TTM Periodical | Issue 002 | April 2019

BI - Monthly Edition March - April 2019

www.traveltrademaldives.com ttm@traveltrademaldives.com / traveltrademaldives

ISSUE 002

International Travel Trade Periodical Published by Leading Travel Trade Show of Maldives - TTM

CHINA MARKET OVERVIEW

AHMED SAEED

GENERAL MANAGER AT MAAGIRI HOTEL

IN THIS ISSUE Statistics Government Market Overview Aviation Transport / Cruise Travel tech TTM Travel Agents Accommodations People Interviews Celebrity Wellness Food ITB Fair & Awards

ONE OF THE FEMALE DIVE MASTERS IN MALDIVES – AHMED SAEED GENERAL MANAGER AT MAAGIRI HOTEL SUHA SHAFIU

ALI RASHEED ADAM

DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING AT VILLA HOTELS

02 PEOPLE

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

OUR TEAM MANAGING DIRECTOR

Akhmeem Abdul Razzaq

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Dr. Hussain Sunny Umar

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Moothi

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Nashaath

Welcome to the second issue of “TTM

local island tourism. Further, the country

tourism industry including accurate and

Periodical”.

is promoted as a luxury travel destination

reliable forecasts from experts working in

TTM Periodical is a bi-monthly magazine

at many of the top travel fairs around the

the industry. The publication’s scope is to

published by Travel Trade Maldives (TTM)

globe every year. However, there lacks a

cover the entire Maldivian tourism industry,

- the leading and largest travel trade fair in

print publication that provides regular and

including travel, tourism, MICE, sports,

the Maldives - which aims to fill a gap that

reliable Maldives-related, travel and trade

spas, health, luxury travel, corporate travel,

currently exists in marketing Maldives to

industry-specific news and information that

guest houses, liveaboards, cruise liners,

the international audience.

is directly distributed to the top Maldives

travel tech, and so forth. Everything you,

holiday

markets. TTM Periodical aims to link

as a travel trade professional interested in

destination, there is no doubt about that. It

that gap by providing all the information,

Maldives, would want to know… we have it!

is the dream destination for travelers from

analysis and news about the Maldives to

Please enjoy reading our publication and we

every corner of the world! The number one

travel trade professionals residing in the

hope to see you again every other month.

bucket list item for many people. Hence,

best markets for Maldives.

there is a staggering amount of information

TTM Periodical includes features on current

about Maldives available online, and various

market trends, the latest news, detailed

print

information

analysis on relevant topics from experts in

about the country’s luxury resorts and

the region, and analytics of the Maldivian

Maldives

is

a

publications

world-famous

provide

DIRECTOR

Ibrahim Areef

DIRECTOR

Mohamed Khoorsheed

MANAGER

Ahmed Nasir

PHOTOGRAPHY DYNAMYST Lujainlah Zuhair

DESIGN DIRECTION CREATIVE TUNA Zaya Ahmed Zeina Shareef Hamdhoon W.

MARKETING & PUBLIC RELATIONS

Fathmath Maisaan Ali Sageef Ibrahim Hawwa Sana Rashad Nadwa Mohamed Mufeed Sana Shakir Copyright c 2019 Maldives Getaways Pvt. Ltd. Male’, Maldives, 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 Maldives Getaways Pvt. Ltd.

MALDIVES LEADING INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL TRADE SHOW

MEET THE TOP TRAVEL MEDIAS

The leading travel trade show in the world

Journalists and editors exclusively from

exclusively dedicated to selling Maldives.

10 travel and tourism media publications means worldwide exposure.

OVER 200 TOP OPERATORS

VISION 2023

PR EXPOSURE

Leading 200 operators from top 30 markets

2.5 million tourists annually by 2023

Top event compaines, publishers, location

to Maldives.

scouts across the globe

PRODUCED & PUBLISHED BY

OVER 100 PROPERTIES

SEARCH, CONNECT & PRESCHEDULE MEETINGS

USD 4 BILLION INDUSTRY

TTM hosts over 100 exhibitors, including

TTM Connects software allows you to

Over USD 4 billion tourism receipts annually

top resorts, hotels, airlines and other key

create your profile, message and pre-

in Maldives with over 1.4 million tourists

stakeholders of the tourism.

schedule meetings with buyers, visitors and

arrivals.

other exhibitors

PEOPLE 03

MMPRC ROADSHOW & FAIR LIST 2019 JAN 19 JAN 27JAN

BOOT

10 APR 12 APR

Dusseldorf, Germany

WTM AFRICA

SWISS, ROADSHOW

Cape Town, South Africa

Zurich, Geneva & Lugano

OTM, ONE WORLD MARKET

AUG

FRANCE, ROADSHOW

SOUTH AFRICA, ROADSHOW

SOUTH KOREA, ROADSHOW

Paris, Lyon, Marseilles,

Cape Town, Johannesburg,

Seoul, Busan

Coinciding with WTM Africa

Bombay Convention and Exhibition Centre, Mumbai, India

FITUR INTERNATIONAL TOURISM TRADE FAIR

15 APR 17 APR

(New Hall) National Agricultural Exhibition Center, Beijing, China

Parque Ferial Juan Carlos 1, 28042 Madrid, Apdo. De Correos 67.067, Spain

31 JAN 03 FEB

FESPO

28 APR 01 MAY

Zurich, Switzerland

EMITT, EAST MEDITERRANEAN INTERNATIONAL TOURISM & TRAVEL EXHIBITION

MAY

East Mediterranean International Travel & Tourism Exhibition, TUYAP International Exhibition Centre, Istanbul, Turkey

21 SEP 24 SEP

Dubai Coinciding with ATM

JUNE

MAR

25 SEP 27 SEP

Coinciding with IFTM Top Resa

EASTERN EUROPE, ROADSHOW

JAPAN, ROADSHOW

Warsaw, Prague, Budapest

Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya,

WORLD ROUTES

Fukuoka

NOV 04 NOV 06 NOV

WTM, WORLD TRAVEL MARKET London, United Kingdom Excel London, 1 Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London Docklands, E16 1XL, United Kingdom

ABAV Av. Olavo Fontoura, 1.209, Anhembi Parque, SP

UK, ROADSHOW Manchester, Glasgow, Scotland,

06 SEP 08 SEP

Dublin

MATTA

01 SEP 04 SEP

Coinciding with WTM

USA, ROADSHOW

Paris, France

Miami, New York, Chicago,

Paris Porte de Versailles Exhibition Centre, 75015 Paris, France

INDIAN, ROADSHOW

Messe Berlin GmbH, Messedamm 22, D-14055 Berlin, Germany

Mumbai, Delhi, Calcutta, Banglore, CHandigarh

OCT

MITT, Moscow International Travel & Tourism Exhbiton

09 OCT 11 OCT

TTG TRAVEL EXPERIENCE

Guangzhou, Chendgdu, Beijing

Krasnaya Presnya Exhibition Complex, ZAO Expocentre, Moscow, Russia

TTM Male’ , Maldives

MARINE DIVING FAIR

JULY NORDIC, ROADSHOW Helsinki, Copenhagen, Oslo, Stockholm

INTERNATIONAL LUXURY TRAVEL MARKET (ILTM) London, United Kingdom Excel London, 1 Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London Docklands, E16 1XL, United Kingdom

TBC

TTG Italia S.p.A - RIMINI FIERA -Via Emilia, 155 - 47900 Rimini, Italy

AUSTRALIA, ROADSHOW London, United Kingdom

16 OCT 181 OCT

ITB ASIA Singapore

11 JUNE 13 JUNE

03 DEC 06 DEC

Rimini, Italy

CHINA, ROADSHOW

Moscow, Russia

DEC

IFTM TOP RESA

Toronto

Berlin, Germany

Sunshine City Convention Center Hall, Ikebukuro, Tokyo, Japan

Milan, Rome, Florence

Sao Paulo, Brazil

ITB

Tokoyo, Japan

Hamburg, Munich, Stuttgart and Vienna

Kuala Lampur, Malaysia

Fiera Milano SpA, P.Iva C.F. 13194800150, S.S. Sempione 28 – 20017 RHO (MI), Milan, Italy

05 APR 07 APR

ITALY, ROADSHOW

Adelaide, Australia

BIT

APR

GERMANY, ROADSHOW

Riyadh, Jeddah, Abu Dhabi,

Milan, Italy

12 MAR 14 MAR

Coinciding with IFTM Top Resa

SEP

MIDDLE EAST & GCC, ROADSHOW

FEB

06 MAR 10 MAR

ATM, ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Istanbul, Turkey

10 FEB 12 FEB

Bordeoux

Coinciding with Germany RS

Dubai, UAE

Messe Zürich, Switzerland

31 JAN 03 FEB

COTTM, CHINA OUTBOUND TRAVEL & TOURISM MARKET Beijing, China

Madrid, Spain

JATA, TOURISM EXPO JAPAN Osaka, Japan

Durban

Mumbai, India

23 JAN 27 JAN

24 OCT 27 OCT

Tokyo Big Sight

Capetown International Convention Centre, Convention Square, Cape town, South Africa

Düsseldorf Exhibition Centre, Düsseldorf, Germany

23 JAN 25 JAN

B2B B2C Dive Trade

Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

ASEAN, ROADSHOW Singapore, Bangkok, KL, Taipei Coinciding with ITB Asia

Excel London, 1 Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London Docklands, E16 1XL, United Kingdom

04 STATISTICS

ASIA CONTINUES TO DOMINATE THE GLOBAL TRAVEL INDUSTRY Asia’s most middle-class groups spend their disposable

Travel intermediaries like Expedia, Booking Holdings

income on travel, boosting the travel industry in the

etc go throttle in expanding their businesses into Asia

region, according to 2019 report by Euromonitor

by engaging in business partnerships in the region.

International.

Other online travel intermediaries such as Ctrip and

The report highlighted the megatrends that are

Fliggy are today’s travel enablers in China, while

shaping the future of travel in India. It said that the

traditional travel intermediaries in Japan and South

region continues to enjoy strong performances in

Korea such as JTB and Hanatour are actively investing

both inbound and outbound travel.

in their online channels to meet demand from their

Countries such as South Korea, Australia, and China

constantly-connected consumers.

are global frontrunners in digital connectivity, the

The increase in travel spends by Asians is due to

report notes. Other countries such as Thailand,

positive geopolitical developments and sporting

Malaysia, and Indonesia are also gathering pace,

events boosting the region’s attractiveness. As the

developing user-friendly online booking platforms

next Summer Olympics, which is going to be held in

and convenient online payment systems.

Tokyo is around the corner, along with the next Winter

Travel becomes a hot sector in Asia, start-ups bet

Games in Beijing, there are high prospects of a rapid

high on new trends in the industry to get ahead of

growth in travel spends this year.

their competitors.

AMERICA – AN IMPORTANT MARKET FOR MALDIVIAN TOURISM INDUSTRY America is one of the top 10 tourist arrival countries in Maldives as per the statistics released by the Ministry of Tourism for the year 2018.

The tourist arrivals from America had increased considerably in 2018. 42,901 tourists arrived from America out of the total number of arrivals. Compared to the statistics in 2017 with 39,180, a 9.5% increase was seen in 2018. America occupied 2.9% from the total percentage of tourist arrivals in 2018.

Advertisements and promotional activities have been increased in America by the Maldives Marketing and Public Relation Corporation (MMPRC). MMPRC announced that they are looking for an agency to aid them in promoting Maldives in America along with them since 26 February 2019.

M7 AD

STATISTICS 05

ITALY – ONE OF THE LARGEST TOURIST MARKETS IN MALDIVES

The launching of Alitalia Airline in Maldive

Statistics

in 31st October 2017, increased the rate of

consistent rise in Italian tourist arrivals

tourists arrivals from Italy to Maldives.

since 2013. In addition, a rise in inflation

Alitalias’ chartered flights in 2018 recorded

to 6.4% in 2017 was seen in comparison to

a large number of tourist arrivals to Maldives

that of 5.5% in 2016, as per the Ministry

from Italy while the rates continued to rise

of Tourism. A total of 24.8% increase was

even in February 2019. In comparison to

seen in the Italian market in 2017.

2018, a 27.5% rise was seen in the tourist

The greatest number of tourist arrivals

arrival statistics. 17,795 tourists arrivals

from Italy is seen in December, January and

from Italy to Maldives has been accounted

February. On the other hand, the lowest

till February 2019 while 2018, 13, 962

arrivals are recorded in June and May.

Italian tourists visited Maldives in 2018.

20 20

Indian Ocean Business F estiva l

www.indianoceanbusinessfestival.com

released

in

2018

showed

06 GOVERNMENT

BRAND AMBASSADORS BEING GATHERED TO PROMOTE MALDIVES TOURISM Ministry of Tourism is now making attempts

be held is named after Maldives and the

on getting worlds famous athletes as

jerseys of Soccer School would have the

ambassadors to promote Maldivian tourism

name of Maldives printed on it.

industry. They are working on gathering

The government aims to attract 2.5 billion

brand ambassadors from different athletic

tourist per year, at the end of its five year

backgrounds as per the Tourism Minister

term. Meantime, they aim to attract 1.5

Honorable Ali Waheed.

billion tourists this year. To reach this goal,

In addition, Ministry of Tourism aims to

the government increased the budget for

sponsor in football leagues of countries

marketing the Maldivian tourism industry

from where most number of tourist arrivals

and assured that special activities will be

are recorded in Maldives. Tourism Ministry

done in order to promote Maldives.

has now sponsored U13 Intercontinental Cup held in Dubai. The sponsorship fee of the event was 25,000 USD. One of the football pitches where the event would

TOURISM MINISTER MR. ALI WAHEED MEETS TOURISM MINISTER OF INDIA A discussion concludes between the Tourism

this meeting. There were also discussions

Minister of Maldives Honorable Ali Waheed

on convenient ways to allow Indian tourists

and India’s Tourism Minister Mr. K.J

to access all of Maldives.

Alphons to promote the Maldives tourism

The original reason for his trip to India

industry on Honorable Ali Waheed’s official

is to take part in the 5th Global Summit

trip to India.

held in New Delhi from 22nd to 23rd

A discussion was carried out on the bond

February 2019. Along with Honorable Ali

between India and Maldives. Furthermore,

Waheed, the Mayors of Addu City, Male

ways and means by which the two countries

City, Fuvahmulah City and the President of

could work together in strengthening the

Kulhudhuffushi Council also participated in

tourism industry were highlighted during

this trip.

GOVERMENT 07

MMPRC AND MALDIVES GETAWAYS BEGINS FIRST SESSION OF MARKETING SEMINARS FOR GUESTHOUSES FROM AA. RASDHOO

MMPRC TO ORGANIZE A CAMPAIGN TO PROMOTE MALDIVIAN TOURISM INDUSTRY IN SOUTH EAST ASIA

The first session of Marketing Seminars

trends and statistics. They were also given

for guesthouses was held in AA Rasdhoo

information on social media marketing and

of 19th March 2019. These seminars are

different marketing strategies that they can

being conducted by Maldives Marketing &

use to promote their guesthouses.

Maldives Marketing and Public Relations

More than 93,000 tourists from South

PR Corporation (MMPRC) in association

The next seminar will be held on 20 March

orporation (MMPRC) is set to organize a

East Asia visited Maldives at the end of the

with Guesthouse Association of Maldives

2019 in AA. Ukulhas with 37 registered

special campaign to promote the Maldivian

year 2018. This is a 13.7% increase in the

(GAM) and Maldives Getaways, which is

participants. Similar marketing seminars

tourism industry in South East Asia.

number of tourists in comparison with the

in accordance to the current government’s

will be conducted from 23rd March to

MMPRC is now looking for an agency to

number of tourists who visited Maldives

100-day pledge to further develop the local

23rd May in Aa.Dhigurah, V.Thinadhoo,

help them organize the event. Interested

from South East Asia in 2017. Malaysia,

tourism industry of the Maldives.

B.Dharavandhoo,

Hdh.

parties now can express their interest in

Thailand, Philippines and Singapore are the

32 participants registered to participate

Hanimaadhoo, Addu City, Laamu Atoll,

aiding the carrying out of the campaign.

Southeastern Asian countries from where

in the first session held in AA Rasdhoo.

Gdh.Thinadhoo and K.Maafushi

Hulhumale,

They also aim to target the business to

the greatest number of tourists visited

During the session, the participants were

business and business to consumer market

Maldives in 2018.

familiarized on tourism industry market

in the event which will be held in Malaysia.

08 MARKET OVERVIEW

CHINA MARKET OVERVIEW

China is the most populated country in the

outbound trips more increasingly according

world with 1.4 billion people with India right

to a report by Ctrip and China Travel

behind. The country has been the world’s

Academy. According to a research published

most populated for centuries and reached

by Nielsen, out of the all the Chinese

the billion mark in 1980. China is among

tourists who traveled out of the country,

the world’s fastest-growing economies,

67% traveled to other Asian countries and

and its travel market is projected to grow

51% traveled to Hong Kong, Macao or

9-11% annually for the next several years.

Taiwan, while 38% went to Europe, 25% to

This continued growth is being driven

North America and 20% to Australia/New

by more citizens joining the traveling

Zealand. There are several reasons why

class,

Chinese including more convenient visa

improvements

infrastructure,

in

and

transportation

suppliers

and

procedures, more affordable prices and

intermediaries tailoring their products to

convenient transportation.

the Chinese traveler. Even though Chinese

According to Ctrip and China Travel

population is exponentially growing, their

Academy, China brings in the largest

economy showed the slow pace of growth

numbers of inbound tourists for regions

in 2018 with a low 6.6%. This is the lowest

such as Thailand, Japan, South Korea,

pace it has grown in 28 years according to

Vietnam,

CNBC.

North Korea, UK and South Africa.

In addition to their booming population,

Additonal information from the report by

which

the

Ctrip and CTA says that less than 10% of

government by limiting one couple to one

the country travels overseas and only 10%

child, outbound tourism has become is

are in possession of a passport.

highly in demand with Chinese tourists.

Nielsen lists these following features as

However, though the growth rate has shown

factors that affect the decision of Chinese

decrease, Chinese tourists are making

tourists when they make travels outside of

has

been

controlled

by

Russia,

Maldives,

Indonesia,

MARKET OVERVIEW 09

China. 56% of the decision made in choosing

of 139 billion USD and, it is calculated to

are categorized under an age group of 25-

China will continue to be connected and

a destination is the beauty and uniqueness

be 1.5 times bigger than the size of Asia-

34 years and they usually stayed at Maldives

more airlines will be able to operate in the

of tourist attractions in the country. The

Pacific’s second largest market, Japan and

for a duration of 4 nights.

future.

safety of the destination contributes 47%

around 40% of the US market.

There are several airlines that are operated

It is indeed saddening that Chinese tourists

when making the decision about where to

Looking at the Chinese market in Maldives,

in Maldives which travel to China. These

are becoming lower in number with time.

go. They then look at the easiness of the

China topped the list of the top markets

airlines provide a way for the Chinese

Gradually, the market keeps on declining

visa procedures which is equal to 45% of

in Maldives in 2010 and has stayed strong

tourists to come and enjoy the experiences

and hence, the Ministry of Tourism,

the process of making the decision. Another

since then. As per the statistics published by

that Maldives offers. Such airlines include

Maldives Marketing and Public Relations

factor which contributes 35% to making the

the Ministry of Tourism, in 2013, a total of

China Eastern, Beijing Capital, China

Corporations (MMPRC) and others who

decision is the friendliness of locals to the

331,719 Chinese tourists visited Maldives.

Southern Airlines, Cathay Pacific and many

are working for the betterment of Maldives

tourists while 34% is the affordability. As

Moving on to 2014, 363,626 tourists

other middle eastern carriers. With the

tourism industry are working on improving

it is, Chinese tourists who are more well-

arrived to Maldives, showing a gradual rise

help of these flight carriers, Maldives and

the tourist arrivals from China to Maldives.

off care less about the cost rather than the

of 9.6% which decreased in the following

experience that they are able to have.

year. 359,514 tourists arrived in Maldives

Nielsen also talked about the reasons why

in 2015 which is a -1.1 decrease from the

Chinese tourists travel. The major reason

previous year. In the year 2016, 324,326

why Chinese tourists travel outside the

tourist came to Maldives which again

country is because of leisure. They love

showed a decrease of -9.8%. 2017 showed

doing things like dining, trying out new

a smaller decrease of -5.5 in comparison

cuisine and shopping and etc. According to

with 306,530 tourists. 2018 brought about

the report, the greater part of the later 90’s

a decrease of -7.6 with 283,116 tourist

generation chooses to make adventurous

arrivals from China.

travels where as the post-80’s generation

According to Maldives Visitors Survey

are focused on food (58%) and shopping

conducted in September 2017, the main

(49%) while the post 70’s focus would rather

motivators which led to why Chinese

have a relaxing trip with a major focus on

tourists visiting Maldives are the beautiful,

leisure which equals to 82%.

sandy beaches of Maldives. Looking at

According to Phocuswright, China’s travel

the purposes of travel to Maldives include

market growth slowed a little in 2016 to 8%

spending a wonderful honeymoon, relaxing

in terms of renminbi and when converted

after years of hard work and just letting

to U.S Dollars, only showed a 1% growth.

themselves go and just resting. Majority of

The market is estimated to be worth a total

the Chinese tourists who were questioned

10 PEOPLE

AHMED SAEED

GENERAL MANAGER AT MAAGIRI HOTEL How did you get started in the hotel as foreseen by pioneers in terms of demand and the more we offer the less they What is your development of Infrastructure, the different demand’’, to make the all-inclusive concept industry? accomplishment?

greatest

phases of Technology in Engineering,

a success in Maldives.

I have been working in the Tourism Industry

Reverse Osmosis, Waste Management and

Another challenge I faced was that when

My greatest achievement for me was

for almost 30 years. I began my career at

Recycling, just to name a few. With the

I took over the management of Mirihi

receiving an Award of Recognition of

Meeru Island Resort and worked there for

growth of world-renowned brands that

island, an immediate refurbishment of the

long-standing service from the Ministry

almost 16 years. During that time, I got the

invested in Maldives and continue to do

premises and accommodations was vital. At

of Tourism. Whatever I am today is due

opportunity to be involved in developing 20

so, there is a significant competition in the

the time, I was then the GM for both Lily

to my belief, discipline, and ethics, the

rooms in thatched style at Gasfinolhu. Right

industry. I believe competition is healthy as

Beach and Mirihi.

experiences I’ve learned from the field and

after the development, I was promoted as

it makes services more efficient

the Resident Manager there. When I left Meeru in 1994, I had been working as the General Manager in the resort.

I took a break during my time at Meeru

What are some of the biggest challenges you faced in your line of work?

the unfailing advice I’ve listened from the

Why did you choose to work at Owners and Directors of Champa, Crown, Maagiri Hotel after a break from and Lily too. As you all know “Knowledge the industry? imparts and Wisdom listens.”

After a break of couple years directly from

to look after the property of Little Huraa for a couple of months. Later, I got the

Sandals Hotels and Resorts, a foreign

the Industry, I am back with a challenge

opportunity to visit Kuredu Resort’s opening

company were the pioneers of the ‘all-

to manage Maagiri Hotel. Maagiri has a

in 1988 and to enhance their kitchen

inclusive’ concept. In order to improve our

special history to be proud of as this was

operations and services. At this time, I also

services, plans to implement the concept in

the first property to have had tourists back

operated 3 Yachts of Meeru.

Maldives tourism industry was considered.

in the 1970s, then called as Maagiri Lodge.

Due to this, I faced with one of the biggest

This is a city hotel in the capital of Male’,

What are the changes you have challenges in my career to implement this located at the most prominent and prime location with a fantastic view during the seen in the tourism industry since concept at Lily Beach.

After facing major setbacks, hiccups, and day and a fabulous skyline during the night.

1982?

I have experienced tremendous growth

scrutinization, I quickly adapted to the

Maagiri is easily accessible via the bridge

theory of “the less we offer the more they

and by sea.

PEOPLE 11

ONE OF THE FEMALE DIVE MASTERS IN MALDIVES – SUHA SHAFIU Give us an introduction of yourself:

How is a regular day as a dive master like?

My name is Suha and I studied Hospitality and Tourism

If I have a dive at 2 pm, I would most likely go with an

in Singapore. I got my first internship in Ananthara Veli

instructor to either learn how to lead dives or assist in

which was for 6 months. Later, I went to Centara grand

courses or certified divers. Then I get my equipment

for another 6 months of internship. During that time,

ready and we would either go on the boat or the house

I was also helping with snorkeling and excursions as

reef to take them diving

I have always been interested in the water. I started working at Maalifushi since September 2016. I worked at the front desk until April 2018 and changed over to

What advice would you give to other women who want to pursue a career in diving?

the dive center.

What are the changes you have seen in the tourism

If you give it a chance and work a tourism environment

industry since 1982?

you will find that it is not that hard. You can go ahead in your field if you try hard enough. As per the Maldivians,

How did you start your career as a dive master?

it is not a job for girls. This is because they always see men carrying their tanks, dragging their trollies and teaching others how to dive. COMO Maalifushi was

After my first dive in 2010, I really wanted to be a dive

pretty good in the sense as there was no such thing

professional. The way to get there was a little hard

as a man’s job. Opportunities are open to everybody. I

because of the opinion of the society about woman

was able to do my job well because I got support from

and diving. I decided to do hospitality because, while

everybody including the management.

working in resorts, we are right next to the water. You can go for snorkeling and diving anytime during your

Can diving be considered as a safe sport?

afternoons too. It was very easy for me to get from point A to point B in the sense as everybody was very

Diving is a very fun and safe sport. It is not at all as

helpful. It is not so hard for a female anymore. While

dangerous as people think it is. Before you go on any

I was working at the front office, everybody knew that

dive, we tell you all the functions of the equipment

I was interested in the water. Since I said that I would

that you are wearing, so that you would know how to

do it if I was given the and the chance, I was given the

control yourself during the dive. It all depends on how

chance to transfer to the dive center. They helped me

comfortable you are. You do not have to go that deep

get all the certifications and now I am able to work as a

and you can end the dive if you want.

dive master. It didn’t take too long.

FURAVERI ISLAND RESORT AND SPA WELCOMED MOHAMED HILMY AS THE GENERAL MANAGER Furvaveri Island Resort and Spa has

Service Programme from Maldives College

welcomed Mohamed Hilmy as the General

of Higher Education, now known as the

Manager. Hilmy worked both locally and

Maldives National University.

internationally in the tourism industry and

His previous work experiences as a General

has acquired 24 years of experience in the

Manager also include working at Sun Aqua

field.

Vilu Reef, Olhuveli Beach Resort and Spa,

One

of

his

greatest

professional

and Sun Aqua Iru Veli. The compilation

achievements were working as the Hotel

of resorts he worked at for the past 24

Manager at the Angsana Bintan, Indonesia

years includes Hilton Maldives, Sun Island

and as the General Manager at Sun Aqua

Resort and Spa, White Sand Resort and

Pasikudah, Srilanka.

Spa, Angsana Velavaru and Banyan Tree

Hilmy started his journey in the Tourism

Vabbifaru.

Industry in 1995 when he joined Bandos Maldives.

While

working

in

Bandos

Maldives, he completed a General Hotel

12 PEOPLE than myself. So the management asked

industry. I also believe that the industry

me if I could take that responsibility and I

should be regulated to protect the interest

accepted it while continuing to develop my

of all parties.

own software. That was in 1994 and since

Another

then I’ve been working here in marketing.

imbalances and coral bleaching (El Nino

I have dedicated my time exclusively to

Effect) which caused the country to have an

marketing. Unfortunately, I could not keep

overall negative image globally. The 2004

up to date with the fast-paced software

Tsunami was another incident we can’t

development technology and am basically

forget. After the catastrophe, Maldives

an illiterate at computer programming now.

had to do a lot of aggressive marketing, as

challenge

was

the

political

hotels all over the country suffered from

What are some of the biggest challenges you faced in your line of work?

low occupancy.

What are some of your most notable success?

Due to the limited number of beds

ALI RASHEED ADAM

DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING AT VILLA HOTELS The Director of Sales and Marketing of

the first software engineers in Maldives to

Villa Hotels, Mr. Ali Rasheed Adam has

join Villa Group in 1992. During that time

been working in the Tourism industry for

Holiday Island and Paradise Island were

27+ years now. Started his career as a

under construction. A local professional

Software Developer and now known as

who was looking after reservations for

a Talented Professional Marketer in the

these resorts asked me if I could develop

Tourism Industry of Maldives. The following

a software to manage bookings and front

highlights his insights and experiences in

office. Back then, all the bookings were

the industry.

managed manually. He was the one who taught me how a resort functions, especially

How did you get started in the hotel the reservations and front office. He later industry? changed resorts and took over as the Reservations and Front Office Manager for Initially, I didn’t like working in the tourism

Paradise Island Resort when I was about to

sector because I was a person who wants to

finish coding the software. There was no one

go home early and also lacked knowledge

else at the Head Office who knew about the

of the tourism industry. I was also one of

allotments, rates and hotel contracts other

available at Maldivian resorts at the time,

One

of

my

accomplishment

we had no problem selling our quota

our contribution to bringing the Chinese

because operators guarantee allotments

market to Maldives with the help of the

as they mainly operate charter flights. Tour

Tourism Minister at the time. I visited China

operators were obligated to fill the flight

to introduce Maldives as a product but

seats anyway. Lots of attention was given

Maldives was not an approved destination

to control allotments to avoid overbooking.

for the Chinese to travel. Maldives was an

Our bookings were always guaranteed,

unknown destination for them. I spend two

except for May to July which are historically

weeks in China going from one travel agent

bad months. During that time guests didn’t

to the other. I also went to the Ministry of

have much flexibility to change the holiday

Foreign Affairs in China. Later, in 2000,

periods as their holiday duration depends

the Prime Minister of China visited and

on the chartered flight schedule. Later,

approved Maldives as a destination for

when the scheduled flights started, guests

Chinese travelers. Now they are the number

were provided with more options. Everyone

one market for Maldives.

says the main challenge in marketing and

Our

operation of a resort in Maldives is the

developing

costly transfers. This makes it difficult to

Russia and India are some of the major

sell online, especially the resorts away from

achievements I am very proud of.

contribution new

and

hard

markets

includes

work

like

in

Korea,

Velana International Airport.

What are your future plans in the for resort development and we had to work industry?

In 1997 the government released 14 islands hard to get the right kind of partners to fill the new island. The influx of too many beds

Maldives is a country that poses a lot of

in a short period of time was a challenge.

unique challenges. Maintaining harmony

Lately, many islands were leased without

and

any control or consideration to the image

is

of the destination. Increase in the number

responsibility of every citizen of this country

of high-end resorts and budget hotels is

to make sure that harmony exists. Political

a challenge for mid-range resorts. I am

differences should not impact the harmony

not against local island tourism or the

on

guesthouse industry. I strongly believe the

planning to build a high-end resort or 4 to

guesthouse sector of the industry should be

5-star entry level resort, do your research

more regulated in the interest of the entire

before you invest. My advice to young

S EC OND EDITION

| 11 - 13 JUNE 2019

tranquility unquestionably

this

of

the

destinations

essential.

destination.

It’s

Whether

the

you’re

PEOPLE 13

MOHAMED AMAAN PROMOTED AS SENIOR MARKET MANAGER OF MALDIVES AT AGODA Mohamed Amaan has been promoted as

beginnings as an e-commerce start-up

the Senior Market Manager of Maldives

based in Singapore in 2005, Agoda has

at Agoda. He has been working at Agoda

grown to offer a global network of 2 million

for over 6+ years now. In 2012, he joined

properties in more than 200 countries and

Agoda as an Assistant Market Manager and

territories worldwide. It provides travelers

worked his way up. Previously Mr. Amaan

with easy access to a wide choice of luxury

worked at Villa Hotels and Resorts as the

and budget hotels, apartments, homes,

Marketing and Promotions Manager.

and villas to suit all budgets and travel

Mr. Amaan holds an Honors Degree in

occasions.

Hospitality

Management

Agoda is part of Booking Holdings and

from Taylor’s College in Malaysia. He also

employs more than 4,000 staff in more than

completed his Higher Diploma in Hotel

30 countries. Agoda.com and the Agoda

Management from the same college.

mobile app are available in 38 languages.

and

Tourism

Agoda is one of the world’s fastest growing online travel booking platforms. From its

IBRAHIM INAZ APPOINTED AS THE RESORT MANAGER AT SAII LAGOON MALDIVES

Ibrahim Inaz has been appointed as the

and want to reach tangible results.” Ibrahim

Resort Manager at SAii Lagoon Maldives,

Inaz said on his LinkedIn profile.

Curio by Hilton. He was previously working

SAii Lagoon Maldives is the first Curio

at Huvafen Fushi Maldives as the Director

Collection by Hilton hotel in Maldives. It

of Operations. He is a CIMA certified

is managed by Singha Estate’s hospitality

Accountant with over 9+ years of experience

arm S Hotels & Resorts under a franchise

in the hospitality industry. He also holds an

agreement

ABE Diploma in Business Management.

Maldives is a part of CROSSROADS, the first

with

Hilton.

SAii

Lagoon

and largest integrated tourist destination “I am an energetic, live and optimistic

in the Maldives. The 198-room luxury

person. To me, it’s very important to find

resort is located in Emboodhoo Lagoon.

companionship, affection, and freedom at

The resort is 15 minutes away from Velena

my work. My strength is in doing things. I

International Airport by speedboat

work purposeful, enjoy working with people

RAS ERP PRODUCTS

RAS HRMS

RAS POS

RAS BUTLER

RAS ECOMMERCE

RAS TRANSPORT

RAS LO G IS TI CS

14 PEOPLE

3 INFLUENTIAL LOCAL TALENTS FROM THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY JOINED MILAIDHOO MALDIVES Three highly experienced and influential local talents in the tourism industry of Maldives Amjad Thaufeeg, Ibrahim Inad and Ahmed Naseem (Beyya) has joined Milaidhoo Maldives on 2nd April.

The three renowned hoteliers in the tourism industry of Maldives will actively work together to flourish the Front Office Management and the Sales & Marketing Department of Miladhoo Maldives.

AMJAD THAUFEEG

Amjad Thaufeeg joined as the Cluster

story like no other. Till the launch of The

Before he joined Milaidhoo, he was the

Hotel Management, Hospitality Industry,

Nautilus Maldives, Milaidhoo was the only

Front Office Manager at Vakkaru Maldives.

and Market Research.

high-end luxury resort managed and lead

Ahmed Naseem shared his experiences and

After completing a Degree in Tourism and

by a local General Manager. This inspired

insights on LinkedIn as below;

Travel Services Management from Taylor’s

me to join the amazing team of Milaidhoo.”

“I’m a dedicated manager with over 20

University, he joined Velaa Private Island as

“I will also be working at the amazing

years of experience in most valued brands

a Sales and Reservation Coordinator. His

Nautilus Maldives lead by Mohamed Ashraf,

in Maldives as well in the Middle East. I am

most recent posting was the Director of

one of the few local General Managers

an effective leader who excels by actively

Sales at Velaa Private Island.

in a high-end luxury resort. Nautilus is

involved in monitoring time management

going to bring a new level of luxury to The

and

Maldives.”

process to enhance operations. Working

“I am very excited to join these two amazing

in an international environment with

properties and its wonderful team.”

professionals of different nationalities,

suggesting

improvements

in

the

I have developed excellent capacities of

AHMED NASEEM BEYYA

IBRAHIN INAD

“It has always been a dream to work at

The Enthusiastic Manager, Ahmed Naseem

The newly appointed skillful Sales Director

Milaidhoo. I have heard amazing things

has been appointed as the Front Office

of Milaidhoo Maldives, Ibrahim Inad has

about this property from Travel Trade

Manager at Milaidhoo Maldives. Out of his

acquired over 15+ years of experience with

Partners and Guests – no wonder why it has

20 years of experience in the hospitality

a demonstrated history of working in the

been the number 1 on TripAdvisor for more

industry, he mostly worked at the Front

hospitality industry. His area of expertise

than a year. Milaidhoo also has an inspiring

Office Operations for over 11+ years.

includes Market Planning, E-commerce,

Director of Sales & Marketing at Milaidhoo Maldives and the Nautilus Maldives, with over 13+ years of experience in the tourism

managing people and teams”.

industry. As a highly trained individual, Amjad completed his Master’s in Business Administration from the Anglia Ruskin University in UK. His most recent posting was as the Director of Sales & Marketing at Kanuhura Maldives (2018).

We asked Amjad the reason why he wanted to join Milaidhoo and the Nautilus Maldives, He replied with ;

AVIATION 15

SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS TO OPERATE MORE FLIGHTS TO ADDU CITY More flights from South African Airways

are being scheduled. In addition to this,

(SAA) are scheduled to fly to Addu City

discussions are made to operate flights of

during mid-2019 as per the Tourism

SAA to various destinations in Maldives.

Minister Hon. Ali Waheed.

SAA began its operations to Addu City

The management of SAA noted during a

during 2018, resulting in more tourist

meeting with the Minister of Tourism that

arrival to Maldives from South Africa.

the flights operated by SAA to Addu City

Two tonnes of cargo can be imported to

are so far successful. Hence, more flights

Maldives during these flights.

VIA SETS NEW RECORD SEAPLANE MOVEMENT Velana International Airport (VIA) stated

international passengers, 4,269 domestic

that they recorded a seaplane movement

passengers totaling 21,992 passengers.

of 531 seaplanes on the 3rd of February

MACL explained that they carried 5,500

2019. Previously, the record was 517 and

passengers

it was recorded on the 23rd of December

seaplanes on that day.

2018.

A billion dollar project is being carried out in

While the record seaplane movement

order to develop and improve the facilities

has been replaced, the record airplane

in VIA. This development project includes

movement remains as 212 flights which

building a new runway, an international

was also recorded on the 23rd of December

terminal, a seaplane terminal, a fuel farm

2018.

and also a cargo complex. In addition to

On the day the airport experienced the

this, making more space for the parking

greatest

traffic

International

in

Airport

in

airlines can start operation by August 2019.

in the Maldives, Villa Air-Flyme is ready

Villa Air-Flyme is fully geared to commence

to diverse its operation by introducing

the operation between Male’ and the resort

seaplane service. Being in a country

clientele of the airline. Initially, the airline

which is geographically dispersed and

will start the operation with 4 DHC-6 300

by introducing dock to dock services in

Twin Otter aircraft and will be adding more

transferring passengers will be a move

to the fleet with the increase in demand.

whereby Villa Air-Flyme will be enhancing

Flyme is operated by Villa Air, which is part

the passengers’ experience in domestic

of Villa Group and operations began on 1st

traveling. The liveries of the first 4 seaplanes

October 2011 with one ATR 42-500 flying

released are reflecting the indigenous fishes

between Maamigili and Male’ Airport. Soon

of the Maldives.

after, Flyme expanded its operations to

Villa Air-Flyme will be launching the

other domestic airports with the addition

seaplane service in 2019 with the completion

of a second aircraft. Today, with 3 ATRs,

and opening of the New Seaplane Terminal

Flyme has broadened its service to over 79

at Velana International Airport. As such,

and more Resorts and Hotels in South Ari

Maldives Airports Company has confirmed

Atoll and Baa Atoll.

that the terminal will be completed and

and

Maldivian’s

December,

Velana

of the planes is also a part of this mega

recorded

17,723

project.

INTRODUCING SEAPLANE SERVICES BY VILLA AIR After 8 years of successful ATR operations

TMA

16 AVIATION

MANTA AIR HEADED TO BAA, THE HOME OF THE BIOSPHERE RESERVE Manta Air has announced to fly to Baa

Manta Air was founded in 2016 as a joint

Atoll Dharavandhoo which is known as the

venture between Deep Blue Private Limited,

home of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

a local company with multiple investments

Along with the announcement, they have

in tourism, and tourism pioneer Umar

also introduced a special promotional fare

Mohamed Maniku. The company was

for passengers traveling between Male’ to

created to cater to the need for more air

Dharavandhoo on 11th April to 18th April

travel options and to support the rapid

to celebrate the start of the new journey.

developments in the aviation industry in

The special fare only applicable for locals

light of the development of new airports

and work permit holders, costs MVR 499

and the fast-paced expansion of resorts

(one-way) for adults and MVR 246 (one-

and guesthouses across the country.

way) for children. After the second week of

Manta Air tickets for Dharvandhoo are now

operations, Manta Air schedules to have 3

available for purchase online from www.

direct daily flights between Dharavandhoo

mantaair.mv or through their authorized

and Velana International Airport providing

Passenger Sales Agents. Reservations can

21 flights weekly. The airline is also in the

also be made by calling, +960 3314477 or

process of acquiring Twin Otter seaplanes

+960 7994405 during standard business

in order to launch its seaplane service in the

hours.

second quarter of 2019.

STRUCTURE OF SEAPLANE TERMINAL IN VIA COMPLETED

The structure of the seaplane terminal

terminal began on the 29th of January

at Velana International Airport (VIA) has

2018 by Beijing Urban Construction Group

been completed. This is a part of the mega

(BUCG) of China.

project to develop and improve the facilities

In addition to this, 3.2 hectares of land

given in VIA.

were reclaimed by BUCG to build the

The structure of the seaplane terminal is

seaplane terminal in order to accommodate

entirely completed and the remaining is

the largest seaplane fleet in the world. This

roofing and masonry works as per the tweet

seaplane fleet is operated by Maldivian and

by Maldives Airports Company Limited

Trans Maldivians Airways (TMA).

(MACL). Construction of the seaplane

TRAVEL TECH 17

LANIAKEA TECH INTRODUCES E-COMMERCE WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT SOLUTION The leading smart technology solutions

limitless as e-commerce platforms do not

company Tech

in

the

introduces

development

with

Maldives,

Laniakea

come with store operating hours, making

e-commerce

website

it convenient for customers to purchase

gateway

products from an online store.

payment

integration in the Maldives.

Laniakea Tech was the IT consultant for the

Managing Director of Laniakea Tech, Mr.

recently launched, Koo.mv, which is largest

Ali Akhtar stated that the e-commerce

e-commerce platform in the Maldives. In

solutions will be suited for any business

addition to Koo.mv, Laniakea Tech also

seeking to take their products or services to

launched a transport management software

the online market. Mr. Akhtar added that

solution for resorts as a component of RAS

the ability for customers to pay online adds

ERP as well as the first cloud-based HR

more convenience and will help drive more

management software (RAS HRMS).

revenue for the business.

For further information, you may contact

Hosting an e-commerce site is more

+960 964 5444, or email to tech@

cost effective in comparison to the costs

laniakea.mv. You may also visit Laniakea

incurred while operating a physical store.

Tech Facebook page for future updates.

Additionally,

the

revenue

potential

is

KIHAA MALDIVES INTRODUCED A MOBILE APP FOR GUEST SERVICES Kihaa Maldives has introduced an App

Kihaa Maldives is located right at the heart

that caters to extensive guest needs. The

of the world famous biosphere reserve

app was launched by the Vice President of

‘Hanifaru Bay’ where giant mantas and

Maldives Faisal Naseem at the ITB Berlin,

whale sharks thrive seasonally in feeding

the world’s largest travel trade show held

frenzies. They have 124 villas, combining

from 6th to 10th March.

contemporary and classic features such

The App is now available now on Android

as elegant furniture, romantic four-poster

and coming soon to the Apple Store, the

beds, and exotic rattan lounge seats.

app gives guests unparalleled access to

The resort has recently unveiled an

everything on offer at Kihaa Maldives both

exquisite new infinity pool and bar along

before and during their stay. They offer the

with a delightful extension to the Malaafaiy

guests a direct channel of communication

Restaurant, and new a cozy Wine Loft,

to the staffs. This is one of the best ways

Hanifaru Bay Tea House with private sand

to ensure that guests feel welcome and

castle dining where guests can expect the

wanted at the property.

same quality of service throughout.

Some key features of the app include: - Request room upgrades - Make dining reservations - Identify daily activities happening on the island - Book a range of services such as in-villa dining - Special requests such as anniversary, birthday celebrations - Information about the resort such as special offers

18 TRAVEL TECH

OOREDOO MALDIVES SHOWCASES AI POWERED DIGITAL CARE ASSISTANT “EVEE” AT MWC BARCELONA 2019 Ooredoo Maldives today demonstrated

from the technology industry, and we

Artificial

Digital

are honoured to represent the Maldives

Solutions at MWC Barcelona (Mobile

and showcase our home-grown digital

World Congress) in Spain, which brings

innovations on this powerful platform.”

together the latest innovations and leading-

Continuing its efforts to revolutionize digital

edge

of

customer experience in the Maldives,

leading companies across the globe. This

Ooredoo unveiled “Evee” an AI Powered

year, Ooredoo Maldives showcased its

Digital Care Assistant which transforms

upcoming AI powered Artificial Intelligence

customer interactions through Bots on its

powered Digital Care Assistant “Evee” and

traditional channels (Voice and SMS), as

launched “Moolee” – a smart e-Commerce

well as a multitude of digital channels such

Marketplace Platform which enhances the

as Facebook Messenger, Twitter, Viber,

consumer journey for both buyers and

Telegram and WhatsApp for Messaging.

sellers.

Bot led interactions will also be available

Najib

Intelligence

technology

Khan,

powered

from

Chief

thousands

Executive

Officer,

through Alexa and Google Assistant for

Ooredoo Maldives, said: “As we look

Voice Channels via Smart Home Devices.

towards the 5G revolution, we are making

The repetitive nature of call centres is

heavy investments in artificial intelligence

opportune for AI and machine learning

and

IoT

enabled predictions. By utilising “Evee”,

solutions which will allow us to fulfil the

Ooredoo can enable the automation of all

rapidly evolving needs of our customers

customer experiences from inquiries and

and reimagine the digital future. MWC

fulfilment to promotions, for the provision

Barcelona brings together thought-leaders

of more effective and faster services.

machine

learning

powered

Complete suite of products for the hospitality industry Whether your are a small or large hotel, an independen t travel agent or tour operator AxisRooms has got you covered

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TRAVEL AGENTS 19

HUMMINGBIRD TRAVEL CERTIFIED TRAVELLER MADE 1ST GRAND DMC CHAMPION

Hummingbird Travel qualified to become a

Hummingbird Travel is an award-winning,

2018 Certified Traveller Made 1st Grand

wholesaler and ground handler for the

DMC Champion. In the Traveller Made

Indian Ocean, specializing in the Maldives,

DMC Certification program 2018, 21 DMC

Sri Lanka, Mauritius, and Seychelles.

Champions qualified as 1st Grand DMC

They have been operating in the Indian

Champions out of 77 total certified, out of

Ocean for over 27 years and have an

98 assessed.

unrivaled knowledge of the destinations.

On top of that, the Managing Director of

Hummingbird is one of the world’s largest,

the HummingBird Travel Mr. Alex Chamber

independent suppliers of accommodation

was

to the Indian Ocean and they specialize in

nominated

as

the

Outstanding

Expertise, Friendliest DMC Owner/GM at the Traveller Made 2018.

luxury.

20 ACCOMODATION

“TOURISM FOR ALL MEANS TOURISM WILL NOT BE COMPLETE WITHOUT HOMESTAY” – ATP Following talks about homestay tourism,

framework and working towards legitimizing

Maldives

this aspect of the industry.

Association

Professionals

(ATP),

of

Tourism

advises

upon

ATP highlights that this would aid in bringing

exploration of options on how homestay

over 2 million tourists to the Maldives as

tourism could be legalized in the Maldives.

homestay would touch the side of Maldives

We believe that this would be an extremely

many do not get to see. As most visitors

practical and ideal idea for the Maldives as

stay at a resort for their vacation and leave

a country made up of an archipelago of little

without experiencing the real side of the

islands which would make an ideal getaway

country, ATP believes that homestay is the

for tourists that visit the Maldives. It would

way to go to achieve this goal.

also allow the locals in the islands to earn a living in the safety of their own little homes.

Ooredoo Maldives also participated in the

“Homestay tourism needs to be sanctioned

Mobile World Congress in Barcelona last

in Maldives,” Said Dr. Sunny Umar, President

year, where it showcased digital innovations

of ATP. “With all the local tourist friendly

such as its popular Ooredoo Next platform,

islands, it is important to realize that in

as well as Magey Plan. It will continue

order to increase the number of visitors to

efforts to invest in new technologies and

Maldives, we should be able to target all

services which can enrich the lives of

classes of people and allow them to take in

Maldivian people.

the joys of the country. Hence, homestay

Visitors to MWC Barcelona can check the

tourism will allow even those who cannot

Ooredoo pavilion in Hall 2H60 at MWC19

afford resorts or guesthouses to enjoy some

at Fira Gran Via, Fira Montjuïc and La

luxuries of our beautiful islands.”

Farga L’Hospitalet, Barcelona, from 25 –

ATP

advises

to

legalize

this

highly

28 February 2019. Live updates are also

misunderstood and rarely promoted sector

available on the company’s website and

of tourism with a regulatory framework

social media channels.

to support it. The association is open to

.

offering their expertise in building such a

THE FIVE STAR VARU BY ATMOSPHERE TO OPEN IN OCTOBER 2019 “The Five Star Varu by Atmosphere”

fifth resort operated by Atmosphere Hotels

established by Atmosphere Hotels and

and Resorts. Resorts currently being

Resorts is set to open in October 2019.

operated by Atmosphere Hotels and Resorts

Varu, located in north-west edge of Male’

includes Ozen by Atmosphere at Maadhoo

features 104 villas, each containing a private

Island, Atmosphere Kanifushi, Oblu Select

pool. These villas include 39 beach villa and

at Sangeli and Oblu by Atmosphere at

69 water villas and reflects Maldivian local

Helengeli. Atmosphere Resorts and Hotels

heritage and culture.

is a Maldivian brand introduced to the

The Five Star Varu by Atmosphere also

Maldivian Hospitality industry during 2013.

offers additional facilities such as a dive and

Maldivian people.

water sports center, a spa and gymnasium.

Visitors to MWC Barcelona can check the

Varu also contains a “Disk Club” specially

Ooredoo pavilion in Hall 2H60 at MWC19

designed for kids. The reef of Varu is known

at Fira Gran Via, Fira Montjuïc and La

to be a home for various species such as

Farga L’Hospitalet, Barcelona, from 25 –

Manta Ray, allowing you to have a great

28 February 2019. Live updates are also

snorkeling and diving experience.

available on the company’s website and

The Five Star Varu by Atmosphere is the

social media channels.

ACCOMODATION 21

FAARUFUSHI MALDIVES OPERATED BY UNIVERSAL RESORTS OPENED

Faarufushi, a member of Small Luxury

view of the infinity pool presenting unlimited

Hotels of the World operated by Universal

views of the sea. The crescent-shaped

Resorts has opened in the first week of

overwater signature restaurant, Eclipse

March. The Island is situated in Nothern

offers an immersive gourmet experience

Raa Atoll and 50-minutes away from Velana

and a non-obstructed panoramic view. At

International Airport by Seaplane.

the reef’s edge is Boli, with seating open to

Alongside the grand opening, they have

the sky, offering a guaranteed sunset view

introduced Promotional Packages starting

throughout the year, complemented with

from 5th March to the end of October.

the finest wines, carefully crafted cocktails

Furthermore, there will be a discount of

and music.

40% until the end of April, continued by a

Athiri is a casual beachside gathering

discount of 30% until the end of October.

bringing several island facilities together,

This

80

including water sports and gym overlooking

contemporary villas situated on both the

the beach and ocean. Athiri’s centrepiece

beach and over the lagoon. 10 Beach

is the collection of dining options serving

Bungalows and 27 Beach Retreats with

tapas, teppanyaki and more, under one

Pool. In addition, there are 39 sleek Ocean

roof.

Retreats with Pool stilted over the azure

Faarufushi

lagoon of Faarufushi. The three Ocean

developed by Faarufushi Investment Pvt

Suite with Pool and the Island Residence

Ltd and managed by Universal Resorts

with Pool offer the ultimate sanctuary with

Management Pvt Ltd.

an infinity pool overlooking at its very own

Universal Resorts operates the largest resort

stretch of the Indian Ocean.

collection in the country, including iconic

Indulgent dining choices offered with

properties such as Kurumba Maldives,

the highest quality ingredients in three

Velassaru Maldives, Kuramathi Maldives,

restaurants and two bars at Faarufushi.

Baros Maldives, Kandolhu Maldives, Dhigali

An all-day dining restaurant Iru, located

Maldives, Maafushivaru, and Milaidhoo

next to the Sangu Bar has an overlooking

Island Maldives.

private

island

resort

has

is

an

island

owned

and

22 ACCOMODATION

INNAHURA MALDIVES RESORT BY CROWN AND CHAMPA OPENS Innahura Maldives Resort established by Crown and

In addition to Innahura Maldives Resort, Crown and

Champa Resorts in Lhaviyani Atoll has opened on 6th

Champa also operates a large number of resorts

March 2019.

such as Huravalhi Maldives, Kudadhoo Private Island,

Innahura Maldives Resort which was established by

Kuredhdhoo Island Resort and Spa, Komandoo Island

one of the leading resort operators contains 33 Sunset

Resort and Spa, Meeru Island Resort and Spa, Mirihi

Beach Bungalows, 45 Sunrise Beach Bungalow and also

Island Resort, Veligandu Island Resort and Spa and

bungalows specially designed for families. Moreover,

Vilamendhoo Island Resort and Spa.

there is a water sports center, a dive center, a gym, and a ‘Dhuniye’ brand spa as well as a wide range of excursions.

JW MARRIOTT MALDIVES RESORT AND SPA SET TO OPEN IN JULY 2019 Viceroy Resort developed in Sh. Vagaru has been

Maldives Resort and Spa also contains a rooftop

rebranded by JW Marriott and is to be open in July

restaurant, a spacious wine cellar, a kids club and a

2019 under the name of JW Marriott Maldives Resort

vibrant reef showing the marine beauty of the Maldives

and Spa. JW Marriott is one of the most luxurious

as per the General Manager, Mr. Marc Gussing.

hotels and resorts brand by Marriott International.

Marriott International runs 422 hotels in 60 different

JW Marriott Maldives Resort and Spa is a 55 minutes

countries. Marriott International was merged with

flight from Velana International Airport (VIA) and is 192

Starwood Hotels in 2016. Starwood Hotels operated

km away from Male’ City. The resort contains 68 water

three resorts in the Maldives before the two companies

villas, each with its own private pool. JW Marriott

merged.

NEW LUXURY VILLA OPENED IN SONEVA FUSHI A new villa has been developed in Soneva Fushi, by the

room where you can detox yourself without leaving the

name of “Villa 37” with a Moonlight Table which rises

villa. In addition to this, the villa also contains a library

above the roof of the villa. The Moonlight Table allows

and a TV lounge.

you to watch sunrise and sunset from a panoramic

Villa 37 also consists of a spacious living room, a walk-

height of 36 feet, which is the highest peak of the

in minibar and a kitchen and dining room with the roots

island.

of trees extending overhead. 6 adults and 4 children

Villa 37 is roughly 20,000 square feet with 5 bedrooms.

can easily be accommodated in this spacious villa. Villa

Villa 37 also includes two luxurious outdoor bathrooms,

37 is listed in the ownership program of Soneva where

a freshwater pool with a water slide, a kids pool, a

these private residences are available for purchase.

personal gym for yourself and also, a sauna and steam

ACCOMODATION 23

ANGSANA VELAVARU MALDIVES CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts launches its

programmes organized for its female

International Women’s Day campaign as

employees.

a homage to the immense contribution of

One such programme is the well- known

women around the world in line with the

Banyan Tree Spa Academy Phuket founded

global commemoration of International

in 2001 with the mission of providing

Women’s Day on March 8th.

career

In lieu of this year’s theme BalanceforBetter,

women. Banyan Tree also provides an

Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts would like

excellent work environment for women

to give back to the wider community by

in

offering guests 38% off Best Available

career development, as evidenced by

Room Rates who book accommodation at

its consistently high ratings in biannual

any of the 38 participating Banyan Tree

Associate Satisfaction Surveys, by its female

properties. Sharing sentiments on gender

associates.

equality, Applelynn Teo, AVP, Gallery Design

This special campaign sees 38 Banyan

& Production commented “Gender equality

Tree,

to me is putting all these judgments aside

properties across the world participating,

and being objective. What are we going to

offering guests bespoke romance, thrilling

do today as a team and everyone is equal.”

adventures, fresh experiences, and youthful

Championed by co-founder and women’s

escapes. The booking window for Banyan

rights advocate Ms. Claire Chiang, the

Tree’s International Women’s Day campaign

global

is from 4 to 15 March 2019 for stay dates

Singaporean

hospitality

group

has long been a supporter of women’s empowerment as demonstrated by the

Online Grocery Supermarket

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Minimum order MVR.100

Male’ & Hulhumale’

options

terms

of

and

opportunities

empowerment,

Angsana,

Dhawa,

and

from 4 March to 30 June 2019.

for

benefits,

Cassia

24 ACCOMODATION

ACCOR REBRANDS AND LAUNCHES A NEW LOYALTY PROGRAM Accor will be spending $255 million on a new

hospitality,” in the sense of it being complete,

loyalty program called ALL, which stands

immediate, seamless, personalized and

for “Accor Live Limitless. Sébastien Bazin,

easily accessible through a single platform.

Chief Executive Officer of AccorHotels said

Its new loyalty program ALL has wasted

he will spend 99.9 percent of his time to

no time in signing a global multi-year

build “teams, brands, loyalty.”

partnership

Along with the new loyalty program, which

dubbed

replaces Le Club AccorHotels, Accor has

football club. Accor and the football club

also launched a new corporate logo which

announced that they have signed a global

drops the word hotels. Bazin actually added

multi-year partnership agreement. Accor’s

‘hotels’ over three years ago to Accor’s core

new lifestyle loyalty platform ALL will

name but is reversing it because “we’ve

become the principal partner and official

been doing so much more than hotels,” he

jersey sponsor of the club starting from the

said.

2019/2020 season.

The new loyalty program will be delivered

“We are the biggest hotel operator on the

through a new app and website that is

planet. We basically serve 265 million

designed to allow members access to

clients on the planet every year; it’s almost

Accor’s over 30 hotel brands, a collection

1 million people a day. Why can’t we just

of bars, restaurants and nightclubs and

admit it, talk about it, invest basically in

“money can’t buy” experiences. The group

what matters the most and basically show

describes the offering as “augmented

who we are?” Bazin said.

with

the

Paris

world’s

Saint-Germain, fastest-growing

RASDHOO VIEW INN IS THE FIRST GUESTHOUSE IN RASDHOO TO BAN SINGLE USE PLASTICS Rasdhoo View Inn is the first Guesthouse in

plastic water bottles used daily in the

Alif Alif Rasdhoo to Ban Single Use Plastics

Capital Male’ alone, the prevalence of

by introducing a custom-made glass bottle

plastic such as bags, bottles, and wrappers

to serve their guests. This initiative was

in the Maldives is at a worrying level,” said

taken by the General Manager of Rasdhoo

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

View Inn Hussain Simaau.

“We agreed to stop single-use plastics from

Following the example set by President

today and we are happy to be the First

Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Foreign Ministry

Guesthouse in Rasdhoo to Ban Single Use

chooses an alternative to single-use plastic,

Plastics,” said Hussain Simaau, the General

with Minister Shahid launching a Campaign

Manager of Rasdhoo View Inn.

to minimize Single-Use Plastic in the Maldives Foreign Affairs, in its efforts to

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has also

protect & preserve the environment.

launched a campaign to minimize singleuse plastics.

“With more than 280,000

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

ACCOMODATION 25

AMILLA FUSHI DEBUTS NEW SKYHOUSE BUBBLE Amilla Fushi is setting a luxury resort

The Skyhouse with Bubble provides the

trendsetter by introducing the very first

adventure of a lifetime, designed for

Skyhouse Bubble tent concept in Maldives.

destination dinner and breakfast served

It was officially opened by the Maldives

with experience from sunset to sunrise.

tourism minister Ali Waheed, at a ribbon-

Amilla Fushi is located just 30 minutes by

cutting ceremony at ITB Berlin on March 6.

seaplane from Velana International Airport.

They offer a choice of 59 Houses that sit

The Skyhouse is located at a tranquil treetop

gracefully over crystal clear waters, nestle

eyrie with an own private transparent

among lush treetops or hug the shores of

Bubble,

12

pristine white sand and eight spectacular

meters up between a canopy of lush palms

four- to eight-bedroom Beach Residences

and the vast Maldivian skies. Encircled by

ideally suited to large families, groups of

swaying palms, and measuring 4 meters

friends and VVIPs seeking the ultimate in

in diameter, the Bubble’s interior features

space and privacy.

breathtakingly

suspended

custom-fitted wooden floors, a rotating daybed, telescope, Bang & Olufsen sound

Amilla’s innovative restaurants range from

system, and bespoke furnishings.

the diverse, informal foodie hub Baazaar to the relaxed yet sophisticated overwater

A

removable

cover

provides

solar

dining at the signature Feeling Koi. Guests

protection during the day – and come

can even drop into gourmet café and deli

nightfall, unfettered views of the star-

The Emperor General Store or The Wine

studded heavens above. In addition to

Shop & Cellar Door to treat themselves

this, the Skyhouse with Bubble also boasts

to lighter snacks, a favorite bottle or a

serene living spaces and a private infinity

gourmet selection of artisanal cheeses.

pool cantilevered out amongst the treetops.

CORAL RESTORATION PROJECT HELD IN AA. UKULHAS Workshops have been conducted about

participants to actively participate in coral

Coral Restoration and Propagation in

propagation.

AA. Ukulhas from 18th to 21st March

Coral Doctors are a non-profit organization

2019 by the Coral Doctors. Their mission

scientifically supported by the German

is to transfer knowledge about coral

Oceanographic Museum of Stralsund. Coral

propagation

local

Doctors was founded after more than 60%

communities in Maldives. The workshops

of the coral reefs were hit by ‘bleaching’

are held in association with the German

during the year 2016. During that time,

Oceanographic Museum. They empower

meetings were held with guesthouses and

Maldivians to protect their underwater

surveys were conducted in 2017.

environment.

During the survey, the coral reefs and the

Participants of the workshop were awarded

growth rates of corals were observed in

certificates on completion of the four-day

order to choose suitable locations for coral

workshop, where the participants get first-

propagation. Up to date, Coral Doctors

hand experience in coral propagation.

have successfully propagated corals in

Similar workshops have been conducted

different locations of Maldives.

and

restoration

to

by Coral Doctors in K. Maafushi and AA. Rasdhoo recently.

During

the

importance

workshop, of

the

the

coral

ecological reefs

was

discussed. Effective methods for coral propagation along with successful strategies for restoration of reefs are also discussed during the workshop. The workshop was run for a duration of four days and allowed

26 ACCOMODATION

MALDIVES ECO-RESORT OF THE YEAR – SIX SENSES LAAMU

DUSIT THANI MALDIVES SOLD FOR 63 MILLION DOLLARS Dusit Thani Maldives Resort, which is being

both the seller and the buyer company.

handled by Thai company;

Explaining how so, the company says that

Dusit Thani Plc. (DTC) in Baa Atoll has

the seller will receive financial benefits and

been sold for 63 million dollars. The resort

the buyer will find themselves gaining the

was sold to a subsidiary company under

trust of the investors.

Dusit Thani Plc ; Dusit Thani Freehold and

Dusit Thani Maldives is being operated

Leasehold Real Estate Investment Trust

in Baa Atoll with 94 villas in the resort. It

Company.

includes 5 restaurants and offer world-

As per DTC, this is a profitable move for

class spa services within the resort.

The leading Eco-Resort title was taken by

Waste – Bottled their own desalinated water

Six Senses Laamu at the Maldives Travel

in reusable glass bottles, avoiding 226,600

Awards 2018. The award was presented

single-use plastic bottles in 2019.

to Six Senses Laamu by the Maldives

Plastic Free – 21 schools and pre-schools in

Association of Travel Agents and Tour

Laamu Atoll were donated reverse osmosis

Operators (MATATO)

water filters, as well as 30 households

The resort operations include a corporate

in L.Maamendhoo. 3,949 students and

sustainability guideline which targets to

families now have access to safe, reliable

optimize energy efficiency, reduce water

drinking water and will avoid bringing more

consumption, limit chemical usage, increase

than 1,360,000 single-use plastic water

garden and food production, source locally,

bottles to school each year.

recycle materials, treat people equitably,

Composting – A wood chipper machine is

give back to local communities and protect

used to combine food waste and organic

the ecosystems.

waste from landscaping to be composted

Guest awareness into being environmentally

into organic soil for the gardens. The

conscious is given importance by Six Senses

resort produced 22,597 pounds (10,250

Laamu, both on vacation and when they

kilograms) of compost in 2018.

depart to home.

Leaf Garden – Production of 16, 424

“Being named Maldives’ Leading Eco-

pounds of more than 30 different varieties

Resort is an amazing achievement, but

of organic herbs, salad leaves, microgreens

sustainability is always a work in progress,”

and sprouts for kitchens and bars. Further

Mr. Marteyne van Well, general manager,

20 kinds of chilies and two varieties of

said of the award. “We are constantly

mushroom.

learning from our peers and improving

Kukulhu Village – Growth of a chicken farm

service in order to stay competitive and we

which produced a total of 1,750 organic

readily share our knowledge with others so

eggs in their first eight months on the island.

that they too can create a positive impact

Sustainability Fund – Point five of one

with their business.”

percent of total resort revenues, 50 percent

Highlights of sustainability measurements

of water sales, and 100 percent of soft toy

taken by Six Sense Laamu, 2018

sales are allocated towards local projects

Water – Low-flow fixtures installed on

that benefit the surrounding environment or

taps and showers helped to reduce water

communities. Additionally spent USD 204,

consumption by 25 percent and 227,780

556 in 2018 on research and conservation,

ft3 (6,450 m3) of grey water was recycled

education and outreach, and community

for landscaping

development in Laamu Atoll.

ACCOMODATION 27

THE MURAKA RESIDENCE AMONGST THE TOP 10 MOST AMAZING HOLIDAYS ON EARTH THE

Conrad

deck), while the main bedroom is five metres

Maldives is included among the top 10 most

below the surface of the ocean, giving an

amazing holidays on Earth as reported by

entirely new meaning to the term ‘sleeping

the CEO magazine.

with the fishes’.

The Muraka is the world’s first underwater

On the contrary of the Extraordinary dining,

Hotel Villa. It is connected by the jetty

expansive living, sleeping and relaxing with

to the Hilton’s Conrad Hotels Maldives

infinite ocean views above the surface and

Rangali Island resort in the Maldives. The

undersea bedroom and living space, there’s

experience costs $50,000 a night and the

also a dedicated team of staff and butlers

two-story structure cost $15 million to

ensure that every stay is exceptional. Four

build.

dedicated butlers live in a nearby structure

This

MURAKA’

residence

breath-taking

in

two-level,

three-

to facilitate 24/7 service, and everything

bedroom residence offers an unparalleled

from a chef to an on-call fitness trainer,

experience. Split over two levels, the villa

plus a speedboat for you to use at will, is

has a living area above water (complete

included in the A$50,000-a-night price tag.

with a dining room, gym, pool and outdoor

THE RESIDENCE MALDIVES AT DHIGURAH SET TO OPEN IN JUNE 2019 The

Residence

Dhigurah

Maldives at Dhigurah, each with a private

established in the southern edge of

pool. There are two bicycles for each villa

Huvadhoo atoll is set to be open in June

of the resort. Dhigurah resort also has an

2019.

infinity pool of a length of 42 meters. In

The largest resort in Huvadhoo Atoll,

addition to this, Dhigurah also includes a

Dhigurah is connected to The Residence

dive and water sports center.

Maldives

Resort,

In order to recruit employees for The

operated by The Residence Maldives by a

Residence Maldives at Dhigurah, open days

1km bridge.

were held in Huvadhoo Atoll, Addu City and

There are 173 villas in The Residence

Male’ City.

at

Maldives

at

Falhumaafushi

SOUTH PALM RESORT MALDIVES TO OPEN IN JUNE 2019 South Palm Resort Maldives by South Palm

An open day is being held in order to

Maldives Private Limited is set to open in

recruit employees for the opening of South

June 2019. South Palm Resort Maldives

Palm Resort Maldives. Open days are to

is established in the uninhabited island of

be held in Addu Atoll Hulhumeedhoo and

Ismehela Hera is located in Addu Atoll.

Hithadhoo on the 29th and 30th of March

The resort is to be developed with 110 water

respectively. The event is scheduled to be

villas, 30 ocean villas, and 70 separate

held in Fuvahmulah City on the 1st of April

rooms. A total of 130 villas were developed

2019.

during the first phase of development and

Around 700 employees are to be recruited

rest are to be developed during the second

for the positions as per the management

phase of development. The resort will also

of South Palm Resort Maldives. Several

be connected to Kedeva Hera by a small

opportunities are available in Human

bridge as per South Palm Private Limited

Resources, Finance, Procurement, Sales,

and water villas would be developed in both

Engineering, Marketing, Culinary, Water

islands.

Sports and Transports departments.

28 CELEBRITY NEWS MR. EVGENI PLUSHENKO TO HONOR 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF ICE RINK AT JUMEIRAH VITTAVELI Mr. Evgeni Plushenko, a four time Gold

in it. Along with him, there also will be

Medal winning Olympic figure skater and

a Saxophone & DJ performance by the

three time world champion, will be visiting

Melody Duo to celebrate the occassion.

Jumeirah Vittaveli to honor the one year

The opening of the museum will take place

anniversary of the ice rink in the resort. He

on 20th March 2019.

had also visited the resort on 20th March

The ice rink, named Ice Ice Maybe, has been

2018 to inaugurate this ice rink as well, as

dubbed as a groundbreaking innovation in

per Jumeirah Vittaveli.

the Maldives. It was opened with the sole

Mr. Plushenko will also be opening the

purpose of allowing visitors to take in the

Olympic Gold Medal museum which is

joys of skating while not being burdened

made in honor of him with his accolades

with heavy winter clothes.

Mr. Evgeni Plushenko, a four time Gold

in it. Along with him, there also will be

Medal winning Olympic figure skater and

a Saxophone & DJ performance by the

three time world champion, will be visiting

Melody Duo to celebrate the occassion.

Jumeirah Vittaveli to honor the one year

The opening of the museum will take place

anniversary of the ice rink in the resort. He

on 20th March 2019.

had also visited the resort on 20th March

The ice rink, named Ice Ice Maybe, has been

2018 to inaugurate this ice rink as well, as

dubbed as a groundbreaking innovation in

per Jumeirah Vittaveli.

the Maldives. It was opened with the sole

Mr. Plushenko will also be opening the

purpose of allowing visitors to take in the

Olympic Gold Medal museum which is

joys of skating while not being burdened

made in honor of him with his accolades

with heavy winter clothes.

MALAIKA ARORA SIZZLES IN A BIKINI ON HER MALDIVES GETAWAY Malaika Arora is having a whale of a time

party before walking down the aisle with

at Niyama Private Islands Maldives with

Arjun Kapoor. Arjun Kapoor is an Indian

her Best friends Vahbiz Mehta, Delnaz

actor who appears in Bollywood films. He

Daruwala, and Pressy Panda. Malaika and

is the son of film producers Boney Kapoor

her friends have flooded their Instagram

and Mona Shourie Kapoor.

with pictures at Niyama Maldives.

If reports turn out to be true then this will

Malaika Arora is an Indian actress, dancer,

be the first Bollywood celeb wedding of

model, VJ, and television presenter. She

2019. The year 2018 ended with some big

is most famous for her dancing in the

Bollywood wedding which included that of

songs Chaiyya Chaiyya, Gur Naalo Ishq

Priyanka Chopra-Nick Jonas and Deepika

Mitha, Maahi Ve, Kaal Dhamaal, and

Padukone-Ranveer Singh.

Munni Badnaam Hui. She turned into a

Niyama Maldives was rated #4 in the ‘Best

film producer in 2008, with her former

Resorts in the World’ category of the Condé

husband, Arbaaz Khan.

Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Awards,

Amidst rumors of an upcoming wedding on

and #2 ‘Top Resorts in the Indian Ocean’,

April 19, Malaika’s exotic getaway has many

Nature’s Playground beckons.

wondering if this is, in fact, her bachelorette

HANDE ERÇEL SEEN RELAXING AT AYADA MALDIVES World-renown Turkish actress and model

Instagram stories. It is yet unclear whether

Hande Erçel is now on vacation at Ayada

or not she arrived by herself or as part of

Maldives. The 25-year old actress gained

a group.

fame through the famous Turkish drama,

Ayada Maldives, located in Magudhuva

Aşk Laftan Anlamaz as the lead female.

Island, in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll is surrounded

Though she has Aşk Laftan Anlamaz to

by pristine beaches with the island dotted

thank the most for her fame, Hande has

with lush tropical greenery. They offer

appeared in various Turkish movies and

luxurious retreats with a genuine Maldivian

dramas such as Güneşin Kızları, Halka and

style.

more.

The wide range of restaurants, large villas

Hande is speculated to have arrived in

with private infinity pools and their multiple

Maldives on 18th March and shared the

award-winning AySpa make Ayada Maldives

beautiful sunsets of Maldives through her

an excellent choice.

FOOD 29

INDIAN CUISINE FOR EVERY MOOD AT PEAK TERRACE AND LOUNGE On the night of 7th March 2019, Maagiri

”After

considering

feedback

from

Hotel launched their Indian Menu with an

customers, we decided to specialize our

array of meals for every taste and mood.

largest restaurant into a place for Indian

The food will be available from Peak Terrace

Food,” as per a senior official from Maagiri

and Lounge located at the topmost 2 floors

Hotel. “No other restaurant in Male offers

of Maagiri Hotel near the Hulhumale Ferry

Indian food in such a great variety.” He

Terminal, Male.

added that in addition to Indian food, other

There are approximately 100 varieties of

international cuisine that matches local

Indian Food available at Peak, making it the

tastes will also be available in Peak.

only restaurant in Male where such a wide range of Indian Food available. With a total of 150 seats in the restaurant, they offer food from all parts of India.

A UNIQUE STREET FOOD JOINT IN MALE’ CITY – COMFOOD Comfood began as a coffee place for friends

food” which it is named after. The regulars

to hang out but has now evolved into a

are more than customers, they are friends

social hub which provides good food and

and even family now. It is even a common

great services. The small, streetfood-based

sight to see some of the patrons cleaning

takeaway outlet caught the eyes of many on

the dishes or handling the cash register

social media for their unique networking

behind the counter.

and interactions with customers.

“It’s a place for friends to hang out, and

Comfood’s marketing mainly depends on

they practically own it,” the owner, Ahmed

good word of mouth on social media through

Abdul Azeez – known to regulars as “Kevin”

stories shared by their happy customers.

– said. “Friends do all the work, selling the

The homely ambiance and the friendly vibe

products and even the marketing.”

has become a huge hit with regulars, which

Comfood is not only known for their

complements their signature “comfort

networking but also famous for the food.

CREATIVE INNOVATIONS AT ALP CAFÉ & BISTRO Alp Café and Bistro which first started out

with the thought “It’s time for a change”.

commercially, is not just focused on coffees

Hikimirus Rocket Science was inspired with

but rather focuses more on beverages

the Maldivian taste for spicy foods. Straight

by “Thinking creatively” according to the

from the mix of India- Maldives culture for

customers preference.

spicy food, Hikimirus Rocket Science was

Alp café’ drinks are inspired from all

created as a drink. “The flavors are more

around the world. The drinks were created

than what we have in Maldives. A vast

and customized by their Baristas. Doing

diverse!” said Maahil, creator of Hikimirus

research, exploring new varieties and

Rocket Science about the custom-made

creating new drinks together is part of what

beverages.

makes Alp different. Anyone who visits Alp

can see young Maldivian talents as Baristas,

just a coffee shop. The café prioritizes

experimenting with all sorts of beverages.

customer interactions, making them feel

Hikimirus Rocket Science

at home. Some of custom made beverages

Hikimirus Rocket Science is a

at Alp also include their Vanilla Latte which

mixture of Strawberry, Green apple &

has the perfect mix of cold brew and their

Hikimirus made with a lot of effort by

Nutella based “Mix It Up” which is neither

their Baristas.

too sweet nor smooth.

The innovation came up

Alp café and bistro is more than

30 TTM

TTM TO HOST THE THIRD EDITION OF THE TTM TRAVEL SUMMIT ON 11TH JUNE 2019 The theme of this year’s summit is ‘Travel

transactions, and revenue management.

Tech & Analytics” which will help the travel

Some highlighted speakers of the summit

industry to unleash analytics, dynamic

are from well-established organizations

pricing, digital and AI potential to deliver

such as TTG Asia, Make My Trip, Axis

unstoppable customer loyalty and profit.

Rooms, PADI, Red Dot, Booking.com,

This summit will help to discover how the

Phocuswright, Air Asia X and more.

latest innovations, products, and suppliers

Travel Trade Maldives (TTM) which is

can help you refresh your thinking and

the largest travel trade show held in the

generate new business & hear from a range

Maldives is scheduled to host its third

of industry experts from some leading

edition during 11-13th June. Over 100

travel businesses across the globe. Over

resorts and 200+ local and international

150 key travel professionals are expected

travel producers are expected to exhibit

to participate in this platform.

and participate in the event. TTM consists of four main components; TTM Travel

TTM Travel Summit will discuss topics such

Summit, TTM Pre-scheduled Meetings,

as marketing & travel insights, digital media

Maldives Supplier Expo and TTM Awards &

marketing, market movements, payment

Gala Night.

TTM 31

Hightlights TTM 2018 Pre-Sheduled meetings

Hightlights TTM 2018 Hotelier Summit

Hightlights TTM 2018 - Gala Night

32 ITB

SAFARI ISLAND, THULHAGIRI ISLAND AND DREAMLAND ACHIEVED TUI TOP QUALITY AWARD 2019 Safari Island achieved the TUI Top Quality

that achieved the award is considered

award for the past four consecutive years

‘First Class’, it contributes to the resort’s

from 2016 to 2019. This is a prestigious

credibility and proves its excellent services.

award presented to TUI’s best hotels

TUI Top Quality Award was launched

from the world. Along with Safari Island,

in 2015 and aims to highlight hotels’

Thulhagiri Island and Dreamland also

outstanding efforts to guests and providing

received the TUI Top Quality title in 2019.

the customers with objective orientation

The TUI Top Quality title marks the most

when choosing their next holiday hotel.

popular holiday destinations on their

Conditions of the award includes, at least

website. With this award, Safari Island,

30 assessments from the TUI guest surveys

Thulhagiri Island and Dreamland are a

in the span of the year, hotel’s performance

part of world’s 250 most popular hotels

and passing the TUI Safety Check, signing

rated by TUI’s guests now. All the hotels

TUI Deutschland’s Pool Safety Declaration.

INAUGURAL OF ITB INDIA 2020 TO BE ORGANIZED BY MESSE BERLIN Messe Berlin will be organizing the inaugural

dramatically expanding market opportunity.

ITB India in 2020.

“In recent years we have given the ITB brand

The three-day business-to-business travel

an increasingly international dimension,”

trade show and convention will take place at

said Christian Göke, chief executive of

the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai,

Messe Berlin.

India, from April 15th-17th next year. The

India’s

show will bring together key travel industry

increased seven percent on average year-

leaders and buyers from cities across India,

on-year between 2006 and 2016 and saw

and international exhibitors from the MICE,

an even higher growth rate of 8.5 percent

leisure and corporate sectors.

in travel expenditure from 2015 to 2016.

ITB India will also have a Hosted Buyers’

This rate was considerably higher than

Programme that will cater to buyers

growth rates seen by other major countries

from first, second, and third tier cities

including China, Indonesia, and Brazil for

in India. The Indian travel industry is

the same period.

expected to be valued at US$56 billion by

Almost a third of all buyers at ITB India is

2020 with UNTWO, the World Tourism

expected to have a purchasing power of

Organisation, predicting that there will 50

more than US$1 million. Of the buyers at

million outbound travelers by then. ITB

ITB India, half are expected to focus on

India represents a major opportunity for

leisure travel, with MICE and corporate

national tourism organizations, travel, and

travel buyers making up the remainder with

hospitality companies to be part of this

25 percent respectively.

outbound

travel

expenditure

FAIR 33

MALDIVES HONORED AS THE BEST BEACH DESTINATION IN ASIA AT MITT 2019 Maldives was honored as the Best Beach

companies and 239 destinations, it is the

Destination

Moscow

key meeting place for the industry and an

International Travel and Tourism Exhibition

opportunity to catch up with colleagues

(MITT) 2019 held from March 12-14, 2019.

and clients. It enables exhibitors to increase

Maldives was showcased at the Moscow

awareness of their destination, gain a real

International Travel & Tourism Exhibition

feel for the Russian travel market, and

(MITT) by Maldives Marketing and Public

gauge demand for their services.

Relations Corporation (MMPRC) together

MITT is organized by ITE Group, one of the

with 34 representatives from 19 companies

world’s leading organizers of international

from the tourism industry of Maldives.

trade exhibitions and conferences. ITE’s

MMPRC officials met with industry partners

portfolio of travel industry events take place

as well as travel trade media in order to

in five countries: Russia (Moscow), Ukraine

discuss the possibilities of joint promotions

(Kyiv), Kazakhstan (Almaty), Azerbaijan

to further strengthen the market throughout

(Baku), and Turkey (Istanbul).

the fair.

A trade-only event, MITT 2018 was

The Russian market has shown an increase

attended by 22,777 industry professionals

in the overall outbound travel and a steady

from 90 countries and 80 regions of Russia

growth in arrivals to the Maldives. By the

– tour operators, travel agents, and other

end of 2018, a total of 70,935 tourists

companies involved in the travel industry

arrived in the Maldives which is an increase

such as airlines, transport companies,

of 14.5 percent compared to 2017.

hotels, and IT companies. As Russia’s travel

MITT is Russia’s largest and longest running

industry evolves, MITT remains the key

travel exhibition. With over 1,799 exhibiting

industry forum for travel professionals.

in

Aisa

at

the

MALDIVES WINS MOST SERENE BEACH OF ASIA IN MITT Maldives beaches wins the title of the

meetings were held with the famous airlines

most serene beach of Asia in Moscow

of Russia, as per MMPRC. Over 22,000

International Travel and Tourism Exhibition

professionals from the hospitality industry

(MITT). The exhibition took place from

took part in MITT 2019. Around 18,000

12th to 14th March in Moscow, Russia.

participants from more than 200 countries take part in the exhibition every year.

34 members from 19 different companies of Maldivian hospitality industry took part

Russia is an important market to Maldivian

in the exhibition with Maldives Marketing

tourism industry. An increase of 14.5% has

and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC).

been noted in the tourist arrival count from

The stand of Maldives in the exhibition was

Russia to Maldives in 2018, compared to

designed in a way to showcase the natural

2017.

beauty of Maldives.

During this exhibition, fruitful events were held with the higher-ups of the Russian market and famous medias of Russia. Also, HRS_19-707_TTM_AD_02_PATHED.pdf

1

15/4/19

14:58

34 FAIR

MALDIVES WON ‘DREAM DESTINATION’ AWARD FOR THE 11TH CONSERVATIVE YEAR BY THE MARINE DIVE CENTER AT TOKYO Maldives won the prestigious ‘Dream

in strengthening the market presence of

Destination’ award for the 11th conservative

Maldives in Japan and South East Asia

year by the Marine Dive Center, Tokyo,

region.

Japan. The award was received by the

The Japanese market is the 9th source

Ambassador of Maldives to Japan H.E.

market to Maldives according to the most

Ibrahim Uvais.

recent arrival figures by the Ministry if

Maldives took part in the 27th annual

Tourism. By the end of February 2019,

Marine Diving Fair in Tokyo, Japan from

3,987 Japanese arrivals were recorded,

5th to 7th April 2019. Maldives was

which is a growth of 6.5 percent compared

represented by Maldives Marketing & Public

to the previous year. In 2018 a total of

Relations Corporation (MMPRC) together

42,304 arrivals were recorded, which is a

with the Maldives Embassy in Japan along

growth of 2.8 percent. It’s been noted that

with the industry participants.

the dive segment of Maldives attracts the

Marine Diving Fair 2019 is a platform to

most visitors from Japan. Thereby, Marine

reach a large number of scuba divers and

Diving fair opens a great platform to reach

marine enthusiasts. Furthermore, it is

the travelers focusing in the dive segment.

expected, that participation will benefit

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CRUISE 35

THE WORLD MAKES ITS WAY TO MALDIVES The World, which has been dubbed as the

It was built to cater every need, for those

largest residential ship in the world has

with the means to afford life in this luxury

arrived in Maldives. It is 644 feet long with

yacht. There are some who live full time on

12 decks containing high-end apartments,

the ship by purchasing an apartment from

restaurants, shops and boutiques, a spa

the condominium and some who rent out an

and so many more. The World is unusual

apartment for a couple days while enjoying

in comparison with other cruise ships as it

the relaxing atmosphere of the yacht. Even

spends most of its time in ports rather than

though this yacht currently boasts the fact

out at sea.

that it is the largest residential ship in the

The World was launched in 2002 and has

world, there is a ship under construction in

currently visited around 900 ports in 140

South Korea by the name of Utopia, which

countries. It was built with careful detail

is even more grand than The World. Once it

and has exquisite features wherever you

officially opens, the title will then be passed

look at. Lalique Chandeliers, a wine cellar

along to Utopia.

filled with well-aged delicious wine and etc.

MSC MAGNIFICA SET TO ARRIVE AT MALDIVES One of the worlds largest cruise liners, MSC

the cruise liner. This cruise ship is brought

Magnifica is set to arrive at Maldives in the

to Maldives through Travel Connections

near future. MSC Magnifica is scheduled

Maldives.

to arrive on 10th April 2019 and would

MSC is one of the largest companies

depart on the 11th of April 2019. This is

worldwide to operate cruise liners. One of

the first time for a cruise liner of MSC to

their cruise liners, MSC Meraviglia is one of

visit Maldives.

the largest cruise liners in the world and is

MSC Magnifica has a length of 964 feet and

1000 feet long and has 19 floors.

a width of 106 feet. The crew includes more

As per the Maldives Association of Travel

than 1200 employees and more than 2500

Agents (MAYA) 50 cruise liners are set to

people would be arriving to Maldives from

visit Maldives in 2019.

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