May 2020
www.traveltrademaldives.com ttm@traveltrademaldives.com
ISSUE 007 International Travel Trade Periodical of Maldives
AIR TRAVEL POST COVID-19: WHEN CAN MALDIVES AVIATION INDUSTRY BOUNCE BACK?
THAAIF AHMED MOHAMED RASHEED
HEAD OF FINANCE, HERITANCE AARAH
DIRECTOR OF SALES AT ANANTARA DHIGU RESORT, ANANTARA VELI RESORT & NALADHU PRIVATE ISLAND MALDIVES
MOHAMED MAHDY
ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT, ADMINISTRATION AT AITKEN SPENCE HOTELS & RESORT MALDIVES
IN THIS ISSUE : Roadshows & Fairs | Statistics | Government | New Properties | People | Aviation | Awards/Listings/Features | Accommodation | Travel Agents | Tourism Marketer’s Section
12 - 14 SEP 2020
02 FOREWORD & TEAM
PUBLISHER’S NOTE Welcome to the May 2020 issue of “TTM
been postponed to later this year. We
completed in a time frame of 18 months
Periodical”. TTM Periodical is a travel
at Orca Media Group are assessing the
with over 2000, 360° VR panoramic tours
trade publication published by Travel
situation and will announce a confirmed
of more than 150 islands. At Orca Media
Trade Maldives (TTM) - Maldives leading
date soon once the lockdown is over and
Group, we are fully equipped to deliver
international travel trade show.
travel ban is lifted.
this project with a well experienced content creation studio (Dynamyst) and
Encouraged by the massive influx of
In addition to this, on efforts to restore
digital marketing agency (Bee Digital) to
holidaymakers, Maldives set an ambitious
hype to the Maldives tourism industry,
compliment TTM team to successfully
target for 2020: receiving 2 million tourists.
Travel Trade Maldives (TTM) is pleased to
accomplish this project.
That was before COVID-19 pandemic
announce the launch maldivesvirtualtour.
brought the world to a standstill.
com in June 2020, a project that will assist
We at TTM are always grateful for the
Maldives tourism industry to reach new
support of our partners and industry
The crisis has wreaked havoc on the global
heights in destination marketing. Many
stakeholders and we hope to get your
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
economy, and Maldives is no exception.
experts believe that virtual reality will
continued support for TTM Maldives
Nashaath
The lucrative tourism industry is hit hard
help the travel and tourism industry in the
2020 and our new venture, the Maldives
DIRECTOR
where finding the path to recovery maybe
aftermath of the coronavirus outbreak.
Virtual Tour project. Together we will fight
OUR TEAM MANAGING DIRECTOR
Akhmeem Abdul Razzaq
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Dr. Hussain Sunny Umar
Ibrahim Areef
DIRECTOR
Mohamed Khoorsheed
MANAGER
Ahmed Nasir Aminath Yusra Ibrahim
a lot harder.
the pandemic and open our shores to the maldivesvirtualtour.com
will
enable
travelers around the world, hopefully
The much anticipated TTM Maldives
travelers across the globe to take a
soon. Till then please keep in good health.
2020, which was originally scheduled to
breathtaking virtual tour of discovery
Stay safe.
be held from 9th to 11th June has now
through Maldives. This project will be
PHOTOGRAPHY DYNAMYST Mazin Jazlaan
DESIGN DIRECTION CREATIVE TUNA Zuhura Ismail Zaya Ahmed Moothi Hamdhoon W. Asthu Shahindha
MARKETING
Ali Sageef Ibrahim Aminath Suha Mohamed Suma Abdul Rahman
Copyright c 2020 Orca Media Group. All rights reserved throughout the world. Reproduction in any manner is prohibited. Opinions expressed in the articles are of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the editor or publishers. While the editors do their utmost to verify information published they do not accept responsibility for its absolute accuracy. Materials in this publication may not be reproduced, whether in part or in whole, without the consent of Orca Media Group.
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ROADSHOWS & FAIRS 03
STAY SAFE, #VISITMALDIVESLATER
Maldives Marketing and Public Relations
With rising cases of COVID-19, the
around the globe, everyone has been
travelers has commenced a campaign to
Company (MMPRC) together with other
world, as we know it, has come to a
forced to put their travel plans on hold.
advise the holiday makers to stay home,
industry
standstill.
But who says you can’t plan a trip to the
stay safe during this global crisis and to
bucket list destination for the future?
visit the paradise destination later.
the
partners
destination
has
transformed
communication
from
home,
Everyone’s
practicing
working
social
from
distancing,
#VisitMaldives into #VisitMaldivesLater,
staying indoors, basically, taking their
in response to the moment of uncertainty
lives slow. The biggest drawback? With
MMPRC along with other partners in the
faced right now.
the travel bans and flight cancellations
industry, in efforts to lift up hope for the
04 ROADSHOWS & FAIRS
TTM MALDIVES 2020 TO BE POSTPONED AMID COVID-19 PANDEMIC TTM has announced that the TTM
The rapid spread of COVID-19 has led to
Maldives 2020 will be postponed as per
uncertainty in traveling and taking part in
the industry professional’s opinion.
fairs and roadshows all around the globe.
TTM conducted a survey to get industry
While ITB Berlin and ITB India 2020
opinion whether to postpone the TTM
canceled over COVID-19 fears, the
Maldives 2020 amid the COVID-19
Arabian Travel Market event in Dubai was
pandemic.
also postponed to a later date.
As
per
travel
trade
professionals feedback they prefer to have the TTM Maldives 2020 at a later
TTM is the largest international fair
date.
held in the Maldives and will showcase over 100 resorts/hotels & leading 200
TTM informs that they are assessing the
operators from the Top 30 countries to
situation and will announce a confirmed
the Maldives.
date soon.
STATISTICS 05
MALDIVES GUESTHOUSE INDUSTRY TO LOSE NEARLY USD 30 MILLION IN REVENUE well. As per the records from 2019, the
GAM estimates that it will take a minimum
guesthouse owners spend 26% of their
of 6 months for the guesthouse industry
income on electricity, water, utility bills
to be operational again and this will result
and for the TGST and green tax.
in the industry to loose USD 28.9 million. The survey was conducted to collect
They spend 56% of their income on wages
information on the current occupancy,
for their employees and for community
forecast, cancellation, impacts and how
related expenditures. This shows the
GAM could lobby in the situation.
important role guesthouse industry has on the community and the contribution it
GAM informs that they will prepare a
has on government revenues.
detailed report based on the result of survey and submit to all government
Guesthouse
Association
of
Maldives
The survey results revealed that most
With the travel bans in effect from the
related authorities.
(GAM) has revealed that according to the
guesthouses started the business with
major markets to the country like China,
This report will be used to help the related
survey carried out to identify the impact
loans and they spend a large sum on
Italy and the nationwide shutdown of the
authorities on deciding grants, areas to
of COVID-19, the Maldives guesthouse
land leases and rents. In addition to the
guesthouses, the industry has come to a
support etc.
industry will lose nearly USD 30 million
bills incurred, the owners spend their
halt. However, the guesthouses are still
in revenue.
income to pay the employees salaries as
incurring all these costs.
COVID-19 IMPACT TO BE THE WORST IN HISTORY OF MALDIVES TOURISM - AHMED NAZEER Maldives Association of Tourism Industry
Maldives together with the Ministry of
(MATI) Secretary General Ahmed Nazeer
Tourism and the Maldives Association of
has described the COVID-19 impact on
Tourism Industry (MATI) announced the
the Maldives tourism industry to be the
short-term financing solution to support
worst in the industry history.
the tourism sector.
Speaking at a function regarding the
The financing solution allows operational
BML’s short term financing facilities,
resorts and guesthouses to finance up
Nazeer highlighted the importance of
to US$2 million to manage their working
such a financing schemes to the industry
capital requirements, with a repayment
in a crisis like this.
period of 3 years.
“I started in the tourism industry in 1984.
Bank of Maldives CEO and MD, Tim
The COVID-19 pandemic is the worst
Sawyer stated “Although any impact will
impact the industry has faced to date”
depend on the extent and duration of
Nazeer added.
the outbreak, our tourism industry and local businesses are already facing an
The virus declared as a pandemic by WHO
unprecedented set of challenges. As the
is affecting travel industry throughout the
national bank, it is our responsibility to
globe and for a country highly dependent
support these businesses through this
on tourism, it is expected to affect the
period. Together with our partners, the
worst. Rumors about resorts laying off
short-term financing solution announced
scheme is not just for MATI members, it
To apply for the facility, customers
staff numbers and sending employees on
today will help manage working capital
is an opportunity for all establishments
can get in touch with their Relationship
no-pay leaves are currently circulating.
requirements, to cushion the impact.”
operating in the industry,” said Nazeer.
Manager, visit the nearest branch or call
During
the
uncertainty
facing
the Bank’s Contact Centre at 3330200 for
the
outbreak
“About a month ago, BML made a
Nazeer stated that the scheme would
globally, and to mitigate the risks to
proposal to MATI on how the bank
alleviate some of the pressure faced to
the country’s largest industry, Bank of
can assist the members. This financing
the cashflow of the establishments.
coronavirus
(COVID-19)
further details.
06 GOVERNMENT
EUROPEAN UNION PROVIDES EUR 2 MILLION GRANT TO MALDIVES TOURISM SECTOR
The
Government
the
Maldives’
EU Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the
Europe, the European Union is supporting
between the Maldives and the EU,
and
effective
Maldives, H.E Denis Chaibi, said “In these
efforts around the world to tackle the
especially
reaction to the COVID-19 outbreak is
unprecedented times, the EU-Maldives
outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic
times as now. I thank the EU for this
welcomed by the European Union and
collaborative approach is needed more
and mitigate the effects of the crisis.
timely assistance, which would help the
its Member States. This collaborative
than ever: it is only together that we can
This is about improving the preparedness
Maldives in strengthening its health sector
approach, which allowed for the swift and
address this global challenge, which was
and response to the outbreak, and
and assist in the economic recovery
orderly repatriation of European tourists,
unimaginable only a couple of months
about funding research to support the
efforts, in particular, in the tourism
has been appreciated by all.
ago. European solidarity are not empty
development of coronavirus vaccines and
related sectors. We also hope to receive
words: it means working jointly so that the
medication to help those affected.
greater participation from the EU for the
decisive,
of
transparent
during
such
extraordinary
To support the Maldives, the European
health and tourism sectors in the Maldives
Union will provide EUR 1 million to the
can benefit from European funding, and
Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E Abdulla
Covid-19 does not distinguish between
health sector and EUR 2 million to the
that Europeans will be able to come back
Shahid, said “EU’s offer of support is a
borders and it is only through joint efforts,
tourism industry, including the smaller
faster to the Maldives.” In addition to the
clear demonstration of the reinvigorated
we can overcome this pandemic.”
operators and their employees. The
coordination of certain flights back to
bonds of friendship and cooperation
MALDIVES EXTENDS STATE OF PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY The government has announced that they
institutions have been closed for another
have decided to extend the state of public
week as well. This extension was declared
health emergency till 30th April. The state
as the risk of the virus spreading in the
of public health was first declared on 12th
Maldives is still very high and the Director
March by the Director General of Public
General of Public Health had advised
Health.
taking the necessary measures to ensure the safety of the public.
A travel ban has been imposed by the government on March 14th under the
Maldives has reported 19 positive cases
state of a public health emergency. The
of the virus so far with 13 recoveries and
government offices and all educational
no fatalities.
country’s socio-economic recovery plans.
GOVERNMENT 07
TOURIST TESTED NEGATIVE LEAVES MALDIVES WITH GUARANTEED RETURN IN 2021 A
tourist
who
tested
COVID-19
has
left
negative Maldives
for
our fairy-tale took an unfortunate turn
with
that we didn’t expect. But our story will
guaranteed return in year 2021.
continue in 2021, together we will write a new chapter in the #SunnySideOfLife
\The Italian tourist, who developed
with the melody of palms and the songs
symptoms of the flu was also the
of the sea to keep us company. Wishes
youngest to be quarantined at the
from Maldives to Italy�
Vilivaru quarantined facility. Her parents described what they had to go through as
Maldives tourism industry is significantly
an unexpected and unfortunate incident.
affected due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Government has taken border control
Tourism Minister Ali Waheed bid farewell
measures by temporarily suspending
to the family and gifted the family with
all tourist arrivals from China, Italy,
an all inclusive holiday to the family
Bangladesh, Iran, parts of South Korea,
in Maldives for year 2021.A sail boat
Spain, and certain regions of Germany
souvenir was gifted as a representation
and France.
of the offer which read, “The pages of
MALDIVES TEMPORARILY SHUTS DOWN ALL GUESTHOUSES Maldives
implements
a
temporarily
nationwide shutdown of guesthouses for
Maldives has over 600 guesthouses operating nationwide.
14 days due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Speaking at a press conference, Tourism
Guesthouse
Minister Ali Waheed announced that no
(GAM) has started a survey to observe
tourist will be allowed to check-in to any
the
guesthouse or city hotel in the country
guesthouse industry. This survey is said
from 17th March 6pm, local time.
to include current occupancy, forecast,
Health Protection Agency (HPA) has
impact
Association of
of
COVID-19
Maldives on
the
cancellation, impacts and how GAM
Maldives has decreased tremendously.
the Maldives. The government has been
could lobby in this situation.
This
taking several precautionary measures,
previously announced a temporary ban
has
a
major
impact
on
the
guesthouses.
on tourists checking into hotels and
With the travel bans in effect from China,
guesthouses within the greater Male’
Italy, Bangladesh, Iran, parts of South
COVID-19 has been declared as a
(Male’, Villimale’, Hulhumale) area for 14
Korea, Spain, and certain regions of
pandemic by WHO, and there have
days.
Germany and France, tourist arrivals to
been 13 positive cases of COVID-19 in
against the disease including temporarily closing of schools and colleges.
video news network of maldives
08 GOVERNMENT
UNWTO APPOINTS MINISTER ALI WAHEED AS MEMBER OF GLOBAL TOURISM CRISIS COMMUNITY World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)
meeting on 19th March, bringing together
has appointed its South Asia Regional
key UN agencies, the chairs of its Executive
Committee Chair and Tourism Minister
Council and Regional Commissions, and
of Maldives, Ali Waheed as a member in
private sector leaders.
the Global Tourism Crisis Community. Minister Ali Waheed said, “Maldives will
Tourism is the economic sector that
beat Covid-19 with the support from the
has been hardest hit by COVID-19 and
rest of the world and we will welcome you
all participants accepted an invitation
all in a not so far away future.”
from the UNWTO Secretary-General to become part of a Global Tourism Crisis
“We encourage the private sector, the
Committee, formed as UNWTO prepares
international
to launch a global guide for recovery.
community
and
fellow
citizens of the world to help each other, work together in solidarity and stay
The UNWTO-led Committee will hold
positive at these challenging times to
regular
defeat the virus”, he further added.
the need for coordinated and efficient
virtual
meetings,
reflecting
action by the private and public sectors, The
World
Tourism
Organization
(UNWTO) hosted a high-level virtual
governments,
international
financing
institutions, and the United Nations.
ECONOMIC RELIEF PACKAGE TO GRANT EACH RESORT MVR 7.7 MILLION AS LOAN Ministry of Finance has announced that
decrease in interest rates within this
each resort will be given MVR 7.7 million
period.
loan as per the economic relief package
•
Moratorium
of
student
loan
introduced by the government to mitigate
repayments for the National Student
the economic downfall with regard to
Loan
COVID-19 pandemic.
Assistance that allows deferment of
Scheme
and
Educational
monthly repayments for 6 months The government has implemented 7 key stimulus packages to combat the
from March 2020. •
3 months allowance to those who
economic impact of COVID-19 crisis.
loose their jobs due to COVID-19
This includes:
crisis.
• • • •
•
Loans as working capital to help the
Among this, the loans set to give as
businesses and resorts.
working capital to help businesses will be
Exemption of 40% from the electricity
given through Bank of Maldives and SME
bill for months April and May.
Development Finance Corporation.
Exemption of 30% from the water bill for months April and May.
Finance
that
The Ministry stated that this will be given
However, those companies or resorts
Moratorium of loan repayments from
this loan will have a 6% interest rate
by checking the percentage of local shares
that have taken any action against the
Bank of Maldives (BML) and Housing
with a grace period of 6 months. Also,
in the ownership and that priority will be
employees due to the pandemic will not
Development Finance Corporation
businesses do not need to pay back the
given to those resorts who maintain 45%
be eligible for this loan.
that allows deferment of monthly
interest and principal amount in this
local employees or higher.
repayments for 6 months.
period. Businesses can repay the loan in
Moratorium
installments within a period of 3 years.
of
loan
repayments
Ministry
has
revealed
The government has opened applications Furthermore,
the
government
will
take into consideration; the resort or
from SME Development Finance Corporation that allows deferment
Resorts will be given loan through Bank
company’s availability of non-performing
of monthly repayments for 6 months
of Maldives and each resort will can take
assets, 2019 profits, and 3 years cash
from March 2020 along with 4%
maximum MVR 7.71 million.
flow projection (if it is positive).
for loans under the relief plan from 8th March onwards.
GOVERNMENT 09
BANK OF MALDIVES TO OFFER SHORT TERM FINANCING TO RESORTS AND GUESTHOUSES During
the
the
local businesses are already facing an
outbreak
unprecedented set of challenges. As the
globally, and to mitigate the risks to
national bank, it is our responsibility to
the country’s largest industry, Bank of
support these businesses through this
Maldives together with the Ministry of
period. Together with our partners, the
Tourism and the Maldives Association of
short-term financing solution announced
Tourism Industry (MATI) has announced a
today will help manage working capital
short-term financing solution to support
requirements, to cushion the impact.”
coronavirus
uncertainty (COVID-19)
facing
the tourism sector. To apply for the facility, customers The financing solution allows operational
can get in touch with their Relationship
resorts and guesthouses to finance up
Manager, visit the nearest branch or call
to US$2 million to manage their working
the Bank’s Contact Centre at 3330200 for
capital requirements, with a repayment
further details.
period of 3 years. The Bank earlier this week announced its Bank of Maldives CEO and MD, Tim
new unsecured Working Capital financing
Sawyer stated “Although any impact will
to support short-term funding needs to
depend on the extent and duration of
Small-to-Medium businesses.
the outbreak, our tourism industry and
10 GOVERNMENT
NEARLY 1,000 TOURISTS MAROONED IN MALDIVES AMID COVID-19 - TOURISM MINISTER Minister of Tourism Ali Waheed has
Islands are at an average USD 3,000 a
announced that there are nearly 1,000
day,” the Minister said.
tourists marooned across 27 resorts in Maldives due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
While the high end luxury resort rates have
As per the statistics collected by the
fallen, before the COVID-19 pandemic
Ministry by 5th April 2020, there are 938
the five star resorts in Maldives costed
tourists in Maldives.
an average between USD 1,500 and 3,00 daily. The exclusive private islands were
These include 200 tourists who are unable
priced above USD 10,000 a day.
to leave because of the travel restrictions. Tourism Ministry is looking after these
The Maldives government has taken
tourists.
a number of precautionary measures against the rapidly escalating state of
However, the remaining holidaymakers
the global COVID-19 pandemic including
are are high end (super-rich) clients who
the suspension of on arrival visa for
intend to stay in the destination to escape
tourists. With this decision, the tourism
lockdowns back home.
industry has come to a halt resulting in temporary suspensions at several resorts
“The current resorts rates are between
in Maldives.
USD 300 and USD 900 daily. Private
GOVERNMENT SOFTENS TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS FOR RESORTS, SAFARIS no employees show any symptoms of COVID-19 within that period. However, the
resort
management
is
required
to provide evidence of the 14-day
cases, negative or otherwise. •
Resorts and safaris placed under monitoring with suspected cases tested negative.
quarantine period to HPA before allowing staff to leave.
Employees from resorts and safaris bearing a confirmed infection will be
The policy also allows the staff of resorts
required to undergo a 14-day quarantine
and safaris which had been placed under
period in addition to conducting tests
monitoring to leave after the 14-day
before being granted authorization to
quarantine period, if the samples taken
leave.
from the resort or safari tested negative for COVID-19. However, no staff will
Employees at resorts or vessels that fall
be allowed to leave while any individual
under the two remaining categories may
at the resort or safari is presenting any
disembark from the island or vessel
symptoms.
following completion of the mandatory 14-day quarantine, post-departure of
Health Protection Agency (HPA) has
as resorts and vessels approach the end
The policy on entry and exit from
amended the policy on entry and exit from
of their 14-day quarantine period.
resorts places resorts under three main categories:
resorts and safaris, lifting the requirement to seek an exit application from all
The new policy published by HPA
individual staff before allowing them to
states travelling between resorts and
exit the resort or safari. The employees
other islands can be opened 14 days
can now leave the tourist establishment
after the departure of the last tourist if
their final guest. This week, Minister of Tourism Ali Waheed has revealed that there are
• •
Resorts and safaris with confirmed
nearly 1,000 tourists stranded across 27
cases of COVID-19.
resorts in Maldives due to the COVID-19
Resorts and safaris with no suspected
pandemic.
GOVERNMENT
VISA EXEMPTION FOR MALDIVIANS TRAVELLING TO MOROCCO Maldivian nationals travelling to the
longer period or to work or to attend
Kingdom of Morocco will be exempted
an educational institution or conduct
from visa, effective from 13 March 2020.
business in the Kingdom of Morocco, will
The visa exemption allows Maldivians
need to obtain an appropriate visa prior
holding valid Diplomatic, Official and
to travel.
Ordinary passports to enter and stay in the Kingdom of Morocco for a maximum
The Government of Maldives considers
period of thirty (30) days from the day of
the visa exemption to Morocco for
their entry.
Maldivians as a gesture of close and cordial
relations
between
the
two
In accordance with the visa exemption
countries and a testament to the high
Agreement signed between the two
regard accorded to the Maldives by the
countries
Kingdom of Morocco.
on
15
November
2019,
Maldivians intending to stay for a
MALDIVES TEMPORARILY BANS ALL FOREIGN PASSENGER VESSELS In order to contain the COVID-19
COVID-19
pandemic.
These
include
outbreak, Maldives has banned the entry
a temporarily nationwide shutdown of
of all foreign passenger vessels to the
guesthouses.
country. This ban will be effective from 20th March, 12:00am.
Maldives has previously taken border control
measures
by
temporarily
This will prohibit the entry and docking
suspending all tourist arrivals from UK,
of all passenger vessel anywhere in the
Malaysia, China, Italy, Bangladesh, Iran,
Maldives.
parts of South Korea, Spain, and certain regions of Germany and France.
The government has taken a number of precautionary measures against the rapidly escalating state of the global
11
12
GOVERNMENT
MALDIVES TEMPORARILY SUSPENDS ON-ARRIVAL VISA FOR TOURISTS Maldives will be temporarily suspending
at which the disease is spreading. The
on arrival visa for all tourists from 27th
government of Maldives has taken a
March 2020. Addressing the nation, the
number of measures to contain the
President of Maldives Ibrahim Mohamed
disease and to mitigate the negative
Solih announced that this decision has
impact the virus has caused. These
been taken as a precautionary measure to
include a temporarily ban on foreign
curb the spreading of COVID-19 outbreak
passenger vessels and the nationwide
in the country.
shutdown of guesthouses.
In light of COVID-19 outbreak, countries
Maldives has previously taken border
all over the world are putting travel bans
control
and issuing travel advisories. The World
suspending all tourist arrivals from UK,
Health Organization declared COVID-19
Malaysia, China, Italy, Bangladesh, Iran,
a pandemic, with one of the organization’s
parts of South Korea, Spain, and certain
leaders citing the severity and the speed
regions of Germany and France.
measures
by
temporarily
BANK OF MALDIVES TO OFFER SHORT TERM FINANCING TO RESORTS AND GUESTHOUSES During
the
the
local businesses are already facing an
outbreak
unprecedented set of challenges. As the
globally, and to mitigate the risks to
national bank, it is our responsibility to
the country’s largest industry, Bank of
support these businesses through this
Maldives together with the Ministry of
period. Together with our partners, the
Tourism and the Maldives Association of
short-term financing solution announced
Tourism Industry (MATI) has announced a
today will help manage working capital
short-term financing solution to support
requirements, to cushion the impact.”
coronavirus
uncertainty (COVID-19)
facing
the tourism sector. To apply for the facility, customers The financing solution allows operational
can get in touch with their Relationship
resorts and guesthouses to finance up
Manager, visit the nearest branch or call
to US$2 million to manage their working
the Bank’s Contact Centre at 3330200 for
capital requirements, with a repayment
further details.
period of 3 years. The Bank earlier this week announced its Bank of Maldives CEO and MD, Tim
new unsecured Working Capital financing
Sawyer stated “Although any impact will
to support short-term funding needs to
depend on the extent and duration of
Small-to-Medium businesses.
the outbreak, our tourism industry and
GET ALL YOUR SPORTS & RECREATION REQUIREMENTS farish@soneesports.com.mv | T +960 333 5995 | +960 798 3352
NEW PROPERTIES
13
KAGI MALDIVES SPA ISLAND TO OPEN IN SEPTEMBER 2020 Leading local hospitality group Crown &
60-minute speedboat ride from Velana
wellness hub, complete with an open-air,
pool villa or an ocean pool villa, all of
Champa Resorts is to launch the five-star
International Airport. Kagi Maldives is
teardrop-shaped floating yoga pavilion at
which will be distinguished by their unique
Kagi Maldives Spa Island in the Maldives’
said to offer a soulful island experience
its centre. It will also house a state-of-
locations and will house a private pool,
North Male Atoll in September 2020. The
where equilibrium can be found in its
the-art gym, two restaurants, three bars,
a sun deck and an expansive indoor-
boutique 50-villa property will provide
iconic over water spa or in the underwater
a dive centre and a house reef.
outdoor bathroom.
travelers with a 360 degree wellness
paradise. At the heart of the island will
Guests will be able to choose from three
experience, just a 15-minute seaplane or
sit Kagi’s 1500-square-meter spa and
room types, a beach pool villa, lagoon
14
PEOPLE
MOHAMED MAHDY ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT, ADMINISTRATION AT AITKEN SPENCE HOTELS & RESORT MALDIVES
He regards his father as his mentor
ladder, step by step. The tourism industry
in not only his personal life but in his
is a great sector to get into and a great
professional life as well. “My father was
opportunity to expand one’s wings if you
an influential figure when it came to my
are to excel not only in your personal but
successes in life and is a great inspiration
also your professional lives. This industry
towards my professional progress. He
no doubt gave me many wings which
was also strongly behind my adherence
I chose to fly with. It is an industry for
to discipline and embracing strong work
anyone with the courage, attitude and
ethics, so I own a lot to him for remaining
determination needed to reach the top.
behind me every step of the way,” he
However, at a young age, do not focus
added. Mahdy shared his insight with
too much on the position you hold or the
regard to how he foresees the tourism
amount of money you make. Look toward
industry in the Maldives.
a place that will give you opportunities to develop yourself. In my case, I was lucky
When compared with the past and the
to be a part of Aitken Spence Hotels at
present. He stated, “Maldives was a
the early stages where the pathway was
unique and expensive destination during
created for me and I embraced it to the
the very beginning and our supply to
full. And here I am today. I started as a
discerning tourists was at a very low figure,
Trainee Cook with this organization and
where resorts were concerned. There
today, I am a Director at one of the largest
were very few places of accommodation
foreign resort operators in the Maldives.”
and a huge demand existed. Tourists were
Mahdy concluded by saying that he hopes
interested in the island’s natural beauty
to continue to acquire more knowledge
and what we had to offer as an island
and improve himself even more whilst
and we eventually became an expensive
continuing
to
help
the
organization
Mohamed Mahdy, who hails from Meynaa
became Assistant Manager at Bathala
destination. As a matter of fact, today
achieve its short-term objectives and
School in the Maldives and has been with
Island Resort.
there are many tourism establishments
long-term goals and assist in taking the
popping up like mushrooms and the
company to even greater heights. “I am still a learner myself,” he says. “I will go
Aitken Spence Resorts since its inception in 1993. He currently holds the post of
Later he moved to the corporate office
aspect
Assistant Vice President – Administration
in Male’ to work with the Rannalhi
threatened as a result of it.”
at Aitken Spence Hotels & Resort Maldives
Project Team. He also held a position
representing brands of Heritance &
with the Pre-opening Team of Rannalhi
According to Mahdy, his insight towards
for youth where I can share my knowledge
Adaaran Resorts. Mahdy is from Meynaa
as Personnel & Front Office Executive,
understanding
of
and knowhow. I wish to accomplish all
family, which had been named after
and subsequently was assigned the
embracing
sustainability
this and more during this lifetime,” he
Meynaa kaleyfaanu who is also his great
responsibilities of an Operations Analyst
focused on a number of factors.
grandfather and he happened to be one
for Rannalhi & Bathala. Later again he
disclosed that taking into account the
of the most prominent figures in the
moved to corporate office and worked
size of the island nation and the carrying
Mahdy is a past pupil of Meynaa School/N.
country during his era. Meynaa School,
with the project team of Meedhupparu
capacity is something we all need to
Holhudhoo and also attended the Male’
which recently celebrated 75 successful
and after the project he moved to
think about. He added, “Maldives has a
English School and English Preparatory
years of education in the Maldives is also
Meedhupparu in the pre-opening team
sensitive culture and we need to embrace
& Secondary School. After completing
named after Meynaa Kaleyfaanu. The
as Personnel & Front Office Executive for
tourism
not
his Ordinary Level exams, Mahdy joined
school is located at Noonu Holhudhoo.
Meedhupparu. Later he was assigned the
harm our beliefs and rituals in any way.
the School of Hotel & Catering Services,
duties of Assistant Manager for Rannalhi,
I also believe in creating an atmosphere
which today goes as the Faculty of
Mahdy began his career in the hospitality
Operations Manager – Corporate Office,
of tourism that would cater to a niche
Hospitality & Tourism Studies. Here, he
industry in 1991, following his completion
Deputy General Manager & General
rather than opening up to everyone.
completed the one-year General Hotel
of a one-year General Hotel Service
Manager Administration and he played a
When it comes to resort operations and
Services Course where he received the
Course. Right after, he joined Bathala
key role in both Vadoo and Hudhuranfushi
developments,
would
‘Best Runner Up’ and ‘Best Student in
Island Resort as Kitchen Trainee. “This
projects.
always pose as a direct effect to our
Food Production – Practical & Theory’
ecosystem and immediate environment,
awards, before embarking on to an
being my first job, my job description
of
sustainability
is
getting
all the way and hope to achieve a PhD in this field whilst also work as a Lecturer
the
values
significance of
developments
these
that
will
entities
He
acknowledged.
entailed cleaning the kitchen, washing
Clearly, over the course of his career,
so will tend to anyway become affected
illustrious career in the hospitality sector.
pots and pans, peeling potatoes and
his growth is highly commendable and
to some level, so we wouldn’t be able to
He also holds a National Diploma in
onions and cleaning vegetables to name
especially notable, when one gets to know
entirely make it as eco-friendly. So, we
Hotel Catering & Institutional Operations
a few,” he says. Two years later, he joined
how much his loyalty to the company
need to safeguard our islands, its coral
awarded by BCFTCS UK. He also holds
Aitken Spence and has been growing with
remains to this day, having grown in
reefs and the pristine marine life.”
a Bachelor of Philosophy and Master of
the company ever since. His experiences
parallel with the organization itself. When
in the sector, after humble beginnings as
asked on what factors he believes has
Taking into consideration the importance
by the University of Birmingham UK, in
a Kitchen Trainee, later included being in
made him into what he is today, Mahdy
of encouraging young minds to join this
affiliation with the Faculty of Hospitality &
the role of Cook, followed by Accounts
disclosed, “I strongly believe that loyalty,
sector, Mahdy gave youth a piece of
Tourism Studies. He also holds a Masters
Clerk and Receptionist. He expanded
honesty, integrity, commitment, and my
advice. He said, “Start from scratch,
of
his horizons even further and into the
passion for hard work with patience are
where you can grasp the position you
by the Open University of Malaysia, in
management world first by elevating into
the key values that have made me into
hold to the max and the task in hand
affiliation with the Villa College.
a Management Trainee and eventually
who I am today.”
and work on climbing the tourism career
Arts in Hospitality Management awarded
Business
Administration
awarded
PEOPLE 15 3. What are some of your Senior Reservations Officer and Assistant successes? like Receptionist, Reservations Officer,
THAAIF AHMED DIRECTOR OF SALES AT ANANTARA DHIGU RESORT, ANANTARA VELI RESORT & NALADHU PRIVATE ISLAND MALDIVES
Reservations Manager. In 2007, I got
I have experienced a lot of success stories
the opportunity to join Minor Hotels at
in the last 15 years, but one of the biggest
Anantara Maldives. I have been with the
highlights would be setting-up the Central
group for over 12 years and I have grown
Reservations Office for Minor Hotels in
from a Reservations Agent, Reservations
Maldives. I had a challenging task to bring
Supervisor and Reservations Manager.
6 luxury hotels reservation systems under
In 2012, I joined Six Senses Laamu as a
one umbrella. I overcame the operational,
Reservations, Revenue & E-Commerce
technical and system challenges, by
Manager, before re-joining Minor Hotels
working very closely with the hotels and
in 2013, wherein I was given an exciting
understanding their requirements and
opportunity
Central
collaborating with vendors to ensure it
Reservations Office for all Minor hotels
met the team’s requirements. The solution
in the Maldives. I then transitioned to
was successfully implemented, and it is
Cluster
Area
the only Reservations Office in Maldives
Reservations Manager, Area Director of
which is open 24Hrs. I would like to thank
Reservations and eventually to my current
the great team who was behind me on this
role of Director of Sales.
success and I would never achieve that
to
set-up
Reservations
the
Manager,
without their great work and dedication.. It has been a very exciting, inspiring
4. What is your advice for young learned with passion, determination and adults who wish to pursue a career perseverance one can overcome any in this industry? and
challenging
journey,
wherein
I
difficulty. I owe a lot of my professional
Having
growth to the support and empowerment
and determination to succeed is of
bestowed to me by Minor Hotels, which
critical importance. There are lots of
consistently empowered and supported
opportunities within the industry, but
the
right
attitude,
mindset
Meet Thaaif Ahmed, from Addu City,
worked in the industry and spoke very
me in my decisions, recognized and
one needs to be open to embrace and
Hithadhoo who is currently working
fondly of it. It was therefore my dream
appreciated my work and provided me
accept opportunities, even when they
as Director of Sales at Anantara Dhigu
to join the industry. My dream came true
with multiple growth opportunities.
might present themselves as challenges.
Resort, Anantara Veli Resort & Naladhu
when I joined the industry in 2005 right
It’s very important one always look at the
Private Island Maldives. Our team at
after my school. Over the last 15 years,
bigger picture and is passionate about
2. What are some of the Travel Trade Maldives decided to gain I have achieved significant personal and challenges you have faced? some insight into his inspiring story.
1. How did you get started?
professional development and embraced
Joining the industry fresh out of school
several challenges.
with no prior experience was a major
their work in order to achieve professional development.
challenge and there were many more
I was always fascinated with the hospitality
I started my career at Vilu Reef Resort
over the years, but with hard work and
industry, as many of my family members
as an office boy, progressing to positions
dedication I overcame them.
At our resorts in Maldives, you can embark on adventure, both under and above water, cosy up in a romantic embrace, discover local culture, savour delectable cuisine or relax by the sea. Welcome to an escape of absolute bliss.
F
6th Floor, H. Thuniya, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Male’ 20026, Republic of Maldives T: +96 06 640 375-7 E : res.central@adaaran.com.mv www.adaaran.com
16 PEOPLE resorts in the Maldives), he regards this
However, you need to have the patience
accomplishment as his greatest personal
to grow and acquire the relevant skills
achievement.
and knowledge as well as be patient when trying to seek career positions and titles.
When asked about the factors that ensured
As the old school rhyme says, ‘slow and
his longevity in this industry, he put it all
steady wins the race.’ ”
down to the qualities of loyalty, integrity, commitment and patience. Elaborating
Rasheed has gained a great many life
further, Rasheed stated, “I handle one
experiences and has evolved and grown
of the most important and crucial areas
with the Company. As a tip for those who
of the resort’s operations where I have
aspire to embrace a career in hospitality,
to manage and control the operational
Rasheed emphasizes on the importance
angle and work to meet the demands
of being disciplined and adhering to an
of divisional heads, General Managers,
ethical work approach. By leading with
Sector Heads and the aspirations of the
value, one can no doubt win in his or her
Board of Directors and Owners. Being
quest, he assures.
loyal to my workplace and working with
HEAD OF FINANCE, HERITANCE AARAH Mohamed Rasheed, happens to be the
Spence PLC penetrated the Maldivian
first hotelier to have established himself
waters in 1999 with the first of its now
in the Meedhoo Island in the Raa Atoll.
famed ‘Adaaran’ brand of Resorts. As
Today, Rasheed serves as the Head of
chance would have it, Rasheed grabbed
Finance for Heritance Aarah and he has
the opportunity when an opening was
come a long way.
advertised, and he became the first employee to be hired by the hotel chain from the Maldives!
the older son of Moosa Ibrahim, who was a senior magistrate of Meedhoo Island
His
in his day. Educated at the Raa Atoll
rewarded with career opportunities to
Education Centre located in his home
grow and learn, and he in his own pace
island, his commitment to learn and
grew to be an accomplished Bookkeeper
better his opportunities were rewarded
for the resort by 2005. In 2008, he was
early on in his life, as he became one
promoted as Accounts Executive, from
of the first to graduate with O/L results,
which he climbed the corporate ladder
from his island home in 1998.
as Assistant Accountant and Accountant
passion
and
When asked about any particular mentors
my work life is based; and I truly believe
who were instrumental to his growth both,
these qualities have helped me become
personally and professionally, he stated,
the person I am today.”
“I simply cannot highlight one particular person because I have been groomed and
MOHAMED RASHEED
Hailing from Raa Meedhoo, Rasheed is
integrity is the main principle on which
enthusiasm
were
subsequently. With this taste of success, he joined the hospitality industry in 1999 as a Trainee
He has garnered experience with over
Accounts Clerk at Adaaran Club Rannalhi,
two decades of service with and for
blazing a trail for many a youth to follow
Aitken Spence Resorts in the Maldives. In
in his footsteps in the coming years.
those years, he served under three sector
From Meedhoo Island, he was the first to
heads and fifteen General Managers and
venture into this burgeoning industry.
was part of two pre-openings of hotels under the Hotel Company.
Some would call it fate, some pure luck – whatever it may be, Rasheed’s encounter
Having come this far in his career with
with Aitken Spence Hotels was a timely
only his O/L results, he acknowledged
one. While the young boy with big dreams
his success to the opportunities created
in his eyes looked towards new ventures
by the Company. Now, the Head of
and becoming a trendsetter for those back
Finance of the first luxury property in
home, Aitken Spence Hotels, part of the
his own home atoll (Heritance Aarah –
Sri Lankan blue chip conglomerate Aitken
first of the company’s premier brand of
He added that he has witnessed the
mentored by many and I’m so happy to
ups and downs in the careers of many
have selected Aitken Spence Hotels as
a hotelier during his 21 years in the
my career partner. From the COO, to the
industry, and the keys to creating and
MD to the Finance Heads – my path was
living a successful work strategy is through
enriched by their valuable guidance and
loyalty and integrity. “When it comes to
advice. In my personal life, I wish to thank
resorts and property management, we
my father who has always been behind me
handle the assets of shareholders and we
every step of the way and pushed me to
therefore, need to uphold a responsibility
keep going towards achieving my goals.”
to the public as well since we are a public listed company. The clarity of work is a
Adaaran Resorts and Heritance Hotels
responsibility which falls on the finance
and Resorts are part of Aitken Spence
hoteliers’ shoulder. So, while it is a
Hotels, the hospitality arm of leading Sri
challenging role, it is also a professionally
Lankan blue-chip conglomerate, Aitken
rewarding one.”
Spence PLC. The Aitken Spence Hotels portfolio consists of 22 hotels, with ten
When describing his stance on the
hotels in Sri Lanka, seven in Maldives,
commitment
that
four in Oman and one in India. Adaaran
commitment is an important quality
Resorts, which commenced its operations
that should be adopted by everyone, in
in the Maldives in 1993, has an inventory
whatever one does in life. He emphasizes
of 750 rooms. The Company launched its
on the need of doing what one loves
latest property in 2019 with the opening of
and loving what one does. He describes
Heritance Aarah, a premier all-inclusive
himself as someone who is “in it for the
resort in the Raa Atoll.
factor,
he
added
long haul” as his relationship with the company started 21 years back! He is, therefore, committed to the company’s work culture and the company has in turn provided him with the right platform to establish for himself, a fulfilling work environment along with the ability to realize his career goals and grow as an individual. He also added: “Patience is a trait which I believe new hoteliers need to embrace early and nurture continuously. As I look back and compare with the industry’s present conditions, young hoteliers have many opportunities in store for them.
PEOPLE
17
AVANI FARES MALDIVES APPOINTS MARLON ABEYAKOON AS GENERAL MANAGER Thailand-based
hotel
chain
Avani
Avani’s new debut is bringing relaxed
Hotels & Resorts has appointed Marlon
contemporary charm to one of the world’s
Abeyakoon as its new General Manager
dreamiest island destinations. Avani Fares
for debut property in Maldives.
Maldives Resort, Avani’s first property in the Maldives, is set to open in a natural
Marlon has spent almost two decades
playground of soft white sandy beach and
in hospitality with multiple international
every colour of blue imaginable. Go bold
hotel brands in UAE, UK, Sri Lanka, the
with island vibes combined and a fresh
Maldives and Fiji. He started his career
approach to adventure, comfort and
with One&Only in Dubai in 1999 before
leisure.
moving to the UK with glh Hotels and Hilton in 2013 at DoubleTree London as
Scheduled to debut in 2021, the 200-
Hotel Manager.
key Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort is located in the Maldives’ Baa Atoll which
A move to Sri Lanka in 2018 with Reethi
is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that is
Beach Resort as General Manager before
home to unique species of marine, fauna,
his final stop, before joining Avani+, in Fiji
and flora. Marlon Abeyakoon has been
as General Manager with the Sheraton
appointed as General Manager for the
Fiji Resort.
property.
LILY HOTELS PVT LTD APPOINTS IMROZ UDDIN AS GROUP DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING Lily Hotels Pvt Ltd. - Maldives has
luxury
selling,
cultivating
corporate
announced the appointment of Imroz
account relationships and enhancing
Uddin as Group Director Sales and
guest experience.
Marketing to oversee the Maldives – Based Leading Hospitality company’s
Prior to joining Lily Hotels, Imroz held the
their commercial division. In his new
position of Group Director of Sales and
role, Imroz will lead and formulate the
Marketing at MerPerle Hotels & Resorts,
group’s sales and marketing strategies
based in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. During
to maximize profitable revenue globally
the company’s high growth period, he
across
&
established a high performing sales
Communications, Partnership & Loyalty,
culture and oversaw the group’s sales
Digital Marketing, Revenue Management
and marketing function for the existing
and Distribution.
portfolio of 5 properties and 1,500 keys
Group
Sales,
Branding
inventory and new hotels across Vietnam. Educated in Las Vegas, U.S.A and
“We are delighted to welcome Imroz as
Hotel
from
the newest addition to our Executive
the Community College of Southern
Committee of the Lily Hotels family. In
said Mr. Michael Wieser, Chief Executive
confident I will be able to propel the
Nevada, Imroz continues to build an
today’s highly competitive environment,
Officer, Lily Hotels Pvt Ltd.
brand to even more successes and build
impressive career with luxury brands
we believe that Imroz will be an inspiring
including
property-
and results-oriented leader for our group’s
“I look forward to collaborating with my
our guests and stakeholders,” said Imroz
level roles with Marriott International,
sales and marketing function backed by
new team and leading them to a game-
in accepting his new role.
Kempinski, Starwood Hotels and Resorts
our culture’s leadership philosophy, the
changing mind set whilst navigating Lily
& CapitaLand in across 3 different
Red Ring, to live bold and stay sharp.
Beach Maldives Resort and Hideaway
At leisure, Imroz enjoys an early morning
continents Middle East & Africa, Asia
We look forward to more growth and
Beach Resort & Spa to achieve strong,
run, and spending value time with family
Pacific & Europe, where his stints involved
development for our brands with Imroz
profitable benchmarks for the industry
on the weekends. He is also a passionate
leading international delegations, Leisure
at the helm of sales and marketing,”
and disrupting the industry norm. I am
on Gym – workout and a devoted father.
Management
corporate
graduate
and
on Lily Hotels’ vision to create value for
18 PEOPLE
LEGENDARY HOTELIER SOL KERZNER PASSES AWAY transform the tourism industries not only
lake, two Gary Player golf courses, and
of his home country but of Mauritius, The
an entertainment center with an indoor
Maldives, The Bahamas, Dubai and other
6,000-seat arena, which played host to
important international destinations.
a world-class roster of artists including Queen, Frank Sinatra, Liza Minelli, Shirley
Solomon (Sol) Kerzner, one of the world’s
The son of Russian immigrants, Kerzner
most innovative hoteliers, founder of
was born in Johannesburg, South Africa,
the Southern Sun hotel group, Sun
in 1935. The youngest of four and the
International and Kerzner International,
only son, Sol was a working class boy
has died of cancer surrounded by his
from a rough neighbourhood but he
family at the Kerzner family home,
would grow up to become one of the
Leeukoppie Estate, in Cape Town, South
most influential entrepreneurs in South
Africa. Always a maverick, Kerzner was
Africa. Having founded the country’s two
a titan of the hotel and resort industry
largest hotel groups — Southern Sun and
who redefined the scale and scope of
Sun International — Kerzner would go
integrated destination resorts worldwide.
on to achieve international prominence
He was 84.
with groundbreaking resorts that helped
Kerzner’s career in hospitality began
Bassey, as well as huge world title fights,
in 1962 when he decided to leave the
and many other spectacular events. Once
accounting profession and purchased
again, Kerzner defied the naysayers to
The Astra, a small inn in Durban, South
train a best of breed workforce and to
Africa.
transformed
operate Sun City on a totally non-racial
this rundown establishment into one
basis. Even the most cynical of visiting
of the most popular hotels in the area,
overseas journalists had to concede
a success that whetted Sol’s insatiable
defeat in trying to find racism behind the
appetite for innovation and demonstrated
operation of the vast resort.
Kerzner
quickly
a trademark ingenuity that would define his 60-year career.
Sol is survived by his children Andrea, Beverley, Brandon and Chantal and ten
Kerzner’s controversial
most
monumental
achievement
was
and
grandchildren. His eldest son, Howard
the
‘Butch’ Kerzner died in 2006.
creation of Sun City. Here, in an area north of Johannesburg where there were no
Sol Kerzner will be buried at a small,
roads and no infrastructure, Sol imagined
private funeral with only immediate
and delivered the most ambitious resort
family in attendance.
project in all of Africa. Commencing work in 1975, over the next ten years, Kerzner built four hotels, a man-made
RITZ-CARLTON MALDIVES APPOINTS DEANNE GARLING AS DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
where she oversaw the opening of this
has appointed Deanne Garling as its
resort. During her spare time Deanne
new Director of Human Resources.
enjoys scuba diving, tennis, yoga, reading
Deanne, a human resources professional
and traveling.
with over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry has commenced her
Located on the North Atoll of Maldives,
new assignment with The Ritz-Carlton
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives Fari Islands
Maldives on 16th March 2020.
will be part of a lively integrated Marina Village & Resort Destination with world Deanne
class luxury living & recreation facilities.
holds a Diploma in Human Resources
The resort is made up of 4 islands with
Management and Business and began
100 island and overwater villas. There are
her hospitality career in Australia with
5 food and beverage options distributed
various hotels including Radisson on
among the islands. Other than the all-day
Flagstaff Gardens, Melbourne and Stella
dining, guests can enjoy Italian, Chinese
Hospitality Group.
and Japanese teppanyaki specialties.
Originally
from
Australia,
Uniquely design facilities include an Deanne brings with her a wealth of local
experiential Kids Club, Recreation Club
Maldives experience having worked at
and Spa. The Fari Islands is 50 mins away
Gili Lankanfushi for nine years prior to
from Male by speedboat and 10 mins by
most recent role as Director of Human
seaplane.
Resources at Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi
PEOPLE 19
RITZ-CARLTON MALDIVES APPOINTS MAFALDA COSTA TAVARES AS DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
Mafalda has also worked at Four Seasons
has appointed Mafalda Costa Tavares
Hotel Ritz Lisbon, The Conrad Brussels
as Director of Sales and Marketing. With
Hotel and Hyatt Regency, Dubai.
over 13 years’ experience with The RitzCarlton, Mafalda’s first assignment in the
Mafalda’s career achievements include,
company was at The Ritz-Carlton Penha
‘Employee of the Year 2009’ at Penha
Longa Hotel and Golf Resort in Portugal.
Longa
Resort,
She started as guest service officer with
EMEA
Catering
the opening of the Club Lounge and soon
2012’, ‘Leader of the Quarter 2016’
moved to Sales and Marketing.
at Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
‘The
Ritz-Carlton
Achievement
Award
and ‘Marriott International President’s During the 7 years’ journey at Penha
Circle Award 2018’ at Phulay Bay, a
Longa, she was responsible for weddings
Ritz-Carlton Reserve. She is known for
and social events, developed the travel
deeply engaging with both colleagues and
industry
customers, passionate about her job and
department,
launched
the
Outside Catering department as Director
very committed to exceeding results.
of Catering and lastly progressed as Director of Group Sales.
Mafalda graduated with B.B.A. Honors
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives Fari Islands
experiential Kids Club, Recreation Club
degree in Hospitality Management at Les
will be part of a lively integrated Marina
and Spa. The Fari Islands is 50 mins away
In 2014, Mafalda joined the pre-opening
Roches Hotel Management School and is
Village & Resort Destination with world
from Male by speedboat and 10 mins by
team of Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
a Portuguese native. In her leisure time,
class luxury living & recreation facilities.
seaplane.
in Ubud, Bali as Director of Sales, and
she enjoys playing piano, cooking and
The resort is made up of 4 islands with
contributed to its successful launch and
keeping a healthy lifestyle.
100 island and overwater villas. There are
positioning. In 2017, Mafalda once again
5 food and beverage options distributed
embraced a new opportunity, as Director
The resort released a statement saying
among the islands. Other than the all-day
of Sales and Marketing at Phulay Bay, a
Mafalda and her husband Bruno are
dining, guests can enjoy Italian, Chinese
Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Krabi, Thailand.
excited about their move to the Maldives.
and Japanese teppanyaki specialties.
Prior to her commitment to the company,
Located on the North Atoll of Maldives,
Uniquely design facilities include an
DEAR TOURISM INDUSTRY COLLEAGUES, WE ARE PROUD OF YOU! The rapid spread of COVID-19 around the
representatives are present to welcome
globe has thrown the international travel
the the tourists to the sunny side of life.
industry into chaos. The government of
The people handling transfers including
Maldives has taken several preventive
the boat crew, boat captains, flight
measures against the spread of the
attendants are taking care of the guests,
pandemic. Maldives has declared a public
making sure they are welcomed at the
health emergency for for a period of 30
paradise destination.
days from 12th March 2020. The Director General of Public Health, on Saturday
Resort butlers, housekeeping, chefs,
(14th March) has issued an order to halt
waiters and everyone in the industry
the travel of any persons to and from
are going out of their way to serve the
resorts to any residential island within the
tourists to make sure that they have the
Maldives.
best of what Maldives can offer for the holiday makers. Dear Tourism Industry
Despite all this, the tourism industry personnel
are
pulling
it
welcoming
the
guests.
The
together airport
Colleagues, we are proud of you!
20 PEOPLE
NEW EXECUTIVE CHEF TAKES MALDIVES GASTRONOMY TO NEW LEVELS AT AMILLA FUSHI
Amilla Maldives Resort & Residences has
at a Michelin restaurant in Brazil. In 2018,
joined Amilla last year, was the Maldives’
preferences such as keto, low-lectin and
welcomed back to the Maldives Executive
Mickaël reached the regional final of the
longest-serving
at
paleo,” explains Mickaël. Mickaël also
Chef Mickaël Farina; one of the most
San Pellegrino Young Chef contest in
Universal’s Kurumba resort while Mickaël
has ambitions for ‘Feeling Koi’, Amilla’s
talented and energetic young chefs in the
Singapore, and has recently cooked for
was leading the kitchen at Kandolhu in
award-winning
region.
a UNESCO gastronomy charity in Japan
the adjacent atoll at the same time. “The
“We’re unveiling ‘Izakaya’, which is mixed
and worked on multiple ‘four hands
day I was informed about the opening for
type of cuisine that’s usually served in
Since the age of 11, Mickaël, (who hails
dinners’ at some of the top restaurants in
an Executive Chef at Amilla Maldives,
bars accompanied by drinks, rather like
from Provence, France), knew he was
Paris, New Delhi and Colombo.
my heart skipped a beat,” says Mickaël.
Spanish tapas. I’d like ‘Feeling Koi’ to
“I knew it was the job I wanted, and I’m
become known as an ‘Island Isakaya’.
going to become a chef – and even which
General
Manager
signature
restaurant.
culinary school he wanted to go to.
Mickaël, soon to be 30, says: “I started
thrilled that I got it. I guess I wasn’t done
Following training at the Relais & Châteaux
working on a restaurant project back in
with the Maldives…Amilla is definitely
“With our new menu, the idea is to pay
Michelin-star restaurant in Montargis,
my home country last year but quickly
the next big career step I was looking
tribute to Japanese cuisine, but also use
France, he felt the call of international
realised that I belong at a five-star hotel.
for. “Amilla has an amazing set-up and
local products to create some inspirational
adventures. Mickaël become one of the
So after a few months, I started to look
team. It’s a real pleasure to join Jason
new flavours. You’ll be able to recognise
youngest Sous Chef in Sydney at just 20,
for my next challenge”.
and Victoria Kruse here. I’m excited to be
small influences from other countries,
at Amilla for the long-term; building upon
such as the Maldives and France”. The
worked under two Michelin-star French chefs in Perth and became Head Chef by
Coming from a multi-cultural family, he
my culinary reputation and elevating the
Island Izakaya menu will be separated
23 at The Landing restaurant in Wanaka,
always felt at home overseas (Michaël’s
kitchen to even higher levels, step by
into different categories (sakana, sashimi,
New Zealand.
father is Sardinian, his grandmother grew
step. It is going to take time to fulfil all
kushikatsu, konro, yakitori and desserts)
up in Catalan, his great-grandfather was
my goals, I now have enough Maldives
and there will be drinks pairings available
Relishing an even bigger challenge,
Vietnamese and great-grandmother was
experience to know this, but it’s an
for each dish. “We’ll encourage guests
Mickaël then departed for first time to the
a French colonial living in Algeria). “After
extremely exciting prospect. We are
to share dishes, in order to respect the
Maldives to become resort Sous Chef at
various interviews in Turkey, Morocco,
building
already-proven
essence of Izakaya” says Mickaël. It looks
COMO Cocoa Island Maldives (where he
Bali, Thailand and the Seychelles - as
concepts such as sushi and teppanyaki but
like Mickaël and Amilla’s new executive
helped the resort achieve a rating as 6th
well as some trials at a Mauritius Sofitel
we’re also planning on introducing some
team is injecting all kinds of thrilling new
best hotel in the world on TripAdvisor). At
and even for Google in Paris (amongst
new concepts to the Maldives as well”.
concepts and ideas into the avant-garde
25, he transferred to Kandolhu Maldives
other countries), I realized that nothing
Some of the cornerstones of Amilla’s
resort. Expect a host of innovations and
to become Executive Chef, where he led
beats the standards of the hotels in the
new culinary overhaul are the pioneering
world-class concepts to follow over the
a kitchen team of over 40 and created
Maldives, their budgets, team, clientele
Wellness Your Way, Homegrown@Amilla
coming months.
his first Maldives-inspired cookbook/
and top-level set-ups”.
and Homemade@Amilla concepts.
upon
some
photography book, HIHsaaKURUN.
“I’m back in action and embracing my The Maldives was clearly calling Mickaël
“We have big plans for producing
biggest challenge yet” says Mickaël. “My
Mickaël, who describes himself as “born
back. Amilla’s General Manager, Jason
products
homemade
batteries are fully recharged, and I’m
curious”, has visited over 25 resorts in
Kruse, and wife Victoria (the Sustainability
and from our garden) and also for our
looking forward to welcoming back all
the Maldives and more than 50 countries;
Manger), had heard of Mickaël while they
new Wellness Your Way program we’re
our repeat guests as well as new guests
dining at over 100 Michelin restaurants
were all working in previous roles for
developing a lot of plant-based recipes
to share all the new goodies the culinary
as part of his international culinary
the same hotel group - Universal Resorts
and dishes catering to ‘eating lifestyles’ in
team and myself are developing.”.
explorations and taking an apprenticeship
Maldives - a few years ago. Jason, who
our regular menus; for guests with dietary
in-house
(both
PEOPLE
21
BAGLIONI RESORT MALDIVES APPOINTS ZHILAH VEGO AS DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING Baglioni Resort Maldives has appointed
Full Moon Resort and Spa and at Huvafen
Zhilah Vego as its new Director of Sales
Fushi by Per AQUUM.
and Marketing. Prior to her move to Baglioni Resort Maldives, she was most
Baglioni Resort Maldives is located on
recently working as Director of Sales and
the island of Maagau, in the pristine atoll
Marketing at Vakkaru Maldives for over
of Dhaalu, just 40 minutes by seaplane
an year.
from the capital MalĂŠ and consists of 96 villas, surrounded by turquoise waters,
Zhilah has over 15 years of experience
velvety white sand, and tropical nature.
in the hospitality industry. She started
The villas are of different types perfect
her career as an F&B trainee and worked
for every need: from those on the beach
up the leadership ladder. She has also
with a private swimming pool to those on
previously worked with Six Senses Laamu,
stilts with access to the sea up to those
W Retreat and Spa, Sheraton Maldives
dedicated to families.
CONSTANCE MOOFUSHI MALDIVES APPOINTS JOSEPH HENRI ARNULPHY AS GENERAL MANAGER Constance
Hotels
has
January 2015 he joined Constance
announced the appointment of Mr.
Hotels & Resorts at the age of 26, where
Joseph
General
he was Resort Manager of Constance
Manager of Constance Moofushi in the
Tsarabanjina, Madagascar, for 3 years.
Maldives.
He then went to Constance Moofushi
Henri
&
Arnulphy
Resorts as
where he has been Resident Manager Henri has 13 years of professional
for the last year. Henri took up his new
background in the hospitality industry
responsibilities on the 14th of March
with previous experiences and knowledge
2020 in a very challenging time for the
gained in Mauritius at the beginning of
travel and tourism sector, as the world is
his career, followed by Australia, China,
facing the COVID-19 crisis.
UAE, and on board a luxury yacht. In
22 AVIATION
AIR TRAVEL POST COVID-19: WHEN CAN MALDIVES AVIATION INDUSTRY BOUNCE BACK? The devastation that COVID-19 has
A
revealed
carriers for domestic flights to commence
are very much correlated. Local airline
caused on countless industries is still
that though tourist visas are ceased
on 4th May. Their national carrier
managers have revealed that it all
becoming clear. The travel businesses
indefinitely, Maldives should conduct
has announced plans to commence
depends on the authorities as to which
are one of the hardest hits. An estimated
some more outgoing international flights
international flying from June 1 in a
market the destination wants to focus.
96% of the worldwide destinations has
for the expats who are stranded in
phased manner to selected destinations.
been told to stay at home, and avoid
Maldives as well. The confirmation of
The aviation professionals say flights to
“If things do not take a significant turn,
unnecessary trips. That means almost
community spread in the capital city Male’
India and Russia could therefore begin
Maldives aviation can expect to slowly
nobody is flying.
will come worrisome to those expats as it
between months Aug – Sept.
restart in August. This will begin with
local
airline
manager
South East Asian countries with carriers
is a small place and the city is very much Maldives ceased on arrival visa to all
congested.
tourists from 27th March 2020 as a
Other European markets along with
like Sri Lankan Airlines, Chinese carriers,
America are still under lockdown so flights
Cathay Pacific and for Bangkok flights.
the
The national airline Maldivian has been
to countries like Italy, Germany and USA
Based on the other factors, the remaining
spreading of COVID-19 outbreak in the
conducting repatriation flights to bring
is predicted to commence between Dec to
USA and European markets as they are still
country. Previously, the government took
home the stranded Maldivians abroad
Jan. To UK, it will probably be after Feb
hit hard by this pandemic, Maldives can
border control measures including for
due to the pandemic. The airline has
2021 while flights to France and Australia
focus on those markets by December,” an
key markets such as China, Italy, certain
also conducted repatriation flights from
could be in months after October.
international airline manager in Maldives
regions of Germany and France.
Maldives to South Africa, Mauritius
precautionary
measure
to
curb
Airports will need to adapt health The tourism industry has come to a conduct a flight on 21st April to Doha, measures
revealed.
and Thailand. Qatar airways is said to
It is certain that the airline industry
halt with the travel ban imposed by the
which could be the latest international
government. This has ceased international
outgoing passenger flight for few months
To help regain travelers’ trust after the
by
flights
to come.
pandemic abates, the air travel industry
International Air Transport Association
will need to implement new health
(IATA) has revealed that airline passenger
regulations, especially in airports.
revenues are set to plunge by 55%, or
that
ultimately
reduced
the
domestic flights and suspended the aviation industry operations in Maldives.
While local airline professionals predict
throughout the globe is critically affected the
COVID-19
pandemic.
The
US$314 billion in 2020.
aviation to restart in Asian region during Let’s look into how long will it take for
months after August, aviation in Europe
The Minister of Tourism Ali Waheed
Maldives aviation industry to restart.
and globally is expected to reboot after
has announced that Maldives will be
Maldives airline industry will also take
February 2021. Looking into the aviation
promoted as a COVID-19 free nation to
months to weather this storm. However,
predicted timeline for the top 10 markets,
implement ‘Safe Tourism’. This could be
with support by the government and
the earliest possible market to start
a good start for the tourist destination.
the efforts by the airlines operating in
Cancellation of travel restrictions and border closures, especially internationally:
Maldives, the industry has the possibility
flights to can be for China as being the
Airline industry has taken a major hit
epicenter of the pandemic, they are now
Authorities will need to further ensure
to fully bounce back to how it was
because of the travel restrictions and
able to rebounce back. Chinese market
this by depicting strong safety measures
sometime after February 2021. In many
border
airlines
professionals have even revealed revenge
starting
instances,
operate in Maldives right now are the
spending on luxury goods at China which
screening posts. As airport serves as the
adjusted their restrictive measures as the
cargo flights used to transport goods and
in turn is predicted to subsequently
first greeting place to the destination, this
situation has evolved and Maldives could
much needed medical equipment to the
increase the spending on traveling as
will give the travelers reassurance.
follow.
country.
well. Maldives can therefore consider
closures.
Only
few
form
airports
with
health
opening borders to China around August.
Focus on the markets
due to the first confirmed case from the
India, which will be lifting the lockdowns
For a small island nation like Maldives,
capital Male’ city on 15th April.
on 3rd May, have already allowed their
tourism industry and airline industry
All domestic flights have come to halt
destinations
have
already
AVIATION 23
VELANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT WITNESSES OVER 60% DECREASE IN FLIGHT LANDINGS Maldives
Limited
Various travel restrictions put into place
Velana
by countries due to the COVID-19
International Airport has witnessed over
pandemic has put the airline industry
60% decrease in the number of flight
in havoc throughout the globe. This has
landings.
resulted in temporary suspensions of
(MACL)
Airport has
Company
revealed
that
flights by a number of airlines. On 22nd March, the airport welcomed 16 out of the 43 international flights
Maldives has previously taken border
scheduled. However, the total number
control
of domestic flights within Maldives on
suspending all tourist arrivals from UK,
Sunday stood at 25. As part of the on
Malaysia, China, Italy, Bangladesh, Iran,
going efforts to combat the spread of
parts of South Korea, Spain, and certain
COVID-19, MACL has also started a
regions of Germany and France.
measures
by
temporarily
program to disinfect roads and open areas of Velana International Airport.
SRILANKAN AIRLINES TEMPORARILY SUSPENDS FLIGHTS BETWEEN COLOMBO AND MALDIVES
Due to COVID-19 Colombo airport
President
closure, Srilankan Airlines has temporarily
ordered the closure of the Bandaranaike
suspended all its flights operating to/from
International Airport in Katunayake for
Male’ and Gan. This suspension will be
two weeks with effect from 18th March to
effective from 19th to 25th March 2020.
contain the spread COVID-19.
Passengers who are booked to travel
During this restricted period the following
during this period are advised contact
will be permitted:
the following numbers: +960 3333668 /
1. Aircraft Departures with passengers
Gotabaya
Rajapaksa
has
+960 7797673 / +960 7936778 / +960
originating from Colombo and transit
7926778
passengers 2. Emergency Diversions to BIA
According to Sri Lanka Health Authorities announcement, all international Airports
3. Freighter operations and humanitarian flights to BIA
in Sri Lanka are closed for operation
4. Technical landings at BIA
of
5. Inbound ferry flights (without
inward
international
commercial
passenger flights (i.e arrivals) with effect
passengers) at BIA
from 0400hrs on 19 March 2020 (local time in Sri Lanka) until 2359hrs on 25
The travel bans put into place by several
March 2020 (local time in Sri Lanka).
governments
due
to
the
COVID-19
pandemic are affecting a number of While the closure is said to be reviewed by the Sri Lanka Authorities, Sri Lankan
airlines significantly throughout the globe.
24 AVIATION
SINGAPORE AIRLINES GROUNDS MOST OF ITS FLEET AMID TRAVEL RESTRICTION Singapore Airlines Ltd will cut capacity
the SIA Group has faced,” it said in a
by 96 per cent and ground almost all of
statement. The company has drawn on
its fleet, the carrier says, in response to
its credit lines in the last few days to meet
COVID-19 travel restrictions it called the
immediate cash flow requirements and
“greatest challenge” it had ever faced.
is in talks with financial institutions over
The move comes as global travel hub
future funding needs, it added.
Singapore closed borders to travelers and transiting passengers in a bid to stem
Low-cost carrier Scoot will also suspend
spread of the virus.
most of its network, leading to the grounding of 47 of its fleet of 49 aircraft,
Shares of the airline, majority owned by
the airline said. “It is unclear when the
Singapore state investor Temasek, were
SIA Group can begin to resume normal
down nearly 9 per cent on March 23rd,
services, given the uncertainty as to
outstripping a drop of 8 per cent in the
when the stringent border controls will be
benchmark, its biggest fall since October
lifted,” the airline said.
2008. The cuts are in line with those made by The airline industry worldwide is seeking
rival Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd, which
state bail-outs to absorb the shock from
slashed passenger capacity by 96 per
the pandemic, as widespread travel curbs
cent in April and May. Singapore Airlines
have forced many to ground fleets and
said it was looking to shore up liquidity
seek external financial funding, either
2019. The company has engaged the
order thousands of workers on unpaid
and reduce expenses, by asking aircraft
from banks or major shareholders. The
unions in talks on further cost-cutting
leave to keep afloat.
makers to defer deliveries and adopting
airline will focus on protecting jobs, Chief
measures.
“This will result in the grounding of around
salary cuts for management, among
Executive Goh Choon Phong said. The
138 SIA and SilkAir aircraft, out of a total
other steps. Last week, OCBC credit
group had more than 26,500 employees
fleet of 147, amid the greatest challenge
analysts said the airline would need to
in the financial year that ended in March
MANTA AIR TO CONTINUE SEAPLANE OPERATIONS FOR LOCAL TRANSFERS DESPITE SCALING DOWN Manta Air confirms to continue its flights
until the current situation in the Maldives
for the local community with its Seaplane
improves. All its customers who wish to
service, effective from 01 April 2020 to
travel during this period may book tickets
both Dhaalu and Baa Atoll.
via www.mantaair.mv/book or through their reservations team.
Manta Air has decided to continue daily flights using its seaplanes to maintain
In addition to this, Manta Air said they
regular domestic transfer connectivity
will continue to support the on-demand
in these atolls and also for emergency
charter flight requirements for both
flights due to the continued requests from
ATR and twin-otters if there is a specific
the local community.
requirement from its partners at any time during this period.
Given the drastic decline in travel resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic
The
and foreseeable financial impact, the
suspension of all flights to Kooddoo
airline has also made the
decision to
(GKK) airport effective from 29 March
temporarily suspend its fixed scheduled
2020 and flights to Dharavandhoo (DRV)
ATR services to Dhaalu Airport and
and Dhaalu (DDD) airport were reduced
Dharavandhoo Airport from 01 April 2020
from 16th March.
airline
previously
announced
AVIATION 25
INDIA BANS ENTRY OF ALL INTERNATIONAL COMMERCIAL PASSENGER FLIGHTS India’s government has announced that
Meanwhile, the Association of Asia
it will ban all scheduled international
Pacific Airlines (AAPA) said Asian airlines
commercial
from
are facing revenue shortfalls of over 60
landing in the country from March 22
billion dollars this year as a result of
for one week to contain the spread of
sharp falls in demand which have already
COVID-19.
forced the grounding of over half the
passenger
flights
fleet. By the same token, it said, many “No scheduled international commercial
of the one million workers are unable to
passenger flights shall be allowed to land
work because of drastic reductions in
in India from March 22 for one week,”
operations due to COVID-19 pandemic.
said the government in a statement.
According to the Ministry of Health
This comes after the International Air
and Family Welfare, the total number
Transport Association (IATA) said the
of positive cases of COVID-19 in India
global air transport industry could see
stands at 167 (including 25 foreigners),
113 billion dollars of revenue losses for
4 deaths (1 each) in Delhi, Karnataka,
the passenger business in 2020 as novel
Punjab and Maharashtra.
coronavirus snowballs into a public health emergency.
MANTA AIR ANNOUNCES TEMPORARY ROUTE SUSPENSION AND SCHEDULE CHANGES Manta Air has reduced its operations in
to temporarily halt its operations to
different locations across the country and
Koodhoo airport.
has halted its operations to G.A. Koodhoo airport.
The airline reports that after careful consideration of the situation and given
In a recent statement released by the
the foreseeable financial impact, all
local airline, they have announced that
flights to Kooddoo (GKK) airport will be
they have brought temporary changes
temporarily suspended effective from 29
to its flight schedules due to changes in
March 2020 while flights to Dharavandhoo
the demand for its operations amid the
(DRV) and Dhaalu (DDD) airport will be
spread of COVID-19 pandemic in the
reduced with immediate effect.
Maldives. They further highlighted that demand for domestic travel has fallen
The latest information regarding the local
significantly leading to the cancellation
airline’s operations will be available from
of many flights, thus they have decided
their website.
26 AVIATION
COVID-19 COULD BANKRUPT MOST AIRLINES WORLDWIDE BY MAY - AVIATION GROUP
The COVID-19 pandemic could lead most
is to be avoided.” Many airlines have
President Trump peremptorily announced
Ireland and most European countries.
airlines across the world to bankruptcy
probably been driven into technical
the effective cancellation of airline access
CAPA urged national governments to
by May, industry body CAPA (Centre for
bankruptcy already, CAPA said, adding
to most Europeans, he didn’t even advise
create a framework for managing fallout
Aviation) warns.
that cash reserves are running low and
his European government counterparts
from the COVID-19 pandemic now,
forward bookings are “far outweighed”
in advance, let alone consult with them.
rather than waiting to create a basis to
and
by mass cancellations made each time
Other governments have performed little
work from. “Inevitably, once we exit
recommendations issued by countries
a new government’s recommendation
better,” CAPA said. Trump made the
this tunnel — as we will — the world will
pose great economic challenges for
discourages flying.
announcement about the 30-day travel
be a different place; aviation will be no
ban from Europe for foreign nationals
exception,” CAPA said. Failure to do so,
during an Oval Office address last week.
CAPA said, will result in an “unstructured
CAPA
said
travel
restrictions
airlines, and the group urged national governments to coordinate with each
National governments are also sending
other to mitigate the risks. “By the end of
“mixed and frequently quite different”
May-2020, most airlines in the world will
messages, with each nation adopting
Amid the outbreak, the U.S. Centers for
“will reek of nationalism” leaving the
be bankrupt,” CAPA said in a statement.
a solution that appears best for itself
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
airlines that are best-supported by their
“Coordinated government and industry
without consulting neighbors or trading
recommends travelers limit nonessential
governments.
action is needed — now — if catastrophe
partners, CAPA said. “When, for example
travel to China, Iran, the United Kingdom,
and nationalistic outcome” that will
AVIATION 27
TURKISH AIRLINES CANCELS FLIGHTS TO 9 EUROPEAN COUNTRIES
Turkish Airlines has announced that it has
The airline shared that passengers who
suspended routes to nine destinations
have tickets booked to these destinations
across Europe due to COVID-19. Flights
between March 14th April 17th will be
to Germany, France, Spain, Norway,
able to make reservation changes free
Denmark,
of charge if the new flight takes place by
Belgium,
Austria,
Sweden
and Netherlands will be halted until
May 31st.
April 17th. The carrier announced that these measures have been put in place
Additionally, refunds will be issued for
as part of the impact that the spread of
any unused tickets. For any partially
COVID-19 is having.
used tickets, where the trip has not been completed, passengers will be
Turkish Airlines displayed the following
provided with route changes where
statement on its website: “Our flights
possible. Alternatively, they will receive
with Germany, France, Spain, Norway,
refunds for the unused part of the ticket.
Denmark, Belgium, Sweden, Austria and
Furthermore, passengers with canceled
Holland as departure point are suspended
flights can change their tickets for free via
(until) April 17, 2020. You can obtain the
the company’s website, app, sales offices
most up-to-date information regarding
and call centers. They can also consult
your flights from our flight status page
the agency from which they purchased
using your flight number or route.”
the ticket.
SRI LANKA TEMPORARILY SUSPENDS ON-ARRIVAL VISA FOR MALDIVIANS Under
the
new
measures
being
The
country
had
implemented
implemented by Sri Lankan government,
restrictions on the visa policy previously,
effective 15th March 2020, 23:30 hours
from which Maldivians were exempted
Sri Lanka has temporarily suspended visa
from. However, the policy has now been
on arrival for Maldivians. This will not
switched to include Maldivians as well.
apply for the Maldivians traveling with
The Maldivian embassy in the country
official or diplomatic visa and Sri Lankan
has requested locals to register at the
resident visa.
embassy as soon as possible.
QATAR AIRWAYS ANNOUNCES CAPACITY INCREASES London Heathrow and Perth. In addition,
last seven days while 72 per cent of
it’s adding charter service to Europe from
passengers carried on 24 March were
the U.S. and Asia.
nationals flying to their country of origin.
Unlike other airlines, Qatar still serves
“Working with embassies around the
75 destinations, including to the U.S.,
world, the airline has operated one-off
though the airline acknowledges that this
services from destinations such as Phnom
could quickly change as some countries
Penh, Denpasar, Manila and Kuala Lumpur
adopt tighter restrictions. “Figures for the
to Europe. More than 5,000 passengers
last seven days show load factors of over
were flown home by these services over
80 percent for flights to the UK, France
the last week, a number that is expected
While most domestic and international
again, after also announcing some cuts in
and Germany, with a fall to 36 percent for
to more than triple over the next week.
airlines are cutting thousands of flights
the last few days, by adding 10,000 extra
outbound services from those countries,
Qatar Airways is currently operating
from their schedules due to the fallout of
seats back to its network. It’s doing so by
illustrating the demand for homeward
flights to 75 destinations, though this
the COVID-19 pandemic, Qatar Airways
adding extra flights to Paris, Perth and
travel,” a Qatar Airways spokesperson
number may reduce as nations introduce
is taking another route. The airline is
Dublin from its hub in Doha, and by using
said. “Qatar Airways has flown more
tighter restrictions.”
actually stepping up some of its flying
its A380 fleet for flights to Frankfurt,
than 100,000 passengers home in the
28 AVIATION
AIR INDIA CANCELS FLIGHTS BETWEEN MALE’ - BANGALORE, REDUCE FREQUENCY TO TRIVANDRUM Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Air India
every Tuesday and Saturday. Air India has
has canceled its Bangalore operation to
announced several cost-cutting measures
Male’ and reduced Trivandrum frequency
to ensure it remains afloat, as countries
to weekly 2 flights to Male’. This will be
close
effective from 20th March to 30th April
travelers and people cancel travel plans
2020. According to this new schedule,
due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
their
borders
to
international
flights to Trivandrum will be operating
FLYME TO TEMPORARILY CEASE OPERATIONS
Villa Air Flyme has announced that they
The airline stated that in this situation the
will temporarily cease its commercial
safety of their staff and passengers are
flight operations from 29th March.
more important and meantime they will work on further expanding their business.
Flyme reports that due to the suspension
Flyme highlighted that they have surprises
of the on arrival visa for tourists imposed
lined up for passengers scheduled for
by the government to contain the spread
later this year.
of COVID-19 in the country, the number of passengers has decreased.
The airline is operated by Villa Air, a subsidiary company of Villa Group and
So the airline has decided to temporarily
began operations on 1 October 2011,
suspend its commercial flight operations
operating between Velana International
effective 29th March.
Airport, Villa International Airport and Dharavandhoo Domestic Airport serving
However, Flyme stated that the staff
both local and foreign traffic within
and crew will remain in standby to
Maldives.
accommodate and operate flights upon requests.
ITALY TAKES FULL OWNERSHIP OF NATIONAL AIRLINE ALITALIA Italy just took full ownership of its national
from Delta Air Lines in the US to the
airline Alitalia to save it from collapse
Lufthansa Group in Germany expressed
amid the COVID-19 crisis.
interest, with more unlikely buyers also jumping into the mix including UK low-
Despite years of investment from majors
cost carrier EasyJet and a state-owned
airlines such as Air France-KLM and
railway group.
Etihad Airways, the Italian government announced
the
re-nationalization
as
With no private competitor after the
part of an economic stimulus following a
fall of Air Italy in February, the burden
years-long attempt to find a buyer for the
once again falls on the iconic carrier to
struggling airline tasked with connecting
reconnect Italy with the world, especially
Italy with the world. The move came as
once the country escapes the gripes of
potential suitors for the airline ranging
the novel COVID-19.
AVIATION 29
CATHAY PACIFIC TO REDUCE PASSENGER CAPACITY BY 96% IN APRIL AND MAY
Cathay
Pacific
and
Cathay
Dragon
skeleton passenger flight schedule in
to 12 destinations – London (Heathrow),
said: “As Hong Kong’s home airlines,
will reduce capacity by 96% across its
April and May, though the freighter
Los Angeles, Vancouver, Tokyo (Narita),
it is important that we continue to
passenger network in April and May in
capacity remains intact. The ability to
Taipei, New Delhi, Bangkok, Jakarta,
provide important passenger and cargo
light of the severe drop in demand due
maintain even this skeleton schedule
Manila, Ho Chi Minh City, Singapore and
connections to and from the Hong Kong
to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and
will depend on whether more travel
Sydney. Cathay Dragon will operate three
hub. We will therefore endeavor to
multiple government travel restrictions
restrictions are imposed by governments
flights per week to three destinations in
maintain a minimal number of flights to
that form part of the global health
around the world which will further
Beijing, Shanghai (Pudong), and Kuala
and from key destinations in our network
response plan. As previously announced,
dampen
Cathay
Lumpur. Ronald Lam, chief customer
to ensure these vital arteries remain
the airlines intend to operate a bare
Pacific will operate three flights per week
and commercial officer of Cathay Pacific
open.”
passenger
demand.
discover turkey FLY WITH TURKISHAIRLINES
EXPEDITE MALDIVES | PHONE NO: 3009595 | VIBER: 7229595 | EMAIL: SALES@EXPEDITEMALDIVES.COM
30 AWARDS/ LISTINGS / FEATURES
AMILLA MALDIVES RESORT AND RESIDENCES NAMED WORLD’S BEST HONEYMOON HOTEL which is one of the many areas where we
them. Will it be a one-of-a-kind wedding
truly excel. Not to mention the stunning
ceremony in an intimate yet avant-garde
scenery, stylish luxury accommodation,
location - Amilla’s Beach Bubble? This
world-class spa and five-star gastronomy.
venue is set on the beach and transforms
“Amilla is one of the most beautiful
into a transparent wedding chapel with
islands in the world – it’s the ultimate
360-degree views of the island’s stunning
tropical
and
natural beauty. Or maybe they will
we’re delighted to receive international
choose to celebrate their nuptials at an
recognition for it”.
Amilla Residence - the ultimate in privacy
honeymoon
location
-
and discretion. This stylish and spacious Amilla is an island paradise where the
beach house is perfect for celebrations
purest crystalline waters lap sandy shores
of any scale; there’s plenty of room for
as soft as icing sugar. A lush Maldivian
larger wedding parties and high-flyers
retreat cloaked behind a canopy of
can be assured of the utmost privacy.
breadfruit, pandan and coconut trees, and encircled by the magnificent Baa Atoll
As for our honeymoon accommodation,
UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. This
couples take their pick according to their
is an ecosystem so beautiful and precious
vibe: Living out Tarzan and Jane fantasies
it was granted international recognition.
in one of our luxurious Treehouse Villas
The jewel in the crown of this protected
complete with a glass pool, hidden high
reserve:
For many years Amilla Maldives Resort
Amilla’s
&
up in the verdant jungle canopy. Getting
and Residences has been the place for
Kruse, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled
Residences. In the shade of the hibiscus
lost in an endless panorama of blue from
honeymooners in the know, but now
to receive the Best Honeymoon Hotel
blooms and frangipanis, honeymooners
the sundeck of one of our gleaming white
the romantic resort has been crowned
award at the Wedding Travel Awards.
can discover a multitude of quiet spots
Lagoon Water Villas. Or being gently
the world’s Best Honeymoon Hotel,
Our team works extremely hard to create
to linger together before celebrating
lulled to sleep by the sound of the Indian
the secret’s out. The prestigious award
bespoke honeymoon experiences that
their nuptials in an unforgettable tropical
Ocean caressing the shore from one of
was presented by Russia’s ‘Wedding
our guests will never forget. For us, it’s
wedding ceremony.
our dreamy Beach Villas. We design
Magazine’ at its annual Wedding Travel
important to give each guest a highly
Awards Moscow, which took place at the
personalised experience and to exceed
The billowing white canopy of our wedding
down to the smallest personalized detail.
Four Seasons Hotel Moscow on February
their expectations.
altar is set upon the glistening white
The lush island of Amilla Fushi provides
General
Manager,
Jason
28. Amilla’s Director of International
Amilla
Maldives
Resort
the perfect Maldives honeymoons, right
sands. Couples can toast their union with
the canvas for us to paint our guests’
Sales, Nasrulla Adam, and Sales Manager,
“We know honeymooners and couples
chilled champagne at our Sunset Bar as
dreams upon.
Alia Korshykova, accepted the trophy on
marrying on our island want everything
the sky turns golden then retreat to their
behalf of Amilla Maldives Resort at the
to be perfect but don’t want to have to
private cocoon, where a bath brimming
glittering awards ceremony.
worry about organising all the details,
with tropical flowers has been drawn for
ACCOMMODATION
31
VILLA RESORTS TEMPORARILY SHUT DOWN, EXCEPT FOR PARADISE ISLAND RESORT Maldivian resort chain, Villa Hotels and
will not accept any new bookings, except
Resorts has announced that all their
for Paradise, and plans on transferring
resorts will be temporarily shut down,
its existing bookings at other resorts to
except for Paradise Island Resort and
Paradise in the coming days.
Spa. It is reported that the group had to resort Villa Hotels & Resorts is one of the leading
to this decision due to the COVID-19
resort chains in the Maldives managing
pandemic. With the travel ban imposed
five exclusive island resorts which are:
by the government on major markets,
•
Paradise Island Resort
Maldives tourism industry is significantly
•
Sun Island Resort
affected.
•
Royal Island Resort
•
Holiday Island Resort
The Government has taken border control
•
Fun Island Resort
measures by temporarily suspending all tourist arrivals from China, Italy,
Villa group informs that they will close
Bangladesh, Iran, parts of South Korea,
down its other resorts following the
Spain, and certain regions of Germany
departure of its existing guests. They
and France.
natural
in the catch of fish in recent years. If
A PROMISE FOR SUSTAINABLE FISHING AT SIX SENSES LAAMU Laamaseelu Masveriya means ‘Exemplary
can continue to provide memorable
Fishermen’ in the local language of
experiences on healthy reefs for guests,
Dhivehi, and that is exactly who came
while making the credible claim that the
together earlier this month to sign a reef
fish on all menus is caught sustainably.
fishery code of conduct, the first of its
The fishermen receive benefits such as
kind in the Maldives. A group of nine
discounts on fishing gear and equipment
fishermen in Laamu Atoll signed up to the
from the resort on a points-based
sustainable fishing code of conduct at Six
rewards system, while also guaranteeing
Senses Laamu, setting a milestone for
their future livelihoods by safeguarding
sustainable fisheries management in the
reef fish populations.
country.
environment
through
BLUE’s
Charles Clover, Executive Director of Blue
Laamaseelu
will
we fish responsibly then we can help to
The ’Laamaseelu Masveriya’ Program was
Marine Foundation, said, “If we fish in a
inspire other resorts in the Maldives to
sustain the fisheries for generations to
developed by Blue Marine Foundation,
clever way in the Maldives, it is possible to
implement similar measures and increase
come.”
an
Maldives
create reef fisheries that work sustainably
the resiliency of our reefs for the future.”
Underwater Initiative (MUI) based at
for both resorts and fishermen. There
A report assessing the state of Maldivian
Reef fish play a critical role in coral reef
Six Senses Laamu. The code of conduct
is still a long way to go in safeguarding
reef fisheries in 2014 found that the
resilience, which is the ability of coral
sets rules that the fishermen and the
Maldivian fish populations for everyone,
annual catch of reef fish was 29,145
reefs to regenerate after natural and
resort follow to ensure that the entire
but this novel model is an important first
metric tons, just a few tons below the
human-induced
process, from fishing to purchasing, is
step. BLUE hopes that other resorts will
country’s maximum sustainable yield
as coral bleaching2. By signing up to
done
follow to become leaders in fisheries
of 30,000 metric tonnes1. As tourism
the code of conduct and sustainably
management in the Maldives.”
continues to grow and the demand for
managing these reef fish populations,
reef fish follows, the annual catch of reef
Six Senses Laamu and the fishermen of
Megan O’Beirne, Sustainability Manager
fish has likely surpassed this ecologically
Laamu Atoll are taking an important step
at Six Senses Laamu, added, “We hope
safe limit. Saud, one of the local fishermen
towards creating climate resilient reefs in
The code of conduct benefits both the
that the benefits we have seen for the
who signed up to the code of conduct,
the Maldives.
resort and the local fishermen. The resort
resort, the local economy, and the
commented, ¬“I have noticed a decrease
NGO
partner
sustainably.
part
of
Examples
include
avoiding fishing in spawning grounds and releasing all nationally protected species, parrotfish, and juvenile fish.
Masveriya
Program
disturbances,
such
32 ACCOMMODATION I was welcomed to the spacious lobby
Standard Maldives is not just retro and
with open windows. The lobby had huge
energetic, but makes sure that the guests
bean-bag like teal color comfy sofa chairs
eat healthy. The menu at the Todis bar
but what stroked me most was the teal
is a collection of fresh oysters, fried
curtains that looked like a lagoon. It took
chicken sandwiches, and dry aged beef
me a minute to identify the hidden local
burgers and fries to name a few. Todis
language written all over the curtains.
bar certainly is the spot for an indulgent and playful afternoon.
I was then welcomed with – no, not a welcome drink, but with fun popsicles.
Sunset views were best at the Beru Bar
I got the lime flavor which was so
which also houses one of the biggest disco
refreshing. Savored every drop of it! I
ball I have seen in Maldives – that too on
got to stay in a Ocean Beach Villa with a
a glass surface just above the turquoise
private pool towards the beach side. The
waters.
room interior was simple but the neon
TURN YOUR WORLD UPSIDE DOWN AT THE STANDARD, MALDIVES
pink strap around the bedside and the
I got to enjoy a wonderful stay which
pink floaties hanging on the wall gave a
began with refreshing sunrise yoga on
pop of color. Everything was simply white
the spa deck, some good breakfast and
from the snorkeling gear on the wall to
swimming that was followed by some
the cool ukulele at the side table.
relaxing spa time which helped me cool off.
Walking it to the bathroom made me feel like I needed to get my dancing shoes on
Need sometime off the busy hectic
immediately. The all white and spacious
schedule? Then get your swimming
If you want to leave all your worries
platform will surely make you want to
bathroom had a disco ball hanging from
caps on and head off to The Standard,
behind, have some fun and if you’re into
start snorkeling right then and there.
the ceiling. The bathroom dancer in me
Maldives!
art and music, The Standard, Maldives
Music hits you hard before you even land
knew that it was where I needed to be.
is the place to be. When you get off
on the island. The hip chill vibe you get
Even the bath tub was no ordinary one.
the seaplane at the floating jetty, your
even before you step foot on the island
It was a round and huge white tub where
breath is taken away by the beauty of
will surely make your troubles go away
I can relax with some music under the
the water. Little fishes around the floating
and smile.
disco!
Don’t defer that dream vacation. Just go.
HERITANCE AARAH: A SPLURGE WORTHY ALL-INCLUSIVE MALDIVIAN ESCAPE Staying in an overwater ocean villa
gourmet cuisines offered at a stretch of
or beach villa is definitely considered
not just one, but six restaurants (five of
a highlight for resort vacations. With
which are included in the all inclusive
first class services and exquisite dining
package). Ralu and Ranba opened from
options, everything in an all inclusive
7am to 10pm offers the option to dine
luxury offering, Heritance Aarah offers a
in buffet or enjoy simple snacks like
truly Maldivian escape, in style!
sandwiches and burgers to various Italian dishes.
One of the best luxury resorts in the Maldives, the resort consists of wooden
Dinner is best served at either Ginifati;
water villas. With simple yet sophisticated
for seafood lovers, Ambula; to enjoy
interiors, the villas come with a neutral
some contemporary spices and flavors
palette of whites and creams which blend
from Sri Lankan cuisine, or at the Hathaa
well with the tropical destination.
restaurant for a distinctive culinary
taste authentic Middle Eastern and
opportunity to go under the sea to have
journey of either to the streets of
international cuisine throughout the day
their breath taken away by colorful coral
The rooms are designed in a way where
Bangkok, Maldives, Tokyo, Istanbul or
from 7am to 10pm.
and marine life, ride the waves or to bring
guests will get to enjoy the natural
Mumbai city.
out the daring side and go fly boarding Remote and isolated from the busy
surrounding beauty whether it is the view
like a superman above water.
of clear turquoise waters or the amazing
Baani
truly
everyday life, the island is also home to
sunsets by the sea. One highlight of
Mediterranean feel in a café culture
one of the best snorkeling and diving sites
Life is too short not to splurge, so why not
Heritance Aarah is the availability of
style. Guests get the opportunity to
in the archipelago. Guests are offered the
do it at Heritance Aarah?
restaurant
offers
a
ACCOMMODATION 33
HELP SAVE TOURISM; DON’T CANCEL, CHANGE TRAVEL DATES
The shutdown of airlines, border control
UK, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Iran, parts of
measures and travel bans put into place
South Korea, Spain, and certain regions
have led the travel industry throughout
of Germany and France in efforts to
the globe in havoc.
contain the spread of the virus.
The worst hit countries include China and
This have led to thousands of cancellations
Italy, the top markets for the Maldives
in the industry. Travel trade community
tourism industry. This has brought about
is now pleading the holidaymakers not to
the worst impact in the history of Maldives
cancel but to change the dates.
tourism. Maldives, Throughout
the
nation,
over
an
island
nation
highly
600
dependent on tourism needs the support
guesthouses are shutdown temporarily
from its visitors throughout the globe to
and safaris have also been banned due to
combat the loss industry is facing.
the ongoing pandemic. So please do not cancel, change the dates The
government
of
Maldives
have
imposed travel bans from China, Italy,
and come see the paradise destination later! #StaySafeTravelLater
TOURIST PRAISE MALDIVES FOR MEASURES TAKEN AGAINST COVID-19 A tourist has praised the measures
and tourism industry website and they
taken by Maldives amid the COVID-19
have been putting up updates every 10
pandemic.
hours. I like the fact that they have been detailing what the updates can tell which
In a video gone viral on social media, AJ
basically gives me comfort to listen as
Evan who visited Maldives with his son on
they know what they are doing. The
a spring break said that he has not seen
government is working like a well-oiled
any other country prepared for COVID-19
machine”, he added.
as much as the Maldives. He highlighted that the one reason why he He said that he booked the trip to
made the trip was because he was well
Maldives few months ago and COVID-19
informed, and marked that tourists will
happened. He needed information on
appreciate that.
whether to come to Maldives, what’s going on in Maldives, how Maldives
The
government was handling it.
originated in Wuhan, China has swept into
COVID-19
viral
disease
which
at least 114 countries and killed more than “I have been tracking the COVID-19 in
4,000 people is now officially a pandemic,
Maldives through health ministry website
the World Health Organization.
Hawks Hotels advert.pdf 1 2/16/2020 12:29:52 PM
A tropical escape on Kamadhoo island, Baa Atoll
Tropical Biosphere M u n i c h
K a m a d h o o
A luxury hotel close to Velana International Airport and right in front of Hulhumale beach
Hawks Hotels
Tropical Biosphere M u n i c h
K a m a d h o o
For reservations: Mr. Hugo Mendis
E: info@airportbeach.mv
P: +960 7950494
34 ACCOMMODATION
LILY BEACH INTRODUCES NEW VILLA OPTIONS
Lily Beach Resort Maldives have have
For a beach house concept, the spacious
introduced new villa options including
Beach Residence (225M2) includes a
Beach Suites, Beach Suites with Pool and
large bedroom with ensuite bathroom,
a Beach Residence. The resort’s existing
a dining/living room, and a private deck
villa categories include Beach Villa,
with a large swimming pool.
Lagoon Villa, Deluxe Water Villa and Sunset Water Suite.
Located
on
a
private
island
of
Huvahendhoo in South Ari Atoll, Lily Lily Beach informs that these new villas
Beach Resort and Spa is recognized as
all offer luxurious contemporary design
the leading 5-star All-Inclusive resort in
blended with natural materials, artistic
the Maldives and Asia featuring its unique
elements and Maldivian decor. Nestled
and elevated concept of “Affordable
among the lush tropical vegetation, they
Luxury”. With its extensive Platinum
also all provide a private sundeck with a
Plan, the resort continues to reinvent
direct access to the beach.
culinary offerings to stay abreast of trends in dining experiences, beverages
The Beach Suites are a great choice
and presentation. Additionally, the island
for both couples and families, with
enjoys a renowned character for its
interconnected rooms for larger families
pristine beaches, lush tropical vegetation
or families with children. If guests are
and the unspoilt house-reef just few
looking for a romantic getaway, the Beach
meters away from the shore.
Suites with Pool are ideal for couples as they offer a large deck with a swimming pool or a jacuzzi to chill out!
AMILLA MALDIVES LAUNCHES COVID-19 LOCKDOWN WORKOUTS
After Amilla Maldives had to temporarily
Ocean. The guys will guide viewers
pause operations until July due to
through
the Covid-19 pandemic, the Islanders
burpees, russian twists and more.
dynamic
stretching,
lunges,
decided they wanted to find ways to continue to share their beautiful island
It’s known that exercise can help reduce
with the world. So they put their heads
anxiety, strengthen your body and immune
together to come up with various ways
system and improve your mood due to
of doing it, and these exercise videos
the release of the feel-good chemical,
are one of the first of a collection of
endorphin, and the reduction of the
virtual Maldives experiences that will
stress hormone, cortisol. Amilla Maldives
be launched by Amilla over the coming
Resort offers a holistic approach with it’s
months. It’s hoped they’ll offer a bit of
unique Wellness Your Way concept which
escapism and spread some happiness
includes
and positivity to viewers.
fresh from the Mystique Garden, special
organic
homegrown
cuisine
dietary and eating lifestyle cuisine, Amilla is the first resort in the Maldives to
probiotics, yoga, personal training, pro
launch guided online workouts. They will
tennis coaching and massage therapies,
be led by the resort’s resident personal
to name but a few.
trainers and each one will be filmed in
During
these
difficult
times,
a different exotic location around the
Since many people around the world
island. Amilla’s exercise videos can be
are currently experiencing anxiety and
streamed directly from paradise via the
have restricted options for working out,
resort’s YouTube channel and IGTV
Amilla’s vast range of wellness expertise
(Instagram’s longform video channel).
could come in handy in helping people
Amilla
to help people around the world under
The first one will be launched today and
out during these challenging times.
Fushi Maldives Resort and Residences
Covid-19 quarantine restrictions to stay
more will follow each week. So each time
Over the following weeks, Amilla will
has decided to spread a little cheer to
healthy, enhance their mood and give
they log on, people can virtually visit a
showcase guided workouts from the
everyone cooped up at home with the
them a sneak peek of one of the world’s
new location at the resort and practice
chic Water Villas, spacious Residences,
launch of a free series of home exercise
most beautiful private island resorts.
new exercise routines.
contemporary Javvu Gym and more.
videos.
Whether they are previous Amilla guests
Visit Amilla’s YouTube Channel and IGTV
or simply dreaming about travelling to the
The
The aim of creating these weekly guided
Maldives later, Amilla’s workout videos
Shameem and Shamaam, kicks off beside
workout videos - filmed in a variety of
are a virtual ticket to paradise via your
Amilla’s gorgeous freshwater main pool
stunning locations around the island - is
laptop or mobile device.
overlooking dreamy scenes of the Indian
first
video,
led
by
Islanders,
any time to catch up on the latest Amilla home workout.
ACCOMMODATION 35
AMILLA FUSHI MALDIVES RESORT AND RESIDENCES TEMPORARILY PAUSES OPERATIONS Amilla
Fushi
Residences
Maldives is
Resort
temporarily
and
enhanced its sustainability ethos to
ceasing
create an unparalleled conscious luxury
operations – but is preparing to come
experience.
back with a bang on July 1st, 2020!
Your Way – the Maldives’ first truly
They
comprehensive
include
and
fully
Wellness integrated
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the
‘eating lifestyles’ menus, catering to
Maldives restricted entry to visitors
the demands of today’s luxury resort
from several countries to the tropical
guests with delicious customizable keto,
archipelago,
countries
paleo, vegan, probiotic dishes. Jason
advised their citizens not to travel. This
is also overseeing the development
resulted in a large drop in the number of
and celebration of the resort’s proud
arrivals to the Maldives and Amilla Fushi.
Maldivian heritage, recognition of its
As such, the Amilla Islanders has decided
enviable position in the biodiverse Baa
to make the difficult decision to pause
Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve
with landscaping to enhance the naturally
spaces to play, eat, drink and relax in our
operations – but decided to seize the
and enrichment of its highly-personalized,
lush island. However, the Amilla Islanders
4-8 bedroom Residences.
opportunity to shake things up and come
charismatic service.
are keeping the biggest changes under
while
many
back with some thrilling new changes in a few months.
The Islanders would like to thank Amilla’s
wraps for the time being. The temporary suspension will allow
guests,
industry
partners,
suppliers
the Islanders to work on even bigger
In the meantime, any guests currently
and everyone else they are involved
The avant-garde resort has garnered a
and better innovations over the next
staying on the island or coming to stay at a
with from the bottom of their hearts for
reputation over the years for rolling out
few
ground-breaking
maintenance
months.
Other
than
essential
Residence will continue to be treated with
their continued support during these
chic,
Amilla’s signature charismatic service
unprecedented times. They are also
the past six months, under the helm of
minimalist Villas and Residences to
and adjusted hospitality which includes
extremely grateful for the support of their
new General Manager, Jason Kruse,
polish Amilla’s renowned sparkle, they’ll
selected excursions and spa treatments
owners and their willingness to embrace
and
Victoria
be further developing the enticing F&B
for the duration of their stay at their
the thrilling new plans for the future.
Kruse, Amilla has pioneered a plethora
offerings under the leadership of Chef
Island Home. Please contact us directly if
Watch this space for the new Amilla
of ground-breaking new concepts and
Mickaël Farina creating a fresh new look
you like to escape in style with plenty of
brand!
Sustainability
innovations.
Manager,
During
works
on
the
VARU BY ATMOSPHERE SUPPORTS THE GOVERNMENT OF MALDIVES WITH COVID-19 VARU
by
Atmosphere,
the
recently
Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts will be
opened fifth resort of Atmosphere Hotels
contributing
to
the
Government
of
& Resorts, will be used as a location to
Maldives by offering one of the five
station government teams and increase
operating resorts to the Ministry of
nationwide efforts against COVID-19
Tourism. The company wishes to continue
from 23rd March.
to practice their philosophy of ‘The Joy of Giving’ by giving back to the Maldivian
Health and security measures have
community and play their part in helping
been increased by The Maldives Health
to overcome this difficult time.
Protection
agency
to
combat
and
minimize the spread of Novel Coronavirus
All
(COVID-19) within the country.
Atmosphere from now and until further
guests
travelling
to
VARU
by
notice will be relocated to one of the Strict measures have been implemented
Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts sister
for both the travel sector and the local
properties.
population along with new initiatives coming from the Maldives Ministry of Tourism.
36 ACCOMMODATION
VELAA PRIVATE ISLAND LAUNCHES EMPLOYEE RELIEF SCHEME IN THE FACE OF COVID-19 CRISIS
Velaa Private Island has launched a
Employees still involved in the day-to-
special employee relief scheme to help
day operations of the resort will receive
its employees in face of the COVID-19
full basic salary and service charge in
pandemic.
the range of $300-500 depending on the salary. Eligible employees will also
“As we work together to manage through
continue to receive the long service
this
allowance.
challenging
time
with
looming
economic uncertainty, it is reasonable and prudent to assume that this pandemic
All contract staff will be paid their
will affect the Velaa family members in
monthly pay as usual. Velaa also assures
numerous ways. However, unlike other
the third-party and outsourced staff that
corporates in Maldives, Velaa will not
their contracts will not be terminated
let its colleagues down, and in order to
unreasonably.
provide more support for our colleagues in during these tough times, our owner
Velaa Private Island has also been
has committed to a Colleagues Relief
recognized as one of the highest service
Scheme (CRS),” a memo sent to their
charge paying resorts in the Maldives.
employees read. Nested in the collection of islands that The memo further highlighted that the
form the Noonu Atoll, a 45-minute
management understood the difficult
seaplane flight north of Malé, Velaa
situation
their
Private Island is a “beyond luxury”
loved ones are in. Velaa’s Colleagues
hideaway. The resort is comprised of 18
Relief Scheme provides full basic salary
overwater villas, 25 beach villas, houses
plus a fixed allowance of $100-200 for
and 4 four-bedroom residences. Each
employees currently out of the island.
dwelling is serviced by a personal butler,
Eligible employees will continue to receive
ready to accommodate any desire that
a long service allowance, whilst a special
guests might have in mind.
their
colleagues
and
leave category will be assigned to them.
CROWN AND CHAMPA RESORTS TEMPORARILY SUSPENDS OPERATIONS OF ALL ITS PROPERTIES Crown
and
has
in the Republic of the Maldives, owned
be
and operated by various Maldivian and
temporarily suspending operations of
foreign partners. CCR was established in
all its properties from 15th April to 30th
2000 and their current resorts are:
announced
Champa that
the
Resorts group
will
June 2020. •
Hurawalhi Island Resort & Spa
Hurawalhi Maldives, Kudadoo Maldives
employees have been guided by a vision
A statement released by the group said,
•
Komandoo Island Resort & Spa
Private Island by Hurawalhi, Innahura
and with shared values. We wish to
“Our deepest sympathies go to everyone
•
Kudadoo Island Resort & Spa
Maldives Resort, Komandoo Maldives
thank you for your continued support,
affected by the ongoing situation. There
•
Kuredu Island Resort & Spa
and Kuredu Resort Maldives will be
understanding during these difficult times.
is no overstating the far-reaching effects
•
Meeru Island Resort & Spa
suspending operations from April 15 to
It is with this trust that our collection will
that this crisis has on individuals,
•
Veligandu Island Resort & Spa
June 30.
continue to serve guest for the next forty
families, businesses and countries. We
•
Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa
wish to thank everyone who promptly and
•
Innahura Maldives Resort
The group had previously announced the
effectively responded to the situation,
•
Champa Central Hotel
launch of its five-star Kagi Maldives Spa
and who are continuing to do so as the situation evolves.”
Veligandu
Island
Resort
&
Spa,
years and beyond,” the announcement read.
Island in the Maldives’ North Male Atoll
COVID-19 pandemic has also led to the
in September 2020.
temporary suspension of properties of
Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa, and
two other leading hotel groups in the
Crown & Champa Resorts, “CCR” is a
Meeru Island Resort & Spa will be closed
“Over the last forty years, our resort
Maldives; Universal Resorts and Villa
trading name for a group of resort hotels
from April 1 to June 30.
collection, its owners, partners and
Hotels.
ACCOMMODATION 37
SEASIDE FINOLHU KICK STARTS EXCITING TRANSFORMATION PROJECT Maldives’ luxury island resort, Seaside
with our vision to be a design-driven resort
resort’s new concept, “Our new design
In line with the resort upgrades, Finolhu
Finolhu, today announced its temporary
that appeals to international high-end
direction focuses on the lens of the
will also introduce the new names and
closure to bring forward its anticipated
affluent travellers. We’re excited to see
“Kaleidoscope”; the changing colours,
concepts for its four restaurants and spa.
transformation project starting from 25
the anticipated innovative developments
patterns
representing
Operated by the German luxury hotel
March 2020. The resort is set to complete
during the first half of the year.”
moments of discovery, wonder and
chain, Seaside Collection, the resort’s
delight”. Throughout the resort, vibrant
new developments in design, architecture
Finolhu recently earned it place as the
pops of colour are incorporated and
and branding are set to align with the
first and only resort in the Maldives
distinct areas are assigned to a unique
Seaside Collections’ brand introducing
This keenly anticipated transformation
to
colour spectrum.
Finolhu as a new market leader in the
will cover guest villas, restaurants, public
prestigious international portfolio. The
areas and a state-of-the-art indoor
transformation is a key milestone for
Further
golf studio. Aiming to modernise the
the resort as it successfully meets the
improvements, Muza Lab’s co-founder
Further
property and its facilities, Finolhu will
Design Hotels’ criteria of embodying
Inge Moore explained: “This playful
transformation
be developing a distinctive barefoot chic
quality, style, and holistic hospitality
alternation
Seaside Finolhu’s official Facebook page
atmosphere that combines Maldivian-
concepts. With award-winning London-
and colours is what guests will now
(facebook.com/FinolhuMaldives).
inspired
based design studio Muza Lab in charge
experience when they visit Finolhu.
resort also encourages its valued guests
of the resort’s redesign, Finolhu’s new
They will be surprised and will marvel
to continue sharing their memorable
look will embody a mesmerising mélange
at what they see. Artisans from all over
#SeasideFinolhu stories on social media.
Marc Reader, Seaside Finolhu’s General
of colours and symmetrical patterns that
the world have created special works
Translated as “sandbank”, Finolhu is one
Manager
and
complement the luxury island resort’s
for the resort. Artistic tiles from Turkey,
of the finest island resorts located in the
cordiality as hosts is to bring the finest
pristine natural beauty in a stunning
chandeliers and wickerwork from South
UNESCO-protected Baa Atoll, comprising
guest experience. We see the importance
representation of joy, wonder and a
Africa and wooden craftwork from Java
of 125 stylish beach and overwater
of offering spaces that make people
feeling of escaping time.
transform the villas, bars & restaurants,
villas, four beachside restaurants, fully-
the fitness room and, last but not least,
equipped spa and wellness facilities, and
the Oceaneers kids club into an exotic
the first Beach Bubble in the Maldives.
its major upgrade and welcome its guests in July 2020.
touches
with
ultra-luxury
modernity.
says:
“Our
passion
be
included
in
Design
Hotels’
feel elegant and cherished, along with providing exceptional hospitality. This
Muza
transformation project is perfectly in line
Hutchins shared their vision of the
Lab’s
co-founder
Nathan
and
textures
Maldives. elaborating
playground.”
of
the
patterns,
planned
geometry
updates will
on be
the
resort’s
posted
on The
38 ACCOMMODATION
SIX SENSES LAAMU TAKES ITS JUNIOR MARINE BIOLOGY PROGRAM ONLINE hashtags. These masterpieces by the
water snorkel. His curiosity inspired the
students will also be published on Six
team to create the program for all like-
Senses media channels and highlighted in
minded marine enthusiasts. Sessions are
the weekly videos.
led by one of 10 biologists, each of whom specializes in different aspects of marine
Over the next 10 weeks, students can
science
learn about manta rays, corals, turtles
as part of their work with the Maldives
and reef fish. Students can explore
Underwater Initiative (MUI). Over the past
seagrass and mangroves and how they are
year, Six Senses Laamu has run hundreds
vital habitats for a diversity of marine life.
of hours of private sessions and certified
Broader topics cover science research,
dozens of junior marine biologists.
and
science
communication
sustainability and how to share passion for science.
MUI is an initiative by Six Senses Laamu in partnership with three NGOs: Blue
Starting Monday April 13, Six Senses
he resort announced in a statement, “We
Although the structure, by necessity, is
Marine Foundation, the Manta Trust and
Laamu is introducing a new type of
are expecting some very special events
slightly different to what children might
the Olive Ridley Project. The mission
home school program where turtles
over the next few weeks on the island,
enjoy on vacation in the Maldives, the
is to lead the tourism industry in the
are teachers and reef fish can be made
including turtle hatching in May, which
objective is the same. It aims to help
Maldives
out of egg cartons and bottle tops! The
we will do our best to bring to you.”
foster an understanding of marine biology
marine conservation focused around
and see first-hand the importance of
the three pillars of research, education
conserving oceans.
and community. One of the team’s
resort is taking their program online with #AtHomeWithSixSenses Junior Marine
“Don’t worry if you’re quarantined in a
Biology Program.
city apartment without views of dolphins
by
undertaking
meaningful
many pioneering projects includes an
from your balcony: all activities take
Six Senses Laamu further added that
underwater
Junior
into account the restrictions we have at
they will also be sharing ways for people
scanner for Laamu’s resident population
Marine Biology Program is a fun 10-week
home during this time. All you will need
to get involved in various conservation
of pregnant manta rays in order to study
course for budding conservationists,
is enthusiasm and a little creativity to
initiatives because every action, no matter
gestation and embryonic development
inspired by the initiative that usually runs
upcycle and rediscover a few unwanted
how small, can have a positive impact.
and guide conservation strategies. MUI
at Six Senses Laamu. Each week, the
items lying around at home to achieve an
resort’s marine biologists on the island
A Grade.”
The Junior Marine Biology program,
for Wildlife and Nature Conservation’
will host short videos and demonstrate
Students will be encouraged to share
which launched a year ago, was initially
Award for its #ProtectMaldivesSeagrass
activities that students can then try at
their “homework” by email to marine-
inspired by a young guest at Six Senses
campaign at the World Travel Market’s
home. The course is open to everyone
laamu@sixsenses.com and on social
Laamu. Unable to join his parents on dive
Responsible Tourism Awards.
and there will be content available and
media using the #AtHomeWithSixSenses
trips, he ventured out with one of the
suitable for all ages.
#GrowWithSixSenses #SixSensesLaamu
resort’s marine biologists on a shallow-
The
#AtHomeWithSixSenses
contactless
ultrasound
was also recently honored with the ‘Best
TEMPORARY SHUTDOWN OF TOURISM INDUSTRY: RESORTS BID FAREWELL TO LAST GUESTS With the travel ban implemented by
Hotels shared a video with caption,
the government, resorts in Maldives are
“Our last guest departure for now. We
temporarily shutting down. Hurawalhi
will be back even stronger; for now, the
Maldives and LUX* South Resort have bid
focus is looking after each other and
farewell to their last remaining guests.
stay focus and cautious on the future. #luxsouthariatoll
Hurawalhi Maldives will be suspending operations till June 30. The resort bid
Tourism industry has come to a halt
farewell to its last guest with their team
because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
jumping into the sea.
Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) Secretary General Ahmed Nazeer
LUX* South Maldives also said farewell to
has described the COVID-19 impact on
their last guests. Afeef Hussain, Regional
the Maldives tourism industry to be the
Director of Training, Development and
worst in the industry history.
Quality Assurance at LUX* Resorts and
ACCOMMODATION 39
COVID-19 CONFINEMENT: TIME FOR MALDIVES TO EXPLORE VIRTUAL TOURS? COVID-19
pandemic
has
grounded
Consequently, travelers are temporarily
it will surely bring some amount of joy to
scenery from places they want to visit and
flights, caused travel bans all over the
stranded at home but not disconnected
the people stuck at home, giving them an
explore the bucket list destinations from
world and brought about lockdowns
from the world thanks to technology. So
escape from the uncertainty everyone is
the comfort of their couch. While experts
which has led everyone to stay confined
why not bring the beach to them? With
facing today. Virtual tours are popular with
are already predicting revenge travel once
at home. Efforts to contain the virus has
no end to the lockdown in sight, Maldives
travelers pretty much anywhere. Tours of
the situation subsides, who knows? The
crippled the tourism industry. Maldives is
can continue to give holidaymakers a
distant lands, from historic museums to
virtual tours of your resort or hotel may
highly dependent on tourism but experts
piece of the paradise destination through
white sandy beaches and crystal clear
lead many an interested traveler to book
are forecasting it will see the biggest
virtual tours. Obviously, it will not be
waters, and beyond. Through them,
Maldives as their next destination once
blow to the industry in its entire history.
anything equivalent to the real thing but
travelers can get to enjoy eye-popping
the pandemic is over!
SHUTDOWN OF TOURISM INDUSTRY: A STEP BACK TO REJUVENATE ENVIRONMENT? President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has
As the Maldives is very much dependent
announced a temporary suspension of
on the environment, we can take this
on arrival visa for tourists. With this
time to rejuvenate our environment. This
decision, the tourism industry has come
would be a good opportunity for our
to a halt. This halt could be the right time
marine life to regrow and our islands to
for us to rejuvenate our environment.
become greener.
Everyday, our coral reefs are exposed
This
to sunscreens and many other chemicals
sustainability of marine life but also will
and oils. The damage this could do to the
help the economy, as when the suspension
environment could be small in the short-
on visa lifts tourists can enjoy a much
term, however, the long-term effects of
healthier and greener environment.
would
not
only
increase
the
this could affect the sustainability of the reefs.
Even though this suspension is expected to cause losses to the industry and
Simultaneously, the travel restrictions
economy, it will give a very much needed
imposed are expected to reduce air
break to our environment.
pollution and will save the sea from getting polluted by oil and gas.
40 ACCOMMODATION
ANGIRI RESORTS GIVES TWO MONTH PAID LEAVE TO EMPLOYEES AMID COVID-19 CRISIS Happy Market has announced that its
resorts with paid leave. This is applicable
resorts operated by Angiri Resorts will
for both local and foreign staff.”
be giving two-month paid leave for all its employees under the brand’s four resorts
The group informs that the paid leave is
in the Maldives.
effective from 4th April for two months and encouraged their staff to spend
The four resorts under the group are
quality time with family at their homes
Thulhagiri Island Resort, Angaga Island
during this difficult time.
Resort & Spa, Dreamland The Unique Sea & Lake Resort & Spa and Safari Island
The government has taken a number
Resort.
of precautionary measures against the rapidly escalating state of the global
Speaking to the local media, an official
COVID-19
from the company said, “This is a difficult
suspension of on arrival visa for tourists.
time for everyone. However we want to
With this decision, the tourism industry
give a paid leave for our staff which is why
has come to a halt.
pandemic
we are temporarily shutting down our four
STANDARD STANDS TOGETHER, LIGHTS UP IN HEART SHAPE TO LIFT SPIRITS AMID COVID-19 CRISIS The global hospitality community has
an engineering marvel of a giant heart
never seen anything like what has occurred
across the façade of their iconic property
over the past week. The mandated shut
walls.
downs and social distancing has forced many to close their doors.
The Standard has also announced The Standard Stands Together Relief Fund,
Workers
in
hotels,
restaurants
and
seeded by the leadership team at The
bars around the world facing the same
Standard who are now opening it to their
circumstances, some 266 million globally.
extended Standard family to help reach
To lift up the spirits of communities that
their goal. 100% of the proceeds will be
have been affected by COVID-19, The
used for the benefit and support of team
Standard hotels that operate in New York,
members who have lost jobs due to the
Miami, Los Angeles, London and the
effect of COVID-19 and are struggling to
Maldives have lit up their neighborhoods
maintain basic human needs including
in New York (The Standard, High Line)
health care, medicine, groceries, diapers,
and London (The Standard, London), with
and shelter.
HRS_19-707_TTM_AD_02_PATHED.pdf
1
15/4/19
14:58
including
the
ACCOMMODATION
41
CROWN & CHAMPA RESORTS CEO THANKS ITS COMMUNITY, ASSURES FAST TRACK RESORT RENOVATIONS Crown & Champa Resorts CEO, Martin
for travel plans disrupted guests and
Vossen in a publicized message, sent
for those who need to rebook for future
heartfelt thanks for the support received
dates, adding that the group’s booking
in these uncertain times and assures
policies are flexible now.
fast track resort renovations during the current suspension of its properties due
“Whilst we cannot predict the time when
to the COVID-19 pandemic.
travelling to the Maldives will be more than a dream; it is with individuals working
He further highlighted to be on the
together and following the guidelines
lookout for exciting new additions, soft
of World Health Organization (WHO),
and interesting structural updates which
directives of the Maldives government
they will be sharing online through their
and Maldives Health Protection Agency
social media channels. He said that this
(HPA), that we are confident we will be
suspension period is providing time off to
ready when you are to welcome you back
their team who greatly deserve the rest
to the Maldives soon,” the message read.
and recuperation.
Crown and Champa Resorts temporarily suspended their operations of all its
Vossen also directed its holidaymakers
properties from 15th April to 30th June
to a guidance and information portal
2020.
WALDORF ASTORIA MALDIVES ITHAAFUSHI REMAINS OPEN, GIVES FULL SALARY TO EMPLOYEES DESPITE CRISIS Waldorf
Astoria
Maldives
Ithaafushi
International Airport via the resort’s
has announced that the resort remains
private yacht. The resort features 122
open to welcome guest once they are
villas, each compromising of a pool and a
ready to travel and gives full salary to its
view of the Indian Ocean. The highlights
employees despite the situation.
of the resort include the two-bedroom overwater villa and three-bedroom beach
The statement by the resort read, “After
villa for those seeking exclusivity and
careful consideration and discussion with
the 11 dining venues and bars including
the resorts’ ownership and with Hilton
Terra, an elevated treetop restaurant,
Brand, the resort will remain operational
and The Ledge by Dave Pynt.
to welcome guest once they are ready to travel. The resort is aiming to work on
Etienne
Dalancon,
a few projects and will remain available
Maldives Ithaafushi General Manager
to welcome back guests as soon as the
said, “During these difficult times, we
directive from the Republic of Maldives
are pleased to inform you that there
government changes and the borders,
will be no salary deduction despite the
ideas for how we can be even better in
global COVID-19 pandemic including the
open up again.”
situation.
providing unforgettable experiences to
suspension of on arrival visa for tourists.
our guests.”
With this decision, the tourism industry
Waldorf
Waldorf
Astoria
Astoria
Maldives
Ithaafushi is committed to respecting its Located at Ithaafushi island, Waldorf
values and will continue to support you,
Astoria is part of the Hilton portfolio.
our community and our guests. This is
The Maldives government has taken
The villa resort spans over three islands
a great time for us to evaluate our work
a number of precautionary measures
and is 30 minutes away from Velana
efficiencies and come up with creative
against the rapidly escalating state of the
has come to a halt.
42 ACCOMMODATION
UNIVERSAL RESORTS TEMPORARILY SHUTS DOWN DUE TO COVID-19 OUTBREAK
Universal Resorts has announced plans to
to assess the situation and return to our
Maldives that has led the development
Maldives, Baros Maldives, Kandolhu
temporarily shutdown all its resorts, due
normal operations at the earliest,” the
of the travel and tourism industry in the
Maldives, Dhigali Maldives, Milaidhoo
to the COVID-19 outbreak. In a statement,
statement read. “Our primary business
Maldives for over 46 years, playing a key
Island Maldives and Faarufushi Maldives.
parent company Universal Enterprises
is hospitality. … We are amongst the
part in the transformation of the country
Villa Hotels, another leading local resort
said all of its resorts will be closed for
Maldivian companies worst hit by the
from an island nation to one of the most
operator in Maldives also suspended the
three months from April. However, the
global economic downturn. However,
sought-after travel destinations in the
operations of three of its four resorts few
group reports that resort employees
we are working to find ways to run our
world. The group now operates one of the
days ago.
will be given paid leave for the three-
operations at some level and ensure
largest resort collections in the country,
month period. “We expect to review this
that no employee is laid off.” Universal
including properties such as Kurumba
decision once every month, with a view
Resorts is a leading resort group in the
Maldives, Velassaru Maldives, Kuramathi
TRAVEL AGENTS 43
TRAVEL GIANT TUI SUSPENDS MAJORITY OF ITS TRAVEL OPERATIONS
we have decided to apply for state aid
‘European aviation faces a precarious
guarantees to support the business until
future and it is clear that coordinated
normal operations are resumed.’ IAG,
government backing will be required to
the owner of BA, said it would cut its
ensure the industry survives and is able
flying capacity by at least three-quarters
to continue to operate when the crisis is
in April and May and its outgoing boss
over,’ Lundgren said in a statement today.
Willie Walsh would defer his retirement.
Speaking today, Transport Secretary
The airline group, however, did not call
Grant Shapps said there are ‘lots of
for government help.
different options’ to help the aviation industry through the coronavirus crisis.
German operator TUI today announced
He told Sky News: ‘We want to make
it would be slashing three-quarters of its
sure that companies and individuals
routes. EasyJet said it could ground the
and organisations who are in a good
majority of its fleet on a rolling basis, and
state – not those that are going to fail
its chief executive Johan Lundgren called
anyway – are able to continue. ‘So, we’ll
for coordinated government backing to
be looking at all of these measures, I’ll
help the aviation industry survive. Both
be discussing it with the Chancellor and
airlines said they had strong balance
the Prime Minister later today, and those
sheets, providing details on their cash
discussions with the sector are ongoing.’
positions and credit facilities. Asked if a bailout of airlines was on the IAG, which also owns Iberia and Aer
table, Mr Shapps said: ‘There are lots
Lingus, said it had total liquidity of 9.3
of different options here – including
billion euros, while EasyJet said it had 1.6
some other things that people have been
billion pounds of cash plus an undrawn
looking for, for example HMRC offer a ‘time to pay’.’
Tour operator TUI today (16th March)
ground the majority of its fleet on rolling
$500 million revolving credit facility.
announced it was suspending most of its
basis.
While IAG’s Walsh has long-opposed any
operations until further notice due to the
government help for aviation businesses,
COVID-19 pandemic as British Airways
The German company said: ‘We are
and said as recently as two weeks ago that
owners said it would slash routes by 75%
taking substantial cost measures to
government’s should not prop up airlines,
while EasyJet announced that it could
mitigate the earnings effect. Moreover,
EasyJet’s Lundgren called for help.
ADDICTED TO MALDIVES LAUNCHES NEW TRAVEL INITIATIVE TO HELP KEEP TRAVELERS’ DREAMS ALIVE In a sector hard hit by the COVID-19 crisis,
survival,” she explained. “As tourism
the team behind luxury travel concierge
operators in the region, we feel it is our
group, Addicted to Maldives, is breathing
duty to do whatever we can to protect the
fresh life into the travel industry with the
future of the island archipelago and the
launch a new passion project – Maldives
livelihood of its inhabitants.”
United – initiated with the dual purpose of stabilizing tourism in the Maldives and
Additionally, the Maldives United team is
reigniting traveler confidence.
aware that the global community needs something to look forward to during
Maldives United co-founder, Di Lechner,
these trying times. “We’re all about giving
said the initiative comprises a group of
people something positive to dream
leading Maldives resort partners united by
about, to rebuild consumer confidence,
their commitment to elevating the world’s
and to allow them to book their piece of
most unique destination. “We have joined
paradise with peace of mind,” Di said.
forces with some of the Maldives’ most
policy that allows travelers to cancel up
have we seen such discounted packages
to seven days prior to travel.
for the Maldives and we’re proud to
loved properties and together our mission
The Maldives United philosophy is:
is to safeguard tourism in the destination
book now and travel later with financial
and remove financial doubt for travelers
security. To date, 17 resort partners have
“Today might not be the right time to
payment and full cancellation until seven
during
uncertainty,”
joined the initiative and they have all
travel, but it is the perfect time to bring
days before departure, travelers can
she said. “Tourism is the single largest
committed to a lengthy travel window –
fantasies of distant shores to life by
leverage these great rates with a 10%
economic industry in the Maldives and
until December 2021 – underpinned by
securing the trip of a lifetime for the
deposit, without worrying about losing
the local communities depend on it for
an extended payment and cancellation
future,” Di commented. “Never before
money.”
this
period
of
say they’re risk free. By extending final
44 TOURISM MARKETER’S SECTION
TOP 10 TIPS DURING COVID-19, FOR RESORT SALES AND MARKETING LEADERS BY ABDULLA NABEEL
The travel industry has seen some of the
now or later. Get yourself enrolled to an
worst business impacts from the outbreak
online course. Go explore and expand
of COVID-19, a global pandemic threat
your mind.
8. Introduce Value-added Advance need for you to keep posting everything you see or hear on your social feeds or Purchase Offers With what’s going around the world no
private groups. Some of them can be
one is looking for a super last minute
fake. Your networks possibly consists of
cheap deal. But if you promote super
partners or customers. There is no point
You all know that locals are panicking more
special offer for Q3 and Q4, with no
to create more fear.
For a country heavily dependent on
than anyone due to the news of Covid-19.
cancellation or deposit conditions, you
tourism, it is important for the resort
You also know majority can’t afford even
might get lucky. Throw in some value-
managers to be prepared to deal with it.
your extra super special discounted local
10. Stay Healthy and Be Ready for adds that won’t be available during the Rebound
Abdulla Nabeel, former Group Director
rates. So why waste money and time. If
normal periods. Like real values, not just
Focus on yourself and your people. Stay
of International Sales & Distribution of
you get a serious request from a local be
free meals or a coconut on arrival.
healthy, eat well, exercise more, increase
TSMIC highlights 10 important tips of
kind enough to offer your most flexible
how hoteliers can deal with the pandemic.
friends and family rate. You might get a
Make an offer so compelling your
comeback. When everything opens up
prayer instead of huge revenue.
customers will straightaway Take Action!
it’s time to get going even harder.
for crisis handling and communications.
5. Don’t market superficial discounts online
As a S&M Leader you should sit on The
There is no point to market 49% and 59%
9. Stop Megaphoning everything you see or read
Crisis Management Committee. Get the
discount offers for booking valid for this
on social media. Everyone knows where
PR or Marcom team to prepare sample
month or next month. No one is looking
to find the right information, so there is no
messages and press releases in the
for cheap deals now. Most importantly
“pre-in-post” stages of crisis. Make sure
don’t market those discounted rates to
your message is in line with Government
Maldivian audience on social media. You
authorities. Keep updating your in-house
are wasting marketing money.
that now has infected more than 116,000 people and killed about 4,000.
1. Be Crisis Ready Get your teams together and be ready
and future guest on what’s going on in
4. Don’t advertise Local Rates
you are taking to contain possible cases.
6. Don’t reduce your rates to a point of no return
Be prepared. You could be Next!
You all know this situation is temporary,
your island and what preventive measures
to the point you can’t lift up when market stabilizes in few months. Be smart with
Remember the saying, when going gets
how you discount. With each offer always
tough, the tough gets going? Likewise
think of ways to fence and control.
your
ad
campaigns
Stop sharing repeated negative messages
and it will bounce back. Don’t discount
2. Don’t stop marketing campaigns or sales calls
accelerate
your vitamins, pray and be ready for the
and
important accounts and update them on
7. Be flexible with cancellation policy
the situation. Personalize your narrative.
Yes, some of you are, flexible with
Focus on future events or special offers
cancellation for wholesale bookings. But
available within or after next three to six
most of you are still displaying 21-30 days
months.
cancellation penalty policies for arrivals
marketing initiatives. Make calls to your
3. Don’t stop training and coaching
in March and April. If a customer or one of your trade partner goes and checks your website for cancellation policy and
When business input is slow, increase
finds that you are inhuman with your
your talent input. Accelerate your training
policies, they won’t call you. Show you
sessions for your staff. Coaching, one-
are flexible everywhere. Go check all
on-one and those frivolous appraisals
your online channels and remove deposit
you have been hiding in your desk. Do all
and cancellation conditions until Q4, all
that now.
dates included.
Or go learn a new skill yourself. You might
No one will buy into your strict policies
have a skill another department can use
during a time of uncertainty.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Nabeel
is
a
passionate,
focused
worked in some of the top resorts in the
business development leader with years
Maldives in senior business development
of continued success developing and
roles, often tipped as the best sales and
administering innovative sales strategies
marketing professional in the country.
that sustain growth in revenue. Nabeel has
TOURISM MARKETER’S SECTION 45
TOURISM MARKETERS PREPARES FOR UNCERTAIN TIMES, ENTERS WAIT-AND-SEE MODE In the midst of an unprecedented decade
Rafat Ali CEO and Co-founder of Skift
of tourism growth when hoteliers, tourism-
says that there is no V-shaped recovery
related
destinations
waiting at the end of this, we don’t even
number
of
know what the end is or what it will look
challenges, industry stakeholders around
like. For now, an L-shaped recovery
the world are gearing up to address
awaits, the luxury of elective travel will
anticipated new challenges and share
have to wait years, maybe decade, to
active solutions to help steer a course
come back in pre-covid form, if at all.
through uncharted waters.
He further added, “A huge number of
businesses
successfully
tackled
and a
travel businesses, majority of them small The COVID-19 pandemic has affected
businesses, will be gone. Majority of our
the lives and livelihoods of millions of
livelihoods are stopped, maybe gone.
people, and brought about a huge impact
Events are done, for most of this year.
on the travel, tourism and hospitality
Human habits have changed in an instant,
industry. Some experts reveal that the
business travel will forever be lower than
lower than normal, hundreds of hotels
also introduced take-away or delivery
industry will recover by Q4 2020 while
the peak we had.”
have closed, and some may never re-
options on its platform in places where
open.
people are advised to stay at home.
others say it will recover by early 2021. The only certainty is that the industry will
In an emotional video message to Marriott
Tripadvisor CEO and Co-founder, Steve
recover but whats worrisome is how long
International
Arne
Kaufer says that they are adapting and to
He concluded the message by saying,
it will take for this.
Sorenson characterized the coronavirus
take a fresh look at TripAdvisor’s suite of
“When the time comes, people will dine
crisis as more severe for the hotel chain
paid subscription and media products in
out and travel again. When they do,
Industry leaders around the world are
than the Great Depression and World
order to identify how they can ease the
Tripadvisor will be there to guide them to
sending messages to their employees and
War 2. He added that the chain’s global
financial strain on the most impacted
your door.”
the holiday makers in a bid to raise hope.
business is running about 75 percent
businesses at this time. The group has
employees,
CEO
DIGITAL MARKETING TACTICS HOTELIERS CAN USE DURING COVID-19
of how long this storm will last. However,
content and activities guests can do at
the hoteliers could keep on working
home. Time spent on social media has
towards brand awareness and grab the
significantly increased throughout the
holidaymaker’s attention with tasteful
world so although the property is closed
valuable content. Here are some of the
for business, marketers could keep
digital marketing tactics the hoteliers can
providing the travelers with engaging
use:
content to keep them excited amid the
Search Engine Optimization: The pandemic has left with fewer travel brands investing in marketing, which
depressing times. For instance, can ask them to post their most memorable moment at your destination.
visibility within organic search. This
Customer Relationship Management (CRM):
presents the opportunity to create FAQ
Send an email to people who have
pages where hoteliers could address the
cancelled reservations with an option to
top questions around the property, the
rebook a future stay, and stay connected.
measures taken hotel reopening dates
One way is by creating an email list for
if the hotel has been closed, and other
leisure
top concerns. If the hotel or property
and group travelers who have cancelled
has ceased operations, the marketers
reservations so when the COVID-19
can create enhanced content focused
situation subsides, can send an email
at the hotel’s reopening, as well as rich
prompting these guests to rebook with
brings forward the opportunity for more
travelers,
business
travelers,
The unprecedented COVID-19 crisis
if it for a moment. In light of this, many
destination content, as many people are
added value, perks, or a complimentary
has put traveling at pause. Everyone is
hotels can continue creating valuable
daydreaming about future trips once the
welcome amenity.
social distancing at home but definitely
and entertaining content across channels
pandemic subsides.
not disconnected completely, thanks to
to stay connected with guests. Tourism
technology. People keep searching online
marketers have pause d their campaigns
Social Media:
for ways to escape the uncertainty, even
and entered a wait and see mode, unsure
Stay connected to guests with destination
46 TOURISM MARKETER’S SECTION
HOW MALDIVIAN TOURISM CAN SURVIVE COVID-19 BY SONU SHIVDASANI month, to escape lockdowns back home.
to categorize them: “A” group countries
Although they amount to less than a
could be those, like the Maldives, that
couple of hundred people, these guests
have completely eradicated the virus.
will likely spend around $5 million in
There is no reason not to operate
total, generating some $600,000 in GST
direct, commercial flights between such
for the government. Looking further
destinations. “B” group countries might
ahead, the Maldives will need to start
be those with very few remaining active
reopening commercial air routes. But
cases — the Maldives might allow flights
testing a handful of private jet passengers
to and from such countries, but with
at the airport is one thing, testing
added precautions. Then there are the
hundreds
an
“C” group countries with high numbers of
A350 is quite another. The Maldives will
cases — where the Maldives should keep
probably begin opening direct flights to
in place travel restrictions.
of
people
descending
other coronavirus-free countries. China looks like a good bet, having all but wiped
The Maldives has avoided a coronavirus
out the virus. It also has the advantage
outbreak, although the economic price
of being the Maldives’ biggest tourism
has been severe. In order to avoid
market, with a number of existing direct
the collapse of its tourism industry,
flight routes, operated by Maldivian
however, the country must now plan to
or Chinese carriers, between the two
re-open. If the Government approaches
countries. At the moment, however, all
this challenge with the maturity and
Chinese tourists returning from aboard
competence with which it has handled
The Maldives appears to have dodged
During the pandemic, the Government
a bullet. With just 19 cases of the novel
also found its voice. The daily televised
coronavirus at the time of writing (with
briefings
13 people having already made a full
undersecretary
recovery), the country is in an enviable
Office, have been clear, consistent and
position. As the United States and Europe
comforting. The contrast with President
groan under the strain of major outbreaks,
Trump’s erratic and misleading press
with tens of thousands of deaths, the
conferences couldn’t be starker.
have to spend 14 days in quarantine
the crisis thus far, the Maldives may be
in China - not a particularly attractive
spared much of the economic, as well as
eradicating the virus within a few weeks.
But the question remains: if the Maldives
prospect for would-be tourists. The
the human, pain of this pandemic.
In some respects, the Maldives is lucky.
is soon to be virus free, and contemplating
The archipelago straddles the equator,
reopening its borders, how best to do it?
where temperatures rarely dip below
The last thing the country needs is a flood
the high 20s. We know the virus doesn’t
of infected tourists descending upon
like heat, and it’s notable that the only
Hulhule’, forcing another costly shut
major contagions have occurred in cold
down.
by
Mabrook at
the
Azeez,
an
President’s
Maldives looks forward to completely
countries, during winter. The Maldives’ itself
A good place to start might be with the
towards containment: The Government
super-rich. Beginning the process of
can, and has, rapidly shut down islands
opening up by allowing private jets to
and resorts when a suspected case
land has a number of advantages: there
has emerged. If people test negative,
are few passengers onboard, who can
the island is immediately reopened. If
be immediately isolated in the airport’s
someone tests positive, the entire island
VIP lounge and tested for the virus upon
is placed under quarantine to prevent a
arrival. If they test negative, they can go
spread across the country.
on their way. If they test positive, they
unique
geography
also
lends
can proceed to one of the resorts that But luck has only been the half of it.
have been converted into (arguably the
When
wasted
world’s nicest) quarantine and isolation
precious weeks dithering, questioning the
centres. Key to this will be rapid testing
science, or dismissing the coronavirus as
kits, that can deliver a result in minutes
a hoax, the Solih administration got to
rather than days.
other
world
leaders
work to protect the country: suspending widespread
High end clients spend large sums of
testing (the highest per capita testing
money compared to other tourists,
in South Asia), and eventually closing
so even allowing in a few private jets
the border completely. In a country
generates considerable revenues. Soneva
wholly dependent on foreign tourism,
has received around 20 enquiries from
the Government’s willingness to act
people who would like to travel to the
decisively, in spite of the huge economic
Maldives by private jet. They intend
cost, almost certainly saved lives.
to stay in our resorts for upwards of a
flight
routes,
conducting
Maldivian government will have to work with its Chinese counterpart on a bilateral agreement, that allows Chinese tourists returning home from the Maldives to avoid quarantine. Similar arrangements will have to be made with other countries. It might help
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Sonu Shivdasani is the CEO and Co-Founder of luxury resort chain Soneva
TOURISM MARKETER’S SECTION 47
PREPARING FOR A SLOW MARKET: WOULD YOU CONSIDER AN MVP APPROACH FOR YOUR HOTEL OPERATIONS? BY DANIEL DIOSI During the past few weeks, we have
one to only address a small number of
had many interesting conversations with
product requirements with each product
hotel owners and directors from various
release.
segments who are equally concerned about operating in a slow market after the COVID-19 lockdown is over.
Advantages of the MVP approach for product development •
It
enables
the
maximization
of
•
such as turndown services
concept enables to add elements to the
Reduce customizability if it costs
experience and operations bit by bit,
money
taking it to directions that are valuable
but
does
not
guarantee
additional revenue
for your guests and profitable for your
•
Keep only one pool open
company. These new directions of service
•
Reduce free inclusions
development will likely differ from the initial concept that was in place before
Everyone is asking the same question:
revenue and the minimization of
“How would it be possible to maintain the
operational costs.
Developing from MVP to new full experience
It allows a simple and accurate
Getting back to a minimum viable
Such changes in the product will likely be
evaluation
product stage is not only a crisis-solution
adjustments to cater to today’s Millennial
revenue, and profitability
but also an excellent starting point to re-
and Generation Z who require flexible
It allows one to release iterations
develop the hotel concept, operations,
check-in and check-out times, do not
(that is, changes in MVP) quickly for
and business model to adjust it to
requires human interaction to make
a swift optimization
today’s traveler expectations. It is a great
reservations and amendments and do not
It allows one to provide a near-
opportunity and to learn what parts of
like to be “served” like Generation X - but
complete guest experience
a product experience are valuable for
like to connect with staff at a personal
guests and for the financial bottom-line.
level.
same level of service and experience with
•
less demand and lowered rates?” To adjust future operations to a slow market,
preparing
for
changes
•
in
resort management is necessary. For a possible solution, we should look at the
•
MVP approach, which is a proven and commonly used product management system from the startup world. MVP stands for “minimum viable product.”
of
cost,
overheads,
Real-world examples of MVP actions in hospitality management
the MVP-fication.
Starting from a minimum viable product
Build on what is absolutely required. In The MVP approach is based on the premise
the case of low occupancy, the following
that one could provide sufficient customer
cost-cutting
value by delivering essential features
perfect sense.
that are required for a fully functional
•
would
make
Consider closing rooms and operate
•
Consider closing food and beverage
essential services and experiences in
outlets with the lowest turnover
order to minimize operational costs while
profitability
also keeping only the most profitable and
•
Reduce restaurant menus to fastmoving and popular items
demanded services available. •
Use menu-engineering in order to
The minimum viable product approach
optimize food and raw material
involves prioritizing product requirements
purchasing
to the point that they deliver core
• •
Note that this system requires more rigor than usual in prioritizing requirements, as the nature of frequent iterations allows
Analyze minibar consumption and order fast-moving items only
functionality in order to deal with market problems; the rest is only “nice to have.”
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
with reduced room capacity
product. In the case of hotel and resort operations, it could mean providing only
initiatives
•
Eliminate excursions and experiences
Daniel
online
Diosi & Partners is supporting leading
with high standby costs
business transformation and marketing
independent luxury hotels and resorts in
Eliminate non-essential services that
professional with over 10 years of
exotic destinations worldwide.
do not generate revenue directly,
experience. His consulting group, Daniel
Diosi,
MBA,
is
an
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