The Islandchief, Travel Tabloid 28 | November Issue 2018

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VOL 28 | NOVEMBER 2018 | www.islandchief.com

Email : news@islandchief.com | Hotline : +960 7986626

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Dominik Ruhl

Chief Operating Officer - LUX* Resorts & Hotels

Exploring a Lighter Aspect of Hospitality

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AVIATION PRESS

GoAir Launches Direct flights to Male’ from Mumbai and Delhi for Indian travellers to reach the sunny side of Maldives and Maldivians the possibility to reach Mumbai and Delhi more conveniently.

Inaugural flight was celebrated at the Velana International Airport and a A special function was held at Hotel Jen, Male’, where GoAir appointed awardwinning company Voyages Maldives as the General Sales Agent (GSA) in the Maldives.

GoAir has launched its nonstop services between Velana International Airport (VIA) Male’ and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (Mumbai) and Indira Gandhi International Airport (New Delhi).

The inaugural flight of GoAir landed in Velana International Airport on 14th October, Sunday. GoAir will run 03 direct flight services per week between

Mumbai – Male – Mumbai and 02 direct flight services per week between Delhi – Male – Delhi, both at an affordable return fare.

“This new route to the Maldives continues our purpose of connecting smart travellers to what’s important in their lives”, said Vice President of GoAir, Mr. Arujun Dasgupta.

“This route will make it easier and faster

“We are excited to see GoAir expanding its presence to the Maldives,” said Chairman of Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), Mr. Ibrahim Faizal, speaking at the ceremony. “This provides Indian and Maldivian passengers with an easy and convenient option to connect between Maldives and Indian two major cities, which will increase the traffic of tourists to both countries.”

The Maldives is GoAir’s 2nd International destination from Mumbai and Delhi. In addition, GoAir recently began its international operations during October. The inaugural flights were to Phuket from New Delhi and

Mumbai and will be operating three direct flights per week.

GoAir is a low-cost international carrier based in Mumbai, India. It is owned by the Indian business conglomerate Wadia Group. In October 2017 it was the fifth largest airline in India with an 8.4% passenger market share. It commenced operations in November 2005 and operates a fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft in all economy configuration.

As of October 2018, GoAir operates to 25 destinations. GoAir has a domestic network of 23 destinations and a small international network of 2 destinations in Thailand and Maldives. GoAir also plans to connect their international destinations with Bangalore in the future. The airline has a total of 230 daily flights and approximately 1,600 weekly flights. The airline maintains hubs at Delhi, Kolkata, Bangalore and Mumbai airports.

Universal Aviation Maldives to Begin Operations in November 2018 Universal Aviation, the worldwide ground support division of Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. has announced that its newest location, Universal Aviation Maldives, will begin operations by the end of November 2018.

“Universal Aviation Maldives will support local business aviation traffic but just as importantly will be a local advocate for the industry in the Maldives,” said Charlie Mularski, Senior Vice President, International, Universal.

Universal Aviation Maldives is headquartered at Velana International Airport (VRMM) and is a joint venture location with Inner Maldives Holidays, a multi-award winning travel company providing tourism and travel services to the booming tourism industry in the Maldives since 1998. Upon opening, Universal Aviation Maldives will become Universal Aviation’s eighth location in the Asia-Pacific region.

“Tourism is a major reason for much of the corporate jet aviation traffic to the Maldives,” said Abdulla Ghiyas, Managing Director, Universal Aviation Maldives.

“Our team will work closely with the Maldives government to identify opportunities to drive traffic, and improve infrastructure and access while also benefiting the local economy.”

“Our team members are trained to Universal Aviation’s ground support standards, but are also experts in local tourism and can help arrange discounts for crews on local hotels, air transport, and tours.”

Universal Aviation, the ground support division of Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc., has more than 40 locations in 20 countries, including 19 in the Asia-Pacific region with the addition of Universal Aviation Maldives.

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AVIATION PRESS

Oman Air Relaunches Flights to Maldives Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman has relaunched its service between Muscat and Malé in the Maldives on 28th October 2018. The service is operated by the new B737 –MAX 8 aircraft.

With a flight time of 4 hours, the first flight WY 383 departed Muscat at 08:50 on 28th October and arrived in Velana International Airport at 13:30 local time. The first Oman Air flight from Maldives WY 384 departed at 1850 on the 28th October and arrived in Muscat International Airport at 0035, on 29th October.

This new route will be serviced by Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft which has been designed to offer exceptional performance, flexibility and efficiency.

Configured with 162 seats in a two-class configuration: 12 in business and 150 in economy with significant enhancements across both cabins, the MAX aircraft is an example of Oman Air’s commitment

to continually upgrading its products and services to deliver guests’ satisfaction.

Oman Air flights from Muscat to Maldives will operate on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday and the flights from Maldives to Muscat will operate on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

The resumption of the Maldives service comes at an exciting time, as Oman Air recently started their flights to Istanbul in June, Casablanca in July and Moscow on October 30th.

Oman Air is the flagship carrier of the sultanate and an Official 4 Star Airline

(Skytrax 2011). Founded in 1993, the airline has since witnessed massive growth and has played a major role in making Muscat an important traffic hub in the Middle East, supporting the commercial, industrial and tourism sectors.

Oman Air’s fleet and network have continued to grow. This expansion has been aided by continued investment in Oman Air’s award winning onboard experience, exemplified by the MAX aircraft. Oman Air is currently undergoing an exciting fleet and network expansion programme, which will see the airline operate up to 70 aircraft to over 60 destinations by 2022.

The airline currently operates direct international flights from Muscat to Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai, Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam, Madina and Kuwait, in the Gulf region, as well as Cairo, Amman, Tehran, Mashhad, Najaf, Zanzibar and Dar Es Salaam within the wider Middle East/Africa region.

In addition, Oman Air flies to eleven destinations in India, Karachi, Islamabad and Lahore in Pakistan; Kathmandu in Nepal and Colombo in Sri Lanka. The airline also flies to Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Jakarta in the Far East, Guangzhou in China and Nairobi in Kenya. Its European destinations are London, Manchester, Milan, Munich, etc.

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AVIATION PRESS

Villa Air Flyme to Resume Flight Services to Addu City and Fuvahmulah on November Villa Air Flyme has announced the decision to relaunch flight services to Addu City and Fuvahmulah in the South of Maldives on 15th November 2018.

In order to start its services, the airline has announced job openings for operation assistants.

Interested candidates are to submit their CV with the filled out job application forms to the airline before 1st November 2018.

Flyme previously had scheduled flight services to Addu and Fuvamulah till the airline’s services were discontinued in early 2015 due to unforeseen circumstance. The local airline currently offers scheduled flights only to Maamigili in Alifu Dhaal Atoll and Dharavandhoo in Baa Atoll.

FlyMe’s plan to restart flights last year came after they added a new 48-seater added to their fleet.

Flyme is a domestic Airline based in the Maldives operated by Villa Air which is part of the Villa Group of Companies. Flyme provides scheduled flights to domestic airports, serving both the local as well as the international markets. The company’s

objective is to provide an exceptional service to all passengers travelling on its airline.

The face of domestic air travel in the Maldives is fast changing with Flyme providing new ways for people to travel in the country. As a privately owned airline, Flyme has the freedom to develop products and services to suit the market requirements. With new airports coming into service every year, even the most far-flung atoll can now be reached in comfort and style.

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NEW APPOINTMENTS

Michael Melzer Appointed as General Manager of Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has announced the appointment of Michael Melzer as the General Manager of Mӧvenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives, the stunning new sustainably designed island resort which is scheduled to open its doors in November 2018.

this beautiful resort maximises its incredible potential and exceeds guests’ expectations.”

Mövenpick has deep roots in the food and beverage industry and this heritage aligns perfectly with Michael’s own passion for the culinary arts.

“We are delighted to welcome Michael Melzer to Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts as we prepare to make our debut in the Maldives. With his expert knowledge of the Asia Pacific region and experience of managing high-end resorts, Michael is the perfect person to lead our first property in this idyllic archipelago,” commented Gerard Hotelier, Vice President Operations for Asia.

Michael who has more than 35 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, started his career as a chef in Germany and later became a Food & Beverage specialist at several hotels. Subsequent roles included Director of Event Management, Hotel Operations Manager and Director of Operations, reporting directly to General Managers and owners.

This gave Michael a comprehensive view “Mӧvenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives of hotel operations prior to becoming is one of our company’s most exciting a General Manager in 2010. He has openings to date. Michael’s deep passion successfully managed properties in the for hospitality, analytical vision and Maldives, Philippines and Vietnam. motivational skills will ensure that

“I am extremely excited to take on this new challenge. The Maldives is a breathtaking destination which I have been privileged to experience several times in my career.” Michael said.

“Joining such a stunning property, managed by one of most famous names in the hospitality industry, made my decision to return to the country.I look forward to working with the team at Mövenpick as we prepare for the hotel’s official opening in November this year.”

Michael was born in Germany and has qualifications from Cornell University

and Dale Carnegie Hong Kong.

Nestled on a private island, Mӧvenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives will feature 72 overwater pool villas, 30 beach pool suites and three beach spa pool residences. All the accommodation options including private swimming pools and while the resort is designed as a destination for relaxation and rejuvenation with a high degree of privacy, it will also feature recreational facilities to suit a wide range of guests from honeymooners to adventureseeking families.

Hideaway Beach Maldives Appoints Christian Szabo as the General Manager A results driven and perceptive professional with 25 years’ experience in the luxury hotel industry, Christian Szabo, originally from Austria, is set to improve the resort’s unique and effortless luxury experiences offered to guests.

“I am proud and excited to be working with a diverse team of talented and passionate staff to increase the footprint of Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa on the market and to continue to deliver exceptional service to our customers to make their stay in the Maldives an unforgettable experience.” Said Christian Szabo, who is very much looking forward to his new assignment.

Hideaway Beach Maldives has announced the appointment of Christian Szabo as General Manager of the resort.

Before joining Hideaway, Christian Szabo worked in countries such as Russia, the Czech Republic, Germany and his native Austria. His experience includes working for brands such as The Ritz-Carlton & Marriott International and most recently for privately owned luxury properties. Given his Sales & Marketing background and experience as General Manager, Christian Szabo will be a great addition to the team at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa.

Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is located on the crescent-shaped Dhonakulhi Island in the north of the Maldives belonging to the Haa Alifu Atoll; 290 km from the capital Malé. Following a $50million investment in the redevelopment of the whole-island and an extensive renovation of the property, previously known as Island Hideaway, the fivestar resort offers guests the luxury of space and privacy across 297,000 square metres.

The 103 luxury villas fall into eight categories ranging from beachfront to over-water.

Each villa has been carefully positioned to offer peace, comfort and privacy to guests.

Home to the first fully functional marina in the Maldives, due to its unique reef system, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa boasts an enviable dive spot close by.

The resort offers an extensive programme of wellness and sporting experiences, vast culinary offering, and one of the largest spas in the Maldives. Characterised by its intimate ambience and remote location, the island resort stays true to its name and offers guests ‘a true hideaway’.

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Surrounded by nothing but turquoise lagoon which melts into sapphire blue, the island of Kihavah and her pure white sands rise up out of the ocean like a mirage.

Located on the Baa Atoll in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas invites you to imagine your own paradise. Snorkel with mantas and Hawksbill sea turtles.

Stargaze into the night. Dine on a deserted sandbank or beneath the ocean’s surface.

For more information and reservations please contact +960 664 4111 or reservations.maldives@anantara.com LIFE IS A JOURNEY.

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ISLAND PRESS

Festive Revelry at Niyama Private Islands Maldives

One&Only Reethi Rah Hosts Pop-Up of Acclaimed Plant Based Restaurant-Yellow

Tradition meets glamour at Niyama Private Islands Maldives this festive season with Christmas sparkle mirroring its lush tropical setting.

One&Only Reethi Rah welcomed innovative plant-based restaurant Yellow for an exclusive pop-up event last October at the resort’s garden-totable restaurant Botanica.

demand for contemporary vegetarian dining.

The renowned Australian restaurant, Yellow, is run by the award-winning team behind Bentley Restaurant + Bar, Cirrus and Monopole. Chef Brent Savage re-launched Yellow’s menu in 2016 as 100% plant-based, recognising the

One & Only Reethi Rah is located in Maldives’ North Male Atoll, a 75-minute luxury yacht ride or a 45-minute speedboat ride away from Velana International Airport

“America’s Got Talent’s Hara who took the world by storm then wows with visual illusions by combining futuristic technology and classic magic. Dine as soul band A host of activities have Soul Family croons after been planned out by their 11-year residency at the resort for guests the famous Ronnie Scott’s throughout the holidays Nightclub in Soho, London catering to honeymooners, and magicians Brendan families and active solos Rodrigues and Laura alike. Guests will have the London take the floor. opportunity to wander in Countdown as fireworks the Christmas market’s burst over the ocean, stalls on December 22nd, dancing on the beach with mulled wine, eggnog until sunrise.” and festive treats, take the kids to meet Santa six A whole calendar metres below the ocean’s of visiting wellness surface on the 23rd or practitioners, guest chefs feast as a family on the and artists in residence beach on Christmas Day, keeps the islands buzzing with roast turkey and all well into January. their favourite trimmings.

According to the resort, “Witness the greatest guests will also be able show this New Year’s Eve to get into shape with Maldives has ever seen, celebrity trainer Ingrid with performers flying in Clay, find inner healing from all over the world. with acupuncturist Dr. Rui Diversity Juniors, born Loureiro or get ready for a from the incredible dance New Year makeover with collective, Diversity, ace Hollywood cosmetic Winners of British Got surgeon Dr. Alessi and Talent, bring their breath- his non-surgical facelifts. taking energy to our Artist Ibrahim Ali will beautiful beach,” the help unleash the inner resort states. painter in guests with masterclasses, while two

Michelin-starred Chef Hervé Rodriguez will tempt the palate at Edge.

Furthermore, the younger guests staying at Niyama will also get to enjoy their own fun this festive season with an amazing superhero party as well as daily activities at the kids’ club, fashion shows, scavenger hunts, and meeting the Santa who will have gifts for all.

Boasting a 24-hour spa and the world’s first underwater nightclub, the luxurious Niyama Private Islands Maldives is a tropical paradise which offers a quiet private beach and amber sunsets.Spacious and modern, the studios at Niyama Private Islands Maldives are located on the beach or over the crystal lagoon. Each villa has a secluded deck that offers pure privacy to luxuriate in al fresco rain showers, moonlit dips, or an intimate afternoon basking in the sun.

Aiming to showcase products that often gets overseen in the restaurant world, Yellow serves fresh and rare Sydney-based Chef Brent Savage, ingredients, with heirloom produce renowned for his original vegetarian sourced for outstanding boutique cuisine, served an eight-course plantdishes. Well-regarded as a key leader based contemporary menu for guests to in the industry for creating meat-free enjoy in the magical surroundings of the dishes of such high calibre, Chef Brent’s Chef’s Garden, Botanica which provided ethos is to treat vegetables as equal to an enchanting setting to complement protein and Yellow’s pure vegetarian Chef Brent’s inspired dishes. Guests menu highlights plants as significant were able to choose from options such components on the menu not to be as dining in the candle-lit al fresco overlooked. potager amidst the fresh vegetables and herbs to being surrounded by hundreds One&Only Reethi Rah offers guests of coloured blooms in the Orchid House. supreme and private luxury amid nature’s tropical magic. Surrounded “We are thrilled to collaborate with by the crystal blue wonders of the world-class Chef Brent Savage to bring Indian Ocean, the superb all-villa his innovative and healthy menu to Maldives resort provides an unrivalled Botanica. This exciting collaboration level of style, choice and personalised will inspire our guests, nourish exploration. Sleek and spectacular, their wellbeing and further elevates with unprecedented privacy, One&Only Botanica’s unique dining experience.”

Reethi Rah inspires extraordinary Said Jan B. Tibaldi, One&Only Reethi journeys for the soul.

Rah, General Manager.

For his first collaboration in The Built over the water, Tapasake Maldives, Chef Brent offered guests Restaurant serves modern Japanese of One&Only Reethi Rah a taste of his cuisine, while the beachside Fanditha contemporary cuisine, serving inventive Restaurant offers Middle Eastern canapés alongside cocktails on 22nd food and champagne. Reethi offers October, prior to the exclusive popMediterranean cuisine. Other dining up dining event at Botanica on 23rd options include Rah Bar and 24-hour October. in-villa dining.

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ISLAND PRESS

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Unveils Collection of Luxury Experiences Exclusive to Guests of THE MURAKA

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island has unveiled four exclusive and customisable experiences menus at THE MURAKA, the first-of-its-kind undersea residence set to debut this November.

THE MURAKA offers a transformative journey in one of the world’s most breathtaking natural environments as guests are fully immersed in the wonders of the abundant marine ecosystem above and below the Indian Ocean. While pushing the boundaries of engineering, THE MURAKA is not only defined by its physical structure but even more so by the wholly unique offerings globally connected guests can enjoy while staying in the innovative residence.

“As the first-of-its-kind residence with dynamic accommodations both above and below the surface of the water, THE MURAKA is an extraordinary vehicle for a truly immersive journey into nature which cannot be found anywhere else in the world,” said Stefano Ruzza, General Manager of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island.

ultimately create a meaningful and personalised journey in the Maldives and immerse themselves in a variety of transcendent experiences above and below the surface of the ocean.

Supporting the resort’s philosophy of innovation and its dedication to creating extraordinary moments in the heart of the Maldives, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island will offer a collection of four experience menus available exclusively to those staying at THE MURAKA.

“Through a variety of curated and captivating offerings, we will maximise the potential of this incredible residence to bring unique travel experiences to our Tailored to the unique desires of valued guests.” different travellers with experiences ranging from adventure, food and Guests who book THE MURAKA will work entertainment to wellness, culture and with a dedicated Reservations Team sustainability, the menus are titled as to curate their own journey, borrowing The Wanderers, The Flavours, The Soul inspiration from the four menus to and The Thrill

Young travellers who stay at THE MURAKA will find that most experiences from across all four core menus are easily customisable to suit their interests as well as the opportunity to create entirely new experiences through the MURAKA kids Edu-tainment menu designed to captivate their imaginations.

A celebration of design and the human spirit, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island expresses an accord of form, function and innovation in driving hospitality trends that have set the benchmark in its style.

Six Senses Laamu Rethinks Shrimp Sustainable shrimp is a very elusive catch. That was a significant element of a message from Callum Roberts, professor of Marine Conservation at the University of York, on his recent visit to Six Senses Laamu where he discussed sustainable fisheries management in Laamu Atoll.

using some of the most a powerful statement in destructive fishing methods sustainability. on the planet,” says Professor Roberts.

“My team is working on some exciting new dishes to “Until there are truly delight our guests. We also sustainable alternatives have a variety of sustainable available, there is no seafood options featured on question that we should the menu, such as fish caught consider avoiding eating by local fishermen right here shrimp and prawns. Whether in Laamu Atoll, that don’t wild or farmed, they are carry the same environmental “They look innocuous and produced at an immense cost price tag.” Says Stefan taste great, but shrimp and to the environment and other Goechke, Executive Chef who prawns are sadly some of wildlife.” welcomes the challenge of the most environmentally adapting the resort’s menus damaging seafood you can As of September 2018, Six so that guests won’t even eat. Bottom trawling with fine Senses Laamu will no longer notice the absence of prawns. mesh nets for wild prawns serve shrimp or prawns in causes habitat destruction either its guest restaurants Since 2016, Six Senses Laamu and enormous losses of or staff canteen. This has partnered with the non-target species, many of will amount to an annual Blue Marine Foundation to which are threatened. In a reduction of around 13,227 increase the sustainability worst case, prawn farms can pounds (6,000 kilograms) in of grouper fisheries in destroy valuable wetlands shrimp and prawn purchases. the Maldives. Blue Marine and the animals are usually This represents a small dent Foundation is now seeking to fed on wild fish caught in the global demand, but establish a locally managed

marine protected area in Laamu Atoll in consultation with government and community leaders. The goal is to protect areas important for the aggregation of spawning groupers and other vulnerable marine life. ”Our partnerships with international NGOs and their expertise are crucial to achieving our goals in sustainability and we hope to, in turn, be able to contribute and share knowledge to inspire others. Along the lines of James Keller’s quote, ‘a candle loses nothing by lighting another candle,’ we hope that sharing learnings for a sustainable future will outweigh the removal of shrimp and prawns on our menus.”

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DOMINIK RUHL

Exploring a Lighter Aspect of Hospitality Start us off by telling us bit about yourself and how you first arrived in the Maldives.

before too long I noticed how I missed the Maldives and when Naiade Resorts asked me in 2010 to take over the management of their recently opened Diva Resort I could not resist. Diva - was the management company- was going through difficult times following the recession and shortly after I started, Paul Jones - former President of One & Only Resorts, also joined the company and it was very soon after that, when we decided to make some significant changes which subsequently led to the creation of LUX* Resorts & Hotels in 2011.

I was born in Germany and started my hospitality studies back home, combining hotel school and my first working experience. Soon after graduation I was lucky enough to get a scholarship in the US, allowing me participate in a training program with Ritz Carlton in the continental US and was soon after transferred to the companies’ flagship property in Hawaii, where I held various roles from Front Office Manager to Director of Guest Services. It was during this time in Hawaii when I realized that resort operations on islands and alongside beaches was what I wanted to concentrate on.

Tell us a little bit about the LUX* rebranding project Normally when you rebrand you spend a lot of money, do a lot of marketing and renovate all of the properties but we didn't have any of that at that time as we had little cash. What we did, we had 3000 people across our properties willing to transform the experiences we wanted to offer to our guests. With their excitement and the assistance of Service Guru Ron Kaufman, we decided to break the traditional cliché of what a luxury hotel had to look and feel like.

After working in Hawaii for several years I moved to Mexico, where I had the opportunity to open two resort properties, an experience I can only recommend to any young hotelier!

A colleague at the time who was working with me at the Four Seasons in Mexico was previously working in the Maldives and recommended that I should go to the Maldives as she thought that I might like it.

So when the opportunity came in early 2000 to join the team at Hilton Rangali Island (now Conrad) I took the opportunity on a one year contract and before I knew it, one year turned into being the people offering a unique eight-een. It seems, my friend back in Mexico was spot on in her assessment of and genuine hospitality. It did not take long that Mirihi -despite only having 2 me. restaurants, one bar and a small Spatopped the list on Tripadvisor as the Back in those days, there weren't many number one resort in the country, a rank luxury resorts in the country. I think Four Seasons was the only international that it kept for many years to come.

This was achieved solely because of the five-star hotel before Hilton entered engaged and genuine team members, the Maldivian market and there was many of which still work on the island of-course Soneva Fushi who introduced their now famous barefoot luxury. Those today! Up to this day I remain thankful to Mr. Afeef and Ms. Stierli for having years marked the beginning of five-star hotels and International brands coming trusted me and allowing me to operate their property in a way that I felt would to the Maldives, an exciting trend that create lasting impressions for our guests continues today. and this experience has undoubtedly I worked at Hilton Rangali for three and shaped me in my career. a half years before being offered my first General Manager opportunity at the newly opened Mirihi Island Resort. It was working at Mirihi where I realized that luxury is not defined by the ‘hardware’, meaning the building and facilities of a property, but much rather the ‘software’,

After spending four years with Mirihi Island Resort, I joined Per Aquum to establish the brand’s operations in the Caribbean. Unfortunately the timing wasn't ideal as the global economic crisis was slowly coming into being,

In fact, the name LUX* came about as the very last thing of our rebranding and came as a result of the working title of the rebranding project, which was “Island light”.

We wanted to create a hospitality brand that portrayed a lighter and brighter atmosphere. The word lux comes from the Latin “lucis" which means light - it doesn't come from the word “luxury” at all as many people may assume. The Asterisk behind the name is there to remind us to the fact that we want to be lighter and brighter in anything we do.

hence these expansion plans were abandoned a year later, allowing me to once again return to the Maldives, this time with Anantara.

How did you land your job at LUX*?

After a year with Anantara, I left the Maldives to operate a Resort and Marina on St. Lucia Island, allowing me to manage a very different type of operation as well as cater to a mostly American clientele. But I must admit that

We wanted to go back and be creative and light-hearted while also being light-footed to the environment. We wanted to bring every little bit of fun into our work and didn't want to take ourselves too seriously as we understood that guests come to these destinations just to have a good time and to get away from a stressful and routine life.We developed further on that and came up with what

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We are very busy finishing off our second property in the Maldives. LUX* North Male’ Atoll will be a small and intimate island with only 67 villas, ranging between 200 and 1000 square meters.

For this property we exchanged the traditional thatched-roofed villas usually found in the Maldives with a variety of penthouse style villas with roof tops to play, relax and retreat. With so many new properties I feel one must stand out and dare to be different or otherwise risk to drown in ‘the sea of sameness’.

Apart from that we just launched a new Hotel Brand ‘SALT’ and our first property opened in Mauritius just recently on November 1st with further properties due to open soon in other countries.

We also plan to grow our All Inclusive Tamassa brand and are actively looking to add a property under this brand in the Maldives hopefully soon as we see a lot of demand in this sector. A fourth urban brand will be launched in the near future allowing us to target city properties, something we have not done in the past. Construction for the first property under this brand is starting very soon with an opening scheduled for 2021.

Having worked 18 years in the Maldives Tourism Industry, what are the major

we now call our “reasons to go”. In all our properties we implemented many unexpected touches, whether it was replacing the lobbies with a Café LUX* coffee shop, our guest finding a message in the bottle, offering a London style phone booth, where guests can make free phone calls to loved ones back home or an ice cream tricycle offering an unexpected treat to the young ones, just to name a few. A lot of these surprises that we have added became an integral part of the brand. Just that shift of mindset, the shift of service delivery and the little things that we added had an immense impact on the guest experience and allowed us to really turn the company around; before too long all our hotels started to perform much better which quickly translated in financial success.

With this success we were soon able to renovate our hotels and now most of our existing properties have been or are being renewed.

As COO of the LUX* Brand tell us about your main responsibilities that operations that you oversee?

Well, on one hand it is to support our

General Managers and to ensure that the operations in all the properties work at their very best and that the experience delivered is the same across the portfolio. While we focus on incorporating the individual identity of each destination into the various hotels, we ensure that the levels of service are aligned across the group.

On the other hand we are very busy growing our brand and constantly looking for new opportunities of managing hotels. Identifying, planning and opening new properties takes a lot of time and effort but we are very proud that owners in many different destinations have now entrusted us to create amazing properties for them.

Tell us about some of the new projects the LUX* Brand is venturing into.

We work hard to identify new opportunities for growth and to expand our brand outside of the In-dian Ocean.

We currently have 11 new properties in the pipeline with upcoming openings in China, Vietnam, UAE, France and Italy, just to name a few.

developments to the industry in your perspective?

I’ll never forget the first time I came to the Maldives and being escorted to ‘the VIP lounge’ at the Maldivian Air Taxi, which was a sand floored hut with four poles and a roof! Tourism was still very simple in many ways and without mobile phones and barely any internet one would now think we lived in a different era. When we introduced wifi at Mirihi in 2003 it was so unique that even the BBC came and reported on something, which is now being considered as the very basic of any hotel. The transformation of the destination since then is quite remarkable indeed, Maldives now being widely regarded as perhaps the most luxurious tropical holiday destination in the world and with all the development happening now it is anyone’s guess what the next 10 years will bring.

I think the good thing in the Maldives is that it has not lost its identity despite the tremendous growth, something that is often the problem with other destinations. The next few years will really show whether we can continue to create and uphold this very strong identity because that’s what really makes the Maldives unique.

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Some International Brands are scheduled to commence as commercial investments in the Maldives, what are your thoughts about this?

opposed managing properties in Europe or the Middle East. Are there any major challenges that you would like to address?

Yes, it's a very big shift and I think time will tell what kind of changes this will bring to the country. I think that apart from more luxury resorts being built, the introduction of Guesthouses is a good initiative because this will attract an audience that didn't have proper access to the Maldives be-fore. Many travelers don't necessarily need the luxury but they want to get to know the culture and explore to the country, something the guest houses on local islands are perfect for. This should all for further growth across a wide range of potential future tourists.

Well, I have seen many international brands coming to the Maldives over the years trying to replicate their normal operational models and only with time realizing that a unique locale requires some important adjustments.

By now, most groups have understood this and try to get the help from experienced people who have worked in the Maldives before. It is just a very different way of operating in the Maldives and companies have to adjust to not only the environment but also to the guests’ desires to experience the Maldives first and foremost. The country is so unique to begin with.

follow up with guests throughout their stay and should something go wrong, we are pro-active in the immediate resolution. We of-course also use the usual online guest surveys like many others and closely monitor the various review platforms and act upon any potential rec-ommendations.

We have learned that the guest satisfaction translates directly into financial success and went as far as reporting on our training hours in our annual report which we send to all our shareholders.

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guest favor experiences over physical things. It is because of this that we spent countless hours on training our team members in all properties and continue our partnership with Ron Kaufman to this date; Ron having helped many other companies to excel in service delivery, the best example perhaps being Singapore Airlines, who is widely regarded as the best service airline in the world.

We recently opened LUX* Grand Gaube in Mauritius after very substantial renovation. It would have been very easy to say, "we have the newest resort with Most Maldivian properties have done the the best new facilities and restaurants!”. smart concept of service charge, because Contrary to the Maldives there are far every team member automatically knows less new openings in Mauritius so it is if the business goes well, they will somewhat easier to make an impression benefit too. This is one of the best ways with a new opening. While we created Despite the tremendous growth, in most to ensure employees to take ownership a stunning property, we never focused cases Maldives still offers the ‘One and treat the hotel as if it was their own on the hardware but solely on the guest island, one resort’ concept which the How do you keep track of the company’s business. experience and comfort and to ensure destination has become famous for. Once progress and guest satisfaction? Are that we make each moment matter for guests reach their resort they don't know there any specific metric systems that Looking at the different approaches our guests. One year later this seems to what's happening around the rest of the you found useful? taken by the hospitality brands across have paid off quite well. country and while peak season is very the world to create a memorable crowded in most touristic destinations, Many! But in the end it is very simple, experience for guest what do you feel is When we created the brand we at one this is not felt in the Maldives and guests if the guests are happy, the company extremely important to keep in mind? point realized that we are not really in still can enjoy the remote island feel will be successful and the financials will the hotel or resort business, but are that they are looking for. This is and will follow. It really is as simple as that!

Creating the best guest experience! I in fact in the time business because always be something that can’t easily be think less and less people are looking people give us their precious time, of cop-ied by other destinations.

We make sure that in all our hotels the at the hardware. Ten years ago it was which most people have very little! So if general manager or the deputy general about the ‘bling’ and you had to have the guests depart with a positive feeling that Share with us some of the unique manager greet guests immediately upon latest technology and the most luxurious their time was well spent and that their aspects of managing an international arrival which is a very important moment amenities for instance, but now these holiday was worthwhile, then we did our brand specifically in the Maldives as that creates that first connection. We things have become less important and job.

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NEW OPENINGS

Sun Aqua Iru Veli Set to Open in November 2018

Sun Aqua Iru Veli, the fifth resort by Sun Siyam Resorts and its third property under the brand Sun Aqua is will officially open its doors to guest in November 2018.

Iru Veli is a five-star premium all-inclusive resort of 125 villas and suites, all with private pools. All villas, whether couples’ suites or extended family villas, feature vistas across the Indian Ocean in a true Maldivian style.

Sun Aqua brand is a visionary creation from Sun Siyam, one of the most forwardthinking and dynamic hospitality companies in the Maldives.

With Maldivian entrepreneur Ahmed Siyam Mohamed at the helm, Sun Siyam aims to create a collection of hotel and resort brands across the Indian Ocean and Asia infused with his uniquely passionate and colourful spirit.

True to the Sun Aqua brand, the new resort incorporates a laid-back and stylish design with a playful vibe featuring an infinity pool, a fully equipped recreation Sun Siyam in the Maldives, including The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives, centre, a variety of activities and water sports such as jet ski, windsurfing, fun rides, Olhuveli Beach & Spa Maldives and Sun Aqua Vilu Reef the forthcoming Sun catamaran sailing and more.

Siyam World. Properties in Sri Lanka include the Sun Aqua the forthcoming The Sun Siyam Kalpitiya.

Dining options include an all-day dining restaurant with an international menu, a grill restaurant set on the beach with a focus on fresh seafood and meat dishes, and an over-water restaurant with Italian specialities. There is also the option of making dinner a private affair with the resort’s destination dining.

As an added flavour, Middle Eastern guests will be happy to learn that the Sun Aqua Signature, the premium all-inclusive plan, includes one daily shisha per couple at the Shisha Lounge free of charge.

Furthermore, a Sun Aqua Spa situated over the resort’s lagoon as an over-water spa will offer guests a variety of treatments combining western and eastern philosophies with its six treatment pavilions and hydrotherapy area.

The exclusive resort located on the island of Aluvifushi, a private island for guests only in the heart of the South Nilandhe Atoll can be reached by a quick 40-minute seaplane ride from Malè and the international airport.

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NEW OPENINGS

Award-winning Crown & Champa Resorts to Open Two New Properties in Lhaviyani Atoll

ONYX Hospitality Second Property

Award-winning Crown & Champa Resorts (CCR) will be adding two new resorts, Kudadoo Maldives Private Island

by Hurawalhi and Innahura Maldives Resort in Lhaviyani Atoll of Maldives by December 2018.

These new openings will sum up to total of 9 resorts in the collection, offering a truly diverse guest experience with unique features and services from each resort.

As the first top-end 5-star, truly all-inclusive, resort in the Maldives, Kudadoo ensures a secluded getaway purposefully crafted for an exclusive experience and luxury redefined. The private island comes alive with effortless adventures with the motto ‘anything, anytime, anywhere’. Personal butlers are available 24 hours a day to assist in making this possible by facilitating authentic experiences that capture the senses.

The resort comprises of just 15 over-water Ocean Residences, each with a 44 sqm terrace pool and additional accommodation for guests’ personal staff as part of the seamless experience.

“With Kudadoo, we wanted to create an experience that would reflect the natural beauty of the Maldives while being environmentally conscious. The resort is purely powered by solar panels and innovates the all-inclusive landscape in the Maldives,” says Martin Vossen, CEO of Crown & Champa Resorts.

young at heart.

“We wanted to open up the Maldives to a whole new market, in order to ensure Innahura is an affordable option we decided to give travellers the quintessential Maldives holiday alongside the power to choose what they want in their holiday AI package,” Martin explains.

“The AI Easy package was created as an essential selection of food, drinks and non-motorised activities, as a result, the resort doesn’t follow the traditional AI package, which is filled with things guests don’t really need and don’t always use or enjoy. The new AI Easy package allows guests to choose what they want as extras, fit this into their budget and have a minimal fuss getaway.”

The resort offers a cost-effective option that includes an easy atmosphere, laid back environment and a touch of local Maldivian flavours. The All-inclusive Easy programme is an affordable package designed with this approach in mind, where guests can enjoy a hassle free holiday and the option to add their favourite drinks, snacks, experiences and activities to their package.

Both resorts further accentuate the growing collection of resorts, with the aim to cater to a diverse range of travel needs, experiences and preferences in the Maldives. Guest will be able to choose from 3-Star to 5-Star, boutique and private island destinations for their holiday, all offering the best value-for-money and exceptional service that Crown & Champa Resorts is known for.

“With the introduction of an all-inclusive that covers everything on the resort. The resort will also offer the Crown & Champa Resorts “CCR” is a trade name for a first Himalayan Salt Room to the Maldives at the wellness group of Resorts in the Republic of the Maldives, owned spa.” and operated by various Maldivian and foreign partners, whose common interest is to work together to achieve Innahura introduces a more affordable experience of the better business performance.

Maldives. This newly built 3-star island resort boasts 78 Beach Bungalows complemented by an overwater bar, CCR currently manages one 5-Star and five 4 1/2-Star main bar and a wholesome buffet style restaurant at the Resorts and one 3-Star City Hotel in Male’. shore – a getaway for the fun loving young and naturally

ONYX Hospitality Group, one of Asia’s leading hotel management companies, has signed an agreement with a joint venture company led

by Panchshil Realty to launch “OZO Maldives,” a 200-villa private island resort on a secluded island in the Raa Atoll, located North-west of the Maldivian Capital - Male’ City Scheduled to open in the third quarter of 2020, OZO Maldives will bear all the signatures which define an OZO property including an enhanced sleep experience, smart connectivity of personal devices in both private spaces and public areas, and curated destination and activity tips by enthusiastic and informed team members.

“We are excited to be taking OZO to the Maldives, a destination once reserved exclusively for the ultra-luxury segment. OZO Maldives will be a great showcase of locally sourced craftsmanship and environmental education. Serving as a strong complement to Amari Havodda Maldives located in the South, this new opening will give ONYX Hospitality Group the opportunity of offering two compelling luxury and mid-scale options in this popular paradise destination.” Said Douglas Martell, President and Chief Executive Officer, ONYX Hospitality Group.

Of the 200 villas at OZO Maldives, 60 villas will be located overwater while 140 villas will be located on the beach, with 50 beach villas offering larger family friendly layouts and private plunge pools. Many of the villas will also be either interconnecting or configured with dual key access, to offer flexibility for families and groups of friends travelling together.

The resort will feature design elements and experience touch points inspired by a fictitious castaway explorer named Sebastian King III, an artist and amateur sailor who was shipwrecked and lived alone on the island for -

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NEW OPENINGS

Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort to Officially Open Doors to Guests

Group Announces Its in Maldives eight years before allowing himself to be discovered. OZO Maldives will immerse travellers in a reinterpretation of the legacy he left behind through a series of structures, shelters and landmarks Sebastian creatively constructed from island-sourced raw materials and flotsam washed ashore over the years.

The island’s large size and natural untouched terrain also offer activities that are especially tailored for families including adventure and biking trails, a kids’ camp site, a pitch and putt golf course and various natural and environmental features to appeal to travellers of all ages.

elements which has made OZO a compelling and highquality midscale offering.

We look forward to adding ONYX to the growing list of international hotel partners we have relationships with, and to working with them on the opening of this property.”

Said Ranjit Batra, President, Hospitality Management of Panchshil Realty, a majority shareholder of the project ownership consortium.

OZO is a smart, simple and savvy midscale hotel brand offering an enhanced sleep experience and seamless connectivity for travellers who are keen to embark on a deeper exploration of the destination. Since the Other facilities include OZO’s opening of the first OZO in Hong signature EAT all-day-dining Kong, the brand has generated restaurant best known for consistently positive feedback energising breakfasts, a and continues to exceed specialty ‘sunset experience’ midscale accommodation restaurant, a rustic and informal expectations. OZO is currently ‘Victory Bar’ and floating lagoon operates in Hong Kong, Koh pavilions and jungle tree-decks Samui, Colombo and Kandy, with for private dinners. There will new hotels being developed in also be an island farm run by Pattaya, Phuket, Johor Bahru, Maldivian islanders, offering Penang and the Maldives. guests natural and fresh organic produce in a unique market Based in Bangkok, ONYX garden dining experience. The Hospitality Group has a resort will also feature Maai growing regional portfolio of Spa, a signature Thai wellness 50 operating properties across concept, a gym and yoga three core brands in eight facility, dive centre and a large countries. The Group has a landscaped lagoon swimming robust development pipeline pool. of close to 30 new properties in markets such as Indonesia and “OZO Maldives will be a great Australia, and has set a target of family oriented resort with a having 99 hotels open by 2024 strong focus on sustainability as part of its journey towards and environmental education, being the best medium-sized capped off by all the hospitality player in the region.

Marriott International has launched its Westin brand in the Maldives with the opening of the Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort on 12th October 2018. The resort is set to herald the Westin brand’s wellness positioning in the Maldivian oasis.

The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, located in the Maldives first and only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, has 70 luxurious villas and suites, fitted with the signature Westin Heavenly Bed that allows guests to refuel their body and mind with genuinely restorative sleep.

Designed by Italian studio Peia Associati, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort boasts of innovative architecture and sophisticated interiors that features precious local materials.

Timber from neighbouring countries completes the external finishing and frames, including the light structure part of a double skin system building. These natural shelters have an innovative organic shape and provide natural ventilation as well as lighter natural skins and comfortable shading.

The resort also comes fully equipped with the Westin Workout that maintains and maximise the guest workout routine, with the brand’s world-class fitness studio, Gear Lending with

New Balance and local running maps.

The Heavenly by Westin Spa at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort is designed to awaken the senses, with services and amenities that are relaxing and rejuvenating to leave guests feeling fresh, energised and focused.

Situated in the uninhabited island of Miriandhoo in the central Baa Atoll, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort is accessible by a scenic 40-minute seaplane flight from the main Velana International Airport or a domestic flight to the airport on the nearby Dharavandhoo Island followed by a further 20-minute speedboat ride.

Marriott International, Inc. is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of more than 6,400 properties in 30 leading hotel brands spanning 126 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company also operates award-winning loyalty programs: Marriott Rewards®, which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards®, and Starwood Preferred Guest®.

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CATERING EQUIPMENT . COOKWARE . BUFFETWARE . BAR SUPPLIES . TABLEWARE . GLASSWARE .

GYM EQUIPMENT . CONFECTIONERIES . FOOD & BEVERAGES . HEALTHCARE

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EVENTS & AWARDS

Boat Show & Boating Festival Sri Lanka Concludes Boat Show & Boating Festival Sri Lanka 2018, organized by Boat Building Technology Improvement Institute (BTI) and Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), in association with Ministry of Development Strategies and International Trade, Ministry of Ports and Shipping and Sri Lanka Ports Authority concluded on 28th October 2018 at Galle Yacht Marina, Port of Galle.

to showcase the country’s capabilities in marine tourism, recreational boating, yachting and boat building which is mainly focused on exports.

The First Vice President of the Republic of Burundi, Mr. Gaston Sindimwo and Minister of Transport, Public Works, Equipment and Territory Management Mr. Jean Bosco Nutunzwenimana along with several former Ministers visited The Boat Building industry has identified Boat Show 2018 on the invitation of as a leading industry and an emerging International Trade State Minister Mr. export sector and has also been Sujeewa Senasinghe, who graced the identified as one of the key sectors in opening ceremony as the guests of the National Export Strategy (NES) 2018 – honour.

2022 for Sri Lanka.

Number of international buyers and The 6th Edition of the Boat Show visitors were visited the Boat Show from commenced on October 26th with countries such as Maldives, Sweden, a novel concept, was the first ever Italy, UAE, India, Poland, Belgium, boating festival in Sri Lanka organized Pakistan, Seashells and Mauritius.

Special Features at the Boat Show and Boating Festival 2018, Sri Lanka Ocean Academy Ocean Academy was an ideal platform for Maritime Studies. This is an interdisciplinary academic field that embraces the liberal arts as the foundation for exploring humankind’s critical and continually evolving connections with the world’s waterways and watersheds. They invited the educational institute to demonstrate their possible activities at the site and take this opportunity to promote their course and training program in the maritime field.

Sun and Sand Festival Sun and Sand Festival gave the opportunity for all the visitors to enjoy the weekend by engaging in the following activities in addition to the visit to the exhibition. The following action stations created a unique atmosphere at the carnival.

• Floating Restaurants and Marine thematic Cafeterias • Sea Cam – Photo sessions • Water Sports- Kayaking, Jet skiing, Rowing, Boat rides, Boat races, Rowing races, Diving, snorkeling among others • Kids’ thematic play areas and amusement park

Mobile Marine Museum The National Maritime Museum in Galle, Sri Lanka is situated within Galle Fort.

With the support of the Galle National Marine Museum, the organizers prearranged a specific area where the officials can exhibit and arrange special tours to the Marine Museum. This attracted more visitors and benefited the museum and the boat show and the boating festival.

THE INDUSTRY AT A GLANCE and SUCCESS Boat and Ship Building is a lucrative and a thriving industry which was capitalized by the western world during the previous decade in Sri Lanka. The center for manufacturing boats is now moving towards developing countries from the developed countries mainly due to the competitive labour costs and the skilled and highly trainable workforce offered by these countries. The increase demand for boats worldwide for fishing, industrial, commercial and recreation purposes open up huge opportunities and new markets for the Boat Building in Sri Lanka, due to its strategic location, highly trainable workforce and labour cost advantage.

Boat show and Boating Festival 2018 focused its attention towards the government and private investment in marina development and management and establishment of boat parks with all the recreational amenities.

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EVENTS & AWARDS

Maldives Boating Awards 2018 Opens Nominations for 26 Categories Supporters of nominees can vote online and via SMS to help recognise the nominee that leads to the selection as a winner commencing from 5th November till 5th December 2018.

Prior to nomination, each nominee has to be a member of Liveaboard Association of Maldives.

The Liveaboard Association of Maldives (LAM) has opened up nominations for Maldives Boating Awards 2018.

Maldives Boating Award is an initiative of Liveaboard Association of Maldives (LAM) which began in the year 2014 to recognise the services and standards of the boating industry in the Maldives with continuous successful 4 editions held in the past.

According to LAM, Businesses and Services who wish to nominate can fill the application form and send a scanned copy with relevant documents to sg@liveaboards.mv before 5th November 2018, 1200hrs.

Important Information: Total Number of Categories: 26 Application: by filling the form Deadline: 1200hrs,5th November 2018 Judging: Professional Panel, Online Votes, Popular SMS Votes for services

and brands Awards are presented to nominees in different categories on various sectors inclusive of the standard. The Maldives Boating Awards aim to encourage & raise service standards within the Maldivian Boating industry.

the third edition of Maldives Travel Conference will be held in the Maldives on 22nd November 2018

Wins Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Award

The Liveaboard Association of Maldives (LAM) holds exclusive rights of the award.

Liveaboard Association of Maldives (LAM) is the Maldivian Associations representing the liveaboards and been the voice of live boards since the formation of LAM in 2007. The Association’s purpose is to help LAM members grow their business successfully and sustainably and to help their clients and operators choose the appropriate company while selecting a cruising vacation in the Maldives.

The Third Edition of Maldives Travel Conference to be Hosted with PATA’s Human Capacity Building Programme Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) has announced that the third edition of Maldives Travel Conference will be held in the Maldives on 22nd November 2018. The theme for this year ’s conference will be centred around growth and sustainability.

Maldives

Conference 2018 for all sectors of the travel industry. MATATO expects more than 250 people to join the conference this year.

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) will also be staging the second edition of the PATA Human Capacity Building Programme in the Maldives Travel Conference Maldives, as part of the was first launched in 2016 as Maldives Travel Conference, part of Maldives Travel Awards under the theme “Growth with the intention of creating Hacking: How to Scale Your a platform Maldives to lead Business exponentially”. international dialogue and debate on challenges and In response to the success opportunities that the tourism of the PATA Human Capacity industry unfolds.

Building Programme held in the Maldives on 12-17 July In 2016, the conference 2017, the second edition of focused on for main topics this intensive and interactive with the importance of training programme will promoting the Maldives incorporate a series of overseas, changes to the classroom interactions nation’s luxury travel industry, conducted by leading travel the ongoing transformation industry experts coupled of the archipelago’s tourism with practical activities and sector, the opportunities and networking opportunities. the challenges faced by the industry.

The programme content is based upon the successful According to MATATO, PATA Academy - HCD event registration is now open held at the Association’s for the Maldives Travel Engagement Hub in Bangkok.

Participants gain handson experience by working both individually and on team basis projects, where presentations are shared at the end of the programme.

From this intensive high-value training, participants will take home practical marketing strategies to be applied and implemented in their respective organisations.

Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) is a non-profit organisation that has been working the last ten years to foster and promotes SMEs of local travel agents.

The association has engaged themselves in various activities over the years from advocacy, training, and workshops, travel trade fairs in many parts of the world, media FAM trips, government lobbying, recognition programs such as Awards, travel conferences and forums, publications, destination marketing, whistle-blower programs, representation and much more.

The Maldives is the recipient of the “Signum Virtutis”, the Seal of Excellence, from the 2018 Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards, for the special award of Seven Stars Destination. The Ceremony took place on the 6th October 2018 at the Capsis Out of the Blue Elite Resort in Crete, Greece.

Maldives won the award for “Seven Star Destination Winner” for being the best destination. Maldives competed with other world-class destinations such as Dubai, Seychelles, Mauritius and Singapore in this category.

This is the 3rd time that the Maldives secured this award after having won the same category at the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards in 2013 and 2014. Dr Hala Hameed, Ambassador of the Republic of Maldives to the Swiss Confederation received the award on behalf of Maldives.

The Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards, known as the highest and most exclusive international luxury award for the pinnacle in hospitality & lifestyle, recognises and sets apart the extraordinary achievements in the hospitality and lifestyle sectors by bestowing upon winners the Signum Virtutis – the seal of excellence.

For a world-class destination, winning at the Seven Star Luxury Awards will enhance the image of the destination as a high profile luxury destination.

The awards winners were voted by both the Trade (Travel Agents, Tour Operators, and Industry Professionals) as well as the Public via the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards website

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INTERNATIONAL

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts Unveils a Global Menu of Seven Savoury Dishes with a Touch of the Finest Swiss Chocolate Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, an upscale brand within complements the goat’s cheese, pine nuts and coffee the AccorHotels Group, is celebrating Swiss cuisine and beans. the culinary versatility of chocolate with a new global menu of savoury dishes featuring a sweet twist.

Sea bass and a light foam of green tea, almonds, nuts and starring Mövenpick Maple Walnut.

Minute beef goulash’, with a traditionally made Hungarian goulash sauce, enriched with dark chocolate.

Lamb shank and pesto, slow-roasted and then refined with pistachio and hazelnut chocolate pesto.

Reads a statement by the brand.

The brand’s talented ‘food artisans’ have made Mövenpick chocolate the hero of seven dishes in its ‘Chocolate on the Salty Side’ promotion, which runs from 10 October to 20 November 2018 at selected Mövenpick hotel and resort restaurants worldwide.

With ambitious plans to further expand its footprint across these continents, the company is on track to meet its target of operating 125 properties by 2020.

This includes Mӧvenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives, the stunning new sustainably designed island resort which is scheduled to open its doors in November 2018.

Duck breast and potato pie with white chocolate, lime and pepper giving the pink-roasted meat a delicate yet The company’s global workforce of 16,000 hospitality spicy freshness. professionals are trained to ensure Mövenpick’s traditional Swiss values are always upheld, A tempting ‘chocolate pavés au chocolat’, combining guaranteeing the 7.5 million guests who stay with us milk chocolate, crispy cocoa bean fragments, sizzling every year are well looked after. pecan nuts and slightly bitter matcha powder, all with a hint of green tea and paired with an espresso for guests to finish their meal with.

Marinated beetroot salmon with root vegetables and 72% dark chocolate to enhance the meal’s rich earthiness.

The quality of Swiss craftsmanship is world-famous and even the country’s chocolate is produced with legendary precision. Mövenpick chocolate is made in keeping with the tradition, as well as its own culinary values that date back 70 years, and is produced in Switzerland using 100% cocoa butter.

Tomato tarte tartin where white lemon chocolate

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is one of the world’s most

The seven chocolate-inspired creations include:

reputable upscale hotel management companies.

Since it was established in 1973, the hospitality firm has expanded its international presence and today, manages 20,000-plus rooms in more than 82 hotels across Africa, Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

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INTERNATIONAL

Diethelm Travel Group Takes Over Travel Centre Asia Diethelm Travel Group, an award-winning inbound tour operator servicing Asia has announced that it has acquired Travel Centre Asia (TCA), one of Thailand’s leading DMC’s based in Bangkok to merge its services.

The two companies will continue operating under the Diethelm Travel branding as of 1 November 2018 Boasting over six decades of operation, Diethelm Travel Group employs more than 500 staff worldwide and offers thousands of custom tours throughout 13 countries in Asia. Already one of largest independently owned incoming tour operators in Asia, with the new acquisition the group will secure even more access to key European markets in which TCA is a specialist.

transition as the current TCA team continues routine operations under the Diethelm Travel brand. All key members of TCA will move to become part of the new team ensuring a seamless transition while maintaining the highest service standards for all tour operator partners and their guests.

“I’m confident that the acquisition is a smart move for both entities as each is committed to providing unparalleled on-the-ground service, excellent rates and unique Asia travel products throughout the region,” said Thomas Maurer, owner of Travel Centre Asia.

TCA, which has roots in the globally recognised Thomas Cook Group is also known for customised high-end tours and services as well as unique special interest products, such as exclusive cycling tours, and large is an excellent complement to Diethelm Travel’s group incentive experiences – three areas which align existing Thailand operations and further highlights our well with Diethelm Travel Group’s emphasis on highly ambitions to continue strengthening our position as a unique and tailor-made programmes.

“I look forward to seeing how the two companies come leading regional DMC partner in Asia.” together and continue to grow.”

“Travel Centre Asia has long been a prominent DMC, The acquisition is yet another bold move for particularly for Thailand travel,” said Stephan Roemer, Additionally, Diethelm Travel’s headquarters will move Diethelm Travel in a string of promising business CEO of Diethelm Travel Group. to newly upgraded offices in the heart of Bangkok’s announcements made over the past year, including major central business district on Silom Road. The a merger with Tourasia and increasingly profitable “Combining the brand’s excellent relationships within company expects to complete its relocation and quarters.

Thailand as well as their key accounts in various continue operations to provide clients with even better European markets and Canada, this new acquisition services from 1 December 2018.

TCA’s owner Thomas Maurer, will stay on during the

Air Taxis to be Tested on Singapore skies in the second half of 2019 German aviation start-up Volocopter has announced that it will perform a series of urban flight tests of its air taxis on Singapore in the second half of 2019. The flight tests are designed to validate and verify the ability of Volocopter’s electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles to operate in Singapore’s urban environment.

The firm’s air taxi resembles a helicopter, but is based on drone technology and can fly two people for about 30km. The Volocopter can be flown with a pilot, unmanned via remote control or autonomously and is designed specifically for inner-city missions and can carry 160kg.

The company revealed in a statement that the tests which will culminate in public demo flights are supported by the Ministry of Transport, Economic Development Board and Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS).

Volocopter and CAAS will collaborate to establish the scope of the test flights and ensure that they meet the necessary requirements.

CAAS director of aviation industry Ho Yuen Sang was quoted as saying there is potential for air taxis to transform mobility and logistics in urban cities. Volocopter, he added, is at the forefront of such new and innovative technology in the aviation industry.

“CAAS is pleased to work together with Volocopter to study the technical capabilities and develop appropriate operational guidelines to facilitate such trials in Singapore.”

Said Ho Yuen Sang.

mobility providers to establish an infrastructure that can support flight testing.

A Volocopter spokesman said while its air taxis are currently not being used commercially anywhere, it is focusing on “achieving commercial certification to operate as air taxis”.

“We expect the first commercial air taxi routes to open in three to five years. We are in discussions with cities around the world including Germany. However, at this point, we The German company revealed that it cannot make an estimation where will work with government agencies the first route will open.” Said the to determine the right testing spokesman. facilities and locations and the trials will focus on its vehicle’s capabilities Volocopter is the global leader in the to perform flights under local development of electrical vertical conditions. It also will be setting up a take-off and landing multicopters product design and engineering team (eVTOL) as autonomous air taxis in Singapore to support its expansion for the safe transport of people. plans.

The technical platform is extremely flexible and permits piloted, remote For the flight tests in Singapore, controlled, and fully autonomous the company will work with CAAS flight. In addition, the unique to decide which flight mode is the design offers unprecedented best. It was previously reported degrees of safety based on the high that Volocopter is seeking to level of redundancy in all critical partner real estate developers and components.

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CURRENT NEWS

MATATO Set to Elect New Laniakea Travel Launches Executive Board at the the First Online Travel Upcoming AGM 2018 Agency and B2B Travel Marketplace of Maldives

Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) has opened nominations for the new executive board members which will be elected at the upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on November 2018.

MATATO states that the organisation will be accepting nominations for executive board till the end of this month and competing candidates will be announced 15 days prior to the AGM. The organisation is governed by an executive board comprised of nine members elected once every two years from its representative members. Only general members can nominate and vote in the executive board election while a period of 30 days is given for the representatives to register themselves for nomination.

Launched in 2006, MATATO is one of the leading organisations in the travel industry of the Maldives, which represents the local travel agents and tour operators as general members.

The organisation has engaged themselves in various activities over the years from advocacy, training, and workshops, travel trade fairs in many parts of the world, media FAM trips, government lobbying, recognition programs such as Awards, travel conferences and forums, publications, destination marketing, whistle-blower programs, representation and much more.

Laniakea Travel has officially launched Traveler. mv, the first online travel agency and B2B travel marketplace of the Maldives where customers can make real-time bookings and payments with just one click According to Laniakea Travel, Traveler.mv will become the largest inventory of resorts, guesthouses, hotels and liveaboards of Maldives and can be connected to OTA’s around the globe. Through white labelling service, OTAs across the globe can sell traveler.mv’s inventory on their websites as well. Offline travel agencies will be able to enter bookings manually with login details provided.

Traveler.mv not only connects with customers, but it also has a state-of-theart fully automated platform which is designed to connect Hoteliers and Travel Agencies. This will minimise the time spent on making contracts, mark-ups, contents and pricing between hoteliers and travel agents across the globe.

Contents for the best rates would be readily available for travel agents in this B2B marketplace. Remittances can be made without any hassles from anywhere in the world.

Traveler.mv is working very closely with AxisRoom – India’s leading technology providers for more than 6500+ in 178 locations including Latin America, Indonesia, Maldives and UAE. Traveler.mv is open up for resorts, hotels, guesthouses, and liveaboards to partner up by following the steps in the registration link: https://partners.traveler.mv/ Laniakea Teach, a Maldivian tech innovator who has begun to spearhead modern technology solutions to the Maldives which is filled with innovators. The company’s inventory includes Business Travel Services manager, Online Reputation Management solutions, Booking Engines, Shopping Rate Solutions, Customer Relationship Management Software, Maldives Butler, Central Reservation System, Revenue Management System, Channel Manager, Accounting Software and Fintech Software.

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VOL 28 |

November 2018 | www.theislandchief.com

CURRENT NEWS

The Government Announce Protection of Three Biodiversity Hotspots in the Maldives The Ministry of Environment and Energy has declared the protection of three biodiversity hotspots in the Maldives, namely Rasdhoo-Madivaru area located in Alif Alif Atoll, Farukolhu Island in the northern Shaviyani atoll and Dhigulaabadhoo Island in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.

According to the statement released by the Ministry, the three areas are protected under the Environment Protection and Preservation Act of the Maldives and an umbrella law passed in August 2018 that grants a selection of islands extended rights.

areas are banned for tourists, locals are allowed the traditional method of bait fishing in these protected areas.

Catching reef fish and shallow trolling are allowed in areas outside of them.

Locals may also collect dry palm leaves, coconut husks and timber from certain locations.

The Rasdhoo-Madivaru area in the central Alif Alif Atoll is classified under category one as an “Internationally Recognised Area” and under category six as a “Habitat/Species Management Area.” The area which encompasses three sandbanks and four islands is a As per the regulations outlined in the popular dive-site notable for sightings statement, swimming, snorkelling, diving of hammerhead sharks throughout the and picnics are allowed in all protected year. areas while sand mining, removal of stones, collecting shells, littering and The Rasdhoo atoll reef is also any activity considered harmful to internationally recognised as an the environment are all prohibited for “Ecologically and Biologically Significant foreigners and locals alike.

Marine Area” under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity.

While all forms of fishing in these The Farukolhu Island in the northern

Shaviyani atoll was designated as a “Protected Area with Sustainable Use.” The island’s coral reef and seven different mangroves or wetlands provide breeding sites and nesting grounds for many endangered species.

Dhigulaabaadhoo was also categorised as protected with sustainable use. The ministry called the island’s large wetland area “nationally significant, playing an important role in the livelihoods of the neighbouring island communities.”The U-shaped Island in the southern Gaaf Dhaal atoll is a natural breeding ground for rays and sharks as well as an extensive mangrove system.

The islands of AA.Madivaru, GDh. Dhigulaabadhoo and Sh. Farukolhu were previously listed on EPA’s list of ‘environmentally sensitive’ locations.

Coca-Cola Sets Share A Coke Maldives Campaign in Motion The Share a Coke Maldives campaign was officially launched at a special ceremony held in the presence of selected socialites by the captain of Maldives National Football team Akram Abdul Ghanee who was the Chief Guest of the event.

According to Coca-Cola, the narrative of the campaign with the theme ‘’There’s Coke for every relationship’’ draws upon the significance of relationships and reignites them by creating moments of happiness that comes from sharing a Coke.

The multi-faceted campaign includes a number of consumer touch points including marketing activations, digital and social media engagements and in-store marketing to elevate brand love. The ‘’Share A Coke’’ campaign was first launched in Australia in 2011 as an exciting new concept of identifying ways in which consumers could share their favourite beverage with friends and family.

The Coca-Cola Company is a total beverage company, offering over 500 brands in more than 200 countries and territories. In addition to the company’s Coca-Cola brands, the company’s portfolio includes some of the world’s most valuable beverage brands such as AdeS soy-based beverages, Ayataka green tea, Dasani waters, Del Valle juices and nectars, Fanta, Georgia coffee, Gold Peak teas and coffees, Honest Tea, innocent smoothies and juices, Minute Maid juices, Powerade sports drinks, Simply juices, SmartWater, Sprite, Vitaminwater and ZICO coconut water.

Coca-Cola has recently launched “Share A Coke Maldives,” a Maldivian spin-off of the most successful global campaigns ‘’Share A Coke’’ reinvented to connect with the consumers in the Maldives.

Coca-Cola is constantly transforming its portfolio, from reducing sugar in their drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. The company is also working to reduce their environmental impact by replenishing water and promoting recycling. With the company’s bottling partners, they employ more than 700,000 people, helping bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide.

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