Industry News

The Maldives, 6 February 2023 – The award-winning resort of The Lux Collective, LUX* South Ari Atoll is a favourite destination resort among couples. With a tropical chic setting set for romantic escapes, it offers Extraordinary Experiences featuring a collection of romantic surprises. Floating breakfasts in the pool? Dinner on a sandbank or a private cinema under the stars? This resort sparkles holiday romance with its many ways to celebrate love and awaken feelings. Craft intimate moments Enjoy a floating breakfast in a private pool. With a variety of healthy and hearty menus with ocean sunrise as the backdrop, it is a perfect start of a dreamy holiday. In the evening, there is private beach Cinema Paradiso, with a movie of choice, soft drinks, light bites, ice cream, and a popcorn cart set up under the stars in an intimate location. Celebrate in the privacy of the villa A personalised floral bed decoration from the resort’s special welcome menu is a great way to surprise your beloved upon stepping into the villa. Topped-up with a bottle of bubbly and sweet treat will add to the romantic vibes. The Bubble Temptation Offer includes a 60-minute couple massage at the LUX* ME Spa, while a warm bubble bath and champagne in-villa awaits. Create photo-worthy memories First in the Maldives to launch the Flying Dress Photo Sessions for guests, LUX* South Ari Atoll invites to bring home a collection of fairy-tale photos of the tropical vacation. With colourful silk flying around in the ocean breeze, this private experience with Photo Fanatics is nothing short of magical. And what can be more ‘instagrammable’ than a private pool filled with rose petals? This is an easy fix for the resort’s romance magicians to craft an unforgettable surprise or a romantic proposal tailored to any needs. Take private dining to another level The exclusive Divine Dinner features an idyllic backdrop of the sky full of stars reflecting in calm ocean waters. Savouring exquisite chef’s specials, stargazing in the comfort of a luxury bed... this special night can’t be more romantic.Those seeking emotional connection when coming to the Maldives, are invited to awaken senses and rediscover each other during an extraordinary Love Again Date Night. Starting with a couple massage and facial in LUX* ME Spa, it continues with a luxurious hot chocolate wrap for pamper and glow. After a guided reconnecting meditation, the guests are invited to unwind in the overwater Aqua Temptation Nest for romantic movie night under the stars. With the Spa as a private venue and an exquisite dinner served in bed, this is a meaningful and unforgettable island experience. Relax & unwind together Unlimited ocean romance is awaiting aboard Kokomo - the resort’s luxury catamaran taking guests from the white sandy shores to the soothing depth of the ocean. The options vary from a private lunch to Golden Hour cruises, and full-day aboard experiences with a private bedroom and meals of choice.When the ocean turns gold at the sunset, the timing is perfect to have mind and body reset. LUX* South Ari Atoll turns it into another romantic experience with the purest connection to nature. Having a private dhoni boat exclusively for two, couples are invited for a guided meditation practice, Tibetan sound bowl therapy, breath work and yoga. All on top of the cruising boat, floating to the rhythm of the tides and waves, with a detox drink and a mood-enhancing oil blend to keep.Romance at the resort doesn’t end with Valentine’s Day. Set in tropical surroundings, it inspires celebrating love from the first steps on the island. Hidden private coves, stretching sandbanks, and picture-perfect scenery call for memorable bonding moments and creative couple photography. LUX* South Ari Atoll’s bestselling Romantic Pool Water Villas are 110 square metres of bliss. Cosy and chic, they each come with a private pool, an ocean-view deck for lazing in the sun, a hanging bird's nest swing, a flight of steps to the lagoon, and all the imaginable comforts. Or book the Temptation Pool Water Villa to spoil your lover, where the hardest decision to make is choosing among the 14-metre private infinity pool, jacuzzi, or infinite lagoon for a relaxing dip.

The Maldives, 17 January 2023 – LUX* South Ari Atoll, the renowned Maldivian resort of The Lux Collective, kicked off the year of 2023 by making wishes come true. The Tree of Wishes ceremony is the long-living tradition of LUX* Resorts & Hotels, taking inspiration from temples in Japan and China, native American tribes, and even Yoko Ono’s Wish Tree art installation. Open to all guests, the ceremony invites the participants to make a wish, write it on a colourful ribbon and tie it around a branch of the island’s banyan tree. Once a year, during the festive season, one of the ribbons is picked at a lucky draw, gifting its owner with a free holiday at LUX* South Ari Atoll. During the weekly wishing ceremony guests are also encouraged to make a voluntary donation to the resort’s care fund. Every year the collated amount is donated to a local social responsibility organisation, allowing more precious wishes to come true. This year, the team of the Ministry of Gender, Social and Family services received a USD 20,000 fund for the needs of local children deprived of parental care. At the official community donation event, LUX* South Ari Atoll welcomed the representatives of the Ministry: Hon. Aishath Mohamed Didi - the Minister of Gender, Family and Social Services as well as State Ministers Mr. Mohamed Shihab and Dr Abdul Malik. Hon. Aishath Mohamed Didi commented, “This initiative is important to us not because of the fund received, but for what it symbolises. This is about taking care of the community. To date, we have almost 200 children under the age of 18 under the state care, and they need a lot of love, care, and attention.” “Serving the community is as important to LUX* South Ari Atoll team as delivering the best service to our guests”, said John Rogers, General Manager of the resort. “We are proud to provide continual support to the Ministry of Gender, Social and Family services in its strive to provide equal opportunities to every citizen of the Maldives”. With the ethos “We Make Each Moment Matter. We Care About What Matters.”, The Lux Collective is a hotel management company with passion for service. In the heart of its purpose, It is committed to operating in a considered, respectful manner, mindful of its contribution to future generations.

Diving headfirst into the new season Azure Beach, the award-winning beach club at the Rixos Premium Dubai JBR, has announced the launch of its new swimming pool for adults and a series of exciting events. The adults-only pool is surrounded by a 1,500 square meter deck space and prime sunbathing area boasting an impressive 56 sets of sunbeds, allowing guests to bask in pool-side splendor like never before. These new additions to Azure Beach’s already impressive picture-perfect setting, exquisite cocktails, cool DJ beats and sophisticated yet lively party mood, guarantee that it is the place to be for grown-up fun in the sun. Over the years, the beachfront destination has brought incredible events, live entertainment and more to JBR, securing the award-winning beach club’s status as the coolest poolside spot in the city. Fittingly, Azure Beach will celebrate its new adults-only pool with a host of sensational events, all of which will unfold against a backdrop of fabulous views. “Since we launched five years ago, Azure Beach has earned a well-deserved reputation for delivering amazing experiences and leading the curve with its on-trend offerings. With the launch of the new adults-only pool, we’re thrilled to bring guests an extravaganza of events,” said James Oliver Burton, Managing Director – Daylife Division for Sunset Hospitality.   Ladies’ Day Extravaganza Taking the female-focused day to a new level with AED200 only for a sunbed, towel, and five complimentary drinks, visitors can bask in pool-side pampering thanks to a hair-braiding station and glitter bar. When: Tuesday, 22nd November Time: Ladies' Day: 10 am – 8 pm Time: Braiding & glitter bar: 12 pm – 4 pm   Art Galore Professional artists and calligraphers will be on hand to customize beach bags and sun hats with tropical graphics, illustrations, and custom monograms. When: Tuesday, 6th December Time: 12 pm – 4 pm   Live entertainment Drumming up the excitement, the ongoing entertainment will include spirited dancers, contemporary violinists, smooth saxophonists, and a passionate trumpeter. When: Every day of the week excluding Mondays Time: 2 pm – 5 pm   Aqua Fitness Classes In partnership with RAISE Fitness & Wellness – an upscale fitness and wellness facility, guests can energize their mind and body with one-hour long Aqua Fitness classes at the all-new adults-only pool. The classes also offer mini breakfast wraps, choice of tropical coconut chia bowl or freshly made yoghurt with granola and berries, fresh juices, coffee or tea, water and fresh fruits.  When: Every Monday Time: 8:30 am – 10 am   Entry fees with access to the new adults-only pool, sunbed and towel: Mondays – Thursdays: AED300 with AED100 redeemable on food and drinks Fridays – Sundays: AED400 with AED200 redeemable on food and drinks   And that’s not all – with every day pass, guests can avail AED100 off on any spa treatment at Naturelife Spa, located at the Rixos Premium JBR and, buy one get one signature cocktail during Cocktail Happy Hour from 7 pm – 9 pm. *Sunbeds are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. * Children under the age of 12 will not be permitted to swim in the new pool   Regular opening hours: 10 am – 10 pm   About Sunset Hospitality Founded in 2011, Sunset Hospitality Group is a hospitality investment and management company with a proven success record in delivering high-quality concepts, with unique style and service-focused culture. With a commitment to innovation and quality, the group has developed new pioneering concepts and partnered with acclaimed multinational brands to create new and unique experiences around the world. In Dubai, these concepts include Black Tap, Luigia, Sweet Chick, Joe’s Backyard, Ammos, L’Occitane Café, Azure Beach, DRIFT Beach Dubai, STAGE, MOOD and SUSHISAMBA. For information visit: https://www.sunsethospitality.com/

Neyvaa 2 has officially received Guinness World Record for the most number of people performing static apnea from all over the Maldives with multiple locations across the archipelago at the given time. At the event held on 1st October 2022 at CROSSROADS Maldives, a total of 459 individuals participated in the event from 12 different resorts and several corporate companies. However, only 455 individuals were able to hold their breath underwater for one minute and thirty seconds as per the guidelines set for the record.  The event further focused on the climate change awareness. Using the hashtag #1breath4theoceans the organizers aimed to raise awareness on the global climate crisis affecting our island destination. Neyvaa 2 event organized by Freedive Maldives was held to commemorate Golden Jubilee – 50 years of tourism in the Maldives, this event promoted the passion for free driving and highlighted the Maldives on the map for free divers worldwide. The certificate was presented by the Representative at Guinness World Record Swapnil Dangarikar and was received by the Founder of Freedive Maldives Fahud Faiz at the gala dinner held to celebrate the free diving record.

The second annual International Wellness Tourism Conference has been postponed to 29-30 November 2022, following Hurricane Fiona.“Taking place in the Dominican Republic, the two-day event is built around the theme of supporting the continuing growth of wellness tourism,” said Anne Dimon, Wellness Tourism Association (WTA) president and CEO. The conference will be totally devoted to wellness tourism, wellness travel and other topics of interest to DMOs, suppliers, travel advisors, wellness retreat leaders, wellness practitioners, media and others interested in the growing wellness sector of the tourism industry. This intimate conference will be a great opportunity for participants to learn, to share their knowledge and to network with others in the industry. The event will be hosted at luxury hotel Eden Roc Cap Cana. Both WTA members and non-members are welcome to attend. Delegates can book accommodation with preferential rates at either Eden Roc Cap Cana or the nearby hotel Melia Punta Cana.   Speakers and topics Dimon will present the results of the 2022 Wellness Travel Consumer Survey, plus head of partnerships at WeTravel Shayne Zand will talk about what WeTravel consumer booking patterns are indicating for the future. Paradigm shift in medicine: the wellness resort/retreat takes on a more important role in “preventive medicine,” plus “ageing as a disease”. Dr Ron Kapp, Santa Barbara-based physician, author and anti-ageing research clinician, sees functional medicine as a modality to prevent the chronic diseases of ageing and prolong life. At the conference, he’ll present an introduction to the foundation for unravelling this new arena of medicine and will also speak about how wellness tourism stakeholders can become part of the healthcare system. Cannabis is gaining traction under the umbrella of health and wellness. Dr Adam Abodeely MD, MBA, FACS, FASCRS and CEO and co-founder of Coral Cove Wellness Resort, educates on plant-based therapies and integrative therapies to enhance wellness, not simply treat illness. He believes that a truly holistic wellness experience is one where ancient wisdom and plant-based therapies live in perfect harmony with modern science and medicine. How DMOs are enhancing their wellness offerings. As the future of travel unfolds with wellness top-of-mind for consumers, more geographic destinations around the world are reviewing what they offer under the banner of wellness, looking to launch wellness initiatives and position themselves as wellness destinations. Tameka Warton, director of tourism, Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (Canada Region) will unveil what her DMO is doing, and Olia Kinoti, director of African Oasis Safaris, will speak about East Africa. Travel advisors and suppliers - working better together. Led by Barbara Nichuals, president and CEO of Bayside Travel Group of Companies, this roundtable discussion will find travel advisors sharing their clients' needs and wants with suppliers, along with their concerns and requirements for successful partnerships. Suppliers, in return, will be able to respond with their own requirements, plus help advisers understand more about their wellness programs and other offerings. Building a marketing strategy to reach wellness-minded consumers. Bibi Mukherjee, founder and principal of Curve Trends Marketing and co-founder of Sojourn Bicycling Vacations, will discuss developing a scalable, data-driven marketing strategy that, regardless of the budget, can help generate a comprehensive marketing plan. Spiritual modalities for mental health. Hilary Thurston, a therapeutic counsellor with the City of Toronto and registered member of the Ontario College of Social Workers, will present on the topic of psycho-spiritual frameworks and strategies to help guests and clients shift their mindset, find personal clarity and move through life transitions with confidence.

The Lux Collective’s award-winning resort LUX* South Ari Atoll announces a week of after-sunset festivities to wow its guests. As the sun goes down, hot Maldivian nights from 5 -10 October 2022 will unveil a range of extraordinary experiences across the tropical island, one of the largest luxury resorts in the Maldives. Join Not-Your-Ordinary Beach Parties Ever thought that beach barbeque is of no fun, how about topping it up with live DJ sessions, free-flow beverages and thrilling games for adults and families? Lagoon Bar, the most vibrant island spot will be turned into the entertainment hub of LUX* South Ari Atoll. Mexican Fiesta and a grand Beach Party at the island’s sandbank will be open to all guests who are eager for once-in-a-lifetime entertainment thrills. Checking out the resort’s Disco Toilet is a must for a unique bathroom experience and a memorable photoset with friends inside its signature Photo-booth. Pajama Parties on the beach is nothing surprising for this unique resort. Guests can put on the best nightgown or bathrobe and head for the Toes-in-Sand dancing sessions followed with Pillow Fight Contests and more. Fun Instagram posts are guaranteed. Get LUX*-ified This month, fashion trends will move from magazines and high-street boutiques onto white sand beaches. The first in the Maldives to launch a Flying Dress Photoshoot Package for its guests, LUX* South Ari Atoll invites all fashionistas to don and strike a pose in dramatic silk gowns for a dazzling photo experience of a lifetime. Guests can visit pop-up booths of internationally known designers who will showcase their stylish outfits and latest collections on the island. Raidha’s Maldives founded by designer Raidha Shafeeq will be the spotlight of Maldivian Night at MIXE with her island-inspired outfits on a beach catwalk. Senegal-born Diarra Russo will present her conscious lifestyle US brand DIARRABLU on an overwater runway in Beach Rouge amidst live music and an open bar. Dance In The Moonlight After sunset, the island of Dhidhoofilolhu dives into mysterious tropical night vibe, while the October’s full moon will add more magic to it. Beach Rouge features Mediterranean specialties, signature drinks and vibrant evening DJ parties. Maldivian nights in MIXE with live boduberu show and a bonfire dance battle are activities not to be missed during this holiday trip. West Point, lit with moonlight, is the perfect venue for the special themed Full Moon Dinner – a luxury barbeque buffet with exclusive beverage selection and live music. Stargazing and fine dining on a sandbank with uninterrupted ocean views add to the enchanting tropical vacation. Stay Tuned For More Exciting events on the island will continue after 10 October. Living the LUX* brand’s purpose of “helping people celebrate life”, the resort promises holidays full of surprises and fun. With the Halloween approaching, the resort is getting ready for one of the most thrilling nights of the year. Spooky decorations, special menus, and fun-filled programme are designed for adults and kids alike. Costumes are optional but having great fun with your family and friends is a must. Book the tropical getaway at LUX* South Ari Atoll now! Room rates start from USD 441 per night, with special offers available. For more information, visit www.luxresorts.com, email the resort at stay@luxmaldivesresort.com, or call +960 668 0901.

The annual International Housekeeping Week wrapped up with series of great celebrations worldwide. Celebrated every second week of September, it praises hard work and dedication of room service teams at every guest house, hotel, and resort. This is also a great chance for the management to show their appreciation to all the team members who work hard every day maintaining property's operations. Talented teams across continents and countries showcased their best tips and tricks for creating the most memorable experiences for their guests. Let's take a moment to take a look at some great work shared with us by hotel teams around the globe. Welcome floral art from LUX* South Ari Atoll, Maldives Towel art from Intercontinental Malta Bed decoration at Golden Tulip Jalandhar, India Celebration at Hard Rock Maldives Flower room decorations from Le Taha'a Island Resort & Spa, French Polynesia

April at LUX* South Ari Atoll was full of engaging events and workshops, with creative souls from around the world invited to express their love for the Maldives. A visiting artist from Germany, Jeaninne Platz, is a renowned calligrapher and an artist with marine focus. She is famous for painting using only her hands and a scrapper. Over the years, she has been established as an artist thanks to her unique talent. Her artworks and classes are hosted in galleries across the globe. Guests of LUX* South Ari Atoll of all ages and skills were invited for unmatched painting expriences, including a calligraphy egg decorating workshop. Not forgetting local talents, the resort also invited Mariyam Barsha Mohamed - a self-taught artist who learnt her craft through experience. Already well established within the islands, she works mostly with acrylics but likes to explore different mediums Today Barsha is known for the dot art she does, and she shared her famous colourful technique with the guests of LUX* South Ari Atoll. Another local talent, Hassan Raaif Siraj, has been involved in the world of art since he was a toddler, starting his career in the field at the age of 16 and named one of the Top 10 artists by GCE Art and Design for remarkable lifelike works. His famous paintings reflect the natural beauty of the country and island lifestyle, impressing both guests and residents in  the Maldives. Together the visiting artists also performed two live painting sessions, blending their unique techniques of depicting ocean view into large combined canvas. The artworks were displayed across the island, available for purchase for  all art admirers. The art of sound was embraced at Beach Rouge, during the special music set played by the celebrity DJ Bianca Gaiscoigne from United Kingdom. Along with signature drinks, guests enjoyed her signature mixing style at the ideal ocean sunset spot of the island. Famous for its creative approach in every detail, LUX* South Ari Atoll will keep helping people Celebrate Life in bright colours with new artistic experiences for its guests.

Visit Maldives, the official online informational source of the Maldives is excited to share an upcoming online event - a launch of "Tales of Maldives" "Throughout the past few years, we have realised that there is an important need for us to promote and showcase our folklores, stories, and tales of magic and wonder." - Visit MaldivesThe “Tales of Maldives'' is a series of short films showcasing some of the most captivating island stories, to carry on the tradition of the powerful local story-telling. From the well-known tales of Don Hiyala and Alifulhu to the role of magic and the supernatural in Maldivian society, it delves deep into the Maldivian landscape to tell stories of romance, intrigue, magic, and wonder. The stories are interwoven with our natural breathtaking beauty, which is a crucial element of what makes up the “Maldivian” identity.  It will be shared with the world for the first time at a special Facebook launch event on 20th October 2021 at 20:00. The joiners of the virtual discovery will also have a chance to win a trip to the tropical islands. Facebook event page link: https://fb.me/e/1lEzJ4Yq2

Millions of curious minds were waiting for this exciting event, and finally Expo 2020 is ready to welcome the visitors from all around the globe. Running for half a year, from October 2021 to March 2022, this show brings together travelers, inventors, businessmen, and tourist from 190 countries.  UAE expects a tourism boost during the period, ready to welcome more than 25 millions of Expo 2020 visitors. To make the visiting experience even more exciting, the guests can purchase and Expo 2020 passport, stamping it along the way across the massive country pavilions. A series of engaging experiences for the visitors include theme weeks, art galleries, a variety of entertainment and an array of other activities, available on the event's calendar. Entry passes, daily, monthly, and seasonal, are available at the venue's website. Moreover, hoteliers have a chance to see the grand show free of charge, claiming their free ticket with a work ID. 

The yearly travel, hospitality and tourism conference will be hosted on May 8 to 11 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, with a virtual event from May 17 to 18 for those unable to make it in person. The event will focus on the future of international travel and tourism, highlighting the potential challenges and opportunities facing the industry. While much of the previous ATM was centred around the recovery from Covid, the next show will talk more about looking into the future.  Show highlights in 2022 will also include destination summits focused on the key source markets of Saudi Arabia, CIS, China and India, with a global event for travel technology which puts a spotlight on the latest technology for travel and hospitality.  Even with the global travel and social distancing restrictions, the ATM 2021 event was very well received, with over 21K attendees arriving from more than a hundred countries. During the virtual event, over 30K profiles were registered on the ATM Virtual platform, and almost 20 thousands of face-to-face virtual meetings took place along with thousands of conference attendees.