SANGU April 2021. Edition IV Island News
A HALO OF DISCOVERIES
CONTENTS 1. General Manager’s Message 2. A Halo of Discoveries 3. Step into a Magical Island Realm 4. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands Partners with Bamford to Bring an Exclusive Wellness Experience to the Destination 5. Healing Inspired by the Earth’s Energy 6. Discover, Savour, Enjoy and Socialise 7. Connect with us
GENERAL MANAGER’S MESSAGE
“ Welcome to the fourth edition of Sangu Magazine! We are eagerly counting down days to the exciting opening of the first Ritz-Carlton resort in the Maldives. This defining moment marks a milestone for the brand and the destination: introducing the first luxury integrated resort showcasing a halo of discoveries. The Fari Islands is set to redefine the Maldives experience. The destination is no longer just for a honeymoon or underwater exploration but a fashionable destination for all kinds of travellers, from artists to conservationists.
The magnificently designed Ritz-Carlton Spa, fantasy-filled Ritz Kids and an array of lavish facilities and meaningful experiences refined by the Ritz-Carlton tradition will add an appeal to even the most sought-after traveller. It has definitely been a journey. On behalf of our Ladies and Gentlemen, we thank you for being part of our journey and look forward to welcoming you soon to embrace the circle of island life.
Mark Hehir, General Manager
”
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A HALO OF DISCOVERIES Debuting this summer, the Fari Islands, the first luxury integrated resort archipelago, is set to redefine the destination’s luxury scene and culture, bringing a refreshing mix of art, music, fashion and culture. The three islands and the surrounding seascapes offer a plethora of activities for all generations, curated around wellness, culture, adventure, sustainability and island discovery. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives alone features an exquisite collection of facilities, such as seven restaurants and bars, a signature Ritz-Carlton Spa, a futuristic Ritz Kids, diving and watersports, a-state-of-the-art fitness centre with steam and sauna, petanque, tennis courts, a one-stop photo studio and many more, enriched by inspiring programming. Rise to the first rays to practice flow yoga under a 30-ft banyan tree at the Spiral Garden, trade recipes at the Chef’s table over cooking classes or find the perfect beat in Bodu Beru, drumming lessons, the island offers a different activity every hour of the day. Sea exploration takes an adventurous turn with the Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program, complemented by the trendiest watersports and personalized underwater sessions provided by the Dive Butler International, tempting guests to take an adventure otherwise unlived.
A year-round calendar of seasonal and expert-led masterclasses hosted by celebrity chefs, international DJs, tennis pros and wellness practitioners is another reason to plan your stay. And simple pleasures are elevated with little touches, such as breakfasts are over the sparkling water, workouts are in the lagoon and family movie nights are set under the stars. A multitude of venues and tailor-made itineraries are available for guests celebrating special occasions, whether black tie events with fireworks or intimate dinners. The beauty of the Maldives is worth treasuring; capture your holiday moments with Shutterfish, the resort’s photo studio, experts in high-end photography from underwater to night photography, and their Genius Bar service teaches you to master your own camera in no time. Guests seeking a transition from a serene to a more social atmosphere can escape to the Fari Marina, an eight-minute Dhoni, a traditional boat away from the resort. Sample signature bao buns filled with exotic ingredients from a festive trailer truck on the beach, stroll through the mesmerizing Skyspace, James Turell’s magnificent art installation, or shop for the latest designer collection at the Rake. This fashionable destination brings a fresh cosmopolitan flair to the Maldives.
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STEP INTO A MAGICAL ISLAND REALM Renowned for creating inspiring moments for young guests, The Ritz-Carlton brand’s hallmark programme, the Ritz Kids, offers a collection of exciting amenities, inspiring and engaging experiences and privileges. The Ritz Kids at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives resembles a utopian realm from a fantasy storybook, tucked in the tropical foliage taking the iconic-round shape of the resort’s overall architecture. Designed with a futuristic flair, young guests can play in the dedicated indoor or outdoor areas, unwind in the napping pods, enjoy video games and movies or have the time of their life sliding down the slide to the pool. The kids club is located only at a walking distance from the Beach Shack, allowing parents to indulge in lazy lunches and sip on vintage rosé on the sun-soaked beach all afternoon long at ease. The Ritz Kids programme presents enriching activities designed for children from 4 to 12 years old focused on the four pillars: land, water, environmental responsibility and culture, a part of Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program to educate and inspire the future generation. Children can embark on island treasure hunts, learn about the faraway galaxies, swim in the beautiful coral gardens with playful marine creatures, or master the art of Bodu Beru with the Naturalists, environmentalist. While family activities,
such as pizza making classes at the Chef’s table in La Locanda or fireside stories by Moodhu Edhuru, sea guru, over s’mores surely make up for the lost family time. Children can dine around the island in any of the seven restaurants. The Ritz Kids menu features nutritious yet delicious options. The chefs are delighted to personalize dishes based on preferences and dietary requirements that even the most selective eaters will find their pick. Along with the array of signature Ritz Kids amenities, the resort offers a collect-worthy selection of amenities that bring the island elements to life, such as the lion mascot toy takes the shape of the Maldivian lionfish. Easter and Festive holidays add an extra layer of fun with themed events and entertainment that leave even the most well-travelled young guest counting down days to return.
Click on the icon to listen to our latest podcast on bringing the Ritz Kids to the Maldives with Juan Serrano, Executive Assistant Manager - Rooms, sharing a glimpse of the adventure and magic that await.
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THE RITZ-CARLTON MALDIVES, FARI ISLANDS PARTNERS WITH BAMFORD TO BRING AN EXCLUSIVE WELLNESS EXPERIENCE TO THE DESTINATION. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives partners with Bamford to offer a carefully curated botanical experience in the Indian Ocean. Made in England, the Bamford Bath & Body collection is built on the belief that what we put on our body is as important as what we put into it. The brand is a pioneer of sustainable and holistic living, certified to the highest standard by the Soil Association. All ingredients are organic, ethically sourced, and free from GMO, parabens, SLS, and mineral oils.
Commenting on Bamford’s debut to The Ritz-Carlton brand and the Maldives, Lady Carol Bamford stated,
“
We are honoured to be partnering with such a prestigious and luxurious hospitality brand as The Ritz-Carlton. Everything we do at Bamford stems from the belief to live more consciously, slow our pace and be mindful of our footprint, which aligns perfectly with The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands’ commitment to sustainability. Through our treatments, we look forward to nurturing the well-being of resort guests in a holistic way, providing a curated experience in the most picturesque of settings that leaves them feeling cared for and reconnected to themselves.
”
The organic and sustainably focused brand offers a like-minded approach to protecting nature, its drive for more conscious living, and the highest quality of product with therapies that are mindful of our connection to the earth and the natural world.
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HEALING INSPIRED BY THE EARTH’S ENERGY Shaped by the ocean forces, wind and waves, designing The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, Kerry Hill Architects embraced the duality of the open ocean and calm lagoon, daytime shade and the expansive night sky of the Maldives. Amongst the architectural masterpieces, standing out magnificent and timeless is the ring-shaped Ritz-Carlton Spa. Masterly perched over the sparkling lagoon, the earthly element of water and the cardinal directions of the treatment rooms exude powerful energy. Featuring nine spa treatments rooms aligned with the ancient Chinese philosophy yin and yang energies, The Ritz-Carlton Spa adds to its collection an inimitable healing escape in the world’s most exclusive destinations. The spa features a state-of-the-art “Chen-Kan Suite” with its own relaxation lounge, a salon with hair and nail service and a boutique carrying renowned skincare brands. The treatments curated by Bamford with their botanical and ethically produced skincare amenities elevate the holistic connection of the body, mind and soul to the earth.
Drawing from the destination’s influences and heritage, incorporated with the renowned Bamford techniques, the menu includes a fusion of therapeutic and beauty treatments with organic island ingredients, balanced with traditional and bespoke bodyworks. Guests will feel completely rejuvenated with the Bamford Signature Journey, a combination of Japanese Shiatsu, Swedish and Chakra balancing treatment finished with relaxing breathwork using Maldivian seashells and a fragrant bath. The Maldivian Signature Rejuvenation treatment with island-har vested coconut oil, heated sand poultice treatment and a coconut milk bath, a luxurious massage honouring the healing traditions of the archipelago. The menu also includes Bamboo massage, Hot and Cold Jade Stone treatment, Thai massage and various other treatments. Visiting masters and practitioners from the far corners of the world will bring seasonal and expert healing therapies throughout the year, presenting guests with a unique spa destination.
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DISCOVER
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands welcomes • 100 villas, from one to three bedroom accommodations you to embrace island life and indulge in an azure lagoon brightened by crisp white beaches. A distinguished ‘Aris Meeha’, personal host • 24 hours ‘Aris Meeha’, butler service for every villa refined by the elegant Ritz-Carlton service tailors a journey of meaningful moments. • 7 restaurants and bars, including a Michelin-Star Sounds of the drums beat on sun setting, collaboration transitioning from a day full of discoveries into an evening of indulgence and reflection, • Signature Ritz Kids program giving the inspiration to do it all over again. • Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program
LOCATION The resort is reachable by a 45-minute scenic journey by a luxury speedboat or a 10-minute by a seaplane from Velana International Airport.
NORTH MALÉ ATOLL, MALÉ 20013 MALDIVES MALDIVES.RESERVATIONS@RITZCARLTON.COM ritzcarltonmaldives
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• The Ritz-Carlton Spa, offering 9 treatment rooms and a Spa suite, with lavish Bamford amenities
The 13.5-hectare resort presents 100 elegantly-designed villas by Kerry Hill Architects, nestled overwater or on the beach are inspired by the ocean forces, wind and waves. Indoor and outdoor spaces, each villa offers a private pool, sundeck, ensuite bathroom and a lavish collection of personalized amenities.
VILLAS
VILLA CATEGORIES
SIZE (SQM/SQF)
NO. OF VILLAS
Ocean Pool Villa
150 / 1.620
38
Lagoon Pool Villa
150 / 1.620
18
Beach Pool Villa
155 / 1.670
29
Two Bedroom Water Pool Villa
350 / 3.770
5
Two Bedroom Beach Pool Villa
400 / 4.310
9
1.500 / 16.150
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The Ritz-Carlton Estate
RESORT FLOORPLAN
NORTH MALÉ ATOLL, MALÉ 20013 MALDIVES MALDIVES.RESERVATIONS@RITZCARLTON.COM ritzcarltonmaldives
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A vibrant culinary scene unfolds seven restaurants and two bars located on a dedicated Culinary Island, Grand Sunset Beach or at the Fari Marina. LA LOCANDA – known as the island’s living room bringing refreshing Southern Italian flavours with indoor and outdoor spaces extended to the sparkling lagoon of the resort in a laid-back atmosphere.
SAVOUR
SUMMER PAVILION – this Michelin-starred collaboration offers tapas-style authentic Cantonese cuisine in a lantern-inspired dining pavilion perched over the velvety lagoon. IWAU – showcases Japanese specialities, including a lively teppanyaki dining experience under the stars. EAU BAR – balances wellness with indulgence, offering a sustainable gastronomical experience in an elegant, relaxed setting. At Eau Bar, sunset is celebrated each evening with a captivating ritual. BEACH SHACK – the communal pulse of the island bringing families and friends together over sharing plates of Mediterranean fare and vintage rosé wine to sip all day while dancing to the tunes of live DJ with the Indian Ocean as the backdrop. ARABESQUE – set within a colourful Bedouin tent-inspired restaurant in Fari Marina, Arabesque takes guests on a journey from Lebanon to North India. TUM TUM – a festive food trailer located in Fari Marina offering scrumptious Asian street food, tempting guests a pit stop amid shopping, arts and culture. DINE BY DESIGN – whether set on a private sandbank, a lantern-filled beach or a private yacht, the resort offers exquisite venues, specially curated menu to celebrate life’s most meaningful moments.
NORTH MALÉ ATOLL, MALÉ 20013 MALDIVES MALDIVES.RESERVATIONS@RITZCARLTON.COM ritzcarltonmaldives
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THE RITZ-CARLTON SPA A ring-shaped sanctuary nestled over the turquoise lagoon, The Ritz-Carlton Spa offers nine spa treatment rooms including a spa suite with its own relaxation lounge, a salon and a boutique. Cardinal directions of each treatment room exude powerful energy complemented with healing massages and organic body and skincare collection by Bamford, offering guests a luxurious wellness experience. RECREATION AND WATERSPORTS
ENJOY
A state-of-the-art fitness centre with personal training, a yoga studio with daily classes including aerial yoga and post-workout relaxation sauna and steam separated for ladies and gentlemen. Scuba diving, watersports adventures including kayak, jet skis and flyboarding. A host of island sports including tennis, petanque, beach volley and soccer. A photography studio. JEAN-MICHEL COUSTEAU’S AMBASSADORS OF THE ENVIRONMENT Discover the rare flora and fauna of the island, uncover the underwater secrets and search for far-off planets and stars in the clear Maldives skies with Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program. A host of entertaining and engaging activities offer designed for adults and children alike take guests on a journey of discovery like no other. A SIGNATURE RITZ KIDS PROGRAM The Ritz Kids Club boasts futuristic indoor-outdoor space with playgrounds, napping pods, an area for video games and movies, and a pool with slides and jets. The program is designed for ages 4 to 12, with the island’s four pillars—land, water, environmental responsibility and culture—to create a schedule of daily activities including bike rides, pottery lessons, cooking classes and more.
NORTH MALÉ ATOLL, MALÉ 20013 MALDIVES MALDIVES.RESERVATIONS@RITZCARLTON.COM ritzcarltonmaldives
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FARI MARINA
SOCIALISE
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives is located on the Fari Islands, an archipelago featuring three luxury private resorts and a marina. The Marina is built around with a vibrant Fari Beach Club, high-end boutiques, art studio, Fari Lagoon Coral Adoption & Marine Biology Center and a selection of upscale restaurants. The dining highlights include:
FARINE – an island patisserie, with traditional home-made butter croissants, signature bread, pastries and sandwiches. KŌEN – teppanyaki, specializing in Japanese premium wagyu beef from Akita prefecture. BRASA – premium meat and South American marinade served in a countertop, sharing-table concept dining setting. GO GO BURGER – home-made gourmet burgers served from a truck. TUK TUK GELATO – an ice-cream truck, offering home-made cold treats. ARABESQUE – flavours from Lebanon to North India comes alive in Bedouin tentstyle restaurant. TUM TUM – a festive food trailer, offering Asian street food. With around-the-clock boat transfers at our courtesy between The Ritz-Carlton Maldives and Fari Marina, guests are spoilt with an array of meaningful experiences. The Fari Marina also features berthing ports to anchor private yachts, presenting a stylish-new destination for yachters. The Fari Archipelago redefines the Maldivian experience bringing a refreshing scene of art, music, culture and shopping, offering guests a balance of cosmopolitan and private island life.
NORTH MALÉ ATOLL, MALÉ 20013 MALDIVES MALDIVES.RESERVATIONS@RITZCARLTON.COM ritzcarltonmaldives
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CONNECT WITH US www.ritzcarlton.com/Maldives
#RCMemories #EmbraceIslandLife
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