Month: October 2024

This November, Nova Maldives invites fans of Japanese cuisine to experience an exceptional dining adventure at Mizu, the resort’s intimate overwater teppanyaki restaurant. Nestled against the serene backdrop of the South Ari Atoll’s shimmering lagoons, guests will find themselves drawn into a refined dining experience, meticulously crafted by renowned Japanese chef Kazuki Arai.

From November 18th to 22nd, Mizu will transform as Chef Arai showcases exclusive set menus, each plate arriving with precision, paired perfectly with premium sake. The sound of soft sizzling fills the air, and guests will have the chance to watch as the chef works his magic at the grill. Beyond the meals, there’s an invitation to take part in a rare opportunity—bespoke cooking classes, led by Chef Arai himself, where participants will find their hands moving to mimic his expert techniques in the tranquil ambiance of Nova. Every plate, every movement in the kitchen promises to create an atmosphere where couples reconnect, surrounded by the endless turquoise expanse.

Chef Arai, recently embarking on a venture centered on seasonal ingredients from Gunma Prefecture, brings his passion for local flavors to life. His experience is woven into every dish, with the scent of freshly cooked bento boxes that celebrate the bond between farmers and diners. His commitment to sustainability breathes through each creation, presenting a journey that honors food, community, and Japanese culinary heritage.

As evening settles in, Mizu comes alive under the fading sunlight. The first bite tells a story—one of tradition, balance, and harmony, reflected in the way the freshest local ingredients meld together. Every sip of sake enhances the flavors, while the rhythmic rolling of waves adds a natural cadence to the evening.

The event’s menu, a testament to Japan’s seafood-rich cuisine, offers not just a meal, but an immersion into the art of Japanese cooking. Guests, with sleeves rolled and aprons tied, lean in as Chef Arai guides them through the delicate steps of his craft, showing them how to bring home world-class recipes and techniques.

Seating is limited, ensuring that each guest receives attentive care. Eyes meet across tables, hands brushing over shared plates as they relish this personalized, leisurely dining experience, one filled with intimate moments and unforgettable flavors.

Before the Mizu event, Nova Maldives will host another exquisite affair in collaboration with Maison Taittinger. Here, an elegant five-course dinner awaits, each course paired with the finest Taittinger Champagne vintages. As the first glass of Taittinger Brut Réserve is lifted, the sky glows with the setting sun, painting a golden hue over shellfish risotto and locally sourced fish. Each sip, each bite, becomes a part of the Maldivian sunset, wrapping the night in warmth and splendor.

Heritance Aarah Maldives, a premium all-inclusive resort in the Raa Atoll, has been honored as the Most Outstanding Culinary Organisation at the 2024 Food and Hospitality Asia Maldives Global Culinary Challenge and Exhibition (FHAM). This marks the resort’s second time earning this prestigious title. Competing against 65 other resorts, Heritance Aarah distinguished itself by securing 39 awards, including 14 Gold Awards and 10 special awards.

Among the notable recognitions, the resort excelled in categories such as Best Chef, Best Pastry Chef, Most Outstanding Artist, Plated Appetisers Winner, Plated Three-Course Meal Winner, and Creative Rice Dish Winner.

Renowned for its exceptional culinary offerings, Heritance Aarah provides guests with a diverse dining experience across seven unique restaurants and five lively bars. Visitors can savor world-class buffets and meticulously crafted meals prepared by award-winning chefs and Culinary Olympians, ensuring every meal is an unforgettable part of their Maldivian experience.

Each of the seven dining venues offers a distinct culinary journey. Ranba serves a variety of Asian and international dishes, while Ralu specializes in French and Italian cuisine. Ginifati focuses on fresh seafood and expertly grilled dishes, Baani presents innovative fusion cuisine, and Hathaa offers urban street food inspired by Tokyo. Ambula features contemporary Sri Lankan and Maldivian flavors, with an extensive vegan menu. The resort’s five bars offer a range of creative cocktails and premium spirits, with Bandhi Bar, the main pool bar, providing a laid-back atmosphere with shisha and pizza. Sky Bar offers breathtaking sunset views alongside classic and signature cocktails, while Falhu specializes in aged spirits and biodynamic wines. Ralu Lounge Bar boasts the region’s largest selection of rum and tiki cocktails.

Heritance Aarah also offers a premium selection of over 80 top-shelf spirits, 150 beverages, and a signature cocktail menu featuring more than 30 unique creations, ensuring a rich and varied dining experience.

Stasshani Jayawardena, Joint Deputy Chairperson and Joint Managing Director of Aitken Spence Hotel Holdings PLC, expressed her congratulations, stating, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the winners at FHAM 2024. Their outstanding achievements inspire us all. We invite guests to embark on a unique culinary journey in our peaceful barefoot paradise, where tradition seamlessly blends with innovation

After a period of decreased visits from Indian celebrities, the Maldives is once again experiencing a rise in high-profile visitors from the Indian entertainment industry. Prominent Bollywood stars and TV personalities are choosing the Maldives as their preferred holiday destination, with many celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions in the tropical paradise.

Bollywood celebrities, with their massive social media followings, play a significant role in promoting the Maldives’ tourism industry. India has always been a key market for the Maldives, and the renewed interest from Indian stars is a positive development for the sector.

Earlier this year, there was a noticeable decline in visits from Indian celebrities following a social media campaign in India calling for a boycott of the Maldives, sparked by political tensions between the two countries. The movement encouraged Indians to consider alternative destinations, such as Lakshadweep, for their vacations.

However, the situation has improved, with more Indian film stars returning to the Maldives in recent months, indicating a shift in sentiment and improved relations between the two nations.

India has also held roadshows in major cities to promote Maldivian tourism, further strengthening ties. Maldivian Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal emphasized the importance of the Indian market and highlighted ongoing efforts to attract more Indian tourists.

The return of Indian celebrities to the Maldives is expected to boost the tourism sector, with India ranked as the sixth-largest source of tourists, contributing nearly 90,000 visitors by the end of September.

The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) is showcasing the Maldives at the TTG Travel Experience 2024 in Rimini, Italy, from October 9-11. Collaborating with 64 representatives from 25 companies, MMPRC is promoting the Maldives as a top travel destination for the Italian market.

As Italy’s leading travel trade event, TTG Travel Experience brings together international operators and key industry players such as tourism boards, airlines, travel agents, and accommodation providers. Given Italy’s longstanding significance as a major source market for the Maldives, MMPRC’s presence is vital in keeping the Maldives at the forefront of Italian travelers’ minds. At the Maldives stand, MMPRC is engaging with stakeholders, including travel agents, tour operators, and media, to boost awareness of the destination. This platform also allows industry partners to share updates on their properties and services.

Italy continues to be one of the Maldives’ top markets, contributing 106,946 arrivals by October 1, 2024. MMPRC’s marketing efforts include media and influencer familiarization trips, as well as digital campaigns, all aimed at maintaining the Maldives as a favored destination. Future plans include the “Discover Maldives Webinar Series: Italy Edition” and other promotional activities.

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability by signing the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism. This aligns the resort with global initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and promote eco-friendly tourism practices, reflecting its dedication to responsible operations.

The Glasgow Declaration brings together the travel and tourism sector to accelerate climate action through common pathways. By joining, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi has pledged to reduce carbon emissions by at least 50% over the next decade and achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050. This is part of the resort’s broader sustainability strategy under the Sun Siyam Cares program, which focuses on environmental conservation, community support, and protecting the natural beauty of the Maldives.

As a signatory, the resort commits to adhering to scientific recommendations to prevent global temperatures from rising more than 1.5°C by 2100. This includes developing or updating climate action plans within 12 months, following the Declaration’s five pathways—Measure, Decarbonise, Regenerate, Collaborate, and Finance—and publicly reporting on progress annually.

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi’s key commitments include:

• Reducing emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieving Net Zero by 2050.
• Developing climate action plans aligned with the Declaration’s five pathways.
• Ensuring transparency through annual reporting on progress.
• Collaborating with industry peers to share solutions and best practices.

The Glasgow Declaration combines the latest research and global expertise to promote climate action, emphasizing that sustainable tourism recovery will be key to achieving Net Zero by 2050. This shift will redefine success by considering ecosystem regeneration, biodiversity, and community well-being.

The Maldives, a tropical paradise known for its turquoise waters and vibrant marine life, offers endless vacation possibilities. If you’re considering a trip, let me guide you through some of the best Maldives packages available.

1. Dhiffushi Island Adventure: Dhiffushi is the perfect blend of island relaxation and adventure. This package includes dolphin watching, snorkeling with tropical fish, and day trips to sandbanks. Families and couples alike can enjoy a range of activities that balance relaxation and exploration. Dhiffushi offers guesthouses with traditional Maldivian charm and a chance to immerse yourself in local culture.

2. Maafushi Island Explorer: Maafushi is renowned for its bustling local vibe and variety of water sports. A stay here will include options for scuba diving, a sunset dolphin cruise, or island hopping adventures. If you are after a more lively experience, Maafushi has a range of entertainment options, making it ideal for groups of friends or solo travelers who want a social experience.

3. Thulusdhoo Surf and Chill: Thulusdhoo is a well-known haven for surfers, offering some of the best surf breaks in the Maldives. Beyond surfing, you can explore the vibrant marine life through guided snorkeling excursions, try paddleboarding, or relax on secluded sandbanks. This package is perfect for those who love a mix of adrenaline and serenity.

Choosing the perfect island getaway depends on your personal preferences—whether it’s cultural immersion, a romantic escape, or an adventure-filled holiday. Each package offers a unique experience, ensuring there is something for everyone in the Maldives.

Ready to find your ideal Maldives adventure? Explore our Ocean Atolls packages for more details.