lot. As I was doing a bit of sales there,

speed I was able to climb up the ladder is

Konotta Maldives in Sales and Marketing

travel tech firm is something you normally

I thought this might be a good area for me

something I am very proud of and I think

positions.

won’t hear off in this country, so it kind of

to try as it piqued my interest rather than

this was mainly due to my belief to never

grabbed my interest. It allowed me to take

marketing.

settle for something that I think is not good

Introduction

enough for me. Sometimes people find it

on a marketing post, which I believe was a

How did you get started with your good start. career?

Starting from my school days, I was always

So, I applied to Vakkaru Maldives as a Sales Coordinator and since I had my experience

difficult to move forward from their current position because of job security, comfort and convenience. I think I would say this is

interested in working in the hospitality

This is how I actually got introduced into the

with Outrigger to show for, I was lucky

industry.

industry. Through this, I got the opportunity

enough to get the post I applied for. I believe

to meet numerous sales and marketing

luck played a role here as well, as someone

professionals from the resorts and hotels.

put their trust in me and hired me as a Sales

A few things I would like to highlight is

After meeting with them, and seeing their

Coordinator while my past experience was

when I was working as a Sales Coordinator,

line of work, I realized it was possible for

mostly in marketing. At Vakkaru Maldives,

taking up the challenges of Sales Managers.

me to take on a role there and do something

I had to work with a boss who was very

I always saw competition everywhere, and

similar. After working with Open Hotelier

experienced in the Maldives and I was able

I knew you have to work not just hard but

for two years, I had to leave them. During

to learn a lot from her. I think this is the

smart in order to succeed and to keep

this period, I just took a chance and applied

place that lead me to the role I am in right

developing yourself to reach to the top.

for a marketing post at Outrigger Konotta

now. After Vakkaru Maldives, I went to Joali

You have to be part of the team yet you

Maldives. The DOSM at that time told me

where I was kind of offered a sales position

also have to work on improving yourself on

that they were taking a chance with me as I

but it didn’t work out according to plan.

a daily basis. Through this, I was actually

didn’t have a background in the hospitality

However, I met my current Director of Sales

able to get a royal family booking as well for

industry before. I told her that she won’t

at Vakkaru Maldives and when she started

Vakkaru Maldives. And was able to create a

Honestly, I thought I was going to be a General Manager someday but the more I thought about it, I realized that it wasn’t for me. That I never really had the ambition to be a General Manager. But Sales and Marketing was an area I wanted to pursue and with the personality that I have - it seemed like the right area for me as I am someone who can talk easily and connect with people, which is one of the key things required for a sales professional. This is how I got into Sales & Marketing.

my biggest success so far.

PEOPLE

17

name for myself amongst the travel agents

sales person you are constantly chasing a

something close to it and believe in yourself

not moving forward and that you are not

which I think is very important in the sales

figure. I believe it will always be like this but

that somewhere along the line you will be

making any progress, but keep in mind

industry.

that is what makes us who we are and how

able to if you work hard enough. It might

that growth is something that happens over

people would measure the performance of

take some time yes, but as long as you keep

time. Hence, always keep going forward till

striving forward, you can expect to see you find your groove. You will always be a What are some of the challenges a sales professional. yourself in the position you hoped to be in work in progress and consistency is key. that you have faced in your career Good things come to those who go out and or even a better one.

Even though this is the biggest challenge for so far? earn it, Everyday!

The biggest challenge for me was to start in

any sales person, it is also the area which

the industry, finding the opportunities can

promises an extensive growth over a short

My biggest advice for young adults or

be quite tricky as employers mostly look

period of time. Other than that, I found it

anyone interested to enter this field would

for someone who is very experienced. I’m

quite difficult to maintain a busy schedule,

be to have a clear mindset on their goals

not sure how they expect to find someone

especially if you have business trips lined

and expectations. To never be afraid to ask

who fit this criteria if they are unwilling to

up you have to prepare early on and ensure

for what you deserve because if you feel like

give a chance for new entrants. For me, the

all the reports and necessary details are

you deserve a promotion, you have to go

biggest challenge was my first hospitality

covered after the trip.

and ask for it. No one will come and hand it over to you, just because you have been

sales and marketing job. At the beginning,

What would you advise young working hard for it. The worst thing that can a bit tough as everyone in your team sort adults who wish to pursue a career happen is getting a big fat no. of relies on you to meet the targets and in this field? meeting the sales targets and goals were

expand the business opportunities. Mostly

because this is the main area where you make revenue for the company, and as a

One thing would be, to never stop looking

The second thing is to never settle for

for exactly what you want. If you are unable

something that you think isn’t for you.

to grasp that first opportunity, take on

Some days it’s going to feel like that you’re

K AG I MALDIVES SPA ISLAND

veligandu Island Resort & Spa MAL DIV ES

PEOPLE 19

RIAAN SINCLAIR DREVER My name is Riaan Sinclair Drever, I am

at various locations, before heading home

South African born, working in the Maldives

and ultimately moving overseas to grow my

since 2012, with a break in 2015/2016 to

experience and career further.

head up our Centara resort in Bentota, Sri

What are some of your notable this industry, especially the top end and successes?

Lanka. For me, it’s been about passion for

resort environment of Maldives. I have been

Honestly, I feel with the early on experience

working abroad for some time in countries

and great, yet tough mentors, I have been

such as South Africa, USA, Zanzibar, Sri

able to understand how important the

Lanka, Saudi Arabia and the Maldives.

human element is within our industry. We interact with so many different personalities

How did you get started with your from all walks of life, so you have to be career? very open-minded when trying to deliver My parents allowed me to start studying

superior service and experience for both

and working in the industry from a young

guest and your team. In my opinion, guiding

age by attending a boarding school which

my teams with this experience has made for

specialized in Hotel and Catering at High

smoother operations in areas and countries

School level, all while living at a Boutique

where others have found it a challenge to

Hotel where I was helping out while still in

work.

school as part of my boarding arrangement.

What are some of the challenges industry from a luxury perspective, not that you have faced?

It gave me a great introduction to the to mention making me more mature and

Working in new environments, remote

then, of course, it was an invaluable boost

destinations and doing openings certainly

to my career as I finished high school

comes with some exciting times and you

certified and well on my way to climb the

learn how to deal with those as you progress

ranks. After school, I did my internship in

in your career. The wonderful thing about

Johannesburg with the Protea Hotel group

this industry is that you don’t have to have a

and this was followed with time in America

fancy degree to work and learn.

What would you advice young in order to understand the operations adults who wish to pursue a career and every element well before you can successfully lead your teams, so don’t in the hospitality industry?

Use the energy you have when you younger

discredit the early years, but use your

to push as much and as far as you can,

energy wisely than to learn as much as

because in this industry you have to have

possible.

a passion since the hours are long and the pressure can get to you if you not fully committed. You have to climb the ranks

KURUMBA MALDIVES APPOINTS ANDREW JANSSON AS NEW GENERAL MANAGER Kurumba Maldives has appointed Andrew

Degree from Endicott College, Boston, MA.

Jansson as their new General Manager,

Asked about his recent return, Andrew says,

effective September 1st, 2019. In his new

“Coming back to the Maldives feels like

role, Andrew will be responsible for the

coming home. The Maldives holds a special

entire operation of the property and its

place in my heart, and it is an honour to be

continued strategic development.

back at the helm of the first resort ever in the country. Kurumba is a unique property,

Andrew’s hospitality career has taken him

with a remarkable history and recognition,

across the globe, starting in his home

and I look forward to being a part of future

country of Sweden, spanning 4 continents

milestones for the resort.”

and 14 countries. He is no stranger to the Maldives, having opened Shangri-la’s

Kurumba Maldives is set on a tropical

Villingili Resort & Spa as Director of Food

island in the North Male Atoll, conveniently

& Beverage back in 2009, and on his last

located a brief 10-minute speedboat ride

assignment in the Maldives, spent 3 years

away from the airport and Male’ city. Dotted

at One&Only Reethi Rah, where he was

with coconut trees that are the island’s

the Resort Manager. He is a graduate of

namesake, Kurumba was the first private

Les Roches Hotel Management School in

island resort in The Maldives opened in

Bluche, Switzerland, and holds a Bachelor’s

1972.

20 PEOPLE

HUSSAIN ‘SENDI’ RASHEED INDUCTED TO INTERNATIONAL SCUBA DIVING HALL OF FAME 2019 Hussain ‘Sendi’ Rasheed has been inducted

a key figure in the region’s developing

to International Scuba Diving Hall of Fame

regulations surrounding marine health and

2019 at the Cayman Islands.

diving tourism. Along with his extensive lobbying of all marine protected species and

Each year, the Cayman Islands welcomes

dive sites in the Maldives, Sendi received

new inductees as part of its ongoing

international media attention for organizing

support of the International Scuba Diving

an underwater Cabinet Meeting, chaired by

Hall of Fame (ISDHF). Established by the

the President of the Republic of Maldives,

Cayman Islands Ministry of Tourism in

to bring attention to the threat of global

2000, the ISDHF celebrates those who have

warming.

contributed positively to the success of recreational scuba diving worldwide through

Sendi’s 37-year career shows his deep

innovation and advancements made in

love of the ocean that he actively works

the areas of dive tourism, equipment

to protect, as well as the impact of his

design, dive safety, education, exploration,

educational efforts that have produced a

adventure, innovation and more.

continuing stream of savvy Maldivian Ocean Ambassadors. In recognition of his ongoing

Known as “the Godfather of the Maldivian

dedication and many efforts on behalf of

diving industry,” Hussain “Sendi” Rasheed

diving and the marine environment, Sendi

was the first PADI Instructor Trainer in the

has also received both the Maldive Tourism

Republic of Maldives and has since become

Award and the Presidential Award.

KURUMBA MALDIVES APPOINTS YOUNG MALDIVIAN ISMAIL ISHAM AS HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER Kurumba Maldives has appointed a very

Isham started his career in the Bank of

young and dynamic Maldivian, Ismail Isham

Maldives. His professional career in the

as their Human Resources Manager.

hospitality industry started in 2013 when

Kurumba Maldives, being one of the

he joined One & Only Reethi Rah where

pioneering resorts in the Maldives, towards

he worked for four years. In 2017, Isham

their dedication in further excelling in the

joined

hospitality industry has appointed a young

Maldives) as an Assistant Human Resource

and dynamic Maldivian, Ismail Isham as

Manager and successfully managed to bring

their Human Resource Manager.

about constructive changes to their Human

the

Universal

Resorts

(Dhigali

Resource Department.

Isham

completed

his

post-graduation,

Masters in Business Administration from

His hard work and dedication have today

Angela Ruskin University in 2018. Having

paved the way to the opportunity to play

worked in the hospitality industry as an

a leading key role as the Human Resource

HR professional for the past six years,

Manager in Kurumba Maldives.

Isham has acquired much knowledge

Isham is a true inspiration for the young

and experience and hence continues to

local talent and the youth of the Maldives

contribute the knowledge he gathered in

who wish to develop themselves as future

his present designation. He has formerly

leaders of this industry.

worked in One & Only Reethi Rah and Dhigali Maldives.

AVIATION

21

MALDIVIAN TO START DIRECT FLIGHTS TO CHINA Maldivian is set to start direct flights from

flights to China.

Maldives to China. The announcement was made at a ceremony held in Xiang, China.

According to Maldivian, as they get the new

The ceremony was joined by Minister

Airbuses they will be working to have direct

of Transport and Civil Aviation Aishath

flights from Gan to China.

Nahula, Maldives Ambassador to China Aishath Azeema and, the Managing Director

Maldivian has ordered for 2 Airbuses of

of Island Aviation Mohamed Rizvi.

A330 and is expecting to receive it in the coming 6 months.

Moreover, over 700 tour operators and senior officials of the tourism bureau of

Currently, China is the biggest tourist

Xiang attended the ceremony.

market to the Maldives and 172,834 tourist arrived from china to the Maldives in the

Speaking at the ceremony Rizvi said that

first six months of 2019.

they will use the Airbus A330 for direct

HONG KONG AIRLINES TO FLY TO THE MALDIVES FOUR TIMES WEEKLY FROM DEC 2019 Hong Kong Airlines from December 2019

With an immersive range of in-flight

intends to increase service to The Maldives,

entertainment

which would see the addition of 4th weekly

gourmet meals in the air, Hong Kong

Hong Kong – Male route. The proposed new

Airlines delivers an unforgettable flight

flight is scheduled on Saturdays from 07th

experience to customers.

options

and

splendid

December 2019, although the new flight is not open for reservation.

Established in 2006, Hong Kong Airlines is a full-service airline firmly rooted in

The airline, which initially started operations

Hong Kong. The airline operates an all-

with chartered services between Hong Kong

Airbus fleet, comprising of 31 passenger

and Male in 2011, began scheduled flights

aircraft and four freighters and boasts an

to the Maldives on January 16 2018, with

international network covering nearly 40

a three-time weekly service. Flights depart

destinations across the Asia Pacific and

from Hong Kong International Airport to the

North America. Hong Kong Airlines has

Maldives’ main Velana International Airport

been awarded the internationally acclaimed

every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday.

four-star rating from Skytrax since 2011.

The airline operates its Airbus A330-300

It was also the winner for Asia’s Leading

aircraft between Hong Kong and Velana

Inflight Service in World Travel Awards

International Airport in the Maldives.

2015.

22 AVIATION

THE WAIT IS OVER! THE FIRST MANTA SEAPLANE IS HERE! coming fitted with the latest technology

and for the first time in the Maldives, we

Garmin

next-generation

will make the seaplane service reliable

integrated flight deck avionics combined

to all our passengers which will operate

with

G950

on a fixed schedule dedicated to on-time

equipment includes dual-core modern

performance. And we want to keep pushing

processing power, providing the crew with

these boundaries and to keep improving our

immediate access to flight plan data and

service. Our customers will have guaranteed

weather radar information.

seats the moment the booking is confirmed

G950

weather

NXi radar.

Garmin

with exact flight timings, thus removing all “At Manta Air, we strive to provide the best

uncertainties for passengers travelling to

service to our customers. We believe there

their destinations on seaplanes.”

is a need to invest in the latest technology

Manta Air, the five-star experience in the

November.

The arrival of Manta Air has already

navigation systems to make our service as

been a game-changer in the domestic

customer-centric as possible. This is why

aviation industry, removing the fears of

we invested in G950 and the latest aviation

flight uncertainty for passengers flying in

software. This upgrade removes 100s feet

the Maldives, and setting new standards

of cable from the cockpit and makes the

in service excellence along the way with

aircraft lighter, reduces maintenance costs

pre-published schedules and a tailored

and provides our crews with enhanced

approach to provide an amazing experience

capabilities

to all passengers.

to

increase

the

dispatch

reliability of our service” said Edward, COO

skies of the Maldives, welcomed its first seaplane.

and not rely on the obsolete legacy

Manta

Air

officials

highlighted

that

of Manta Air.

“The overwhelming support of the public has been a driving force for us. And we

its seaplane operations will set a new The DHC-6 Twin Otter which arrived

benchmark

service

Ahmed Maumoon, CMO of Manta Air said

would like to assure everyone that we

today is the first of ten seaplanes Manta

standards in the Maldives as it follows the

“Our aim from day one has always been

would keep on expanding our services so

Air is bringing in as it prepares to start it’s

high standards already set by the Manta

to make a significant difference in how

that everyone can enjoy their tropical way

seaplane operations, with the next aircraft

Air’s domestic ATR operations.

our customers experience air travel in the

to fly!”, said Maumoon

for

the

seaplane

Maldives. We will be starting with a fixed

due to arrive on 10th October. Manta Air plans to start the first seaplane flights in

All of Manta Air’s DHC-6 Twin Otters are

VELANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT WELCOMES SINGAPORE AIRLINES FIRST B787-10 DREAMLINER

schedule, advanced booking capabilities

Singapore Airlines first Dreamliner B787-

Singapore Airlines first B787-10 Dreamliner

10 aircraft landed yesterday at Velana

and a ceremony was held at the Maamehi

International Airport(VIA).

Executive lounge to celebrate the arrival of this magnificent aircraft. The Singapore

The aircraft’s configuration includes 36

Airlines cabin crew was presented garlands

Business Class seats and 301 Economy

at the lounge and corporate gifts were

class seats. Dreamliner aircraft are the

exchanged between Singapore Airlines and

most fuel-efficient aircraft which can fly up

Maldives Airports Company Ltd.

to 8000 nautical miles non-stop.

On the evening of March 28, 1984, amidst

The ceremony was attended by Chief Guest,

a backdrop of glamour and anticipation,

Maldives Marketing and PR Corporation’s

an inaugural B747 landed to then Male’

Managing Director Mr. Thoyyib Mohamed,

International Airport. Since then on, for the

Acting Managing Director of Maldives

past 35 years, Singapore Airlines has been

Airports Company Ltd (MACL) Mr. Moosa

crossing Asia from the Maldives to Europe

Solih, Chief Executive of Maldives Civil

and most places in between.

Aviation Authority Mr. Hussain Jaleel and Singapore Airlines General Manager Mr.

Today, as the world’s leading and respected

Ahmad Zuhri. The ceremony was also

travel Brands, Singapore Airlines offer the

attended by staff of MACL and Singapore

most extensive choice of journeys across

Airline’s ground staff.

the region. Between Singapore Airlines and Silk Air 18 flights per week is scheduled from Singapore to the Maldives.

A water salute was given to welcome

AVIATION 23

QATAR AIRWAYS WINS ‘BEST AIRLINE’, THREE OTHER AWARDS AT BUSINESS TRAVELLER AWARDS

Qatar Airways has been named ‘Best

Business Traveller readers are invited to

It also collected ‘Best Airline in the Middle

Hamad International Airport, to more than

Airline’ at the prestigious 2019 Business

vote for the awards, which are then further

East’, ‘World’s Best Business Class’ and

160 destinations worldwide. The airline has

Traveller Awards, held on Monday at

authenticated by an independent auditing

‘Best Business Class Seat’, in recognition

recently launched an array of exciting new

London’s Royal Garden Hotel in front of

company. The awards were collected from

of its ground-breaking Business Class

destinations, including Rabat, Morocco;

250 industry leaders. In addition to being

the host, BBC News journalist John Pienaar,

experience, Qsuite. Qatar Airways is the

Izmir, Turkey; Malta; Davao, Philippines;

voted ‘Best Airline’ by readers of Business

on behalf of Qatar Airways by the airline’s

only airline to have been awarded the

Lisbon, Portugal; and Mogadishu, Somalia.

Traveller, the airline was also awarded ‘Best

European Senior Vice-President Sylvain

coveted “Skytrax Airline of the Year” title,

The airline will add Langkawi, Malaysia

Long-Haul Airline’, ‘Best Business Class’

Bosc and the UK and Ireland Country

which is recognised as the pinnacle of

to its extensive route network later this

and ‘Best Middle Eastern Airline’.

Manager Gary Kershaw.

excellence in the airline industry, five times.

month; with Gaborone, Botswana; Luanda,

Airline alliance ‘Oneworld’, of which Qatar

Angola and Osaka, Japan set to follow over the next few months.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive,

The haul is the latest in a string of awards

Airways has been a member since 2013,

Akbar Al Baker, said: “To be recognised

successes for Qatar Airways, as the airline

once again won the ‘Best Airline Alliance’

once again by the readers of Business

was also named ‘World’s Best Airline’ by

award, confirming its position as the world’s

Traveller with these prestigious awards is

the 2019 World Airline Awards, managed

premier global airline alliance.

a huge honour for Qatar Airways and an

by

appreciation of our promise to consistently

organisation Skytrax.

international

air

transport

rating

deliver a truly world-class service.”

fleet of more than 250 aircraft via its hub,

MALDIVES SIGNS AIR TRAVEL AGREEMENT WITH BAHRAIN The Government of Maldives and the

on behalf of the Government of Bahrain.

Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain

Bahrain’s national airline, Gulf Air has

has signed an Air Services Agreement to

requested for approval to begin operation

facilitate air transport services between the

to the Maldives. The airline will begin flights

two countries.

between the two countries on October 28 this year, with six weekly flights operating

In a ceremony that was held at the sideline of

via Male’-Bahrain and Male’-Colombo-

the International Civil Aviation Organization

Bahrain route.

(ICAO) 40th Assembly in Montreal Canada, Minister of Transport and Civil

With the new agreement between Maldives

Aviation, Mrs Aishath Nahula signed the

and Bahrain, Maldives has now established

Agreement on behalf of the Government

air travel agreements with 47 countries.

of Maldives, and Mr. Kamal bin Ahmed

Under the agreements, 29 airlines from 21

Mohammed - Minister of Transportation

countries operate to the Maldives.

and Telecommunication of Bahrain signed

Qatar Airways currently operates a modern

24 AVIATION

SRI LANKAN AIRLINES WINS TWO PRESTIGIOUS TITLES AT THE SOUTH ASIAN TRAVEL AWARDS 2019 SriLankan Airlines, the National Carrier of

Over 500 travel and tourism businesses

Sri Lanka and a member of the Oneworld

operating in the South Asian region were

alliance were awarded two prestigious

nominated for this year’s edition of the

titles at the South Asian Travel Awards

awards. Voting for the nominees closed

2019 for “Leading International Airline”

in July, whilst nominee evaluations were

and “Leading Airline Passenger Class -

conducted by a four-member jury in major

Business” under visitors choice category.

cities in the region, including Colombo,

The two awards were collected by Sujeewa

Bangalore, New Delhi, Kathmandu and

Rodrigo, SriLankan Airlines Manager for

Dhaka.

the Maldives.

Partners of the fourth edition of SATA Launched in 2016 by Maldives premier

include:

event management company Highrise,

(Platinum Partner), Amari Galle (Official

SATA is the first-ever regional travel awards

Host), The Hawks Pvt. Ltd. (Gold Partner),

endorsed by multi-national associations,

Dhivehi

providing the tourism sector of the South

Insurance Partner), Life.lk (Silver Partner),

Asian region with recognition towards their

Ad Solutions Digital Communications (Silver

facilities and service excellence. It aims to

Partner), Sole Asia.com (Silver Partner) and

encourage and raise service standards in

Ramada Colombo (Hospitality Partner).

Velana

Insurance

International

Company

Airport

(Official

the region’s tourism industry.

SINGAPORE AIRLINES TOPS THE WORLD’S BEST FIRST CLASS AIRLINES FOR THE SECOND YEAR While Air France got the third place as

The seventh-best first-class airline in

the best first-class airline, their intimate

the world, ANA All Nippon Airways gives

La Première cabins of the first-class give

travellers entertainment in luxury with

passengers services in four private suites.

32-inch widescreen monitors and extra

The cuisines are sophisticated, on flights

generous storage space along with the

departing

best comfort and privacy within ANA’s self-

from

Paris,

menus

feature

signature dishes created in homage to Joël

contained square shell seats.

Robuchon.

Swiss International Air Lines won the Etihad Airways was awarded the fourth-

eighth place on the list with their exclusive

best first-class airlines offers intimate space

offerings that include Zimmerli pyjamas

for relaxing inspired by boutique hotels.

and La Prairie products packed in a Bally bag. Free internet access is also a first-class

Though Qatar Airways was awarded fifth in

perk for passengers.

best first-class airlines, they were recently

The airline reviews and ranking site Skytrax

the world.

reveals the best first-class airlines for the year 2019. Singapore Airlines tops the list

Lufthansa, the largest German airlines

as the world’s best first-class airline by

earned the 2nd spot in the list. The airline

customers for a second year.

provides first-class passengers’ services such as chauffeured limousines, valet

The airline’s extra-wide seats with private

parking and personal assistants at the

space and mood lighting along with meals

airport to assist with tiresome check-in

created by notable chefs that assures the

procedures. Onboard the passengers can

customers ultra-luxury and landed them

relax in their personal space and experience

the spot for the best first-class airlines in

excellent comfort.

awarded the worlds best airline for the fifth

Qantas Airways, the ninth-best first-class

time. The award-winning cabin crew serves

airlines provides a spa treatment before

the passengers in private sanctuary kitted

take-off, seasonal menus by Neil Perry and

out with designer sleepsuits, Frette linen

a First Suite complete with Sheridan linen

and ultra-comfortable lie-flat beds.

and a bedding-down service to relax.

Emirates

shower/spa

Oman Air landed the tenth place on the list.

and stylish lounge bars on A380 first-

With just six seats in the first-class cabin,

class cabins offer utter luxury. They are

guests get to enjoy ultimate exclusivity

described as being as close as it comes to

complemented by inflight premium dining

having a private jet and are awarded as the

and inflight connectivity.

offers

onboard

sixth-best first-class airline of 2019.

TRAVEL TECH 25

KUREDU INTRODUCES ITS NEW MOBILE APPLICATION & MY.KUREDU.COM Kuredu Island Resort launched ‘my.kuredu.

in and create their own itineraries.

com’ and its new mobile application for iOS and Android users.

The resort also offers an alternative web browser platform ‘my.kuredu.com’ which

The mobile application is offered for its

contains all the same information as the

guests to give them the chance to find

mobile apps.

out more about the extensive range of experiences,

activities

and

adventures

Kuredu Island Resort & Spa is a beachfront

which they can enjoy at the resort and to

property located in Kuredu in the Lhaviyani

also give the guests an opportunity to start

Atoll Region. Accessible by a 35-minute

pre-planning and pre-booking any activity

scenic

vthey desire. The application has made it

International Airport, this 4.5-star resort

possible to start building individual itinerary

has 383 rooms, including beach and water

of things to while holidaying at Kuredu,

villas, making it the second-largest resort in

starting from the reservation confirmation

the Maldives.

seaplane

flight

from

Velana

at the resort. The guests have to simply log

WE FUEL UP YOUR BUSINESS IN THE MALDIVES FUEL SUPPLY AND BUNKERING SERVICES Directly imported | Certif ied products | 12 owned vessels | Supply to any Atoll | 30,000,000 ltrs Fuel Storage

THE HAWKS PVT LTD | ZONERIYA, 7TH FLOOR, BODUTHAKARUFAANU MAGU, MALE, 20026, REPUBLIC OF MALDIVES T: +960 334 0949 | F: +960 334 4949 | INFO@THEHAWKS.BIZ | WWW.THEHAWKS.BIZ

26 TRAVEL TECH

BANDOS MALDIVES INTRODUCE ITS OWN STICKER PACK FOR VIBER Bandos Maldives has introduced its own

the gym @Clubhouse’ and ‘karaoke @

sticker pack for Viber.

Sandbar’. They also have ‘Relax, Renew & Revive “ Orchid Spa’ and ‘gonna go scuba

The sticker pack shows a female portraying

dive with dive Bandos’ sticker.

different vacation activities guests can enjoy at Bandos Maldives. The sticker

The Bandos Maldives Viber stickers are

pack features ‘Love Bandos Maldives’,

available free of charge across all platforms

‘Vacation at Bandos Maldives’ sticker. It

and can be downloadable from the Viber

includes stickers from ‘watching the sun@

Sticker Market or by visiting: shorturl.at/

Huvan’ and ‘sipping a cocktail@Huvan’ to

ikJM8

‘watching dolphins @sunset cruise’, ‘hitting

SUN’S OUT, GUNS OUT: EXPLORE THE MALDIVES IN STEALTH VIDEO GAME HITMAN 2

Summer might be on the way out, but Agent

Xbox One. It is the seventh entry in the

world’s “premier reputation management

and unique items” and a “stylish new suit”),

47 will be enjoying a bout of sun, sea, sand,

Hitman video game series and is the sequel

service”.

plus seven new Trophies and Achievements.

and sneaky stealth slaughter next week,

to the 2016 game Hitman.

with the arrival of Hitman 2’s latest - and

Hitman 2’s Haven Island DLC concludes Alongside the location itself, Hitman’s

the game’s expansion pass and will be

final - DLC sandbox location, the Maldives

According to developer IO Interactive’s

Maldives DLC will feature a new campaign

available on PC, Xbox One, and PS4 from

resort of Haven Island.

latest blog post, Agent 47 will, following

mission, The Last Resort, which sets

Tuesday, 24th September. For those players

recent events at the Milton-Fitzpatrick bank

players the task of eliminating three targets

that don’t want to splash out £32-ish

Hitman 2 is a stealth video game developed

in New York, be soaking up the tropical heat

before making their escape. It also brings

(depending on where you buy it) for Hitman

by IO Interactive and published by Warner

in disguise as a guest at the privately owned

full Contracts Mode support, over 75 new

2’s expansion pass, Haven Island will, if past

Bros.

for

resort - apparently also the headquarters

challenges, 20 levels of Location Mastery,

releases are any indication, be available on

Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, and

of an organisation known as Haven, the

five new Location Master unlocks (four “new

its own for around £10.

Interactive

Entertainment

AWARDS/ LISTINGS 27

NALADHU PRIVATE ISLAND RANKED BEST RESORT IN THE INDIAN OCEAN & 9TH BEST RESORT IN THE WORLD Naladhu Private Island Maldives has been

provides a level of privacy and personal

ranked No.1 among ‘Top 30 Resorts in The

attention impressive even in the Maldives.

Indian Ocean’ and 9th as ‘The Best Resorts

Weathered-wood accommodations come

in the World’ by CN Traveller - The website

with a private garden and an infinity

of Condé Nast Traveller Magazine.

pool, high-ceilinged interiors decorated in cane and tropical hues, and an open-

This is the 3rd consecutive year for Naladhu

air bathroom with L’Occitane products

Private Island to win the best resort in the

and a sea-facing tub for two. The Living

Indian Ocean.

Room’s dining spaces range from tables set around the all-glass wine cellar to

For their 32nd Condé Nast Traveler annual

cushioned Indian daybeds under the stars,

Readers’ Choice Awards survey, with a

and a fleet of dhonis adds onboard private

record-breaking 600,000 registered votes,

dinners. Dedicated butlers, or VGCs (very

10,000 hotels, resorts and destination spas

good chaps), exceed expectations with

were rated, with 15 per cent making the

quiet, smiling service. With a location only

final cut.

a 30-minute speedboat ride from Malé’s international airport, Naladhu represents

KUDADOO MALDIVES AMONG THE BEST-DESIGNED HOTELS IN THE WORLD Kudadoo Maldives Private Island listed in

tropical nation.

the hospitality architecture category at the prestigious Dezeen Awards 2019.

All villas are located 10-20 meters away from the reef edge of one of the Maldives

The resort opened on December 2018,

most healthy and vibrant coral reefs. The

consists of 15 Zen-style villas circling the

exteriors of the villas are crafted out of

island’s periphery like a diadem, providing

cedarwood where oil built into the wood

uninterrupted views of the Arabian Sea’s

gives it an elegant silver-grey tone over time.

horizon. Dining, spa visits, and other

The roof of the retreat is pitched at an angle

activities happen in the solar-powered

to allow rainwater to slide, and each solar

resort nerve centre area known as The

panel is built into the design. The architect

Retreat. Kudadoo is also the first fully

is most proud of the way he designed the

sustainable resort in the Maldives.

interiors of the airy 3,000-square-foot villas where natural breezes sweep through

Architect Yuji Yamazaki, who was selected

them, making air-conditioning superfluous.

by the owner to design and build the

Kudadoo

resort, “wanted something that has not

Hurawalhi is managed by Bradley Calder as

been done before.” With a sustainable

part of Crown & Champa Resorts collection.

mindset, Kudadoo Maldives is scattered

The resort can be booked entirely for

with local plants to preserve the ecology.

exclusive use from $80,000 – $140,000 per

“Architecturally, we wanted something

night depending on the season, alternatively

modern but not overly designed,” said

residences can also be booked from $3,800

Yamazaki of his fourth project in the

per night.

Maldives

Private

Island

by

With only 19 expansive guest quarters in

the Maldives’ most convenient exclusive

South Malé Atoll, Naladhu Private Island

destination yet.

28 AWARDS/LISTINGS

WALDORF ASTORIA MALDIVES ITHAAFUSHI AMONG THE BEST NEW HOTELS IN ASIA-PACIFIC

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi has

center, chef, and concierge team) in the

been listed among the Luxe List 2019: Best

South Male Atoll. The 122-villa hotel has

New Hotels in Asia-Pacific.

no less than 11 drinking and dining options,

Diversions are dominated by the resort’s

including a series of tree-top dining pods,

abundant marine life, though relaxing

The bigger, the better — that seemed to

contemporary Chinese restaurant Li Long

in your villa’s infinity pool will be just as

For the 16th installment of DestinAsian’s

be the MO for Hilton’s Waldorf Astoria

(which delivers crisp Peking duck straight

tempting. At sunset, take a stroll along

annual Luxe List, 38 properties were listed

brand as it joins the recent flurry of luxury

from a traditional wood-fired oven), and The

the sand to the sprawling spa, where the

as the ones to look out for. From a low-

resorts opening their doors in the Maldives.

Ledge by Australian chef Dave Pynt, whose

“wellness concierge” service will devise

slung New Zealand lodge to a Shanghai

Spread across a 3.5-kilometer stretch of

menu of deliciously slow-roasted, grilled,

a personalized itinerary that can include

addition by hotel czar Ian Schrager the list

three islands (one of which is a private

or smoked meat and vegetable dishes lives

anything from caviar-and-algae facials to

picks the best new hotels of 2019.

oasis with its own spa, gym, entertainment

up to the Michelin-starred status of his

beach boot camp. Just be sure to end the

Singapore restaurant Burnt Ends.

day under the twinkling night sky with a Starlight Ocean massage at the seaside spa pavilion.

SONEVA JANI LANDED ON CNN’S INSTAGRAM-PERFECT HOTEL VIEWS LIST 17 of the most breathtaking hotel views

tropical greenery, and surrounded by a 5.6

around the world were included in the

km (3,4 mi) lagoon of crystal clear waters

list. Mandarin Oriental in New York, The

with uninterrupted Indian Ocean views.

Peninsula Paris and Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort in

Soneva Jani was also recognized as

Thailand were also comprised in the list.

the luxury travel expert’s top 10 most

With the popularity of Instagram, world-

Instagrammable hotels in the world last

famous Soneva Jani has become a resort

year.

for luxury travellers because it offers unrivalled photo opportunities. Located

Social media has made a huge impact on

on an uninhabited five-island cluster in the

travel engagement and the use of Instagram

Noonu Atoll, the Maldives’ most exclusive

continues to be a key platform for travellers

and game-changing hotel is fringed by

to share amazing shots of their vacations.

pristine beaches, blanketed with lush

FESTIVITIES 29

OUTRIGGER KONOTTA MALDIVES RESORT ANNOUNCES WONDERFUL FESTIVE ACTIVITIES FOR CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR 2019-20 of course, visit Santa Claus in his grotto on

Festive People: A chance for guests to chill

Christmas Day.

with the festive people who will make it a particularly memorable time of year on

Body & Soul: Guests can choose from

Konotta Island: Matty Wainwright (DJ),

meditation classes, nature walks, aerial

Christopher Long (chef), Bijaya Kumar

yoga, and a full range of pampering options

(yoga and fitness trainer), Reena and

at Navasana Spa, a sanctuary within a

Rashfa (Coral Kids Club supervisors), and

sanctuary.

Santa Claus (no introduction required). A mixologist and sommelier will be joining

For Adults: Live chill-out sessions by the

too.

resident DJ, New Year’s Eve party, spa,

Outrigger

Maldives

“Each year we work with Santa and his elves

sunset cocktail reception with management.

to create festive magic for families and

Mother Nature: Guests can get the

couples who want to unwind in a pristine

Resort

voyage, Indian Ocean night, Asian street

opportunity to join a marine talk with the

beach setting at Christmas,” John Allanson,

festive

food fair, barbecue and Boduberu, sunset

resort’s marine biologist, say hello to a sea

General Manager of the resort said.

programmes organized for Christmas and

seafood and sauvignon, wine academy with

turtle, or give back to nature by joining a

“Outrigger promises a magical experience

New Year 2019-20. These include pristine

a guest sommelier, mezze and Arabic grill,

desert island clean-up and snorkel trip – all

where you can forget the winter cold and

beach discoveries, food and beverage

and more.

activities are part of Outrigger’s OZONE

celebrate in style.”

announces

Konotta

wine, mixology, dining on the beach, and a

overwhelming

spectaculars, fun activities for kids, and plenty of quality relaxation for adults.

global marine conservation commitment.

Active lifestyle: Combat festive excess

The private island of Konotta is located 211

with aqua aerobics, an introduction to

Out of the Ordinary States of Being:

miles (340 kilometres) to the south of Malé.

The activities will be carried out from 19th

paddleboarding, gym fitness lessons, and

Uniquely memorable experiences including

It is conveniently accessible via a 55-minute

December 2019 to 1st January 2020 and

kayaking around the island.

local island excursions, renewal of vows,

flight from Malé to Kaadedhdhoo Airport

sunken beach table dining by candlelight,

followed by a scenic 30-minute luxury

For Kids: Movie nights under the stars,

picnic on a sandbank, cooking classes, or

speedboat journey.

Food & Beverage: Everything from a festive

family sandcastle contests, kids parties,

escaping in a dhoni traditional boat to be a

feast on the 25th to a global gourmet

kite flying, hunting for Christmas bells, and,

desert island castaway for a day.

will fall under eight great festive themes:

FURAVERI MALDIVES LAUNCHES - A ‘MAGICAL FESTIVE’ IN A WORLD OF NATURE 2019/2020

Furaveri Maldives has launched ‘A Magical

-Christmas Eve celebrations with a cocktail

festive in a world of nature 2019/2020’.

party, gala dinner and of course Santa himself!

Would you like a warm and cosy Christmas,

-Exciting offers from our food outlets, water

blanketed under the stars, as the ocean

sports, dive club, and excursions.

carols you dream-like songs of a magical

-A special lucky draw among all our in-

world? This Christmas, Furaveri Maldives

house guests to win a complimentary 5

bring your fantasies to life.

nights stay.

-New Year’s Eve countdown party and gala

Whether it’s getting comfy indoors making

dinner

crafts with the kids, or playing Beach Volley out in the sun or discovering the boundless

“At Furaveri Maldives, we’re already getting

pleasures of nature this tropical marvel has

in the festive spirit. We cannot wait to

to offer, the resort has got you covered.

make yours just as memorable.” the resort

Think

announced.’

starry

nights

and

exhilarating

moments, hidden trails and fun games; all in the embrace of an astounding world of

Located in the exotic Raa Atoll in the north-

nature, just waiting to be explored.

central region of the unique Maldives archipelago, Furaveri Island Resort and Spa

Highlights for it’s festive/season include:

is set on the 23 hectare island of Furaveri,

-Kids Club activities planned in the true

which is a gem on an island with beautiful

spirit of the holidays

lush vegetation surrounded by soft white

-Wellness Village promotions with exclusive

sandy beach and crystal clear waters, a

packages for couples and family

turquoise lagoon and a vibrant coral reef.

30 FESTIVITIES

EYDHAFUSHI HOSTS THE SECOND BAA ATOLL MANTA FESTIVAL

megafauna species. BAEC received a

love with our environment and made them

standing ovation following an emotional

realise the crucial role they can play in their

performance focused on the threats of

community! Most importantly, this was an

fishing on manta rays. Thulhaadhoo took

opportunity for our students to explore,

home the second prize whilst K. Dhiffushi

learn and a golden chance to show their

won third place following a performance

creativity and love towards nature. I loved

packed with creative costumes.

every bit of it! Glad to be part of this amazing event.”

In the month leading up to the festival, 200 students of ten schools from Baa and Raa

The festival concluded with an energetic

Atoll were taken snorkelling with manta

prize-giving ceremony and an air of

rays by partner resorts and the Biosphere

anticipation and excitement for the next

Reserve team. Students spent an hour

event.

inside the World-renowned Hanifaru Bay, snorkelling with up to fifty of these gentle

The festival was generously sponsored by

giants. The trips built on the event’s aim to

15 resorts: Four Seasons, Vakkaru, Ocean

inspire young Maldivians to become ocean

Dimensions at Kihaa, Anantara Kihavah,

advocates and engage more with water-

Nautilus, Reethi Faru, Milaidhoo, Sea-

based

snorkelling

Explorer and Reethi Beach, Finolhu, Amilla

equipment funded by donations from last

Fushi, Dusit Thani and Ocean Group,

year’s festival.

Westin Maldives, Euro-Divers Maldives and

activities,

featuring

Meeru Island Resort, and Soneva Fushi.

The

second

Maldives

Festival

marine conservation-themed games and

took place on B. Eydhafushi from 20-

goodies from NGOs including the Olive Ridley

21st September 2019 and was a booming

Project, the Maldives Whale Shark Research

success. The Baa Atoll Manta Festival,

Program, Atoll Marine Centre, Zero Waste

collaboratively

Manta

Maldives and BeLeaf. Visitors engaged in

Trust, the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere

competitions offering sustainable prizes,

Reserve,

Centre

printed their own personalised reusable

(BAEC), Baa Atoll and Eydhafushi Island

bag and shopped from Malé businesses

Councils,

Landaa

including Island Bazaar, Oevaali Art shop

Giraavaru, engaged over 50 businesses

and Pepper Dots. Manta Trust offered the

and environmental organisations. Dozens

unique opportunity to swim with manta

of stalls and activities featured educational

rays in virtual reality whilst Maldives Post

games designed to excite 320 participating

offered the international crowd the chance

students from thirteen schools about

to send manta-themed postcards home.

Baa and

Manta

spearheaded Atoll

by

Education

Four

Seasons

marine conservation.

Despite The

memorable

opening

ceremony

unfavourable

affected

weather

snorkelling-based

which

activities,

featured a welcome dance by students of

students were able to engage in a wide

Manta Trust’s Moodhu Madharusaa Marine

range of educational events at the school.

Education Program from BAEC, dancing

Saturday 21st September saw the students

to the theme song ‘Hanifaru Bay’, written

getting involved in a waste segregation

by Abdulla Muaz. Inspirational speeches

session for World Coastal Clean-up Day,

were given by Baa Atoll Council President

hosted by BAEC, Soneva Fushi, Parley and

Mr

Environmental

Manta Trust. Students from thirteen islands

Protection Agency (EPA) Director General

bought jumbo bags of beach clean-up waste

Ibrahim Naeem, Minister of State for

to the event and engaged in a hands-on

Environment Dr Abdulla Naseer and Chief

session to learn how to properly separate

Guest Vice President Faisal Naseem. Mr

recyclables.

Mabrook

Naseer,

Naseem highlighted the sacrifices the community has made to be a part of the

A live art competition saw exciting prizes

Biosphere Reserve and the importance of

awarded to paintings which creatively

continuing to protect the Maldives’ precious

highlighted the plight of the ocean, with

environment, including the World’s largest

the adult category winner receiving return

recorded population of reef manta rays

flights from festival Airline Partner, Manta

(Mobula alfredi).

Air. Saturday afternoon brought the school drama competition, with each performance

Thirty stalls open to the public featured

centred around a different charismatic

For Ifaasha Abdul Raheem, the festivals

Festivities were covered by Media Partner

school coordinator, the experience was

PSM and Online Media Partner Eydhafushi

memorable: “This has been one the best

Times. 260 visiting students were hosted

experiences in my life! Manta festival has

overnight by Baa Atoll Education Centre,

not only boosted my love for nature, but it

whilst guests reached Eydhafushi with

also has made me a better person in every

support from Travel Partner MTCC and

possible way. This festival has brought an

Airline Partner Manta Air.

immense impact on our youth to fall in

ACCOMMODATION

31

CONRAD MALDIVES RANGALI ISLAND LAUNCHES ECOINITIATIVES FOR A GREENER FUTURE Conrad

Maldives

Rangali

Island

has

embarked on an “eco-journey” for a

Bag. Each tote bag is made of roughly five recycled plastic bottles.

greener future.

The resort is also using art as a way to Sustainability

and

environmental

inspire its guests toward sustainability

consciousness is a growing trend in the

where they commissioned Melvin to create

tourism industry and Conrad Maldives

an art installation representing the goal of

Rangali Island is the latest to join this

reducing plastic pollution among guests.

trend to preserve the natural beauty of

The art, created with 5,500 plastic bottles

the Maldives for future generations. The

and held together by coir rope and steel

resort informs that through working with

cable, resembles a jellyfish and serves as

leading environmental organization and

a visual reminder of the importance of

collaboration network, Parley For The

combating climate change.

Oceans and artist, John K. Melvin they are committed to the ban of single-use plastics

“With a mindful approach to travel, Conrad

and will soon offer Parley products.

Maldives Rangali Island continues to inspire change,” said Stefano Ruzza, the General as well as in their daily life at home.”

pollution. This investment in the future of

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island began

Manager at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island.

to work with Parley for the Oceans late

“Through

summer 2019, which initially started by

likeminded brands and the development

The resort has also pledged to eliminate

resort’s new guest programming, which

giving each guest a Parley Kit upon arrival.

of unique and educational experiences on

the use of plastic on the property by

includes such eco-activities as beach clean-

Each kit contained a reusable stainless

and off property, we encourage our guests

January 2020 with either glass or reusable

ups on neighbouring islands and a coral

steel 0.7-litre Conrad x Parley co-branded

to become part of the solution as they

material towards efforts to being committed

reef regeneration initiative with the resort’s

water bottle and a Parley Ocean Plastic Tote

reinforce a positive impact while travelling

to the Parley AIR strategy to end plastic

own marine biologists.

creative

collaborations

the environment is complemented by the

with

32

ACCOMMODATION

THE NEW INTERCONTINENTAL MALDIVES MAAMUNAGAU RESORT OPENS WITH BUTLER SERVICE IN EVERY VILLA Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives has

contributes to widespread coral die-offs of

introduced

healthier reefs that links to warmer ocean

reef-safe

sunscreen

and

encouraged the divers and snorkellers to

temperatures and global climate change.

use the reef-safe sunscreen as it protects marine life from the harmful effects.

“This is another step ahead for Grand Park

Kodhipparu

Maldives,

pursuing

This sunscreen helps safeguard coral life

our commitment towards environmental

from two harmful chemicals Oxybenzone

Management System and efforts towards

and Octinoxate. The resort’s resident

Sustainable

marine biologist, Peter Pringle explained

announced gradually, as soon as we lay

that “Many regular sunscreens contain these

down practices and projects in pipeline

two chemicals, which have been shown

enhancing green and eco driven initiatives

in laboratory studies to be highly toxic to

for everyone’s benefit.” Raffaele Solferino

corals and other animals, particularly the

commented, General manager of Grand

young stages that need to replenish marine

Park Kodhipparu Maldives.

Tourism.

More

to

be

populations.”

Located on North Malé Atoll and a Due to their potential toxicity to reefs,

mere 20 minutes by speedboat from

several

and

Velana International Airport, Grand Park

Palau) have recently banned the sale of

Kodhipparu Maldives is a luxurious one-

sunscreens

&

island-one resort destination in the Maldives

Octinoxate. Every year between 6,000 and

featuring a collection of 120 idyllic beach-

14,000 tons of sunscreen washes off into

front pool villas, breathtaking overwater

the sea preventing high levels of associated

villas and spacious two-bedroom villas.

states

(including

containing

Hawaii

Oxybenzone

toxic compounds entering the water which

JUMEIRAH VITTAVELI LAUNCHES FLOATING LUXURY VILLA “MY VITTAVELI” Jumeirah Vittaveli has launched a floating

envisioned that the best way to fully

superyacht villa in the Maldives, “MY

experience the Maldives would be with a

Vittaveli” for the ultimate ocean adventure.

combination of an island stay and a journey

No longer confined to land-based or

across the atolls. It’s irresistible to set sail

stationary accommodation options, guests

and explore the stunning variety of over-

can now live their Robinson Crusoe fantasy

and under-water wonders the Maldives

and explore the hidden treasures of the

offers, and I am proud my team has made it

Maldives with a luxury twist at Jumeirah

possible to offer such a special experience

Vittaveli. It’s the first resort in the Maldives

for our guests.”

where you can start your holiday planning by choosing between a unique selection of

MY Vittaveli is an Azimut superyacht

villas and a brand new superyacht called

that accommodates up to eight guests

“MY Vittaveli” with 85 feet of private space.

for overnight stays or up to 20 guests for

“It has long been my dream to add a

leisurely day-time cruises. Its sophisticated

superyacht to our prime resort villa

exterior design conveys the comfort and

ocean or to enjoy balmy evenings soaking

third guests through a retractable extra

accommodations,” said Amit Majumder,

style experienced when staying on-board,

in the four-person Jacuzzi on the top deck.

bed. All en-suite bathrooms include hydro

Vice

with modern noise suppression technology

Beautifully crafted wood joinery, cherry

sonic massage bathtubs and full-sized

guaranteeing a relaxing journey.

wood panels and Italian marble inlays

Hermes amenities. The superyacht’s swim

decorate the superyacht’s two master

platform allows for comfortable entry and exit for water sports, diving or snorkeling.

President,

Boutique

Resorts,

at

Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts. “Our guests love the resort and its surrounding house reef, as well as close-by snorkel and dive

The three decks invite guests to spend

cabins and two twin cabins, with each twin

spots, but the explorer in me has always

leisurely mornings gazing out at the infinite

cabin offering the option to accommodate

ACCOMMODATION 33

PULLMAN LAUNCHES MOST GENEROUS ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT IN THE MALDIVES

boasts one of the most generous, all-

restoration of the body, mind and soul,

inclusive offers in the Maldives, complete

choose from a selection of signature facials,

with a variety of culinary delights available at

body treatments and massage therapies

six outlets across the island. Options include

available at the resort’s Spa by Phytomer,

Mélange, an all-day dining restaurant; The

which features eight treatment rooms

Hub, a sunken pool bar offering signature

perched over a shallow, white sand lagoon.

drinks and delicious sharing plates; Saffron

Sign up for a local arts and crafts class,

Affair for a sophisticated evening of tapas

marine conservation talk, or enjoy nature

and craft cocktails; and Souq Oven for

trail walks around the island with the

Middle Eastern dishes, for pairing with

resort’s resident marine biologist, or scuba

a wine list featuring over 80 wines from

dive and snorkel in one of the Maldives’

around the world. For something more

largest blue lagoons covering a total area

casual, guests can enjoy healthy café treats

of 1,700 hectares. The surrounding coral

and alchemy experiences at Sol Rising; or

gardens feature a diverse variety of reef

one of the region’s first organic, vegetarian

fish, dolphins, turtles and sharks around

and vegan restaurants, Phat Chameleon,

the resort’s 26 dive sites.

set amidst a vegetable and herb garden. For those on the go, the playful Bites on Wheels

“With our generous all-inclusive offering,

food cart offers refreshing sorbets and light

we look forward to welcoming guests to the

snacks throughout the day.

Pullman Maldives Maamutaa Resort where they can explore the island’s sandy beaches,

Children and teens are well catered for at

nature trails and renowned diving sites while

Playground and Skillz Sports Centre, with

enjoying full wellness and culinary journey,”

a range of entertaining and educational

said John Bendtsen, General Manager of Pullman Maldives Maamutaa Resort.

Set amidst 18 hectares of lush tropical

look forward to welcoming global nomads to

activities including snooker, table tennis,

flora and fauna on the Gaafu Alifu Atoll,

explore the spectacular marine life of Gaafu

various board games and a golf simulator.

Pullman Maldives Maamutaa Resort will

Alifu Atoll and its surrounding diving sites,”

Nature walks, treasure hunts, and outdoor

As

open its doors 25th September 2019. The

said Patrick Basset, Chief Operating Officer

sports are also available for the adventurers

complimentary return transfers valued

all-inclusive resort boasts 122 decadent

of Accor, Upper Southeast & Northeast Asia

at heart to enjoy the natural beauty of the

at $360 USD per person when booking a

villas, including two exclusive Aqua Villas

and the Maldives.

island.

stay of five nights or more, valid from 25th

a

special

opening

offer,

enjoy

September 2019 until 23rd December

featuring bedrooms submerged beneath the turquoise waters for a truly memorable

Featuring a range of over-water and

Pullman’s well-being approach focuses

experience of the region’s marine life up

beachside

Maldives

around the four pillars of Sleep; Sport;

close. The Royal Suite is a resort within

Maamutaa is surrounded by lush vegetation,

Food; and Spa and here it’s all about bringing

Pullman Maldives Maamutaa is located

a resort and provides complete privacy

a natural lake and sun-kissed beaches, plus

guests as close to nature and the outdoors

at Maamutaa Island, Gaafu Alifu Atoll,

and indulgence including a high degree of

one of the region’s largest and deepest

as you can get. Fitness enthusiasts can start

20219, Republic of Maldives. The resort

personalized services.

lagoons. With water temperatures slightly

at the resort’s Fit Trail island jogging track

is accessible by domestic flight 55 minutes

cooler than many other islands, the

with five fitness stations offering a variety of

from Velana International Airport in Malé,

“We are delighted to be shining the spotlight

richness of the marine life and the colours

physical trails, or level up with a complete

followed by a 15-minute speedboat ride

on the Maldives once again with the launch

of the coral are unparalleled. For example,

boot-camp Raaveriya Workout experience

from Kooddoo Airport.

of our fifth Accor property. Pullman

this is the only place where divers can spot

that kick starts with callisthenics followed

Maldives Maamutaa Resort is a stunning

up to 13 species of sharks in the water.

by an invigorating run on the beach and a

addition to the premium segment and we

Guests will never go hungry, as the resort

refreshing swim in the lagoon. For complete

villas,

Pullman

2019.

34 ACCOMODATION

HERITANCE AARAH - THE FIRST LEED CERTIFIED RESORT IN THE MALDIVES contribute positively to protect and preserve

These green features do not disrupt the

the environment and the ecosystems we

quality of service delivery nor the comforts

operate in. We are proud that we were able

for an extraordinary stay. Heritance Aarah

to introduce the Heritance brand to the

practices a perfect balance of environmental

Maldives as the first LEED Gold certified

commitment and guest satisfaction with

property in the islands,” commented Ms.

experiential and modern facilities including

Stasshani Jayawardena, Aitken Spence

innovative technology at the Medi Spa and

PLC Director, Head of Tourism & Leisure,

temperature controls which save energy as

and Chairperson of Aitken Spence Hotels

well as provide guests with the comfort of

Management.

choosing their preferred temperature.

“I give credit to the team that has worked

This certification further acts as an incentive

tirelessly and conducted extensive research

for Heritance Aarah to continuously strive

and integrated innovative and sustainable

-despite challenges, towards becoming

strategies to reduce the carbon and water

more environmentally friendly by thinking

footprint by 30% and 55% respectively,” she

from a greener mind.

asserted. “These have been successfully The newest addition to the Aitken Spence

a project complies with the requirements

implemented and have aided in creating a

Accessible by a scenic 40-minute seaplane

Hotels portfolio, the all-villa Premium All-

prescribed within the LEED rating systems

healthier and safer working environment

flight from the main Velana International

Inclusive resort, Heritance Aarah became

by the U.S. Green Building Council. Having

while maximising guest comfort. These

Airport, Heritance Aarah is a premium all-

the first property in the Maldives to be

achieved the Gold level certification from

strategies I believe, have contributed

inclusive all-villa resort consisting of 150

awarded the internationally recognized

the most widely used green building

towards

villas including 26 intimate luxury duplex

Leadership in Energy and Environmental

rating system reiterates the sustainability

Heritance Aarah.”

Design (LEED) Gold certification.

commitment of Aitken Spence Hotels group.

LEED

buildings

save

energy,

water,

achieving

this

milestone

for

ocean suites, 56 sunset ocean villas and 68 land villas ranging from beach villas to pool

The design of the Resort compliments

beach villas, family beach villas and family

the policy of sustainability by the use

pool beach villas. Be it a romantic interlude

resources, generate less waste and support

“Our strategies to expand are led by guests’

of

components

such

as

fuel-saving

or a family retreat, Heritance Aarah offers

human health. Given the increasing demand

expectations and design-led refurbishments

generators, energy-saving LED lighting,

curated experiences that cater to the

and pace of green building in the hospitality

to enrich the experience at our properties.

water-saving fixtures and energy-efficient

discerning traveller with diverse interests.

sector, LEED is an official recognition that

A key priority is to ensure our resorts

air conditioning.

VAKKARU MALDIVES CARRY OUT BEACH CLEANUP AT MUTHAAFUSHI Vakkaru Maldives has carried out beach

of international restaurants including an

clean up at Baa Atoll Muthaafushi.

underwater restaurant, a floating cinema, a dedicated Thai spa, a fitness centre, and

The clean up was undertaken as part of

other facilities expected in a Centara Grand

their corporate social responsibility activity

resort. The new resort is expected to open

on 7th September.

in 2019.

Muthaafushi is a new developing resort

Beach clean-ups are a part of global ongoing

under the Centara umbrella in the Maldives

trend aimed at encouraging communities to

– Centara Grand Muthaafushi Resort &

get more involved in helping to look after

Spa Maldives. The new five-star resort

and protect local environments.

is located in the South Western portion of Baa Atoll. It will comprise 24 land villas and 77 water villas with an array

ACCOMMODATION 35

HIDEAWAY BEACH RESORT & SPA INTRODUCES FLOATING EXPERIENCES Either for the perfect start into the day

bartender to serve. Enjoy refreshing drinks

with a memorable breakfast, as a special

and cocktails under blue skies with bright

party surprise with friends or just to relax at

sunshine and turquoise crystal clear water –

the pool, you may now discover the latest

a perfect setting for your unique Instagram

floating experience at Hideaway Beach

moment.

Resort & Spa. ”We are very pleased to be able to offer our Guests can now get the chance to wake

dear guests’ so many different possibilities

up and immerse in a taste experience

of floating amenities and we hope to delight

of a special kind, may it be in the private

them and make their holiday unique.” says

ambiance of the villa, guests will enjoy an

Mr. Christian Szabo, general manager of

unforgettable breakfast experience with a

Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa.

breathtaking view of the Indian Ocean. Their light breakfast selection will make every

”With these special floating elements, we

food lover’s heart beat faster with freshly

lift the celebrations of our guests to the

baked bread, fluffy croissants, sweet exotic

next level and create an unforgettable

fruits, crunchy vegetables from the garden,

experience.” says Mr. Michael Wieser, CEO

tenderly melting cheeses, spicy ham,

of Lily Hotel & Resorts Pvt Ltd.

sparkling champagne, freshly squeezed juices and eggs cooked to perfection.

The Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is

However, the resort has more to offer than

located on the crescent-shaped island of

just a floating breakfast. Imagine a fancy

Dhonakulhi in the north of the Maldives,

pool party with family or friends as the

290 km from the capital Malé and belongs

highlight of a holiday in paradise, either in

to the Haa Alifu Atoll. Characteristic

the villa enjoying bubble in a floating tray

features are unique quietness, luxury,

or at Sunset Pool Café or Meeru Bar Pool

and privacy on 297,000 square meters.

with one of their talented and well-trained

103 spacious villas in ten categories were

built at a great distance from each other

marine life. Hideaway Beach is the only

in evergreen tropical vegetation and in the

resort in the Maldives with a fully equipped

turquoise blue lagoon. A personal butler is

harbor, a home to “The Spa at Hideaway

available in almost all categories and fulfills

Maldives”, the diving school “Meridis Dive

all guest wishes. The culinary diversity is

& Relax” and the professionally supervised

reflected in four restaurants and bars. To

Kids Club. With the luxurious, all-villa and

see a paradisiacal house reef accessible a

suite concept, explore the ultimate Maldives

few meters from the shore and discover

beach holiday with its all-inclusive White

exclusively unique diving spots and abundant

Platinum Plan.

36 ACCOMMODATION

BANYAN TREE RESORTS MALDIVES COMMEMORATES BRAND’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY BY CELEBRATING ITS PEOPLE Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Angsana Ihuru

which was attended by associates and

commemorated brand’s 25th Anniversary

several guests with thrilling beach activities

by Celebrating its People.

including tug of war at the lagoon.

The 25th of September 2019 marked the

The weeklong celebration’s finale was an

25th Anniversary of Banyan Tree Hotels

Associate Recognition Event, an evening

and Resorts and its two properties in

dedicated for associates who have been

North Male’ Atoll arranged a weeklong

in service for years at both Banyan Tree

celebration with activities involving guests

Vabbinfaru and Angsana Ihuru.

and associates.

Eight associates received an award for five A ‘Swim Across the Channel’ kicked off the

years of service, seven associates for ten

celebration where 34 guests and associates

years of service, five associates for fifteen

jumped off from Angsana Ihuru jetty and

years of service, four associates for twenty

swam for about 870meters all the way

years of service and ten associates received

to Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru. This much-

an award for twenty-five years of service in

anticipated activity was arranged with the

the company.

guidance of our first aiders. Several boats guided the swimmers to ensure safety for

The awardees received certificates, badges

everyone while crossing the channel. This

and cash prizes in appreciation for the

activity was followed by a 3-day ‘sports

years of service at Banyan Tree Hotels and

fest’ held at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru beach

Resorts.

KURUMBA MALDIVES CELEBRATES 47TH ANNIVERSARY Kurumba Maldives, the country’s first

past 47 years. And they will continue to be

resort, celebrated its 47th anniversary on

the driving force at this iconic resort for

October 3rd, 2019.

many more years to come. Kurumba holds a special place in many guest’s hearts, and

Adding to the many milestones this well-

with our great facilities and the history we

loved resort has achieved, the day was

have, we maintained a strong repeat guest

celebrated with team building activities and

ratio, and we continue to attract new guests

a Street Fair in our team village, showcasing

from all over this ever-increasingly small

the culinary talents of the multi-national

world. This would not be possible without

team. It was a night for the professional

the heart and dedication of our great team.”

chefs to take off, as team members from

Kurumba was the very first private island

all departments, from engineering and

resort in the Maldives when it opened

landscaping to spa and front office, prepared

its doors in 1972 in the Indian Ocean

a selection of their favourite national dishes.

archipelago of the Maldives. Opened by

Each stand was decorated with amazing

four young Maldivians on an uninhabited

creativity and with mouth-watering dishes,

coconut plantation island in October 1972,

and the team proudly wearing their national

Kurumba marked the beginning of the

costumes to represent the many talents and

tourism industry in the country. At that

backgrounds gathered here at Kurumba

time, Maldives was isolated with no contact

.

with the outside world except by ham radio,

“We are nowhere without our team,” says,

no telephones, main electricity or water,

Andrew Jansson, GM. “They are one

few vehicles and no paved roads, and only a

the ones behind every memorable guest

small airstrip built by volunteers.

experience that has taken place over these

ACCOMMODATION 37

KIHAA MALDIVES INTRODUCES BUTLER SERVICE AS ‘EXCLUSIVE ISLANDERS’ Kihaa Maldives brands its finest and best

Exclusive Islander, always with a smile

front-liners as ‘Exclusive Islanders’ to serve

carries their name tags featuring a little

their guests in similar roles as a butler.

icon of their speciality. Feel free to strike

Visitors will able to enjoy an exceptional

up a conversation and they will let you in on

stay with their very own personal villa host.

their best tips.”, the resort stated.

The Exclusive Islanders will show the guests around the Island and assist in curating

These hosts underwent a detailed and

the best holiday to make it a memorable

extensive training programme to become

one. Their main focus is to provide high

an exclusive islander.

levels of service, ensuring all arrangements spanning from spa treatments, excursions

Kihaa Maldives is located right at the heart

and that all private dinners are booked.

of the world-famous biosphere reserve

They will also be keeping guests company

‘Hanifaru Bay’ where giant mantas and

on excursions and will attend to every whim

whale sharks thrive seasonally in feeding

of Kihaa guests without delay.

frenzies. They have 124 villas, combining contemporary and classic features such

“There has been overwhelming feedback to

as elegant furniture, romantic four-poster

Kihaa Maldives team of Exclusive Islanders.

beds, and exotic rattan lounge seats.

MALDIVES’ FIRST INTEGRATED TOURISM DESTINATION, CROSSROADS MALDIVES OPENS with local restaurants which will showcase

Hard Rock International. Featuring 178

authentic Maldives cuisine, The Marina @

spacious rooms include family suites,

Crossroads will house a number of world-

beach villas, overwater villas and overwater

famous restaurants serving international

pool villas, the resort offers a memorable

dishes from Hard Rock Cafe’ Maldives,

music-inspired stay and offers a full range

Ministry of Crab and Nihonbashi, to name

of signature experiences and facilities for

a few.

all ages including Hard Rock Cafe®, Body Rock® fitness centre, Rock Spa®, Rock

The first phase of the Crossroads Maldives

Shop® and Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club™.

project also features two lifestyle hotels,

A dedicated mobile application was also

Hard Rock Hotel Maldives and SAii Lagoon

launched, allowing guests to plan and

Maldives which have direct access to

manage their trips with ease. With easy

the extensive facilities at the Marina @

access to the facilities and services available

Crossroads including the Marina Discovery

in the five main areas for leisure and

Centre, the Koimala & Maalimi’s junior

activities on the island — Dining, Shopping,

beach club & camp, a 30-berth marina and

Events, Exploration and Rooms — guests

the Crossroads Event Hall.

can explore and modify their experience as they wish. The registration is free and

The opening of SAii Lagoon Maldives also

available for everyone who is interested in visiting Crossroads.

tourist

an 800-metre lifestyle area which features

marks the debut of Curio Collection by

destination in the Maldives, Crossroad

the largest variety of experiences including

Hilton in South East Asia and the fifth Curio

Maldives’ first phase has opened.

fashion and accessories, entertainment

Collection by Hilton property in the Asia

With the opening of the three property,

and extraordinary events as well as dining

Pacific. With a total of 198 rooms and villas,

Crossroads Maldives intends to create

outlets.

the resort will be Hilton’s third property in

Maldives a game-changing retreat offering

the Maldives, making the global hospitality

a playful getaway for groups of fun-seeking friends, couples and families.

The

Maldives

first

integrated

Crossroads Maldives project is developed and owned by Thailand’s leading developer, Singha Estate. Spanning over nine islands in

The Marina @ Crossroads, Maldives caters

company the largest and longest-running

the Emboodhoo Lagoon, the first phase of

a vibrant and dynamic dining experience to

international hotel operator in the Maldives.

the project debuted two resorts properties

the Maldives with an expansive selection for

Meanwhile, Hard Rock Hotel is the first

and the Marina @ Crossroads, Maldives -

both local and foreign visitors alike. Along

outpost of the world-famous hotel brand,

38 ACCOMODATION

INTERCONTINENTAL MALDIVES MAAMUNGAU RESORT MARKS FIRST RESORT TO OPEN ON OFFICIAL SET DATE The first InterContinental Resort in the

InterContinental

Maldives,

Maldives

“The opening of the InterContinental

Maamunagau Resort has welcomed its first

Maldives signals a new era for the brand;

guests on Sunday.

and further raises the bar in terms of luxury

InterContinental

Maldives,

comments

and immersive experiences here in the Raa Situated at the southern tip of Raa atoll,

Atoll. We are truly privileged to open this

the resort was officially inaugurated by

resort, which flanks the Baa Atoll UNESCO

a momentous palm leaf cutting session

biosphere and creates an offering that

ceremony by the Tourism Minister - Mr.

enriches guests’ stay through education,

Ali Waheed, Mr. Shantha de Silva - Head

exploration and relaxation, whilst ensuring

of Resorts (Thailand and Indonesia) and

the preservation of this ocean idyll for

the General Manager of InterContinental

generations to come.”

Maldives - Mr. Stefan Huemer.

The celebration continued with a display Tourism Minister Ali Waheed stated during

of live art performances by local talents

his speech that, “Raa Atoll is a culturally rich

including Baachy and a live musical

with a long history and is the place which

assemble of Jazz & Lounge music by DJ

environment designed to enhance the

views with direct beach and lagoon access,

houses one of the heroes of the liberation

Ngie at the Digestif at The Retreat on

unrivaled beauty, light and landscape of the

as well as private infinity and jacuzzi pools.

of the Maldives from the Portuguese in

InterContinental Maamunagau.

atoll.

Overwater Villas offer expansive outdoor decks and Beach Villas provide direct beach

1573, “Dhandehelu”. He was the first mate of the Kalhuohfummi, the odi (boat) of

A 35-minute seaplane flight from Velana

Inspiring,

for

access. The resort also has four exclusive

Bodu Muhammed Thakurufaanu (Sultan

International

stylish barefoot living, the design was

two and three-bedroom Residences, with

Ghazi Muhammed Thakurufannu, 1573-

Maldives Maamunagau Resort is the first

conceptualized

Singapore-based

the largest, the three-bedroom Royal

1585) who led the successful rebellion

and only all-Club InterContinental Resort in

architects’ Eco-ID to be in perfect synergy

Beachfront Residence, offering 790sqm of

against the Portuguese. Hence, tourism

the world. The property offers 81 luxurious

with the incredible surroundings and views.

luxurious privacy.

and culture are very interconnected in this

beach, lagoon and overwater villas &

The private villas feature contemporary

atoll and you can see from the effects at the

residences which has unobstructed views

Maldivian interiors by Avalon Collective

To create and maintain a sustainable marine

property that it gives you a glimpse into the

of the ocean along with their own private

Interior Design Studio and offer expansive

ecosystem,

traditional Maldivian way of life.”

terrace and pool.

areas with breath-taking vistas of the Indian

Maamunagau Resort is also working closely

Ocean.

with Manta Trust and has a manta sanctuary

Airport,

InterContinental

refined by

and

made

on the property.

This marks the first resort in the Maldives

InterContinental Maldives has been created

to debut on the officially set launch date.

to give families and couples the time and

The first-of-its-kind in the Maldives, the

Stefan O.Huemer, General Manager of

space to disconnect from every day in an

two-story Lagoon Villas combine overwater

TOLARNO MALDIVES KUNAAVASHI RESORT TO OPEN IN 2020 La Vie Hotels & Resorts has announced

distinctive food and beverage outlets.

the opening of its first Maldivian property – Tolarno Maldives Kunaavashi Resort in Q1

La Vie Hotels & Resorts stated that Tolarno

2020.

Maldives will offer recreational facilities scattered in different parts of the island

Tolarno Maldives is located at Maldives’

including a sea-view infinity pool, spa, fully-

best diving destination - Vaavu atoll and is

equipped diving and watersports centre,

accessible by 10-minute seaplane ride or

and a Kids Club offering an indoor and

1-hour speedboat journey. The resort is said

outdoor playground for kids of all ages.

to feature works from Maldives’ very own

Established in Australia back in 2000, La Vie

artists in the public area as well as at each

Hotels and Resorts has grown into a leading

of its 72 villas. Gastronomic indulgence

international

can also be found in the island resort’s 5

company.

hospitality

management

InterContinental®

Maldives

ACCOMMODATION 39

ANGSANA IHURU CELEBRATES THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE RANNAMAARI WRECK WITH A 24 HOUR LIVE DIVE EVENT – more familiar as N.D. Azeez, Environment

- the Regional Director of PADI, Zoona

Champion in the Maldives, former Director

Naseem - Managing Director of Moodhu

of Conservation for Banyan Tree and

Bulhaa, previously the Dive Base Leader

Angsana Maldives and one of the Directors

and Recreation Manager of Angsana Ihuru

of Ihuru Investments PVT LTD.

Resort & Spa, one of the coordinators of the underwater cabinet meeting and part of

The ship sank “mysteriously” two days

the Marine Team that initiated the 10 to 10

before the planned event and has since

Dive.

become a home for thousands of sea creatures at a depth of 26 metres.

This yearly event aims to create a delightfully educational experience to all participants

The resort welcomed over 120 divers from

and spread awareness of the importance of

different dive centers, organizations such as

conserving marine life in the Maldives.

Maldives Whale Shark Research Program,

Located just 25 minutes away from the

Allied

National

international airport, Angsana Ihuru is a

University and various like-minded groups

small boutique resort surrounded by one of

Insurance,

Maldives

Angsana Ihuru has celebrated the 20th

resort’s Marine Lab Team as well as other

and individuals who not only joined the

the most vibrant and well-preserved house

Anniversary of the Rannamaari Wreck with

organizations present during the event

dives and signed their attendance on the

reefs in the Maldives. The conservation

a 24hour live dive event that started at 10

and a role play about the Legend of the

underwater guest book but also shared

efforts in the resort started in 1996 and

am on the 31st of August and ended at 10

Rannamaari.

their conservation programmes.

are home to the Rannaamari Wreck and the

am on the 1st of September.

innovative Necklace Project.

The Rannamaari Wreck was previously

Several personalities and advocates of

The 10 to 10 dive event live-streamed

used as a dredging ship and was towed

environment conservation also attended

on the resort’s Youtube channel, showing

to Ihuru Island in 1999 to be used as an

the event such as Ahmed Mujuthaba

a series of activities such as dives to the

artificial reef through the initiative of Shahul

- Chairman and Managing Director of

Rannaamari Wreck which included day,

Hameed, former Banyan Tree and Angsana

Ihuru

night and dawn dives, free diving session,

Maldives Assistant Vice President Maldives

Mahmood - Member of the Parliament and

coral planting, special marine talks by the

Corporate and Abdul Azeez Abdul Hakeem

Environmental Champion, Matt Wenger

Investments

PVT

LTD,

Jeehan

KIHAA MALDIVES CEASES USE OF PLASTIC STRAWS Kihaa Maldives announced that they will no

impact on the environment.

longer be using plastic straws in the resort.

This is the latest initiative by Kihaa Maldives

Kihaa Maldives stated that “To reduce the

to eliminate single-use plastics and to

environmental footprint, Kihaa Maldives

contribute to their continued efforts to

takes great pride in operating responsibly.

protect the environment. The decision to

Kihaa Maldives endeavours to be eco-

discontinue single-use plastic straws is in

friendly and is committed to sustaining the

immediate effect and guests are served

natural environment”.

drinks without straws. If requested, straws made from sustainably sourced organic

Kihaa Maldives is located right at the heart

bamboo are offered.

of the world-famous biosphere reserve ‘Hanifaru Bay’ where giant mantas and

The resort has established its own water

whale sharks thrive seasonally in feeding

bottling plant, where guests are offered

frenzies. They have 124 villas, combining

water in reusable glass bottles. This helps

contemporary and classic features such

remove about 275,000 plastic bottles per

as elegant furniture, romantic four-poster

year that either needs to be disposed or

beds, and exotic rattan lounge seats.

recycled which brings a massive negative

40 CELEBRITY NEWS

BOLLYWOOD ACTRESS SONAKSHI SINHA HOLIDAYING AT JUMEIRAH VITTAVELI Sonakshi Sinha is having a blast on her

the resort with Maldivian traditional Bodu

Maldives vacation at Jumeirah Vittaveli.

Beru, inspite of the rain.

Sonakshi shared a photo of herself in a

Daughter of the veteran actor Shatrughan

swimsuit from Jumeirah Vittaveli resort

Sinha, the Bollywood diva has visited the

in the Maldives. She captioned the photo,

Maldives previously and stayed at a Cocoa

“Should’ve been under the Maldivian sun,

Collection Resort and Fairmont Maldives

but we got some rain instead!! No problem

– Sirru-Fen Fushi Resort. She is not shy

because @jumeirahvittaveli makes the

in declaring her love for the white sandy

waiting inside worth it too!! Love being back

beaches and crystal-clear waters of the

in my favourite place in the whole wide

island nation.

world!!!”

On the work front, Sonakshi was last seen It was seen from her Instagram stories that

in Mission Mangal. Her next film Dabangg 3

she received a very warm welcome from

with Salman Khan will release in December.

HOLLYWOOD SUPERSTAR AND COMEDIAN WILL SMITH IN MALDIVES Hollywood Actor and comedian, Will Smith

Hollywood’, Will Smith is most well-known

arrived in the Maldives.

for his role in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. He has most recently starred in the classical

Media reports circulating stated that Will

live-action adaptation of ‘Aladdin’ where he

Smith along with his family was in the

portrayed ‘the Genie’.

Maldives vacationing. However, he did not publicize where he was staying nor the

He will next appear as an assassin who faces

duration of his trip in the Maldives on any

off against himself, a clone who is younger

social media platform.

and in his prime in Ang Lee’s Gemini Man, scheduled for release on October 4, 2019.

Known as the ‘most powerful actor in

M7 AD

CELEBRITY NEWS

41

AUSTRALIAN MUSIC LEGEND JIMMY BARNES PERFORMS AT SURF MUSIC IN PARADISE BY HOLIDAY INN RESORT KANDOOMA MALDIVES Australian music legend James Dixon

hit albums of any Australian artist.

‘Jimmy’ Barnes has performed for the third consecutive year at the Surf Music in

During his last show at Kandooma on

Paradise event hosted at Holiday Inn Resort

September 6th, the singer performed his

Kandooma.

all-time favorites including ‘When the War is Over’, ‘Lover Lover’, ‘When a Man Loves

From August 31st-September 7th, intimate

a Woman’ and ‘Working Class Man’.

and exclusive sunset shows took place at the resort featuring the top favorite records

Located in the South Male, 40 minutes

of guests. This exclusive series of gigs

by speedboat from the main Velana

showcased performances by Jimmy Barnes

International

along with his family including separate gigs

Kandooma

by his son David Campbell and daughter

spectacular architecture inspired by sea

Mahalia Barnes.

barnacles. The property offers rooms

Airport, Maldives

the

32-acre

resort

features

built around the edge or on the water Raised on tough soul music and gutsy rock,

such as Beach View Villas, Seaview Beach

Jimmy Barnes is known as a true legend of

Houses, Family Beach Houses and Seaview

music. His career both as a solo performer

Overwater Bungalows.

and as the lead vocalist with the rock band Cold Chisel has made him one of the most

Featuring the largest children’s facility in

popular and best-selling Australian music

the Maldives — the Kandoo Kids Club

artists of all time. The combination of 14

which has an outdoor splash pool — and

Australian Top 40 albums for Cold Chisel

daily activities coupled with the “Kids Stay

and 13 charting solo albums, including nine

& Eat Free” programme makes this the

No. 1s, gives Barnes the highest number of

perfect retreat for family travelers.

INFLUENTIAL CELEBRITIES PROMOTE MALDIVES IN SOUTH KOREA MARKET South Korean Celebrities visit Maldives

Talk Concert”, held at The Ananti Club in

under the joint campaign by Maldives

Cheongdam-dong, saw attendees from the

Marketing & Public Relations Corporation

tourism and hospitality industry, celebrities

and

promote

and influencers of South Korea. This event

Maldives. The celebrities include Nichkhun

was hosted by comedian Yoon-sang Ahn

& Chanseong from JYP Group, 2PM & actor

and began with a cocktail reception prior to

Keonjoo Jeong who was also on famous

the opening ceremony. A video featuring the

Korean show “Summer Night Talk Show”.

experiences of the celebrities in Maldives

Singapore

Airlines

to

was played during the event. It was followed During their visit, the celebrities were hosted by Equator Village, Addu City and

by a garden party and a lucky draw along with the closing ceremony.

Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa. Eight different videos were created during

The South Korea market has promising

their stay which has now been published

potential for Maldives. A total of the 34,400

in

YouTube

tourists from the region visited the Maldives

channel, jyppictures, with over 163+K

in 2018. Statistics from January to July

views. An event with the influential figures

2019 show, 19,880 tourists from the region

was held in South Korea after their visit to

arrived to Maldives; a growth of 8.1%

Maldives. The “Midsummer Night Travel

compared to the same period of last year.

the

JYP

entertainment’s

42 CELEBRITY NEWS

CELEBRATED SWEDISH CHEF, TORA OLSSON FLIES IN FOR VEGAN TAKEOVER AT AMILLA FUSHI’S WELLNESS CAFE’ become a way for Tora to create unique

Javvu Spa’s renowned treatments to offer a

dining experiences to cleanse diners’

nurturing wellbeing journey for guests.

palates

of

any

preconceptions

about

plant-based foods. By experimenting with

On selected nights, Chef Tora will also

unusual flavor combinations and cooking

be hosting a molecular vegan experience

techniques, Olsson creates beautiful, tasty

through a spectacular seven-course tasting

and entertaining dishes that aren’t just

menu for up to 30 guests. Combining food,

salads.

art and science, each dish on the exclusive menu will present a whole new experience

Working with Amilla’s talented team of

for diners with an emphasis on the senses;

chefs, Tora will be reimagining the lunch

exploring the story behind the ingredients,

menu at the resort’s energizing Wellness

texture, taste, appearance and season. All

Café at Javvu Spa to serve up creative

enriched by the serene beachside bliss of

dishes centered on balancing wellness of the

the island’s foodie hub Baazaar.

body and mind with nutritious plant-based food inspired by the resort’s surroundings.

Located just 30 minutes by seaplane from

Packed full of flavor and fresh ingredients,

Malé International (Velana International

dishes will include the likes of Foggy Days,

Airport), Amilla Fushi offers a choice of 59

smoked zucchini falafel served with chili

Houses that sit gracefully over crystal clear

marinated mixed vegetables and a creamy

waters, nestle among lush tree tops or hug

avocado dressing; I Do, creamy cauliflower

the shores of pristine white sand; plus eight

and

blueberry/

spectacular four- to eight-bedroom Beach

ginger drops, topped with fresh herbs

Residences ideally suited to large families,

and sparkling wine; Sea Breeze, fuchsia

groups of friends and VVIPs seeking the

cauliflower, bright green asparagus and

ultimate in space and privacy.

almond

soup

with

haricots verts garnished with flowers and vegan cream cheese; and Summer Snow,

Amilla’s innovative restaurants range from

Amilla Fushi has announced plans to host

combining organic plant-based ingredients

a delicate flower immersed in a strawberry

the diverse, informal foodie hub Baazaar

a delightful vegan gastronomic experience

with a touch of molecular gastronomy and

pearl with an array of marinated rhubarb

to the relaxed yet sophisticated overwater

with the award-winning Swedish food

an aesthete’s finesse.

twists, strawberries and caramelised maple

dining at the signature Feeling Koi. Guests

syrup, topped with wild strawberry snow-

can even drop into gourmet café and deli

bubbles.

The Emperor General Store or The Wine

designer and founder of Tora Flora Food, Chef Tora Olsson.

Conveying sustainable

more

than

meals,

just

healthy,

Olsson,

known

Shop & Cellar Door to treat themselves

From 22 October to 7 November 2019,

professionally as Tora Flora, delivers a

Dedicated to sourcing unprocessed seasonal

to lighter snacks, a favorite bottle or a

gastronomic artist and scientist Chef Tora

unique and memorable experience for

ingredients and championing plant-based

gourmet selection of artisanal cheeses.

will bring together science, art and a pinch

diners. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in

dishes, many of Chef Tora’s creations

of madness to create an exclusive lunch

Gastronomy and a Master’s in Food and

will become permanent fixtures on the

experience at the resort’s Wellness Café

Meal Science, molecular gastronomy has

Wellness Cafe lunch menu, complementing

DJ SNAKE WAS AT WALDORF ASTORIA MALDIVES The DJ shared a series of video clips on his

run by Diplo, and released on February

Instagram story of him holidaying at the

2013. In June 2013, DJ Snake was invited

recently opened Waldorf Astoria Maldives

by Diplo to do a live mix on his radio show,

Ithaafushi.

“Diplo & Friends”, which airs on BBC Radio 1.

DJ Snake debuted into the international scene with singles “Bird Machine” and “Turn

On 30 April 2014, DJ Snake was labelled

Down for What” in 2013. “Bird Machine” is

as an “Artist to Watch” by FoxWeekly. In

a collaboration with fellow French musician

March 2018, Billboard named DJ Snake as

Alesia. The single was picked up by Mad

number nine on their 2018 ranking of dance

Decent, a Los Angeles-based record label

musicians titled Billboard Dance 100.

CELEBRITY NEWS 43

CZECH-AUSTRIAN JAZZ QUARTET ‘PURPLE IS THE COLOR’ PERFORMED AT JAZZ CAFE, KURUMBA & KURAMATHI MALDIVES The Czech - Austrian jazz quartet ‘Purple is

(Drums) in 2015 at a jam session in Linz,

the Color’ performed at Jazz Cafe on 14th

Austria, the city where he was finishing his

& 15th September, Kurumba Maldives on

studies, and where the other three had

16th September and at Kuramathi Island

recently begun theirs. Impromptu sessions

Resort on 17th & 18th September.

there marked the beginning of what now is the quartet Purple Is The Color.

The band’s music is inspired by the rich jazz quartet tradition and through incorporating

Raab made a name for himself in the

elements of pop and folk music, weaving

Austrian scene, playing in a variety of

it all together they bring out a modern

groups and genres, mainly with singer Lucia

soundscape.

‘Unmasked’

Leena in the pop group Listen to Leena and

consists of an elegant and captivating kind

the contemporary jazz quintet Luzid Chaos.

of jazz.

Flagar’s own quartet was shortlisted for the

Their

album

2015 European Jazz Competition, which Pianist and composer Simon Raab met

saw drummer Wierzgoń win the prize for

his musical partners Štěpán Flagar (Sax),

the best soloist that year.

Martin Kocian (Bass), and Michał Wierzgoń

44 CELEBRITY NEWS

MALDIVES & SUNIEL SHETTY JOIN HANDS FOR A FITTER MALDIVES Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Community

2018 as a 120-day fitness festival that was

Empowerment

that

held across 43 cities in India and achieved

Bollywood Superstar and Fitness Guru Mr.

an overall reach of approximately 200

Suniel Shetty has accepted the invitation to

million consumers.

has

announced

be appointed as ‘Ambassador of Wellness’ in the Maldives.

Speaking on the occasion, Suneil Shetty said, “It is an honor and privilege for me to

The ministry is committed to promoting

be invited by the Republic of Maldives to

wellness and a healthier lifestyle among

work with them on their mission to make

Maldivians. In their efforts to make the

the Maldives a healthier nation. At the core

Maldives a fitter nation the ministry

of this association shall be the intention to

will be starting ‘Mission Fit Maldives’, a

help address the most common ailments

movement to make fitness an achievable

and lifestyle disorders that society currently

goal for everyone across the Maldives. As

deals with. We have come together for

challenge the misconception that leading

counselor is to conduct fitness programs for

‘Ambassador of Wellness’ Mr. Suneil Shetty

the common intention of busting all myths

a healthy lifestyle is a complex, time-

the citizens of the island. Additionally, with

and his team will be working with fitness

about fitness and making every household

consuming and arduous task.

the assistance of the Indian Government,

industry professionals in the Maldives on

aware and interested in the simplicity of the

a mission to make Maldives one of the

ways of staying healthy. I am delighted to be

Commenting on Mission Fit Maldives,

outdoor gyms in 61 islands. Our aim is to

World’s healthiest nations.

a part of His Excellency President Ibrahim

Minister Ahmed Mahloof, said “Promoting

install an outdoor gym in every island within

Mohamed Solih’s vision to make the

wellness and a healthy lifestyle is one

the next two years, strengthening our efforts

Widely known for his work in the Indian film

Maldives a fitter nation and I look forward

of the most important pledges of this

to build a healthier nation. We are grateful

industry over the last three decades, Mr.

to working with Minister Ahmed Mahloof

government. The aim of this movement is

to Mr. Shetty for readily agreeing to support

Suniel Shetty leads India’s biggest fitness

and his team on this mission.”

to simplify fitness for every citizen of this

our vision and look forward to welcoming

country. As part of our efforts to promote

him to the Maldives very soon. Mr. Shetty’s

movement ‘Mission Fit India’ in partnership

we have started the process of installing

with one of India’s largest media house,

The objective of ‘Mission Fit Maldives’

fitness, we have commenced a program

participation will be a huge boost to make

Hindustan Times Media Limited. Season

campaign shall be to encourage every

to appoint a trained sports counselor for

Mission Fit Maldives a success.”

one of Mission Fit India was conducted in

Maldivian to adopt a fitter lifestyle and

each island. The main responsibility of this

MANCHESTER CITY COACH PEP GUARDIOLA IN MALDIVES FOR A MUCH-NEEDED GETAWAY According to sources, Manchester City

been a challenge for him as well.

coach Pep Guardiola was spending his holiday in the luxury resort Cheval Blanc

Manchester City failed to score against

Randheli in the Maldives.

Wolves on Sunday despite being one of the strongest attacking sides at the moment.

The Spanish legend arrived in the Maldives

Three of their league winning centre-backs

on Monday morning after his team received

are not available with two of them on injury

a shocking defeat on Sunday night’s game

and it looks like options are running out.

against Wolves.

Cheval Blanc Randheli is one of the top resorts in the Maldives. The award-winning

While he is spending his time under the

luxury resort is famed among celebrities and

Maldivian sun, it would be hard for him to

royalties from all over the world. Located in

be at ease after the poor results and injury

the Noonu Atoll, Just a 45-minute private

crisis at his club Manchester City. Guardiola

seaplane ride away the leisure and comfort

has been famed as a master of finding

of Cheval Blanc Randheli is exactly what

solutions during his almost perfect spell in

Pep Guardiola was looking for.

the club over two years, but this crisis has

FAIRS 45

CHEF SHIFU MAKES A HISTORICAL WIN AT THE 15TH EDITION OF THE HOTEL ASIA EXHIBITION & INTERNATIONAL CULINARY CHALLENGE many a voice in the country, Chef Shifu

experience hailed as a rare, mouthwatering

acquired her degree in Culinary Arts and

adventure,

Foodservice Management from Taylor’s

reputation in its short run so far.

establishing

an

unrivaled

University, needless to say, with honors as is the standard expected from her.

Chef Shifu went on to partake in her first official culinary challenge at the 15th Edition

After returning to the Maldives and a

of the Hotel Asia Exhibition & International

couple of stints in the famed kitchens of

Culinary Challenge where her skills were

many resorts on the sunny side of life, she

put to the test in front of the very figures

decided on paving her own way into the

she idolized while coming up the rungs of

culinary hall of fame.

the culinary ladder in the form of worldrenowned chefs from all over the world.

Alongside

another

inspirational

and

renowned figure in the culinary world in

Furthermore, while three of those were top

Chef Fatheen, both of them co-founded the

golds with 1st place finishes, her hard work

Chef Shifana Saeed has made history by

Shifana Saeed, or as more commonly known

only Japanese restaurant in the Maldives;

and determination paid off when she was

netting not one, but four gold medals in

as, ‘Shifu’, hails from the southernmost

namely Oishii – the house of Sushi where

crowned the Most Outstanding Chef along

all four of the categories she enlisted in at

point of the Maldives in S. Hithadhoo of

Shifu now serves as the Executive Sous

with the Top Maldivian Chef among some

15th Edition of the Hotel Asia Exhibition &

Addu City. Having always had a passion

Chef. The elegant and high-class restaurant,

600 professional chefs who partook in this

International Culinary Challenge held from

for the ongoing of a kitchen, now a fully-

much like the crafty minds behind the

challenge.

7th-9th October at Dharubaaruge.

fledged Chef quickly gaining plaudits from

idea, delivers a unique Japanese fusion

MALDIVES SHOWCASED AT MATTA FAIR 2019 The Maldives is showcased at the biggest

Maldivian stall included a chance for the

travel fair in Malaysia, organized by the

visitors to see the underwater beauty

Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel

of Maldives through the use of virtual

Agents (MATTA). Happening at the Putra

reality. In addition to this, live traditional

World Trade Centre (PWTC) in Kuala

performances was carried out by local

Lumpur, this 48th edition of MATTA Fair

artists ‘Faiyimini Boduberu Group’.

features 1,396 booths featuring 292 travel companies and tourism organisations.

MATTA fair was visited by at least 110,000 visitors to the fair this year. The Malaysian

According to Maldives Marketing and Public

market has promising potential whereby

Relations Company (MMPRC), 9 companies

a total of 13,000 Malaysian tourists were

from the Maldives are participating in this

welcomed to the Maldives so far this year.

event which will be held from 6th to 8th September 2019. Among the activities carried out in this 54 square metres

46 WELLNESS

TOP 10 WELLNESS RETREATS IN THE MALDIVES will help take the mind off the stress of life

treatments.

and helps recharge.

8. One&Only Reethi Rah

4. Velaa Private Island Velaa’s

wellness

The resort offers water activities, yoga

retreat

combines

classes, Pilates, meditation, as well as

medical consultations, high tech body

personal training. The personalized retreats

analysis, healthy meal plan with a diverse

and programs are aimed to meet the

exercise regimen and results-oriented spa

wellness needs of individual retreats for

treatments. They also have a personal

solo travellers as well as for couples and

trainer to help set goals on the initial

families.

assessment and coaches through the whole

9. Soneva Jani

retreat to reach them.

Soneva Jani offers a wide range of

5. COMO Maalifushi

massages, scrubs and wraps, facials, mani-

The COMO Shambhala Retreat is an award-

pedis, and Ayurvedic therapies. The Soneva

winning retreat at COMO Maalifushi allows

Spa also offers yoga classes and is fully-

guests to sample all of their wellness

equipped with a gym. After a relaxing day

Destination Deluxe has ranked the top 10

begins with a non-invasive health screening,

experiences, such as the COMO Shambhala

at the spa, guests can enjoy snorkelling and

wellness retreats in the Maldives.

which measures the guest’s key physiological

scrubs, massages, reflexology and facials,

get a glimpse of marine life or have a picnic

biomarkers. A wellness program will be

as well as daily al fresco yoga sessions.

under the stars with the resort’s Midnight

1. Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru

created based on the results to meet the

The resort offers yoga classes with their

set goals. The resort combines some of the

6. Jumeirah Vittaveli

world-class

uses

best holistic treatments, with the healing

The

ayurvedic practices in their spa treatments.

benefits of the surrounding environment

watersports and diving activities. The Talise

The resort’s Joali Spa by ESPA offers

Their Spa & Ayurvedic Retreat offers a

and expert knowledge of their spa team to

Spa at Jumeirah Vittaveli offers a wide range

signature

wide range of spa treatments and wellness

create wellness programs that will surely set

of treatments that are designed to give a

restores the body’s vibrancy and vitality.

experiences

a healthier lifestyle.

holistic experience during the stay. They

Located on Muravandhoo island in the Raa

also have a state-of-the-art over-water gym

Atoll in the northern Maldives, Joali is an

resident

yogis

including

the

and

all-inclusive

panchakarma (‘five therapies’ in Sanskrit)

Astronomy Picnic to end the day. resort

integrates

wellness

with

3. Anantara Kihavah Maldives and the first ice rink in the Maldives. cleansing personalized program which Villas helps to remove deep-rooted stress and The resort features the Maldives’ only 7. Anantara Veli Maldives Resort Anantara Veli Maldives’ 3-night Cellular

can indulge in mani-pedis and a range of

Rejuvenation Retreat allows the guests to

2. Six Senses Laamu

cutting-edge aesthetic facials. Surroundings

take part in the resort’s wellness and fitness

At Six Senses Laamu the wellness journey

and tranquil setting of Anantara Kihavah

classes, and enjoy some of the best spa

DERAVANA SPA LAUNCHES NEW COMPLIMENTARY WELLNESS CLASS AT DUSIT THANI MALDIVES

award-winning

Devarana

Spa

that

completely

water villas and residences.

medi spa, Cocoon Medical Spa, where you

The

treatments

exotic resort with 73 private beach and

which is an Ayurvedic detoxification and

illness-causing toxins.

10. Joali Maldives

at

Stretching postures typical to the ancient

Dusit Thani Maldives has launched a new

“Rusie Dotton” method, also known as

wellness programme giving guests the

the Hermit’s Body Twist, every Saturday

opportunity to learn the secrets behind

from 10am – 10.45am. These exercises

the spa’s renowned Thai massage and Thai

are

Stretching treatments.

improve circulation, reduce stress, and

designed

to

promote

flexibility,

boost concentration. Both classes are Every Wednesday from 10am-10.45am,

complimentary for guests staying at the

guests can learn Thai Massage, often called

resort.

Thai Yoga Massage, with the spa’s expert therapists in the comfort of the Devarana

Located just 35 minutes by seaplane

Sanctuary.

from capital city Malé, and 10 minutes by speedboat from Dharavandhoo Domestic

Considered a part of traditional Thai

Airport in Baa Atoll, Dusit Thani Maldives

medicine, Thai massage combines elements

comprises 94 villas and residences, along

of yoga, meditation, acupressure and

with three restaurants, two bars, and

assisted stretching to relieve physical and

Dusit’s signature Devarana Spa. The resort

emotional tension. Research has shown

is surrounded by a rich house reef, white

that Thai massage can increase physical

sandy beaches and a turquoise lagoon.

energy levels, relieve headaches, stimulate

A well-equipped Kids Club adds to the

circulation and improve range of motion.

resort’s family-friendly appeal.

Guests can also learn traditional Thai

TRAININGS 47

MATI CONDUCTS ADVANCED DIGITAL MARKETING WORKSHOP The Maldives Association of Tourism

Happy Marketer Pvt Ltd is an award-

Industry (MATI) in collaboration with Happy

winning, data-driven digital consulting firm

Marketer and Dhiraagu, conducted an

being also the only digital firm in the region

advanced digital marketing workshop on

with Google Partnerships across Analytics,

September 1st 2019 at Champa Central

Adwords, DoubleClick, Cloud & Training.

Hotel.

A statement issued by MATI stated that they plan to host similar training workshops

Close to 70 participants from various resorts,

in the future addressing different skills and

travel agencies and other hospitality-related

competency areas.

organizations participated in this workshop.

The workshop delivered information and

A non-profit organization established with

insights related to effective modern digital

the introduction of the Tourism Industry

marketing strategies as well as upcoming

in the Maldives, MATI’s service has been

digital

google

provided to almost all the travel and

analytics by a Singaporean based Marketing

tourism-related issues which arise in the

Agency known as Happy Marketer Pvt Ltd.

Maldives.

marketing

trends

and

FIRST SESSION OF THE TRAVEL SOFTWARE TRAINING PROGRAM CONCLUDES SUCCESSFULLY Maldives

Association

of

Tourism

Professionals (ATP) and Guest House

to work as a strategic partner for boosting revenues and profits.

Association of Maldives (GAM) hosted the first session of the Travel software training

An expert from Profitable rooms, the

program in association with Corporate

leading travel technology provider of India

Maldives Academy (CMA) and Ukulhas

shared their expertise and knowhow on

Council.

travel technology. Training areas included distribution channel management, how to

Participants included locals and expats

increase the profitability and efficiency of

from the local travel industry. This training

the distribution channels. The training was

helped them learn about travel software and

free. ATP and GAM stated that another

learn entire hotel ecosystem, from handling

session will continue at Alif Alif Ukulhas on

distribution needs with online channels and

5th October 2019. For registrations visit

(offline) travel agents/corporates/ DMCs to

ATP Facebook page or GAM website.

handling operational needs at the hotel, and

The leading premium training institute registered in the Maldives, offering a comprehensive range of education, training and consultancy services. WIth extensive network of global training providers, experts and local trainers CMA is confident in delivering customized services. Our motto “excellence, n othing less” is meant to serve as an inspiration to clients ranging from start-ups to large corporate entities

48 TRAININGS

MATI & MAHRP HOSTS 2ND EDITION OF THE ‘’DREAM, DECIDE, DEVELOP’’ CAREER GUIDANCE SERIES

The Maldives Association of Tourism

The event included a keynote address

Industry

Maldives

with the theme ‘’What to consider when

Resource

choosing a career?’’ by Mr. Ibrahim Inaz

Professionals (MAHRP), in association with

(Resort Manager, SAii Lagoon Maldives)

Centre for Higher Secondary Education

and case study presentations by two

(CHSE) held the 2nd edition of the ‘’Dream,

guest speakers, Ms. Nina Nizar (Sales and

Decide, Develop’’ – Seizing your dream

Marketing Manager, Sun Travels and Tours)

career within the Hospitality Industry’’

and Mr. Mohamed Azmeel (Photographer,

career guidance series.

Canon Brand Ambassador) detailing their

(MATI)

Association

of

and

the

Human

journey within the Hospitality Industry.

The aim of the series is to enhance awareness of the widespread career paths

The event also included a panel discussion

available in the Hospitality Industry and

and Q&A session with the theme ‘’How do

disseminate knowledge and insights that

you find your passion within the service

would assist in pursuing them.

industry’’ consisting of Mr. Rafil Mohamed (Executive Director, MATI), Mr. Ali Farooq

The Minister of State for Education Hon.

(Operations Manager, Kurumba Maldives)

Abdullah Rasheed Ahmed and the Principal

and Mr. Ahmed Siraj (Training Manager,

of CHSE Ms. Aishath Safoora attended and

LUX North Male’ Atoll).

spoke at the event.

MATI and MAHRP, plans to host the 3rd edition of the series in B. Eydhafushi in

Other attendees included Executive Board Members of MATI and MAHRP, as well as senior management personnel of CHSE, teachers and A-level students.

November of 2019.

TRAVEL AGENTS 49

HAYS TRAVEL BUYS UP ALL 555 THOMAS COOK SHOPS AND TAKES ON STAFF A rival travel agency is set to buy hundreds

150,000 stranded holidaymakers. Hays told

of Thomas Cook stores after it collapsed

the BBC it planned to reopen all the shops

last month, potentially saving up to 2,500

with immediate effect, adding to the 190

further jobs.

stores to its portfolio.

The UK’s largest independent travel agent

Irene Hays, chair of Sunderland-based

Hays Travel announced today it will buy

Hays, said: “Thomas Cook was a much-

all 555 stores from the holiday company.

loved brand and a pillar of the UK and the

we have reached an agreement with Hays

The move could potentially save thousands

global travel industry. “We will build on the

Travel to acquire Thomas Cook’s entire UK

of jobs after 9,000 staff lost out when the

good things Thomas Cook had - not least its

retail estate, comprising 555 stores across

Mr Hays told the BBC: “It is a game-changer

company went into administration last

people - and that will put us in even better

the country. “This represents an important

for us, almost trebling the number of shops

month. Hays Travel has told Sky News it

stead for the future”.

step in the liquidation process, as we seek

we have and doubling our workforce - and

to realise the company’s assets.”

for the industry, which will get to keep some

had already taken on 494 former Thomas Cook employees.

Official Receiver David Chapman said

forward to working with many of them.”

of its most talented people. Our staff were

the property deal, for an undisclosed

John and Irene Hays, managing director

devastated to hear about Thomas Cook and

The collapse of one of the world’s best

sum, would provide opportunities for a

and group chair of Hays Travel Limited,

we all immediately felt we wanted to help.”

known

a

“significant number” of former Thomas

told Sky: “Thomas Cook was a much-loved

repatriation exercise to recover more than

Cook workers. “I am pleased to announce

brand employing talented people. We look

holiday

brands

prompted

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50 TTM

TTM HIGHLIGHTS OF 2019

TTM 51

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