July 2020
www.traveltrademaldives.com ttm@traveltrademaldives.com
ISSUE 008 International Travel Trade Periodical of Maldives
MALDIVES READY TO WELCOME WORLD FROM 15TH JULY
THOMAS BOERINGER
RESORT MANAGER OF NALADHU PRIVATE ISLAND
AHMED NAVEEN
HEAD OF CENTRAL RESERVATIONS AT AITKEN SPENCE HOTELS & RESORTS MALDIVES
RAFFAELE SOLFERINO
GENERAL MANAGER, GRAND PARK KODHIPPARU
IN THIS ISSUE : Roadshows & Fairs | Government | New Properties | People | Aviation | Awards/Listings/Features | Accommodation | Travel Agents | Tourism Marketer’s Section
24 - 26 NOV 2020
02 FOREWORD & TEAM
PUBLISHER’S NOTE Welcome to the July 2020 issue of
our new project, maldivesvirtualtour.com
content creation studio (Dynamyst) and
TTM Periodical. TTM Periodical is a
will officially commence from July 2020.
digital marketing agency (Bee Digital) to
travel trade publication by Travel Trade
OUR TEAM MANAGING DIRECTOR
Akhmeem Abdul Razzaq
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
compliment TTM team to successfully
Maldives (TTM) – the leading travel trade
Breathtaking virtual tours of Maldives,
business resource of Maldives.
Maldives Virtual Tour is carried out in collaboration with Ministry of Tourism
We at TTM are always grateful for the
The world is preparing to reopen borders
and
Public
support of our partners and industry
and restart tourism with the “new
Relations Corporation (MMPRC). This
stakeholders and we hope to get your
normal”, Maldives included. The tourism
project will be completed by the end of
continued support for TTM Maldives
industry of Maldives has been hit hard
2021 with over 2000, 360° VR panoramic
2020 and Maldives Virtual Tour project.
but we now try to revive it by opening the
tours of more than 150 islands.
Together, let’s embrace the “new normal”
Maldives
Marketing
&
borders from July.
and open our shores to travelers around
Dr. Hussain Sunny Umar
Maldives Virtual Tour is a sister brand of
the world. It’s time. Maldives: The Sun Will Shine Again.
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
TTM Maldives 2020, which was originally
Travel Trade Maldives (TTM) which are
Nashaath
scheduled to be held from 9th to 11th
under Orca Media Group. At Orca Media
DIRECTOR
June has now been postponed to 24th to
Group, we are fully equipped to deliver
26th November 2020. In addition to this,
this project with a well experienced
Ibrahim Areef
accomplish this project.
DIRECTOR
Mohamed Khoorsheed
MANAGER
Ahmed Nasir Aminath Yusra Ibrahim
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.
WEBSITE
orcamedia.group
PUBLISHED BY
MEDIA & MARKETING COMPANY +960 7984664 | marketing@orcamedia.group www.orcamedia.group
ROADSHOWS & FAIRS 03
MALDIVES READY TO WELCOME WORLD FROM 15TH JULY Maldives will restart tourism and reopen
for bookings starting from July 15, 2020.
websites and mobile apps. Tourists who
with symptoms of COVID-19 upon arrival
borders for visitors from all nationalities
Guest houses and hotels located on
are visiting the Maldives during Phase 1
will be subjected to a PCR test at the
from 15th July 2020, President Ibrahim
inhabited islands will be open for
of opening shall book their entire stay
traveler’s cost.
Mohamed
bookings starting from August 1, 2020.
in one registered establishment. Stays
Solih
confirmed.
Tourists
travelling to the Maldives will be provided
at multiple resorts and hotels are not
Additionally, local health authorities may
permitted during this period. However,
conduct random testing, at no cost to travelers.
a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival.
Booking Accommodation
Regular official updates on travel to the
However, guest houses and hotels located
exemptions will be made for transit
Maldives are provided on the websites of
on inhabited islands will be allowed to
arrangements.
the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry
accommodate
of Foreign Affairs of the Maldives.
waiting for domestic transfers under
Entry to Maldives
special permits. Transit arrangements
Tourists will not be subject to any
can be made through the primary facility
quarantine measures upon arrival to the
where the stay is booked.
Maldives.
A
confirmed
establishment
booking
in
registered
a
tourist
with
the
transiting
passengers
Ministry of Tourism, prior to travelling
A health declaration card will be required as part of the on-arrival procedure.
Departure from Maldives Testing services are available in Maldives
to the Maldives is mandatory. Tourist
Tourists are advised to directly check
Tourists will not be required to submit
for tourists who require COVID-19 test
resorts, liveaboard vessels and hotels
offers and operational status with the
any medical test results for entry to the
results to return to their countries of
located on uninhabited islands are open
preferred tourist establishments on their
Maldives. However, travellers presenting
origin or another destination.
Orca Media Group has announced that
trade shows. The registered exhibitors of
the TTM Maldives 2020 will be held from
TTM will also get a lot of added benefits
25th to 26th November. TTM Maldives
including the usage of “Connect� software
2020 was originally scheduled to be held
to pre-arrange up to 50 meetings as well
from 9th to 11th June. However organizers
as complimentary coffee, tea, water,
postponed the event due to the COVID-19
soft drinks at the event. Furthermore,
pandemic. Travel Trade Maldives (TTM)
they will also receive an invitation to the
is the leading international travel trade
official TTM Closing Gala Event.
TTM MALDIVES 2020 TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER
fair held in Maldives and will showcase over 100 resorts/hotels & leading 200
This year, TTM Travel Summit will be
operators from the top 30 countries to the
held on November 24th while the TTM
Maldives. This will be the fourth edition
Maldives will be held from 25th to 26th
of TTM Maldives.
November. The deadline to register has also been extended to 30th September
The exhibitors will get access to the
2020 (Wednesday). TTM informs that
invitation-only TTM Travel Summit and
a late registration fee will be charged
presence in the official magazine of TTM,
after the aforementioned date. For
published in English and freely distributed
further information please email ttm@
at the event & other international travel
traveltrademaldives.com
04 ROADSHOWS & FAIRS
TTM 2020 OPENS FREE VISITOR REGISTRATION FOR MALDIVIAN OPERATORS BY 30TH SEPTEMBER 2020 Maldives leading travel trade show, TTM
travel summit. Furthermore, they will
Maldives has announced that they will
also receive an invitation to the official
be providing free visitor registration for
TTM Awards & Gala Event.
Maldivian tour operators for their fourth edition by 30th September 2020.
TTM Maldives 2020 has limited availability with visitors being strictly limited to 200
TTM Maldives 2020 will be exhibiting
visitors. TTM 2020, is now set to be held
over 150 properties from the Maldives
from the 25th to 26th November 2020
including top resorts, hotels, airlines and
and has been rumored to be a mile better
other key stakeholders of the industry.
than the previous three, both of which
The registered visitors of TTM gets a lot
was a huge success.
of added benefits including the usage of “Connect� software to pre-arrange up to
For
visitor
registrations:
https://
50 meetings as well as invitation for TTM
traveltrademaldives.com/register/
MALDIVES SUCCESSFULLY CONCLUDES FACEBOOK LIVE EVENT “MALDIVES, THE SUN WILL SHINE AGAIN�
Maldives Marketing and Public Relations
their stories to life through song, music
Corporation (MMPRC) has successfully
and shared sentiments. Throughout the 4
concluded the Facebook Live Event
hours, interesting polls were conducted
“Maldives, The Sun WIll Shine Again�
and there were continuous interactions
on 8th June 2020. Due to the COVID-19
with viewers to keep them enticed and
pandemic,
Maldives
to
engaged. Many of them expressed their
implement
stringent
and
love for Maldives and their anticipation
temporary travel restrictions. However,
to return once the borders reopen. The
the country is now preparing to welcome
most thrilling part of this event was the
back tourists and jumpstart the tourism
Lucky Draw Raffle which took place
industry again with the reopening of its
simultaneously.
borders in July 2020. This event was held
participated to win a FREE HOLIDAY in
in order to convey hope and ensure that
Maldives. 30 resorts and guest houses
this message reaches across the globe.
contributed to this.
While the entire campaign gained a
The success of this event is also owed
staggering amount of 1.2 million people,
to the help, support and contribution by
the live event itself was watched by
the Ministry of Tourism, Public Service
over
different
Media (PSM), Mondhu Productions and
parts of the world, as they joined in on
Orca Media. This is one of the numerous
a beautiful virtual journey to rediscover
initiatives taken by MMPRC to kickstart
Maldives. The event featured messages,
tourism in the Maldives, as it reopens
photographs and videos from well-
its borders. MMPRC will be carrying
wishers, key opinion leaders, social
out such virtual events and other digital
media influencers, tour operators and
marketing and promotional activities in
other personnel involved in the tourism
the future, to ensure Maldives is the most
sector of Maldives. In addition, local
sought after destination in the world.
85,000
viewers
was
forced
measures
from
musicians and other local talent brought
video news network of maldives
Over
10,000
people
ROADSHOWS & FAIRS 05
MALDIVES PARTICIPATES AT ATM VIRTUAL NEW SOLUTIONS IN A NEW WORLD due to the current situation. The event
MMPRC hopes to increase the number
will focus on emerging travel trends and
of tourist arrivals from the Middle
challenges faced by the tourism industry
East through such events and other
amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
various
It will also serve as a networking platform
on this region. The tourist arrivals from
for travel professionals. Maldives will be
the Middle East to the Maldives were
joining together with exhibitors, buyers,
recorded as 60,003 in 2019, with a 15.1%
and visitors from across the globe.
increase compared to 2018. This year
marketing
activities
focused
in January saw an increase of 73.7% in During these three days MMPRC and
tourist arrivals compared to the same
participants from the tourism industry will
period last year despite the outbreak.
meet up with several travel professionals and attend live webinars given by industry
MMPRC is maintaining its efforts in the
experts. With the borders reopening to
digital promotion of Maldives as one of
tourists soon, Maldives is working on
the most preferred island destinations in
ways to sustain tourism effectively with
the world. The focus remains on the road
Maldives Marketing and Public Relations
in the Arabian Travel Market (ATM)
safety precautions in place. The event
to recovery, with the aim of providing a
Corporation (MMPRC), together with
Virtual Event from 1st June to 3rd June,
will provide extremely beneficial insights
broader scope for the rest of the world to
partners
2020.
which could be incorporated into future
connect with the destination.
becomes a part of an exciting solution to
ATM Virtual is hosted by the organizers of
promotional strategies in the tourism
adapt to the “new world” by participating
ATM 2020 which was postponed to 2021
industry.
from
the
tourism
industry
BRING MALDIVES INTO YOUR HOME BACKGROUNDS/ WALLPAPERS Maldives Marketing and Public Relations
as they allow you to virtually meet with
Corporation (MMPRC) has released a
others when in-person conversations
collection of Zoom backgrounds, mobile
aren’t possible. For Zoom video calls,
and desktop wallpapers allowing you
MMPRC
the chance to reminisce memories of the
backgrounds of the turquoise waters and
paradise destination.
white sandy beaches.
As you wait eagerly for your return to the
The collection of “Maldives in your
sun, sand and sea, why not experience a
pocket”
bit of Maldives from home? Try a Zoom
window to the sunny side” desktop
video call from a virtual beach, have
wallpapers have 5 different snaps for
Maldives in your pocket and a window
each. In addition to this, MMPRC has also
to the sunny side! Video conferencing
released the Resort Hotel Guide 2020 and
services are becoming hugely popular,
the Destination Guide 2020.
has
mobile
released
3
wallpapers
stunning
and
“A
06 GOVERNMENT
TOURISM MINISTER CALLS ON COMMONWEALTH TO RECOMMENCE INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL Maldives Tourism Minister, Ali Waheed
zero tourist arrival since March 2020.
has urged commonwealth countries to re-
To
support
open their borders for safe international
to
flatten
travel.
establishments with nearly 3000 beds are
the the
governments curve,
26
effort tourism
being used for quarantine and isolation During the virtual seminar with senior
purposes.
officials from commonwealth countries on “COVID-19’s Impact on Tourism,
https://twitter.com/MoTmv/
Debt, and Disaster Risk Management”,
status/1265636553818288128?s=20
Minister Ali Waheed said that Maldives has experienced the worst economic
Moreover, the Minister also highlighted
downfall in recent history. The country is
the governments green and inclusive
estimated to have negative 26% economic
policy for recovery and “guidelines for
growth in this year due to COVID-19
restarting Maldives Tourism” from July
pandemic.
2020. Minister requested support from the Commonwealth nations in combating
The Minister noted that the country is
the challenges for safe international travel
heavily dependent on the tourism and
and to restart the economic activities in
for the first time in 47 years of tourism
the countries.
in Maldives, the country is experiencing
GOVERNMENT 07
MALDIVES PROPOSES GUIDELINES TO COMMENCE SAFE TOURISM
•
Covers) shall be maintained by the
In addition to this, it is compulsory for
resort.
tourists to undergo a PCR Test upon
Resort shall have a resident doctor
arrival which costs USD 100 per test.
and a nurse (certified by the relevant licensing bodies).
Timeline for Reopening
Guest receiving and transportation All airports will have to have disinfection
Tourism Ministry has proposed a phased
procedures in place for body, luggage and
reopening timeline to recuperate the
travel documents of visitors. The staff
tourism sector.
should have mandatory protective gear such as facemasks and gloves and should
Private jets and super yachts will be
maintain 1 meter between the tourist and
allowed from June 1st, 2020. Charter
staff. While transportation, speedboats
flights and private jets will be charged a
and aircrafts carrying tourists to resorts
landing fee of USD 50,000 while super
and liveaboards from the airport will have
yachts will be charged an entry fee of USD
to keep every alternate seat vacant.
10,000. This will be followed by access to charter flights and commercial airlines a
On arrival at the tourist facility, guests
month later from July 1st 2020.
should be directly escorted to their rooms without waiting for check-in procedures
Guesthouses and hotels will be permitted
at the reception. Guests will be provided
to commenced their operations from
with an online check-in form to be
August 1st, 2020, while no plan is yet
completed in their rooms. Guests will not
Resorts shall allocate facilities for
in motion to allow cruise ships to the
be able to leave their rooms until they get
industry, Tourism Ministry has proposed
quarantining staff equivalent to 10%
country.
the results of their on-arrival PCR test
guidelines to commence safe tourism.
of staff population
On a bid to revive the hard-hit tourism
The Ministry informs that this guideline
•
•
draft is open for feedback.
Guest service staff shall be trained in the use of PPE.
•
Entry to Maldives While a prior confirmed booking in a
done at the airport. During this period, meals will be served directly to guest rooms.
Staff should be trained on social
tourist facility with a Safe Tourism License
distancing procedures.
is compulsory, entry into Maldives require
After test results are received, guests can
Staff should be trained on disinfection
a special tourist visa of USD 100 which
go out and enjoy all facilities at the resort,
procedures.
is applicable “until further notice” by the
but they will be required to adhere to social
Emergency procedures shall be put
government. This special tourist visa will
distancing protocols while interacting
shall be issued to resorts complying with
in place to deal with suspected cases
only be granted for tourists committing
with other guests or employees. Tables at
all relevant legislation and the following
of
isolation
to a minimum stay of 14 nights in the
restaurants will also be set at a distance
set of standards:
procedures. All staff shall be trained
Maldives. The tourists are also required
of at least two metres and buffet meals
on these procedures.
to present a medical certificate not older
will not be served. The tourism Ministry
Adequate stock of medically certified
than seven days for antigen PCR test or
states that these guidelines will be
registered guest rooms for isolation
PPE (Masks, Gloves, Face Shields,
14 days for antibody test which confirms
applicable till September 2020, unless
purposes.
Gowns, Caps and Boots or Boot
negative Covid-19 test findings.
extended by the government.
President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has
experts,” President Solih said. “This will
announced that when tourism reopens
be carried out in phases. As such the first
post COVID-19, in order to facilitate
phase would ease going out and about
the resort operations, the resort lease
and implement easier arrangements for
payment for the last 6 months of the year
general businesses. In later phases, there
will be deferred.
will be fewer restrictions in gatherings as
Safe Tourism Resort License A licensing fee of USD 50,000 is
•
applicable for the issuance of the safe tourism license. Safe Tourism License
•
Resorts
shall
allocate
10%
of
•
•
COVID-19
including
GOVERNMENT DECIDES TO EXTEND RESORT LEASE PAYMENTS
well.” Speaking at a special address to the nation, President Solih further added that this
He further added that permits to reopen
includes the land lease payments for the
mosques, cafe’s, restaurants as well
agricultural plots and lease payment for
as schools will be given under special
any other land given by Finance Ministry
arrangements. These arrangements will
for various purposes. The President also
also extend to government and private
stated that the arrangements to roll back
offices, where employees could soon
the lockdown measures and revive the
resume work.
economy will be made under special arrangements and phases.
The President noted that the technical team related to this work will give out
“We are preparing to ease the lockdown
additional
in Male’ area with advice by the health
arrangements in the coming weeks.
information
regarding
the
08 GOVERNMENT
SAFE TOURISM GUIDELINES TO WAIVE OFF INITIALLY PROPOSED FEES
Tourism Ministry has decided to amend
of the safe tourism license along with
be finalized before June 1, the Ministry
of reopening Maldives borders to tourists.
the draft guidelines for Safe Tourism by
USD 100 visa fee and a $100 charge for
reported. Minister Ali Waheed had virtual
“Pleased to talk over the phone with
waiving off the initially proposed fees.
a compulsory PCR Test upon arrival.
consultations with industry stakeholders
World Tourism Organization @UNWTO
Speaking at the Peoples Majlis Economic
Furthermore, charter flights and private
and further discussions with MATI,
SG @pololikashvilitonight. SG assured
Committee tonight, Tourism Minister Ali
jets were to be charged a landing fee of
MACL, MMPRC, MCAA and Technical
that UNWTO will assist in our guideline
Waheed said that the draft regulation
USD 50,000 while super yachts entry fee
Advisory Group on 21st May regarding
to restart Maldives tourism & give full
was drawn up on a bid to revive the hard
was at USD 10,000. The fees were waived
“Guideline to Restart Maldives Tourism.”
support in the process. Discussions are
hit tourism industry. The first draft by
off based on the feedback from industry
After the meeting, the Minister talked to
ongoing with the stakeholders for a good
the Ministry included a licensing fee of
stakeholders. The guidelines have also
World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO)
start,” Minister Ali Waheed said, on
USD 50,000 applicable for the issuance
been revised for the third time and will
chief Zurab Pololikashvili on the process
Twitter.
discover turkey FLY WITH TURKISHAIRLINES
EXPEDITE MALDIVES | PHONE NO: 3009595 | VIBER: 7229595 | EMAIL: SALES@EXPEDITEMALDIVES.COM
GOVERNMENT 09
RESORT LEASE PAYMENTS EXTENSION WILL COST GOVERNMENT MVR 900 MILLION - FINANCE MINISTER The resort lease payment extension to
deferred. So the government will earn
6 months will cost the government MVR
this next year,” Finance Minister Ibrahim
900 million, Finance Minister Ibrahim
Ameer said.
Ameer revealed. The government has also extended the The Minister said that resort lease
land lease payments for the agricultural
payments
for
plots and lease payment for any other
government earnings with MVR 1.7
land given by Finance Ministry for various
billion budgeted to receive even this year.
purposes. These decisions were made
However the government is expected to
in efforts to to roll back the lockdown
receive MVR 800 million now due to the
measures and facilitate the hoteliers and
lease payments deferment. “We have
companies to revive the economy, the
not abolished the payment, it is only
government reports.
contributes
vastly
“IT IS NOT THE TIME TO LEVY TAXES ON HOLIDAYMAKERS” - TOURISM MINISTER Maldives has assured cheaper post
Maldives economic activities have come
COVID-19 offers for holidaymakers with
to a halt just like any other country and the
no plans of levying new taxes, according
government is now working on reviving it,
to Tourism Minister Ali Waheed.
the Minister added.
He highlighted that it is the time to assure
Tourism Ministry has drafted guidelines
safety for the tourists when reopening
to open the borders and commence Safe
the tourism industry. “It’s time to travel
Tourism. The guidelines have also been
again. It’s time to travel safe,” he said
revised further after discussions with the
speaking at a webinar organised by the
industry stakeholders for the third time
World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).
and will be finalized before June 1, the Ministry reported.
Minister Ali Waheed explained that the
MALDIVES TO WELCOME ALL NATIONALITIES TO ITS SHORES Maldives will welcome travelers from
and exclusive holiday packages starting
all nationalities to its shores from July,
from July. Maldives kicked off tourism
Tourism Ministry confirmed. Guests will
with “Maldives, The Sun Will Shine
be given visa on arrival and will not be
Again” campaign on 8th June welcoming
charged with any additional fees upon
travelers back to its crystal clear waters
entry. The Ministry further revealed
and white sandy beaches again.
that there will not be any mandatory quarantine
for
travelers
and
won’t
be charged with any additional costs. Travelers will also be offered with better
Featured image: Asad Photo (Ibrahim Asad)
lucrative tourism sector of Maldives is
Maldives sees to open its borders by July,
hit hard due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
depending on the situation.
10 GOVERNMENT
ECONOMIC MINISTRY SIMPLIFIES REGISTRATION PROCESS FOR TOURISM COMPANIES leasehold, sub-leasehold or management rights.
This
generally
required
1. The new investor who is looking
a
to enter the Maldives market to
letter from the Ministry of Tourism, a
acquire an interest or property in the
completed sale and purchase agreement,
Maldives;
or at least an expression of interest in the
2. The existing investor who is looking
purchase of the property. However, to
at registering a new company to
better facilitate the flow of business in the
acquire a different property either
tourism industry, Economic Ministry has
independent of the existing property
now waived this requirement altogether.
or current partners; and 3. The existing investor who may want
Under this newly instituted practice, a
to diversify into other interests within
company may be registered by an investor
the same space, sector or industry.
without having confirmed its interest in acquiring rights over a specific property.
Source: Article published on Nasheed
The investor will receive an initial period of
and Co law firm – one of the renowned
six months post-registration to complete
law firms in the country.
Ministry of Economic Development (MED)
a tourism property (whether an island,
the acquisition of the property under the
has simplified the process of registering
land or lagoon), the investor was required
name of the company. The initial period
a foreign investment company in the
to show evidence of a right to acquire
may be extended where there are specific
tourism sector. Previously, if a foreign
an existing leasehold, sub-leasehold or
circumstances acceptable to the Ministry.
investor sought to register a company in
management of a tourist property, or
This change directly benefits three types
the Maldives in order to own or operate
an equity interest in a company holding
of investors:
MALDIVES EASES LOCKDOWN IN GREATER MALE’ AREA, COMMENCES PHASE 1 Maldives will be easing lockdown in
•
Specialty shops such as those selling
greater Male’ area with phase 1 where
cosmetics and textiles can also take
people will be allowed to go out for more
orders online and provide delivery
hours and general businesses will be
service.
permitted to open from 28th May.
•
Banks allowed to provide essential services for three days a week in the
The first phase is to last for two weeks
first two weeks. In the second phase,
according to Health Minister Abdulla
banks can increase their service days
Ameen. Schools, government offices,
to five a week.
cafes, and restaurants, as well as gyms
•
Restaurants and cafes to only be
and salons, are to remain closed during
allowed to provide takeaway and
the first week.
delivery service in the first two weeks. However dine-in will not be allowed.
Phase 1 of the lockdown easement
•
Government
offices
will
remain
includes:
closed, but essential staff can go to
•
office under special permits.
Maximum of three people from each household allowed to go out for up
Private offices can open for essential
to three hours twice a week but they
needs under a special permission
will still have to get a police permit
from the economic ministry.
beforehand. •
•
•
Retail shops, Bakeries, Supermarkets,
Colleges and universities can resume online classes.
Businesses that can open include: •
•
Parks,
beaches
• and
recreation
two weeks.
further added that lockdown measures
Transportation between islands will
may have to be imposed again depending
also remain banned.
on how things unfold. Maldives initially
Flu clinic services will be available to
announced lockdown for 2 days with the
the public.
first positive case from the capital on 15th
Bookshops, Pharmacies, Hardware
centres, as well as schools and
Health officials highlighted that easing
April. It was followed extended later as
shops, Shops specializing in childcare
mosques in capital Male’ and its
the lockdown measures do not mean
the community spread increased.
items.
suburbs will remain shut for the first
that things will go back to normal. They
NEW PROPERTIES
11
MADIFUSHI PRIVATE ISLAND TO DEBUT LATE 2020 Madifushi Private Island, the habitual
been architecturally designed to sit in
Maldivian haven, will make its debut in
harmony with the natural environment,
late 2020. A celebration of design and
senses are awakened – not overwhelmed.
human spirit, Madifushi Private Island
Each villa and suite comes with a terrace
expresses and accord of form, function
that leads to a private pool with access to
and innovation in driving hospitality
the palm fringed beach or perched over
trends that will set the benchmark in its
the Indian Ocean with either a sunset or
style. The greatest wonders of serenity
sunrise view, each location allows guests
are invites and inspired with an innovative
the utmost privacy and opportunity
and distinctive design that sits in perfect
to connect with nature and Maldivian
harmony with the natural environment.
culture. Explore somewhere untainted.
Islet and location
History and heritage
Naturally born 16-hector island is nestled
1988
in the Meemu Atoll, renowned for its
Maldives Inflight Catering (MIC), a joint
abundant flora and fauna, including
venture
swimming with whale sharks and manta
Company Limited and SATS Ltd, MIC,
rays to sailing with dolphins at sunset,
being the leading inflight caterer in the
the resort is reached by 35-minutes
Maldives with over 32 years of experience
picturesque seaplane flight over the
serving customers and the company want
atolls.
to continue growing with their customers
51 rooms with modem features, such
and exotic hotel catering to the diversified
and partners by creating value for both
as private balcony and some are with
needs of guests. Set in a heavenly
parties.
Jacuzzi, to those who are craving more
ambiance of turquoise blue waters, our
enthusiastic on their travel.
Maldives airport hotel is a perfect place
Stays and explore
between
Maldives
Airports
Set amongst the tropical flora and fauna; the beach havens or over-water
2000
havens have been perfectly designed for
Opened
travelling families and groups of friends
International Airport with 85 rooms, and
Hulhule Island Hotel, located on the
alike. Each spacious villa and suite have
2008 extended the service with another
International Airport Island, is a modern
their
city
hotel
at
Velana
Hulhule Island Hotel
for the guests on leisure as well as on business.
12
NEW PROPERTIES
COCOGIRI ISLAND RESORT TO OPEN ON 1ST DECEMBER 2020
Cocogiri Island Resort, a new luxury
Guests can also enjoy evenings watching
resort situated in Vaavu Atoll is scheduled
the sunset while dining at Cocogiri’s beach
to open on 1, December 2020.
restaurant with a range of international cuisine made by their highly experienced by
team of chefs, or cool off at the bar. For
International
more adventurous guests, the resort
Airport, Cocogiri is already being hailed
offers the opportunity to scuba dive or
having one of the best house reefs in the
snorkel with their on-island Dive School,
Maldives, making it a dream come true
or raise your adrenaline levels with their
for snorkelers and scuba divers.
extensive
Located seaplane
just
12
from
minutes Velana
away
water
sports
programme.
Explore the surrounding islands and Cocogiri is an exclusive, boutique resort
immerse yourself in the cultural beauty
featuring 20 water villas and 20 beach
of the Maldives through Cocogiri’s daily
villas on a private island ensuring the
excursions.
utmost tranquility for guests. A perfect setting for relaxation, exploration and
Regardless of the occasion, Cocogiri
rejuvenation. Whether you choose to
Island Resort assures to offer the perfect
relax in a swimming pool, swim in the
setting for rare moments of romance,
crystal-clear blue ocean, sunbathe on the
adventure, excitement and memories to
white sandy beaches or enjoy the serenity
last a lifetime.
of Cocogiri’s spa and wellness centre, the resort promises to provide an unmatched luxurious experience.
SIYAM WORLD BY SUN SIYAM RESORTS OPENING LATE 2020 Sun Siyam Resorts’s newest addition,
house-reef just metres away from the
Suites & Residences, as well stunning
vegetarian, raw as well as vegan cuisine
Siyam World will make its debut late
island! Offering a unique Premium All
over-water accommodation including a
options in addition to Italian, Indian and
2020. This property is going to be the
Inclusive plan – WOW! Inclusive, Siyam
water suite and a grand water residence.
grill specialties. Add a world-class spa,
resort with most rooms in #Maldives,
World promises you an all-encompassing,
Many of these accommodation come with
wellness and sports facilities along with
with over 490 rooms. Siyam World,
hassle-free
with
their very own private pools. Focusing on
some of the region’s best dive sites just
Noonu Atoll isn’t just everything you ever
fantastic
dine-around
the fun element, the deluxe water villas
metres away, Siyam World is truly indeed
wanted from a Maldivian holiday… It is
opportunities on all days along with a
with pool comes with individual water
an island of infinite choices, fun and bliss!
much MORE! A whole world of wonders
whole lot of FUN activities! The resort
slides that deliver you to the water below!
awaits you on a 54 hectare, pristine and
offers varied accommodation ranging
The island-wide dine-around includes
natural island, with its very own exotic
from Beach Villas to expansive Beach
exotic cuisine experiences like pure
holiday
experience
island-wide
PEOPLE
INTERVIEW WITH THOMAS BOERINGER
13
and it was a privately-owned company.
thing was a very successful operation. It
So, there was not a lot of structure in
was fantastic for all of our guests that we
place, there was not a lot of assistance
had at that time there as well.
in place where you could go to corporate
What do you consider your biggest and where to get certain products or achievement during your career in services. It was literally starting from the hospitality industry? office and ask them for what you needed
scratch and building your own hotel.
The most notable achievement I think is
The only thing that was given to us was
being here at my age. I am very grateful
the architecture, consisting of the rooms
that I got the opportunity and that
and furniture. Based on that they literally
the previous General Manager of our
threw me in the cold water and said:
properties here gave me this chance,
turn this into a luxury resort property. I
especially here with Anantara. For Minor
didn’t know where to start. Do you start
Hotels to allow someone as young as me
planning concepts? Do you start ordering
a chance to run their best resort… that
glassware or do you start ordering
really is a big achievement for me. And for
bedding or what? So, I had to find my
us here collectively, we have been voted
way, figuring out what it actually takes
as Condé Nast’s best resort in the Indian
to open a resort and realizing very fast
Ocean for the 3rd consecutive year. I
that it’s very complex and that you have
can’t say that the first two wins were due
to put in a lot of effort because it’s not a
to my effort because I wasn’t here at that
little thing to open a resort, especially for
time but now guiding this one for a 3rd
a privately owned property. It was very
year in a row, I think shows the efforts we
difficult, and with almost no assistance
put into this place. Shows the experience
whatsoever. Yes, I had the GM looking
that our guests are actually getting at
over my shoulder, ticking off boxes saying
Naladhu Private Island and shows that
yes this is perfect, go ahead and do this,
our team that we have is really fantastic
but I was given a lot of flexibility. I would
and going above and beyond. Without
say it was one of the biggest challenges
them it would not have been possible. So,
ever for me. I had to build a team from
I am very proud that I am able to achieve
the local team members that we had at
this at a very young age.
My name is Thomas, I am the resort
property on Koh Yao Noi, a little island
manager of Naladhu Private Island, one
between Phuket and Krabi. I was there
of the islands Minor Hotels manages here,
for 3 months and after that short time
together with Anantara Veli and Anantara
they actually offered me to take over the
to no English experience, no experience
passionate about what I do. I’m Swiss
they were building directly next to it. Of
side and that a knife goes to the right side.
and I started my career in hospitality
course, very enthusiastically I said yes. I
school in Switzerland and ended up in
told them that I would be excited to take
this wonderful place called Maldives.
on this assignment, but to bear in mind
that time as well. Sometimes there’s little
What’s the best advice you can Dhigu. I am 27 years of age, still very position of pre-opening resort manager in hospitality whatsoever, so we had to give to those looking to join the young to be a resort manager but very for their 5-star luxury property that teach staff that a fork will go to the left hospitality industry?
What other properties have you worked for?
that this would be my first pre-opening experience. I would not have perfect experience like other candidates, but I’m
I studied in Switzerland at an international
definitely eager and 200% enthusiastic to
hospitality management university. After
actually do it. So, I opened a property
that I started my career as an Assistant
called TreeHouse Villas Koh Yao, which
F&B Manager at a local property in my
consisted of tree houses directly on the
hometown, offering lots of different food
beach. A beautiful property and adults-
and beverage options. The hotel featured
only. I stayed there for almost 2 years and
a restaurant with a Michelin star during
after that I got the opportunity to work
my time and now has 2 Michelin stars. It
here in Maldives. It’s a truly exceptional
also featured banquet facilities as well as
assignment being a Resort Manager at
meeting rooms, plus a normal à la carte
Naladhu Private Island and I very much
restaurant with bar and room service, so I
enjoy it.
was managing over five outlets almost by
Let’s talk about some of the General Manager. It was a very valuable challenges you have faced during your career. experience. myself, as I was reporting directly to the
I think one of the biggest challenges for After that I realized that I needed some
me was the preopening experience and
more international experience so I went
getting kind of thrown into the cold water.
to Thailand. I started working as an
Being still very young at that time, they
Assistant Manager for a 4-star superior
literally just told me to open the resort
For me I think, for hospitality you are either made for it or you are not. It is
So really started with hospitality basics
something that has to do with passion. As
again. And the toughest part of that,
Steve Jobs once said, ‘If you love what you
I think, was the delay in the opening.
do, you don’t have to work a single day in
We had a specific opening date that
your life.’ I love to jump out of bed in the
was planned, but in the end, we had to
morning and I am so happy to be working
postpone it for another month, then
in hospitality and having this positivity
an additional month and we already
towards it. A positive attitude is one of
had a quite a lot of bookings on hand.
the most important things in hospitality,
So, it was up to me in the end to really
and what I realize is that it’s important
phone up all the agents and all of the
sometimes to take a risk. However, you
guests and say that unfortunately we
also have to be mindful about taking
cannot accommodate you at the moment
risks. I just try things sometimes, because
because we are just not ready yet. That
you will not know how it will come out
was a really tough one.
if you don’t just give it a try. So, trying something
may
sometimes
lead
to
Approximately 150 to 200 room nights we
success, sometimes may lead to failure,
had to move around and try to reschedule
but the most important thing is learning
our guests’ holidays and try to arrange
from the experience and from everyone
something
experience
you meet. If you want to learn, you will
from which I have learned a lot on how
get the support from the people around
to deal with people, how to understand
you and they will push you forward to
their sentiments as well, trying to make
help achieve what you want in life. So it’s
them understand in what kind of situation
all about driving yourself forward, having
you are in. We faced the challenges,
your dreams in front of your eyes and just
overcame them and in the end, the entire
pushing towards it.
different.
An
14
PEOPLE
AHMED NAVEEN – HEAD OF CENTRAL RESERVATIONS AT AITKEN SPENCE HOTELS & RESORTS MALDIVES and experience those initial steps. So,
specially the different market segments.
Naween first entered the tourism industry
Me and my team are very well geared
a s a Reservations Assistant in 2003 and
to cater to them with our experience.
by 2006, was promoted to the position of
However, today we see the world as one
Reservations Executive.
common village where you will not be able to see all guest expectations, from successfully
their country of origin. To put it in simple
climbed his career ladder to become
terms, the future of tourism is based
Senior Reservations Executive and then
on major markets such as Chinese and
Assistant
Reservations.
Indian vacationers and they can be found
Today, he has made it onto a position
all over the world. So, I see that their
where he manages an inventory of 750
expectation patterns have changed due
rooms with two well known Aitken Spence
to globalization. So, we do not find that
Resort brands; Adaaran and Heritance in
amount of stereotyped travelers today
the Maldives. At one point, he was out
anymore.”
By
2010,
Naween
Manager
had
for
of the company where he was gaining experience in the travel industry for two
As his key competencies, Naween is able
years with “Get into Maldives Travels.”
to understand the expectations of different
Today, he holds position as Head of
types of travelers and regards his years
Central Reservations.
of experience in the field has given him the ability to master this very well. With
The reservations point is the first step for
a career spanning over 17 years, Naween
any guest when they embark on planning
also shared some interesting insights on
their vacation. Naween also shared with
the operations behind reservations. He
us memorable experiences; from the
started initially working with 50 to 60
point when the fax machine was used to
travel agents and today, he deals with
handle reservations and to the point in
over 1000 travel agents plus OTAs.
the current era of the internet-of- things
Reservations at Aitken Spence Hotels &
Naween revealed an interesting story
Resorts Maldives.
behind
his
introduction
to
Aitken
Spence. He came to know of AS when he whose
from 7 to 10 days. However, over the
software that we are using today.
course of time, this has reduced to 3-4
Reservations during the very early stages,
markets, and this increases the workload
were mainly handled through fax and
in reservation operations. In the past too,
later on of course, the trend moved onto
major markets used to be Italy, the UK
emails and now, bookings arrive straight
and Germany although today, this has
to the system. Today, Naween and his
also changed incredibly. The tourism
team handle over 1000 inquiries and from
industry is a very sensitive sector and
700 to 800 booking nights / per day for
each and every positive and negative
all seven properties. The Reservations
aspect of trading in this industry is easily
Department is the nerve centre of the
noticeable. “In any part of the world,
resort chain and they make the first
we see trends of ups and downs in this
impression for the resort where they get
business through bookings,” he says.
accompanied a male friend to find a job
Hithadhoo of Addu City, is 40 years
for him and ended up working with Aitken
old. He is professional who has carved
Spence Reservations as he was passionate
for himself an illustrious career so far.
about the internet, and reservations was
Going back to his student years, Ahmed
a potential gateway for young Naween at
attended
Secondary
the time to embark upon and explore the
School, which was known by this name
world through a job of that sort. He never
at the time and which happened to be
knew that he would be stepping into a
one of the leading secondary school’s in
career that would lead him to become an
Addu City and which is currently known
iconic hotelier in the hospitality trade.
the operations staff to become proactive.
He also added, “We started with three
They pass information such as guest
members and today, we have a vibrant
his O/L exams, Naween continued to
At the time, the Central Reservations
preferences, celebrations, what they like
and
serve at his school as Cadet Master for
department was handled from Colombo,
to do or not want to do and up to their
speak eight languages and I see that our
the next three years. Having noticed the
Sri Lanka. As a futuristic move, later on,
dietary plans to name a few.
success purely depends on the team, the
opportunities and future potentials that
the Management took the bold decision
were opening up for the Maldives through
to set up a separate department for
tourism enticed him to join Aitken Spence
the Male sector and Naween was lucky
Resorts in the year 2003. So, on 6th June
enough to have been a part of those
of that year, Naween joined the 1st Batch
initial instigations, and to be cast as a
of the Central Reservations Department.
member of the 1st Batch and to witness
Southern
hails
creating the reservations management
from
the
family
Traditionally, the average guest stay was
days due to the increase in certain major
Meet Ahmed Naween, Head of Central
Naween
which has modernized the process of
as Sharafuddin School. After completing
all types of information that will make
multi-cultural
eight
team
who
leadership and support that I have from When queried about the challenges he
the Aitken Spence company.” He also
faces on a daily basis, Naween disclosed,
proudly included that his dedication, hard
“We know what our guests want when
work and continued passion has helped
they reach us, having known about the
him achieve the success he sees today. He
market for a period of time now and
has sacrificed many day offs and worked
PEOPLE 15 extra hours to achieve beyond what was
in the near future.” As a message for
will not appear cloudy forever. So, if you
you want. Naween’s story proves that
expected and this trait has enabled him to
youth who look towards carving a career
stick to one goal with a positive mindset,
everything in life happens for a reason
easily climb the career ladder.
pathway in tourism, Naween adds that
you will ultimately be what you want to be
and there is a plan for everyone. He is
adopting a positive mindset is key. He
in time.”
proud today for having selected Aitken
When queried about his plans for the
explains, “Your workplace becomes your
future, Naween stated, “Learning never
secondy home.
ends. We are in an industry where one
Spence as his second home. As an ending remark, he also disclosed, “If you sit and ponder on little challenges
can excel in their career and to fulfill those
Nothing will come to you on a silver platter
that come your way, you will never be
dreams, I look forward to excelling in the
when you start working in any field. The
able to succeed in life. But, any challenge
field of sales and marketing as well. So, I
first year will be challenging and may be
you face will make you stronger and allow
have plans to expand into that segment
the second year as well. However, the sky
you to move forward to achieve what
RAFFAELE SOLFERINO – GENERAL MANAGER, GRAND PARK KODHIPPARU
What’s the best advice you can give to those looking to join the and more, there is a lot to do. We don’t hospitality industry? destination I think it has good continuity, it’s a solid destination and will grow more need to go anywhere in the world if we are here. Some colleagues like challenges
They have to look at the hospitality
in cities like Bangkok, Singapore, Milan,
industry
London, Paris. That is also something
growing; it has a lot more to give. It’s a
nice but I am not missing anything, I am
solid industry so if you approach the
very happy here.
hospitality industry there will be a period
Give us a quick intro about Grand Park Kodhipparu.
as
something
that
still
is
where you have to understand and decide where you want to go. Into operations or sales to reach to management level. After that, when you find your way, you need
Grand Park Kodhipparu used to be
to make it on your own with passion and
a picnic island for locals. It has been
never, ever give up. You should always aim
developed, with 60% original island and
for the highest level, never stop working
40% was reclaimed. We have 120 villas,
towards achieving excellence. Aim for the
102 on water, 18 on island. We have 3
top. You must have big dreams and clear
food and beverage outlets, 1 amazing spa.
objectives to make it in this industry.
A top dive center and so many watersport
What’s in the future for Maldivian resorts and the industry in celebrity chefs for unmatched fine dining general? options. Kodhipparu has everything;
nothing is missing here. We’ve even got experiences.
What do you consider to be your biggest achievement during your Our team at Travel Trade Maldives Maldives was in 2010 in Baa Atoll. I tried career in hospitality?
I think the Maldives will have two scenarios speedboat
for
the
distance
future,
for
records
the there
will be more integrated resorts, with
decided to sit down and gain some
to go away and spend 2.5 years in Bali,
I don’t like to talk too much about myself,
reclaimed land similar to Crossroads,
insight into the inspiring story of Raffaele
Park Hotel Group, brought me back to the
maybe its best other people judge my
Fari Islands. In that direction also with
Solferino, the General Manager of Grand
Maldives with an exciting project to open
achievements. I am happy doing what I
spectacular
Park Kodhipparu Maldives.
the group’s first property in the Maldives.
do with passion If I look back, there are
Dubai spectacular architectures with
Maldives is basically home for me now…
at least four GMs that reached this level…
underwater developments and other
it’s a nice place. I am very happy to be
let’s say, under my education. That makes
attractions driving still luxury but more
back in this lovely paradise.
me proud. At the same time, opening a
volume tourism. While for those resorts at
I am in the hospitality industry for more
resort like this in 4 months… that is quite
What was so different about home country from the Amalfi Coast where Maldives that you decided to stay?
seaplane distance you will see more small
than 3 decade, I started from Italy my
something. It’s really an achievement I
boutique resorts on natural islands for a
can be proud of. People don’t believe it
more relaxing and in a sense more original
the luxury tourism is the main economy
What I found interesting about Maldives is
when I say so. We arrived in March 2017,
Maldivian tourism where the Islands are
and the luxury lifestyle is well known to
that… first, it’s a place of innovations. It’s
hotel was open on 8 June, 2017. Though
natural with the related natural forests
celebrities, with spots like Amalfi, Capri,
a place where you can set new standards
we celebrated with a grand opening party
and barefoot experience, with Maldivian
Positano, Sorrento. I worked all over
and you can be creative. The market is
in December 2017, we checked-in the first
cultural heritage, adventure and sports.
Europe, in Italy, Switzerland, Germany,
very challenging and competitive, so you
customer in June. That was something
France, England, Monte Carlo. Middle
have to always find something different,
that makes people go “wow”. However, I
East, in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Bahrain,
something that gives an edge over
can’t take all the credit. Whatever I do,
Lebanon and Asia Pacific Indonesia,
competitors, which in turn gives additional
I am never alone. I always have a good
Singapore, Bali First time I came to
opportunities to express yourself.. As a
team behind me.
How long have you been working in the hospitality industry?
structures,
challenging
16 PEOPLE
THE RITZ-CARLTON MALDIVES, FARI ISLANDS APPOINTS JULIANA S. SALLA AS RESORT MANAGER The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
She has played a key role in pre-opening
has welcomed Juliana S. Salla as its
properties of the W, proving herself to be
Resort Manager. She will begin her new
an inspired leader.
assignment on 1st July, 2020. Juliana is currently serving as Executive Juliana brings extensive knowledge and
Assistant Manager at The Ritz-Carlton
expertise boasting three years working
Bali,
with Marriott, and a total of 17 years in
and security operations. Amongst her
the international tourism and hospitality
achievements whilst in The Ritz-Carlton
sector in South America, North America,
Bali, she has increased guest satisfaction
Europe, Middle East, Asia Pacific and
by 7% year-on-year, led the team
China.
during the merger between Starwood
overseeing
the
rooms
division
and Marriott in the implementation of After graduating college, Juliana was
new systems and Champion for Brand
appointed as Guest Youth Activities
Standards and Quality Audits for the
Trainer
hotel
Coordinator
cum
Assistant
operations.
Her
outstanding
Manager Luxury passenger cruise ship at
performance and dedication during her
Disney Cruise Lines, where she spent 4
tenure with Marriott led her to well-
from Sao Paulo University. She speaks
100 island and overwater villas. There are
years before moving to land-based hotel
deserved promotion to Resort Manager
fluently
and
5 food and beverage options distributed
operations.
at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives.
Spanish, plus basic knowledge in French.
among the islands. Other than the all-day
in
English,
Portuguese
dining, guests can enjoy Italian, Chinese In 2007, Juliana joined the W brand
A native of Brazil, Juliana holds a
Located on the North Atoll of Maldives,
and Japanese teppanyaki specialties.
(previously owned by Starwood) then later
bachelor’s degree in Communications
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives Fari Islands
Uniquely design facilities include an
on acquired by Marriott. During her 10-
from Faculdade de Comunicacao Casper
will be part of a lively integrated Marina
experiential Kids Club, Recreation Club
year journey with the W, she held various
Libero and also multiple degrees in hotel
Village & Resort Destination with world
and Spa.
senior leadership roles at its properties in
management
Morumbi
class luxury living & recreation facilities.
Qatar, Indonesia and China.
University and guest services operations
The resort is made up of 4 islands with
from
Ahembi
PEOPLE
17
JOALI MALDIVES PROMOTES ISMAIL NASHEED TO RESORT MANAGER JOALI Maldives has promoted Ismail
worked with Anantara Hotels. Ismail
Nasheed to its new Resort Manager.
has over 21 years’ of experience in the hospitality industry.
Ismail initially joined JOALI Maldives early 2018 as Front Office Manager. Through
Set on the picture-perfect Muravandhoo
continued hard work and dedication, he
Island, JOALI Maldives is comprised of
was soon promoted to Rooms Division
73 private beach and over-water villas
Manager and now as the Resort Manager.
and residences, each of which showcase
He initially started in the industry with
how luxury travel and sustainability can
Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts where
go hand-in-hand with impeccably stylish
he worked for 13 years. He has also
design.
PATINA MALDIVES, FARI ISLANDS APPOINTS AHMED SINAN AS HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGER
Patina
Maldives,
Fari
Islands
has
extensive improvement in HR welfare and
appointed Ahmed Sinan as its new Human
colleague engagement. With a Bachelor
Resources Manager.
of Arts Degree, his creative side is an asset to any organization he has worked
Sinan joins the Patina Maldives pre-
for. His previous experience in the pre-
opening team from his role as the
opening team of CROSSROADS Maldives,
Human Resource Manager at SAii Lagoon
will also be an added advantage for Patina
Maldives, Curio Collection by Hiltion
Maldives, which is of similar concept.
which is part of the CROSSROADS, the first integrated resorts in the Maldives.
Patina Maldives, Fari Islands will be
He has previously worked at Kanuhura
the first launch under Patina Hotels &
Maldives and Shangri-la’s Villingili Resort
Resorts, a new sophisticated lifestyle
and Spa.
brand by Capella Hotel Group, which was created for progressive travelers
He initially started as the Graphic
of
Designer
Maldives,
situated in the heart of the Fari Islands
however was later promoted to Employee
archipelago, Patina Maldives will offer
Relations officer where his career in HR
guests the opportunity to enjoy privacy
began.
and seclusion or freedom of movement
for
Shangri-la
a
new
generation.
across the islands. Sinan is an emerging HR leader with 11 years of experience in the hospitality industry and 7 years of experience in Human
Resources
management.
His
major accomplishments were in Kanuhura Maldives, where the team saw an
GET ALL YOUR SPORTS & RECREATION REQUIREMENTS farish@soneesports.com.mv | T +960 333 5995 | +960 798 3352
Strategically
18 PEOPLE
VILLA HOTELS AND RESORTS APPOINTS MURAD HASSAN AS DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Villa Hotels & Resorts has welcomed
as the Director for market management
Murad Hassan as its new Director of
at Agoda for Malaysia and Maldives. He
Business
a
has been with Agoda for over 9 years.
successful professional with over 17
Murad has previously worked for Bandos
years’ experience in tourism marketing
Island Resort and the Maldives Tourism
in Maldives with management experience
Promotion Board.
in His
Development.
sales,
revenue,
specialties
Murad
and
include
is
marketing. hotel/resort
Villa Hotels & Resorts is one of the leading
contracting, destination marketing and
resort chains in the Maldives, operating
promotion, online sales and marketing
five exclusive island resorts: Paradise
strategy, and business development for
Island Resort, Sun Island Resort, Royal
online travel marketing consultancy.
Island Resort, Holiday Island Resort and Fun Island Resort.
Prior to his move to Villa Hotels and Resorts, he was most recently working
PATINA MALDIVES, FARI ISLANDS APPOINTS NASRULLA ADAM AS DIRECTOR OF SALES Patina
Maldives,
Fari
Islands
has
in Front Office, Hospitality Management,
appointed Nasrulla Adam as its new
Customer Service, Hotel Booking, and
Director of Sales.
Tour Operators. He is a strong sales professional with a BA (Hons) focused on
Nasrulla joins the Patina Maldives pre-
Hospitality & Tourism Management from
opening team from his role as Director
Birmingham College of Food-Tourism-
of International Sales at Amilla Fushi.
Creative Studies.
He has previously worked with Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Baros Maldives,
Patina Maldives, Fari Islands will be
Anantara Kihavah Villas, and at PER
the first launch under Patina Hotels &
AQUUM
Huvafenfushi.
Resorts, a new sophisticated lifestyle
He initially started as the assistant
brand by Capella Hotel Group, which
reservations manager in the industry and
was created for progressive travellers
climbed up the leadership ladder to now
of
the Director of Sales.
situated in the heart of the Fari Islands
Niyama
and
a
new
generation.
Strategically
archipelago, Patina Maldives will offer Nasrulla is an experienced sales director
guests the opportunity to enjoy privacy
with a demonstrated history of working
and seclusion or freedom of movement
in the hospitality industry. He is skilled
across the islands.
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AVIATION 19
AIRASIA OFFERS CREDIT ACCOUNT EXTENSION, UNLIMITED FLIGHT CHANGES UNTIL OCT 2020 allows them to change their flight date
bookings made via airasia.com. For group
for the same route unlimited number of
bookings or those made via travel agents,
times without incurring any additional
kindly refer to your respective booking
cost before Oct 31, 2020, subject to seat
agent for further assistance,” it said.
availability. AirAsia said the airline is complying Those who choose the credit account
with advice and regulations from local
option will be able to retain the value
governments, civil aviation authorities,
of the flight booking in their AirAsia
global
BIG Member account for future travel
including the World Health Organisation.
with AirAsia, to be redeemed within
It is also closely monitoring this situation
730 calendar days (two years) from the
and reserves the right to announce
issuance date.
further policies according to the latest
and
local
health
agencies,
developments. “The travel date of the new booking can fall on any date within the published flight
Guests can refer to the airline’s COVID-19
schedule on airasia.com,” the airline said
Guide for step-by-step instructions on
AirAsia guests with bookings for flights
AirAsia Bhd said the validity of credit
in a statement. It said that in the next few
how to use the airline’s AI chatbot AVA
departing between March 23 and July
accounts previously issued for COVID-
weeks, the validity period of all unused
on support.airasia.com or airasia.com to
31, 2020 can now choose to have a credit
19-related flight disruptions will also be
credit accounts issued to guests affected
make their selection.
account with a two-year validity period
automatically extended up to two-years
by COVID-19 travel restrictions will also
or unlimited flight changes for flights
for future travels. Guests may choose
be automatically extended to two-years.
departing up to Oct 31, 2020.
between two options -- the first option
“This is only applicable for direct online
discover turkey FLY WITH TURKISHAIRLINES
EXPEDITE MALDIVES | PHONE NO: 3009595 | VIBER: 7229595 | EMAIL: SALES@EXPEDITEMALDIVES.COM
20 AVIATION
QATAR AIRWAYS CABIN CREW TO WEAR PPE GEAR DURING FLIGHTS
Qatar Airways has announced that they are
introducing
personal
protective
equipment (PPE) suits for the cabin
•
Bottles of hand sanitizer will be placed in the galleys and made available for both cabin crew and passengers.
crew during flights. This is to reduce the interactions between the passengers
Since
and crews during COVID-19 pandemic.
pandemic, the airline has been regularly
According to the airline, the crew will wear
disinfecting
PPE suits over their uniforms in addition
cleaning products recommended by the
to safety goggles, gloves and masks. The
International Air Transport Association
precautions are meant to provide greater
(IATA) and the World Health Organization
assurance of safety to their customers.
(WHO).
the
beginning all
their
of
COVID-19
aircrafts
using
Furthermore, the airline also implemented additional health and safety measures
Moreover, Qatar Airways implemented
onboard their flights to assure passenger
advanced air filtration systems in their
health and safety:
aircrafts equipped with industrial-size HEPA filters that remove 99.97 per cent
•
•
All social areas onboard the aircraft
of viral and bacterial contaminants from
have been closed to observe social
re-circulated air, providing the most
distancing measures.
effective protection against infection for
In economy, all meals and cutlery are
their passengers.
served sealed as usual. •
In business class meals will be served
Qatar Airways is the national flag carrier
on a tray instead of a table set up,
of Qatar, flying more than 160 destinations
and a cutlery wrap will be offered
in 82 countries. However, the airline has
to passengers as an alternative to
temporarily reduced its flight operations
individual cutlery service, in an effort
due to the pandemic.
to reduce contact between the crew and the passengers.
AIRASIA IMPLEMENTS CONTACTLESS PROCEDURES FOR ESSENTIAL TRAVEL Japan from today, where guests making
user experience and a seamless and
their essential travel can print their
contactless self check-in process. There
boarding pass and baggage tag after
are also plans to progressively add other
checking-in online on airasia.com or
features such as travel visa scanning
through the mobile app, ensuring a full
capabilities in the near future,” it added.
contactless check-in process.
AirAisa’s group chief operations officer Javed Malik said: “In addition to the
“Another contactless travel procedure
existing
strict
will be the PRS, which will be available
ground, such as social distancing markers
at klia2, followed soon by other airports
and Allstars wearing personal protective
in Malaysia where AirAsia operates. The
equipment (PPE), we are pleased to
PRS entails no boarding pass exchange
introduce
between guests and AVSEC (aviation
procedures to deliver more secure, safe,
security) as guests only need to scan them
efficient and contactless experience for
instead,” a statement by the airline read.
our guests across the region.
our
safety
measures
updated
on-
contactless
Additionally, AirAsia has also digitized out
Wave payments for AliPay and WeChat at
the boarding process by scanning all
“The safety of our guests and Allstars is
several initiatives for essential travel
klia2 in Malaysia, and will include other
boarding passes at the boarding gate
our utmost priority and these additional
including
at
airports gradually. Other options such
instead of collecting stubs of physical
enhancements
airports, contactless kiosks, Passenger
as BigPay and Touch ‘N Go will also be
ones.
continued commitment to keep flying safe
Reconciliation Systems (PRS) as well
available soon.
AirAsia
Group
Bhd
contactless
is
rolling
payments
our
in the new normal environment for air “AirAsia’s mobile app will also see an
as enhanced features on its mobile app
demonstrate
to help ensure smooth and safe travel
“The contactless kiosks are available at
enhancement later this month where
experience. AirAsia said the airline has set
all operating airports across Malaysia,
guests can scan their passports via the
up contactless payment options including
Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia and
app itself, facilitating a more streamlined
travel,” he said.
AVIATION
21
EMIRATES RESUMES PASSENGER FLIGHTS WITH NEW MEASURES distancing measures where possible.
Cabin baggage remains restricted to
Families that are travelling together can
essential items such as a laptop, handbag,
request to sit as a group when checking
briefcase or baby items for on board.
in. In business and economy class, Emirates Emirates has amended its boarding
will resume its service with hot meals,
procedures, and passengers will now
using cutlery and crockery, sterilized
enter the aircraft by exact row rather than
before each use. Premium passengers
zone, from the back of the plane to the
will be given single-use menus, and items
front. Emirates boarding agents dressed
such as mattresses, pillows, blankets,
in full personal protective equipment
headphones and toys will be hygienically
will be on hand to assist with this and
sealed before use.
all waiting areas have been amended to allow for social distancing.
The airline recommends that travelers carry their own pen with them to fill out
Travelers who are set to transit through
Health Declaration Forms required at
Emirates has resumed regular passenger
is in place and protective barriers have
the airport onto another flight will have
some destinations.
flights from Dubai International, to nine
been installed at each check-in desk and
to go through thermal screening upon
destinations with a series of new safety
immigration counter to provide additional
disembarkation. They will then be given
“We are working with all the stakeholders
procedures. The Dubai airline launched
safety reassurance to passengers and
new hygiene kits at the gate before
in
flights from the UAE to Europe, the US,
employees.
boarding a connecting flight.
immigration,
Canada and Australia from May 21.
Dubai
–
including health
the and
airport, aviation
authorities to implement such measures,
Upon check-in, Emirates will give all
Emirates will fly to Chicago, Frankfurt,
In-flight safety measures
passengers free hygiene kits. These will
London,
Milan,
An additional crew member has been
expert advice for any development and
include face masks, gloves, antibacterial
Paris, Sydney and Toronto, with flights
added to all Emirates flights that have a
changes,” said Adel Al Redha, Emirates’
wipes and hand sanitizer. The gloves and
scheduled on these routes until June 30.
flying time of more than 90 minutes. This
Chief Operating Officer. “We are all
Madrid,
Melbourne,
masks must be worn at the airport and
and we will continue to review and consult
person, the cabin services assistant, will
aware that we have to adapt to different
the face masks are also compulsory on all
Online check-in for all flights remain
be responsible for sanitation of lavatories
practices during this pandemic in our day
Emirates flights. At Dubai International
suspended. This allows Emirates team
which will now be cleaned every 45
to day activities.”
Airport, thermal temperature scanning
members to assign seats based on social
minutes.
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22 AVIATION faces fatal catastrophe in their business.
counter check-in hours, transit hours.
Also, certain airlines have already sought
To eliminate this time for consumption
government support and are under
and safety reasons the airlines will
discussion to save their company as the
reduce baggage allowance and impose
demand goes down.
restrictions on excess baggage facility, mandate
online
check-in
and
wear
However, it is safe to say that the near
face masks all the time. Also, airports
future of air travel won’t be normal
will have compulsory facilities such as
during post pandemic era. IATA’s Chief
thermal cameras to check customer
Economist, Brian Pearce, says: “COVID’s
temperature. Hong Kong airport already
effects on air travel are certainly going
added passenger disinfection channels
to last a number of years with no quick
prior to embarking and disembarking at
rebound to 2019 levels”. Under the IATAs
the gates.
baseline scenario, it expects travel to
THE FUTURE OF AIR TRAVEL LIES BEYOND THE “NEW NORMAL” BY ILACIYAH MADHUSHAN
return to normal by 2023, but under its
However, any initiative newly added to
‘setback scenario’ - if lockdown continues
the service will be costly. For an instance,
into the autumn or if there’s another wave
suggestion to block the middle seat inside
of the virus - travel might not return to
the aircraft may not work in the long
normal until 2024.
run, and from a business perspective. Any airline must carry at least 80% of
Therefore, many airlines have pushed to
seat factor to manage and yield revenue
haul initiatives to ensure to manage their
passenger-kilometers
(RPKs,
customer loyalty, passenger safety and
measure
of
keep commercial operations. As the first
carried by an airline), therefore if the
step during pre-pandemic era, leading
middle seats were eliminated, the airline
carriers
repatriation
may not be able to cover the cost even
program in both commercial and under
with 100% seat factor with the remaining seats.
have
initiated
The aviation industry has been drastically
financial crisis and up to prevailing 2020
diplomatic understanding and worked
affected throughout the COVID-19 crisis
COVID-19 global pandemic crisis.
along with governments, embassies and
which began with travel bans imposed at
the
volume
which
passengers
diplomatic agencies. They have also
Bureau of Transport statics has forecast
early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak.
Based on the most recent die down during
opted to convert passenger aircrafts to
air fare will go down by 35% during post
Almost every country in the world
2007/08 financial crisis which resulted in
cargo to carry crisis relief aids, and to put
pandemic era, that is including the whole
has taken strict measures to fight the
-1.2% annual growth in global air traffic
aircraft to use in the crisis period. Apart
year of 2021. It reveals that the prices will
pandemic by the closing of borders,
passenger demand, the estimation of
from the operations, few leading carriers
increase again by 27% after the demand
airports, restricting movement, and two-
COVID-19 impact aggregates between
have declared leniency by introducing
bounces back, which will take at least
weeks quarantine in authorized facilities
35% to -65% than the expected decline in
flexibility
travel
three to four years. This is purely due
etc.
international passengers in 2020* (ICAO
vouchers to their customers who has
to the gap between supply and demand
Air Transport Reporting Form A and A-s
purchased and subsequently canceled
where the industry is now suffering with
Aviation
Plus ICAO estimates, 2020). To address
their trips during COVID-19 period.
more supply than demand. Also, due to
Organization (ICAO) estimates a potential
the demand and supply gaps which
The flexibility program is a win-win for
current the oversupply issue and severing
gross operating revenue loss of USD 151
airlines have pushed to reduce their
both customers and the airline, as it will
operation costs, many airlines are likely
to 228 billion if the first signs of recovery
network operations until the demand
benefit the customer by enabling them
to retire Airbus 380 and Boeing 747
are seen by late May 2020. However, the
bounces back, for instance, some leading
to have maximum flexibility period up
aircrafts and will reinstated with tight
estimation of loss could increase from
legacy carriers has reduced up to 98%
to 24 months to plan their future travel,
aircrafts to take maximum advantages on
USD 194 to 269 billion if there is no relief
of their network route. On the other
and for the airline in long term to keep up
marginal utility.
from the pandemic and if the industry
hand, the airline companies with strong
the customer retention and in the short
restarts in the third quarter or late 2020.
financial backing from the government
term to refrain from burning liquid cash
However, there is a contradicting situation
The overall estimation is severe compared
are now planning to gradually increase
for refunds when the cash flow is at the
which push the airlines to a deep dilemma
to the baseline versus impact which is
more routes which was suspended due to
critical stage.
since there is a huge gap between demand
approximately USD 236 to 419 billion
COVID-19 in early March 2020.
The
International
Civil
potential gross operating revenue loss of
programs
such
as
and supply. The air fare reduction is going The worse hit from the passengers’ point
to be the worst nightmare for the industry
airlines and overall reduction of 1,815 to
Many airline companies may not survive
of view is that they cannot expect a hassle-
at present grounds and eventually the
3,213 million passengers.
until post pandemic era, CAPA center for
free journey in near future.
Countries
companies will face bankruptcy in reality.
aviation has predicted that by end of May
will eventually open their airports and
Alexandre de Juniac, Director General of
The industry is witnessing the biggest
80% of seat factor will be go down and
borders, however the authority will
IATA has mentioned to CNN that in these
and longest demand drop since 9/11 and
due to less demand, and many airlines
impose certain mandatory regulations
conditions airlines will not be able to fly
subsequent great recession period in the
will be grounded. Further, the companies
to ensure the passenger safety such as
unless the ticket prices must be increased
year 2008/09. The industry has faced
have started to lay off their workforce in
aircraft disinfection process after arrival
50% to 100% for airlines to make money
many obstacles in the past 50 years due to
order to reduce the operation costs and
or before departure, long check-in queues
and cover their cost hence future of airline
socio, economic and political crisis. ICAO
survive through the crisis. CNN Business
with one meter social distancing between
will not rely with cheap air travel. (CNN:
also analyzed data based on evaluations
Insider emphasized that government
customers, removal of kiosk system to
Higher prices, fewer amenities: New era
since year 1971 oil crisis to year 2007/08
backing is mandatory before the company
eliminate finger touch points, and longer
of air travel)
AVIATION 23 any industry leaders believe taking out the
ensure passenger safety. However, in the
middle seats to ensure social distancing
long run, finding treatments or vaccine is
on board is unrealistic but instead the
the only solution to overcome COVID-19
airline can mandate face masks, placing
and bounce back to normal travel life for
sanitizers on board and airlines should
passengers and for the airline industry.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Ilaciyah Madhushan is an experienced Sales & Marketing professional with proven track record in Aviation travel and tourism industry for more than 10 years.
invest on aircraft disinfection process to
VELANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT GEARED UP FOR “NEW NORMAL” – MACL
Maldives
Airports
Limited
airport. MACL also added that similar
(MACL) has announced that Velana
floor markings, also each three-feet apart,
International Airport is geared up for the
were placed at the check-in counters in
“new normal”.
the domestic terminal at the airport.
In preparation for the reopening of tourism
In addition, four feet tall glass sheet
industry,
separators
MACL’s
Company
General
Manager
between
counters
were
Hassan Areef said that all precautionary
installed to strengthen the protective
measures are now put in place to open
measures against the virus.
the airport. MACL further revealed that hygienic Velana
International
Airport
has
measures would be intensified across the
implemented social distancing measures
airport. All seats and desks, lounge areas,
with clearly visible distance information
ticketing and check-in counters, along
and floor markings in passenger terminals
with flooring and airport tarmac area are
as a precautionary step for the safety of
subject to daily disinfecting drills.
passengers and staff. According to MACL,
INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL WON’T RETURN TO NORMAL UNTIL 2023
bright floor markings can now visibly be
President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih earlier
seen, three feet apart from each other, in
announced
places of possible passenger congestion.
Airport was set to resume welcoming
This includes ticketing and check-in
international
counters, and the pre-flight inspection
COVID-19 situation in Maldives continues
zone in the international terminal at the
to improve.
International air travel may not return to
per year in 2020 from 8 billion per year
normal until 2023, the International Air
in 2019 - having a significant impact on
Transport Association (IATA) has said.
airlines.
that
Velana
flights
International
within
July
if
The top industry body for air travel said that flights around the world are unlikely
Chief executive of IATA Alexendre De
to be widespread for another three years.
Juniac said only 50 per cent of air travel
Domestic travel, on the other hand, is
will return by the end of 2020. “What
expected to be up and running as usual
we see is that things should come back
again by the end of 2020 following the
to normal in 2023, which is later than
coronavirus pandemic across the world.
our previous forecast. That shows the importance and the severity of this crisis
“COVID-19’s effects on air travel are
on air transport,” he said.
certainly going to last a number of years with no quick rebound to 2019 level,” said
He further reiterated that the impacts of
IATA’s Chief Economist, Brian Pearce.
the crisis on long-haul travel will be much more severe and of a longer duration than
Under the IATAs baseline scenario, it
what is expected in domestic markets.
expects travel to return to normal by 2023, but under its ‘setback scenario’ - if
“Rebuilding passenger confidence will
lockdown continues into the autumn or if
take longer,” he added. “And even then,
there’s another wave of the virus - travel
individual and corporate travelers are
might not return to normal until 2024.
likely to carefully manage travel spend and
IATA forecast that revenue passenger-
stay closer to home. This makes globally
kilometres (RPKs, which measure the
agreed and implemented biosecurity
volume of passengers carried by an
standards for the travel process all the
airline) would drop to under 4 billion
more critical.”
24 AWARDS/ LISTINGS / FEATURES
MALDIVES AMONG MOST-SEARCHED TRAVEL SPOTS BY SINGAPOREANS Maldives has been listed among the most
travel destinations for check-in dates
searched travel spots by Singaporeans,
between January to February 2021 are
Expedia
are
Tokyo, the Maldives, Bangkok, Niseko,
searching for staycation options in the
Seoul, Bali, Taipei, Johor, Sapporo, and
near term, with an eye on overseas Asian
Okinawa.
revealed.
Singaporeans
destinations for their year-end travels, Expedia data showed.
Maldives was also among the most searched for, according to Google for
While they are looking to travel from
topics, “flights to Maldives” and “trips
October to December 2020, the top
to
destinations searched for that period
pandemic.
Maldives”
during
the
COVID-19
includes Tokyo, Taipei, Bangkok, Seoul, the
Maldives,
Bali,
Phuket,
Osaka,
In addition to this UK’s leading celebrity
Hokkaido, and Hong Kong, the data said.
news
Come 2021, Singaporeans seem to
that Maldives is among the 8 travel
display renewed optimism for travel to
destinations celebrities will likely to book
resume normalcy in the new year. Top
post lockdown.`
site
Hello
Magazine
revealed
AWARDS/ LISTINGS / FEATURES 25
MALDIVES - WHERE INDIAN LUXURY TRAVELER WANTS TO TRAVEL NEXT
Maldives emerges as the destination
but they want to see them being followed
where Indian luxury travelers wants to
for themselves. Trust will be key. While
travel post pandemic. This was revealed
flying, for instance, COVID-prevention
by the online survey: The Indian Luxury
measures will be the #1 factor while
Traveller Report: Covid Edition.
picking an airline. And at hotels, it will be imperative that guests are able to witness
The report is an outcome of an online
some of the cleaning process, are assured
survey of 3,500 Indian luxury travelers,
of the cleaning products being used, and
conducted in May 2020. More than 70%
that all staff are trained so that they can
of the respondents polled were from the
answer any questions or concerns guests
big metros of India: Delhi-NCR, Mumbai,
bring to them. Demanding they may be,
Pune, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad,
but they are willing to pay extra for certain
Kolkata,
Seventy-three
services such as a daily deep-clean of
percent were in the 25-55 age bracket;
the room, or even a one-night-empty
45% were salaried employees, 24% were
buffer (see graphic). And fully aware of
self-employed/consultants, while 14%
the impact of travel on the environment,
were entrepreneurs and 3% were retired.
a whopping 65% said they are willing to
A whopping 70% remain open to travelling
pay extra if the hotel or resort is following
abroad on vacation this year. Maldives
sustainable and eco-friendly practices.
Ahmedabad.
was voted the destination they are most likely to choose, presumably for the
India is now one of the fastest growing
natural beauty and luxurious resorts with
outbound
a wide range of in-house activities for
world. While Maldives made record by
families to enjoy.
welcoming 1.7 million tourists in 2019,
tourism
markets
in
the
Indian market took the second place The survey further revealed that the
among the top 10 markets in 2019.
Indian luxury traveler assumes that airlines, hotels and restaurants will have
Featured image: Asad Photo (Ibrahim
systems for hygiene and safety in place,
Asad)
SONEVA NAMOONA LISTED AMONG BEST ECO-INITIATIVES IN HOSPITALITY Soneva’s
Maldives
properties—
institute daily sustainability practices
Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani—truly
like composting into Maldivian life. This
represent the intersection of wellness
initiative was inspired by the Eco-Centro
and sustainability. The brand’s Soneva
waste recycling program that has long
Namoona has been named as a legend
since been in effect at Soneva Fushi. The
awards honoree for eco initiatives by
eco-initiative began on the Maldivian
Departures Magazine.
island of Maalhos, and Soneva plans to expand the Namoona program the islands
Departure Magazine’s Best Eco-Initiates in
Hospitality
2020
is
selected
of Dharavandhoo and Kihaadhoo.
by
assessing the luxury hotels and resorts
Soneva Fushi was the first ‘castaway’
that are keen to do their part to inspire
resort in the Maldives, pioneering a trend
conservation initiatives in their local
for back-to-nature luxury holidays. It still
communities. These hotels are reported
tops lists of the top 10 best luxury resorts
to be working tirelessly to preserve
in the Maldives. In 2009, the Soneva
the region’s natural beauty, by finding
Hotel group built a second, even more
innovative ways to reduce waste, and
spectacular hotel – Soneva Kiri – on the
reuse and conserve resources. They
unspoilt Thai island of Koh. The Soneva
are not only implementing new eco-
story continued with the brand’s newest
initiatives, but educating their staff,
luxury resort: Soneva Jani, a spectacular
travelers, and members of the community
resort that sets new standards in Maldives
on best preservation practices. The
that is already known for its world-class
brand launched Soneva Namoona in
hotel standards.
February 2020 as a major attempt to
26 AWARDS/ LISTINGS / FEATURES
67% CHINESE TRAVELERS THINK MALDIVES IS SAFEST DESTINATION
67% of Chinese travelers have said
haven given its inherent island isolation.”
that Maldives is the safest destination,
The majority of the respondents went
while 90% agreed that they would travel
with beach villa for accommodation types
to Maldives. This was revealed by a
while 4 star resorts was most voted as the
new survey of 1,100 qualified Chinese
type of hotel stay. The data also saw 75%
travelers in first tier cities by hospitality
of respondents prefer independent travel
consulting group C9 Hotelworks and
to Maldives versus being part of a group.
Delivering Asia Communications focusing
38% wanted to book hotels and flights
on travel sentiment to the Maldives.
separately.
“Travel safety is a key post-crisis factor
A rising tide of consumers identified
for
including
direct or social media channels to book a
Chinese,” commenting on the report
Maldives holiday with Fliggy, WeChat and
findings C9’s Managing Director Bill
hotel websites accounting for over a third
Barnett said. “What is interesting from
of the expected share demand. China is
the China responses was that 67% of
the largest source market for Maldives
those surveyed considered the Maldives
tourism.
to be a safer holiday choice compared
its position as the top contributor to
to other destinations. While a lingering
Maldives tourism with market share of
‘fear factor’ is a COVID-19 consequence,
16.7% (284,029) in 2019.
all
overseas
travelers
the country is likely to be seen as a safe
MALDIVES TOPS THE MOST SEARCHED TRAVEL SPOTS BY BRITS Maldives is the most popular searched
(10th). Maldives was also ranked in fourth
destinations for a holiday by Brits. This
place of most popular countries to search
was revealed by TravelSupermarket’s
for a holiday after lockdown, any date
data between May 16 and 30. The top
departure. Various other online surveys
ten most-searched-for places by Britons
have further landed Maldives on top
in the past fortnight for a holiday to
searches list of Indian luxury travelers,
depart between July 1 and October
Chinese, US travelers and Singaporeans
30, 2020, are Las Vegas (first), Tenerife
during the pandemic.
(second), the Maldives (third), the Costa Blanca (fourth), Dubai (fifth), Orlando
Featured image: Asad Photo (Ibrahim
(sixth), Canary Islands (seventh), Majorca
Asad)
(eighth), Amsterdam (ninth) and Crete
Chinese
market
maintained
AWARDS/ LISTINGS / FEATURES 27
10 INCREDIBLE MALDIVIAN PRIVATE ISLANDS TO SPLURGE ON POST COVID-19
5. Waldorf Astoria Maldives
Watersports Center, and 24-hour access
Located at Ithaafushi island, Waldorf
to the state-of-the-art fitness center for
Astoria is part of the Hilton portfolio.
workouts including anti-gravity yoga and
The resort features 122 villas, each
meditation practice.
compromising of a pool and a view of the Indian Ocean. The highlights of the resort
8. Naladhu Private Island
include
Naladhu
the
two-bedroom
overwater
Private
Island
Maldives’
villa and three-bedroom beach villa for
exclusive retreat with just 19 elegant
those seeking exclusivity and the 11
houses and one two-bedroom residence –
dining venues and bars including Terra,
is a home away from home. The resort is
an elevated treetop restaurant, and The
so exclusive that even at full occupancy,
Ledge by Dave Pynt. Waldorf Astoria
it accommodates only 42 guests in its 19
Maldives Ithaafushi was also listed among
dual-occupancy villas and single split-
the 10 sexiest private island resorts of
level two-bedroom mansion. It’s no
2020 by brides.com.
wonder A-list celebrities, Arab princes and many on Forbes’ World’s Billionaires
6. Velaa Private Island
List make annual pilgrimages here.
Named among the decades best new
If what you want is utter seclusion and
below.
Thoughtful,
in-room
luxury hotels’, Velaa Private Island is
9. COMO Maalifushi
comprised of 18 overwater villas, 25
COMO Maalifushi, recently listed among
beach villas, houses and 4 four-bedroom
the best private beach vacations for post-
residences. Each dwelling is serviced by
lockdown luxury travel, stands apart
a personal butler, ready to accommodate
with its understated style, encapsulating
any desire that guests might have in mind.
the spirit of the Indian Ocean and the
The private residences on at each villa
barefoot chic of a COMO private island
covers a 1,350sqm space, capable of
resort. The luxuries are all there, with a
housing up to 10 people.
COMO Shambhala spa, world-class yoga facilities and exceptional cuisine along
touches
7. The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli everyone but the resort staff and a few cocktails; yoga mats; and sketch kits, Resort
with the Maldives’ vibrant marine life.
perfect peace, in a location off-limits to
include fresh herbs and citrus for DIY
other guests, then a private island is the
in case the Maldives’ sherbet-colored
The Private Island Experience at The St.
10. Soneva Jani
only place to go.
sunsets inspire guests to preserve the
Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort grants
With the popularity of Instagram, world-
setting on paper.
premier access to the resort’s portfolio of
famous Soneva Jani has become a resort
77 transcendent signature villas including
for luxury travelers as it offers unrivaled
the illustrious John Jacob Astor Estate,
photo opportunities. Located on an
Here we bring you our favorite 10 incredible private islands from Maldives
3. Hurawalhi Island Resort
to splurge on post COVID-19.
At adults-only Hurawalhi you can roll
the most expansive overwater villa in
uninhabited five-island cluster in the
out of bed, put on snorkeling fins and
the Maldives. Accommodating up to 154
Noonu Atoll, the Maldives’ most exclusive
Find a very private setting for intimate,
your over-water villa. Hurawalhi is home
breakfast at Alba, the resort’s signature
pristine beaches, blanketed with lush
one-of-a-kind experiences. Niyama offers
to the world’s largest all-glass undersea
restaurant, along with a daily food and
tropical greenery, and surrounded by a
a resort within a resort: The Crescent. It
restaurant, located 5.8 meters below the
beverage credit to use at any of the six
5.6 km (3,4 mi) lagoon of crystal-clear
is a an over-water seclusion for up to 14
lagoon. The resort masterpiece wows its
unique restaurants and bars. For the
waters with uninterrupted Indian Ocean
adults and 8 children. A playground of
guests with breathtaking surroundings,
active-minded, guests will have unlimited
views. Soneva Jani is also among A-list
5 ultrachic villas, all with private pools.
top-notch facilities, amazing diving and
use
celebrities’ private vacation getaway spot
Features
snorkeling, and a myriad of relaxation
(excluding
1. Niyama Private Islands Maldives slip right into the ocean from the deck of guests, the experience includes daily and game-changing hotel is fringed by
private
chef,
2
dedicated
Thakurus (butlers), a housekeeper and complimentary
diversions,
including
options.
sunset cruise, private barbecue and
4. Nautilus Maldives
movie under the stars, and island
Located in the Baa Atoll, The Nautilus
drumming night.
is home to 26 beach and ocean abodes
2. Kudadoo Maldives Private Island
situated like private residences in one of the Maldives’ most picturesque locales. You don’t need to occupy every one of
Kudadoo’s 15 Japanese-style overwater
them; just luxuriate in knowing that you
villas are situated along a horseshoe-
and your guests are the only ones allowed
shaped boardwalk that originates on
to do so. You’ll be attended to by a private
the resort’s small, main island. Each
butler—there is one assigned to each
features an open floor plan; a zen-like al
ocean dwelling—while the property’s five-
fresco bathroom area with a shower and
star dining is described as “unscripted”
bathtub; and a large, outdoor living area
and “about liberating the palate;” even
with a private swimming pool and slip-
the menus are mere suggestions, offered
right-in access to the turquoise water
as “inspiration only.”
of
non-motorized diving)
watersports
offered
at
the
in Maldives.
28 AWARDS/ LISTINGS / FEATURES
10 RESORTS FOR AN EXCITING FAMILY GETAWAY IN MALDIVES Family holidays are growing rapidly.
has a children’s game room that is fully
According to a research conducted by
equipped with fun games and activities
Agoda, seven out of 10 families globally
for teens. From a dart board to teen-
take at least two-family vacations a year.
sized snooker tables, Meeru Island has
Maldives has become popular among
everything to keep kids entertained.
family holidaymakers in recent years. We have rounded up the 10 family friendly
3. Kurumba Maldives
resorts for you to visit in Maldives post
Kurumba Maldives has been recognized
COVID-19.
as 2017’s Best Luxury Family Beach
1. Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi
Resort in the world by the World Luxury Hotel Awards. The resort offers family
Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi is located
room options for families of ages and
on its own private island (Lhohifushi),
sizes. The Majaa Kids club at Kurumba
only a 25-minute speedboat ride from
Maldives offers variety of supervised
the airport, making it one of the most
activities for kids of all ages include
accessible resorts in the Maldives. The
painting, puzzles, and movies, as well
resort offers variety of activities for kids
as a few outdoor activities such as fish
and families including kids’ playground,
feeding.
children’s pool, indoor and outdoor activities for kids. Moreover, the resort
4. Bandos Maldives
is one of the best surf holiday resorts in
Located just 7 km away from Velana
Maldives, offering surfing and other water
International Airport, Bandos Maldives is
crab racing, pirate hat making and many
center for teenagers. The resort also has
sports for teens.
among the best resort in Maldives family
more. The resort also has a two-bedroom
a kid’s pool, offers kids menu and has
holidays . The resort has kids club named
Family Beach Villas available with private
dedicated areas in restaurants for kids.
“Kokko Club” which offers Kids’ an
pools.
2. Meeru Island Resort & Spa
9. Kuramathi Maldives
Meeru island resort & spa is one is one of
indoor nursery and outdoor playground
the top-rated family resorts in Maldives.
with a wide range of daily activities for
6. SAii Lagoon Maldives
Meeru offers a wide range of family offers
kids of all ages to choose from. Moreover,
SAii Lagoon Maldives offers a wide variety
finest family resorts with its dedication
for families along with kid’s facilities
resort offers family rooms which can
of fun and educational activities for kids
to providing an exciting holiday for the
with many fun activities for children’s
accommodate up to 2 extra beds for kids.
of all ages. Kids facilities includes three
entire family. Kids club at Kuramathi
outdoor and three indoor areas, including
offers age-appropriate fun experiences
a family room where adults and guardians
for the kids of all ages. A wide range of
and families. The resort has an indoor
Kuramathi is amongst Maldives one of the
playroom, where children can spend
5. Dusit Thani Maldives
their time building towers, making art,
Dusit Thani Maldives has a kids club
are welcome to join the fun. An activity
outdoor and indoor activities is organized
playing with soft toy friends and sliding
providing supervised activities for kids
room and a playroom are kids-only zones,
for kids of 3 to 12 years including many
onto soft mats. Moreover, the resort also
such as face painting, treasure hunts,
fostering a sense of children having their
activities such as nature walks, treasure
own space to create and grow.
hunts, beach activities, as well as marine
7. Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort
life education in conjunction with the resort’s Eco Centre.
10. Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Villa which is ideal for families with kids, Spa The resort offers two Bedroom Family as there is a second bedroom for the
Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa is
children and parents can have ultimate
another gorgeous resort to visit in the
privacy during their holiday. Anantara
Maldives with family. The luxury resort
Dhigu’s kids club is open to children from
located in southern end of Maldives offers
the age of three, offers variety of fun and
variety of options for families traveling
educational activities for kids of all ages.
with kids. Kids club welcomes kids aged
Kids meals.
4-12 and provides exciting activities for
8. The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi
kids such as jungle club where the kids can meet animals and retails. The resort
The resort offers exciting activities for
also offers a range of indoor and outdoor
kids of all ages. Which includes kids’ spa
games, fitness activities, arts and crafts
treatments, Indoor recreation center with
for kids.
board games, PS games, library and game
AWARDS/ LISTINGS / FEATURES 29
TOP 10 MALDIVIAN RESORTS FOR INDIAN HOLIDAYMAKERS 2. Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, the Maldives
India is now one of the fastest growing
bedroom villa with dock for your yacht.
outbound
The Kedarnath and Simmba actress was
tourism
markets
in
world. While Maldives made record by welcoming 1.7 million tourists in 2019,
Escape the stress and chaos of everyday
Vadoo possesses its own exotic reef teeming with vibrant aquatic flora and fauna. Awarded as the World’s Leading
life at the luxurious Taj Exotica Resort &
Indian market took the second place
Spa in Maldives. The resort features 64
eve.
among the top 10 markets in 2019. So
sea-facing villas and suites that strike a
for Indian holidaymakers to enjoy post pandemic.
1. Heritance Aarah Heritance Aarah is a premium allinclusive all-villa resort consisting of 150 villas including 26 intimate luxury duplex
to pool beach villas, family beach villas and family pool beach villas. Indian
Water Villa retreat at the World Travel
fine balance between luxury and nature. 7. Furaveri Maldives
Awards in 2010, Adaaran Prestige Vadoo
Lounge by the infinity pool, read in a
All set with 33 newly built villas and
is a luxurious Maldives Island resort
hammock as you look out at the sea or
additional upgrades, the resort is re-
that stands out amongst the best. The
simply gaze at the stars at nighttime. For
branded into a four-star deluxe property
list of indulgences that awaits you at
a more adventurous trip, go on a wildlife
to be known as Furaveri Maldives. The
our Maldives Island resort can only be
spotting expedition, snorkel among the
resort is a tropical 23-hectare coral
matched by the captivating lushness of
coral reefs or scuba dive to explore the
island, Furaveri is situated in the exotic
the surroundings.
diverse marine life.
Raa Atoll, about 151 km north of the
ocean suites, 56 sunset ocean villas and 68 land villas ranging from beach villas
capital city, Male’. Famous Bollywood
3. Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives
actress Karishma Tanna and Indian
of sun, sea and sand, and offer the more discerning travelers the opportunity to
Grand Park Kodhipparu houses 120 villas, each of which comes with a private pool
Furaveri Maldives.
Grover, Mouni Roy and Tara Sutaria were
and net floating above the water. Each
indulge their sense of adventure, love of
of the 120 villas and communal areas at 8. Innahura Maldives Resort the resort have been carefully designed
Crown
&
Champa’s
Latest
life, fun, discovery and wellbeing, within a Resort
uniquely captivating environment with its
Innahura Maldives Resort opened on
own distinctive identity, and significance.
6th March 2019 with 78 bungalows
Fushifaru Maldives’ 49 Beach and Water
including 33 Sunset Beach Bungalows
Villas merge quintessential Maldivian
and 45 Sunrise Beach Bungalows, with
design and architecture with modern
four designed as adjacent bungalows for
aesthetics.v
families. The island’s beach are perfect for honeymooners, and families planning a long overdue get-together.
by renowned hospitality experts Hirsch Bedner Associates and draw inspiration
5. Sun Island Resort & Spa Located on Nalaguraidhoo Island in
from the natural beauty of the Maldives
the South Ari Atoll, Sun Island Resort
its marine life and unique local craft
is a popular holiday destination in the
and culture. Guestrooms are light and
Maldives offering great chances to see
contemporary with a rustic feel featuring
whale sharks and manta rays throughout
timber flooring, handmade carpets and
the year. This is the biggest resort in the
textured walls.
Maldives and its scale comes with an
4. Raffles Maldives Meradhoo
unmatchable array of facilities along with very high value for costs.
At the southern end of the Maldives, in the crystal waters of the Indian Ocean, lies Raffles Maldives Meradhoo. This uniquely
6. LUX* North Male Atoll LUX* North Male Atoll houses 67 two-
idyllic resort brings the legendary service
story villas with private pools, an over-
of Raffles, host to the well-traveled since
water spa, tennis and beach volleyball
1887, to Gaafu Alifu, one of the world’s
court,
largest and most remote natural atolls.
are 15 one-bedroom beach villas, 46
Indian actors Vatsal Sheth and Ishita Dutta
overwater
celebrated their anniversary at Raffles
beach residences, one LUX Beach retreat
Maldives Meradhoo last November.
3 bedroom villa, and one overwater 3
and
four villas,
restaurants. four
There
two-bedroom
Fushifaru presents an island experience like no other, to go beyond the confines
celebrities Bipasha Basu, Karan Singh
earlier this year.
10. Fushifaru Maldives
television actor Pearl V Puri were spotted enjoying their vacation in the Maldives at
spotted vacationing at Heritance Aarah
As the gateway to the South Atolls,
at LUX* North Male Atoll to spend some quality time with her family on new years
we compiled the top 10 Maldivian resorts
. Adaaran Prestige Vadoo
30 AWARDS/ LISTINGS / FEATURES
KANUHURA MALDIVES ACHIEVES FORBES TRAVEL GUIDE 5 STAR AWARD
Kanuhura Maldives was listed alongside
India, Jordan, the Maldives, Mauritius,
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda
New Zealand, Russia, Saudi Arabia etc.
Huraa and St. Regis Maldives Vommuli
Forbes Travel Guide is the global authority
Resort in Maldives.
on
luxury
hospitality.
Professional
inspectors travel the world to assess To
uncover
properties,
the
most
Forbes
outstanding
Travel
Guide’s
incognito inspectors check into a hotel
hotels, restaurants, and spas based on 900 objective standards that determine their coveted annual Star Ratings.
for a minimum of two nights, posing as ordinary guests and paying their own
Kanuhura Island Resort & Spa, Maldives
way. The ratings tabulate 75 percent of
is an indigenous and elegant 5 star 100-
a hotel’s score based on its service, while
room hotel with a contemporary feel
the remaining 25 percent is determined
and stylish service, located on Lhaviyani
by the quality of its facilities.
atoll to the northeast of the Maldives in the Indian Ocean, slim oval island,
The
inspectors’
main
highlights
for
one kilometre long and 200 metres
Kanuhura Maldives include Kanuhura’s
wide. Travel is by seaplane, around 40
wide range of activities like the Maldivian
minutes from the International Airport
Warrior Workout, scuba diving or night
at the Maldives capital, Male’. With two
fishing. He has also appreciated the
beautiful neighboring islets, Kanuhura is
Kokaa Wellness Retreat and Spa, with
a unique and very private hideaway with a
its five signature services and multi-day
wide range of facilities, bars, restaurants,
wellness journeys as well as the sandy
activities and sports. Close by are some
white shores of Masleggihura all to
of the world’s best diving sites.
yourself (the smallest of the three islands Kanuhura Maldives has received the
Kanuhura Maldives was acclaimed for
of Kanuhura) for a picnic or private day
“Forbes Travel Guide 5 Star Award”.
its “bohemian feel with whitewashed
at the beach.
This award is the highest recognition
villas adorned with funky art and Iru
of the resort’s dedication to service
bar’s beaded swings and beach teepee”.
Forbes Travel Guide ventured to 16
excellence, commitment and a true sense
Maldives made a splashy debut on the
countries—Antigua,
of hospitality.
list, picking up six of the highest awards.
Cambodia, Egypt, Fiji, French Polynesia,
the
Bahamas,
JOALI MALDIVES FEATURED AMONG BEST ECOINITIATIVES IN HOSPITALITY JOALI Maldives is paving the way for eco-
with its focus on nature, sustainability,
friendly luxury travel. The resort’s Reef
and preserving and protecting the rich
Restoration Project has been named as a
natural environment of the region. At
legend awards honoree for eco initiatives
JOALI Maldives, on-site Marine Biologist
by Departures Magazine.
Samantha
Reynolds
is
leading
the
hotel’s Reef Restoration Project. For this Departure Magazine’s Best Eco-Initiates
project, Reynolds grows coral at JOALI
in
by
Maldives’ underwater nursery for nine to
assessing the luxury hotels and resorts
12 months, then transplants the coral to
that are keen to do their part to inspire
an underwater snorkel trail accessible to
conservation initiatives in their local
JOALI guests. Guests are encouraged to
communities. These hotels are reported
take part in the growing and transplanting
to be working tirelessly to preserve
process, and snorkelers benefit from
the region’s natural beauty, by finding
the underwater beauty this restoration
innovative ways to reduce waste, and
initiative is producing. Set on the picture-
reuse and conserve resources. They are
perfect
not only implementing new eco-initiatives,
Maldives is comprised of 73 private beach
but educating their staff, travelers, and
and over-water villas and residences,
members of the community on best
each of which showcase how luxury travel
preservation practices. Opened in 2018,
and sustainability can go hand-in-hand
JOALI Maldives is leading the way for
with impeccably stylish design.
Hospitality
2020
is
selected
eco-friendly luxury travel in the Maldives
Muravandhoo
Island,
JOALI
AWARDS/ LISTINGS / FEATURES
31
COMO MAALIFUSHI AMONG BEST PRIVATE BEACH VACATIONS FOR POST-LOCKDOWN LUXURY TRAVEL COMO Maalifushi has been listed among
Shambhala Spa sounds pretty heavenly.
the best private beach vacations for post-
Eight private treatment pavilions float
lockdown luxury travel. This was revealed
above the water, and it is truly heaven on
by luxury travel operator Black Tomato,
earth set against a backdrop of one of the
who recently shared some predictions for
most inspiring settings I can imagine,” he
travel in late 2020 and 2021.
further added.
“We’ve seen a notable increase in
COMO Maalifushi is the only resort
bookings in Maldives, and one of the
to open in the Maldives’ Thaa Atoll,
best secluded beach respites is COMO
nestled in the archipelago’s southern
Maalifushi, a pioneer in reimagining truly
reaches. The resort stands apart with
authentic wellness travel,” explained Co-
its
founder of Black Tomato, Tom Marchant.
the spirit of the Indian Ocean and the
“The in-house surf instructors take
barefoot chic of a COMO private island
guests to the nearby deserted reefs for
resort. The luxuries are all there, with a
private sessions on the best waves in the
COMO Shambhala spa, world-class yoga
Maldives, and the dive masters do the
facilities and exceptional cuisine along
same under the surface. And right now
with the Maldives’ vibrant marine life.
a relaxing treatment at the overwater
“TRIPS/FLIGHTS TO MALDIVES” AMONG MOST GOOGLED PHRASES DURING PANDEMIC With most travel on lockdown until
The information is based on data collected
further notice, the best people can do to
from top U.S. travel searches on Google
cure their wanderlust is plan or window-
from April 1 to May 11.
shop for future trips online. Maldives was also crowned as the most Hence, it’s no surprise that some of the
searched destination on Google in the US
most searched for phrases on search
in 2019.
engine giant Google is about Maldives. According to Google, “flights to Maldives”
According to UK’s leading celebrity news
and “trips to Maldives” are among the
site Hello Magazine, Maldives is among
most searched for topics during the
the 8 travel destinations celebrities will
COVID-19 pandemic so far.
likely to book post lockdown.
understated
style,
encapsulating
32 AWARDS/ LISTINGS / FEATURES
TOP 20 LOCAL ISLANDS TO VISIT IN MALDIVES Maldives tourism industry has been dominated
by
high-end
resorts
for
1. V.Keyodhoo Located in Vaavu atoll , the island is
decades. However, in 2009 with the
popular for those looking to spend their
permission to operate guesthouses in the
holidays on fishing excursions out in
local islands, it brought a revolution to the
the open sea. So expect to find several
tourism industry of Maldives. Since then
guesthouses that cater specifically to this
local island tourism sector has been one
group of tourists. However, the island
of the fastest-growing sectors in Maldives
also offers the usual water sports and
tourism industry.
other excursions you’d expect from a Maldivian island. Professional divers will
Here are the top 20 local island tourism
also find a lot to like about this island
destinations in Maldives to visit post
as there are several fully equipped dive
pandemic.
centers located in Keyodhoo.
7. V.Thinadhoo
Famous surf points Chickens & Cokes
Thinadhoo in Vaavu atoll is a beautiful
are two world-class surf spots near the
island surrounded by sandy beaches and
island. There several guesthouses and
a lush house reef. Referred to as “Mas
water sports centers available in the
Thinadhoo” (Fish Thinadhoo) in ancient
island.
times due to the fantastic amount of marine life that call the island’s lagoon
13. B.Fehendhoo
home, Thinadhoo is now a favorite spot
Fehendhoo is one of the least populated
for recreational fishing, snorkelling, and
islands in Baa Atoll of Maldives. This
scuba diving.
makes it perfect for travellers looking for quiet comfort while enjoying the beauty
8. Fuvahmulah One of the most famous islands in
huge stretch of beach, the house reef and
Maldives for its beauty and historical
a small picnic island about fifty meters
importance, Fuvahmulah is the second
away from the pier that is perfect for
nearest atoll to the Equator and the first
romantic getaways.
atoll in the Southern Hemisphere. Being
2. V.Fulidhoo
‘Green Leaf Award’ in the year 2014 and
The guesthouses in Fulidhoo offers
has been recognized as an environmental
everything
role-model island in Maldives.
that
the
resorts
of
the
Maldives is famous for but at a much more affordable price. The island is
5. Aa. Rasdhoo
surrounded by a large white sandy beach
Located in Alif Alif Atoll, Rasdhoo is
and the diversity of marine life you’ll meet
the capital island of the administrative
even during a short snorkeling excursion
division and has many guesthouses with
in the surrounding turquoise lagoon is
varying degrees of comfort and amenities
mind-bending!
available. The island is very popular with divers due to its close proximity to several
3. K.Maafushi
famous dive sites. Honeymooners and
The birthplace of the guesthouse industry
couples will also love the picnic island
in the Maldives, Kaafu Atoll Maafushi is
and sandbank excursions.
about 45 minutes away from Male’ via speedboat and now boasts over a dozen
6. Laamu Gan
beautiful guesthouses and offers guests
Gan is the longest island of the Maldives.
an assortment of activities and facilities
It is divided in wards, the northernmost
that would rival any Maldivian resort.
of which is called Thundi in middle Mathimadhu and at the end Mukurimagu.
4. Aa.Ukulhas
The
four
islands
Gan,
Maandhoo,
Located in Alif Alif Atoll close to the most
Kadhdhoo and Fonadhoo which are
northern boundary, Ukulhas is an oval-
linked with causeways stretches up to
shaped island famed for its cleanliness
about 18 kilometers in length making up
and well -maintained waste management
the longest lengthen of dry land in the
system. The island was awarded the
Maldives.
of Maldives. The island is famous for its
a one-island atoll itself , Fuvahmulah has
14. B.Maalhos
many distinctive features which make the
Located in Baa atoll, a protected biosphere
island unique.
reserve, the island is most notable for the rich cultural and traditional activities still
9. Addu City. Hithadhoo
practiced in the island. Maalhos is popular
Addu city is the second-largest urban
even among locals as a must-visit island
area in Maldives in terms of population
during holidays as a lot of cultural events
and Hithadhoo is largest island among the
are organized by the residents every year.
several connected islands . Addu City has several guesthouses that offer a variety of
15. B.Dharavandhoo
services and unique attractions to visit .
Home to one of the several domestic
Addu nature part is must place to visit in
airports
Addu city.
Dharavandhoo is known as the hub
located
around
Maldives,
of local tourism in Baa Atoll. As such,
10. Adh.Dhigurah
the island’s economy focuses mainly
Dhigurah, (meaning long island) is in
on
Alifu Dhaal atoll, about 20 minutes by
offers several guesthouses and various
plane from the capital, Male’. The island
excursions designed to get the most out
is narrow but 3 km in length which is
of your stay in the UNESCO Biosphere
considered to be a reasonably long island
Reserve of Maldives.
in the Maldives. With more than 3 km
tourism
related
activities,
and
of natural white sandy beach, it is also
16. Aa. Thoddoo
considered to be a beautiful inhabited
To most locals, the island is famous as
island.
the “island of watermelons”. This is no surprise as a large percentage of the
11. K.Thulusdhoo
beautiful island of Thoddoo is composed
Thulusdhoo is the capital of Kaafu Atoll,
of farms used to cultivate the fruit
located just 28 km north of Male. The
through- out the year. However, the farms
island is popular for among wave surfers.
on the island are a secondary attraction
AWARDS/ LISTINGS / FEATURES 33 to the tourists flocking in droves to enjoy
base by Hummingbird helicopter service
cropped up on the island. Curious about
surrounded by a beautiful lagoon just
the private beach area regarded by many
and the helipad used by the company still
the statue of a pot (known as a ‘runbaa’
makes the allure even more potent.
as among the most beautiful beaches in
exists.
by locals) at the entrance of the island?
the country.
17. Aa.Bodufolhudhoo
18. Adh.Dhangethi Dhangethi is well-known for its cultural
Be sure to ask locals about the local folk
20. K.Dhiffushi
story behind it. It is an interesting legend.
Located 36,6 km northeast of Male, the capital of Maldives, Dhiffushi is becoming
A relatively obscure little island located
heritage, including traditional handicraft
19. Aa.Himandhoo
in North Ari Atoll, Bodufolhudhoo got
and carpentry. To cater to the local
Himandhoo has become very popular as
attractions of the island are the beautiful
some time in the spotlight recently after
island tourism , various tourism related
a beautiful vacation destination for locals
bikini beach area that visitors love and
becoming the first island in Maldives to
services such as water sports facilities,
as well as tourists in recent years. Having
the clear turquoise lagoon that’s perfect
ban single use plastic bags. During the
scuba diving center and speedboat rental
easy access to several popular dive spots
for snorkeling and other types of water
1990s the island was used as a helicopter
services for guest excursions has also
in addition to the white sandy beaches
sports.
popular among tourist. Some of the major
PARADISE ISLAND RESORT AMONG BOOKING.COM’S TOP WISH-LISTED PLACES Paradise Island Resort has been listed
listed types of places to stay for global
among three of the top wish-listed places
travelers are hotels and apartments.
to stay, data from Booking.com reveals.
Hotels account for 40% of all properties
Travel might be on pause in these
wish listed by travelers globally over the
unprecedented times, but Booking.com
last two months, and apartments account
data says that this hasn’t stopped people
for 20% of all properties wish-listed
across the world from dreaming about its
globally.
possibilities. Three of the top wish-listed places to stay Delving into the millions of wish lists
include the stunning Five Jumeirah Village
created by would-be travelers on its
– a world-class resort located in the heart
platform over the last two months,
of luxurious Dubai, the beautiful Paradise
with properties wish-listed across over
Island Resort & Spa which is located at
100,000 different destinations since the
the exclusive white sand beaches of the
and comfort. Located at North Male’
amenities, guests can choose between
start of March, Booking.com shares the
Maldives, and Amora Ubud Boutique
Atoll, just 20 minutes speedboat ride from
garden villas, superior beach bungalows,
top destinations and places to stay on
Villas, where you can wake up on the edge
Velana International Airport and part of
water villas, haven villas, haven suites
peoples’ minds as they plan for when the
of a hilltop overlooking the breathtaking
the Villa Hotels and Resorts collection.
and ocean suites. All are either directly
time is right to travel again. Dreaming
Balinese jungle.
The
beautifully
on or a short distance walk from the
furnished rooms to choose between, each
iconic white sandy beaches and tranquil crystal waters.
about a change in scenery and the
resort
offers
282
opportunity to enjoy a stay experience
Paradise Island Resort & Spa is an award-
offering a truly incomparable experience.
outside of their own home, the most wish-
winning destination epitomizing luxury
Each beautifully designed with modern
MALDIVES - TOP SEARCHED DESTINATION FOR U.S. TRAVELERS
The most searched for destination in the
3. Fiji (9,900)
US is Maldives, which received 18,100
4. Costa Rica (9,900)
searches during the stay-at-home order
5. Bahamas (8,100)
as a result of COVID-19. This was
6. Mexico (6,600)
revealed by InsureMyTrip who reviewed
7. Jamaica (6,600)
data using Google search trends.
8. Aruba (6,600) 9. Thailand (5,400)
The Maldivian archipelago of over 1,000
10. Italy (4,400)
islands is popular for its remoteness, tranquil beaches and luxury properties.
“Flights to Maldives” and “trips to
The state with the highest contribution
Maldives” was also among the most
of searches for Maldives is California,
Googled phrases during the COVID-19
followed by Georgia, New York and
pandemic.
Pennsylvania. The destination is planning to reopen July 1.
In addition to this UK’s leading celebrity news
site
Hello
Magazine
revealed
The full list is as follows:
that Maldives is among the 8 travel
1. Maldives (18,100)
destinations celebrities will likely to book
2. Greece (14,800)
post lockdown.
34 ACCOMMODATION
ANANTARA HOTELS, RESORTS & SPAS LAUNCHES DIGITAL EGIFT OFFER
Anantara
Hotels,
Resorts
&
Spas
and personal with elephants and spend
announces the launch of an unmissable
a night in the unique Jungle Bubbles at
eGift offer providing guests time to
Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp
dream of their next escape, anywhere
& Resort in Northern Thailand. Anantara
in the world. The launch of the eGift
is committed to providing guests flexible
offer enables guests to transform their
and convenient experiences at its hotels
wanderlust into tangible travel plans with
and resorts situated in some of the most
an exclusive 30% extra value.
stunning locations around the world. This offer will be available for 30 days ending
Around the world, Anantara Hotels &
on 28th June 2020, eGifts booked during
Resorts are preparing to open their doors
this period will be valid for 12 months.
wide and welcome back guests, so it’s the perfect time to plan that long awaited
As the world looks to reopen and many
dream getaway. For a limited time only,
are planning their next long-awaited trip,
Anantara offers guests 30% extra value on
purchasing an eGift offer is the perfect
any eGift.
way to honour a loved one or to celebrate an upcoming special occasion. To find
The eGift offer is applicable for all
out more about the launch of the eGift
Anantara stays, including dining, spas and
offer by Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas
of course Signature Anantara Experiences
visit egiftcard.anantara.com to purchase
at participating hotels & resorts around
and review the full terms & conditions.
the world. From underwater dining at
For
Anantara
Hotels, Resorts & Spas, please visit www.
Kihavah
Maldives
Resort’s
breathtaking SEA Restaurant, to the
more
information
on
Anantara
anantara.com.
spectacular opportunity to get up close
ANGSANA VELAVARU SHARK CONSERVATION PROJECT RECORDS OVER 350 SHARKS, 9 DIFFERENT SPECIES BRUVS are a non-intrusive method
Nilandhe Atoll in the Maldives, and just a
for observing underwater life and are
40-minute seaplane journey from Velana
commonly used to survey sharks. Data
International Airport, Angsana Velavaru
from the undergoing research will be used
(the island known as “Turtle Island” in
to identify important shark habitats and
the local Dhivehi language) is surrounded
assess the effectiveness of the national
by sparkling turquoise waters and ocean
shark fishing ban in Maldives. Findings
views as far as the eye can see. This
will ensure successful outcomes and
luxurious tropical getaway offers 79
ultimately identify social and ecological
private villas, all with beach frontage,
indicators important for the sustainable
and a cluster of 34 InOcean Villas, the
management
of
first standalone collection of water villas
Perched
an
on
shark
populations.
expansive
private
lagoon in the virtually untouched South
in the Maldives perched one kilometre from the main island.
ACCOMMODATION 35
INDULGE IN HUMBLE LUXURY AT GRAND PARK KODHIPPARU, MALDIVES Explore the ultimate tropical island dream
collection of 120 idyllic beach-front pool
pancake of white sand, embark on a 360°
We all crave new vistas, scenic walks, a
and indulge yourself in humble luxury at
villas, breathtaking overwater villas and
barefoot island adventure. The resort also
spot of pampering and a dip in the sea.
Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives – a
spacious two-bedroom villas. Whats
boasts three restaurants, various outdoor
In short, we’re ready for a bit of escapism
dazzling hotel with superb facilities in
most unreal about the overwater villas at
excursions. Enjoy a refreshing dip into the
from our everyday lives. Just a mere 20
one of the world’s most beautiful spots.
this paradise is the overwater net floating
45-metre long infinity pool and soak up
minutes’ speedboat ride from capital
Experience paradise on earth. A luxurious
above the water. Get a chance to sleep
some sunshine. If that’s not enough, head
Male’, why not head over to Grand Park
one-island-one-resort destination, Grand
right underneath the stars and wonder in
over to the award winning spa to let go of
Kodhipparu, Maldives?
Park Kodhipparu, Maldives features a
to your dreams. Positioned on a perfect
your troubles and enjoy some tranquility.
VILLA HOTELS AND RESORTS TO LAUNCH ‘CLEANSTAY@ VILLA INITIATIVE’
and guests. “The health and safety of our
•
Implement
guests have always been our priority. We
standards,
have continuously maintained an excellent
measures.
standard of hygiene in all our resorts.
•
new with
staff
hygiene
mandated
PPE
Apply stringent disinfecting measures
Given the impact of COVID-19, we have
for F&B, Spa, sports, and recreation
upgraded our standards to ensure the
facilities.
health and safety of guests throughout
•
their experience in our resorts. When the Maldives re-opens for tourism, Villa
Recommend
social
distancing
between guests and staff •
Implement continuous staff training
Resorts will be providing guests with a
in hygiene and cleanliness standards
renewed assurance of cleanliness and
and protocols
safety,” a statement by the resort read. The
CleanStay@Villa
initiative
•
will
housed with doctors and required
implement SOPs for end-to-end hygiene checks from arrival, transfer to departure.
facilities •
It includes, but not limited to, SOPs in the following:
Ensure resorts’ medical clinics are
Use hospital-grade disinfectants in cleaning protocols
•
In case of need, provide isolation rooms at each resort
•
•
Disinfect all exposed surfaces on lounges and transport facilities for
Villa Hotels & Resorts is one of the leading
arrival and departure.
resort chains in the Maldives operating
Check and log temperature for
five exclusive island resorts: Paradise
On a bid to ensure health and safety
of their in-house doctors. The initiative
all guests and staff on arrival and
Island Resort, Sun Island Resort, Royal
for guests, Villa Hotels and Resorts is
will follow the WHO and Maldives Health
departing.
Island Resort, Holiday Island Resort and
launching its CleanStay@Villa initiative.
Protection Agency (HPA) guidelines. This
Identify high touch areas in guest
Fun Island Resort.
CleanStay@Villa initiative will be built
initiative will undergo regular reviews
villas and modify cleaning protocols
on the Villa Hotels and Resort’s existing
based on evolving industry standards and
to
high standards and under the guidance
feedback from the group’s travel partners
thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
•
ensure
that
such
areas
are
36 ACCOMMODATION
TAJ HOTELS LAUNCHES TAJNESS – A COMMITMENT RESTRENGTHENED recommendations in its hotels and across
All guest facing employees like baggage
the organization in accordance with
handlers, valets and guest relations
guidelines published by the World Health
and back room staff, like housekeeping
Organization (WHO), Food Safety and
and engineering, have been adequately
Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and
trained on social distancing norms as
the Government of India. IHCL has also
well as the latest precautionary hygiene
been working in close consultation with
and safety guidelines. In addition, all
its longstanding global partners, who are
associates and vendors will also be
pioneers in providing smart sustainable
provided
solutions for cleanliness and hygiene for
Protective Equipment (PPE) and all work
the hospitality industry.
areas will be disinfected regularly. For
with
appropriate
Personal
more detailed guidelines on the standards The new experience, which begins from
for safety and hygiene from pre- arrival to
the moment the guest puts foot in a hotel
check-out please see the annexure.
South
sense of responsibility and care. The
car until alighting from one on their way
company,
challenges we face are unprecedented,
back home, has been carefully thought
With its genuine sense of warmth and
announced that hotels under its brands
but we believe the best way for us to
through. Mandatory temperature checks
care being integral to the Company’s
Taj, Vivanta, SeleQtions and Ginger are
demonstrate our commitment is to give
will be conducted with all guests and
DNA; IHCL and its brands – Taj, Vivanta,
implementing enhanced precautionary
our guests and associates the assurance
associates entering the hotels. Check-
SeleQtions and Ginger stand prepared
measures
of exacting standards of safety and
in and check-out formalities will be
to welcome guests back to experience
opening, to give greater confidence to
hygiene.
our
processed digitally as far as possible in
the hallmark Tajness with a commitment
guests. Some of these measures include
already stringent protocols as we look
order to have minimum contact. Common
restrengthened.
thermal screening of all employees
forward to welcoming our guests to
and high-touch areas of hotels like cars,
and
relive the legendary magic of Tajness
lobbies and elevators would witness
The group’s Maldivian properties are: Taj
restrengthened.”
more frequent and industrial strength
Coral Reef Resort & Spa, Maldives and
disinfectants being used as part of an
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives.
Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), Asia’s
largest
in
guests,
hospitality
preparation
intensive
of
hospital
hotels
level
sanitization of its hotels as well as
We
have
augmented
new contactless processes and social distancing measures. “For over a century,
As the country gears up to reopen in various
escalated cleanliness routine. Restaurants
IHCL has been the pioneer and custodian
sectors in a phased manner, IHCL’s hotels
and banquet areas will have fewer tables
of authentic Indian hospitality,” Mr.
have effectively implemented heightened
and all self-serving buffets are suspended.
Puneet Chhatwal, MD & CEO, Indian
hygiene and safety procedures for all
Menus will largely be digital or single
Hotels Company (IHCL) said. “Embedded
guests, employees, partners and vendors.
use, with greater emphasis on wellness-
in our DNA is our commitment to ensure
In preparation of resuming operations,
oriented food sections for healthier meals
the comfort of guests with the greatest
the company has implemented multiple
and greater level of immunity.
ADAARAN CLUB RANNALHI GETS MALDIVES’ FIRST ENOS SYSTEM
The DivePoint dive-centre at Adaaran
Adaaran
Club Rannalhi in South Male’ atoll has
among the best hotels in Maldives and
become the first Maldives operation to
sits exclusively at the tip of the South
invest in ENOS, the electronic rescue and
Male atoll within the exotic collection of
locating system for divers.
islands known as the Maldives. Its unique
Club
Rannalhi
is
featured
location offers access to pristine beaches, The resort got a SeaReq ENOS receiver
excellent scuba diving opportunities and
which is portable so can be moved
a relaxed environment with easy access
between boats. With antennae mounted
to the capital city of Male’. Bask in the
on top of a diving dhoni, the dive-centre’s
golden sun and frolic on the soft sands
crew will be enabled to receive alerts
as you experience friendly Maldivian
over long distances should the sometimes
hospitality and explore the rich tropical
strong
wonders of a vibrant island nation during
currents
or
sudden
weather
changes characteristic of the Maldives result in a diver separation. The
crew
have
been
personally
trained by Karl Hansmann, owner of the manufacturer Seareq, which was established in 2003, and inventor of the ENOS system.
your stay at this inviting Maldives hotel.
ACCOMMODATION 37
VAKKARU MALDIVES LAUNCHES ‘VAKKARE’ In preparation for reopening, Vakkaru
you an intimate slice of paradise, where
shall be observed. Vakkaru Maldives will
local authorities’ requirements, the resort
Maldives
elevated
you can enjoy a safe and happy holiday in
also encourage many activities, such as
added.
hygiene procedure called ‘Vakkare’. The
the privacy of your own island home. The
diving, excursions, fishing and snorkeling,
resort’s dedicated team are being trained
one proviso being that all travelers have
which can be privately enjoyed with
“At
to deliver the most hygienic attention
to be fit for travel and entry into Maldives.
limited contacts.
committed to the joy of travel and
is
launching
an
possible from the moment they arrive
Vakkaru
Maldives,
we
remain
delivering exceptional experiences to our
into their ‘Kare’, providing Vakkaru
All elevated practices of hygiene and
To give guests complete peace of mind,
discerning guests in a safe and healthy
Maldives’ guests with the confidence that
sanitation shall be reinforced in all
all team-members of resort will be going
environment,” a statement by the resort
they will enjoy an exceptional vacation
the public areas, production outlets
through necessary medical checks prior
read. “You can be reassured of our
in the most-safe surroundings. Maldives
and housekeeping, as reported by the
to being back on duty. In the event of an
commitments towards the health and
already offers one of the safest locations
resort. Proactive sanitization and social
emergency, their certified Resort Doctor
safety of our guests and team. Should you
in the world, owing to the natural and
distancing
in
has all the necessary equipment and
require any further information, please
unique concept of one island, one resort.
restaurants, buffets and other common
accessories in place, together with an
do not hesitate to contact me concerning
At Vakkaru Maldives, they are promising
areas such as the gym, pool and beach
isolation room, in line with the WHO and
this important matter.”
Fringed with exquisite powder beaches
individually built beach bungalows, 20
and
water bungalows and 20 superior water
measures,
particularly
EXPLORE ANGIRI RESORTS FOR EXQUISITE MALDIVIAN BEAUTY
lagoons,
Angiri
resorts
offers
travelers a chance to reminisce unique Maldivian beauty through not one, but
bungalows.
4 resorts: Dreamland Maldives, Angaga
Thulhagiri Island, Maldives
Island Resort & Spa, Thulhagiri Island,
Experience
Maldives and Safari Island Maldives.
hospitality, at a setting with traditional
Dreamland The Unique Sea & Lake Resort Spa
the
unique
Maldivian
features of thatched rooms and sandy floors to mark every footstep of your way. Thulhagiri Island is surrounded
Dip into the first ever freshwater lake
by a crystal clear lagoon encompassing
with a Bio-top Pool (1st ever in Asia) at
spectacular tropical marine life. The
Dreamland, The Unique Sea & Lake Resort
island is about 220 meters with just 13
Spa. This picturesque lake is surrounded
km from the airport, only 20 minutes by
by 20m high mangrove trees on one side
speedboats.
and 20m high palm trees on the other side. The fresh water lake combined with
Safari Island Maldives
rich vegetation makes the resort a one of
Safari Island is surrounded by sandy
a kind unique gem in Maldives.
beaches, crystal clear water lagoon and a
Angaga Island Resort & Spa
house reef with many attractive dive points which attracts snorkelers and divers. The
Angaga is a tropical oasis surrounded by
island has its own luxury safari boats
beautiful sandy beach, crystal clear water
for the use of in house guests for free of
lagoon and beautiful living house reef
charge. Take advantage of a wealth of
with colorful corals and many different
unrivaled services and amenities at this
types of species. The resort offers 50
Maldives resort.
38 ACCOMMODATION
CROWN & CHAMPA RESORTS – SHAPING MALDIVES TOURISM SCENERY, ONE RESORT AT A TIME Crown & Champa Resorts (CCR), one of
Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa
home to the world’s largest all-glass
Male’. Good quality and affordable rates
Welcome to the divers’ paradise famed
undersea restaurant, located 5.8 meters
make it a popular choice for leisure and
offer picturesque discovery of Maldives
for snorkling and whale shark spotting.
below the lagoon.
business travelers. It is a short walk to
to travelers and shaping the industry one
Vilandhoo’s
resort at a time. CCR is a trading name
provide the perfect space to relax after
the largest resort groups, continues to
accommodation
options
for a group of resort hotels in Maldives,
Kudadoo Maldives Private Island days filled with ocean adventures. Choose by Hurawalhi
owned and operated by various Maldivian
from the 194 rooms available, each with
Embracing all the hallmarks of exclusivity
and foreign partners, whose common
their own natural island style.
and intimacy, Kudadoo Maldives Private
interest is to work together to achieve better business performance. The group currently operates 9 resorts. Their 10th
Island by Hurawalhi holds the promise
Komandoo Island Resort & Spa
of
pure
freedom.
private
attractions
as
the
National
Museum, Parliament Building and Old Friday Mosque.
Kagi Maldives Spa Island Opening Soon
synonymous
authentic
Kagi Maldives is said to offer a soulful
and latest addition, Kagi Maldives is said
most romantic Maldives’ resorts. Adult
connections, space and time, a place
island experience where equilibrium can
to debut in September 2020.
only, perfect for honeymooners, divers
that redefines the norm ‘freedom re-
be found in its iconic over water spa or
and anyone after romance and relaxation.
imagined’.
in the underwater paradise. At the heart
CCR’s first property, Kuredu Island Resort made its debut on December 1988. The
privacy,
island
tourist
Komandoo is one of the top-rated and
Kuredu Island Resort
with
A
the main shopping area and such popular
Innahura Maldives Resort
Veligandu Island Resort & Spa
of the island will sit Kagi’s 1500-squaremeter spa and wellness hub, complete
Spa,
Innahura takes the quintessential sun, sea
with
resort is a top-rated Maldives resort with
surrounded by a beautiful lagoon, an
and sand elements, add a traditional twist
floating yoga pavilion at its centre. It will
a big variety of accommodation, sports,
excellent house reef and long stretches of
to modern facilities and round it up with a
also house a state-of-the-art gym, two
dining and entertainment options to
white, sandy beach, is the only resort on
generous dose of authentic experiences.
restaurants, three bars, a dive centre and
choose from.
the island of Veligandu, North Ari atoll.
The resort is an affordable 4-star resort,
a house reef.
Veligandu
Island
Resort
&
suitable for families, honeymooners and
Meeru Island Resort & Spa Meeru is a 284 room, 4.5 star-resort,
Hurawalhi Island Resort Hurawalhi
Island
Resort
adventure-seekers looking for a relaxed, Maldives
easy-going Maldivian island.
surrounded by sparkling clear, warm
boasts superbly designed, exclusive and
water in a turquoise lagoon and long
supremely spacious villas on the beach
Champa Central Hotel
stretches of white, sandy beach in north
and over the water, welcoming guests
Champa Central Hotel is a 4-star hotel
Male’ atoll.
above the age of 15. Hurawalhi is also
conveniently located in the centre of
HRS_19-707_TTM_AD_02_PATHED.pdf
1
15/4/19
14:58
an
open-air,
teardrop-shaped
ACCOMMODATION 39
GET READY TO EXPERIENCE “ISLAND HOMES” IN MALDIVES POST PANDEMIC The COVID-19 pandemic has caused
the island, Veli Vilaa was designed to
disruptions
human
offer a unique tropical island experience
activity on the planet. At the moment
to families and friends. It is a spacious
travelling anywhere is out of the question
4-bedroom
for most, even though some countries
beachfront with its own private beach
are cautiously opening their borders.
where you can experience the breath-
However, what you can’t stop people
taking sunset view. This island home
from doing is dreaming of the destinations
is equipped with all necessary water
you will visit once the pandemic is over
sport gears including canoes, fun tubes,
and the world is once again open for
banana boat and a private jet ski. Guests
exploring. Once this happens, Maldives
can also enjoy variety of cuisines from
is ready to offer a fresh concept that you
the in-house menu at a dining area inside
really should experience: Island Homes.
the villa, or even served in a romantic
in
almost
every
bungalow
built
on
the
setting on the beach. Activities available Island Homes offer an excellent setting
range from watersports to excursions that
for families and group retreats who are
could have you swimming with mantas
looking for personal comfort and a fully
one day or chasing dolphins the next.
serviced accommodation. Most Island
as long as possible, before heading back.
strengths and there’s always something
Homes are located in a contained private
The property has such a calming and
Island Homes is a fresh new concept
new brewing in the tourism sector. Island
area (with access to a private beach
magical effect on the senses that guests
for Maldives, famous the world over for
Homes is one such concept. The thought
even!) providing the ultimate in privacy
often despair having to leave. One
its beautiful beaches, the beauty of its
of being cloistered in a luxurious home
with many of the luxuries you’d usually
Serbian family, who arrived before the
underwater world, and a reputation for
with every comfort available while away
expect to find at a Maldivian resort.
pandemic leading to lockdowns all over
being a luxury holiday destination only
from home is definitely something many
the world, chose to extend their stay
available to the wealthy. However, after
travelers around the world are yearning to
One of the first such properties to pop
to six weeks once they realized they’d
the first few decades of tourism and with
experience for themselves once Maldives
up in Maldives is the luxurious Veli Vilaa
rather stay and experience the stress-
the introduction of local island tourism,
is open for business post pandemic.
located in Dhiffushi Island. Nestled
free island life, cocooned and sheltered
this is no longer the case. Innovation
amongst the many coconut palms of
from the woes of the world at large for
has been one of the industry’s major
MÖVENPICK RESORT MALDIVES PARTNERS WITH MALDIVES BUSINESS SCHOOL TO PROMOTE HIGHER EDUCATION FOR STAFF Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives
us the first ever resort in Maldives to
has partnered with Maldives Business
partner with Maldives Business School,”
School to promote higher education for
a statement by Mövenpick Resort read.
its staff. This partnership marks the first
“At
resort in the country to partner with a
Maldives, lifelong learning, and a culture
business school to provide exclusive
of continuous improvement plays a huge
opportunities for employees.
role and this partnership will go a long
Movepick
Resort
Kuredhivaru
way in helping our Heartists get the best Resort
out of themselves, both personally and
Kuredhivaru Maldives are entitled to get
professionally” said Cameron Steele, the
free enrollment in Maldives Business
resort’s Executive Assistant Manager.
Employees
of
Mövenpick
School’s degree programmes under this partnership.
Located only 45 minutes travel from Male’, Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru
“We are proud to announce that we have
Maldives is a tropical oasis located in the
joined forces with Maldives Business
undisturbed Noonu Atoll nestled in the
School to promote higher education
northern part of Maldives.
for our employees (heartists!); making
40 ACCOMMODATION
MAAFUSHI – AN ISLAND WITH LUXURY AND TRADITIONS Maafushi is located in South Malé Atoll,
hopping and a trip to a local inhabited
snorkelling with sharks, fishing trips,
a workout or running out of cash while on
approximately 27 nautical miles away
island became a popular excursion
and trips to the virgin sandbanks, all of
vacation.
from the country’s main hub – Velana
allowing
the
which are designed to kick start your day
International Airport. This translates
local culture of the Maldives first-hand.
in a Maldivian setting. Five-star diving
Fret not! Maafushi is the island home to
into a traveling time of about 30 to 40
The island quickly became a popular
centres accredited by PADI – The Diving
an array of high quality ancillary services.
minutes on a speed boat or 1 hour 30
hotspot for such activities and as a result,
Association are at your service to take
Air-conditioned
minutes on a local ferry on a good day,
numerous souvenir shops and beverage
you to the wonderful underwater world,
selling a wide range of international
making the island basically a stone’s
shacks started to sprung throughout to
to showcase the mesmerizing creations
products ranging from branded cosmetics
throw away from the main airport. The
cater to the growing demands of souvenir
of mother nature. Prepare yourself for an
to snacks are found every nook and
name “Maafushi” might sound very exotic
shopping.
exhilarating adventure on the water, with
cranny of the island. A fully fledged gym
a wide variety of watersports available
with the latest equipment welcomes all
tourists
to
experience
to most foreigners, but it simply means
convenience
stores
Big Island in Dhivehi. Maa, meaning
Today, the setting is very different. From
to choose from. All of it available at
tourists without a monthly membership.
“Big” and Fushi, meaning “Island”. Even
humble beginnings, the island has become
reasonable prices; a far cry from the
The Bank of Maldives branch located at
though the island is 1.28 km in length
the pioneer of the Maldivian local tourism
hefty charges of luxury resorts.
the end of the island hosts an ATM which
and 0.26 km in width, with a population
industry, Maafushi could be described
of about 4000 residents, it is considered
as the Maldivian equivalent of Phuket
Strolling along the streets of Maafushi is
eliminating the fear of being caught
big in comparison to most local inhabited
or Bali. The island is the perfect haven
akin to experiencing a real life “Alice in
cashless. Relax comfortably and enjoy
islands in Maldives. Hence, the name.
for budget-friendly tourism. The sights
Wonderland”. Although, you might not
a rewarding sun-tanning session with
of approximately 60 accommodation
see a talking Cheshire cat and trees made
compliments from nature in Maafushi’s
Delving into the history of Maafushi, the
establishments
multi-
out of candy, the natural beauty and
own Bikini Beach – a designated area of
island used to be a traditional fishing
storey luxury four-star hotels to boutique
tourism scene will emanate the feeling of
the beach whereby you are allowed to
village. Back in the day, Maafushi was the
hotels to small scale lodges are scattered
being in a wonderful paradise. Maafushi
wear your bathing suit.
epicentre of a burgeoning fishing trade
throughout the island. These hotels and
proudly boasts a vast stretch of beaches
with skilful fishermen who sold their
guesthouses enable a tourist to obtain a
with white sand. This co-exists in line with
A vacation to the Maldives doesn’t have to
catch to the wealthier residents in Male’.
holistic, authentic Maldivian experience
a breath-taking expanse of the Indian
be limited to luxury water villas or beach
Both the young and old men start their
without blowing a hole in the bank
ocean which exhibits crystal clear waters
bungalows.
day at the crack of dawn, setting off to
account, as the average daily rate is on
in multifarious hues of blue. The pristine
has become a major item to tick off in
sea on their dhonis (fishing vessels) and
the fine lines of USD$50 – USD$100 per
blue skies and crooning birds are all part
bucket lists for every tourist who visits
returning with their hard-earned catch
night. Restaurants serving delectable,
of this tropical escapade. The above-
Maldives. Luxury, serenity, adventure –
around sunset. The womenfolk would
international fare are omni-present in the
mentioned factors are complemented
all at a bargain. Day by day, tourists who
stay back doing their everyday duties and
island. Whether you are craving for a hot
with the positive, friendly and demure
spend their vacation in Maafushi increase
wait for the men to return with their catch
plate of Chinese style seafood noodles,
demeanour of Maafushi residents. It is
tremendously along with their fair share
which they would use for their own meals
or an American style steak with potatoes
customary to receive a friendly smile
of adventures. Let Maafushi be your next
to feed their families. What was left from
or a Baked Lobster, Maafushi has got you
along with a “hello”, “ciao”, “good
holiday destination. Whether your motive
the daily catch would be converted into
covered.
morning/afternoon”, or even a similar
is to relax or to have adventure and fun,
greeting in your own language, as many
you will not be disappointed. It is time
ranging
from
dried and smoked fish, which was also a
accepts major international credit cards,
Today,
visiting
Maafushi
major source of export and income for the
A trip to Maafushi doesn’t leave you
locals in the tourism industry are able to
for you to book your ideal holiday in
island. However, during the 21st century,
confined to spending the days tanning
speak several languages such as Chinese,
Maafushi!
the scene started to change slowly.
yourself on the beach. Several excursion
Italian, French, German and Hindi. It is
Maafushi became a major stopover point
centres with gleaming signboards offer
normal for one to worry about finding
for tourists from nearby resorts, as island
a wide spectrum of activities such as
places to obtain essentials, having to skip
ACCOMMODATION
INTERCONTINENTAL HOTELS GROUP LAUNCHES ‘CLEAN PROMISE’
•
Reception: reduced contact at check-
leading experts, and launching a global
in, touch-less transactions, front-
IHG Clean Promise that gives guests
desk
screens,
sanitized •
•
•
41
key
sanitizer
stations,
greater confidence and protection,” she
cards,
paperless
said. Developed through Ecolab and
checkout.
Diversey, the Way of Clean has now being
Guest Room: visible verification of
expanded with additional COVID-19
sanitized
glassware,
protocols and best practices to reflect the
remote control), reduction of in-
advice of the World Health Organisation,
room furnishings/high-touch items,
Centres for Disease Control & Prevention,
new laundry protocols, use of new
and local public health authorities in
technology.
markets around the world.
items
Public
(e.g.,
Spaces
and
Facilities:
additional deep cleaning of high-
Ms Harwood said future guests could
touch surfaces, social distancing,
expect to see evolved procedures in
“last cleaned” charts, best practices
every area of the hotel. “The perspective
for pools, fitness centres and lounges.
the world has gained from the past few
Food & Beverage: new standards
months will frame the way everyone thinks
and service approach to buffets,
about the ‘next normal’ and, for travellers
banquets, room service and catering.
unleashed back on the world after months of isolation, the most immediate
InterContinental
Hotels
Group
has
Cleanliness Board, which has experts
announced the launch of a “Clean
in operations, health, safety and guest
Promise”, which will be rolled out globally
experience, working external specialists
across its hotels and resorts from June 1.
to define solutions, best practice and
The Group has updated its cleanliness
implement processes.
policy in preparation for a post-COVID-19 world, committing to a higher standard of
Under the new system, hotel teams
hygiene across its hotels and resorts.
will also appoint Clean Champions to continue building the culture of clean
Starting from June, IHG brands will
instilled in IHG hotels around the world.
operate under a Clean Promise developed
IHG updated cleaning protocols - At a
through the company’s new Global
glance:
IN THE ERA OF COVID, SUMMER ISLAND HOLDS VIRTUAL EID CELEBRATIONS
These champions will focus on guests
concern will be around cleanliness,
and colleagues as they navigate the new
safety and wellbeing,” she said. “IHG
environment and help on-property teams
has been busily reshaping the experience
to consistently deliver these elevated
for guests by redefining cleanliness and
cleanliness standards. IHG Australasia
supporting guests’ personal wellbeing
& Japan Managing Director Leanne
throughout their stay – and it’s driving
Harwood told the Clean Promise was an
innovation, especially where technology
extension of the company’s Way of Clean
can make a difference.”
program, which was launched in 2015. IHG
group’s
Maldivian
properties
“We are proud to build on our industry-
include Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma
leading Way of Clean program to develop
Maldives and InterContinental Maldives
new science-led protocols and service
Maamunagau Resort.
measures,
partnering
with
industry
Summer Island Maldives held a virtual
and enjoying Eid. Even though we don’t
Eid celebration this year to celebrate
have any guests, we are still celebrating
the end of Ramadan, with a bodu beru
Eid. We made a special video song and
show and a special song broadcast on the
had a live boduberu show from 5-6 pm on
resort’s social media channels. Summer
Eid day. Eid Mubarak to everyone.”
Island has become famous for its Eid celebrations over the past few years, with
Summer Island Maldives, located on
Maldivian staff performing traditional
Ziyaaraifushi, is one of the first Resorts
processions, dances and games, such as
in the Maldives. In 1996, Kaimoo group
bodu mas, Koadi, maali, dhandi jehun,
acquired Ziyaaraifushi and rebranded it
and dhafi negun, in addition to bodu beru.
as Summer Island Village. In 2015, the island was rebuilt entirely and rebranded
The celebrations have become a big
as Summer Island Maldives. The island
hit
tourists,
is located in North Malé atoll and is 40
and Maldivian guests, with increasing
minute speedboat ride from Velana
numbers of people from Male’ travelling
International Airport.
amongst
staff,
foreign
to Summer Island for the Eid holidays. Summer Island Maldives was recently With the resort currently closed because
awarded the prestigious Holiday Check
of the Maldives’ COVID-19 lockdown,
Gold Award for Being One of Maldives’
Summer Island chose to continue the
Most Popular Resorts. It was also awarded
traditional celebrations and show them
South Asia’s Leading Beach Resort and
over social media. Resort Manager Mari
Maldives’ Leading Beach Resort at the
Shareef said: “This year we miss our
2017, 2018, and 2019 SATA awards.
guests, especially the children visiting us
42 ACCOMMODATION
BANYAN TREE HOTELS AND RESORTS LAUNCHES “SAFE SANCTUARY” quotas in enclosed areas and for group activities. Guest amenities, linens and
Wellbeing Now and for the Future The
Group,
known
for
pioneering
bedding are thoroughly steamed and
wellbeing for guests and associates, is
arrive fully protected in-room, ensuring a
rolling out an Organisational Wellbeing
pristine and comfortable night of sleep.
index to assess and respond to associates’ wellbeing, as well as a regional Tele-
Providing for Contactless Journeys therapy service to help support emotional Going contactless as much as possible,
and mental health. Self-care, mindfulness
in-room directories and restaurant menus
and
will be replaced with digital options for
available for both associates and guests.
convenient access on personal devices.
Within the SafeSanctuary programme,
Check-in and check-out processes and
additional global standards will focus
experiences such as personal health
on deep rest through sleep, activities
resilience
modules
are
already
In preparation for the return of travel,
and stay with us. This programme has
and fitness classes, cooking sessions
Banyan Tree Group is committed to going
over 40 areas of enhanced protocols,
emphasizing the connection to Nature,
or
the extra mile to ensure a Safe Sanctuary
including screening procedures, hygiene
and culinary offerings emphasizing plant-
conducted in-room to enable a vacation
for both associates and guests. Partnering
stations,
prioritizing privacy.
with Bureau Veritas to co-develop a
throughout the guest and associate
proprietary label and set of protocols,
experience. Highlights of the programme
the Group is launching the SafeSanctuary
include:
and
redesigned
processes
wellbeing
consultations,
may
be
forward menus and ingredient integrity.
Looking Ahead
Preventing through Continuous Education & Training
Banyan Tree Group’s primary mission
All associates are educated continuously
is dedicating all efforts to ensure a Safe
on the evolving nature of this health
Sanctuary for guests’ return.
is to create sanctuaries to live well, and
Programme, an integrated health and
Protective assurance protocols
wellbeing programme that incorporates
Rigorous
protocols of assurance and wellbeing
protocols will be applied through the
situation,
standards.
guest and associate journey, focusing
surrounding
Education
on high-traffic public areas as well as
Banyan Tree Holdings Limited (“Banyan
and training are fundamental to ongoing
This will be rolled out progressively from
high-touch areas in-room with EPA-
Tree” or the “Group”) is one of the
success, and the centralized Banyan
June 2020 throughout all properties. The
approved and recommended cleaning
world’s
Tree Management Academy will increase
SafeSanctuary Seal demonstrates the rigor
agents. Appropriate distancing will be
branded hospitality groups. The group’s
its subject-specific training standards
of Protect, Provide and Prevent, to assure
encouraged through signage and with
properties in Maldives include Banyan
worldwide.
on
all guests and associates of the Group’s
ambassadors in public areas such as
Tree Angsana Resort & Spa Maldives -
each property and key personnel will
enhanced health and safety measures at
pools, lobbies, restaurants and other
Ihuru, Banyan Tree Angsana Resort &
apply
all guest touchpoints as they plan, book
facilities. There will be limited capacity
Spa Maldives - Velavaru and Banyan Tree
implementation of the new protocols.
cleaning
and
distancing
along
audit
with
guests
communities.
Hygiene
and
Managers
technology
that
allows
leading
independent,
multi-
Maldives Vabbinfaru.
DUSIT INTERNATIONAL INTRODUCES ‘DUSIT CARE – STAY WITH CONFIDENCE’ TO ADAPT THE ‘NEW NORMAL’ Dusit International, one of Thailand’s
and operating procedures across five
leading hotel and property development
distinct dimensions: 1. Flexible Stays 2.
companies, has dynamically responded to
Safety & Well-being 3. Local Experience
the challenges brought by the COVID-19
4. Technology, and 5. Dusit Care Kits. To
pandemic by introducing ‘Dusit Care –
limit queues and offer added convenience
Stay with Confidence’– a new programme
for guests, Flexible Stays covers, amongst
of services designed to go beyond
others, check-in and breakfast. All Dusit
enhanced hygiene protocols to deliver
Hotels & Resorts will offer flexible check-
additional convenience, experience and
in times, while breakfast will be available
value while ensuring guests always feel
at any time of the day.
safe and reassured. Safety annd well-being will see each Dusit The programme, being rolled out at Dusit
property enhance its already stringent
Hotels & Resorts worldwide, includes the
health
introduction of new facilities, services
includes frequent sanitization of all rooms
and
safety
practices,
which
ACCOMMODATION 43 and public areas, to include temperature
its various locations so guests can enjoy
Each pack will include hand sanitiser gel,
welcome guests and meet their needs the
scans on arrival, provision of appropriate
the best of local foods and souvenirs
a face mask, and antibacterial wipes
moment the official restrictions are lifted.
space in restaurants, and more measures
without having to leave the comfort of
so guests can explore Dusit’s various
And she is confident that domestic leisure
designed to protect the health and safety
Dusit’s hotels.
destinations with confidence.
markets will respond well.
efficient
“COVID-19 has significantly impacted
“To help revive the tourism industry
To promote personal well-being, Dusit’s
service, Dusit is also implementing new
our industry, and there is no doubt that
following this crisis, focusing on domestic
in-room
been
Technology to allow for mobile payments,
health, safety and security will take
leisure markets first will be key,” said Ms
enhanced to include personalized healthy
and installing digital menus in its various
precedence over any other factor when
Suthumpun. “Based on the severity of the
food, while refreshment fridges will offer
outlets. Flexible meeting and conference
customers are ready to book hotels
situation and the current travel restrictions
healthy drinks and snacks which guests
equipment, and property-wide high-
again,” said Ms Suphajee Suthumpun,
in place, it’s likely to be a while before
can enjoy for free. New outdoor workout
speed internet, ensure guests can always
Group CEO, Dusit International.
we can count on international and inter-
areas will also be added to offer plenty of
remain connected.
of guests, customers and employees. To dining
options
have
enable
contactless
and
space for exercise. For Local Experience,
regional travel. With this in mind, we must “While the health and safety of our guests
do all we can to inspire and stimulate local
Dusit is partnering with the finest local
To offer additional peace of mind, a Dusit
will always be our top priority, to truly
demand, and the steps we have taken at
culinary specialists and craftspeople in
Care Kit will be placed in every guest room.
inspire confidence and drive demand in
our properties put us in a strong position
this difficult time, we recognise we must go
to achieve this. Strategic comeback
far beyond basic measures for enhanced
campaigns offering exceptional value for
cleanliness and physical distancing. To
money, and the introduction of wellness-
truly delight our guests and meet their
focused initiatives under our Dusit Care
needs in a post-COVID-19 world, we
programme, will also add to our distinct
must reinvent our services in line with the
appeal and help us to meet our short-
new normal while seeking ways to deliver
term goals.”
additional convenience, experience and value. We must also ensure the new distancing measures do not detract from the high levels of gracious service for which we are renowned. This is what we aim to achieve by implementing the Dusit Care – Stay with Confidence programme.” Ms Suthumpun said that by implementing the five new Dusit Care – Stay with Confidence hotels
are
services, now
the
company’s
well-positioned
to
44 ACCOMMODATION
LILY HOTELS OFFERS MORE FLEXIBILITY ON BOOKINGS! and Ayurveda treatments at Tamara Spa,
core part of the Hideaway experience,
their 5-star staff will ensure to indulge
with the divine Hideaway Spa offering a
your every need. Lily Beach Resort &
range of treatments for rejuvenation and
Spa’s this offer is available for stays from
relaxation. The abundance of fish life
01 June 2020 through and including 30
around this Maldives resort is second
September 2020.
to none, making it a prime location
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa Maldives
for snorkeling and scuba diving. The perfect
Maldives
retreat,
Hideaway
offers the utmost in romance and is one
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa - the
of the preferred destinations for those
perfect island retreat in the Maldives, is
celebrating their honeymoon. Families
located in the northern Haa Alifu Atoll.
are very welcome at Hideaway, with an
An exclusive all-suite Maldives resort for
extensive Kids Club available to help
those who demand genuine luxury and
keep young travelers entertained during
the utmost in privacy. Set on a crescent-
their stay.
shaped private island, this incredible Book confidently your dream escape to
best all inclusive resort in the Maldives.
resort offers a choice of private villas
In addition to the “Buy Now, Book Later”
the Maldives and secure today’s rate for
Close to Male’ and just 25 Minutes
or private villas with pools for its guests
offer, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa
travel at a later date at Hideaway Beach
by seaplane, Lily Beach Resort offers
to unwind and enjoy a home away from
Maldives is also offering 2 offers available
Resort & Spa Maldives and Lily Beach
Premium food and beverage options
home. Beachside or over the water villas
for stays from 01 October 2020 through
Resort & Spa at Huvahendhoo. There is
with an extensive list of wines & spirits.
and the associated privacy levels offered
and
no need to select the exact dates of your
Included in the no surprise package are 3
are the hallmark of this award winning
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa Maldives
holiday today.
excursions per stay. Home to families and
destination, which boasts some of the
and Lily Beach Resort & Spa are operated
couples alike, even newlyweds find their
largest beachfront villas in Maldives.
by Lily Hotels and Resorts in Maldives.
Lily Beach Resort & Spa
including
30
September
2021.
honeymoon experience extraordinary,
Nestled on a private island amidst the
with the wide list of activities on the island
Gourmands, Foodies and food lovers
serene clear blue water of the Indian
including
fishing,
alike can indulge in an award winning
Ocean is where you will find one of the
mirage of sports and leisure activities
culinary experience. Wellbeing is a
snorkeling,
diving,
NIYAMA’S EXPLORERS KIDS CLUB: OFFERING LUXE EXCITEMENT FOR LITTLE VIPS Luxe excitement for the littlest VIPs. Set
trained by Scott Dunn, supported by a
in the heart of the Isle of Play, Explorers
trained local team, with each one having
Kids Club caters to the imaginations of
a passion for working with children.
all ages. This quintessentially Maldives
Divided into two areas for the different
kids club immerses children in the eye-
age groups, the whole club is full of
opening nature and cultural beauty of the
everything an active imagination could
islands – from Dhivehi lullabies to dolphin
need.
scouting. With age related activities and
Niyama
Private
Islands
offers
more
myriad opportunities to create their own
than a luxury retreat in the Maldives.
exceptional island experience. With twin
Going beyond conventional concepts
islands Play and Chill, Niyama offers you
of lavish accommodation, sumptuous
the true luxury of choice, with everything
cuisines, and lavish services, Niyama
expected from an island resort and so
Private Islands presents every visitor with
much more.
facilities for children from 12 months to
Activities
12 years, the Explorer Kids club gives
Niyama’s nurturing Globetrotter and
parents the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed
Adventurer programmes for younger
holiday, whilst their children are in the
guests, introduces the children to the
care of experts, enjoying everything that
flora and fauna of the islands and include
both islands have to offer. Purpose built
activities from coconut painting to sand
with a circus theme, the children’s club is
prints, from hermit crab races to water
a vibrant and exciting place and promises
fun, and from themed treasure hunts to
fun and adventure for every child.
cookie making. There’s much fun to be had both inside and out, with toys, games
Explorers is divided into four age groups,
and books in the club to keep children
each with an excellent carer to child
entertained during the heat of the day,
ratio. The childcare team is made up of
and a playground with a sandpit, water
fully qualified child carers recruited and
play area, inset trampoline and see saws.
ACCOMMODATION 45 Snacks are provided, and there’s a sleep
volleyball, stand up paddle boarding
with pomegranate. Ostrich bobotie. Four
appreciation for new flavors. Niyama
room for babies and toddlers in need of
and designing t shirts, your children will
distinctive cuisine classes are on offer:
has also won the Family Traveler Award
a siesta. We also provide complimentary
be endlessly entertained. The club has
Maldivian as experienced at Epicure,
2016 for the Best Kids Club and been
nappies (including swim nappies) during
a stage for those who love to perform;
with fresh seafood locally caught and
voted as the world’s best family hotels
club hours. For the Voyagers and Pioneers,
a small wall for budding climbers, and
cooked with vibrant colours and spices;
2015 by Conde Nast Traveler. Niyama
a trip to Niyama is a real Swallows and
there’s even a spot of education with visits
Asian as served at Nest, with five-flavored
Private Islands Maldives offers more than
Amazons adventure. They have their
from Niyama’s resident marine biologist.
Thai dishes being a focus; the freshness
a luxury retreat in the Maldives. Going
of the Mediterranean from the Executive
beyond conventional concepts of lavish
own separate area and games room in the children’s club, and they’re able to
Niyama has recently launched Food
Chef of Blu; and the rarest of African
accommodation,
explore their surrounds with Niyama’s
Play – tailored cooking classes for small
delicacies roasted over the open fires of
and personalized service; Niyama Private
Explorers team who take them out to
groups of six to eight – wherein guests
Tribal. Niyama’s Food Play classes are
Islands Maldives presents every visitor
the reef to snorkel, or find dolphins or
are invited to learn the secrets of our
ideal for couples, families with kids or
with myriad opportunities to create their
discover one of the neighboring islands.
native chef whizzes. Maldivian tuna
groups of friends, offering an ideal day
own exceptional island experience.
With activities including cookie making,
curry. Thai tom yum. Grilled halloumi
of adventurous learning, passion, and
sumptuous
cuisines,
LILY BEACH RESORT GIVES BEST OF MALDIVES FOR 22 MAROONED GUESTS AMID PANDEMIC Lily Beach Resort has given the best of
table and enjoyed the celebration with
Maldives hospitality for 22 marooned
Bodu Beru dances and bond fire. Other
guests amid the pandemic. At the end
guests bought presents for the lucky
of March, Maldives closed its border for
birthday boy and the resort upgraded the
incoming tourists which was followed by
family stay to the Sunset Water Villa. It
the cancellation of airlines to repatriate
is interesting to see how people approach
tourists back to their countries. As a
to one another has changed during these
result, Lily Beach Resort had 22 guests
times, for the better.
since mid March who were unable to return to their country.
“This peculiar situation has made us become even more flexible and creative
The lockdown and travel ban between the
because it is not so common to have
islands in Maldives left the resort’s 200
guests in your resort for more than 2
staff and these 22 guests marooned on
months and somewhere, we need to
the island. As a result the guests got to
entertain them more than what we would
indulge in exclusive Maldivian hospitality
normally do when they are here for one
from morning to night by their team.
or two weeks,” the resort representative further said. “They are concerned about
and security of their guests and team
bathrooms, FO, Resto, Recreation
“Because there has been no new guests
the situation back at home, and it is also
members remains the highest priority
areas etc.) and have continued the
or staff to foot step on the island for
our responsibility to try to make them
at the resort. They are reportedly doing
use of hospital-grade disinfectant.
more than 2 months, and of course no
“forget”, even if it is only for one evening,
everything they can to ensure travel
suspicious cases in our resort, we do
what the world is going through.”
safety and provide maximum flexibility
food
as the situation around novel coronavirus
accordance with current food safety
(COVID-19) continues to evolve.
recommendations.
not feel the constraints that families
•
Lily Resorts will continue to adjust and
beverage
service
in
around the world have in terms of social
Lily Beach Resort also adapted their room
distancing and being locked down; we are
prices as it would not be ethical to try to
locked down but on a beautiful island,”
benefit from this situation and guests are
an official from the resort said. “We have
more than appreciative of it, according to
In response to COVID-19, Lily Resorts
sanitizers. They have also activated
changed our activity calendar to match
the resort. Looking at it from a business
have
measures
their operations response teams to
the in-house guest’s interests. Night
angle, this allows anyone to build trust
developed in consultation with Ministry of
provide around-the-clock assistance
fishing, swimming with whale sharks and
and loyalty. Looking at the future, Lily
Health and local public health authorities
to their resorts and are prepared to
manta rays, lagoon tastings and theme
Beach Resort have also launched an
(including the HPA and MOH) to make
act swiftly should they be alerted to
nights in different locations around the
attractive offer to allow guests to book
their cleaning and hygiene protocols even
a case of coronavirus at one of its
island.”
now and choose at a later stage their
more rigorous:
properties.
dates, as it is difficult for the time being
•
•
Guests Travel Safety:
The
taken
teams
are
receiving
The management has also taken part in
to commit. “That flexibility in this offer
ongoing
some of the celebrations with guests,
has been extremely well received by
operating protocols.
notably for the 13th birthday of one of the
guests and it gives us an optimistic view
guests. The resort’s whole team met for a
for the future,” a statement by the resort
of cleaning of public areas (including
BBQ dinner on the beach on a communal
read. As it has always been, the safety
lobbies,
•
briefings
and
enhanced
They have increased the frequency door
resort
have
increased
the
deployment of antibacterial hand
additional
resort
The
handles,
public
46 ACCOMMODATION
GILI LANKANFUSHI TO LAUNCH A NEW PLANT-BASED PACKAGE: “POWERED BY PLANTS” FOR ECO-CONSCIOUS TRAVELERS with recycled wire mesh to feature fish
intensity and sea temperature, whilst
and sea turtles.
also identifying and tracking manta ray and turtle populations, to educate guests
Whether its breakfast, lunch or dinner,
about the underwater world through the
guests will be treated to colorful and
guided trips. They will also offer a new
balanced plant-based menus, drawing
programme of additional lectures at their
inspiration
dedicated research centre, Gili Veshi.
traditions Gili
from and
Maldivian carefully
Lankanfushi’s
culinary
crafted
chef
For those eager to try their hand at
Hari Govindaraj using organic herbs,
a new skill to take home, there is the
vegetables and fruits lovingly grown in
opportunity to learn plant-based tricks
the resort’s very own organic garden
of the trade from ChefHari in a private
without
pesticides.
Gili Vegan Cooking Class where guests
Signature dishes include; Aloe Vera &
will prepare Maldivian curries, juices
Beetroot Tartar with Arugula and Seared
and smoothies using fresh ingredients
Radish & Spinach Cannelloni. 100% of
found in the gardens. After a full day
using
executive
by
harmful
Looking beyond immediate restrictions
Arriving at the resort, guests will settle
the resort’s food waste will be processed
ofoutdoor pursuits, guests can retreat to
to sustainable travel news for 2021,
into their villa with sweet vegan treats,
in
composter,
the blissfully secluded Meera Spa and
much-loved
eco-resort
feather and wool-free bedding and
producing natural fertilizer which will
enjoy a holistic and healing treatment
Gili Lankanfushi will introduce a new
a complimentary bottle of reef-safe
continue to nurture the island’s extensive
using cruelty-free vegan products such as
‘Powered by Plants’ package; a series of
Australian gold botanic sunscreen so
organic garden. Nature-based days will
Voya’s ‘Serenergise’ bodyoil and ‘Feel the
plant-based offerings and nature-based
they can take a dip in the crystal clear
begin with intention as guests will enjoy
Heat’ warming gel to rejuvenate the body.
experiences to continue to strive to reduce
ocean safe in the knowledge that they are
a private vinyasa flow yoga class on the
Powered by Plants at Gili Lankanfushi
the resort’s impact on the planet, and
protecting the surrounding eco-system.
beach before accompanying a local
starts from $4285 (approx. (3,416) for
marine biologist on a guided snorkeling
five nights’ accommodation including
Located in the languid waters of the North
session, learning about Gili Lankanfushi’s
all meals during guests’ stay from Chef
Malé Atoll, just a 20-minute speedboat
pioneering Coral Lines Project which
Hari’s plant based menus, plant-based
A recent survey from Original Travel on
ride from Malé, the resort’s 45 villas
provides a nursery environment for new
in-room amenities, a Gili Vegan Cooking
post-Coronavirus travel showed that
offer open-air living spaces, roof terraces
corals to grow, bolstering the house reef
Class, a private dinner under the stars, a
30% of respondents will want to travel
and private decks with direct access to
and monitoring survival types across
60 minute treatment of choice, a private
more sustainably once restrictions are
the lagoon below. Its furnishings are
coral genotypes.
vinyasa flow yoga class, a guided snorkel
lifted and McKinsey’s report on luxury
inspired by the island and made by skilled
consumption post-crisis anticipates an
craftsman
materials
The island’s dedicated marine biology
intensified desire for more responsible
such as bed frames made from recycled
team monitor the health and biodiversity
consumption amongst luxury consumers.
teakwood and lampshades handwoven
of
Maldivian
further facilitate responsible travelers in honoring their natural surroundings.
using
upcycled
FUSHIFARU MALDIVES BUILDS MANTA SHAPED CORAL REEF
an
advanced
rocket
with a marine biologist, and domestic
the
ecosystems,
measure
transfers.
light
A month ago, Fushifaru started building
chance to regrow on the frame and regain,
an immense coral frame in the shape of
their otherwise lost, life. This exciting
a manta and today, the frame is filled
project has made a lot of progress as well
with rocks, coral and most importantly,
as a positive impact on the environment.
lots of marine life. At Fushifaru Maldives,
However, with ocean temperatures rising
caring for the wellbeing of the beautiful
in Maldives, many corals die and are
oceans of Maldives is just one of their
bleached as a result of the warmness
green initiatives. Their team implemented
of the water. Through replanting broken
this coral planting program where broken
corals, Fushifaru Maldives hopes to
pieces of coral are restored by attaching
strengthen the corals in their lagoon by
them onto frames. These are then allowed
giving them an opportunity to live. Their
to blossom and create new homes for the
belief is that there is no time to waste on
diverse marine life in Fushifaru lagoon.
helping to save the coral reefs, in order to
Members of the staff were involved in
restore the ocean’s health and contribute
sourcing the rocks, finding broken pieces
to the wellbeing of the planet. This is just
of corals and attaching them carefully onto
one of the many “Going Green” projects
the frame, so that the corals are given a
they are currently working on.
ACCOMMODATION 47
CONRAD MALDIVES RANGALI ISLAND SEWS FACE MASKS TO DONATE LOCAL COMMUNITY, HEALTHCARE WORKERS In light of the global pandemic, Conrad
“We know there is a need for masks right
Maldives Rangali Island has inspired
now and hoping that our efforts will be a
its team members to get involved in a
positive contribution to those who need
face mask sewing initiative where these
these extra layer of protection.”
will in turn be donated to selected local communities and healthcare workers in
A celebration of design and human
Maldives.
spirit, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island expresses an accord of form, function
This initiative was launched earlier this
and innovation in driving hospitality
month, where the resident tailors and
trends that has set the benchmark in its
volunteering team members are aiming to
style. Rejecting trends in design to create
complete 1500 face masks for donation.
a space that invites and inspires with
Located in the South Ari Atoll, the resort
a distinctive design that sits in perfect
plans to distribute the face masks to
harmony with the natural environment.
local residents and healthcare workers of
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is an
nearby local islands as well as in Male’,
inspirational backdrop featuring intuitive
the countries capital.
service, distinctive
“During
this
challenging
time,
infinite mix
connections of
and
a
once-in-a-lifetime
we
experiences making it an extraordinary
are looking at unique ways to help
destination for couples and families to
communities in our neighboring islands,”
discover paradise.
said Alex Traeger, Director of Operations.
LUX* RESORTS & HOTELS LAUNCHES CAREGIVER PACKAGE FOR LOCAL HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS LUX* Resorts & Hotels has launched
bit for our local community in order to
a special caregiver package for local
provide them with a well-deserved break
healthcare professionals for stays at
close to home.” A Caregiver rate will be
LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas or
extended to all local healthcare heroes
LUX* North Malé Atoll Resort & Villas.
residing in Maldives who wish to stay at LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas or
LUX* Resorts & Hotels’ recent Healthcare
LUX* North Malé Atoll Resort & Villas,
Heroes campaign to thank Maldivian
with 30 per cent off accommodation
healthcare
very
and 20 per cent off all dining and spa
heartwarming stories shared by the local
treatments, applicable between 3 June
community, wishing to express their
2020 until 31 December 2021.
heroes
saw
some
gratitude to the medical professionals during this unprecedented crisis. The
Additionally, LUX* Resorts & Hotels will
community’s
has
honour all Healthcare Heroes by planting
highlighted these heroes’ professionalism
coconut trees on World Environment
and tireless fight against the outbreak
Day,
since it started in March.
permanent reminders of their invaluable
touching
tributes
5
June
2020,
to
serve
as
acts of service rendered during this “Our deep gratitude for all healthcare
unprecedented time.
workers’ heroic acts of service during this pandemic is beyond what words can
To enjoy the caregiver rate, medical
describe,” said Roshan Radhay, Regional
professionals should book directly with
Director of Sales & Marketing, Maldives
the hotel with a valid ID presented upon
& Middle East. “No gesture is enough to
booking.
repay them, however we wish to do our
48 TRAVEL AGENTS
AGODA LAUNCHES “TALENT DIRECTORY” TO ASSIST ITS FORMER EMPLOYEES FIND JOBS Agoda, the hotel booking giant has
former employees are requested to email
launched
at: alumni@agoda.com.
an
online
portal
“Agoda
Talent Directory” to assist their former employees in finding jobs. “We built
The directory provides a list of people
this because we’ve had to say goodbye
who have opted-in to have their profiles
to great people at Agoda recently;
shared for the purpose of finding a new
talented individuals who we believe other
job opportunity. Potential employers can
companies would be lucky to have,” a
reach out to any of the individuals directly
statement on the Agoda Talent Directory
or submit any specific job opportunities
site said.
through the portal and Agoda will share it directly theie alumni community. Agoda
Agoda Talent Directory is a live document
has laid off more than 1,500 employees in
where former Agoda employees provide
30 countries, accounting for about 25% of
details for potential employers to access
the total workforce due to the COVID-19
on their site. To enroll for the directory,
crisis.
EXPEDIA GROUP REVENUE DROPS 15% IN 1ST QUARTER OF 2020
Online travel agency, Expedia group has
safeguard
announced that their revenue for 1st
decreased the marketing budget by 20%
quarter of 2020 has been decreased by
for the 1st quarter of 2020. Earlier in
15% compare to the same period in 2019.
February 2020 the company laid off 12%
This is due to the COVID-19 pandemic
of their employees. Moreover, last month
which has affected the company’s hotel
the company also announced new capital
and air travel bookings around the globe.
budget of $3.2 billion. Among them $2
the
business.
They
have
billion coming as debt financing and $1.2 According to the company, the 1st quarter
billion as an equity investment by Apollo
revenue was decreased by 15% from
Global Management and Silver Lake
$2.6 billion in Q1 2019 to $2.2 billion.
Partners.
At the same time, the gross bookings for the quarter ending March 31 were down
According to the Expedia Group CEO
39% year-over-year from $29.4 billion
Peter Kern “the COVID-19 has created
to $17.9 million. Moreover, Earnings
more urgency and focus to streamline
before interest, tax, depreciation and
operations and has created an opportunity
amortization (EBITDA) was a loss of $76
to work through “what had been thorny
million in the 1st quarter of 2020. Expedia
technology issues.”
group has taken several measures to
TOURISM MARKETER’S SECTION 49
5 THINGS TO EXPECT WHEN MALDIVES REOPENS IN JULY Maldives will be opening its shores to
compared to the properties catering to
the world from July, after 3 months of
budget segment. As people start to travel
restrictions. The pandemic has changed
post COVID-19, privacy will become the
the status quo indefinitely. Lets look into
new luxury. Travel and hospitality brands
what it will look like in Maldives post
that cater to this new mindset will reap
pandemic.
the rewards of more reservations as well
1. VIA to be key for inbound tourism success
as the added bonus of bookings at higher price points.
3. Local island tourism may not first point of contact for the tourists. pickup until late this year Velana International Airport will be the Airport screening and how airlines can
Although
the
timeline
proposed
by
cater to the demand will be important
the government to open local island
in building trust for the destination. The
tourism will be from August 1st, 2020,
good news is that Velana International
the local island tourism industry will go
with social distancing measures and
thought of vacation will still give itchy feet
Fear of traveling abroad will be imminent
While the beds remain the same, demand
hygiene measures intensified across the
to travelers and they would want to enjoy
with the local community as well but
will not be like before. Hoteliers cannot
airport.
far from madding crowds. The impact on
the budget segment should seize this
maintain with 2019 prices, and they
aviation could hit budget travelers since
opportunity. Offers and packages to
have to come up with attractive prices
many budget airlines across the globes
locals could induce sales for them.
for tourists. Dynamic pricing will come
have collapsed. This could take sometime
Everyone will be in need of a vacation
into play resulting in price wars between
Looking into tourism sector, the top luxury
for recovery and impact travelers coming
after
hoteliers.
properties will get immediate bookings
to local islands.
uncertainty of the pandemic.
4. Budget segment should target Airport is geared up for the “new normal” into recovery around late this year. The locals
2. Surge in bookings for top luxury properties
grappling
the
lockdowns
and
5. There could be a price war among hoteliers
5 WAYS HOW DIGITAL TOURISM CAN PLAY A KEY ROLE IN TOURISM INDUSTRY services not just to reduce human contact but also drive efficiency and reduce the
4. E-commerce System Digital marketing is an investment and
environmental impact. These platform
you need to ensure that you get your
offers a series of digital services that can
investment back. It is important to
be managed from one place, including
have a one-stop shop where travelers
check-in and check-out tools to entire
can book travel services, from airfare
operation.
to accommodation to entry passes to
3. Virtual Reality
popular destinations and other services. Once a site visitor becomes a client, he or
Businesses operating within the travel
she should be able to reserve or pay for
industry need to be quick to adopt
your services through your e-commerce
virtual reality technology and for good
system that should be able to accept payments from popular payment systems.
Digital tourism is the use of digital tools to
While all of this means there are plenty of
reason. Typically, your customers are
prepare, organize, control and enjoy the
opportunities for travel brands, there is
looking to purchase experiences, rather
travel experience in the tourism industry.
also a lot of competition. It is now more
than products, and virtual reality offers
We look into ways how digital tourism
difficult to stand out from the crowd of
an effective way for marketers to give
plays a vital role in the industry today.
other travel companies and get people
them a taste of what they can expect.
others perceive your business when
to the checkout, which is exactly why
Travel customers usually require lots
they search for or stumble upon it
you need to be up-to-date with the latest
of information before they book a hotel
online. Consequently, online reputation
Travel marketing has never been more
best practices when it comes to digital
room. This may, for instance, require
management (ORM) proactively influences
important. The rise of social media and
marketing for the travel sector.
them to read descriptions, view images,
what information people will find. ORM
look at videos, read customer reviews
is not only about managing content in
1. Digital Marketing
influencers means that the world is more
5. Digital Reputation Management Your online reputation determines how
visible than ever before and consumers
2. Digital Service Management
or seek opinions on social media.
search engines, though. It’s also about
are constantly looking for inspiration, the
The COVID-19 pandemic has made it
Through intelligent use of virtual reality,
managing negative business reviews and
next big destination and the best travel
ever so important for accommodation
however, this process can be shortened
encouraging happy clients to contribute
deals.
providers to implement more digital
significantly.
more positive feedback.
50 TOURISM MARKETER’S SECTION
5 SUREFIRE WAYS TO NEXT-LEVEL ANY FRONT OFFICE OPERATION
could help stay connected with the
a growth mindset to the next level their
customers on an always-on basis and
front office operations in a manner that
have records of those interactions to
reaps optimal benefits.
learn from and to further improve the service. •
BY GUEST WRITER MOHAMED HAMDHOON
•
Encourage employees to bring their
Tablets, smartphones, vessel/vehicle
extroverted self to work. Employees
tracking systems, and digital walkie
working in the front office are in a
talkies. As emailing is fast replaced
state of constant interaction between
by messaging apps such as Slack,
guests
Flock, and Ryver while most of the
Encouraging—and
information about guest profiles,
appropriate,
preferences, and daily movements
to project a pleasant and upbeat
are
is
personality works wonders when it
important to invest in the necessary
comes to delighting guests and going
tools to get the best out of these new-
the extra mile on the service journey.
communicated
online,
it
age technologies.
•
and
other
departments. where
training—employees
Be open to new methods and to experiment with new service
Although
is
deliverables. Sometimes the best
always
ideas come from those who are out
remember to weigh this question before
there on the field interacting with
committing money or resources into any
the guests and observing the trends
such undertakings: Is this going to help
in real-time than from the executive
us simplify processes and improve guest
team who are in a boardroom
experience?
brainstorming
crucial,
embracing companies
technology must
for
new
ideas.
Companies should encourage this If the answer to that question is a
from their employees and implement
resounding yes, you are headed in the
such ideas that carry any merit.
The front office department is an integral
Here are five surefire ways hospitality-
right direction. If you or your team have
part of any hotel or resort operation. As a
centric companies can next-level their
the slightest of doubts surrounding that
implementation process of those new
revenue-generating business function, the
front office operations regardless of their
question, keep looking.
methods and service deliverables.
front office department plays a significant
star ratings or service settings.
role in informing, educating, and exciting the customers about the services offered
Embrace Technology
by the company.
•
Incentivize
or
gamify
the
Change is hard, and often, it will be
Cultivate a growth mindset
met with resistance from those who
Today, companies are operating at such
are insistent on maintaining the status
The front office operations are as hectic as
a competitive landscape in which the
quo of how things have always been
they come. And it requires a lot of moving
customers are so fickle and the choices so
or how things have always been done.
Few companies realize this, but the front
parts to ensure the services are offered
abundant that they risk losing their clients
Incentivizing employees to adopt the
office department is also a relationship-
in a manner that adds value instead of
in the blink of an eye if they grow even a
new changes with a financial or some
building business function. From nailing
frustrating the customer.
little bit complacent in their services or
other form of reward or gamifying
fails to engineer a new way to blow away
the process so that it will feel more
their customers.
like play could help create buy-in
a good first impression to wowing customers during their stay by observing
Given the complexity and variety of
their preferences, likes, dislikes, and
services being offered by the companies
personalizing the services based on
today, trying to rely on a shared Excel
Exceptional services provided by gracious
behavioral psychology that results in
sheet is the easiest way to introduce
and passionate hosts is the name of the
repeat business falls under the purview
chaos and ruin your day and upset your
game of the entire hospitality industry.
Adopt a common service language
of the front office department.
customers.
Meeting customer expectations is no
A lot of service organizations fail because
longer enough. You must go beyond them.
they have a fragmented or disjointed
and make such change management efforts a true success.
And from what I have gathered, seen, and
Here are some of the technologies that
Satisfying your customers is no longer
understanding of what they are trying to
experienced from so many hotels and so
could
happening
enough. You must delight them. And for
accomplish between different functions,
many resorts are they do not fully grasp
and help companies better plan and
that to happen, companies must radically
sections, and departments.
this extremely basic fact about their front
streamline their workflow.
change
prevent
that
from
their
service
philosophies
and embark on a journey of iterative,
If
Cloud-based Property Management
sometimes mistake-prone, and lifelong
addressing the guests by their names
Systems (PMS). A PMS such as Opera
learning. In her brilliant book Mindset:
at every interaction or acknowledging
5 from Oracle Hospitality could
The New Psychology of Success, world-
their
But it does not have to be that way. Any
help tailor personalized services
renowned psychologist Carol S. Dweck
birthdays,
company can take their flailing or subpar
and streamline billing and maximize
captured this idea beautifully when she
and anniversaries for the Butler Team,
front office operations and inject life and
revenue
said, “Love challenges, be intrigued by
then it should also be the same for the
energy into it to completely overhaul its
management systems
mistakes, enjoy the effort and keep on
Reception Team, the Transport Team or
E-Concierge apps. Handling guest
learning.”
the Call Center Team.
office operations. And that to me, is a flagrant under-utilization of resources
•
and a missed opportunity.
business efficacy, service superiority, and
•
with
its
advanced
rate
delighting
special
the
customer
occasions
honeymoons,
means
such
as
babymoons,
bottom lines. All it takes is a conscious,
communication in a timely fashion
concerted effort to seek excellence from
is crucial. E-Concierge apps such
Here are some ways companies can shift
Anything less than all the teams singing
all parties concerned.
as Alice, Hotelcloud, or Agilysys
their inherently fixed mindset in favor of
the same song and dancing the same
TOURISM MARKETER’S SECTION 51 dance could render the excellent service
person learning and development
added benefit of improved services
company does not know how to use those
provided by the Butler Team useless and
sessions, complement it by providing
for the customer.
resources intelligently and responsibly.
create gaps that, once noticed—and
self-directed
they always get noticed—results in poor
learning platforms such as Harvard
employees to do that intelligently.
If a company embraces the latest
customer satisfaction.
ManageMentor or LinkedIn Learning
Most of the decisions made by
technology (well, at least what they can
where they can acquire additional
employees
the
afford out of the latest technology),
Here are some ways companies can
and ultra-specific knowledge about
standard operating procedures say
cultivate a growth mindset, adopt a
align everyone on their teams to work
those skills they are lacking.
or what the usual course of action
common service language, identify skill
Conduct yearly research to identify
suggests can be summarized as a
gaps and up-/re-skill their employees,
of destroying value for each other or
what skills will be most in-demand
judgment call. Training employees
and empower them towards action, they
creating discernible service gaps that
in the next 3-5 years. Do employees
to do that in a manner that increases
could also nurture a front office operation
hurt the overall customer experience.
have the proper organizational or
the upside of taking the action and
that is truly next-level.
communication skills? Do we need to
decrease the downside on not taking
Create a common service vocabulary
invest in improving their leadership
the action could save companies a
and share it amongst everyone.
skills or give them an immersive
pretty penny in the long run.
And once it is shared, confirm that
training on creative problem solving
everyone has the same understanding
and
as everybody else because they could
customer? Failure to close these
Running
still be working at a cross purpose
gaps could hurt customer experience
operation is not a luxury that is only
from each other.
and satisfaction and make it that
reserved for the mega-rich or the biggest
much more difficult to delight the
hotel chains with the most resources.
customers.
Resources do not mean anything if the
towards the same objectives instead
•
•
Incorporate
common
•
service
vocabulary into the onboarding and induction plan of new employees.
to
handle
on
a
online
difficult
vocabulary, it is important to pass it
Empower Employees and Bias Them Towards Action
down to those who join the team later.
Far
Or else, the potency of such an effort
centralized
will be lost with every employee who
when it comes to getting anything done.
resigns or retires.
While it is good to err on the side of
Update the shared service vocabulary
caution when it comes to making CAPEX
as the organization evolves. Nothing
or any huge financial decisions, speed
is set in stone in the life of an
matters when you are dealing with irate
organization and the same is true
customers.
Once there is a shared service
•
how
learning
too
many
companies
decision-making
have
a
process
for its shared service vocabulary. Get rid of those ideas and phrases
Empower the employees or the shift
that no longer make sense or serves
managers to make quick decisions if it
any purpose and add those that
is below a certain dollar threshold or if
better reflect the values and service
it could help resolve minor complaints
philosophies in the present or an
or issues without further agitating a
aspirational future.
customer who is already not happy about
Identify Skill Gaps to Up-/Re-Skill Your Employees Accordingly
something. Here are some ways companies can
We live in a time and age where everything
empower
from the technology we use to the
them to take immediate action instead
knowledge we acquire to the skill sets that
of waiting for the managers to sign off on
are becoming obsolete fairly quickly. A
something as simple as rebating an M&M
lack of essential skills could spell disaster
from the bill of a guest who has spent tens
in the way how things are done and how
of thousands of dollars on her extras.
employees
and
encourage
services are provided and hinder future growth for some companies. Closing such
•
Recognize those who are proactive
skill gaps—of both hard and soft skills—
and anticipate customer needs. A
must be considered an urgent business
lot of the times when a customer is
priority and companies should treat it
unhappy and complains about the
as such. Here are some ways companies
service, a service recovery must be
can up-/res-skill their employees and
done which could be multiples of the
some important points to consider when
value of the service she received in the
conducting their gap analysis.
first place. Reinforcing such behaviors by recognizing those who proactively
•
Enable self-directed learning with
anticipate customer needs and save
online learning solutions. Instead of
money for the company could also
only providing employees with in-
allude others to do the same with an
•
Value calculated risk-taking and train
no
matter
what
Final Thoughts a
world-class
front
office
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mohamed Hamdhoon is the Front Office Manager at Kurumba Maldives. He has years of experience in the tourism industry
52 TOURISM MARKETER’S SECTION
GUESTHOUSES - THE FIRST STEPS TO RECOVERY BY RUTH FRANKLIN be sanitized and safe at all times. This
Now is the time for your guests to feel
cleaning process will form part of the new
reassured.
norm and once Safe Tourism guidelines have been published you will need to
Managing
establish a clear cleaning program and
expectation is hugely important at this
policy for your property.
time. Clearly communicate when you
your
potential
guest’s
plan to re-open on all channels where
4. Operational Space
your potential guests may find you with
Take time to consider how you will
a caveat that this may change if the
provide services to your guests whilst
government advice changes.
maintaining social distancing. It may be necessary to remodel spaces especially in
Consider preparing a ‘we are open for
dining areas, which in turn will allow you
business’ campaign. It is essential to
to understand your capacity/occupancy
stay close to your guests, maintaining a
constraints. Following publication of Safe
continuous and positive relationship that
Tourism guidelines it is likely you will
instills confidence and assurance.
need to consider reception areas; how
Note: In draft, police mentioned that permission to guesthouses to reopen will be given by their respective council and without fee. With announcements in the Maldives this week of proposed Guidelines To Commence Safe Tourism in the Maldives and the easement of restrictions once the current lockdown directive ends on the 28th May, many tourism businesses will be looking ahead to taking their first cautious steps towards reopening, the big question for many guest house owners is how? It goes without saying that the final guidelines
for
Safe
Tourism
when
published will play a large part of both your timeline and strategic plan. Ensure you are clear on what the final expectations are when they are published and do not be afraid to ask for clarity if you are unsure. It’s important both for your business’s reputation and for the Maldives that the safety of your staff and your guests is exact from the start. In the meantime however there are aspects of your strategic plan that you can be working on if you have not already started doing so.
1. Review your reviews Take time to read all reviews on your property from the last six months. Check all review platforms where you are listed
and where guests will check in/out, how
7. Team Preparation
payment is taken for example.
Take time to communicate and train your team no matter what size your team is.
and note the areas of improvement that
5. Marketing
previous guests have highlighted. Post
Use
wisely.
understand your pre opening plan and the
COVID-19 operation provides you the
Understand which markets will be able to
part they play in delivering it. Once you
opportunity to start afresh and allows
travel and focus on these. This may mean
have guests in house your team will play
you to put actions or processes into place
changing your current advertising and
a hugely important role. Their actions
to ensure every review is 5* .
communication targeting. If you are not
and behaviors, how they demonstrate
already connected with MMPRC yet then
the required health and safety and
this maybe the time to do so.
cleanliness guidelines will be the reason
2. Maintenance and renovations
your
Every member of your team needs to
marketing
budget
that you receive further bookings. If they
There has never been a better time to ensure that your property is in the best
Review your marketing material, are
are not trained effectively on processes
condition to open its doors to guests.
your fact sheets up to date, have you
and procedures they will not be able to
Take time to walk through your property
planned your rates for 2020-2021? Have
deliver the service level guests are now
and view it through the eyes of a guest.
you reviewed your booking terms and
looking for.
Start outside at the entrance, walk the
conditions as well as your cancellation
perimeter and then walk through every
policy? Remember now is the time to
8. We are in this together
part of your property. Check every area,
offer
publishing
This is also a time of opportunity for the
those that are guest facing and those
rates through to the end of 2021 as many
guesthouse community and associated
areas that are not. Enter every room,
travelers may choose to travel later.
businesses on each local island. It’s the
open every door, cupboard, window.
Check your website, is it up to date? Is
time to build strong relationships by
Check every tap, shower, toilet. Review
your image gallery inspiring and current?
working together and not in competition
every plug socket, light switch. Are they
Likewise review all OTA platforms in the
during the recovery process.
working and in good condition? Check
same manner. Have you been in contact
for areas that may need painting or
with your key local and international
Creating a reopening strategic plan will
decoration. These details as owners you
agents? Have you shared all relevant
take time and consideration. However
may not normally see but are noted by
information with them in order that they
it is time well spent as a clear plan will
guests.
can market and promote your property
reassure guests, allowing them to enjoy
with confidence?
the experience you offer. Your team will
3. Cleaning
flexibility.
Consider
be happy knowing that their employer and
Once all maintenance and renovation has
6. Communication
been completed perform a deep clean
Hopefully you have continued to keep
in turn will lead to a positive customer
even if this was performed as part of your
in touch with your guests through social
experience for your guests. Finally, you
close down operation. Work from top to
media and your website. Now will be the
will be supporting your community and
bottom ensuring no corners are missed.
time to display the preparations you are
rebuilding your local economy.
Pull out furniture, clean inside cupboards
making in order to welcome them back,
and drawers. Follow HPA and WHO
building up to your final plans in regard to
cleaning guidelines, everything must
health and safety and social distancing.
place of work cares about them, which
TOURISM MARKETER’S SECTION 53
WATER SPORTS BUSINESSES - HOW TO GET BACK IN THE WATER
purchase in the beginning. So plan in
Whilst I believe that health and safety in
advance to make sure you won’t run out
our new world is a shared responsibility,
of it.
it is still important to reassure guests that
BY GUEST WRITER RUTH FRANKLIN
you have policies and processes in place.
3. Team Preparation
This will assist to manage and respond
Train and educate your team on your
to their concerns. As a business you
new protocols so that everyone is on the
may also want to consider insurance and
same page. Their actions and behaviors,
waivers that may assist in protecting your
how they demonstrate the required
business if funds allow.
health
and
safety
and
cleanliness
guidelines is important to the success of
Don’t forget that we are in this together.
your operation. If they are not trained
I would encourage water-sport and
effectively on processes and procedures
excursion providers on local islands to
they will not be able to deliver the service
work together and not in competition.
level guests are now looking for.
Who knows for some small operators,
4. Test it Out Implement your operational changes as
merging businesses together may be the road to a long term successful recovery process.
a team and check that you can provide a safe but fun experience. Review every activity so that you understand that all aspects of the guest experience follow social distancing, cleanliness as well as general safety.
5. Communication Be transparent and inform guests about what you are doing and about anything that in the future they should expect to What will be the guest capacity
do for themselves. Prepare public notices
towards recovery with the launch of phase
for each activity to ensure social
highlighting the new ‘rules’ and ensure
1 easement of lockdown restrictions,
distancing?
they are visible in key areas.
This week the Maldives took another step
which in turn will have created a more
•
•
optimistic feeling about the future.
How will you clean/disinfect boats between use?
•
How will you ensure life jackets
Whilst it may yet be some time before
and rented equipment is cleaned/
local islands see international tourists, I
disinfected between use?
am sure there are many locals who are
•
looking forward to the moment they can travel once again between islands and
Will guests need to bring their own equipment?
•
Will you be able to provide tandem
enjoy a weekend away from their city
activities if this is something you have
homes or indeed visit family and friends.
offered previously? •
With this in mind it is time for water sport and excursion providers to start considering what steps they need to take to be able to open for business. The
How will you provide the equipment to guests?
•
Will the wearing of masks and/or gloves be compulsory?
domestic market will be the first to want
2. Equipment
to use their services, I know for sure I do!
Now is the time to ensure all your equipment is in good working order. Is
1. Health & Safety
it safe to use? Is it in good condition?
It goes without saying that the final
Is it stored correctly? Is it stored in
guidelines
when
an environment where it will remain
published will need to be reviewed to
disinfected once the cleaning process
ensure all requirements are met. However,
is completed? Does it comply with any
in the meantime start to consider and
necessary safety guidelines issued by
develop health and safety protocols for
the manufacturer or associated activity
your team and your guests that are specific
governing body or associations?
for
Safe
Tourism
to the activities you offer. This will assist in keeping everything and under control.
Will you be required to have any
These protocols may include but are not
mandatory health and safety equipment
limited to the following:
available? This might not be easy to
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Ruth Franklin is the Co-Founder of local tour company Secret Paradise. Secret Paradise has provided local island experiences since 2012. They annually audit their partner accommodation properties and are currently finalizing a program to support their guesthouse partners in being ready for business.
54 TOURISM MARKETER’S SECTION
FOREIGN LANGUAGES NEEDED TO STAY AHEAD IN TOURISM, ACCORDING TO EXPERTS heavily
Muaviyath Umar, Executive Director of
Director of Training, Development and
don’t
dependent on welcoming people from
Villa Hotels & Resorts further added that
Quality Assurance of Lux* Resorts and
markets due to their stable economies.
around the globe, it is important for the
without the Chinese market, it would
Hotel seconded this. He highlighted that
Though UK is strong too, English being
people in the industry to be trained in
be hard to keep consistent occupancy
in the last three years Italy as a traditional
a language spoken by everyone, German
the language the holidaymakers speak.
percentage in the industry (especially the
market has given Maldives good strength
could probably be the most likely market
In a property such as hotel or resort,
market distribution spreads among all
and value plus they were consistent and
which will last, in his opinion. “Also when
the
categories of properties including guest
good spenders too. So he is certain that
German is taken as a language, you are
house etc).
Italians will be one of the markets which
covering three major countries in Europe
will bounce back quickly post COVID-19.
(Germany, Austria and Switzerland),” he
Maldives,
being
industry
a
country
professionals
must
be
comfortable with the language they use to interact with the travelers.
“One market which is very resistant to
usually
hit
German
speaking
added.
So to have a better understanding of
the language and preference percentage
German
what language is most important to the
is higher to acknowledge their own
Shuhan Ahmed, General Manager at
Director of Sales and Marketing at the
destination, we asked around some
language. Furthermore, comparison to
Milaidhoo Island Maldives believes that
newly renovated Maafushivaru, Rizma
industry experts.
most of the markets reasonable effort
German market has been the most stable
Waleed agreed to this as well. She
needs to be put in convincing and they
market for Maldives and the recessions
however highlighted that UK, Austria
Chinese Looking at the top 10 markets to Maldives,
always seek for more information,” he said.
China leads. A senior professional in one of Maldives leading resort explained that
Ibrahim Mirnan Maniu, Cluster Assistant
China is the “new future” (once again). He
Sales Manager at Crossroads Maldives
explained that China will continue to be
said, “Chinese because biggest market
the largest source market (as a country)
and even if India surpasses it doesn’t
but we need to overcome the massive
matter, most Indians speak English.”
language barrier.
Italian
Director of Human Resources at Symphony
Italy is the biggest European market
Maldives, Isha Waleed, President of
to Maldives tourism. So it should be
Guesthouses of Maldives Moosa Nasih,
the sought out language from Europe,
Director of Sales at Intercontinental
according to Mauroof Ahmed, Business
Maldives Ibrahim Inad and another travel
Development
industry marketer agreed to this as well.
Collection. Afeef Hussain, the Regional
Manager
at
Coco
TOURISM MARKETER’S SECTION 55 and Switzerland is equally important and
Baglioni Hotels & Resorts further added
should be Russian language. He further
followed by Russian, Italian and German.
settled with languages from Europe as it
that we are slowly conquering the Russian
recommended Spanish.
However, it was difficult for all resorts to
is the most important market by region.
market and we need to learn the language
agree on one specific language as a must
to be able to better serve them. Another
Director of Sales & Marketing at Crown
have. The importance of which language
experienced sales personnel pointed
& Champa Resorts, Ahmed Shaheen
differ from one resort to another. Other
Russian is one of the global language
out that we don’t have Russian GRO at
suggested either Chinese, Italy or French
languages suggested by the respondents
which covers huge territory, even outside
Maldivian resorts whose sole purpose for
because guest feels comfortable to travel
include Hindhi, Spanish and Arab.
Europe. On top of this their spending
being hired is as interpreters.
where there are people speaking their
Russian
power on leisure is above average and
language, serving it as a good selling
Working in hospitality industry, any one
point.
language from these can give your CV the
they love to travel around the year,
The Director of Sales at the much-
according to Hassan Zahir, Director of
anticipated
Sales at Velaa Private Island. Hussain
Islands, Nasrulla Adam also agreed that
Majority believes Chinese should be
Hameed, Human Resources Director at
Russia is an important market and it
the go-to language in the industry,
Patina
Maldives,
Fari
cutting edge and help you in taking your career to the next level.
LEARNING MARKET TRENDS IN HOSPITALITY AGAINST COVID-19 IN MALDIVES BY VARUN DEWAN 48.86% by the 1st of June. This number jumps to 91%, beginning of July. This
Maldives Market Rate Trends In the other image, you can also see that
increases further to 93.18% by the 12th
the prices have been changed downward
of July. These price trends are fluid and
between 0 to 20%. These indicate that
a combination of the current restrictions
the market’s ability to pay will take a
clubbed with an optimistic outlook a few
serious beating and that has already been
months into the future and will have to
factored in the pricing. Discounting is not
be tracked closely. The reason for that
the best strategy and is a quick race to
is simple, the lockdowns will be followed
the bottom so you must factor them but
either by cautious optimism or revenge
not necessarily discount to the same
vacations and in both cases, the market
degree. your rate positioning will test you
needs to indicate the world is back to
and every decision to lowering prices in
normal. After having stayed at home,
the market will tempt you to follow but
people will spend more time researching
that does not lead to profitability and as a
the offers and options and you have a
revenue manager you already knew that.
Hotels’ pricing is a widely used measure
On room availability on third party
beautiful opportunity to change your
to measure a market’s demand and
websites, we noticed that the increase in
packages to suit that segment.
prevailing supply situation and which one
supply coincides with month ends. This
is weighing in.
looks like a decision that lacks the resolve and has been applied in the absence of
Taking this in the context of the hospitality
a definitive direction. As per this report,
business in the Maldives, our research
collated by OTA Insight, the end of April
examines the prevailing rates trends
saw a room availability jump from 22.73%
and hotel availability across this popular
to 42.05% with nominal fluctuations
beach and luxury holiday destination.
during the course of the month leading to
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Varun Dewan is the Founder & Commercial Director of ProfitableRooms. He has been working with hotels/resorts in revenue management and to increase profitability
56 TTM HIGHLIGHTS
TTM HIGHLIGHTS OF 2019
TTM HIGHLIGHTS 57
L E A D I N G T R AV E L T R A D E B U S I N E SS R E S O U R C E OF MALDIVES
TTM MALDIVES
TTM TRAVEL SUMMIT
TTM AWARDS & GALA
TTM+
BEST OF MALDIVES
TTM ONLINE
TTM PERIODICAL
T R A V E L T R A D E M A L D I V E S . C O M