Amari heads for the Maldives

Thai residential property developer, Amari Estates Company, has won the lease management contract for the four star Herathera Island Resort in the south Maldives, a twenty minute speedboat ride from Gan International Airport.

Refurbishing and rebranding the resort will cost over 100 million baht (USD3.31 million) and an official agreement will reportedly be signed on January 15th 2011.

The Herathera Island Resort forms part of Amari Estates’ expansion plans in Asia. Future projects include the development of a six hundred million baht (US$19.8 million) three star, two hundred room hotel, under the Ozo brand name, in Koh Samui, Thailand, set for completion in 2012.

This year, Amari Estates will invest in three other properties in Thailand with a total project value of almost 5 billion baht (US$166 million); Oriental Residence in Bangkok, Amari Residences Hua Hin and Amari Hua Hin.

Source: http://www.property-report.com

Carlson announces second Radisson property in the Maldives

Carlson, a privately held, global hospitality and travel company, announced the signing of a second Radisson property in the Maldives.

The USD 91 million, 281-villa resort, owned by Three K International Private Limited, is expected to open in the third quarter of 2012 on the island of Naagoshi.

The Radisson Plaza Resort Maldives, Naagoshi will feature 182 land and 99 overwater, contemporary villas designed by Hassell, the award-winning, multidisciplinary firm which has been appointed architectural, interior and landscape design consultants for the resort.

“The addition of this resort property fuels our Ambition 2015 growth strategy to expand Radisson as a vibrant, contemporary and engaging brand in key cities, resort and airport locations throughout Asia Pacific,” said Simon Barlow, president, Carlson Hotels, Asia Pacific.

“This spectacular resort is being created as a unique holiday sanctuary retreat for couples and families, through distinct facilities and design features catering to both markets,” said Xerxes Meher-Homji, executive vice president and chief development officer, Carlson Hotels, Asia Pacific.

“We are excited to be joining Carlson as the Radisson brand continues its strong momentum in the region, and are confident that the Radisson Plaza Resort Maldives, Naagoshi will be well received by leisure travelers from around the world,” said Sergey Komarav, chairman, Three K International Private Limited.

Hotel guests will enjoy a variety of dining options, including an overwater Pan Asian restaurant, an all-day dining restaurant, a poolside bar, and a seafood restaurant. The overwater seafood restaurant, discreetly located at the southwestern corner of the resort, will feature paths trailing out onto five private overwater dining pods for couples seeking a romantic dining experience.

Additional resort facilities will include a gym, a dedicated yoga work out space, a large spa with 16 treatment rooms, badminton and tennis courts, an outdoor swimming pool, a meeting and function room, a diving and water sports center, and butler stations.

The resort’s kid’s club concept of learning, exploring, nature and growth will be brought to life through extensive facilities comprising a children’s swimming pool, playground with a sandpit, a games room, a movie and a library corner, and a cooking station.

The Radisson Plaza Resort Maldives, Naagoshi is being constructed on Naagoshi Island, on the northern Hua Dhaalu Atoll and is 45 minutes by sea plane from the Male International Airport. Carlson has another hotel presently under construction in the Maldives, the 250-room Radisson Hotel Maldives Hulhumale scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2013.

Last October, Carlson announced plans to increase the number of Radisson hotels in Asia Pacific to over 100 hotels by 2015. The Radisson portfolio in Asia Pacific includes 11 other resorts in Australia (Gold Coast), China (Huizhou and Sanya), India (Alibaug, Goa and Mamallapuram), the South Pacific (Fiji and Tahiti) and Thailand (Hua Hin, Pattaya and Phuket).

Source: http://www.etravelblackboardasia.com

Viceroy offers first look at Maldives hotel

Viceroy is planning to open its resort in the Maldives next summer with innovative design from Yabu Pushelberg and marking the first hotel for Viceroy outside North America and the Caribbean.

The resort is in the Shaviyani Atoll an hour north of Male and will have just 61 villas but serviced by 215 staff, who will include general manager Uday Rao, who comes with many years experience with Four Seasons, including in Mumbai and the Maldives.

The group insisted its growth – so far in places such as Anguilla, Snowmass Colorado and Miami - would be in absolutely the “right places for the brand” rather following the “bandwagon” growth of some resort groups.

Michael Lorenz, Viceroy’s vice president of sales, said key “sexy cities” such as London, Paris and New York are also in the group’s sights.

Abu Dhabi (Sowwah Island) and Beverly Hills (currently L’Ermitage Beverly Hills) are in development under the Viceroy brand and there could be up to 35 hotels in 10 years time. “There’s no need for speed, just good solid growth,” said Lorenz.

He added: “We will build the brand for our customers and what they want, not for us. This involves everything from listening to guests, to specific travel advisory boards so we know what people look for.”

Lorenz said the Maldives property would have the “amenities of an 120-room property but on just a 60-key island”, including five dining options and an over-water spa. A resort highlight will be the “tree house” beachside lounge (pictured above).

“We offer modern luxury that gives an edge. We have gathered top people from leading companies and are offering what we feel is something different," said Lorenz.

Source: http://www.ttglive.com

ADAARAN Resorts inaugurates ADAARAN 'Prestige' Vadoo, Maldives

ADAARAN Resorts unveiled their latest 5 star property ADAARAN 'Prestige' Vadoo. The resort was inaugurated by the Honourable Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Dr. Ahmed Ali Sawad at a function held on 28th March 2009 at the resort. Chairman of Aitken Spence Deshamanya D H S Jayawardena, Deputy Chairman of Aitken Spence J M S Britto, Special Envoy of the President Ibrahim Hussain Zaki and several high ranking tourism industry officials in the Maldives, travel agents, local and international tour operators attended the gala event.

Situated within close proximity to the Male International Airport - a mere 15 minutes by speed boat, Vadoo features 50 brand new subliminally appointed villas including 6 Japanese concept rooms on the ocean that sets the standard for a new level in luxury.

Each villa comes with a personal butler, in-room spa therapy facilities, private dining area on deck, Jacuzzi, plunge pool, DVD player, home theatre system, espresso machine and many other facilities designed to cater to the discerning traveller.

With beautifully landscaped gardens, a majestic infinity swimming pool and intimately placed spa facilities, a simple barefoot existence takes precedence where soothing spa treatments entice the senses.

The fine dining experience with a varied international gourmet cuisine with a wide selection of wines, as well as an exclusive Japanese specialty restaurant. 4Contd. on ADAARAN Resorts own seven properties in the Maldives which include ADAARAN 'Select' Meedhupparu, ADAARAN 'Select' Hudhuran Fushi, ADAARAN 'Club' Rannalhi, ADAARAN 'Ayurveda Village' Meedhupparu, ADAARAN 'Prestige' Water Villas and ADAARAN 'Prestige' Ocean Villas.

Source: dailymirror.lk

Sri Lanka Aitken Spence opens new Maldivian resort

Sri Lanka's Aitken Spence group said it has opened its latest Maldivian luxury resort called Adaaran ‘Prestige’ Vadoo.

The resort, 15 minutes by speed boat from Male’ International Airport, has 50 villas including six Japanese concept rooms on the ocean, a company statement said.

The company said each villa comes with a personal butler, in-room spa therapy facilities, private dining area on deck, Jacuzzi, plunge pool, DVD player, home theatre system, and espresso machine.

Aitken Spence is the fourth largest hotel operator in the Maldives with seven properties under the Adaaran brand and also manages hotels in India and the Middle East.

The opening of the new resort comes at a time when tourist arrivals in the Maldives have fallen sharply because of the global recession.

Aitken Spence's overseas hotels have buoyed the group's bottom line in recent years as earnings from its Sri Lankan properties remained weak owing to the tourism slump caused by the ethnic war.

The group's hotel subsidiary Aitken Spence Hotels said net profit for the December 2008 quarter shot up almost 200 percent to 358 million rupees largely owing to the sale of its Bathala Island resort in the Maldives

Source: lankabusinessonline.com

A unique piece of paradise in the Maldives

All Maldivian islands are idyllic, so how do you decide which of the hundreds of resorts to choose from? The recently opened Iru Fushi Beach & Spa Resort offers something truly special for families and couples alike and here are just some reasons why it excels above the rest.

Size matters - many resort islands are rarely large enough to really escape and enjoy a stretch of derelict beach. However, Iru Fushi is unique in that the sprawling 52 acre island is encased by swathes of soft sand and it takes around 30 minutes to walk the whole parameter. So guests can enjoy a piece of paradise without hoards of people to share it with. What’s more, for those who enjoy exercise, approx. 3.5 km jog around the island at sunset with the ocean gently lapping the shoreline and a cool breeze lifting from the lagoon is the perfect way to end a day.

Food, glorious food – when spending a week or two on one island, it is important to pick a resort that supplies a good choice of dining options. If variety is the spice of life, then Iru Fushi offers a gastronomic feast with its five restaurants, each specialising in cuisine from around the globe, and additional intimate dining experiences. Whether for a traditional Maldivian red snapper at the beach fronted Islanders Grill or, for special occasions, a customised á la carte western menu in the over-water wine cellar, there is something to suit every taste bud.

Rest and relaxation - with the economy in crisis, many people are finding their stress levels are invariably increasing and sleep levels are seemingly decreasing which is why some need a little nurture in the art of nodding off and total relaxation. Totally unique to the Maldives, Iru Fushi has devised a Sweet Dreams programme that will ensure guests leave fully rested and revived. The programme incorporates a sleep spa with yoga classes and a sleep diary, relaxing spa treatments, a pillow menu, soothing herbal baths for bed as well as a Sleep-All-Night-Cap.

Diving Delights – Located in Noonu Atoll, which is a new atoll in the Maldives for tourism development, means that Iru Fushi is surrounded by unchartered waters teeming with neon-coloured life. Perfect for beginners and experienced divers wishing to explore the deep delights of the Indian Ocean, Iru Fushi also boasts a PADI Gold Palm five-star dive school with a plethora of diving packages.

Seven nights at Iru Fushi Beach & Spa Resort starts from US$ 1,240 per person. Valid from 20 April to 20 July, the price includes return seaplane transfers from Malé airport and accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis staying in a Jacuzzi Beach Villa.

Visit irufushi.com for more information and bookings.

Special Offer: Get two nights free when staying seven nights in either a Water Villa or Jacuzzi Water Villa on a bed and breakfast basis (guests only pay Government bed tax of US$ 8 per person, per night for the two complimentary nights). Valid from 20 April until 31 October, prices start from US$ 429 per room, per night for a Water Villa.

Source: easier.com

Sri Lanka Galle Face group to build resort on Maldive island

Sri Lanka's Galle Face Hotels Group plans to build a 100-room luxury resort hotel on an atoll in the Maldivian archipelago, a senior official said.

Lakshman Sirimanne, group director, corporate development of the Galle Face Hotel group, said construction work on the resort on Gaafu Atoll, south of the capital Male, is about to begin.

"We have obtained all necessary approvals and completed the surveys of the island," he said.

"We're now in the process of fencing the land and building the quarters required for construction workers."

He said it was not possible to immediately reveal the group's investment in the project.

The Galle Face Hotel group is also putting in place the necessary ancillaries such as desalination units and sewerage units, as well as backfilling the island and dredging for a small jetty.

The company hopes to complete construction of the 200-bed resort by end-December 2009 and get into operation early next year, Sirimanne said.

A new subsidiary company of the Galle Face Hotel group has been incorporated in the Maldive islands.

The new hotel is sited on an uninhabited island which also has a domestic airport.and airport buildings.

The new Maldivian president Mohamed Nasheed, during his recent visit to Sri Lanka, announced that the Galle Face Hotel group was embarking on the project and also made a request for the airport to be modernized.

The Galle Face group started on the project after winning the bid for the island when it was put up for bids by the Maldivian government, which is focusing on developing the Gaafu Atoll.

Gaafu Atoll (also named Huvadhoo Atoll) is touted by surfers as having some of the best waves in the Maldives. It is also known to be good for scuba diving, snorkeling and sailing.

It is among the outer atolls of the Maldives and promoted as a surfing attraction without crowds as they are further away and harder to get to than the North and South Male Atolls

Source: .lankabusinessonline.com

Centara’s First Hotel Outside Thailand to open in the Maldives

Centara Hotels & Resorts is to invest in and manage a new property in the Maldives, it will be the first property for Centara Hotels & Resorts outside of Thailand.

Scheduled to open in May 2009, Centara Grand Island Resort and Spa, located on South Ari Atoll, will deliver a Premium 4 star resort experience. The resort is relatively close to Male Airport with an air transfer time of just 25 minutes or transfer by speed boat in 85 minutes.

For diving enthusiasts the resort enjoys an excellent house reef complete with a sunken ship wreck and is within easy reach of the top dive spots in Ari Atoll.

Adults will enjoy premium levels of service with a variety of dining options, pools, recreational activities, sports and fitness options, bars and lounges with nightly entertainment, and Centara Hotels & Resorts very own 5 stars Spa experience - Spa Cenvaree. Children will benefit from the new Centara Hotels & Resorts Kids Club concept offering 2 venues - Kid Camp and E-zone for ages 4 to 9 and 10 to 17 respectively.

Guests will be able to choose from 7 categories of beach front and over water accommodation which will range from 76 sqm Beach Suites complete with separate living room, large terrace and indoor and outdoor showers, up to 146 sqm Luxury Beachfront Pool Villas which come complete with their own private pool and membership of the exclusive Island Club – which offers guests in selected categories of accommodation a “resort within a resort” experience specially designed for discerning travelers.

Based around the small pool, Island Club guests will be able to enjoy premium levels of attention and service including access to the exclusive Club Lounge with daily servings of complimentary meals, snacks and drinks including complimentary evening cocktails and canapés. The private pool features refreshing Spa Cenvaree mist sprays, complimentary mineral water, pre-lunch cold towel service, afternoon fruits and sun bed concierge service.

Mr.Gerd Steeb, President of Centara Hotels & Resorts, said, “This is our 14th property and we aim to grow to 25 properties within the year 2010. We signed the management agreement in July and we are very excited with this outstanding Resort. It is a completely newly built project entailing an investment of US$49 million (1.7 Billion baht) and our first outside of Thailand but with others to come.”

Source: www.asiatraveltips.com

Investment in new Maldives resorts falls

The Maldives Ministry of Tourism has cited a lack of interest by potential investors for the small number of bid proposals that were submitted for two proposed new resort islands.

Bidding closed on 3 September for resorts on the two islands of Haa Alif atoll Kelaa and Laamu atoll Gadhoo, with only two firms submitting bids for Kelaa, and none submitting bids for Gadhoo.

The ministry says that financing difficulties are the reason for the lack of proposals. With the rise of construction costs, investors of existing projects are going back to their funding sources for additional monies. It was also noted that none of the 64 resort properties currently under construction will be completed on schedule.

On top of the financing issue, there has also been a decline in tourist numbers, which were down by 6.6 per cent for July of this year, as compared with July of 2007. This is the largest drop that the Maldives has experienced since the months following the tsunami of 2004.

“There has been a decrease in the number of bid proposals,” noted the executive director of the Tourism Ministry, Mohamed Waheed. “Developers are saying it is difficult to get investments in this sector…All current projects are delayed.”

In the last two tenders received by the ministry, both submissions were for the development of Kelaa, but not for Gadhoo, even though three bid packets had been purchased.

Mahmoud Shaugee, the tourism minister who resigned his post in July, commented that the “lack of investor interest… [is] associated with the economy and number of projects under way.”

Source: www.asap.co.uk

Alila Hotels and Resorts sets new Eco-Luxe Standards in the Maldives

Alila Hotels and Resorts is pleased to announce its first sustainable tourism resort development in the Maldives - Alila Villas Hadahaa. Slated to open in 2009, it is the first resort in the Maldives to commit to the standards of Green Globe throughout its design, construction stages. It achieved the prestigious Green Globe 'Building Planning and Design Standard' Certified Status in August 2008.

"By joining the internationally-recognized Green Globe program and committing to having both its design and operations certified, Alila Villas Hadahaa is raising the benchmark for others to follow," said Andre Russ, Head of Global Markets for Green Globe.

Green Globe is the international benchmarking and certification programme for the travel and tourism industry based on the Agenda 21 principles for Sustainable Development endorsed by 182 Heads of State at the United Nations Rio Earth Summit in 1992. Green Globe is managed by EC3 Global, a subsidiary of the Australian based research body Sustainable Tourism Co-operative Research Centre, the world's largest source of tourism research.

Alila Villas Hadahaa is set on the pristine tropical island of Hadahaa in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll, surrounded by a vast expanse of sea, stunning coral reef, abundant fish life, and stands of the native Sea Trumpet and Sea Hearse. In developing the island, Alila kept to Green Globe's rigorous 'Building Planning and Design Standard' benchmarks and its own long-standing philosophy of luxury living in natural environments, while treading lightly to preserve the essence of a destination.

Reflecting Alila's vision of integrating commerce, conservation and community, the appointed architect, Yale-trained and Singapore-based Chan Soo Khian of SCDA Architects, creatively blended architecturally innovative designs in keeping to strict environmental standards. His design and construction blueprints were guided by Alila Villas Hadahaa's environmental impact studies.

Chan's sustainable design goals were to protect the environment and be as energy efficient as possible. To achieve these objectives, Chan orientated buildings to best deal with the tropical climate and natural environment of the island. Other innovations include rainwater harvesting, waste treatment plants, high roofed areas and open ceilings, cross ventilation in all indoor spaces, deep roof overhangs and windows shading. His concept of the resort, while contemporary in nature, makes use of many natural materials, including coconut, timber and coral stones found in the region.

Notably, the resort site will have a very low building and infrastructure coverage area. Only approximately 20% of the property will be built-up. Large areas of the site are designated for biodiversity protection, where native species will be selected and reintroduced to help maintain the existing gene pool. This will result in biodiversity replenishment, something vital to the area.

The $40 million resort will feature 14 Aqua Villas and 36 Island Villas, 20 of which come with a private pool. In-resort facilities and services include the Leisure Concierge, a dive centre, a tropical island garden spa, a fully-equipped gym, a Maldivian specialty fine dining restaurant, a rooftop lounge, the Alila Living boutique and a library with a star-gazing roof. All resort villas and facilities, strongly accented with Maldivian culture, are designed to integrate into the site as carefully as possible to preserve the natural beauty of the destination.

Sustainably planned and designed from the ground up, great care is now being taken in every detail of the construction of the resort to preserve the unique Maldivian experience and to ensure that environmental footprints are kept to a minimum. A local civil, building and labor contractor who is undertaking the major construction works will source construction materials locally wherever possible. Specifically, all building works of the jetty and Aqua Villas will only be carried out only during extreme low tides to minimize silt disturbance. There will be minimal site clearance as well, and to date, several villas were re-positioned during construction to preserve existing trees.

"I applaud Alila Villas Hadahaa for their commitment to a long term sustainable future with Green Globe and we take this opportunity to congratulate all those involved for their dedication and hard work," said Stewart Moore, Chief Executive Officer of EC3 Global.

By this commitment, Alila Villas Hadahaa is taking a leading role in helping to address the issues surrounding climate change and sustainability. It takes on a social responsibility beyond the design and construction stages to progressive operations. It will continuously monitor and assess the resort's operational efficiency, ultimately achieving the Green Globe Company Standard. Alila intends to bring the Maldivian destination experience to an unparalleled level.

Alila Villas Hadahaa represents Alila's next generation of luxury villa resorts that blend the ultimate in luxury with innovative lifestyle. Designed in harmony with its environment, Alila Villas are selectively developed to grace some of the most spectacular destinations in the world. Alila Hotels and Resorts is currently developing Alila Villas in Bali, India, Vietnam, Indochina, Oman and the Gulf regions.

Alila Hotels and Resorts currently manages seven hotels and resorts in Bali, Jakarta, Laos, Thailand and the Philippines. Many of these properties, including Alila Ubud and Alila Manggis, are well-known for their contributions to environmentally sustainable tourism. Both Alila Ubud and Alila Manggis achieved the Green Globe Certified Status in May 2007 and were conferred the inaugural Wild Asia Responsible Tourism Awards in November 2006 for their efforts and support towards responsible tourism in Asia.

Source: www.traveldailynews.com

Maldives resort debuts “Underwater Nature Trail”

Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives, opening in the fourth quarter of 2008 in the Addu Atoll, will feature the first “Underwater Nature Trail” in the Maldives, as well as a snorkelling garden “seascaped” with transplanted corals. As part of the resort’s marine initiatives, guests will also be invited to help track some of the archipelago’s largest manta rays found in the Addu Atoll waters.

The Underwater Nature Trail, designed by the resort’s marine specialist, will lead out to the resort’s house reef on the northern end of Villingili Island. Submerged signage will identify resident marine life along the way, including branching corals, sea anemones, Maldives anemonefish, clams, moray eels and the colourful juvenile Oriental Sweetlips. The marine specialist has also created snorkel gardens close to the southwest shoreline of the resort. In addition to offering a marine adventure for less experienced swimmers, the shallow-water snorkel gardens will provide a nursery for corals and reef fish.

Experienced divers will be invited to participate in the tracking of manta rays. Addu Atoll is one of the few places in the Maldives where giant manta rays with wingspans of more than five metres can be found year-round. Divers will be encouraged to photograph manta rays and contribute to the photo database that will be shared with other such centres around the world to help monitor the movement and population of these sea creatures. The resort will also set up a programme to educate and encourage guests to sponsor the satellite tagging of sea turtles and support organisations working on conservation on a larger scale.

This will be the first resort in the Maldives to offer nature trails – both above and below water. With lush vegetation providing the backdrop for trails through the coconut trees and ancient Banyan trees on the three-kilometre-long island, guests will be able to enjoy all the natural wonders of Villingili Island, on land and sea.

Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives is the first luxury resort in Addu Atoll. The resort, which is currently under development, will feature 142 villas with views of the ocean or the island’s natural lush vegetation. The Maldives’ second international airport, Gan International Airport, is an eight-minute boat ride away from the resort and Male International Airport is 70 minutes by air.

Source: www.easier.com

Lunch on The Equator: Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives

The opening of Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives in the fourth quarter of 2008 will herald a first-of-its-kind seaborne adventure – dining on the equator.

Guests will cruise aboard Shangri-La’s luxury yacht 75 kilometres north from the resort to the meeting place of northern and southern hemispheres, drop anchor and savour a gourmet lunch with fine wines on the equator line.

In addition, guests will be able to fish, snorkel and visit Fuvahmulah, the third largest island in the country, on the full-day cruise aboard the 21-metre sailing yacht. The yacht features two luxury cabins with en-suite bathroom, an indoor lounge area, spacious timber decks with sun loungers, and an on-deck dining area.

The Indian Ocean day-journey will begin with breakfast on deck, where passengers can keep a lookout for the many spinner dolphins swimming in the area. Champagne corks will fly upon reaching the equator line, celebrating arrival at one of the world’s most unusual lunch venues.

Later the captain will anchor the yacht by Fuvahmulah, an island famous for Thundi beach, located at the northern-most tip and formed by small, white, unusually smooth and shiny round pebbles. Guests will be able to snorkel or stroll along the picturesque shore. The cruise ends with sunset cocktails on deck as the yacht sails back to the resort.

Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives will be the first luxury resort in the southern Maldives, on Addu Atoll. The resort will feature 142 villas with views of the ocean or the island’s natural lush vegetation. The Maldives’ second international airport, Gan International Airport, is an eight-minute boat ride away from the resort and Male International Airport is 70 minutes by domestic flights operating around the clock.

Hong Kong-based Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts currently owns and manages 55 hotels under the Shangri-La and Traders brands with a rooms inventory of over 28,000. Shangri-La hotels are five-star deluxe properties featuring extensive luxury facilities and services. Shangri-La hotels are located in Australia, mainland China, Fiji, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Sultanate of Oman, Taiwan, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates. The group has over 50 projects under development in Austria, Canada, mainland China, France, India, Japan, Macau, Maldives, Philippines, Qatar, Seychelles, Taiwan, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and the United States. For more information or reservations, please contact a travel professional or access the website at www.shangri-la.com.

Source: www.ftnnews.com

Spas, stars and the two Rs: what's new in the Maldives?

Only about 200 of its 1,196 islands are inhabited – which leaves room for more upmarket resorts, says Simmy Richman

The Maldives is not the place to go if you want to worry about facts and figures. Are there 1,196 islands? It depends on what's considered an island and who's doing the counting. Are these tiny slabs of natural perfection south-west of Sri Lanka really, as Darwin suggested, the result of little spurts from underwater volcanoes? Less beautiful theories suggest not, but you don't come to the Maldives to ponder the evolution of this ever-shifting, sparkling and temporal mass of coral atolls liberally specked with Robinson Crusoe islands.

Let's get facts and figures out of the way then. Of the however many islands, only about 200 are inhabited, and just less than half of these are the kind of places you think about when you think about the Maldives – exclusive and luxurious resort destinations. So popular has the Maldives become with honeymooners and holidaymakers that, last year, the government gave the go-ahead for another 35 resort islands to open for business over the next 25 years. As Japanese investment is pumped in to protect the environment, the Maldives tourist industry (motto: "the sunny side of life") finds itself reaching out beyond newlyweds in an effort to touch the magical 1,000,000 visitors a year mark. (It's currently about 700,000.)

But enough with the facts and figures. Because what most people do come to the Maldives for is to realise those secret dreams of the high-maintenance castaway; they come seeking that rustic, back-to-nature experience, complete with every luxury the 21st-century can offer. Here, with nothing but our rainforest showers, opulent open-air bathrooms and flatscreen TVs, we come to play out our barefoot-executive fantasies of spas, stars and the two Rs.

No problem. Except, that is, in how you might go about making all of this appeal to those crucial non-honeymooners. Well, for one, there are now two small but highly efficient fleets of air-taxi seaplanes to make hopping between islands reasonably straightforward. And with multi-location potential comes an array of skydivers, surfers and thrill-seekers from across the world. Naturally, as the reasons behind people coming here expand and vary, so do the resorts springing up to accommodate them.

Our first stop is a 35-minute speedboat hop from Malé International Airport (about £65 per person return) to Anantara, a relatively new resort consisting of two islands. The Anantara ethos is very much the "no news, no shoes" idea pioneered by Soneva Fushi in 1995. From £250 per night, you can have an understatedly luxurious beach cabin with fabulous outdoor/ indoor bathroom and secluded terrace with private beachfront. The resort offers picnics on private islands, dolphin safaris, a Padi 5 star diving centre, yoga classes and cooking lessons as well as being a base from which to arrange more adventurous activities.

A few days at Anantara and it's a short flight by seaplane to another of the Maldives' more recent additions: the Four Seasons at Landaa Giraavaru. If Anantara was all boutique-hotel good taste, Landaa Giraavaru is, as you would expect from the Four Seasons, a masterclass in exorbitantly tasteful excellence (from about £350 per cabin per night). Here, Mother Nature is discreetly picked up when she is untidy on land while a marine conservation centre invests in and protects the delicate eco-system all around. Food and cabins – there are some 50 "beach pavilions" and 38 "water bungalows" – are, needless to say, so faultless you'll want to cry when it's time to leave.

But leave we must, because the designerly decadent W brand has also opened in the Maldives recently, throwing clubbing, singles and civil partnerships into the Maldives mix. Once our guide has delicately stressed that this is not really a place for children, I take leave to sit in my private plunge pool and dry off on my round, white day bed as the ocean laps gently underneath. Yeah baby. I am the Austin Powers of the Indian Ocean. I am in pink-pound paradise (from £350 to £5,000 per night). In W world, the gym is called "Sweat"; a bar is named "Wet"; the bathmat says "Step" and rooms are "Retreats". If you're lucky, you might just escape within an inch of your lifestyle.

Meanwhile, the planners plan and the builders build the next wave of island-hotels. (Shangri-La's Villingili, the first luxury resort on the Addu Atoll in the southern Maldives, is next up later this year.) Villingili will be served by Gan airport, now cleared to land international flights, and will boast a "retail and entertainment village", a "water activity focal point" called "The Village" and tree-house villas. Unusually, the Shangri-La group is also using the fact that Villingili is surrounded by inhabited islands which visitors are can explore by bicycle as a selling point: as resorts become evermore Prisoner-like, lack of interaction with Maldivians becomes a common complaint.

Where all this leaves the Maldives, as complex and fragile a paradise as exists, is anyone's guess. It's a good thing, then, that the Maldives is not the place to go if you want to worry about facts and figures.

Source: http://www.independent.co.uk/travel/asia

Kandooma - Maldives Launches Website

HPL Hotels & Resorts has announced that its newest property in the Maldives, Kandooma, has officially launched its new website on www.kandooma-maldives.com

In keeping in tune with the resort’s signature concept of using cool, clean lines with white washed timber amidst the great blue outdoors, the website is designed to be similarly clean-cut in fresh shades of blue and white. The functionality of the website is also such that it allows for ease of use and direct access to all web pages and a streamlined booking process.

Divided into ten easy-to-navigate sections, the intention is for the website to make the visitors’ online experience as informative and as effortless as possible. In addition, users will find a hassle-free booking engine conveniently located on every web page, which allows for a quick check on room rates and availability. Instant confirmation is also given for all online reservations.

Construction work on the resort is progressing according to schedule. The resort, owned and managed by HPL Hotels & Resorts, is the latest addition to the HPL group which has interests in 22 properties in eight countries. Due to open its doors in June 2008, the resort has 160 villas in four main categories of beach and garden villas, duplex villas, family villas and water villas.

Blessed with white sands, azure skies, lush tropical greenery and clear turquoise waters, Kandooma has created facilities and services that are intended to satisfy, engage, entertain, inform, educate and luxuriate … and www.kandooma-maldives.com is only a sneak preview into this new holiday experience!

Source: E Travel Black Board

World Resorts of Distinction now representing the Coco Collection Maldives

World Resorts of Distinction have added the Coco Collection in the Republic of the Maldives to its exclusive line of hotels.

Located just 40-minutes away from Male International Airport, the Coco Collection is an ideal getaway for vacationers, honeymooners and divers alike. The collection features a range of high end boutique resorts – including the new 5 star Coco Palm Bodu Hithi on the North Male Atoll.

The Coco Palm Bodu Hithi offers 100 luxurious beachfront and over-water villas, complete with private swimming pools. The rooms are not only spacious but also come with modern luxuries such as flat screen televisions, DVD players, music systems and a Wi-Fi internet connection.

Guests staying at the luxurious resort are truly spoilt for choice when it comes to dining. In addition to five restaurants, two bars and in-villa dining options, guests can also take advantage of the unique ‘Events’ facility for a private and tailor-made function on the beach.

The Coco Collection also includes the flagship Palm Dhuni Kolhu resort which is located in the Baa Atoll. This resort has remained a popular option with travellers since it first.

Source: E-Travel Blackboard

Luxury tents pitched in Maldives

Luxury hotel group Banyan Tree has opened an exclusive property in the Maldives that features just six private tented pool villas. Each villa at the Banyan Tree Maldives Madivaru occupies 264m² and comprises three tents featuring a living area, bedroom, bathroom, outdoor deck, a private plunge pool and two sundecks, as well as two outdoor showers.

Island hosts are on hand round-the-clock providing personalised valet services and activities including day trips and marine activities.

Guests can travel from the airport to the property on Banyan Velaa, a private 30-metre flagged double-mast yacht.

Source: AB

Naladhu, Maldives - Luxurious New Resort Named 'Hottest' in Conde Nast Traveler 'Hot List'

Naladhu, Maldives, has been named one of the world's hottest new resorts by Conde Nast Traveler in the 2007 "Hot List". The list, featured in the May edition, comprises 138 hotels, and Naladhu, Maldives is the one of the "Hottest" new properties worldwide.

The Conde Nast Traveler Hot List recognizes hotels and resorts for design, service and ambiance, making it one of the most coveted designations. Each year, an anonymous group of writers evaluates new hotels and resorts around the world for the publication. Naladhu was chosen as one of only 138 properties whose offering surpass expectations. Of the chosen properties, each is awarded a "Hot", "Hotter" or "Hottest" title, Naladhu, Maldives claimed the position as "Hottest" in the magazine's listing.

In describing Naladhu, Conde Nast Traveler says "this intimate resort provides a level of privacy and personal attention impressive even in the Maldives". In addition "Dedicated butlers, or VGCs (Very Good Chaps), exceed expectations with quiet, smiling service".

The magazine concluded "Naladhu represents the Maldives' most convenient exclusive destination yet".

Located in the aquatic setting of the Maldives, one of the world's most celebrated tropical havens, Naladhu Maldives offers a unique lifestyle to those who appreciate the sophistication and charm of times past.

Naladhu has captured the elegant aesthetics of a slightly colonial era, with hints of Sri Lankan regality in its design. However, the resort also proffers every modern convenience imaginable to the luxury traveller. Naladhu means "pretty little island", and each of the exclusive 19 Houses - each named after a Maldivian plant - has been designed to make every guest's wish become reality.

With a commitment to perfecting every detail, Naladhu fuses modern facilities with a sense of the nostalgia. White-washed timber wall panels juxtapose the zesty Indian motifs and colours of the house upholstery. Antique furnishings, such as an early 20th century writer's desk and the decorous bar cabinet conjure up images of a romantic, bygone age.

Naladhu provides the canvass and colour palette to those who wish to make their holiday picture perfect.

For reservations please telephone +960-664-4100 or email: info@naladhu.com.

Source: PR News Wire

AitkenSpence Resorts first to achieve ISO 22000: 2005 Standard in the Maldives

Four of the AitkenSpence Resorts (Adaaran) have become the first resorts in the Maldives to achieve the prestigious ISO 22000/HACCP standard, according to its General Manager Operations Nimal Sangakkara.

This was announced at a gathering held at the ADAARAN Resort of Hudhuran Fushi last week which was attended by Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Dr. Mahmoodh Shaughee, Managing Director of internationally Accredited certification body SGS Mr. Claude Lanohe, Vice Chairman of ADAARAN Resorts Rajan Brito and CEO of ADAARAN Resorts, Chethya Perera.

The ISO 22000/HACCP (Hazard Analysis of Critical Control Points) standard was received by Adaaran club Rannalhi, Adaaran Select Meedhupparu, Adaaran ayurveda village and Adaaran prestige Water Villas. “Such an achievement demonstrates the superior level of service of the resorts in the Maldives which is at par with international standards in rest of the world.

Resorts in the Maldives often receive various international awards for their excellent service; but it’s the first time that a resort in the Maldives has received an award in relation to food safety and food quality standards,” Sangakkara said in a press release.
Earlier this year, ADAARAN Resorts inaugurated its Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Studies Campus at ADAARAN Centre for Hospitality Studies in Hudhuran Fushi which fully sponsors all the costs of students who study at their campus.

Source: Sunday Times

The Regent Maldives to Open in 2008

Carlson Hotels Worldwide - Asia Pacific has confirmed plans to develop a Regent resort in the Maldives, in partnership with Maalefushi Investment Co. The Regent Maldives, which is due to open in late 2008, will be a 50-villa luxury resort on a secluded coral island, just 50 minutes by seaplane from the capital city of Male.

The Regent Maldives will occupy the entire Maalefushi Island, an unspoiled 8 hectare island paradise with lush tropical vegetation fringed with flawless white sand beaches.

Paul Kirwin, president and managing director of Carlson Hotels Worldwide - Asia Pacific said, "Everything about this resort – from the breathtaking location and distinctive architecture to the spectacular beautiful spa – will be the embodiment of The Regent Experience.”

Maalefushi Island sits at the heart of the Thaa Atoll, a natural wonderland of crystal clear waters, coral reefs, brilliant white beaches and spectacular sunsets. The Regent Maldives will feature 23 beach villas and 27 over-water villas, including two presidential villas, which will allow guests to observe the abundant marine life directly beneath their rooms. All villas are designed with private plunge pools and expansive timber decks offering breathtaking views across the turquoise lagoon.

The individual villas are designed to maximize privacy and comfort, and combine traditional Maldivian architecture with internationally-sourced materials and contemporary fabrics and furnishings selected by renowned interior designers Hirsch Bedner Associates. The bathroom of each villa opens to either a lush private garden area or ocean vistas and features indoor and outdoor showers. The two exclusive Presidential villas set over the coral lagoon include extra indulgences such as a luxurious dining pavilion with a viewing and relaxation platform, spacious bedroom suites with walk in wardrobe and private sun decks.

Integral to the theme of indulgence is the 850 square-metre Spa which resides over the lagoon, with the eight private treatment pavilions open to the ocean breezes. Specializing in innovative spa treatments, each pavilion will feature a plunge bath, outdoor shower and relaxation deck.

Dining options at The Regent Maldives will include the Maldivian Chic over-water signature grill restaurant/bar, showcasing local seafood prepared using variations of grill cuisine from nations surrounding the Maldives. Complemented with spectacular views over the water and to the sunset, The Café will offer continental style buffet for breakfast and a wide range of a la carte dishes while a more casual dining experience by the pool is available at the Ocean Terrace and Lounge. For private dining each guest villa features both indoor and outdoor dining facilities.

For recreation, a myriad of water sports and activities will be available such as scuba diving, with a fully equipped dive school and qualified dive masters, snorkelling on the reef, wind surfing, parasailing, deep sea fishing or romantic picnics on nearby uninhabited islands. There will also be a fitness centre with state-of-the-art exercise equipment.

On the beachfront is a 38 metre infinity pool, while the lush sculpted gardens include a tennis court, volleyball court and yoga pavilion. Those with a taste for adventure can explore the remote and seldom-visited atolls of the Maldives in the comfort of the resort’s luxury motor launch. A library and lounge will also provide a full range of business services.

Source:

The Regent Maldives to Open in 2008

Carlson Hotels Worldwide - Asia Pacific has confirmed plans to develop a Regent resort in the Maldives, in partnership with Maalefushi Investment Co. The Regent Maldives, which is due to open in late 2008, will be a 50-villa luxury resort on a secluded coral island, just 50 minutes by seaplane from the capital city of Male.

The Regent Maldives will occupy the entire Maalefushi Island, an unspoiled 8 hectare island paradise with lush tropical vegetation fringed with flawless white sand beaches.

Paul Kirwin, president and managing director of Carlson Hotels Worldwide - Asia Pacific said, "Everything about this resort – from the breathtaking location and distinctive architecture to the spectacular beautiful spa – will be the embodiment of The Regent Experience.”

Maalefushi Island sits at the heart of the Thaa Atoll, a natural wonderland of crystal clear waters, coral reefs, brilliant white beaches and spectacular sunsets. The Regent Maldives will feature 23 beach villas and 27 over-water villas, including two presidential villas, which will allow guests to observe the abundant marine life directly beneath their rooms. All villas are designed with private plunge pools and expansive timber decks offering breathtaking views across the turquoise lagoon.

The individual villas are designed to maximize privacy and comfort, and combine traditional Maldivian architecture with internationally-sourced materials and contemporary fabrics and furnishings selected by renowned interior designers Hirsch Bedner Associates. The bathroom of each villa opens to either a lush private garden area or ocean vistas and features indoor and outdoor showers. The two exclusive Presidential villas set over the coral lagoon include extra indulgences such as a luxurious dining pavilion with a viewing and relaxation platform, spacious bedroom suites with walk in wardrobe and private sun decks.

Integral to the theme of indulgence is the 850 square-metre Spa which resides over the lagoon, with the eight private treatment pavilions open to the ocean breezes. Specializing in innovative spa treatments, each pavilion will feature a plunge bath, outdoor shower and relaxation deck.

Dining options at The Regent Maldives will include the Maldivian Chic over-water signature grill restaurant/bar, showcasing local seafood prepared using variations of grill cuisine from nations surrounding the Maldives. Complemented with spectacular views over the water and to the sunset, The Café will offer continental style buffet for breakfast and a wide range of a la carte dishes while a more casual dining experience by the pool is available at the Ocean Terrace and Lounge. For private dining each guest villa features both indoor and outdoor dining facilities.

For recreation, a myriad of water sports and activities will be available such as scuba diving, with a fully equipped dive school and qualified dive masters, snorkelling on the reef, wind surfing, parasailing, deep sea fishing or romantic picnics on nearby uninhabited islands. There will also be a fitness centre with state-of-the-art exercise equipment.

On the beachfront is a 38 metre infinity pool, while the lush sculpted gardens include a tennis court, volleyball court and yoga pavilion. Those with a taste for adventure can explore the remote and seldom-visited atolls of the Maldives in the comfort of the resort’s luxury motor launch. A library and lounge will also provide a full range of business services.

Source: Asia Travel Tips