The Islandchief, Travel Tabloid 37 |August Issue 2019

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

VOL 37 | August 2019 | www.islandchief.com

South Asian Travel Awards 2019 - SATA Opportunity & Conversation on 19th September - Gala & Awards on 20th September

Page: 20

Meet the Tastemakers, Soneva’s Culinary Dream Team

Page: 9

Exclusive Interview with

Ooredoo Celebrating 14 years

NEWTON CROSS

in Maldives

Trainer & Principal of SABA International Butler Academy

Page: 10

Page: 17

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VOL 37 | August 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

AVIATION PRESS

Singapore and Maldives Signed Open Skies Agreement and Memorandum of Understanding

The President of Maldives H.E Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and the Prime Minister of Singapore, H.E Lee Hsien Loong has overseen the signing of two Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between their respective governments.

The MOUs comprise of an updated Air Services Agreement, that will help improve air connectivity, establishing greater commercial links and facilitating social liaison between two countries; and an MOU on cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Maldives and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Singapore, which will give further impetus to the bilateral ties through establishing a framework of regular consultation.

weekly services to Male’, the capital of the Maldives.

Singapore has been operating direct services to Maldives since 1984, it is the first time it has been done under an open skies agreement and using a Boeing Dreamliner 787-10 to Maldives. This new route will allow both countries to operate as many services between both the countries and beyond (as a fifth freedom flight) including cargo and passenger flights.

President Halimah Yacob, hosted President Solih to a state lunch and stated that “since diplomatic ties were established in 1975, the links between the two countries and its peoples have been growing steadily. The Open Skies Agreement will bring the people and businesses even closer together. Air connectivity is a crucial lifeline for our economies.

It supports tourism and connects people and services”.

Senior Minister of State for Transport Lam Pin Min, who signed the air pact with Maldives’ Foreign Affairs Minister Abdulla Shahid, also said it “underscores the strong bilateral ties between Singapore and Maldives, and will enable greater movement of people and goods between the two countries to benefit both our economies”.

between the countries’ foreign ministries will further strengthen cooperation not only bilaterally, but also at international fora. It was inked between Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Mr. Maliki Osman and Mr. Abdulla Shahid.

In her speech, Madam Halimah expressed Singapore’s appreciation for the Maldives’ support and cooperation at the United Nations and other multilateral platforms, along with the Maldives’ leadership as chair of the Alliance of Small Island States from 2015 to 2018.

Madam Halimah also said that Singapore is happy to continue sharing its developmental experiences, and announced that the Republic will offer a twoyear technical cooperation package in governance and sustainable development for the Maldives.

She noted that Singapore Airlines was one of the first airlines to start direct flights to and from the Maldives in 1984, and this supports the active presence of Singapore companies such as Banyan Tree and Hotel Properties in the Maldives, and the thousands of Maldivian visitors to Singapore every year.

Meanwhile, Madam Halimah said that both countries have worked well together in the international To date, more than 1,300 Maldivian officials arena and share many common interests as a small have participated in the Singapore Cooperation island nation.

Programme, which provides courses and training for officials from other nations. Singapore has also “Singapore and the Maldives are both located at the hosted customised study visits for the Maldives in centre of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes, areas including education, finance, law and port and are highly susceptible to global strategic, management. economic and environmental forces,” she said.

Currently, Singapore carriers operate a total of 20

Madam Halimah noted that the agreement signed

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VOL 37 | August 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

AVIATION PRESS

Over 35 destinations on ‘SriLankan Travel Fest’ Discounts up to 40% on Business Class & 25% on Economy class This offer gives travelers the freedom to travel anytime over a lengthy period from 27th July 2019 to 15th July 2020 on Business Class. This valuable promotion can only be booked over a 9-day period starting on 20th July 2019 and ending on 28th July 2019.

SriLankan Airlines launches ‘SriLankan Travel Fest’ offering an amazing discount of 40% on Business Class and 25% on Economy class tickets to over 35 destinations when booked through its online channel www. srilankan.com.

The SriLankan Airlines “Travel Fest” for Economy Class travel that would follow shortly enables passengers to enjoy travels from 15th September 2019 to 15th July 2020.

experience when making their bookings online. With exclusive fares, more flexibility on date changes and a world of other benefits, srilankan.com also allows customers to stay in charge of their own bookings by bringing the world to their fingertips. Passengers can even indulge in a host of other facilities including booking their preferred seat in advance, bidding for a Business Class seat and booking their favorite meals when making their ticket bookings online.

A member of the oneworld global airline More than 35 destinations are up for grabs partnership, SriLankan Airlines operates a in this offer, with limited numbers of seats route network of 111 cities in 48 countries for certain destinations and discounts from its hub in Colombo and also connects being awarded on a first-come-first-served to over 1,000 cities in 160 countries basis. through its oneworld partner airlines. Sri Log on to www.srilankan.com/srilankanLanka’s national carrier has won a string travel-fest for more details. of recent international awards including ‘World’s Leading Airline to the Indian With enhanced user convenience and Ocean’ at the World Travel Awards; and added features, srilankan.com aims to ‘Asia’s Leading Airline to the Indian Ocean’ give its passengers the ultimate customer at World Travel Awards Asia Australasia.

Singapore Airlines and Malaysia Airlines signs MOU for Wide-Ranging Co-Operation Singapore Airlines (SIA) and Malaysia Airlines Berhad (MAB) on 27th June 2019 inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to significantly step up co-operative ties.

opportunities for both carriers. Both airlines have extensive operations within ASEAN, as well as large networks that cover many other parts of the world.

We are proud to announce this MOU to expand the scope of our cooperation, Under the terms of the MOU, the two increase global connectivity for Malaysia airline groups will explore a wide-ranging and Singapore, and enhance our service strategic partnership to build on their offerings for our customers,” said SIA’s existing code-share agreement that covers Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Goh Choon flights between Singapore and Malaysia.

Phong.

Enhanced ties could include a significant expansion of code-share flights beyond Malaysia Airlines’ Group Chief Executive Singapore-Malaysia routes, as well as Officer, Captain Izham Ismail, said, enhancements on the frequent flyer “Malaysia Airlines has always historically programme front. Other potential cohad strong commercial and cultural links operation could involve cargo as well as with Singapore Airlines. My team and I are maintenance, repair and overhaul services. extremely pleased to be able to build on All these are subject to obtaining the that close relationship even further, this necessary regulatory approvals. A formal time across many areas of both airlines’ agreement is intended to be finalized in ecosystems.” the coming months and will also include SIA subsidiaries SilkAir and Scoot, as well “The agreement will also, for the first time, as Firefly, the sister airline of MAB. involve all five airlines in total including subsidiaries Firefly, SilkAir and Scoot via “SIA and MAB operate in a region this partnership and we look forward with a rapidly growing air travel adding more value to the customer market, presenting significant growth proposition,” added Captain Izham.

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VOL 37 | August 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

NEW OPENINGS

Emerald Maldives Resort and Spa opened their doors Emerald Maldives opened their doors to tourists showing the pristine white sand beaches leading to clear blue ocean water, with a sanctuary of overwater bungalows, most with their own pools and Jacuzzis in addition to a collection of private villas on August 2019.

Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa is located on one of the best atolls, Raa atoll taking only 40 minutes to directly reach the paradiselike island while overseeing the alluring beauty of the islands and the mysterious waters of the Maldives or a 30-minutes domestic flight to the Ifuru Domestic Airport (particularly convenient to easily connect with the Velana International Airport (VIA) in case of evening’s international flights) and a 15 minutes speedboat ride will complete the journey.

The resort is considered a real sanctuary to escape from modern life troubles. Couples, families or solo travelers are welcomed to have a personalized experience at Emerald Maldives.

Emerald Maldives consists of 120 Villas in which 60 are located on the island and six found directly on the sea, built from materials such as bamboo, natural stones and langhi leaves, balancing out with the surrounding natural environment and the modern design combined with the tropical vibes make it the best memorable experience.

The Spa of Emerald is built in Balinese style, offering Balinese and Thai treatments in 10 airconditioned Bungalows in total privacy, including a relaxing area with Turkish births, sauna and Jacuzzi. The four restaurants of the resort provide delicacies ranging from Mediterranean, to Asian and South American cuisines.

Other offerings of the resort include, a sports facility fully equipped with a vast collection of gadgets and latest video games, incorporated with a Kids Club, a state-of-the-art Technogym, two tennis courts, two paddle courts and a water sports center with qualified assistance received and equipment offered for all age grouped guests to loosen up and relax amide the exquisite scenery.

With the closely surrounded reef around the island, the Diving center is specially mentioned as the ideal experience with the exposure to the magnificent underwater scenarios and highly professional instructors bringing the guests to indulge in the natural and attention-seeking attractions of the resort.

The Baglioni Resort Maldives: the Italian side of the Maldives The Baglioni Resort Maldives opened their doors to the visitors on 1st August 2019 with a special opening rate available for bookings confirmed in the travel period between 1st August to 30th September, 2019.

Basking on the island of Maagau in pristine Dhaalu atoll, just a 40-minute seaplane ride from the capital Malé, the Resort’s 96 exquisite villas are surrounded by tropical nature, turquoise waters and velvet-smooth white sands. The Resort has been planned in meticulous detail for guests to experience a tailor-made stay in the heart of the Indian Ocean with exclusive Italian hospitality by Baglioni Hotels.

Designed with methods and materials carefully chosen to minimise the environmental impact, the Baglioni Resort Maldives is the ideal destination for those looking to indulge a love of nature and sport on an exclusive holiday steeped in beauty. To add to the effect, we partner with prestigious Italian brands like Ferrari Trento, makers of the world’s favourite Italian bubbly, Frette, for sumptuous handmade bed linen

and bath towels, MC2 Saint Barth, chic swimwear with original designs, and Insìum innovative anti-ageing cosmetics.

At the Baglioni Resort Maldives, nothing is left to chance. The holiday experience includes multilingual staff on hand 24/7, a freshwater swimming pool, butler service, laundry and a beach service with loungers. There is a pool bar and three restaurants, a spa

with yoga pavilion deep in unsullied nature, a boutique for treating yourself to a spot of shopping, and a Kids’ Club to keep younger guests aged 3–12 well entertained. All for an unforgettable holiday with a feast of sport, relaxation and gourmet experiences.

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VOL 37 | August 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

NEW APPOINTMENTS

BML Appoints Timothy Sawyer as the new CEO Bank of Maldives has appointed Mr.Timothy Sawyer as its new Chief Executive Officer. Tim has over 30 years of international experience in financial services, including 20 years at Executive and Board level. He joins Bank of Maldives from his position as the Chief Investment Officer at Innovate UK, the investment arm of the UK Government.

Prior to Innovate UK, Tim was the CEO of Start Up Loans, where for his services to the UK industry in developing small businesses and entrepreneurs, he was awarded Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) by Queen Elizabeth.

Tim has had the honor of leading several financial institutions including Cahoot and Kent Reliance, and was the Chairman at Banque Dubois of Switzerland as well as Folk2Folk, a lending organization based in UK.

Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort Welcomes Adlakha as Director of Sales and Marketing As DOSM, Adlakha is responsible for generating top-line revenue for the property by securing new accounts, maintaining existing ones and executing sales strategies to boost hotel profitability.

Outrigger Hospitality Group has named Sonika Adlakha as Director of Sales and Marketing (DOSM) for the Asia Trading IC-December 2018.pdf 1 11/30/2018 10:45:47 AM Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort, effective July 17, 2019.

sales head MICE India for Las Vegas Sands Corporation; and assistant director of business development for Shangri-La Hotel in Mumbai. With three major international pre-openings under her belt, she is also familiar with operations having worked in front office, guest relations and housekeeping.

of the most sought-after luxury destination experiences in The Maldives.”

The private island of Konotta is located 211 miles (340 kilometres) to the south of Malé. It is conveniently accessible via a She reports to the property’s 55-minute flight from Velana general manager, John Allanson, International Airport (VIA) to with a dotted line to Outrigger Kaadedhdhoo Airport followed vice president sales and Adlakha holds a bachelor’s in by a scenic 30-minute luxury marketing, Asia Pacific, Andrew hotel management from Ramaiah speedboat journey.

Gee. College of Hotel Management in Bangalore, and an MBA from The award-winning Outrigger Most recently director of sales for the Symbiosis Institute of Konotta Maldives Resort offers villa ownership for Soneva Jani Management Studies in Pune, guests the largest average villa and Soneva Fushi in the Maldives, India. sizes in the Maldives. Comprising Adlakha was also director of 29 Beach Pool Villas, 21 Ocean sales for Sun Aqua Vilu Reef, Sun “Sonika brings great sales and Pool Villas, two Lagoon Pool Villas Aqua Iru Veli in the Maldives marketing experience and and the three-bedroom Grand and Sun Aqua Pasikudah in Sri contacts to Outrigger,” says Konotta Villa, the resort offers a Lanka; cluster director of sales Allanson. “She will help us complete sense of privacy and for Al Nahda Hotels & Resorts, consolidate and grow Outrigger intimate luxury.

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VOL 37 | August 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

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VOL 37 | August 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

ISLAND PRESS

Starred Italian Chef Andrea Berton lands in the Maldives at You & Me and Cocoon The highly celebrated gourmet week returns to the Maldives this August, starring Michelin Star Chef Andrea Berton and his gourmet creations, which combines tradition and innovation. The special event will be hosted at You & Me Maldives in Raa Atoll and at their sister resort in Lhaviyani Atoll, Cocoon Maldives.

Chef Andrea Berton to their lucky guests. Berton’s talent and experience will reach Maldives with 3 unmissable appointments at Cocoon Maldives on 8-10 August 2019 and You & Me Maldives on 13-15 August 2019.

Celebrating Italian and International cuisine, the two resorts will offer 6 exclusive gourmet events by

During Gourmet Week, gastronomic tastings and gala dinners will also be hosted to showcase Berton’s talent and culinary experience.

Benjarong Restaurant named best in the region for Thai cuisine at the World Luxury Restaurant Awards 2019 Benjarong Restaurant at Dusit Thani Maldives was named the best restaurant for Thai

Cuisine in the Indian Ocean Continent at the World Luxury Restaurant Awards 2019, held 6 July 2019 at The State Hermitage Museum Official Hotel, St. Petersburg, Russia.

Established in 2015, the World Luxury Restaurant Awards is voted for annually by more than 100,000 guests, travellers and key industry players. This is the second consecutive year that Benjarong has received the regional award, which recognizes the restaurant’s commitment to serving authentic Thai cuisine made using the finest ingredients.

With an impressive overwater setting

and a vibrant open kitchen led by expert Thai chefs, Benjarong Thai Restaurant at Dusit Thani Maldives provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere in which to enjoy authentic renditions of Thailand’s most famous dishes, as well as contemporary creations designed to elevate traditional Thai recipes. Sights, sounds and aromas combine to create a feast for all the senses.

“We are delighted that the quality of our offerings has been recognized for the second year running at the World Luxury Restaurant Awards,” said Mr. Korakot Nachalaem, Resident Manager, Dusit Thani Maldives.

“We are committed to bringing the very best dining experience to our guests, and this award is a testament to the exquisite tastes and fine service that our team delivers at Benjarong.”

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VOL 37 | August 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

ISLAND PRESS Renowned for its one-ofa-kind dining experiences, Soneva is inviting guests to meet the Tastemakers – the dedicated, international line-up of skilled chefs and sommeliers who create culinary magic every day at Soneva’s world-leading luxury resorts in Thailand and the Maldives.

Meet the Tastemakers, Soneva’s Culinary Dream Team Soneva invites guests to get to know the masters behind the menus with new film series.

Premiered on July 16, 2019 and running until early December, the new Tastemakers film series will introduce members of the talented food and beverage teams across Soneva Fushi, Soneva Jani and Soneva Kiri offering a rare behindthe-scenes glimpse into everyday life in Soneva’s bustling kitchens, as well as a fascinating insight into each Tastemakers’ personal journey, cooking style and gastronomic philosophy.

What makes a Soneva dinner an experience that will be remembered for a lifetime is a combination of the passion of some of the world’s best chefs and sommeliers working hand-in-hand with expert gardeners, fishermen and suppliers who provide the finest and freshest ingredients available.

The Tastemakers team includes Chef Benz, Chef Kenji Gyoten, Chef Sira, Chef Sobah, Chef David, Chef Priyantha, Chef Ansari, Chef Jenefer, Chef Ravi and Kichii Okabe to create a unique and unexpected dining experience that will take their guests breath away.

Baa Atoll Summer Festival closing ceremony

The closing ceremony of of Baa Atoll Summer festival, the Second Edition successfully took place on July 22.

Twelve resorts came together on an island-hopping extravaganza in which guests can embark on a unique dine-around voyages to celebrate this year, following the resounding success of the festival last year. The resorts include, Amilla Fushi, Anantara Kihavah, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, Dreamland, Dusit Thani, Finolhu, Four Seasons Landaa, Reethi Beach, Royal

Island, Soneva Fushi, The Westin Maldives and Vakkaru Maldives.

The festival took place from 8th to 21st July by showcasing each resort’s gastronomical delights and reaffirmed their reputation as a must-visit summer destination.

The event was officially commenced on July 7th with a series of exclusive Sunset Cocktail events for guests.

The participating resorts welcomed their neighbors’ by setting a special

menu dinner in their featured dining Full Moon Island Clean-up Day. restaurant on designated nights throughout the two consecutive weeks. Lastly, the summer festival was concluded with the closing ceremony The Resorts had an action-packed held on 22nd of July by everyone calendar of activities arranged to coming together on a sandbank for entertain the guests during the a day of fun, with a beach party for festival fortnight, which included, the guests, round-robin volleyball conservation events, water experience, final match and the show-stopping beach activities and more. Following Catamaran Regatta competition at the the tradition of last year, a roundheart of UNESCO Biosphere Reserve robin inter-resort Beach Volleyball showcasing the unity of 12 resorts that Tournament was introduced between participated. the staff and guests, in addition to a

Exclusive Interview with

NEWTON CROSS Trainer & Principal of SABA International Butler Academy Newton Cross has become a household name when it comes to butler training across the uber chic and luxury resorts in the Maldives. We had the pleasure to interview the man behind “SABA”, South African Butler Academy - world renowned for its modern approach to Butler Service in private households, resorts, exclusive yachts and passenger liners.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself? How did your career in the hospitality industry begin?

I have always been in the hospitality industry.

I am passionate, creative and innovative and these qualities have always been my driving force. I have always been extremely independent, finding entrepreneurialism and mindfulness a very appealing quality. At the age of nine, I knew that I wanted to become a Butler.

I had a passion for cooking and entertaining and once I discovered the world of baking, I began making cakes and selling them. At this point a young entrepreneur was born. At that stage, being a Butler was not a recognized occupation in South Africa. I subsequently qualified as a Butler at the age of 19 at the School for Butlers and Household Personnel. I moved to England for three years where I worked for a prominent English family. I worked numerous contracts on the Queen Mary 2 as a Butler and waiter before returning to settle in South Africa. I then worked for a Dutch property tycoon in Cape Town. When my contract with the family ended, and the family returned to Europe for summer, they requested I supply Butlers from my school upon their return to South Africa. A need was recognized and the South African Butler Academy was born.

What are your main sources of inspiration?

King Louis IX, Martha Stewart, my previous clients and the active Butler Academy as I am continually learning something new every day. I am creative by nature, painting and playing the piano. I like to think ‘out-of-thebox’ and continually experiment with fresh

and innovative ideas. I am also extremely selfmotivated and continually looking for new ways to enhance and improve my business.

What are the main features that set your academy apart from the competition?

Our training methods, kindness, honesty and sincerity towards our students as each student holds a special place in our hearts forever. We are original, creative and always keep ahead of trends in the industry. We are a modern Butler Academy with a modern approach to training. We understand the industry needs extremely well and know what individual candidates require in order to advance in the profession and become successful. We are very active on social media.

How do you define luxury?

Luxury is an experience, it is time, devotion, engaging service, understanding what each client’s needs are and providing a promise of excellent service. Luxury is something that is not readily accessible to all; however, for those who encounter it, it should transcend all other experiences.

How crucial is personalized service in luxury hospitality today?

It is imperative. The best way to describe it is if you compare the difference between economy, business and first class where everything is personalized. Guests want their vacation experiences to be seamless and effortless and they want to be spoiled with experiences they will not encounter in their daily routines.

They are willing to pay for service that goes above and beyond. These services should be tailored to each and every guest’s individual needs and must be designed to add value to the overall guest experience.

Over the past decade, SABA has trained over 600 Butlers in Cape Town and at various international hotels and resorts. How has this influenced the future stars of the hospitality world?

Extremely well. This was always my vision to give others the opportunity I had. We have fulfilled the dreams of so many and continue to do so daily.

There are more and more resorts, hotels and lodges opening worldwide. There is a recognized need to improve on and to enhance the luxury services offered by these establishments. This may be seen in the number of enquiries we get from all over the world to provide Butler training at different establishments. The residential market is no different. The demand for household Butlers is increasing and we are constantly receiving requests for our Butlers to be placed in households.

Three years ago, you initiated Maldives’ first ever ‘open’ butler course. What were your key takeaways from it?

The Open course came about after many individual requests for Butler training. There is a hunger for this type of training in the Maldives. Many potential candidates were looking at ways to enhance their skill level and were unable to receive this training anywhere else. As we met with several clients in the Maldives, we decided to tailor a program for individuals with sound hospitality knowledge, as well as for those Butlers who are already in the field

Recognize that every interaction you have is an excellent opportunity to make a positive impact on others”

seeking a well-recognized qualification. It is heartwarming to see that a number of our Butlers who completed the course are now in senior roles. A SABA-trained Butler is well recognized.

In addition, the relationship we have subsequently built with Kurumba Maldives and Hulhule Island Hotel over the past three years is extremely important to us. These hotels have been so generous in hosting the Open course for SABA. From your recent visit to the Maldives, what are your thoughts on the number of locals that are starting their careers as butlers in the hospitality scene?

It is very encouraging and rewarding to see the number of local Maldivian people enrolling on the Butler course. They are known for their hospitality; they are extremely welcoming and make excellent Butlers. Many resorts undergo a rapid movement of Butlers from one resort to another. It is advisable for a Butler to stay in one resort and pursue experience and longevity in their career as opposed to island hopping.

We encourage women to take part in the training.

Many of our clients prefer female Butlers as they feel more comfortable with them. We see and train many female Butlers worldwide. However, there is still the misconception among many possible candidates that the Butler field is for males only.

This perception is slowly changing.

What do you envision for the International Butler Academy in the future?

We are launching our SABA ‘connect me’ Pods, allowing students to connect with our trainers

asking for advice and problem-solving whenever and wherever they are in the world. We have an opendoor policy to each of our student’s success. We truly see ourselves as the guardians of Butler service for the future. I have also created a new Ambassador program where individuals join our team in assisting with training needs across the world.

We have grown so much internationally, however we would very much like to strengthen our international hub even further. We have formed our Vision 2025, which has the aim of SABA becoming a global force in the Butler profession.

If you had one piece of advice to give to someone starting out, what would you say?

Firstly, I wish someone could have advised me. I had to figure it out through trial and error. Times are different today, as we did not have the technology to give us an understanding or a vision of Butler service and hospitality. You must have the heart and passion for this industry first and then want to be in service. You should do what you want to do, follow what your heart tells you to do and use your talents to guide you. Once this decision is made, truly give it to yourself. Be creative, engage with other and build your brand of success.

There is no shortcut to being a successful Butler.

It takes hard work, perseverance and dedication.

You need to start at the bottom and never be afraid to learn as much as you can. Please remember, as someone once said, ‘the elevator to success is broken, take it step by step’.

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Seven Seas Dominator 64

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A Life Afloat A French family’s love for the Maldivian seas David Mesnard, opened doors to a new dimension with “Ocean Divine”, the first Maldives’ built live-aboard in 2003 with operations that began with 12 carpenters in 2006 on the island of Huraa in Kaafu Atoll. One of the unique elements of the project was that the boat was not built using a lot machinery, especially during a time when the Maldives did not have boatyards. Every boat has a story, this one filled with tremendous challenges we sat with David to hear his journey.

It all began in 1988, I was working at a resort as a sailing and windsurfing instructor and that is where I met my lovely wife. I got bored on the resort after six months, just sitting on the beach and looking at the islands far away.

I thought to myself, this is an island nation and the best mode to travel around is by boat, from one island to the other and could be the next best thing for me instead of sitting on an island and stay for too long.

So, after six months I resigned and I rented a small boat to do a few charters. I have always been driven to live close to nature and for me the best way to do it was to take a boat and travel around. At the beginning, I had a small operation, just taking people to the airport and BBQs at Kuda Bandos and people would stay with me. It was not comfortable because there was no electricity, bed, fresh water or cabins. Everyone had to sleep on the deck with sleeping bags or on a beach.

We had about 40 vessels in the Maldives in 2003, and if you look at now, there are over 170, small, luxury, and big. Twelve years ago, I incorporated certain design elements, which compliments the success and luxury of Ocean Divine staying afloat with a family living onboard today. Firstly, I believe Ocean Divine is currently the only boat where a family is living on it, and with our 9-year-old daughter who was born in France and came to the Maldives at the age of 1 month, and has been living onboard with us all her life.

In 2006, when my wife and I made the decision to have a child, we were already on the boat.

She was very positive and brave to decide to raise a child on the boat. Because not every woman would make this decision, and not every woman will agree it as a suitable life for a child. For example, if the child gets sick, the doctor could be miles away since we are the middle of the ocean. So, in terms of having the child onboard and raising her on the vessel, I have a lot of respect for my wife. Moreover,

my daughter has never been seriously sick, that we had to go to land and now she 9 years meaning she has lived 9 years on the boat. It is such a gift for a child to have this lifestyle.

We could not see ourselves establishing in one island or having a house, or going to school on one island because from day one, we wanted to bring the education, we wanted to teach our daughter onboard to the highest level. I have designed this space of almost 60 sqm where we could gather as a family. This is also where my daughter has her lessons, 3 hours of French and 3 hours of English. And having a child onboard means that the child absorbs so much information each week. She can talk to anyone on the boat and therefore learn about different backgrounds. One of the most important things for my daughter is that she learnt to swim since she was four, and dives since she was 5.

She dives with the sharks, whale sharks and mantas, but she does not know how to ride a bicycle for example, but she is not afraid of the ocean. She interacts with the whole crew and loves all of them and I believe growing up on this boat will be a too which will help her for the rest of her life.

Ocean Divine has enough room to accommodate, 13 crew, 14 to 16 guests and 2 diving instructors. I built the boat and I believe I should be on it to know how exactly to run it.

We never wait to replace parts, and we replace it before they break and I think that is the essence and also the advice I would give to the community. Maintenance is super important, because you can build a boat, but if you do not maintain it, within 3-4 years, the boat can be almost underwater. This is because we fight with the elements of nature, rough seas, sun, and rain. Like a resort, we are very vulnerable to these elements and have to constantly be aware of what is going on the boat. You have to know your boat and you also have to maintain it the right way. Therefore, when you get a profit out of your operations, instead of investing it to another operation, we focus on the maintanence of our boat. Just like if

you look at this boat, it has been running for 12 years straight, so of course we put a lot of money onto protecting our investment, so we can provide the same quality of service as its first day. And for this, there is nothing better than to have the owner onboard and it is a huge advantage. This is also one of the reasons why we have many repeat customers, 70% of our clientele being repeat customers.

It is a difficult business to keep the clients coming back, at the same time challenging to keep the crew happy and trained on a vessel.

Our goal for the crew is to keep them trained, but to avoid turnover, but also to also keep them happy on our boat. We give them way more than just a pay cheque for this. We want to make sure they fulfill their dreams and the dreams of their family members too. Our current captain, Mr. Ibrahim Hassan has been with us for more than 10 years, he is one of the best in this industry in the Maldives, if not the best, very faithful and loyal. He is just one of the examples of the crew who has been working on the boat for so long and we have entrusted him. They know the boat very well and they know us very well. They are the ones who have given us this lifestyle, because I did not give myself this lifestyle. They are the ones who made this possible, thus, I believe, in order to run a liveaboard, when you make a decision, it is very important to think of your crew, just as you think of your guests, because without the crew, nothing is possible.

Now we have decided to change our lifestyle over the next year or next two. We are currently searching for a buyer because we have decided to sell our boat. It is a tough decision, but one we made for our daughter, and it’s going to break our hearts to leave the Maldives.

However, we believe this is the right decision and the boat is in top-notch condition. Ocean divine is definitely a boat where a family can live in, and operate onboard. There is an office, a large living room, and we have 12 people to take care of the boat and the guests.

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LATEST NEWS

UK promotes destination Maldives “We understood that Maldives brand is seen by majority of the visitors as a luxury travel destination. They were unaware of the Guest House sector of our tourism industry.” Said Dr. Farahanaz Faisal.

Embassy of the Republic of Maldives in London has promoted destination Maldives at the Bedford Italian Festival. The activities, organized in goodwill by the Ambassador Dr. Farahnaz Faisal and her staff were carried out in cooperation with Mayfair Insurance who provided the space free of charge at the festival ground.

Bedford girls were dressed in culturally representative outfits greeting the visitors at the Mayfair stall who displayed luxury cars they insure, attracting a large number of visitors. The visitors were given information on travel options to the Maldives.

Bedford Italian Festival is a cultural festival held in Bedford to celebrate the diversity of the town with food, music and a display of Italian cars.

Bedford Borough has an estimated population of 170,000 and the festival was one of the most visited ones. Approximately 14,000 people of Italian descent lives in the area.

The embassy team spread information brochures that showcase the four products of the Maldives tourism industry; resorts, Italy and UK are major markets to guesthouses, liveaboards and hotels. Maldives holding 8.7% and 7.5% market share respectively. Arrival The Managing Director of Maldives figures from January to June rank Marketing & Public Relations Italy as the third market to Maldives Corporation, Mr. Thoyyib Mohamed with an increase of 33.7% while UK acknowledged the need to diversify shows 12.6% increase for the same tourism campaigns that will reach period compared to last year. travellers of all niches.

“We are grateful for these efforts to promote Maldives by Maldivians living abroad especially the diplomatic missions of Maldives. We definitely have a diversified approach to reach markets that encompass all kinds of travellers” said Thoyyib Mohamed.

Maldives to be featured at the OTR Southeast Asia Roadshow 2019 Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators, MATATO is set to take part in the OTR South East Asia Roadshow 2019 scheduled to take place in four major Asian metropolises - Singapore, Manila, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur – from 30th September to 4th October 2019.

OTR provides international destinations a platform to collectively market their countries and travel destinations offering to travel trade in an amalgam. Belgium, Greece, UK, France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Iceland, Switzerland, Turkey, Portugal, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Chez Republic, Russia, Antwerp, Flanders, Mauritius, Sri Outbound Travel Roadshows (OTR) offers Lanka, Brussels are some of the previous networking opportunity in a professionally participants. organized buyer-seller meet with thousands of buyers participating in the This is the third consecutive year that event. It is the perfect opportunity to gain MATATO is taking part in OTR Southeast an understanding and entree into travel Asia Roadshow, and the third Roadshow markets of potential and growing numbers. to be hosted with Sphere Travelmedia & The showcase will take part in each of the Exhibition in 2019. cities in the format of a cocktail evening and a full day workshop. The evening Registration for OTR Southeast Asia session is an informal gathering and will Roadshow 2019 is open through 15th give all participants the opportunity to August 2019. MATATO members and also interact with top buyers in the showcasing non-members are invited to take part in destinations, handpicked and selected this event. by the organizers, Sphere Travelmedia & Exhibition.

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LATEST NEWS

Ooredoo Celebrating 14 years in Maldives

Ooredoo launched their mobile telecommunications services in the Maldives on 1st August 2005 as Wataniya Telecom Maldives Private Limited. They are part of the international telecommunications company Ooredoo, which operates in 10 countries across the Middle East, North Africa and Southeast Asia, serving over 119 million consumers and businesses, delivering the leading data experience through a broad range of content and services via its advanced, data-centric mobile and fixed networks.

Ooredoo became a public limited company on 6th October 2016 and thereby re-registered as Ooredoo Maldives Public Limited Company. Their majority shareholder is Wataniya International FZ-LLC holding 90.5% of the issued shares of the Company with the remaining 9.5% of the shares are held by the public.

and 22.7% in revenue from 2013 to 2018.

Since their establishment in the Maldives, they have made strong investments that have completely transformed the telecommunication industry of the nation, through advanced technologies and innovative products and solutions that enable new and exciting opportunities for development.

Human growth is at the heart of everything they do. As a part of the Ooredoo Group, they are guided by the shared vision of enriching people’s lives. As an enabler of digital, Ooredoo Team is determined to remain at the helm of the digital transformation in the Maldives, supporting consumers and businesses to reach their full potential.

Ooredoo Maldives were the first operator to launch the first ever and fastest 3G and 4G Networks in the Maldives, and they continued this trend Ooredoo Maldives cater by recently demonstrating to a subscriber base of the highest ever seen speeds over 440,000 customers in in the country through 5G. the Maldives ranging from They remain committed individuals, small to medium to enriching the lives of businesses, large corporates Maldivians by connecting and state institutions and them with the latest continue to achieve robust advancements in digital. compound annual growth rates of 12.4% in subscribers

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Herb crusted lamb rack

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Ingredients • • • • • • • • • • • •

200ml Chicken broth 2 tablespoon Butter 100 gms Uncooked couscous 2 tbs Grated parmesan cheese 100 gms Fresh bread crumbs 1 tbs Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley 1 tbs Chopped fresh mint 1 tbs Minced fresh rosemary Salt 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper 3 1/2 tablespoons Olive oil 3 frenched racks of lamb (8 ribs and 1 1/2 lb each rack), trimmed of all but a thin layer of fat, then brought to room temperature • 2 tablespoons dijon mustard 50ml Lamb jus 100 gms Mix vegetables blanched 2 tbs Butter for sauted vegetable

Method Put oven rack in middle position and preheat to 400° F. Season lamb with salt and pepper. Heat remaining tablespoon of oil in a large heavy skillet over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then brown lamb 1 rack at a time, turning once, about 4 minutes per rack. Transfer to a roasting pan, arranging fatty sides up. Spread fatty sides of each rack with 2 teaspoons mustard. Divide bread crumb mixture into 3 portions and pat each portion over mustard coating on each rack, gently pressing to adhere. Roast the lamb at 130° f for 20 to 25 minutes. Mount the plate as shown on the picture with sauted vegetables and lamb jus and serve with creamy couscous.

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VOL 37 | August 2019 | www.theislandchief.com EVENTS & AWARDS

South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2019 Partners Unveiled SATA was launched in 2016 with the intention to provide brands across the region’s travel and hospitality industry with a credible platform to be recognized for their outstanding achievements. As the first brand to celebrate a wide and encompassing spectrum of hospitality and travel in the South Asian region, SATA has received immense support from regional hospitality brands and organizations.

The first SATA Gala ceremony was hosted at the Mount Lavinia Hotel in 2016, with subsequent SATA Gala’s held at Equator Village Maldives in 2017 and The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Mumbai in 2018. Now in its fourth year, SATA 2019 has received over 500 nominations from a plethora of segments within the industry.

The 2019 edition of SATA evaluations conducted The Life.lk by their expert panel of judges began in Maldives UAG Marketing during June and continued to major cities in the Sole Asia.com region including Colombo, Bangalore, New Delhi, One Maldives Kathmandu, and concluded in Dhaka, Bangladesh on 19th July 2019.

Digital Media Partner of SATA: Ad Solutions Digital Communications Pvt Ltd The winners will be announced at the 4th Annual South Asian Travel Awards Gala event scheduled in Photography Partner: September 2019.

Digital Studio Endorsement Partners: 1. Association of Professionals in Tourism (APT) 2. Association of Travel Agents (ATA) 3. Association of Tourism Trade Organizations (ATTOI) 4. Confederation of Accredited Tour Operators (CATO) 5. Hotel and Restaurant Association of Bhutan (HRAB) 6. Kerala Hotel General Managers Club (KHGMC) 7. National Boating Association of Maldives (NBAM) 8. Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour SATA Team have therefore chosen to align their Operators (MATATO) brand with the following partners, as unveiled at 9. Maldives Marketing & PR Corporation (MMPRC) the Partners Signing Ceremony held at Ozo Colombo. 10. Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators Agreements were signed by the President of SATA Mr. (SLAITO) Ismail Hameed, Vice President SATA, Sri Lanka 11. The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL) Mr. Sameer Yoonus and SATA Director of 12. Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) Communications, Mr. Mohamed Shamin with the key 13. Bangladesh International Hotel Association partners.

(BIHA) 14. Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Platinum Partner: Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL) Velana International Airport, Maldives 15. COLOMBO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (CCC) 16. The Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) The Official Host: Amari Galle, Sri Lanka Hospitality Partners: 1. Maldives: Mookai Hotel, Male’ Gold Partner: 2. Sri Lanka: Ramada Colombo The Hawks Pvt Ltd 3. India: The Chancery Pavilion, Bangalore 4. Nepal Maya Manor Hotel, Kathmadu Insurance Partner: 5. Bhutan: Zhiwa Ling Heritage Dhivehi Insurance Company Pvt Ltd 6. Bangladesh: Silver Partners: Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden, Dhaka With participants from six destinations (India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal and Maldives) and endorsements from more than 17 Travel Industry Organizations and National Tourism Bodies, SATA has grown immeasurably over the past four years.

After the recent setbacks suffered by the industry due to the cowardly and deplorable Easter Sunday attacks, SATA team decided to have the final Gala event in Sri Lanka this September as a mark of solidarity and support.

Media Partners: 1. Asian Geographic 2. Asian Traveller 3. Tourism Mail 4. Asian Divers 5. Travel World Online 6. Maldives Insider 7. The islandchief 8. Floating Asia 9. One Online 10. Maldives Business Review 11. Yambhu Times 12. Art TV 13. Kiss FM SATA Team is proud to unveil the key partners of 2019 and looking forward to host a grand gala celebration awarding the Winners of the prestigious South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) for the leading hospitality brands across Maldives, Sri Lanka, India, Nepal Bhutan and Bangladesh. The Grand Gala will be hosted at Amari Galle on 19th and 20th September 2019 in Sri lanka.

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VOL 37 | August 2019 | www.theislandchief.com EVENTS & AWARDS

The President and First Lady attend the opening ceremony for the 10th Indian Ocean Island Games This multi-sports event is held every four years and invites sportsmen and sportswomen from Indian Ocean islands to compete for medals across 14 different sports disciplines.

The inaugural edition of the IOIG, of which the Maldives is a founding member, was held in 1979. The objectives of the Games are to contribute to regional cooperation through sport, and to build friendship and mutual understanding between the island-nations of the Indian Ocean, continuing the best traditions of sporting diplomacy.

The Maldives won its first international medal in an international sporting event at the first ever IOIG, 40 years ago. Many of our athletes representing multiple sporting fields will be competing for similar successes this year.

As part of the ongoing visit to the Republic of Mauritius on the invitation of the Mauritian Government, His Excellency, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and First Lady Fazna Ahmed have attended the opening ceremony of the 10th Indian Ocean Island Games, held this evening at Port Louis, Mauritius.

The Maldives is seeking to host the 11th edition of the IOIG due to be held in 2023. The results of the voting for the next host will be announced at the closing ceremony of the current games.

The President and First Lady will attend several of the games to be held in the upcoming days, to offer encouragement and support to our wonderful athletes.

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Frankly Speaking Considering the relatively few Maldivian Chefs in the hospitality industry, do you think there are enough opportunities available for locals to excel in this profession?

Jude Fernando Executive Chef Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru

De Ambrosis Giovanni Corporate / Development Chef Cocoon / You & Me by Cocoon

Lalith Gunasekare Corporate Chef - General Manager Aitkenspence Hotels – Maldives Sector

Mohamed Abdulla Pastry Sous Chef Dusit Thani Maldives

Amila Sathsara Silva Executive Chef Heritance Aarah

Celebrating the Best of South Asian Hospitality

Official Host

Platinum Partner

Gold Partner

Official Insurance Partner

lanka innovation forum for entrepreneurship

CHP #4, 5th Floor, Orchid Magu, Male', Maldives

Silver Partners

Digital Advertising Partner

Photography Partner Endorsed By

+960 330 6606 secretariat@satravelawards.com www.southasiantravelawards.com Hospitality Partners

Media Partners