Bi-Monthly Edition May - June 2019
www.traveltrademaldives.com ttm@traveltrademaldives.com / traveltrademaldives
ISSUE 003
International Travel Trade Periodical Published by Leading Travel Trade Show of Maldives - TTM
MOHAMED NIHAJ
GENERAL MANAGER AT RAHAA RESORT
MOHAMED MIRSAAD
MANAGING DIRECTOR AT TRAVEL CONNECTION
RASHEED ABDULLAH
DIRECTOR SALES & MARKETING AT SUN OCEAN PVT.LTD
IN THIS ISSUE : Statistics | Government | Market Overview | Aviation | Transport / Cruise | Travel tech | TTM | Travel Agents Accommodations | People | Interviews | Celebrity | Wellness | Food | ITB | Fair & Awards
02 FOREWARD & TEAM
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
OUR TEAM MANAGING DIRECTOR
Akhmeem Abdul Razzaq
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Dr. Hussain Sunny Umar
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Nashaath
DIRECTOR
Ibrahim Areef
Welcome to the third issue of “TTM
connects the travel trade community of the
Periodical”. TTM Periodical is a bi-monthly
Maldives to the global network of travel
magazine
Trade
professionals. This year, the multi-event
Maldives (TTM) - the leading and largest
travel trade show will include the TTM Travel
travel trade fair in the Maldives - which aims
Summit, TTM prescheduled meetings, TTM
to fill a gap that currently exists in marketing
Awards & Gala and Maldives Supplier Expo.
Maldives to the international audience.
As successful as TTM 2017 and TTM 2018
Estimated figures for 2023 indicate that
were, we at Orca Media Group have done
Maldives will achieve well over 50,000 in
everything to ensure TTM 2019 will be better
beds in operation and government target
and more rewarding for the participants in
of 2.5 million tourist arrivals annually. The
every aspect. All this would not have been
ongoing airport development projects at
possible without the incredible support of
Velana International Airport will ensure
our partners and industry stakeholders.
that the airport will be ready to cater to
Here’s wishing all the best and a successful
over 7 million passengers annually by 2023.
event for all participants of TTM 2020.
published
by
Travel
Since being launched in 2017, TTM 2019 is the 3rd edition of the show that effectively
DIRECTOR
Mohamed Khoorsheed
MANAGER
Ahmed Nasir
ASSISTANT MANAGER Fathmath Maisaan
PHOTOGRAPHY DYNAMYST
FOREWORD BY MINISTER OF TOURISM MR. ALI WAHEED
Haisham Ali
DESIGN DIRECTION CREATIVE TUNA Zaya Ahmed Moothi Zeina Shareef Hamdhoon W.
MARKETING
Ali Sageef Ibrahim Hawwa Sana Rashad Nadwa Mohamed Mufeed Mohamed Raaidh Saeedh
Copyright c 2019 Orca Media Group.All rights reserved throughout the world. Reproduction in any manner is prohibited. Opinions expressed in the articles are of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the editor or publishers. While the editors do their utmost to verify information published they do not accept responsibility for its absolute accuracy. Materials in this publication may not be reproduced, whether in part or in whole, without the consent of Orca Media Group.
Tourism in the Maldives since its inception had banked on the assets sun, sand and sea. No doubt these core marketable features
emphasized
and
promoted
Maldives as a tourist destination for over WEBSITE orcamedia.group
four decades. Today, in line with the vision of the new administration of His Excellency President Ibrahim Mohamed
PUBLISHED BY
Solih to spread the benefits of the industry evenly across the country, the Ministry of Tourism aims to diversify the current concept by focusing on the development of 5 major zones within the country as regional destinations and individual tourism products. This approach intends to explore the traits and attractions that are unique to each zone and foster a varied tourism product for the country. I believe that we have endless opportunities to diversify our tourism product. Most importantly, it is essential that we incorporate aspects such
as culture, sports and business with tourism
internal influences. Hence it is crucial that
to efficiently utilize the vast potential these
we remain proactive and prepared. We have
areas have to offer for the development
already officially launched the Water Safety
and diversification of our tourism industry.
Program this month. We also have more
This diversification will not only enhance
measures underway to make the Maldives
the impression of Destination Maldives, but
not only the most beautiful but also the
brings in added value to our vibrant sector.
safest tourist destination.
Further, this effort to promote and develop
This far in to the second quarter of 2019, we
our tourism product, also adheres to the
have a highly positive outlook towards the
principle of “leave no one behind” ushered
tourism industry in terms of tourist arrivals.
in by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable
The records to date have shown noteworthy
Development Goals.
progress every month. The month of April
The Ministry targets to strengthen the
this year is the highlight with an incredible
regulatory
coming
36.3% growth rate compared to the same
years, as this will be the backbone that
period last year. This is the highest increase
will shape the industry resourcefully and
on this basis recorded within the past 13
guide it towards greater achievements in
years.
a steady progression. In this regard, I find
With
it imperative to note that we are working
aforementioned new policies and programs
towards ensuring the welfare of both the
that will diversify as well as secure the
human capital and environmental resources
industry, our earnest hope is to see the
employed in the industry, bearing in mind
number of tourists visiting our beautiful
the interest of the workforce and by
country continue to increase in the months
adopting an environmentally sustainable
ahead. We have the blessings of nature for
approach for development.
a robust tourism industry. Let us make our
Further to this, I strongly believe that the
world of tourism more inclusive, attractive
safety and security within the industry
and more unique! The stronger the vision,
must not be compromised or undermined.
the more success we achieve.
framework
in
the
In turn, this will be a prime focus of the Ministry for this year. The tourism industry of our country is highly vulnerable to the changes in perception that comes with increased risks for travel from external and
the
implementation
of
the
ROADSHOWS & FAIRS 03
MMPRC ROADSHOW & FAIR LIST 2019 JAN 19 JAN 27JAN
BOOT
AUG
WTM AFRICA 10 APR 12 APR
Dusseldorf, Germany
Cape Town, South Africa Capetown International Convention Centre, Convention Square, Cape town, South Africa
08 AUG 09 AUG
23 JAN 25 JAN
OTM, ONE WORLD MARKET
15 APR 17 APR
28 APR 01 MAY
EMITT, EAST MEDITERRANEAN INTERNATIONAL TOURISM & TRAVEL EXHIBITION
MAY
East Mediterranean International Travel & Tourism Exhibition, TUYAP International Exhibition Centre, Istanbul, Turkey
Riyadh, Jeddah, Abu Dhabi, Dubai Coinciding with ATM
Milan, Italy
Berlin, Germany Messe Berlin GmbH, Messedamm 22, D-14055 Berlin, Germany
MITT, Moscow International Travel & Tourism Exhbiton Moscow, Russia Krasnaya Presnya Exhibition Complex, ZAO Expocentre, Moscow, Russia
05 APR 07 APR
JUNE 11 JUNE 13 JUNE
2, 4, 6 & 9 SEP
ITALY, ROADSHOW Rome & Milan
JAPAN, ROADSHOW Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya,
CHINA ROADSHOW
Fukuoka October ( should coincide with JATA 24- 27 oct)
Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou & Chengdu
06 SEP 08 SEP
24 JUN 28 JUN
INDIAN, ROADSHOW
MATTA
24 OCT 27 OCT
16 SEP 19 SEP
Tokyo Big Sight
NOV
GERMANY, ROADSHOW Dusseldorf,Frankfurt, Munich & Vienna
JATA, TOURISM EXPO JAPAN Osaka, Japan
Kuala Lampur, Malaysia
04 NOV 06 NOV
WTM, WORLD TRAVEL MARKET London, United Kingdom
21 SEP 24 SEP
Excel London, 1 Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London Docklands, E16 1XL, United Kingdom
WORLD ROUTES Adelaide, Australia
25 SEP 27 SEP
ABAV
7, 8 & 11 NOV
Sao Paulo, Brazil
TTM
01 SEP 04 SEP
Paris Porte de Versailles Exhibition Centre, 75015 Paris, France
Manchester, Glasgow, Scotland, Coinciding with WTM
DEC
IFTM TOP RESA Paris, France
UK, ROADSHOW Dublin
Av. Olavo Fontoura, 1.209, Anhembi Parque, SP
Mumbai, Delhi, Calcutta, Banglore, CHandigarh
03 DEC 06 DEC
INTERNATIONAL LUXURY TRAVEL MARKET (ILTM) Cannes, France
OCT
JULY NORDIC, ROADSHOW
09 OCT 11 OCT
Rimini, Italy
Stockholm
TTG Italia S.p.A - RIMINI FIERA -Via Emilia, 155 - 47900 Rimini, Italy
CHINA, ROADSHOW
MARINE DIVING FAIR
Guangzhou, Chendgdu, Beijing
16 OCT 18 OCT
ITB ASIA Singapore Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore
Tokoyo, Japan
USA, ROADSHOW Miami, New York, Chicago, Toronto
Palais des Festivals et des Congres, Boulevard de la Croisette, 06403 Cannes, Cedex, France
TTG TRAVEL EXPERIENCE
Helsinki, Copenhagen, Oslo,
APR Sunshine City Convention Center Hall, Ikebukuro, Tokyo, Japan
14 OCT 15 OCT
SEP
Male’ , Maldives
MAR ITB
& Kiev
Coinciding with Germany RS
BIT Fiera Milano SpA, P.Iva C.F. 13194800150, S.S. Sempione 28 – 20017 RHO (MI), Milan, Italy
Saint-Petersburg, Moscow,Minsk
Warsaw, Prague, Budapest
MIDDLE EAST & GCC, ROADSHOW
FEB
12 MAR 14 MAR
ATM, ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Istanbul, Turkey
06 MAR 10 MAR
COTTM, CHINA OUTBOUND TRAVEL & TOURISM MARKET
RUSSIA ROADSHOW
Dubai, UAE
Messe Zürich, Switzerland
10 FEB 12 FEB
EASTERN EUROPE, ROADSHOW
(New Hall) National Agricultural Exhibition Center, Beijing, China
Zurich, Switzerland
31 JAN 03 FEB
10 OCT 14 OCT
Beijing, China
Parque Ferial Juan Carlos 1, 28042 Madrid, Apdo. De Correos 67.067, Spain
FESPO
SWISS, ROADSHOW
Coinciding with IFTM Top Resa
Basel Zurich & Geneva
Coinciding with WTM Africa
Madrid, Spain
31 JAN 03 FEB
Chengdu
Durban
Bombay Convention and Exhibition Centre, Mumbai, India
FITUR INTERNATIONAL TOURISM TRADE FAIR
19 AUG 21 AUG
FRANCE, ROADSHOW Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou &
Seoul, Busan
Cape Town, Johannesburg,
Mumbai, India
23 JAN 27 JAN
7, 8 & 10 OCT
SOUTH KOREA, ROADSHOW
Düsseldorf Exhibition Centre, Düsseldorf, Germany
SOUTH AFRICA, ROADSHOW
B2B B2C Dive Trade
ASEAN, ROADSHOW Singapore, Bangkok, KL, Taipei Coinciding with ITB Asia
TBC AUSTRALIA, ROADSHOW Sydney,Melbourne, Brisbane
04 STATISTICS
MALDIVES CHOSEN AS SECOND MOST POPULAR TOURIST DESTINATION AMONG UK TOURISTS
Maldives has been listed as the second most popular
perfect for a budget vacation. Due to this the number
tourist destination among the tourists of United
of tourists who choose Maldives as their destination
Kingdom (UK) as per statistics shown by HomeToGo,
increasing according to the website. The vibrant coral
an online website to discover potential destinations to
reefs and aquatic life and the beaches of the Madives
make travels to.
are the reasons why tourists wants to visit Maldives as
Bora Bora, the small island archipelagos south to
per HomeToGo.
Pacific Ocean, was listed as the number one destination
Some of the popular destinations apart from Maldives
among the tourists of UK. Although Maldives is known
among the tourists of England include Madagascar
to be an expensive, luxury tourist destination, the
and Zimbabwe, . England is one of the countries from
site also promoted Maldives as a destination which
where the most number of tourists visit Maldives.
11 - 13 JUNE 2019 T H I R D
T I T L E P A RT N E R
AIRLINE PARTNERS
Y E A R
GOLD PAR TNE R S
PREMIUM EXHIBITORS
ORGANI SER
E N D O RS IN G P A RT N E RS
ATP
M ald ives Assoc iation of Tourism Professionals
GOVERMENT 05
30-DAY VISA EXEMPTION FOR MALDIVIAN TOURISTS IN THAILAND
Maldives is eligible for a 30-day visa
Thailand and Foreign Minister of Maldives,
exemption at Thailand. The validation
Mr. Abdulla Shahid
began from 14th April 2019, announced
Thailand is not the only country Maldivians
The Royal Thai Embassy to the Ministry of
received visa exemption from. Maldivians
Foreign Affairs.
can also visit United Arab Emirates (UAE)
All holders of valid passports or travel
for 30 days without a visa. In addition, they
documents issued by Maldives are eligible
can also stay at India for 90 days visa-free
for visa exemption when entering Thailand
if their visiting purposes were either for
for tourism purposes. The decision was
business or for touristic purposes.
made in a meeting with a delegation of
MALDIVES NOMINATED FOR 7 PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS AT THE WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS 2019 Maldives has been nominated for 7
in the Travel and Tourism Industry. It is
prestigious awards at the World Travel
also renowned as the “Oscars of the Travel
Awards 2019. Maldives is nominated for,
Industry.” Today, the World Travel Awards™
Indian Ocean’s Leading Beach Destination
brand is recognized globally as the ultimate
2019, Indian Ocean’s Leading Cruise
hallmark of quality, with winners setting the
Destination 2019, Indian Ocean’s Leading
benchmark to which all others aspire.
Destination 2019, Indian Ocean’s Leading
Maldives had won prestigious positions
Dive Destination 2019, Indian Ocean’s
in various categories over the years. This
Leading Green Destination 2019, Indian
year’s nominations are yet again another
Ocean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination
positivity for the Maldives as a tourist
2019 and Indian Ocean’s Leading Tourist
destination. Being a winner of most awards
Board 2019.
in the most prestigious categories in the
World travel awards are well-known as the
past has truly bench marked the destination
highest and most exclusive award ceremony
profiling at the highest level.
06 GOVERNMENT
MMPRC INVITES INDIAN JOURNALISTS AND BLOGGERS TO PROMOTE MALDIVES A team of Indian journalists and bloggers
trip will start at Guraidhoo Palm Inn, where
Pioneer Group, an English language daily
experience in Maldives.
arrived in Maldives on a familiarization
they will experience the local way of life
newspaper and Outlook Traveller, India’s
This is the first of a series of FAM trips that
trip organized by Maldives Marketing and
by sightseeing the island and experiencing
First and largest circulated monthly travel
are being planned by MMPRC for this year
Public Relations Corporation. They are
the local cusines of Maldives. MMPRC
magazine. Bloggers in the team include
in order to promote Maldives. These trips
expected to visit local islands and resorts
will also give a destination presentation to
Snigdha Bhowmick from “Salt and Sandals”
are an integral part of MMPRC’s marketing
from 15th April 2019 till 20th April 2019
the group to share information regarding
which is a luxury travel, food & beverage
strategy to relate the stories of Maldives to
to experience off the beaten track activities
the Maldivian tourism industry to further
blog, Archana Singh from “Travel See
the world by inviting various media from
available in Maldives.
promote Maldives. The team will then travel
Write” travel blog, Pallavi Chaturvedi
across the globe to experience Maldives first
The main purpose of this trip is to promote
to Adaaran Rannalhi and Adaaran Select
from “That Desi Girl” Blog, and Nivi
hand.
Maldives as a tourist destination via blog
Hudhuranfushi where they will experience
Shrivastava, a freelance journalist with
posts and articles. The team will explore the
life at a resort and sunset excursion on a
Deccan Chronical and Asian age. They will
undiscovered side of Maldives, which is the
cruise.
be posting dedicated social media posts
local island life and Maldivian culture. Their
The team comprise of writers from
with destination articles that feature their
MMPRC REQUESTS FOR COMPANY NAME CHANGE Maldives Marketing and Public Relations
the company has been spoiled due to the
Corporation (MMPRC) has requested for
corruption issues which is disadvantageous
a change in their name to the President’s
in their line of work.
Office as per the Managing Director of
Due to the aforementioned reason, MMPRC
MMPRC, Mr. Thoyyib Mohamed.
is requesting for a change in their name.
In a press conference held by MMPRC,
Multiple names have been sent in to the
they explained the reason that they are
President’s office for approval as per Mr.
requesting for a change in the name of the
Thoyyib.
company. They clarified that the name of
GOVERMENT 07
MATI HOSTS SESSION FOR STUDENTS INTERESTED IN HOSPITALITY
The Maldives Association of Tourism
The panel included:
Industry (MATI), in collaboration with the
1.Mr. Hussain Afeef (Vice-President, MATI)
Maldives National University (MNU) held
2.Mr. Salah Shihab (Vice-President, MATI)
a discussion session targeted at collegiate
3.Mr. Ahmed Nazeer (Secretary General,
level students from all disciplines, with the
MATI)
aim of inspiring them to use the Tourism /
4.Mr.
Hospitality industry as a stepping stone to
Member, MATI)
achieving their dreams and aspirations.
5.Ms. Zulaikha Manik (Executive Board
The session included a keynote address
Member, MATI)
by
(President,
The session was held on the 20th of April
Maldives Association of Human Resource
2019, at the CA Auditorium, MNU from
Professionals) as well as a panel discussion
1600 hours – 1730 hours.
Mr.
Afeef
Hussain
Iyaz
Waheed
(Executive
Board
and Q&A session including senior Executive Board Members of MATI.
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08 GOVERNMENT
OPERATIONAL PERMITS ISSUED TO 10 RESORTS AND 40 GUESTHOUSES Within the span of three month reign of
resort segment with the addition of 640
the current government, the Ministry of
beds into the guesthouse sector as per
Tourism has issued operational permits
Mr. Ali Waheed. 11 dive centers and 22
to 10 resorts and 40 guesthouses as per
travel agencies were also given operational
Minister of Tourism, Honorable Ali Waheed.
permits within this duration, he further
In a press conference held at the Ministry
added.
on 9th April, the Minister explained that
The current government has stated that
with the additional 10 resorts given the
they will be opening 30 resorts in the year
operational permits, the total number of
2019, therefore changing the total bed
resorts now equal to 141.
count in Maldives to 50,000.
With only three months into the reign, 1410 beds have been added into the
MARKET OVERVIEW 09
MARKET OVERVIEW - EUROPE
Europe has been one of the top tourist
Europe plays a vital role in the economic
year 2016. The UK, Germany, France and
rise, according to Statista, only 26% of the
arrival regions to Maldives for decades.
impact of the global travel industry.
Italy, which are well known as among the
population indulges in outbound tourism
More than 726,420 tourists arrived from
The European Union is among the most
world’s top 10 largest outbound tourism
as of 2017, however spending a staggering
Europe to Maldives in 2018 which was a
developed areas in the world with the
markets, are all located in the European
450 billion Euros (504 billion Dollars)
12.4% increase compared to 2017. Europe
world’s strongest economy. With well over
Union, making it one of the most important
on outbound tourism and is predicted to
contributes to 48.9% of the tourists who
740 million people from more than 50
consumers for many international hotelier
increase in value over the next 10 years, as
arrived to Maldives in 2018. Tourists from
different country unified under the same
brands and travel agencies.
in 2018, the outbound travel expenditure
Western European countries took up the
currency, it has about $20 trillion in GDP
Out of the total 1.2 billion trips made by
was approximated at 507 billion Euros (568
list of the most visited to Maldives. Over
with an average of $27,730 as GDP per
European travelers, approximately 42% of
billion Dollars) and is projected to rise to
242,720 tourists from Western European
capita. Currently ranking 3rd in GDP per
all trips spend 25% of their 6 billion nights
615 billion Euros (689 billion Dollars) in
countries visited in 2018, following
capita globally compared, it has seen an
out of their country. While this figure is
2028.
southern Europe with over 157,980
GDP rise by 2.5% per annum since 2017.
still low, it is highly possible that with the
While looking at individual tourist markets
tourist arrivals to Maldives. Germany,
Europe is currently the world’s largest
growth of overall income to the area, the
of Europe, Germany, France, UK, Italy
France, UK, Italy and Russia are the most
source of outbound tourism, with well over
number of nights and trips outside of the
and Russia are the most dominant tourist
dominant individual tourist markets to
618 million tourists arriving at destinations
European Union will drastically increase
markets to the Maldives in the recent years.
the Maldives in the recent years.
globally from Europe. This figure accounts
from the projection of the next 4 years.
for almost 50% of the world’s tourists in the
Even though the overall market is on the
CORPORATE MALDIVES ACADEMY PRESENTS
WORLD’S LEADING QUALIFICATIONS IN MARKETING
10 MARKET OVERVIEW GERMANY
Within the span of three month reign of
resort segment with the addition of 640
the current government, the Ministry of
beds into the guesthouse sector as per
Tourism has issued operational permits
Mr. Ali Waheed. 11 dive centers and 22
to 10 resorts and 40 guesthouses as per
travel agencies were also given operational
Minister of Tourism, Honorable Ali Waheed.
permits within this duration, he further
In a press conference held at the Ministry
added.
on 9th April, the Minister explained that
The current government has stated that
with the additional 10 resorts given the
they will be opening 30 resorts in the year
operational permits, the total number of
2019, therefore changing the total bed
resorts now equal to 141.
count in Maldives to 50,000.
With only three months into the reign, 1410 beds have been added into the
UNITED KINGDOM
FRANCE
France occupies 8% of all outbound nights
tourism is more expensive compared to
spent by visitors in European region and
2016.
they spend 200 million nights with an
Looking at French visitors to Maldives, in
average 4 night per person in 2018. With
2018, more than 50,476 tourists arrived
a rise of spending of travel by 11% in 2018
from France to Maldives and which was
compared to 2017, they currently spend
19.1% increase compare to the previous
34.6 billion Euros. While 31 million people,
year. France contributes 3.4 % of the
59% of the population are involved in
tourists arrived to the Maldives in 2018.
tourism form the country, they cover 8% of
According to the ministry of tourism, in
the whole European market. While tourism
the first quarter of 2019 French market is
is their second most important spending
ranked as the 6th highest visitor arriving
priority with 45% of the voter voting for
market as it covers 5.5% of the total arrivals
it. While average spending per person has
in Maldives. With 26,692 visitors arriving
increased by 1%, trip frequency of French
in the first quarter of 2019, this is a rise in
travellers has increased by 4.3%. However,
28% of arrivals compared to the first three
more French non-travellers believe that
months of 2018.
UK along with Germany accounted for
by 3.7% compared to 2018.
50.7% of the nights spend by visitors of EU,
In 2018, More than 114,600 British tourists
as UK alone contributed 564 million nights
visited Maldives, compared to almost
to the world tourism. With their expenses
104,000 in 2017. In December 2018 alone
on travel and tourism increased by 8%
10,800 tourists arrived from UK. This is
compared to 2017, it is now at 57.2 billion
an 11% increase, compared to the same
Euros. As UK tourists account for 23% of
period in 2017. The UK is the second
the whole European market and with 33
largest European inbound market with the
million people, 60% of their population
7.7% of total arrivals to the Maldives in
involved in outbound tourism, they are in
2018. It was the third largest global market
fact one of the largest markets in the world.
to the Maldives in 2018. While UK visitors
In the Phocus Wright discretion spending
accounted for 7.5% of all the visitors to
priority survey, travel was voted as the most
arrive to Maldives in the first quarter of
important spending priority with 50% of
2019, this is 36,116 of visitors within the
voters voting for tourism. However, while
first three months. Moreover, this is a 10.7%
the spending per person has gone down
rise of arrivals from the UK compared to
1.3% in 2018 compared to 2017, the trip
the first quarter of 2018. UK is ranked 4th
frequency in tourists from UK has gone up
on the arrival list as of March 2019.
MARKET OVERVIEW 11 ITALY
The Italian market is one of the world’s
to the ministry of tourism – tourism
major tourism markets, however, with 75
monthly statistical report, Italy currently
million nights spent, this accounts for 3% of
ranks number 2 in the arrivals list to the
the total nights spent by EU tourists. With
Maldives covering 10.9% of the Maldivian
28 million people, which is the country’s
arrivals. With 52,484 visitors, Italy showed
46% of population, this accounts for 4% of
an increase by 27.4% in arrivals to the
all the tourism from the European Union.
Maldives in the first quarter of 2019.
In 2018, more than 105,297 tourists arrived from Italy to Maldives and which was 18.5 % increase compare to the previous year. Italy contributes 7.1 % of the tourists arrived to the Maldives in 2018. According
RUSSIAN FEDERATION Russia spent 275 million nights making it
March 2018 as 269,619 visitors arrived in
one of the largest markets in the world in
Maldives from this region. In the month of
terms of tourism. With 27.8 million Euros
March alone, there were more than 90,000
spent in 2017, there was a rise in spending
visitors from the European region. For
drastically by 26% in 2018. While 44
European visitors, peak booking demand
million visitors are involved in travel and
is usually from June till December with the
tourism, this accounts for 30% of Russia’s
peak period in December to January and
population and 4% of the whole European
average duration of stay was 7-10 nights.
market.
Among visitors who stayed in resorts,
In 2018, more than 70,935 tourists arrived
German visitors sated the longest with an
from Russia to Maldives and which was
average duration of stay of nine nights
14.5 % increase compare to the previous
Maldives is a popular tourist destination
year. Russian market contributes 4.8 %
among European tourists. Maldives Visitor
of the tourists arrived to the Maldives in
Survey (MVS) indicated that rest and
2018.According to the ministry of tourism,
relaxation is the main reason why European
in the first quarter of 2019, Russia covered
tourists visit Maldives. Among the European
5.4% of all arrivals in the Maldives with a
tourists rest and relaxation is main purpose
rise in 7.7% of visitors compared to the first
of visit to the Maldives for Italian (60%),
quarter of 2018 as 26,284 visitors arrived
Swiss (59%), British (59%), German (58%),
in Maldives from Russia within the first
and French (55%) visitors in 2017.Apart
three months of 2019. Russia is currently
from rest and relaxation, honeymoon is
the 7th biggest market for the Maldives as
also a significant reason for Europeans to
per March 2019.
visit Maldives. Besides, the quality of the beaches and privacy are also significant
The first quarter of 2019 showed an
factors that motivate European tourists to
occupancy rate of average 75.2% which
visit Maldives. Moreover, 87% of the tourist
is a 0.6% rise compared to last year with
from Europe stayed in resorts in 2017.
visitors spending an average 6.2 night per
Within the European tourists, guesthouses
visitor which is a 0.3% decrease compared
appear to be particularly popular among
to 2018. Looking at the arrivals in Maldives
Russian (30%) and Italian (28%) visitors.
for the first 3 months of 2019, the greatest
About 14% of the Italian tourists who
number of visitors arrived from European
visited to Maldives stayed in a boat or safari
Union countries with a 55.8% of visitors.
in 2017.
This is a 13% increase comparative to
12 PEOPLE out and ended up staying there. However,
logistics of passengers and cargo being on
I didn’t stay too long at Angaga as I shifted
a remote island specially on wet weather
to F&B of Huvafenfushi. I started from the
conditions. Sea planes would be delayed
very bottom as a Waiter, moving on to F&B
or were not able to fly during bad weather
Captain and to a Restaurant in Charge.
and in some instances they would land to a nearby resort where the sea conditions
Then, I decided to shift my area and applied
are favorable for them to land. It could
for the position of a butler who would be
be stressful to handle the guests in these
designated for the special pavilions in the
circumstances.
resort. And so, I changed to a butler and
What was the biggest success that celebrities who visited Maldives then. I you achieved? got the chance to interact with the top
got promoted from Head Butler to Guest Relations
Manager
and
Front
Office
I have achieved a lot of successful feats in my life. However, the biggest one I
Manager.
always am proud of is the opening of Velaa After Huvafenfushi, I then moved to Velaa
as I worked on it both personally and
Private Island as the Resident Manager
professionally. I approached many wealthy
and filled in the position of General
businessmen trying to purchase an island
Manager upon the absence of the then
for the resort and finally settled on one
General Manager. After that, I went to
after receiving many proposals. I was also
Switzerland to study at BHMS and finished
there during the construction of the resort
my Postgraduate Diploma and Masters
and the pre-opening. Velaa opened after so
there. When University ended, I decided to
much of my hard work and dedication and
gain some overseas experience and hence,
I am always proud of the fact that I worked
worked at Baltschug Kempinski in Russia.
so hard on it.
I worked for three months there before coming back to Velaa as the Resident
MOHAMED NIHAJ
Manager once more and then being
What would you like to say to aspiring young hoteliers?
promoted to the owner’s representative.
GENERAL MANAGER AT RAHAA RESORT
One of the most important messages I
What made you move to Rahaa have learnt is working hard. Do not take from Velaa? working hard in just a physical manner. Could you please give us an introduction on how your professional life began?
on the industry and did stewarding and F&B trainings along with it.
You also need to work smart. Have interest After having worked in Velaa as an RM, I
and passion in what you do so that you are
had gained so much experiences due to
able to do what you do with love. If you do
apprenticeship
working on so many projects. I finally felt
not love what you do, you are not going to
My professional life began while I was
program within one year I joined Bandos as
like I was ready to take on the position of
be able to do it well. I have always applied
studying A’level in CHSE. While studying,
a F&B attendant but didn’t work very long
General Manager of a resort. Along with
these virtues in my work and I believe that
I was also simultaneously working as a
there. As I was facing difficulties in adjusting
the fact that I felt ready, I also wanted to
today, they are what makes me what I am.
laboratory
finishing
to the work style in Bandos after working
challenge myself as Rahaa is a stand-
CHSE, I decided to join the Four Seasons
in Four Seasons, I decided it was time to
alone property and it proved to be a very
Apprenticeship program which became
move on.
challenging opening. As the resort was
After
technician.
Upon
completing
the
in a secluded location, I willed to make it
the gateway for me to enter the tourism industry.
After I resigned from Bandos I went back
successful.
to my island. Not too long after, a friend of At Four Seasons, I had to begin working from
mine from Angaga Resorts called me asking
scratch as someone who was absolutely
for my help. He explained that it was the
new to the industry. I attended theory
festive season and that he needed my help.
classes in order to gain more understanding
Having agreed, I went there to help him
What was the biggest challenge that you faced? The hardest challenge I faced was the
RAS ERP PRODUCTS
RAS HRMS
RAS POS
RAS BUTLER
RAS ECOMMERCE
RAS TRANSPORT
RAS LO G IS TI CS
PEOPLE 13 back in the days as foreign agents were
to their nature, it sometimes become an
more preferable to resorts and other
issue when dealing with tourists from the
tourism facilities. Due to this, we had a lot
Middle Eastern market.
of difficulty in obtaining suitable rates. They would tell us to get them 150-500 room nights. It might be easy to say this but it is definitely not easy getting that much room
What do Middle Eastern tourists look for when visiting Maldives?
nights. However, due to them not taking our investments and time seriously enough,
One of the most important aspects to Middle
we attended multiple roadshows and fairs
Eastern tourists is privacy. Whichever
abroad, scoring foreign agents and more,
reason that they visit for, they would want
until such time that the resorts were forced
to stay at a secluded and private resort to
to come to terms with the fact that we are
fully enjoy their holiday. They also have a
seriously investing in the industry to get
tendency to go for places with pools. So, it
markets.
is safe to say that a Middle Eastern tourist would lean towards a private overwater/
While speaking of challenges we should also talk about your successes. Which are your most notable ones?
beach villa which has its own pool and is secluded from the rest of the island. They also have a tendency to go for trustworthy and well-known brands such as Four Seasons, One & Only, Jumeirah and other
One of the most notable success we as
renowned brands.
a company have achieved is going from a meager count of 2 staff to employing 20+ staff in the agency. This is a great improvement when compared to the time
What are the most common types of tourists who arrive in Maldives from the Middle East?
we began the work of our company. Another
MOHAMED MIRSAAD
MANAGING DIRECTOR AT TRAVEL CONNECTION Could you begin with a brief introduction about yourself?
One & Only Reethi Rah. After that, in 2013, I finally decided that I had gained enough experience to run my own agency and
I have always been working in the hospitality industry even before the idea to create a travel agency came to me. I worked in various posts in resorts and I even worked in the airport, which if not directly is also related to tourism industry. The resorts I worked in are Kanuhuraa and
created Travel Connections Maldives.
notable challenge is us having widened our
There are several types of tourists who come
reach. We now have three offices. One is
to Maldives from the Middle East. The most
the local office in Maldives with the other
common type would be honeymooners,
two in Sri Lanka and our newest one, in
as is the case of many other markets, as
China. I believe that within 6 years, this can
Maldives is now a premium honeymoon
be considered a great feat and I’m utterly
destination. Maldives is a dream to many
proud of that.
couples and this is no different to Middle
Your main market is the Middle East. What issues do you face when dealing with this market?
Easterners who tend to lean towards more mainstream brands. Others are the travelers who come to relax and spend a luxurious holiday. There are also the families, who
As with the others, I believe the biggest
come to spend a holiday together and bond
issue is that our rates collide with OTA’s
with each other to make up for the inability
from the Middle East. Sometimes, due to
to connect due to their busy lives.
some issues you are unable to see the rates submitted by resorts in the Maldives and due to this, we find it very difficult to retain
What was the biggest challenge some bookings. I think it is safe to say that that you faced while running this Middle Eastern tourists are impatient on agency? some terms and having to deal with resorts, It is never easy running a travel agency
trying to get them suitable rates, could result in us losing the booking as well. Due
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
14 PEOPLE pinpoint what are the greatest ones. Even
online booking as we were not that big of
so, I would like to highlight how we were
a company. However, with the increase
able to grow out of our original work which
in online systems, things have become
was crew accommodation, to being a travel
more competitive. When resorts have low
agency in 2011. After that, newer areas of
booking rates, they post on OTA’s such as
business have sprouted from our company,
Booking.com, Expedia and Agoda in order
which is also something to be proud of in
to attract potential tourists. This becomes
my opinion.
a major challenge for us as a local travel agency. In order to make our business more
RASHEED ABDULLAH
DIRECTOR SALES & MARKETING AT SUN OCEAN PVT. LTD.
As you focus mainly on the Italian Market, can you tell us why most Italians travel to Maldives? Also, how has the market changed over the years?
How many foreign tour operators are you working with currently?
There are two main reasons as to why Italian
We have foreign operators from all around
travelers visit Maldives. These reasons are
the world. I believe the total would be
for both family vacation and honeymoon.
around 150. Our main operators are from
In the past, we witnessed a time where
either Italy, Eastern Europe, and Nordic
the Italian financial crisis caused a major
countries. These countries are followed
setback on the market which cause a rise
by the Middle East along with their GCC
followed by a drop in the arrival numbers.
countries. We also have tour operators
Fortunately, in the past 2 years, the market
from markets such as India and other
seems to be on the rise. In order to increase
countries throughout Asia such as Malaysia
the current numbers, we need to increase
and even Singapore.
we should do, the tourist arrivals would now, we have always treated the Italian market as our number one priority in the past and even now so as well. I think the My I have been working in the tourism
reason why we lean towards Italian market
industry for about 30 or so years. Unlike
is because I have a history with Italians,
many others in the industry, I mark my
having worked in their company. Along with
beginning in the industry by working at
that, we also have Italian staff and we are
tourist souvenir shops. I then moved on
also able to converse in the Italian language
to an Italian company which sparked my
which helps when dealing with Italians who
interest in the Italian market. In 2004, after
arrive in Maldives.
the discontinuation of the company we
Honestly, the future is the European
What is your opinion regarding direct flights from Italy and how would it affect the market share in Maldives?
parity. A lot of resorts have their own rate
company, its foreign employees told us
parity which makes the role of the local
to look for an alternative work. While
DMC’s even more insignificant than it used
looking for something to do, we met with
to be. Moreover, resorts would rather
the people who sent crew accommodation
wish to work directly with foreign agents
to Bodu Hithi and were looking for a new
which once again, puts local DMC’s at a
partner in Male. When they asked us for a
disadvantage. Even though some resorts
favour it gave us the idea to start our own
do choose local DMC’s, many lean towards
difficult. We began from level zero and put in numerous efforts to finally get here.
Which market do you mainly set your focus on?
currently number 1 and other Asian markets are on the rise, it is a known fact that the Chinese tourists are not fixated on one destination and travel to many different
Currently there is only 1 direct flight from
countries. However, looking at the current
Italy which is namely, Air Italia. Though
demographics and its potential, I would like
there are not enough flight connections
to believe that the European market will
from Italy to Maldives, I would like to believe
overtake China in the future.
Speaking of challenges, what are your greatest successes? There have been many little successes here when we began. Due to this, it is difficult to
What advice would you like to give to aspiring young hoteliers? The most important advice I would like to give is to work as honestly as possible.
their operations to Maldives in the coming
Work hard to achieve as many milestones
winter. In my opinion, this shows that the
as possible. It is also not uncommon
market is growing and that the market
knowledge that many people have the wrong
has proved to be worthy to be invested in.
idea about the hospitality industry. Try to
When the additional flights commence, the
be the person who changes their mentality
numbers are sure to increase in the future.
on the industry with your honest and hard work. I have worked in this industry for over
As a company that started off 15 years ago, in terms of operation, foreign agents, which makes our work more what are the major changes that challenging. you have seen?
and there as we have come a long way from Even though we work with several markets
market. Even though China market is
that the arrival numbers compliment the
Due to the circumstance of my then
off a small capital which proved to be really
What do you think will be the main market for Maldives in the future?
increase in the future.
When focusing on the Italian flight connections available to Italian market, what are the main company which is Sun Oceans Pvt Ltd. tourists well. It is also to be noted that challenges you face in bring them arrivals are also increasing due to the use What led you to start a travel here to Maldives? of scheduled flights. Moreover, Alitalia and agency and how was it like at the Air Italy are also planning on commencing The biggest challenge that we face is rate start? were working in, I decided to start my own
crew accommodation company. We started
services more accessible online.
marketing efforts made in Italy. I believe that once we market Maldives as much as
How did you start off in the tourism industry?
successful we need to work on making our
Automation has taken over the travel industry. Customers rely more on online platforms than the traditional booking process we are used to. Earlier we did not
have
many
challenges
regarding
30 years and always tried to instill these values in my work. I believe that is what has gotten me to where I am.
PEOPLE 15
MOHAMED AHMED ‘MAX’ DIDI APPOINTED AS THE REVENUE AND RESERVATIONS MANAGER AT VAKKARU MALDIVES Mohamed Ahmed ‘Max’ Didi has been
comfortable working independently and as
appointed as the Revenue and Reservations
an integrated team member.
Manager at Vakkaru Maldives. He has
Max started his career in the tourism
been working in the hospitality industry
industry at White Sands Resort and Spa now
for over 16+ years. He is a self-motivated
knows as LUX* Maldives. He was working
tourism professional, with a strong and
as an Assistant Reservations Manager
diverse background in Online Distribution,
for almost 5 years and then moved to
Revenue Management, Sales, Contracting
Paradise Holidays PVT LTD as the Sales and
and Administration.
Reservations Manager. After 1.5+ years he
The hard-working, detail-oriented quick
joined Centara Hotels and Resorts as the
learner Max, previously was working at
Central Reservations Manager in Maldives.
Fushifaru Maldives. He is is a coach, a
He worked there for 7+ years until he joined
mentor, and a motivator to his team and is
Fushifaru Maldives in August 2017.
RAHUL MALHOTRA APPOINTED AS BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER AT WALDORF ASTORIA HOTELS & RESORTS Rahul Malhotra has been appointed as the
at Golden Opportunities Pvt Ltd and Guest
Business Development Manager at Waldorf
Service Assistant at Park Sheraton and
Astoria Hotels & Resorts. Before this post,
Towers.
he worked as the Reservations Manager at
He has a Diploma in Hotel Management from
One & Only Reethi Rah, Maldives.
IHM Tharamani, Chennai and a Bachelor’s
In addition to being the Reservations
Degree in Business Administration at
Manager at One & Only Reethi Rah, he
University of Madras, Chennai. He is skilled
also worked at Hideaway Beach Maldives
in Yield Management, Hotel Management
Resort & Spa as a Senior Sales, Reservation
and Hospitality.
and Revenue Manager. He also filled the Reservation and Revenue Manager post at Cheval Blanc Randheli, the position of Reservation Manager at One & Only Reethi Rah, Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Assistant Reservation Manager at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Trainer in Hotel Operations
16 PEOPLE
THE CASE FOR SCRAPPING SINGLEUSE PLASTICS IN MALDIVIAN RESORTS BY SONU SHIVDASANI The Maldives is awash with plastic. Plastic
compete with one another to serve different
received no push-back from our guests.
whose purpose was to encourage hotels
bottles litter the beaches, plastic bags get
types of branded water — often served in
It surprises me that luxury hotels still
to serve water bottled on site, but I was
caught up in coral reefs, bits of plastic even
plastic bottles. It is amazing they still do
compete with branded toiletries. We have
disappointed that more resorts did not sign
make their way into the stomachs of whale
this, when the discerning luxury traveler
never used branded toiletries in any of our
up. Hotel companies always have so many
sharks. Every year, there is more and more
knows all too well the impact that single-
resorts. We have always had our in-room
excuses for not getting rid of single-use
plastic litter. And every year, more and
use plastics cause.
amenities, such as shampoo and shower
plastics.
more people complain that the country’s
My wife Eva and I opened Soneva Fushi,
gel, delivered in large 5-gallon tubs that are
Fortunately, today, things are starting to
beauty is being ruined by plastic pollution.
in the Baa Atoll, in 1995. Since 2008, we
used to fill ceramic bottles that are refilled
change. We see more and more resorts
Some of the biggest culprits in this eco-
have never served water in plastic bottles.
when empty.
across the Maldives scrapping single-use
crime are resorts, whose consumption of
Period. We use reusable glass bottles, filled
Our experience with banning single-use
plastics and, for example, bottling their
single-use plastics is often far higher than
with water made at the island’s reverse-
plastic items has yielded many benefits. We
own water on site in reusable glass bottles.
that of local islands. Resorts are required
osmosis plant. (Very occasionally, a guest
earn around US$ 90,000 per year selling
This is welcome news. But I fear that many
by law to crush their waste and send it for
asks for branded water, which we will go
our own bottled water to guests (we donate
resorts will resist change – especially some
“safe” disposal, often to Thilafushi. But
and purchase at a neighboring resort. But
this entire sum to water charities). And
of the big, luxury brands.
frequently, it seems that the garbage never
this happens rarely).
banning branded water has not affected
To really grapple with plastic pollution in
makes it there. Instead, it blows off the
The same is true of Soneva Jani, which
our bottom line. Our RevPAR (average rate
the Maldives, the new government should
back of dhonis, or is dumped in the sea
opened in the Noonu Atoll in 2016.
multiplied by occupancy) at Soneva Jani
consider an outright ban on single-use
while nobody is watching.
In almost 25 years operating resorts
is often the highest in the Maldives, and
plastics. I cannot see the tourism industry
Even the plastic waste that does make it to
worldwide, I cannot recall a single guest
probably one of the highest of any hotel in
changing on its own. Once people are
Thilafushi is burned in a giant, toxic bonfire.
ever complaining that their water was
the world. I believe that a company must
pushed to change, though, often they
Huge plumes of poisonous smoke can often
served in a glass bottle. Instead, guests
have a purpose beyond paying employees
realize things are better and it simplifies
be seen wafting over Male’. Goodness
are happy they are not contributing to the
salaries and shareholders dividends. I
their operations. It tends to be win-win all
knows the damage it is doing to children’s
plastic problem, and they like the beautiful
believe that our SLOWLIFE Core Purpose
around.
lungs.
ceramic tops on our glass bottles, and the
is one that rings true to both our hosts and
Resorts cannot keep polluting this beautiful
There is, however, hope that we can turn
elegantly designed jugs, in which we serve
guests alike. Reducing our use of plastics
country with plastics. We cannot keep
the tide on plastics. The most effective
drinking water.
reinforces this Core Purpose; thus making
shrugging our shoulders in apathy when
solution is at source: discontinuing the use
Resorts can also remove other single-
the brand more valuable.
visitors complain about plastic litter on
of plastics. Resorts must play a leading
use plastics from their supply chains. At
Over the years, I have tried to persuade the
the beaches, thundis, or coral reefs. For
role and phase out the use of single-use
Soneva, we have used paper, wood and
hospitality industry to follow some of our
tourism to keep flourishing, we must put an
plastic bottles, bags and other items. I
bamboo straws since we started. We have
sustainability examples. I co-founded and
end to the scourge of single-use plastics.
find it remarkable that in 2019, hotels still
never used plastic straws. Again, we have
chaired the Whole World Water charity,
PEOPLE 17
INCREDIBLE LOCAL TALENTS RECRUITED BY WALDORF ASTORIA MALDIVES ITHAAFUSHI Waldorf Astoria has recruited two of the
Nazim Mohamed has over 20+ years
most experienced hospitality professionals
of experience working in the Maldivian
in Maldives, Nasrulla Adam, and Nazim
hospitality
Mohamed, as Director of Sales and Front
he worked as a Front Office Manager
Office Manager respectively.
at Anantara Hotels, Resorts, and Spa;
Nasrulla Adam has been working in the
Kanuhura Maldives; Vakkaru Maldives; and
tourism industry for over 16+ years. He
Marriott International.
holds an Honours Degree in Hospitality and
His first job in the tourism industry was as
Tourism Management from the Birmingham
a Front Desk Agent at Lily Beach Resort
College of Food-Tourism-Creative Studies.
and Spa. Surprisingly, he took a break
He is one of the most well-known and
from the industry for a year to pursue a
respected Director of Sales working in the
career as a musician playing in Dandana
industry currently due to his enthusiastic
Band as a Bass Guitarist and Vocalist.
and hardworking nature. Previously, he has
However, he soon realized his passion was
worked at The Small Maldives Island Co. as
the hospitality industry so he joined Soneva
well as at Baros Maldives.
Group as a Guest Relation Officer, and then
He began his career in the hospitality
as a Butler at Soneva and Coco Collections,
industry at Sun Island Resort and Spa,
before joining W Hotels as a Front Office
working there for over 7 years before joining
Supervisor. He was soon promoted to
Anantara Kihavah Villas. After working
Assistant Front Office Manager at W Hotels.
as an Assistant Reservation Manager for
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, set
9 years in different resorts including Sun
to debut on 1st July, is the fifth Waldorf
Island and Spa, Anantara Kihaavah Villas
Astoria property to open in the region. It is
and Huvafenshi by Per AQUUM, he was
a part of Hilton Honours, just 30 minutes
promoted to Reservations Manager at
away from Malé International Airport via
Huvafen Fushi by Per Aqumm. Within 8
the resort’s private yacht. The resort boasts
months he became the Cluster Reservation
122 luxurious villas, each equipped with a
Manager of Huvafenshi and Niyama by Per
pool and uninterrupted views of the Indian
AQUUM and in 7 months he had worked
Ocean in its own private enclave.
industry.
Before
Waldorf,
his way up to the Senior Sales Manager at Huvafenfushi Per AQUUM.
RAHUL MALHOTRA APPOINTED AS BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER AT WALDORF ASTORIA HOTELS & RESORTS Soneva, the world-leading luxury resort operator,
founder of Atlantic Estates, a network of estate
welcomes Artur Simes and Sonika Adlakha to its
agencies, which later became affiliated to Sotheby’s
Soneva Villa Ownership (SVO) team.
International Realty. Before joining Soneva Artur
The Soneva Villa Ownership program is the first
served as the Chief Operating Officer Sales &
and only such programme that allows clients to
Marketing at Royal Park Mauritius and as Director
own a luxury villa in the Maldives. The programme
of Sales & Marketing at Porto Montengegro. Artur
is particularly appealing to those who frequently
joins the Soneva team as the Managing Director –
holiday in Maldives. The villas are designed
Soneva Villa Onwership.
and built according to the needs of the owners
Sonika Adlakha brings almost two decades
and, once built, are looked after by the Soneva
of hospitality experience. She has previously
management team. When owners are not
worked with Shangri-La Resorts, Las Vegas Sands
holidaying in their villas, they can opt to rent them
Corporation and InterContinental Group. Most
out by joining Soneva’s Villa Rental Programme.
recently she was the Director of Sales for the Sun
With extensive experience in the hospitality
Aqua brand under Sun Siyam Group, in Maldives.
and real estate sectors, Artur brings a wealth
Sonika joins the Soneva team as the Director of
of experience to the SVO program. Artur is the
Sales – Soneva Villa Ownership.
18 PEOPLE
ROSHAN RADHAY APPOINTED AS THE REGIONAL DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING AT LUX* RESORTS & HOTELS – MALDIVES & MIDDLE EAST Lux* Resorts & Hotels has appointed Roshan
impeccable track record mainly focused on
Radhay as the new Regional Director of
hotel openings and business development.
Sales and Marketing for the Maldives and
Moreover, Russian-born Roshan is fluent in
the Middle East at its two properties in the
English, French, Russian, Spanish, Hindi,
Maldives, LUX* South Ari Atoll and LUX*
and Mauritian-Creole.
North Male’ Atoll.
In a statement given by Sydney Pierre,
Most recently, Roshan served as the Cluster
Senior Vice President of Commercial at
Director of Sales at Shangri-La Barr Al
The LUX* Collective noted, “With Roshan’s
Jissah Resort & Spa and Shangri-La Al Husn
impressive record of proven success, the
Resort & Spa, Bahrain. He has previously
company is excited to have him onboard to
held key positions with major leading
further strengthen the relationship with key
premium brands such as One & Only Seef
partners, boost the growth of the group as
Bahrain, One & Only Le Saint Géran,
well as to continually execute with precision
Jumeirah Royal Saray in Bahrain and Sofitel
and confidence.”
Luxury Hotels and Resorts.
Mauritius-based LUX* operates two resorts
Roshan brings with him over 10 years
in the Maldives: LUX* South Ari Atoll and
of demonstrated experience in luxury
the recently opened LUX* North Male Atoll.
hospitality, sales and marketing with an
RASHVAN IBRAHIM APPOINTED AS THE RESIDENT MANAGER AT YOU & ME BY COCOON Rashvan Ibrahim has been appointed as the
You & Me by Cocoon Maldives is a brand
Resident Manager at You & Me by Cocoon.
new adults-only island targeted for couples,
Most recently, he worked as the Director of
honeymooners, and friends which is owned
Food and Beverage at Sheraton Maldives
and managed by Cocoon Investments. This
Full Moon Resort & Spa.
is the second resort under their operations,
He has previously worked in major leading
first being Cocoon Maldives which opened
premium brands such as Baros Maldives,
in March 2017.
Millennium & Copthorne Hotels, Sun Siyam
.
Resorts, Constance Hotels Experience, Six Senses Oman and at Taj Hotels & Resorts. Rashvan is fluent in Hindi, English, and Dhivehi. He is skilled in F&B Management, Hotel Management, and Hospitality. Located in Raa Atoll, Northern Maldives,
PEOPLE 19
ROSEWOOD HOTELS VIRGIN GORDA RESORT APPOINTS NEW HR HEAD RIZAN AFEEF Rosewood Hotels & Resorts has appointed
Moreover, Rizan is a certified PADI open
Rizan’s tenure with Rosewood Hotels Virgin
Rizan Afeef as the new Director of Human
water and enriched air diver. He was
Gorda has begun in March 2019.
Resources at Little Dix Bay, British Virgin
awarded
Hong Kong-based, Rosewood Hotels &
Islands.
Hospitality Leaders” award by World HRD
Resorts®
Rizan has a strong track record in human
Congress and “Most Talented HR Leaders
luxury properties in 15 countries, with
resources with 16 years of experience across
2017” by HR Maldives in 2018.
23 new hotels under development. The
several blue-chip hospitality brands, all with
Rizan commented on his new position: “I
Rosewood collection includes some of the
a particular focus in shaping the culture of
am passionate about working with teams to
world’s most legendary hotels and resorts,
the business, organization design, team
both help elevate the brand in the eyes of its
including The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel
development, and talent management.
guests but also the wider community. This is
in New York, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle
Most recently, Rizan served as the Director
a vital combination in making a hotel work
Creek in Dallas and Hôtel de Crillon and A
of Human Resources & Training at Six Senses
successfully. As one of the world’s leading
Rosewood Hotel in Paris.
Laamu, Maldives. He has previously held
luxury hospitality brands, Rosewood will be
key positions with major leading premium
really challenging and exciting to work for.
brands such as Anantara Hotels Maldives,
I’m confident that my background in talent
Minor Hotel Group Malaysia, Velaa Private
acquisition and management will help us to
Island, Four Seasons, and Starwood Hotels
put in place a structure which can support
& Resorts.
our ambitious sales plans.”
the
“Asia’s
Most
Innovative
manages
24
one-of-a-kind
20 AVIATION
AIRASIA AIMS TO DISRUPT ONLINE TRAVEL AirAsia CEO Tony Fernandes is taking
with value, which can be used to build other
AirAsia on the final part of the company’s
businesses. It’s easy to change people’s
evolution, one that will see the airline
mindset about AirAsia to an online travel
become a tech player by disrupting the
agency. It’s just advertising and branding,
disruptors in the online travel space.
something which they are very good at said,
They started investing in OTAs as they have
Fernandes.
better data and reach than many of the
They have never advertised hotels, holidays
other OTAs. They have been building the
but now they are going to be selling hotels,
right people, systems and infrastructures
holidays, etc. And they are planning to
for the platform business. And now they
bring some cool things with AI, machine
are ready to unleash the monster machine.
learning and voice that no other OTA has
They also expect AirAsia.com to sell tickets
done before. They are developing a smart
of non-competing carriers on their website
travel planner for customers. They will also
as well.
have their own messenger product and
After 18 years in business, AirAsia is now the
customers can continue their journey doing
largest low-cost carrier in Southeast Asia
tours and activities, shopping and so on
and has been gifted with a huge customer
with them.
base and data, and a brand synonymous
THE GOVERNMENT DISMISSED R.FAINU AIRPORT PROJECT DUE TO ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES A The government has made the decision to
previous government and Abdula Haris,
stop the construction of R.Fainu Airport due
the Former Managing Director of Island
to the negative impacts on the environment
Aviation Services to complete the first phase
by the project.
of the Airport Runway and Terminal within
Fainu will lose 31 hectares of vegetation in
one years time. Although there has been
a dense jungle area, which is equivalent to
no progress on the construction of Fainu
57 football fields in size, including several
Airport. The Agreement was signed on
hectares of agricultural land. Islanders will
May 2018 to hand over the Construction of
also lose access to 2.18 kilometers of beach
Fainu Aiport’s to Island Aviation Services.
to the airport’s security zone and the gated
customers can continue their journey doing
hotel. A further four hectares of land will be
tours and activities, shopping and so on
reclaimed for the airport.
with them.
An agreement was signed between the
MALDIVIAN TO BEGIN FLIGHTS TO EUROPE The National Airline of Maldives, Maldivian
travels to Europe, wide-body aircrafts
has geared up for regular flights to Europe
are necessary and that any other similar
with its necessary plans now underway as
requirements shall be looked into along
per Managing Director of Maldivian, Mr.
with the research being conducted.
Mohamed Rizvi.
Currently, the only foreign destinations that
In an interview, Mr. Rizvi explained that if
Maldivian travels to include China, India
they are able to pull this off, they would be
and Bangladesh.
able to increase the number of tourists who visit Maldives from Europe and bring about an increase in profits generated. He further clarified that the feasibility research required when looking for a new destination to travel to is currently underway. He added that in order to begin
AVIATION 21
PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY FOR SEAPLANE OPERATIONS BY FLYME Flyme of Villa Air is set to begin seaplane
Flyme is a domestic Airline based in
operations with the opening of the new
Maldives operated by Villa Air which is part
seaplane terminal in Velana International
of the Villa Group of Companies. Flyme
Airport (VIA). The new airport terminal will
provides scheduled flights to domestic
open in August 2019 and will have twice the
airports, serving both the local as well as
capacity of the current airport terminal.
the international markets. Their objective
The Airline has ordered four de Havilland
is to provide an exceptional service to all
Canada Series 300 Twin Otter floatplanes,
passengers traveling on our airline.
as per Mr. Abdulla Nashid, Managing
and activities, shopping and so on with
Director of Flyme. He added that the
them.
aircrafts will be delivered in October. He further mentioned that the maintenance crews prefer the Series 300 model over the Viking Air 400 model due to its proven reliability.
IATA TRAINING TO BE CONDUCTED BY CORAL ACADEMY
The Coral Academy of the Maldives
seat miles being accounted for by this
was granted a permit to carry out the
association, a Maldivian aviation training
International Air Transport Association
company receiving approval to conduct
(IATA) training programmes in the Maldives.
their training in the Maldives is a huge step
According to the Marketing and PR Manager
forward for Coral Academy as well as the
of Coral Academy, Ms. Zaushan Nazeer,
Maldivian airline industry.
this is the first time that an aviation training
Through Coral Academy, IATA approved
company in the Maldives was granted such
cabin crew training and IATA approved
permission to carry out IATA approved
marketing
training programmes.
available. While both courses are priced
International Air Transport Association
at an average MVR 10,600 and are 10-day
is a world-class airline trade association,
programmes. The cabin crew training is to
operating in 117 different countries with
be held during the month of June, and the
about 280 airlines operating through
IATA training for marketing will be held in
it. With roughly 82% of world air traffic
July according to Coral Academy
training
are
now
publicly
20 AVIATION
FOUR SEASONS LANDAA GIRAAVARU REVEALS TRIGGERFISH INSPIRED AIRCRAFT The Flying Triggerfish is the first ever
“We wanted to design a plane that celebrates
customized airplane by Four Seasons and
the vibrancy of our destination,” comments
arguably one of the most picturesque and
Armando Kraenzlin, Four Seasons Resorts
luxurious of planes to fly in the Maldivian
Maldives Regional Vice President. “The
skies. With flights cruising at 3500 ft.,
Flying Triggerfish offers seamless Four
guests would see a breathtaking sight of the
Seasons service and style from the moment
Maldivian islands during their transfer.
guests arrive, in a unique and exciting way.”
Inspired by the colorful Picasso triggerfish
Flying Triggerfish transfers are available
found in Maldivian waters, the private plane
to book per person per way or as private
is completely customized inside and out,
customized charters for up to 8 persons.
from luxuriously refurbished floor, ceiling
Private charters include CIP services.
and sidewalls to an enhanced Garmin
Island-hopping excursions and seaplane
950NXi avionics suite. With half the number
surfaris are also available.
of seats of a commuter seaplane, guests can stretch out in comfort and enjoy Four Seasons amenities such as noise-canceling headphones.
SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS LAUNCHING NON-STOP CHARTER FLIGHTS TO MALDIVES
South African Airways (SAA) has launched
world,” says Tlali Tlali, Spokesperson
non-stop charter flights to Maldives from
for SAA according to a staff reporter
April until October 2019.
SAA was the
at Business Report Online. “Maldives is
first long haul international carrier to fly to
undoubtedly, the obvious choice for a
Gan International Airport, situated at the
memorable holiday, especially over the cold
southern tip of Maldives 0.65 degrees south
South African winter.”
of the Equator in November last year.
By flying direct to the southern part of the
South Africans and international travelers
Maldives, SAA can reduce the flying time
can make use of the specially chartered
from 16 hours (via the Middle East) to
flights following the conclusion of an
only 7 hours. The Maldives flights follow a
exclusive
between
number of other charters SAA successfully
SAA and Air Tour Operators (ATO) and
operated this year. SAA’s charter operations
the Tourism Ministry of the Maldives, for
increased dramatically over the past couple
non-stop flights between South Africa and
of months. SAA will be selling the packages
Maldives.
through their three City Ticketing Offices
“Holiday-makers can look forward to
(CTO) in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape
unrivaled
Town.
charter
luxury,
agreement
pristine
white
sand
beaches, and an amazing underwater
AVIATION 21
ACJ LAUNCHED THEIR NEW FLIGHT – ACJ319NEO The newest flight of the Airbus Corporate
firm orders for the A320 family. This
Jets (ACJ) has been successfully launched
includes the total 14 corporate jet orders
as the ACJ319neo and has completed
and commitments for the ACJ320neo
its first flight which lasted 1 hour and 55
family derived aircraft. And from the 700
minutes. This was only the beginning as it
aircraft, there are 200 Airbus corporate jets
was a short flight-test programme to verify
in service worldwide including Antarctica.
its features such as its fuel tanks which allow intercontinental range. The aircraft was built for K5 Aviation of Germany but will be equipped with a VIP cabin by Fokker Techniek in the Netherlands. Derived from the A320 family, the new ACJ319neo will feature new engines and wingtip-mounted Sharklets as well as lower cabin-altitude for greater passenger comfort. With about more than 700 A320neo family aircraft already in service, there are 15000
EMIRATES TO DEPLOY ITS REVAMPED B777 TO MALDIVES
Dubai airline Emirates will begin regular
in the middles aisle where it projects a view
flights to the Maldives on June 1 with its
from outside the aircraft using real-time
latest Boeing 777-300 ER craft.
fiber-optic camera technology. Cabins also
Tailored with first-class private suites, the
include privacy panels between seats, shoe
latest Emirates aircraft features comfortably
storage area, footrest, and a personal mini-
designed seats, upgrades and latest version
bar.
of the ice flight entertainment systems
Currently, the airline operates Boeing 777-
across all the cabins. The new suites
300 ER to Brussels, Geneva, Vienna, Tokyo
include seats that recline into a fully flat-
(Haneda), London Stansted and Riyadh
bed and can be placed in a ‘zero-gravity’
and plans to deploy the aircraft on flights
state which is inspired by NASA technology,
to Kuwait from June onward. The Maldives
for a feeling of weightlessness while flying.
will become the first destination in the South
The industry’s ‘first virtual windows’ can be
Asian region to be served on a regular basis
experienced by customers seated in suites
by the new aircraft.
22 AVIATION
SCOOT TO STOP ITS FLIGHTS TO FOUR DESTINATIONS Scoot Airlines will stop its flights to four destinations
They can also obtain a full refund on their booking via
within this year due to weak demand and a shortage
their original mode of payment, or a 120% refund via a
of flights. The cities are Lucknow in India, Kalibo in
Scoot Travel Voucher.
the Philippines, Quanzhou in China and Malé in the
The aircraft shortage has come about because SilkAir is
Maldives.
no longer able to transfer its Boeing 737-800NG aircraft
With carrier flights to Lucknow, Kalibo, and Quanzhou
to Scoot in the current financial year, as originally
3 times weekly, and flights to Malé four times a week,
announced in November 2018, Scoot said. Both Scoot
the suspension of these flights will affect its current
and SilkAir are part of the Singapore Airlines group.
regular customers after it ends in late October.
The last flights from Singapore will depart on June 29
Customers with existing bookings have been contacted
for Lucknow, June 30 for Kalibo, Aug 24 for Quanzhou
and offered several options, including bringing forward
and Oct 25 for Male’.
their travel dates while the services are still operating.
VELANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT CELEBRATES ITS 53RD ANNIVERSARY Maldives Airports Company Ltd (MACL) has celebrated
on the occasion after which MACL staff hosted a
the 53rd Anniversary of Velana International Airport
spectacular show with some breath taking dances and
(VIA) on 12th April 2019. To mark the occasion, a
short stage drama items. At the evening show attended
series of events were held to celebrate the airport’s
by over 700 staff, extravagant gifts were given on stage
anniversary. The day started with the official flag hoisting
as lucky draw items.
ceremony at 0600 hrs. The Acting Managing Director
On occasion of Airport’s 53rd Anniversary, a number of
of MACL Mr. Moosa Solih and Company Secretary
events were done at Velana International Airport. They
Ms. Shaheema Hussain did the honors after which a
included the opening of 14 new check-in counters and
ceremonial cake was cut along with MACL staff.
the opening of New Aerodrome & Ground Aids Building.
On the night of 53rd Anniversary, MACL hosted a
Furthermore, VIA’s New Mobile Application & MACL’s
colourful “Maldivian Themed” evening show. The
new website were launched in a special ceremony.
Acting MD of MACL Mr. Moosa Solih gave a speech
HANIMAADHOO AIRPORT TO HOST INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS Minister of Tourism, Honorable Ali Waheed has stated
In order to increase the frequency of flights of
that within the upcoming 5 years, Hanimaadhoo
international
Airport would host international flights. He mentioned
mentioned that they had recently had a discussion with
this during a press conference held in order to release
Singapore Airlines. However, he added that the size
tourism statistics of March 2019.
and crowded nature of Velana Airport was proving to
During the press conference, the Minister explained
be a huge challenge for that and that the opening of
that the introduction of tourism to all the areas of the
the upcoming runway and terminal will bring about
country was an aim of the government. Hon. Ali Waheed
significant solutions to the existing problems.
added that it was a high priority of the government to develop the northern part of the country. Under this aim, arrangements for international flights from several foreign destinations will be made in Hanimaadhoo Airport.
airlines
to
Maldives,
the
Minister
TRAVEL TECH 23
TECHNOLOGY CHANGING THE GAME IN THE TOURISM INDUSTRY Our lives are becoming more and more technological and we are becoming more and more dependent on technological devices. Slowly, but surely, the tourism and hospitality industry is also becoming more and more tech-savvy just like the rest of the world. The following are some of the high-tech hotels in the world who have associated technology into their services.
1.Hotel Ottilia, Copenhagen
which carries out your little tasks.
Hotel Ottilia partnered with ACT.Global, a Danish company and uses their ACT
3. Eccleston Square Hotel, London
CleanCoat technology. This technology
Though it has a historic looking exterior,
enables the room to clean themselves with
the inside of this hotel is highly dependent
a transparent and odorless coating which
on technology. Keyboards are available to
purifies the air in the room for an year.
control music and lighting inside the hotel, iPads act as a room attendant, bathroom
2. Henn na Hotel, Nagasaki
mirrors are installed with flat screen
Henn na Hotel is highly automated and
television’s embedded in them along with
shows
instant frosting feature available in shower
their
advancements
from
the
reception itself where a velociraptor and
glass walls.
human robot greets you. These robots are
Tourism is the most prominent industry
smart enough to carry on conversations
in Maldives and will see technology being
in basic English and Japanese. There is a
incorporated into the industry even more
robot that carries your luggage to the room
than now with the coming years.
and one that stays with you in the room
24 TRAVEL TECH
MALDIVES WHALE SHARK RESEARCH PROGRAMME RELEASED ‘THE REEF’ COMMISSIONED BY APPLE ‘The Reef’ shot on an iPhone commissioned
the power of the ordinary tourist or keen
by Apple was posted on Apple’s official
amateur naturalist in helping gather truly
Youtube Channel on 15th April. The film
useful field data.
is a tribute to the hard work of the in-field
The pattern-comparison algorithm used in
team of the Maldives Whale Shark Research
the “Who’s that Whale Shark” feature was
Programme(MWSRP) and the volunteers
originally developed by Jurgen den Hartog
to appreciate their efforts over the last
and Renate Reijns for their popular photo
decade.
ID software, I3S.
A charity that is breaking new grounds
“A big thank you to the film crew for this
in whale shark research and fostering
masterpiece you created which reflects
community focused conservations initiatives
both the work we carry out on a daily basis
in Maldives and the greater Indian Ocean.
and what a true family the programme
The field team of the MWSRP monitors the
feels for all of us.” was captioned on their
demographics and movement of different
Instagram page of MWSRP by thanking
species such as whale sharks using an IOS
the film crew. The film by Sven Dreesbach
app. You can download the MWSRP app via
was produced by Julia Etzelmueller. The
https://apple.co/MWSRPapp
cinematography
The app used to identify the whale shark
Vargas & Julia Etzelmueller. And also, with
you have just swum with, learn its name,
the contributions of John Agnew as the
its vital stats and keep updated every time
Creative Director and Praneet Kailey as the
it’s seen in the future. Planning a trip or
Social Producer.
simply spotty about whale sharks, keep up
The Maldives Shark Research Programme
to date with other whale shark sightings
(MWSRP)’s goal is to advance the field of
and all the latest whale shark research and
whale shark knowledge and to advocate for
conservation news from the Maldives!
sound conservation policy in the Maldives.
‘Whale Shark Network Maldives’ takes
By encouraging and valuing community and
spot-pattern
technology
industry stakeholder participation, they are
that has long since been the preserve of
able to leverage the scientific research to
scientists and puts it in the hand of anyone
safeguard the rich biodiversity and fragile
with a mobile device. It’s hoped this app
marine ecosystems that are the basis for not
could accelerate the study of the world’s
only whale sharks, but also life, livelihood,
largest fish and provide a blueprint for other
and culture in Maldives.
recognition
was
done
by
Carlos
conservation organizations keen to harness
SOUNDSCAPE – BACKGROUND MUSIC TO YOUR SUCCESS A trailing thought at a café blaring EDM at
these experts will deliver fresh music that
9am turned into an idea that changed the
reflects your signature brand and unique
game. The creative minds at Soundscape
atmosphere.
have created the first one-stop sound
With clients such as the likes of Kandima
solution in the Maldives.
Maldives, Coco Chic and Seagull Café
This music consultancy service gives your
under their wing, Soundscape strives to
brand its own distinct background music.
help your brand stand out.
The system boasts bespoke playlists crafted by seasoned curators. Rest assured knowing
ACCOMODATION 25
ONE&ONLY REETHI RAH LISTED AS ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL HOTEL POOLS IN THE WORLD One&Only Reethi Rah, Maldives listed as
notable mentions included in the list that
one of the most beautiful hotel pools in the
perfectly compliment their environmental
world according to the Architectural Digest.
surroundings with unique designs that are
One&Only Reethi Rah in the Indian Ocean
both beautiful and creative;
has no shortage of places to cool off and relax. While some overwater bungalows
1.Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas,
have their own private pools, the adults-
India
only serenity pool overlooking the lagoon
2.Capella Ubud, Indonesia
is almost 100 feet long with an internal
3.Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti,
jacuzzi.
Tanzania
One&Only Reethi Rah offers 130 private
4.Belmond Hotel Caruso, Italy
resort villas well separated along the shore,
5.Aman Tokyo, Japan
either on the beach secluded by lush
6.The Mulia, Indonesia
tropical greenery, or set above the clear,
7.Four Seasons The Nam Hai, Vietnam
protected waters of the lagoon. Designed
8.Villa d’Este, Italy
in an elegant contemporary style, these are
9.Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, France
amongst one of the largest resort villas in
10.Hotel Indigo Hong Kong Island,
the world.
Hong Kong
Swimming pools are arguably the heart
11.Grace Hotel, Santorini, Auberge Resorts
and center of any luxury hotel. Its the
Collection, Greece
place to relax, so it comes as no surprise that hotel properties have seriously been stepping up their swimming pool game in recent years with awe-inspiring designs and unique amenities. Here are some of the
BANYAN TREE HOTELS & RESORTS CELEBRATES 25TH ANNIVERSARY WITH OVER 25% REDUCTION OF SINGLEUSE PLASTIC IN A YEAR
Bandos Maldives announced that they will
“If a straw isn’t required for your drink,
no longer be making use of plastic straws in
join with us in this worldwide movement
the resort. They made this announcement
and commit to skipping the straw which
through their Facebook page as part of
is only a small step that will go a long
their Earth Day 2019 celebrations and as
way in protecting our species.” said the
part of reducing the usage of single-use
announcement made by Bandos.
plastic in the resort.
Bandos had previously switched over to
With regards to the decision to discontinue
reusable glass bottles in order to reduce
single-use plastic straws, the resort ceased
the usage of single-use plastic in the resort.
to use plastic straws from 22nd April
They also produce their own water in their
onwards and asks guests to avoid usage
own drinking water facility.
of straws if possible. They added that if needed, a biodegradable straw will be provided.
26 ACCOMODATION
WALDORF ASTORIA MALDIVES ITHAAFUSHI OPENS IN JULY 2019 Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is
and communities through its philosophy of
set to open in July 2019. The resort is
“Embracing the Environment, Empowering
only a 30 minute ride away from Velana
People”.
International Airport. Various sorts of
Up to 80% of ocean plastic pollution
activities are offered at this resort which
originates from land. Recognising the
could be enjoyed by all generations.
detrimental
The resort consists of a collection of 122
environment and marine life, the premium
villas spread across the three islands. Each
hotel operator and developer implemented
villa is equipped with its personal pool
a plan for all its properties to phase out the
with spectacular views of the ocean. All
use of disposable plastics.
Reef, beach and overwater villas will open
The first year saw the strategic reduction
into an indoor and outdoor deck which
of 31 commonly used plastic products,
will consist of a swinging daybed, dining
particularly 1 million plastic bags (-28%),
gazebo, infinity pool, in-water lounge and
1.3 million plastic straws (-51%) replaced
an outdoor shower.
with paper, steel and bamboo straws, 1.28
Waldorf Astoria will include 11 dining
million plastic bottles (-28% water bottles
venues to offer various cuisines and to
& -63% soft drink bottles), cocktail stirrers
showcase the culinary expertise of Waldorf
(-58%) and plastic-wrapped minibar items
Astoria. It will also feature a two-bedroom
(-72%).
overwater villa along with a three bedroom
Aimed to be launched this year towards
beach villa which would give guests the
overall plastic reduction, the Group’s
absolute seclusion they need.
lifestyle retail arm – Banyan Tree Gallery is
“We are extremely proud to bring the brand
developing sustainable alternatives for its
to a destination as synonymous with luxury
range of guests’ amenities such as cotton
as the Maldives, and we look forward to
buds, combs and toothbrushes. Banyan
delivering unforgettable experiences that
Tree‘s reformulated body and aromatherapy
theme Protect Our Species, Banyan Tree
activities
reflect Waldorf Astotia’s unique sense of
products are made of 95% natural botanical
reinforces its efforts to safeguard the
ups, sustainability talks on environment
place and iconic service standards.” said
ingredients which are sustainably sourced.
natural environment and biodiversity. With
and 5Rs for responsible consumption and
Mr. Daniel Welk, vice president, luxury and
The 18-month research and development
many resorts located in eco-sensitive and
supporting international events such as
lifestyle group, Asia Pacific, Hilton.
extended across the value chain of both its
protected areas, the Group is dedicated to
Earth Day and World Environment Day.
If the guest needs to relax and let out stress,
packaging and ingredients so as to create
conserving the environment.
The Group also marked Earth Hour 2019
they can pay a visit to the Waldorf Astoria
the best possible products for people and
In addition, its dedicated Marine Labs, a
by engaging close to 15,000 people in 43
Spa comprised of ten overwater or garden
the environment.
first in the Maldives, and Conservation Lab
properties worldwide, leading to energy
villas offering a diverse menu of treatments
Dr Steve Newman, Assistant Vice President/
in Bintan support conservation through
savings of over 5,000 kWh – enough to
and Asian-inspired therapies focusing on
Group Sustainability Director, says: “This is
research,
power a four-bedroom public housing unit
relaxation and rebalance.
a positive first step in the right direction,
programmes. In 2018, the Group conducted
in Singapore for 13 months.
Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts Celebrates
considering the magnitude of Banyan Tree
annual monitoring of 18 coral reef sites and
Designed for travellers who champion
25th Anniversary With Over 25% Reduction
Hotels & Resorts’ ultimate plastic-free
shark populations in the Maldives and three
sustainable
development,
of Single-Use Plastic In A Year
goal. The hospitality and tourism industry
reef sites in Bintan, while seven Banyan Tree
Anniversary
“Exceptional
Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts celebrates its
as a whole is a major consumer of this
properties organised turtle awareness talks
Celebratory Offer includes the choice of a
25th Anniversary and Earth Day 2019 with
planet’s resources, often providing one-
and hatchling releases. Laguna Golf Lang Co
complimentary Exceptional Experience to
over 25% groupwide reduction of single-use
time use products on mass scales. Looking
is an edible course with padi fields, farmers
celebrate the Community with a Sustainable
plastic in a year. The Group announced a
at the links between human activities,
and buffalos while Laguna Golf Phuket and
Activity. It includes 25% savings on rooms
pledge against single-use plastic in support
plastic pollution and biodiversity loss with
Bintan use recycled water from the hotels
(Best Available Rate), food and beverage,
of Earth Day 2018 theme End Plastic
environment degradation, this presents
for irrigation as sustainable golf courses.
Spa and Gallery retail and the signature
Pollution. Within a year, this declaration
a unique opportunity for our Group to
Driven by Banyan Tree Global Foundation,
25th Anniversary Cocktail – The Botanical.
has inspired the change across its 48 hotels
impact and drive change on global plastic
the non-profit arm (an integral part of
During the stay, guests will be invited to
worldwide and successfully eliminated 4.2
consumption amongst our stakeholders
the management’s framework) focuses
partake in Banyan Tree’s 25th anniversary
million single-use plastic items, equating to
especially the suppliers. As a pioneer with
on directing social and environmental
groupwide sustainability activities from tree
a significant 26% reduction in total usage.
ongoing stewardship in sustainability, the
responsibility across the Group. Highlighting
planting, school projects to community
Championing 25 years of sustainable
Group remains committed to our pledge to
the power of responsible tourism to promote
home visits – focusing on its ethos of
development
in
eliminate single-use plastic and continues
positive change, Banyan Tree continually
creating better environments and enriching
1994, Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts has
to embed climate change within our
educates and involve guests, associates and
more lives as it celebrates 25 Years and
pioneered the journey of stewardship in
sustainability efforts and projects.”
the community to actively do their part for
beyond.
its commitment towards the environment
This year, in line with Earth Day 2019
the environment. This is achieved by driving
since
its
inception
effect
of
plastic
on
the
restoration
and
awareness
including
community
the
clean-
25th
Experiences”
ACCOMODATION 27
KULA ART FESTIVAL AT KANDIMA The KULA art initiative at Kandima originally
yellow and purple make for a beautiful
piloted on the 5th of October 2017 and has
finishing line.
been running as a first of its kind annual
At the very front of the KULA Art initiative
event. In the event, 20 local artists gather
is the resident artist and extraordinaire
and share their different forms of artistic
Aima Musthafa. With a knack for the arts
capabilities. While some go for the digital
and design and a professional background
artistic look, others prefer coffee, acrylic
in illustration and videography, Kandima
or spray paint. But don’t forget, there’s also
Maldives believes that her bubbly nature
henna painting as well as local crafts.
and infectious smile would be perfect for
KULA Arts Festival doesn’t end here yet,
their art studio which overlooks a beautiful
there’s also a series of fun beach games for
natural lake. Therefore, a visit to the
all ages to enjoy. With different art activities
Kandima Art Studio is sure to be a fun and
as well as something delicious to eat. The
colorful time for everyone.
magnificent representation is brilliant in its display of a carnival theme. With live art demonstrations, there are also art classes for guests with a fun color run at the end. The powdered colorful path of various colors such as blue, green, pink, orange,
AMILLA FUSHI’S NEW BLISSFUL BUNDLES ENTICE GUESTS TO ENHANCE THEIR MALDIVES EXPERIENCE Visitors to idyllic Maldives dreamscape
trainers, wellbeing experts or a ‘Visiting
Amilla Fushi can now begin shaping their
Hero’ practitioner. Sauna and steam rooms
island adventure in advance with the launch
await to round off the day.
of five new ‘blissful bundles’ – enchanting
Thrill seekers can plunge into the Water
bolt-on packages that build the buzz by
Adventure Bundle, promising a choice of
enticing guests to relax, discover, play and
exhilarating dives, aqua excursions, jet
indulge through a collection of carefully
skiing, hover-boarding and parasailing
curated – and substantially discounted –
sessions, as well as unlimited non-motorised
experiences. The pampering parcels include
sports activities. Active Pursuitsoffers a
a variety of additional enhancements, from
day of play, from private tennis lessons on
foodie forays, soothing spa sessions and
Amilla’s full size courts or energizing yoga
adrenalised adventures to complete island
or personal training; to sessions with the
indulgence, inviting Amilla acolytes to play
resort’s regular ‘Visiting Heroes’, ranging
it their way in anticipation of their arrival.
from artists and master jewelers to yogis
Food lovers can rejoice with the Dine
– with a complimentary babysitting service
and Imbibe Passport, offering boundless
ensuring guests are free to enjoy whichever
indulgence across more than 10 different
they choose.
dining
Island
Or of course, guests can revel in designing
Home delivery service; lunch at the new
their own unrestricted adventure with
nurturing Wellness Café; afternoon tea at
the inclusive Luxury Bliss Indulgence
theEmperor Beach Club; dinner at Amilla’s
bundle – the ultimate ‘bundle of bundles’,
award-winning signature restaurantFeeling
combining the foodie freedom of the Dine
Koi; plus a selected beverage package and
and Imbibe Passport with the luxury of any
mini bar service.
three activites from the Wellness and Spa
Wellness and Spa Time beckons for
Time, Water Adventure Bundle and Active
those seeking revitalization or relaxation.
Pursuits packages.
Guests
experiences,
including
can opt to immerse themselves
in a signature treatment from Javvu Spa’s integrated menu, featuring results-driven remedies from an expert edit of world-class brands including !QMS, iLA, Louise Galvin, Margaret Dabbs and Gentlemen’s Tonic; or sign up for sessions with Amilla’s personal
28 ACCOMODATIONS
MARRIOTT HOTELS SANCTION A BAN ON PLASTICS IN ALL THEIR PROPERTIES The use of plastic in daily life might not
of an estimated 1 billion plastic straws and
be
250 million stirrers would be eliminated.
equally
concerning
for
everyone.
The problem occurs when and where
This is a big deal not only because of the
the plastic ends up afterward – in our
scale of the ban implemented, but also
oceans. Therefore, when major companies
to the fact that hotels are ground zero for
take large scale initiatives for a greener
beverage consumption, and most hotels
tomorrow, it’s a good reason to celebrate.
and resorts are on a beachfront location
According to USA Today, Marriott Hotels
which makes it easier for the plastic to
will be executing a public ban on the use
make its way into the oceans. With this
of plastic straws across all of their hotels
initiative by the Marriott Hotels group, it
within the upcoming month. With almost
can be certain that in the near future that
6500 hotels under the Marriott Hotel
many more hotel groups will be encouraged
group, this would mean that the annual use
to follow.
ACCOMODATION 29
BANDOS MALDIVES DISCONTINUES USE OF PLASTIC STRAWS Bandos Maldives announced that they will
“If a straw isn’t required for your drink,
no longer be making use of plastic straws in
join with us in this worldwide movement
the resort. They made this announcement
and commit to skipping the straw which
through their Facebook page as part of
is only a small step that will go a long
their Earth Day 2019 celebrations and as
way in protecting our species.” said the
part of reducing the usage of single-use
announcement made by Bandos.
plastic in the resort.
Bandos had previously switched over to
With regards to the decision to discontinue
reusable glass bottles in order to reduce
single-use plastic straws, the resort ceased
the usage of single-use plastic in the resort.
to use plastic straws from 22nd April
They also produce their own water in their
onwards and asks guests to avoid usage
own drinking water facility.
of straws if possible. They added that if needed, a biodegradable straw will be provided.
EARTH DAY AT KURUMBA MALDIVES 2019
Earth Day at Kurumba Maldives began with
all ages. A special Mystery of Kurumba
a clean-up activity around beach and lagoon
tour was conducted, educating guests in
areas from early morning, followed by a
the effective recycling process at the back
trip to clean up trash in a remote sandbank
of our house.
nearby. Later in the evening, a reef clean-
The highlight of Earth Day this year at
up activity was also organized by Euro
Kurumba was the launch of
Divers for certified divers to participate in.
our “Fish-bins”. In the shape of fishes, these
A huge amount of trash mainly plastics were
four wire art sculptures were individually
collected during these activities alerting
hand crafted with an aim to use art as
everyone about the major environmental
a call to action. Each of these fish sculptures
issue which we are facing: plastic
has its own name and story and was filled
pollution in the ocean.
with plastic bottles to symbolize the threats
While across the globe, people are looking
of plastics to the ocean and its marine life.
for ways to give back to the environment in which they live, at Kurumba Maldives, we also had our ways to celebrate a responsible act of green. Tree planting activity was held with the participation of many guests from
30 ACCOMODATIONS
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Founded and guided by DJ Umar and DJ
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Vifak with over 20 years of experience,
with a flick of a switch. The headphones are
Uber Events provides hassle-free event and
wireless and transform a silent environment
DJ management services which are second
to a dance floor
to none. Among the DJ pool are some of
CELEBRITY NEWS 31
ABHISHEK AND AISHWARYA’S 12-YEAR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS AT NIYAMA PRIVATE ISLANDS MALDIVES Famous
BEST SELLING ARAB SINGER DIANA HADDAD TO PERFORM AT VELAA PRIVATE ISLAND MALDIVES’ EID GALA This Eid Al-Fitr, Velaa Private Island
she is still one of the best selling singers in
Maldives Resort is proud to present Diana
the Arab World and has released singles in
Haddad who will be conducting a live
Khaliji, Iraqi and Egyptian dialects.
performance at the Eid Gala dinner on 6th
The special Eid Gala dinner is set to take
of June.
place at the beachfront restaurant, Athiri
Recordbreak singer, Diana Haddad is a
from 19:00pm-00:00am where savory and
Lebanese singer and television personality
authentic Arabic cuisine will be catered to
who also holds Emirati citizenship and is
all guests. Reservations can be made by
based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
contacting the Velaa Private Island Maldives
Best known for her first song Saken in 1996,
Resort.
Ammanih in 1997 and Mas & Louly in 2006, HRS_19-707_TTM_AD_02_PATHED.pdf
1
15/4/19
14:58
Bollywood
Abhishek
Kisike Kum Nahin, Devdas, Dil Ka Rishta
Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai-Bachchan,
and more. Abhishek Bachchan is an actor
along with their child Aaradhya Bachchan
and producer and has played several roles
have visited the Maldives to celebrate 12
in movies such as the Dhoom series, Guru,
years since the couple’s wedding in 2007.
Run and etc.
Since their arrival, they have been sharing
Niyama Private Islands Maldives, located in
pictures of Niyama Private Islands Maldives
Dhaalu Atoll consists of two luxury islands
through
offering ultimate privacy to its guests. It is
their
couple,
respective
accounts.
highly suitable for romantic getaways and
Aishwarya Rai-Bachchan is an actress,
includes 134 villas on its two islands. The
model, philanthropist and the winner of
villas give an intimate feeling and are set
the 1994 Miss World pageant. She has
apart to allow you to remove yourself from
starred in various movies such as Hum
the hectic and busy world.
32 TTM
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
OVER 200 TOP OPERATORS Leading 200 operators from top 30 markets to Maldives.
means worldwide exposure.
VISION 2023 2.5 million tourists annually by 2023
SEARCH, CONNECT & PRESCHEDULE MEETINGS TTM Connects software allows you to create your profile, message and preschedule meetings with buyers, visitors and other exhibitors
USD 4 BILLION INDUSTRY
OVER 100 PROPERTIES
Over USD 4 billion tourism receipts annually
TTM hosts over 100 exhibitors, including
in Maldives with over 1.4 million tourists
top resorts, hotels, airlines and other key
arrivals.
stakeholders of the tourism.
traveltrademaldives.com
PR EXPOSURE Top event compaines, publishers, location scouts across the globe
TTM 33
HIGHLIGHTS OF TTM 2018
34 TTM
PHENOMENAL SPEAKERS AT THE TTM TRAVEL SUMMIT 2019 Travel Trade Maldives (TTM) opening event,
and strategies at the Summit.
outbound travel market. India’s biggest OTA
Mr. Feizel Samath of TTG Asia will highlight
the TTM Travel Summit, gathers prominent
Professor Hassan Ugail, an esteemed guest
Make My Trip (MMT) Director International
statistics and trends of the Asean Market,
figures in the international tourism industry
for this year’s summit is an expert on
Business, Mr. Manish Mudgal will shed light
namely Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and
on 11th June 2019 at Bandos Maldives
Artificial Intelligence currently working as
on key behaviours and trends of the Indian
the likes.
Resort. The Summit, focused on “Travel
a Director at Bradford University. Professor
outbound market. Mr. Sesh Seshadri, the
The dive market is one of the largest areas
Technology & Analytics,” will help the travel
Ugail’s abundance of knowledge will expose
General Manager and Director of Lonely
in Maldives. Mr. Matt Wenger, the Padi
industry to unleash analytics, dynamic
key elements of AI in the travel & tourism
Planet will share the role of Lonely Planet
Regional Manager for Maldives is expected
pricing, digital and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
industry. In addition to this, Mr. Anshu
and the evolution of an Indian Traveler to
to deliver a presentation in which he will
potential to deliver unstoppable customer
Shrivastava, the Area Director of Sales,
Maldives.
reveal the growth trends & dynamics of the
loyalty and profit.
Southeast Asia of HRS International will
The Summit also focuses on other key
market. Another esteemed guest we have
Minister of Tourism, Honorable Ali Waheed,
express the significance of technology in the
source markets to Maldives. Ms. Julia
for this year’s summit is Mr. Bhavnesh
the chief guest for the event will address the
hospitality industry.
Kaminski, the Purchasing Manager to Sri
Sawhney, the Director of Wednishka,
industry with his opening speech followed
Significant source markets for Maldives
Lanka & Maldives at Dnata is expected to
India’s largest wedding planners who has
by the Managing Director of Maldives
includes China and Italy. Dr. Marcus Lee is
provide a travel analysis of the European
handled some of the biggest weddings of
Marketing and Public Relations Corporation
an expert on ‘China-Ready’ concept who
Market, which is one of the top markets
the world. Mr. Bhavnesh will demonstrate
(MMPRC) Mr. Thoyyib Mohamed, would
will unveil avenues to target the growing
for Maldives. The Editor of the oldest
how to promote Maldives as a wedding
be delivering a presentation on marketing
200 million China outbound market. Mr.
travel trade publication, TTN Middle East,
Destination.
and promotion of Maldives as a destination
Massimo Loquenzi of Master Consulting,
Ms. Rashi Sen will share her opinions and
brand. It is expected to hear the emphasis
the PR firm for Visit Maldives in Italy,
insights to the Middle East Movement to
of Government on tourism industry policies
is expected to deliver a talk on Italy’s
Maldives, especially the Arab Travelers, and
THOYYIB MOHAMED
P R O F. H A S S A N U G A I L
R A J E S H M E H TA
VINODH DHARMARAJAH
LIONNEL MAUGIS
J AY M E H TA
MANAGING DIRECTOR M M P R C
DIRECTOR U N I V E R S I T Y O F B R A D F O R D
HEAD OF ENTERPRISE OOREDOO
COMMERCIAL MANAGER QATAR AIRWAYS
CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER — MACL
PRODUCT MANAGER AXIS ROOMS
B H AV N E S H S AW H N E Y
M AT T W E N G E R
MASSIMO LOQUENZI
F E I Z A L SA M AT H
DR. MARCUS LEE
S AV I G O DA K A N DA
D I R E C T O R W E D N I K S H A
REGIONAL MANAGER PADI
MANAGING DIRECTOR MASTER CONSULTING
CORRESPONDENT SRI LANKA & MALDIVES TTG ASIA
CHAIRMAN ASSOCIATION OF SME BUSINESS OWNERS (ICIF)
SENIOR MARKET MANAGER EXPEDIA GROUP
A N S H U S H R I VA S TAVA
G R A E M E D ' A R C Y RYA N
JULIA KAMINSKI
MANISH MUDGAL
SESH SESHADRI
RASHI SEN
AREA DIRECTOR SALES HRS INTERNATIONAL
HOTELS AREA MANAGER BOOKING.COM
PURCHASING MANAGER DNATA GROUP
REGIONAL DIRECTOR MAKEMYTRIP
GM & DIRECTOR L O N E LY P L A N E T INDIA
EDITOR T R AV E L & TO U R I S M NEWS MIDDLE EAST
TTM
OVER 2000 MEETINGS PRESCHEDULED WITH OVER $1 BILLION WORTH OF CONTRACTS TO BE DISCUSSED AT TTM 2019 Over 2000 prescheduled meetings have
12th and13th of June with snack breaks
already been set to take place at Travel
in between. TTM is the largest travel
Trade Maldives (TTM). TTM Organizers’,
trade show held in the Maldives aimed
Orca Media Group (previously Maldives
as a platform where stakeholders of
Getaways) expects to have over 3000
the industry would meet in one place to
meetings scheduled by the end of the
finalize deals that would define the tourism
month discussing over USD $ 1 billion
industry of Maldives. A major focus of TTM
worth of business contracts. As the main
is to address ways in which demand would
component of TTM that connects the
meet the ever-growing supply planned for
travel
Maldives,
the tourism industry of the country while
using the convenient Connect software,
looking at the future. It is estimated that by
registered users can pre-schedule b2b
the year 2020, Maldives would have over
meetings with the most leading decision
50,000 beds. Over 10 international media
makers in the industry. Over 100 hoteliers
such as TTG Asia, TTN Middle East, Travel
have set meetings with over 200 travel
Daily Media, Excelencias Group and Mice
professionals from across the globe. All
Affairs will attend to cover the whole event.
hoteliers and agents are given the ability to
Maldives Supplier Expo component will
set prescheduled meetings of 20 minutes
host over 50 suppliers and over 100 key
totaling 50 meetings in the span of 2 days
decision makers in the hospitality industry
of Travel Trade Maldives. Meetings are
are expected to visit the event.
trade
community
of
expected to go on from 9 am to 5 pm on
MTCC
35
36 FAIRS
INTERNATIONAL TRADE AND TOURISM FESTIVAL 2019 CONTINUES IN YANGZHOU CITY International Economy, Trade and Tourism
companies, multinationals and individual
Festival was held in Yangzhou City in China
businesses to build business relations and
from 25th of April till the 18th of May. This
agreements.
is the largest international festival held in
The highly developed city attracts over
China in Business, Tourism and Technology.
3100 enterprises and over 45000 talents
The opening and major project signing
to settle down forming clusters each worth
ceremony was held on the 18th of April
over 100 billion yuan. Delegations from
which was attended by the Maldivian
Fortune Global 500 companies, top 100
Ambassador to China, Mr Mohamed Faisal.
domestic private enterprises and high-tech
A total of 55 industrial projects worth
industries attended the ceremony this year.
65.8 billion yuan were signed during the
Yangzhou, a hot tourist destination with
ceremony.
more than 2000 years of history has held
The Festival will carry on till 18th May where
the annual festival for 18 consecutive years
this festival will increase the opportunities
being an important platform for Yangzhou
for new technology businesses, state-owned
economic and trade corporation.
MALDIVES PARTICIPATED AT CHINA’S NO.1 B2B FAIR COTTM 2019 Maldives is showcased colorfully at China’s
experience a bit of the Sunny side of life.
number one B2B Fair, China Outbound
These include calligraphy, where names
Travel & Tourism Market 2019 (COTTM) in
of visitors attending the stand are written
Beijing, China. Entering its 15 th consecutive
in Maldivian language (Dhivehi) unique to
year, COTTM is widely recognized as the
the Maldives. Maldivian traditional snacks
industry’s most important platform and
will be displayed at the stand where visitors
remains the only business-to-business
get to taste authentic Maldivian snacks,
event that focuses solely on the growing
this is one of the most attractive aspects of
outbound tourism market in China. While
the Maldives stand for the visitors. Visitors
China is the main contributing market the
can also experience underwater beauty of
Maldives tourism industry, the Maldives
Maldives through a virtual reality headset.
presence will be showcased at COTTM with
Additionally, visitors can pose for pictures
20 participants from 10 companies at a
near the photo booth placed at the stand,
102sqm stand from 15-17 April 2019.
using frame board and post it on social
During
the
three-day
exhibition,
the
media to win a surprise gift.
Maldivian Ambassador to China, Hon.
In 2018, the Maldives welcomed 283,116
Mohamed Faisal, will represent the Maldives
visitors from China, which represented
delegation along with other government
19.1% of total visitor arrivals to the country
officials from the Maldives Embassy based in
during the year. China has been the
China and the Maldives Marketing & Public
biggest source market for the Maldives for
Relations Corporation and representatives
the past 9 years and will continue to play
from the Maldivian tourism industry. The
an important role in the Maldives travel
delegation will meet with travel industry
industry. Therefore COTTM is the perfect
professionals and discuss potential future
platform to display Maldives vacation
collaborations to further promote Maldives
products to a prime audience
in China. This year, various activities are held at the Maldives stand for the visitors to
FAIRS 37
MALDIVES TAKES PART IN ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET The
Maldives
Public
identified with the Middle East market.
has
Additional activities at the Maldives stand
commenced a four day exhibition at the
include gourmet food tasting of local flavors
Arabian Travel Market (ATM), the leading
of Maldivian snacks. Other highlights
global event for the Middle East inbound
of activities also include experience of
and outbound travel industry for the last 25
Maldives
years. The Maldives delegation is led by the
colorful underwater flora and fauna, swim
Managing Director of MMPRC, Mr. Thoyyib
with whale sharks or the serene sunny
Mohamed. As one of the largest trade fairs
beaches of the Maldives.
taken part by the Maldives, ATM is attended
Maldives will also be holding a press
by 133 representatives from 66 companies
conference on the 2nd of May at 1800hrs,
from the Maldives tourism industry.
at the Oberoi Dubai, Hall B, Al A’amal St.,
The Maldives stand is built in a 209 sqm
Dubai which will be attended by the major
space located at Hall 3 (Sheikh Saeed)
tour operators and top travel trade media.
of Dubai International Convention and
colorful underwater flora and fauna, swim
Exhibition Centre (DICEC) at stand number
with whale sharks or the serene sunny
AS2150. During the four days of ATM,
beaches of the Maldives.
officials will be meeting with industry
Maldives will also be holding a press
professionals to explore means to further
conference on the 2nd of May at 1800hrs,
develop and strengthen the presence of the
at the Oberoi Dubai, Hall B, Al A’amal St.,
Maldives in the Middle East Market.
Dubai which will be attended by the major
The
tour operators and top travel trade media.
Relations
Marketing
Corporation
Maldives
stand
and
(MMPRC)
displays
various
through
virtual
reality,
with
aspects of the destination through colorful images that represent the segments most
M7
38 WELLNESS
CROWN & CHAMPA RESORTS TO OPEN A NEW WELLNESS RESORT
Maldives’ first ever wellness island resort,
The resort is being developed on the
Kagi Maldives is set to be launched by
uninhabited island of Kagi in North Male
Crown & Champa Resorts (CCR). It is
Atoll. The 2.5-hectare island, located
described as a 50-room resort, with 40
about 55 kilometers from the main Velana
water villas and 10 beach villas, giving an
International Airport, was leased for USD
authentic Maldivian experience blended
2.1 million through closed bidding in 2017.
with comfort and style.
Photos reveal that construction of the
Moreover, with an overwater restaurant,
resort is underway. However, the opening
bar, and pool, the resort also gives guests
date is yet to be announced.
a chance to experience an A La Carte
With the addition of this resort, the total
restaurant deep within the vegetation of the
number of properties owned by the CCR
island. Sitting a few meters of the coast of
will rise to 9 resorts all across the Maldives,
the island, the wellness center is the main
with each resort catering to different niches
attraction of the island, offering different
and gaining popularity rapidly.
styles of treatment rooms and an open-air yoga room.
CURISES 39
SUN PRINCESS BY PRINCESS CRUISES ARRIVES TO MALDIVES Sun Princess operated by Princess Cruises
passengers out of which 90% passengers
has arrived to Maldives at 0615 hrs on 24th
are Japanese.
April 2019. Sun Princess was built on 1995
Princess Cruises is a US cruise company
and is owned by Carnival Corporation & Plc
headquartered in Beverly Hills CA. A
and was built by Fincanteri of Monfalcone,
former subsidiary of P&O Princess Cruises
Italy.
(founded 1977), in 2003, the company
The cruise ship is 261 meters and is 32
merged with Carnival Corporation – world’s
meters wide. It has a capability of carrying
largest passenger shipping company. Among
upto 2419 passengers and 924 crew
Princess Cruises assets is the Caribbean
members as per cruisemapper. It consists
private island resort Princess Cays (on
of 14 decks and 1008 cabins.
Bahamas Eleuthera Island’s southern end),
Sun Princess is being handled by Antrac
located approx 80 km (50 ml) Nassau.
Holdings and arrived with over 1600
AIDABELLA BY CARNIVAL SEEN DOCKED IN MALDIVES AIDAbella, a cruise liner operated by AIDA
The cruise ship is being handled by Alliance
Cruises has made its way to Maldives at
Management Services Company Pvt Ltd
0700 hrs on 22nd April 2019. AIDAbella was
(AMSCO) and will be staying in Maldives for
built on 2008 by Meyer Werft of Germany
a day. It will restart its journey on 23rd April
and is owned by Carnival Corporation and
2019 and will end the cruise by docking in
PLC.
Dubai, Port Rashid, UAE on 3rd May 2019.
The cruise ship is 251 meters in length and 32 meters wide. It contains 14 decks, 2025 cabins and can house 587 crew with 2050-2500 passengers in total as per cruisemapper. Currently, the ship is making an 18 day cruise themed Easter with over 2000 passengers, which began on 15th April 2019 and will end on 03rd May 2019.
media & marketing company | www.orcamedia.group
TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY FIYA · PUBLISHED BY MVHOTELS
33
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