The Islandchief, Travel Tabloid 34 | May Issue 2019 by The islandchief

VOL 34 | May 2019 | www.islandchief.com

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

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi to debut in July

Page : 6

Four Seasons Maldives Apprenticeship Program

Page : 16

Exclusive Interview with Giles Selves, General Manager of Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas Page: 10

FHAM Talks 2019

Page : 21

VOL 34 | May 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

AVIATION PRESS

Turkish Airlines moves all aircrafts and equipment to New Istanbul Airport Turkish Airlines moved thousands of pieces of equipment — including planes, aircraft-towing vehicles, and security sensors — from its base in Atatürk Airport to New Istanbul Airport under an intense 41 hours between 5th – 6th April 2019. The airline began the process, which it dubbed the “Great Move,” at 0300hrs on Friday, 5th April and completed it at 2000hrs on Saturday, 6th April. Hundreds of trucks carried more than 10,000 pieces of equipment, weighing about 44 tons, according to Daily Sabah Newspaper. The two airports are about 20 miles apart. Mehmet Turhan, Turkey’s Transport Minister, called it “the biggest move in the global aviation history”.

The airline flew its first flight from the new airport at 1400hrs on Saturday, bound for Turkey’s Capital Ankara. At this stage the move was still underway, and would take another six hours. Authorities approximate the airport will accommodate 90 million passengers a year, which would be an increase of nearly 50% on the 64 million passengers Atatürk Airport reported in 2017.

Established in 1933 with a fleet of five aircraft, Star Alliance Member The old airport is located in Turkish Airlines has a fleet of 336 Southern Istanbul, near the Sea (passenger and cargo) aircrafts flying of Marmara, while the new one is to 306 worldwide destinations as 257 in the city’s north, near the Black international and 49 domestic, in 124 Sea. Both airports were shut during countries. The Turkish flag carrier the moving operations, news commenced operations to Maldives sources reported. “Turkish Airlines in November 2012 with nonstop, completed its last commercial flight 5 weekly flights from Istanbul to from Atatürk — bound for Singapore Velana International Airport, Malé, — at 0244hrs on Friday”, according to Maldives. Reuters.

Air Italy to add flights to Maldives Italy’s National carrier, Air Italy has announced plans to commence non-stop flights to Maldives for 2019/20 Winter. The schedule conveniently connects via Milan to serve point-to-point traffic with optimized daily frequencies between Malpensa and Rome, Naples, Palermo, Catania, Lamezia Terme and Cagliari. Operating from its hub at Malpensa Airport, Milan - the Milan-Male’ route will be served three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Rossen Dimitrov, Chief Operating Officer of Air Italy, said “I am confident that our newly rolled out Business Class product will provide our customers with more seamless and enhanced experience onboard. Featuring an entirely new tableware, in-flight dining menus, cutlery and chinaware that have all been specially crafted to meet travelers’ expectations, Air Italy’s Business Class passengers can also take advantage of the new dine-on-demand service”. The new long-haul Airbus A330200 offers up to 24 seats in the exclusive Business Class cabin making it possible to fly with maximum comfort in

fully reclining seats with Wi-Fi service, an extensive inflight entertainment service and the personalized attention from the onboard staff. The Economy Class cabin with 228 seats also provides Air Italy’s guests with highly personalized service, Wi-Fi and a wide selection of entertainment. According to the Maldives Tourism Ministry statistics, Italy ranks fourth amongst the contributors to the Maldives tourism industry, after China, Germany and the United Kingdom. During the year 2018, it was recorded that 105,297 Italians visited the Maldives; which illustrated an increase of 18.5 per cent compared to the previous year.

VOL 34 | May 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

AVIATION PRESS

Manta Air begins service to Dharavandhoo Manta Air has begun a new domestic route, providing daily, direct service between Velana International Airport and Dharavandhoo Airport on 11th April 2019. The initial plan was to operate two direct daily flights and increase it to three flights effective after 2nd weeks of operations. The commencement of flights to Dharavandhoo comes hot on the heels of Manta Air’s recent addition of a third aircraft being added to its fleet.

Manta Air operates 3 direct daily flights on a pre-published fixed schedule between Dharavandhoo and Velana International Airport providing 21 flights weekly.

Air. Dharavandhoo is one of the most popular airports in the country, frequented by many. We understand that passengers are looking forward to a better flying experience, on time performance Manta Air also announced a very and scheduled flights. We designed special promotional fare of MVR our service specifically with 499 for adults and MVR249 for kids customers in mind, to relieve pain to celebrate the commencement points and make domestic travel of the new route. In addition, the enjoyable and effortless. Our aim airline will also be maintaining is to give the best of Manta Air’s the super saver and saver fares for hospitality to each and every Dharavandhoo for those seeking customer who will be joining tickets on the lowest fare starting us onboard whilst they enjoy a The airline currently operates at MVR 549 for one way. This special spectacular view across the blue. brand new eco-friendly ATR 72rate is offered only if the tickets 600 aircrafts, with most modern are booked in advance. Manta Air tickets for Dharvandhoo and spacious cabin interiors and are available for purchase through quiet turboprop engines. And it “The addition of direct flights the airline’s official website at has further enhanced the cabin to Dharavandoo by Manta Air is www.mantaair.mv and also through by implementing a reduced seat the one that is going to excite authorized passenger sales agents. configuration to provide every the local community and the passenger with additional legroom customers travelling to the region.” for a comfortable flying experience. Said Maumoon, CMO for Manta

Emirates to deploy its latest Boeing 777-300ER to Male’ from 1st June

Emirates has announced the deployment of its latest Boeing 777-300 ER aircraft fitted with the ‘Game Changer’ First Class suites on its Dubai - Malé route from 1st June, 2019. The Maldivian Capital will become the first destination in the South Asian region to be served on a regular basis by the new aircraft.

Emirates truly means when it invites customers to The Business Class seats are inspired by the Fly Better,” said Ahmed Khoory, Emirates’ Senior Vice interior of a modern sports car, and feature an President, West Asia & Indian Ocean. ergonomically designed headrest with a sleek look and feel. Business Class passengers can also Travelers to and from the Maldives can experience customize their experience with touchscreen the new Emirates Boeing 777 product on flight EK658 controls for their seat and inflight entertainment departing Dubai daily at 0420hrs and arriving in system and adjust their personal lighting options. Malé at 0930hrs. The return flight EK659 leaves Malé The cabin also includes privacy panels between Passengers travelling to and from the idyllic at 1100hrs, arriving in Dubai at 1400hrs. seats, a shoe stowage area, footrest, and a personal archipelago on Emirates flights EK658 and EK659, mini-bar. one of three daily non-stop services connecting From First Class through to the Business and Malé, with Emirates’ hub in Dubai, will be able to Economy Class cabins, the latest Emirates Boeing The Economy Class cabin features a color palette experience the fully-enclosed First Class private 777 aircraft features ergonomically designed seats, of soft greys and blues. The seats come with full suites inspired by luxury automaker Mercedes-Benz. multi-million dollar upgrades and the latest version leather flexible headrests with side panels that can of the ice inflight entertainment system across all be adjusted vertically for optimum support. “The Maldives has become an increasingly popular cabins. Designed with an emphasis on exceptional Emirates currently operates its latest Boeing 777destination for Emirates, attracting premium customer comfort and ultimate privacy, Emirates 300ER aircraft fitted with the ‘Game Changer’ First travelers, honeymooners and families around the ‘Game-Changing’ Boeing 777 private suites feature Class suites to Brussels, Geneva, Vienna, Tokyo world. Introducing the new Boeing 777 with the floor-to-ceiling sliding doors and ultra-modern (Haneda), London Stansted and Riyadh and has state-of-the-art First Class suites on this route design features against cool grey colourscapes. announced it will deploy the aircraft on flights to reaffirms our longstanding commitment to Malé. Offering up to 40 square feet of personal space Kuwait from 1st June 2019. It is also a testament to our ongoing efforts to each, the spacious, fully-enclosed private suites provide our travelers across the network with are laid out in a 1-1-1 configuration, for a total of six an unparalleled experience, demonstrating what suites.

VOL 34 | May 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

NEW OPENINGS

Discover the Maldives with RIU: Hotel Riu Palace Maldives & Hotel Riu Atoll Hotel Riu Palace Maldives and Hotel Riu Atoll is set to debut on 17th May 2019.

Hotel Riu Palace Maldives and Hotel Riu Atoll is set to debut on 17th May 2019. Hotel Riu Palace Maldives is the ideal place for you to have luxury holiday in a paradise destination. This allinclusive resort in the Maldives is located on the private island of Kedhigandu and it offers an allinclusive 24-hour service, free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel with a wide range of cuisines and many relaxation and entertainment options.

zone. But, if you prefer the white sand and crystalline waters of your surroundings, the hotel offers you direct access to the beach that fringes Kedhigandu island so that you can relax on the sun lounges. Moreover, Hotel Riu Palace Maldives offers a range of cuisines. The main restaurant serves buffet breakfasts, lunches and dinners with live cooking stations, and the Japanese and fusion cooking restaurants with delicious à la carte dishes.

To help you enjoy your stay in maximum comfort, the Hotel Riu Palace Maldives has Junior Suites located in various villas, as well as the exclusive overwater suites, some of which have small private pools. 150 rooms are equipped with minibars, drinks dispensers, kettles, air conditioning and satellite TV, among many other facilities.

At RIU, we want you to have an unforgettable experience in the Maldives, which is why we recommend that you take advantage of the Hotel Riu Atoll’s facilities to enjoy massages and beauty treatments in the spa, watersports such as diving, kayaking and paddle surf, and the entertainment programmes full of shows and live music.

The pool at this hotel in Kedhigandu is one of its most charming places, as it has stunning views of the sea with a swim-up bar and a chill-out

Hotel Riu Atoll is located on the heavenly on the neighboring private island of Maafushi in the Maldives, accessible by a footbridge from Hotel

Riu Palace Maldives. It has the best 24-hour all-inclusive service, for you to enjoy an exclusive holiday in this unparalleled destination. The hotel’s facilities include free Wi-Fi, a rich range of culinary options and the exclusive service that characterizes the brand, among many others. This resort in Maafushi has more than 250 rooms equipped with all the best comforts such as a minibar, air conditioning, safe box and satellite TV. It also has several types of rooms: some located on the island and the overwater junior suites, ideal for people who want to enjoy a holiday with luxury in every detail. Hotel Riu Atoll provides guests with a pool with bar and impressive view of the sea, and another pool for children. You can also head to the beach and relax in the sun lounge area or go diving to contemplate the underwater beauty of this island paradise. During your stay at the hotel in Maafushi, you’ll enjoy authentic culinary experiences. The main restaurant serves buffet breakfasts with live

cooking stations, and the Italian and steakhouse restaurants offer à la carte dining. And if you like to savour an aperitif or soft drink after a relaxing dip or while watching a stunning sunset, you have the Lounge Bar and the Sports Bar, open 24 hours. The relaxation that pervades the whole of the Maldives is completed by the spa in the resort on Maafushi. It offers guests an extensive menu of treatments. If you prefer holidays packed with activities, you can enjoy kayaking, paddle surfing and diving. And moreover little ones in the family can enjoy the RiuLand kids’ club, where they’ll find a heap of activities. Important information - Transfer services It is compulsory to book transfers from Velana International Airport to the above hotels in the Maldives. The transfer is by scheduled flight to Kudahuvadhoo (approx. 45 minutes) and the journey is completed by motorboat to the hotels (approx. 15 minutes).

Picnic Island designated in Emboodhoo Lagoon - President Solih

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih announces the plans for a designated ‘Picnic Island’, at a special ceremony inaugurating the concept held on the evening of the 2nd of April 2019, at the National Art Gallery.

The island, which is located within a fifteen minute travel distance from Male’ is being developed by Thailand based Singha Estate, as part of the ‘Cross Roads’ project in Emboodhoo Lagoon. The island will be devoted entirely to rest and recreation and will have facilities that will cater sports and entertainment, and will be designed appealing for the youth in particular. The President delivered a speech at the event during

which he stated that the development of the island was one of his administrations first 100 days’ pledges in-lining with the government’s overarching policy of a Jazeera Raajje, which will ensure economic progress and harmony between the citizens. The government is currently working to ensure that the picnic island will be opened to the public before the end of the year.

VOL 34 | May 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

NEW OPENINGS

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi to debut in July Scheduled to open on 1st July 2019, Waldorf Astoria’s newest resort marks the brand’s fifth property in Asia Pacific and spans three unique islands. Iconic Luxury Hotel Brand brings personalized service and inspirational environments to the Maldives with Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi. Hilton’s luxury brand, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts is set to welcome guests to the heart of the South Malé Atoll with the highly anticipated opening of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi on July 1st. The all-villa resort spans across three islands, providing secluded enclaves and a tranquil escape for discerning travelers, complete with a plethora of activities for guests of all generations. The resort will offer a sophisticated and serene retreat with a 30-minute journey from Velana International Airport via the resort’s private yacht. An escape for families and couples in search of space and exclusivity. The resort boasts 122 luxuriously appointed villas - each equipped with a pool and uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean in its own private enclave. Each reef, beach and overwater villa will open onto an indoor and outdoor deck featuring a swinging daybed, dining gazebo, an infinity pool, in-water lounge and an outdoor shower. “We are thrilled to bring this unforgettable property and best-in-class experience to the Maldives,” said Dino Michael, Global Head, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts. “The resort’s inspirational environment, refined culinary offerings and thoughtfully designed family options, combined with the brand’s unparalleled commitment to personal service, will give every guest the freedom to create memories that last a

lifetime.” “As the fifth Waldorf Astoria to open in the region, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi represents a significant milestone in the brand’s continued growth in Asia Pacific following the successful opening of Waldorf Astoria Bangkok last year,” said Daniel Welk, Vice President, Luxury and Lifestyle Group, Asia Pacific, Hilton. “We are extremely proud to bring the brand to a destination as synonymous with luxury as the Maldives, and we look forward to delivering unforgettable experiences that reflect Waldorf Astoria’s unique sense of place and iconic service standards.” “We are delighted to bring the illustrious brand heritage and the world-renowned True Waldorf Service to the Maldives,” said Etienne Dalançon, General Manager, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi. “Our brand has redefined the hospitality experience for the modern, luxury traveler in landmark locations around the world, and we look forward to transforming the Maldives experience for our guests.” Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 17 distinct hotel brands. To celebrate the hotel’s opening, Hilton Honors members will earn an additional 5,000 Points per minimum stay of three nights, for bookings from July to September 2019, when booking directly with Hilton. Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi will be begin taking bookings from July 1, 2019, and is located at Ithaafushi Island, South Male’ Atoll, Republic of Maldives.

Heritance Aarah - Luxury at Raa Atoll

Heritance Aarah has opened its doors for guests serving well-crafted experiences at its own private island, in Raa Atoll. The island is reachable by a 40-minute seaplane journey from Velana International Airport.

Villas and Family Pool Beach Villas.

If you are seeking a haven for pure relaxation or an active holiday retreat for the whole family, the choices are endless. Offering a range “All Inclusive” options, friendly staff with The island resort of Heritance Aarah is high commitment to service assures a carefree holiday. The resort offers perfectly suited for couples, families its guests various ways to spend their or groups of friends looking for a time to relax and experience the relaxing island hideaway; where excursions. From fly boarding, to diving turquoise waters beckon from the to catamaran sailing – ensuring one choice of 82 intimate Luxury Duplex Ocean Suites and Sunset Ocean Villas, wouldn’t run out of things to do on the island. 75 Land Villas ranging from Beach Villas, Pool Beach Villas, Family Beach

Furthermore, evocative flavors that will have your taste buds in raptures of delight to gourmet creations that combine authentic local ingredients, their Maldives restaurants offer something truly distinctive. With over 3 restaurants on the island, the resort is truly a treat for the gourmands. And if one wanted dinner to be more intimate, guests can request for private dining as well. The resort further offers its guests various options in the wellness aspect of a vacation. One can feel stress just melt away at one of six treatment rooms set above tranquil lagoon waters at their overwater spa, that features a sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi, and experience the IASO Medical Spa Program. Heritance Aarah is the first property in Maldives by the Heritance Hotels & Resorts. They welcome their unique portfolio of finest selection of holidays and leisure destinations. Heritance

Destinations properties comprise of five hotels with completely different personalities offering the ultimate combination of beach, nature, relaxation, and adventure. Stretching from the hills to a turquoise beaches, the ‘Heritance experience’ offers a truly authentic moments for all. Heritance branded hotels across Sri Lanka, includes; Heritance Kandalma, Heritance Tea Factory, Heritance Negombo, Heritance Ayurveda and Heritance Ahungalla. Aitken Spence Hotels and Resorts manages over 24 hotels in Sri Lanka, India, Oman and the Maldives. The chain runs six properties in the Maldives under its Adaaran brand; Adaaran Select Meedhupparu, Adaaran Club Rannalhi, Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi, Adaaran Prestige Water Villas and Adaaran Prestige Ocean Villas.

VOL 34 | May 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

ISLAND PRESS

Four Seasons Resort Maldives Introduces Ambitious Solar Projects Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru connected its first Roof Solar inverter, which is also one of the country’s largest resort-based solar installations. The ambitious project comprises 3,105 panels and spans 5,380 square metres (58,000 square feet). The panels laid on the roof surface of the staff village has been installed by Swimsol, specialists in tropical coastal-region solar systems. It is estimated that the new solar set-up will produce (and save) between 900,000 and 1.1 million kWh of energy every year and save between 250,000 and 300,000 litres (55,000-66,000 gallons) of diesel, which corresponds to 650-800 tons of CO2.

cubic feet) of water at the resort’s onsite desalination plant; or washing and drying 3,350 kilograms (7,400 pounds) of laundry. Finally, looking at the dieselsaving ability, the annual figure equates to driving around the world 94 times - with the corresponding annual CO2 reduction eliminating the emissions of 544 flights between London to Male’.

“Our Baa Atoll home became the Maldives’ first UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 2011 on account of its unique Putting this data into tangible real-world harmony between man and nature, examples, the annual savings equate to and we take our role in preserving that powering all 103 of Landaa’s luxurious status very seriously,” explains Armando guest rooms, villas, and suites for 32 Kraenzlin, Four Seasons Resorts Maldives days or charging one of the resort’s Regional Vice President. “This project is eco-friendly electric golf cars more than an important rung on our conservation 82,000 times. In daily terms, it’s the ladder and takes us a step closer to daily equivalent of powering 15 Villas reaching our eventual goal of becoming for 24 hours; applying reverse osmosis carbon-neutral.” technology to 540 cubic metres (19,000

Hollywood in the Maldives - Maldivian Island turns on the TREE OF LIGHT The special artwork complemented Cocoon Maldives’ naturalistic and breathtaking scenery, as part of an innovation that has been suggested by Alessandro Azzola, the Managing Director of Cocoon Maldives, the very first and only design hotel in the Maldives. The resort has been furnished in a tasteful contemporary Italian style by leading design company, Lago. The project was inspired by Tomaso Schiaffino, Art Director of Bellaria Design, an individual who focuses on innovation and unique design.

“I was extremely delighted with the idea to exhibit my creation in one of the exquisite resorts in the Indian Ocean, particularly in Cocoon Maldives. And I believe it would be absolutely magnificent” Tomaso Schiaffino, exclaimed.

‘Tree of Light’ is made up of real lighting installations that took 2 years to design due to its sophistication. Each model required 85 custom parts and the lastestgen LEDs. The result was a beautiful and simple structure built to impress.

The ‘Tree of Light’ does not only serve as a testament to a great work of art, but it also exhibits a wonderful showcase in the Indian ocean, specifically at Cocoon Maldives.

This artworks have been actually In an interview, Mr. Azzola made exhibited in the iconic nighttime scenes audacious remarks “I was stunned by the of the Oscar awarded movie “The Great creativity, simple and yet sophisticated. Beauty” which was directed in Rome by Hence I immediately envision that it the Italian Director Paolo Sorrentino. would be perfect addition to complement Cocoon Maldives and will become one of the iconic unmissable tourist attractions”.

VOL 34 | May 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

ISLAND PRESS

Protecting and Conserving the Kihavah Coral House Reef The incredible house reef at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas is home to a variety of marine species varying from planktonic organisms to sharks, crustaceans and corals. Here dolphins, turtles, eagle rays and reef sharks can be seen thriving in their natural habitat. The resident marine biologist is instrumental in protecting the biodiversity of the house reef by developing reef restoration projects including: Anantara’s Coral Adoption Programme, fragmentation cloning and a Kids Marine Biology Programme. The reef protects the pristine beach and guards the crystalclear lagoon. It also supports an astounding array of tropical fish, crustaceans and bizarre-looking molluscs. Despite its apparent resilience, coral is a sensitive organism, vulnerable to extreme weather, sudden environmental changes and damage caused by fish. Three coral propagation nurseries have been established to assist in the rehabilitation of the house reef which is often degraded as a result of parrotfish and other tropical fish colliding into the reef and inadvertently breaking off pieces of hard coral. Over twenty-five different species of branch coral from the Acropora

colony including table coral, elkhorn coral and staghorn coral have been propagated and transplanted. Staghorn corals are among the fastest growing corals on reefs and are exceptional reefbuilders. Guests can participate in reef creation and contribute to the resorts on-going conservation efforts by adopting a coral rope. Finger-sized coral fragments that have already broken off from the reef are collected by the resident marine biologist and together with the guest these are transplanted onto a rope in the lagoon and then placed in one of the nurseries. Within 18-months the propagated corals are ready to be transplanted to a degraded part of the house reef. Each piece of coral that is replanted helps the reef to prosper and allows coral adoptees to play a vital role. The main objective of coral restoration is to revive species of hard corals which provide the structure for the rest of the reef community which includes soft corals, sea urchins, crustaceans and fish. However, it is not enough to just transplant hard coral as a healthy reef lives in harmony with the species that live on and around it. Herbivorous fish such as parrotfish are important for helping coral to reproduce as

they consume seaweed which competes for space with coral on the reef and the resident biologist has instigated a programme to eliminate cushion starfish as they prohibit new coral growth. The Kids Marine Biology Programme introduces kids ranging from eight upwards to diving and snorkelling and teaches them in a fun and interesting way about the reef eco-system and the diversity of the reef community. The programme fosters a love of the ocean and its many creatures and even kids as young as eight, bubble makers as they are endearingly called, can learn to dive to 2-meters and 10-year-old kids and older can participate in the discover scuba-diving programme. Children get handson learning experience through a 3-series programme including puzzles, word search, activities, research and night snorkelling. In addition to the Kids Marine Biology Programme, once a week at Thiththi Boli Kids Club, the marine biologist tells the tiny visitors (4 to 12 year’s old) reef stories and takes them to visit the underwater SEA restaurant to teach them how to identify fish in their natural habitat.

Kurumba Maldives Celebrates Earth Day Kurumba Maldives honored the special day with several activities across the island to raise awareness about the dangers of plastic pollution and to protect endangered species. Earth Day at Kurumba Maldives began on April 22, 2019 with a clean-up activity around beach and lagoon area from early morning, followed by a trip to clean up trash in a remote sandbank nearby. Later in the evening, a reef cleanup activity was held by Euro Divers. A huge amount of trash, mainly plastics were collected during these activities alerting everyone

about the major environmental issue pollution the world’s ocean. While across the globe, people are looking for ways to give back to the environment in which they live. At Kurumba Maldives, tree planting activity was held with the participation of many guests from all ages. A special Mystery of Kurumba tour was conducted, educating guests in the effective recycling process at the back of the house. The highlight of Earth Day this year at Kurumba was the launch of their “Fish-bins”. In the shape of fishes, these four wire art sculptures were

individually hand crafted with an aim to use art as a call to action. Each of these fish sculptures has its own name and story and was filled with plastic bottles to symbolize the threats of plastics to the ocean and its marine life. The event ended with an urge to everyone who cares about the future of our planet to adopt new behaviors and habits to ensure the actions become part of our daily routine.

Exclusive Interview with Giles Selves, General Manager of Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas From a career start as a waiter at a luxury 5-star hotel in London to the tropical beach vibes of Maldives, Giles Selves has whirled his way through the hospitality industry, demonstrating the ability to work in challenging and competitive environments, one department at a time.

Tell us about your “journey to GM” – how did it all begin?

time. In my early 30s while working in Brussels I also completed my MBA. I accomplished my education the way I wanted to do it-in my own time.

there is a career out there, there is an opportunity to travel the world, to be able to improve the quality of life that I had quite a fascinating journey. there family has. I think it is one of my Firstly, I am a high school dropout biggest takeaways from the industry. who chose not to pursue my “A” Then I moved to Greece to open two I was offered the chance to move to My role as a foreign expat here is to Levels. Hospitality has always been my resorts as a Hotel Manager, a Westin Maldives a year ago. Anantara Kihavah develop people and allow them to passion, but I rebelled as a 17-year-old and a Luxury Collection next to Maldives Villas would be considered grow and ultimately see a Maldivian and in doing so, I decided not to get each other, both had 750 rooms, 20 to many as Minor Hotels’ flagship General Manager here. For me the into University, and to pursue a career restaurants and bars, a 4,000sqm spa, property. I have only been here for a role of an expat is to come in with a in hospitality. My father offered me a ballroom with a capacity of up to year and I am currently in the process skill set that does not exist and to 30-day rent-free at home and I was 1500 guests. I opened the village and of evolving my role. I will be soon train, develop and work with the local told to pay the rent then onwards. I our entire team had a capacity of 850 settling down at Anantara Veli and will community and people to give them managed to find a job as a local waiter, people. be overseeing our four properties in what they need to be able to sustain and before that, I washed dishes at a the Maldives: Anantara Veli, Anantara it themselves, and not having to rely local pub. My next assignment was eighteen Dhigu, Naladhu and Anantara Kihavah. on foreigners to come and do that. It months in Bangkok where I opened may be a slow and long process, but In 1996, I began working as a waiter the St.Regis Bangkok as the If I were able to go back in time, I I believe that is an important part of at Starwood in Central London where Hotel Manager; that was my first would have still not studied law. I what we, as expats should be doing I did a number of food and beverage introduction to Minor Hotels as they made the right decision. I have lived from a leadership perspective. related jobs. My last job there was owned the hotel franchise in Bangkok. in multiple countries and have been to a Chief Steward, I then moved to over 80 countries, and met many great In terms of challenges, the Park Lane Hotel where I supervised In 2012, I moved to Jakarta to complete people and had some of the most hospitality industry is evolving fast. banqueting, and later everything apart the opening of Keraton at The Plaza, incredible experiences one could have So is technology, and the way we from banqueting and later other areas a Luxury Collection Hotel. I spent an in life. It’s been a fabulous 24-year embrace it and use it to deliver guest in food and beverage. Next, I moved to incredible 3 years in Jakarta, it is a journey! experiences. Environmental issues are Turnberry in Scotland as the Food and fantastic and dynamic city. becoming more and more important Beverage Manager at the age of 25. From where do you draw your and the need for sustainability and It was one of the oldest grand dame After my 3 year stint in Jakarta, I had inspiration in the hospitality industry? an environment friendly culture hotels in the UK which had a worlddecided to move back to Bangkok is even more important. I think class golf course. I had an amazing where my wife was working for Minor In many places! I am a very selfparticularly in the luxury space, luxury 3 years there running the food and Hotels at the time. I received an email motivated and self-driven person travelers are demanding the places beverage department. from Caroline Stevens, the Chief and for a GM to be working for Minor they stay to provide environment People Officer at Minor Hotels asking Hotels, that is the mindset you have to friendly experiences. Luxury travel Then I moved to Brussels to the me if I was interested to join Anantara have. We own the business, it is ours is becoming even more experiential Starwood Corporate Office for Europe Mai Khao and the Vacation Club. For and we are responsible for it, in every then it has been in the past and as and Middle East where I performed me, hotels are very emotional places, way shaped good and bad. In addition, the younger generation are becoming a number of roles over a 5-year and you often know straight away that is the environment I love working the majority of travelers. As the period. My first job was with the when you arrive if you fit or not for a in. millennials takeover, they look for architecture and design team where job. I remember walking through the personalized individual experiences, I worked on food and beverage archway with my wife at Anantara Mai I take a massive amount of inspiration and it is how we create and curate, restaurant concepts, and then I Khao the first time I got there, I told from my team. What the team does because personalization will become joined the Marketing Department my wife I would love to be the GM here every single day motivates and key and how we use technology to where I worked on brand projects of that hotel and at that point, I had inspires me. They do some amazing drive personalization and to develop across many different spectrums for no idea that was going to happen. I things for our guests here and that experiences is something we need to W, St.Regis, Sheraton, Westin and Le am incredibly grateful to have been is very powerful. We all have our bad focus on. Méridien. My next assignment was with offered the chance to join Minor days, but we do not have it often here the development team for eighteen Hotels as I knew that following my because it is such an amazing place. How would you define service in luxury months doing third-party restaurant 18 months in Phuket it would lead to When I have a bad day I think of the hospitality? and bar operation sales where I many more fantastic opportunities energy and the effort the team puts signed deals with prominent chefs with the company. in and what they do, often not easy It has to be unique and bespoke for and bar operators. During this I was circumstances like yesterday with the every single person. I think the days often travelling and met and worked Next, I moved to Sri Lanka to finish the challenges we had due to bad weather, we managed the customer the way we with some amazing people during opening of Anantara Kalutara. There and that inspires me. If I look back want to manage them are long gone, those 5 years. Whilst working, I also were about 20 rooms opened when I over my 24-year career, Mr.Heinecke and it no longer works that way. We completed my BA in Business partgot there. I also had responsibilities is an inspiration, and what he has as luxury hoteliers have to adapt and done to Minor Hotels as a whole and deliver what a guest wants and that is Anantara as a brand is extremely both from an experiential perspective inspirational. and a standard delivery perspective. Breakfast does not finish at 10.30am anymore, it finishes when the guests does not want breakfast anymore. With What have been your biggest all the different time zones we operate takeaways from the hospitality in, it is something we have to think industry? Tell us about the keys issues about. Personalization of experiences it is struggling with? are massive - contacting guests prior their arrival, understanding what My number one takeaway is you their preferences are and making get out what you put in. If you work sure we put the products they want hard and have the right attitude, you in their mini-bar are all part of luxury can achieve anything you want to. hospitality. Many hotels put fruits I’ve come a long way from where I bowl in the rooms, but putting a fruit first started and now I oversee four bowl in the room for guests on their amazing luxury hotels in paradise. arrival, for me is not part of a luxury It’s been a long exciting journey to hotel experience. In a luxury hotel, get here, and I hope that provides they ask the guest what fruit they want inspiration and allows people who and ensure they have it in their room don’t know what they want to do or have the opportunity to know that

For me the role of an expat is to come in with a skill set that does not exist and to train, develop and work with the local community and people to

give them what they need to be able to sustain it themselves, and not

having to rely on foreigners to come and do that”

to oversee Avani Kalutara, which was next door, and to look after Anantara Tangalle in the South, which opened over a year ago.

12 when they arrive. We do not do what is easy for us, we do what our guests want. I also believe that in a luxury resort like this, spending time with the customers are extremely important. I meet 90% of my guests on their arrival, and if I am not available, the hotel manager will be meeting them. At times that stretches us, and we have to react very quickly and often manage a lot of moving parts, which is a challenge. However, if you want to deliver a unique and memorable guest experience, then you have to focus on those individual details for the guests. How has Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas evolved since its opening? What’s new at the resort? We are 8 years old now. We are lucky that we have one of the best islands in the Maldives, physically in terms of our beach, our reef, our environment and our 300 coconut trees. Fifteen months ago, we added the SKY bar and over-water observatory. That is the biggest physical change we made over the last few years, and almost everything else here has been from the beginning. We also added a second three-bedroom residence about eighteen months ago and it has been very successful. We will be making several changes and renovations this year; “SALT” our Asian restaurant will be completely renovated in June, “Manzaru” restaurant will be renovated in September. We will be renovating our spa to evolve our wellness treatments in summer this year. We are also planning to renovate our kids club and later in the year before we get back into high season. We are going to renovate our residences. So, there’s quite a lot of new things which is coming up and is very exciting. What will your guests rave about to their friends and family? Our team! Our people is what gives this Island its heart and soul. We have a physically beautiful island, and we have lots of great products including our villas and restaurants, but what I would want most is people to go back and tell their friends the name of the waiter who served their breakfast, or the room attended who cleaned their room. Guests come back for the people - people may come back because it’s a beautiful island, but that’s not the real reason why they come back. They come back because the team here made them feel special and gave them an experience they never received anywhere else. So, they come back to see those people and experience it again. If someone who stayed here goes back and takes the time to write

VOL 34 | May 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

on social media the name of the person that cleaned their villa or served breakfast, there is nothing more powerful than that in terms of delivering guest experiences.

the local communities. How do you envision sustainability in the future of hospitality?

I think if it is not fundamental today, it will become fundamental in the How do you think technology has luxury space. We do not use plastic changed the hospitality industry? bottles for shampoo, shower gel, conditioner or to serve water. I think Technology affects how we deliver in luxury space there is a huge drive guests experiences. There are a from the customer to be much more lot of good things and many that environmental friendly than we make it harder. I think It allows us currently are right now. I think as an to deliver a much more seamless industry, generally we are behind guests experience than before in where we should be and we need to do terms of how we communicate about more as an industry. We are one of the things internally - which is positive. first brands to ban plastic straws. We However, as technology evolves, I should not be using plastics and there think the expectations in terms of are plenty of other environmental speed of delivery and time of response friendly ways to do it. shrinks. If you go back ten years and tell a customer that, you would be Maldives is one of the places that has responding in 24 hours, that would the potential to be one of the most be all right, but if you tell somebody, impacted by environmental change you will respond in 24 hours now, that over the next 20-30 years. I think is too long. Technology will become there is a lot more to be done and more important than ever, we will specifically in the Maldives, it would need to embrace it, and we should be be great to see the government add pushing the envelope in terms of how more regulations about improving we use it to drive guest experience and environmental practices. personalize it. We ask our customers to donate $1 a Ever since Anantara opened its first day for our coral restoration project. hotel in 2001, it has continued to We as a business match their dollar for create luxury travel experiences that dollar in the big scheme of the amount also benefit the environment and of money people spend when they

stay here. Using that as an educational opportunity for our guests and explaining to them why we are doing it and how we are doing it, we give them the opportunity to snorkel or dive our reef and see how corals grow on ropes, they get to work with our marine biologist to see it been transplanted out on the reef. We our very lucky that we have the opportunity to educate people about the importance of environmental friendly practices. If you had one piece of advice to give to someone starting out, what would you say? Work hard and have the right attitude. Be prepared to listen, learn and make mistakes. Making mistakes is healthy as long you learn from them, you learn more from getting it wrong and figuring it out how to do it right next time then getting it right in the first place. Be open and honest, and always care for your people. You get out what you put it and this industry is a very rewarding business to be in with many opportunities on the horizon.

VOL 34 | May 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

BON APPÉTIT

Lobster salad with young coconut, pomelo and citrus, fruit Description Lobster salad made with Lobster medallions, lotus root, pomelo, young coconut, orange, grape fruit, fresh coriander, Dressing made with coriander, coconut milk, infuse spices, lime

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Ingredients

Garnish

Maldivian lobster Lobster Medium size -1(500to 600gm) Boiled in the water for 7 minutes peeled and slice

Curry leaf -crispy fried 10gm Lotus root -crispy fried 5gm

Lotus root Boiled and thin slice -15gm Pomelo fruit peeled 15gm Young coconut 15gm – young coconut flesh, Orange 15gm-segments Grape fruit 15gm -segments Fresh coriander leaf 5gm Water cress 15gm Coriander lime dressing 50ml

Method Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and dressed with coriander lime dressing, garnish with crispy curry leaf and lotus root Coriander lime dressing Lemon grass – 1 stem Lime leaf – 5 numbers Ginger – 50gm Curry leaf- 5numbers Green chili-3 numbers Coriander root – 5numbers Water – 500ml Coconut milk – 200ml Lime – 3 number medium size Boil water with all ingredient expect coconut milk, and lime juice Reduce until half Add coconut milk and lime juice seasoning with salt

Courtesy of Mr. Prabhash Prabhakaran | Executive Chef Anantara Kihavah Villas| Kihavah Huravalhi Island, Baa Atoll

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VOL 34 | May 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

NEW APPOINTMENTS

Deepak Booneady appointed as new Group Director of Business Development of Sun Siyam Resorts As Group Director of Business Development, Deepak will be overseeing relationships with key partners, developing sales growth strategies together with revenue management, and enhance brand development for all the Sun Siyam properties; The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives, Sun Aqua Vilu Reef Maldives, Olhuveli Beach & Spa Maldives, Sun Aqua Iru Veli Maldives and Sun Aqua Pasikudah Sri Lanka. He will also head the travel agency arm of the group, Sun Travels & Tours. Deepak brings over 20 years of experience and success in luxury leisure industry. He has been associated with leading premium brands, such as LUX* Resorts and Hotels as Regional Director of Sales & Marketing, where he has been a key figure in driving sales and product positioning. An avid reader and an idealist, he looks at broadening his knowledge through education. He has completed a few Executive Programs at Harvard Business School (USA). On his new appointment Deepak said, “I am really excited with this new challenge.

And it does not feel completely new, I am surrounded by familiar faces and longtime industry friends. This is going to be a thrilling journey for all of us at Sun Siyam”. With the attainments, steady growth and massive plans for the future, the group is excited as much in having Deepak steering Sun Siyam group to greater success. We are conﬁdent in building much stronger business relationship with our partners and enhance growth of the group with his charismatic personality and the energetic team behind him.

New Appointments at Milaidhoo and Nautilus Maldives Mr. Mohamed Ashraf has been appointed as the new General Manager at the Nautilus Maldives. Prior to his new appointment, he was working at Niyama Private Island Maldives as the Resort Manager since May 2016. After he graduated and completed his BTEC Diploma in Tourism Management in 1999, Ashraf joined a local hotel group, AAA Hotels & Resorts as a marketing executive. He later joined Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts and whirled his way up as the resort’s Front Desk Manager.

industry who holds a Master’s in Business Administration from the Anglia Ruskin University, UK. During his 13 years in the industry, he had worked with several brands such as JA Resorts, Hilton and Per AQUUM, and has played major roles in sales and marketing at many luxury resorts across the Maldives.

Mr. Ibrahim Inad has been appointed as the new Director of Sales at Milaidhoo Island Maldives. Before he joined the management at Milaidhoo, Inad previously worked at the same position at Velaa Private Island Maldives.

Following his position at Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Ashraf relocated to several resorts Inad brings in 15 years of Maldivian tourism which were owned by world-renowned Thai and hospitality industry experience to Hospitality Group, Minor Hotels. Milaidhoo Island. Starting off as a Food and Beverage Supervisor at the ever so popular Mr. Amjad Thaufeeg has joined Milaidhoo Huvafen Fushi Maldives, Inad then joined Island Maldives and Nautilus Maldives as the Velaa Private Island Maldives in 2013 as a Cluster Director of Sales & Marketing. Before Sales and Marketing Executive. He worked taking up the position, he was previously the his way up the corporate ladder to Sales Director of Sales & Marketing at Kanuhura Manager and finally as the Director of Sales. Maldives. Inad graduated from Taylor’s University in Malaysia with a Bachelor’s degree in Tourism Along with over 13 years of experience in the and Travel Services Management. tourism industry under his belt, Amjad is a highly trained professional in the hospitality

VOL 34 | May 2019 | www.theislandchief.com