The festive season is a time for celebration, reflection, and cherished moments with loved ones. This year, Angsana Velavaru, nestled in the idyllic Maldives, invites guests to embrace the spirit of the holidays with a series of unique events and unforgettable experiences from 21 December to 07 January, the resort will host a series of exclusive events and activities that capture the heartwarming essence of the holidays while celebrating the beauty and culture of the Maldives.
Photo credits: Angsana Velavaru
The festive journey at Angsana Velavaru is designed to create magical memories through 101 exciting ways to celebrate. From the arrival of Santa to an exclusive New Year’s Eve countdown party, each moment promises to immerse guests in the joy and warmth of the season. The island’s vibrant celebrations begin on December 21, with the lighting of the resort’s grand Christmas tree. This spectacular moment marks the beginning of an unforgettable holiday experience, where guests can bask in the festive glow of the tree and prepare for the exciting events to follow.
On December 24, the island comes alive with the arrival of Santa, who brings joy to all with his merry visit. Later, guests are invited to a festive cocktail party where holiday carols fill the air, followed by a lively red-and-white DJ party at the Kuredhi Pool Bar. For those seeking a more tranquil celebration, the resort offers a Christmas Eve Gala Dinner at Kaani Restaurant, where guests can indulge in a specially curated feast that combines local Maldivian flavours with global festive favourites.
The magic continues on December 25 with a Santa Meet & Greet, where children can meet the jolly man in person, creating cherished memories. Afterward, the resort will host a special Christmas Movie Night under the stars, offering guests a chance to relax and enjoy festive films in a magical tropical setting.
As the year comes to a close, the festive spirit peaks with an Innovative Cocktail Counter on December 31, where guests can indulge in creative cocktails that add an extra sparkle to the final moments of 2024. The highlight of the holiday season arrives with the New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner and Countdown Party, offering a glamorous celebration to bid farewell to the old year and welcome in the new with style.
Festivities at Angsana Velavaru extend far beyond seasonal events. The resort offers an extensive range of activities designed to engage all guests, regardless of age or interests. Watersports enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise, with an array of exhilarating options available,
Umana Bali, an LXR Hotels & Resorts property, recently marked its first anniversary with an unforgettable three-day celebration. Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts has quickly become a premier luxury destination on the southern tip of Bali, known for its captivating experiences, world-class dining, and curated activities.
Photo credits: Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts
A Weekend of Celebration
From November 15 to 17, Umana Bali hosted an exclusive event spanning three days and two nights, filled with epicurean adventures, artistic showcases, and wellness offerings. All honoured guests, media friends are enjoyed an array of experiences, including a culinary journey led by renowned chefs, a fashion showcase, and immersive wellness activities. The celebration began with a welcome dinner at the resort's Uma Beach House. The evening embraced elemental Balinese themes through its decor, cuisine, and entertainment, featuring a stunning fire and dance performance by Bala Bali and a live show by Angela July, setting a magical tone for the weekend. The second evening highlighted the anniversary celebration's climax. Guests were treated to performances by an illuminated violinist, roving performers, and an aerial showstopper. The night featured star-studded headliners, including musical talents Alessandro De Angelis and Bunga Citra Lestari, alongside celebrity chefs Arnold Poernom o and Reynold Poernomo, who took over the kitchen of Commune Restaurant for the Gala dinner, and offered a specially curated three-course menu blending local and international cuisine, complemented by uniquely flavorful Balinese food stations.
Curated Island Experiences
Throughout the weekend, guests were invited to experience Bali's rich heritage cultural experiences, offering a refined connection to the island's vibrant culture. Umana Bali launched a series of exclusive collaborations with renowned local artisans and brands. All the invitation can explore the art of ceramics with Kevala Ceramics, enjoy a luxury pop-up store from renowned fashion brand Votum by Sebastian Gunawan, and participate in jewelry-making workshops in collaboration with Clemence Jewelry.
The resort also introduced new wellness and cultural activities to enrich each stay, which will continue to be available to guests. Mornings start with rejuvenating yoga sessions led by professional instructors, followed by an array of unique experiences: Indonesian coffee tasting, Balinese cooking classes, Balinese wine tasting, and special Balinese arak tasting.
“We are excited to celebrate this milestone and to reflect on the incredible journey Umana Bali has had over the past year,” said Serpil Guney, General Manager of Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts “Our vision was to create a destination that offers both luxury and authenticity, and it is wonderful to see that vision come to life with the support of our partners and our dedicated team.”
For more information or to make a reservation, please visit the resort's website here or call +62 361 3007000.
Once a misunderstood term, 'influencer' has now become one of the most sought-after careers, with over 98,000 creators in the UK alone reaching an audience of 5,000 or more followers on Instagram. For aspiring (and existing) influencers – that dream is now within reach. Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort, an all-natural island floating on crystal-clear waters in the remote Shaviyani Atoll, has unveiled its 'Millionaire for a Month' giveaway where one lucky winner will enjoy a 30-day escape to this breathtaking 120-villa, 5-star Maldivian resort, experiencing their full spectrum of villa accommodations, thrilling island adventures and a secluded slice of paradise – 'filling their feed' with pictures of paradise.
Photo credits: Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort
THE PRIZE
As the “Millionaire for a Month” winner, you and your guest will enjoy a 30-day escape at Sirru Fen Fushi, rotating weekly through the resort's most exclusive villas. The stay progresses from the Sunset Deluxe Beach Villa in week one, to the unique Safari Tent Villa in week two, the Water Villa Sunrise for an overwater experience in week three, ending with the luxurious Grand Water Villa in the final week. This all-inclusive retreat covers gourmet dining, seaplane transfers, and an itinerary filled with unforgettable experiences: private beach dinners, dolphin-watching, rejuvenating spa treatments, snorkelling adventures, and evenings at the jungle cinema.
TO ENTER
The competition is open to Instagram users aged 18 or older at the time of entry. Multiple entries are allowed, as long as each submission adheres to the specified competition guidelines. Best of all, there's no minimum follower requirement – as long as you have a public Instagram profile, you're eligible to enter. Entries will be judged by the creativity, quality, and engagement and can be submitted until 26th November 2024:
• Step 1: Follow @sirrufenfushi.maldives on Instagram
• Step 2: Post your most profound travel memory or a Maldives-inspired photo using the hashtag #SirruMillionaire
• Step 3: Tag a travel buddy in your post with whom you'd like to share this adventure of a lifetime with
• Step 4: Share your post on your Instagram story as well, tagging @sirrufenfushi.maldives
ISLAND CONTENT CREATOR
The winner will capture and share their island experience in line with the following requirements:
• Daily Content: A minimum of three Instagram Stories posted each day on specified social channels, tagging @sirrufenfushi.maldives
• Weekly Posts:
- At least three permanent posts per week on Instagram or other agreed-upon platforms
- Five Instagram Reel videos per week, with each video showcasing different aspects of the stay in 10-15 second clips
- A set of 50 high-quality images delivered weekly, highlighting the villas, island scenery, and experiences. Final edits must be provided with full usage rights granted to Sirru Fen Fushi, including non-exclusive, worldwide, perpetual, and irrevocable rights for digital and print publication, including third-party use.
For more information and T&C's, visit https://sirrufenfushi.com/millionaire-for-a-month/.
Park Igls Medical Spa Resort has been voted Best Destination Spa in Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2025. This is yet another accolade to add to the resort’s glittering résumé, and testimony to its uncompromising high standard of comfort and care.
Photo credits: Park Igls Medical Spa Resort
Managing Director Andrea Gnägi MAG accepted the award on behalf of her team at a black-tie dinner in London on 6 November. She said: ‘It’s always pleasing to have our work endorsed, and especially by such a prestigious organisation, whose judgements have been a reference for discerning travellers for over 40 years.’
Park Igls was chosen for its pioneering Modern Mayr Medicine and world-class integrated healthcare. The holistic approach includes treatment programmes adapted exclusively to each individual. The latest diagnostics and therapies, administered with expertise, discretion and care, form the basis of the guest experience, enabling visitors to enjoy the health benefits for years to come.
Perched above Innsbruck in Austria’s beautiful Tyrolean Alps, Park Igls Medical Spa Resort (www.park-igls.com) offers health-conscious individuals the chance to boost physical and mental wellbeing in inspiring Alpine surroundings. Five-star services and facilities, gourmet Modern Mayr Cuisine, and a wide range of on- and off-site activities complete the picture. There’s nowhere better for a life-enhancing stay.
Through a collective vision and a range of collaborative initiatives, the Greek island safeguards a viable and sustainable destination for future generations. Additionally, the destination celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Enfield 8000, an electric car built on the island
Nanku Wellbeing Spa at Punta Islita Resort: Chorotega Healing and Ancestral Rituals
Punta Islita’s Nanku Wellbeing Spa introduces a range of unique treatments designed to reconnect guests with the earth’s healing energies. Signature offerings include:
Ancestral Healing Workshop: Guests explore the therapeutic benefits of local plants like Juanilama and turmeric, known for their digestive, anti-inflammatory, and calming properties. The workshop features hands-on experiences with herbal infusions, essential oils, and traditional remedies passed down through generations.
Ancestral Moon Circle Rituals: Tailored to align with the lunar phases, these deeply restorative sessions incorporate therapeutic massages, fire ceremonies, and crystal healing, using white quartz and locally sourced herbs. Available for individuals or couples, the experience is designed to release emotional burdens and foster a sense of inner peace and renewal.
Beachfront Yoga Deck: A brand new space, surrounded by tropical vegetation and overlooking Islita Beach, offers daily yoga and meditation classes harmonize the body’s rhythms with the natural ebb and flow of the ocean.
Photo credits: Punta Islita’s Nanku Wellbeing Spa
Bearth Spa at El Mangroove Resort: Mindful Modalities and Sound Healing
El Mangroove’s Bearth Spa elevates its wellness offerings with an new menu of holistic treatments. New highlights include:
Cacao Ceremony: A heart-opening ritual using raw cacao, celebrated for its transformative properties. This experience is designed to foster self-love, emotional release, and a deeper connection to nature.
Sound Healing Therapy: Harnessing the ancient vibrations of Tibetan singing bowls and chimes, this modality aims to relax the mind, balance the body’s energy, and promote deep meditative states.
Mohari Hospitality (“Mohari”) today announced the acquisition of the Bauer Hotel in Venice, Italy. The acquisition of this iconic property is a significant addition to Mohari’s growing European portfolio, underscoring its commitment to building a collection of luxury properties with irreplaceable heritage and unique cultural resonance. Previous owner, Signa Group, had signed a management agreement with Rosewood Hotels, which will operate the property.
Mohari has made this latest acquisition alongside its strategic partner in Europe, Omnam Investment Group, a real estate investment and development group specializing in high-end, transformative hospitality with over a decade of experience in Italy and Europe, investing and developing historic and complex projects.
The Bauer Hotel is located in the heart of Venice and considered one of the city’s architectural treasures, embodying late 19th-century Venetian medieval mannerism. The property is positioned on the Grand Canal in the historic San Marco district, just steps from the world-renowned Piazza San Marco. Under its new ownership, the property will undergo an extensive restoration, recapturing its grandeur as a symbol of Venetian elegance.
“Our vision at Mohari is to establish a portfolio of unparalleled luxury hospitality destinations defined by iconic locations, heritage value, and exceptional guest experiences. The legendary Bauer Hotel fits perfectly within our vision,” said Mark Scheinberg, Founder and Principal of Mohari Hospitality.
“The Bauer is truly irreplaceable, prominently situated in the beautiful city of Venice. We are proud to have the opportunity to preserve and elevate this extraordinary jewel of a property, honoring its legacy while transforming it to become one of Europe’s most distinguished hotels.”
Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, celebrated for their global collection of remarkable destinations and expertise in reimagining heritage properties, will bring their design, restoration, and operational excellence to the project.
The Bauer Hotel joins Mohari’s growing collection of luxury European assets, following the Company’s recent acquisition of a historic Parisian property, which is set to become a luxury hotel of exceptional prominence and stature, and its previous flagship investment in the Four Seasons Hotel in Madrid, which has since become one of Europe’s most exceptional hotels.
Mohari and Omnam were advised on the acquisition by Kryalos SGR, DLA Piper, Deloitte, Eastil Secured, CBRE, and Cushman & Wakefield.
LUX* South Ari Atoll is proud to announce it has been named Best for Families in the Africa, Asia and Middle East regions at the 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence. This esteemed accolade highlights the resort’s dedication to delivering exceptional family-friendly experiences in the Maldives.
Photo credits: LUX* South Ari Atoll
Condé Nast Johansens, a trusted luxury travel guide, is renowned for its expert recommendations of the world’s finest hotels, restaurants, and travel experiences. The Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence are among the most prestigious in the hospitality industry, with winners selected by an independent panel of experts who assess accommodation quality, service, dining, and overall ambience.
“We are honoured to receive this recognition from Condé Nast Johansens,” says John Rogers, General Manager of LUX* South Ari Atoll. “Our goal is to provide families with the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, ensuring each guest, young and older, has a memorable experience. Our commitment to high standards is reflected through our family-friendly accommodation, engaging PLAY kids’ club and island experiences.”
This recognition from Condé Nast Johansens emphasises LUX* South Ari Atoll’s status as a premier destination for family travellers. From cinema under the stars and coral planting workshops to snorkelling with whale sharks and island treasure hunts, the resort continues to set the benchmark for luxury family travel globally.
For bookings and enquiries on family experiences, please visit www.luxresorts.com, contact stay@luxmaldivesresort.com, or call +960 668 0901.
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is proud to announce its achievement of the Forbes VERIFIED Responsible Hospitality badge, awarded to properties that uphold over 100 stringent standards designed to protect the environment and support the well-being of employees, guests, and local communities. This recognition reflects the resort's unwavering commitment to sustainable practices and responsible hospitality.
Photo credits: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
In a stellar year for recognition, the resort has also achieved the Green Globe Certification, a prestigious accolade that underscores its dedication to minimizing environmental impact, promoting sustainable tourism, and creating a sustainable environment for future generations. Achieving the Green Globe Certification involves a rigorous process that requires adherence to strict criteria across energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, and social and cultural sustainability. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands has successfully demonstrated its commitment to quality and excellence through a recent evaluation across a comprehensive set of compliance indicators.
Renato de Oliveira, General Manager at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, stated, “We are incredibly proud to receive both the Forbes VERIFIED Responsible Hospitality badge and the Green Globe Certification, reflecting our tireless commitment to sustainable hospitality and dedication to the protection of our natural world. This recognition is a testament to the efforts of our entire team, our Ladies and Gentlemen, in creating exceptional guest experiences with respect for the environment at our core. And of course we will continue to innovate to ensure our environmental footprint is light and fruitful for the planet and our community.”
A FOUNDATION OF RESPECT
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands was meticulously designed with respect for the area's fragile ecosystem. Prior to construction on an existing sandbank, marine experts conducted extensive studies to ensure minimal impact on coral reefs and marine spawning. Sustainable construction materials, such as PEFC-certified timber from responsibly managed forests in Europe, were used, allowing the resort to earn PEFC Project Certification. The developers also achieved EDGE certification, leading to the Maldives' first green loan.
NATURAL BEAUTY
Land: The resort landscape features thousands of adopted trees and carefully selected native plants to prevent forest degradation and the negative impacts of importation. Among these is a 100-foot-tall Banyan tree in the Mystique Garden, dedicated to the resort’s late architect Kerry Hill. Acres of white sand stretch toward the blue lagoon, serving as a sanctuary for crabs, birds, and sea turtles.
Sea: Encompassing 99% ocean, the Maldives is a vibrant underwater world. The resort island is encircled by a lively coral reef that shelters lobsters, fish, rays, and sea turtles. Preserving the reef and marine life remains a priority, with over 105 coral frames planted since the project's inception and 28 frames planted in 2024 alone. The resort's coral regeneration initiative has created abundant nursery frames and new habitats for ocean life.
Photo credits: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES
Energy: The resort harnesses solar and sustainable energy, contributing approximately 20% of its total electricity needs. In 2024, rooftop solar panel systems were installed on all guest villas, and the installation of a floating solar garden began, which is expected to add 1,400 kWp to the grid by 2025. Each villa is equipped with a smart energy-saving management system, while hot water pumps utilize ambient thermal energy.
Culinary Consciousness: The resort’s seven dining venues prioritize locally sourced ingredients, offering an extensive selection of plant-based options and 100% cage- and crate-free eggs and meat. Daily food waste, approximately 726 kg, is composted for the resort gardens. Additionally, our culinary and bar teams embrace a zero-waste approach, creating chutneys and coffee scrubs, along with various other initiatives to minimize waste.
Water: Still and sparkling water is purified at the resort’s dedicated plant using filters from Nordaq, eliminating the need for plastic bottles. Greywater is treated and reused for landscaping.
Plastic Use: The resort has committed to banning single-use plastics, implementing reusable water bottles, bamboo-based serving ware, and crystal amenity jars. Its garden and desalination plant also contribute to reducing plastic imports.
PARTNERSHIPS AND PROGRAMS
Drone Research: The resort has implemented an advanced ocean plastics monitoring program using drones, developed in partnership with Dr. Melissa Schiele. In 2024, the program has completed 50 drone flights, identifying critical plastic debris, including eleven ghost nets weighing approximately 418 kg. These ghost nets pose a significant threat to marine life, as they can ensnare and kill creatures. By removing them, the resort helps to prevent these tragic incidents and protect the ocean ecosystem.
Jean-Michel Cousteau Ambassadors of the Environment Program: This program continues to provide guest experiences focused on environmental preservation in collaboration with the renowned oceanographic explorer. This year, Cousteau visited the resort again to further educate students from Villa College and the Maldives National University, as well as the resort’s naturalists. His ongoing presence inspires both guests and Ladies and Gentlemen alike, reinforcing the importance of environmental stewardship.
Saad Amer as Sustainability Champion: This year, Saad Amer, recognized as a Climate Activist and a member of Forbes' 30 Under 30 for social impact, visited The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands to curate meaningful guest experiences. His session, titled "A Thought Experiment: How to Save Our Planet," engaged both guests and the local community, where he shared valuable insights on the impacts of climate change. During his visit, he connected with students from Maldives National University and Villa College to discuss future initiatives. Additionally, he led an interactive activity with the resort’s younger guests, inspiring them to become "Climate Kids" and fostering a sense of environmental stewardship from an early age.
Community Footprints: The resort engages with local schools through educational excursions, promoting ocean conservation awareness. In 2024, eight educational excursions took place, including visits to Dhiffushi, Thulusdhoo, Gaafaru and Huraa. A notable initiative this year was a recycling competition held with students from Dhiffushi, where the winning teams were awarded a visit to The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands for a special lunch with the resort’s naturalist. During this experience, they learned about coral restoration efforts.
The Ritz-Carlton Spa: Showcasing a commitment to sustainable living, The Ritz-Carlton Spa features an organic body and skincare collection by Bamford. In 2024, its dedicated Ladies and Gentlemen at the spa have innovatively transformed coffee grounds into sustainable body scrubs for in-house guests, highlighting its ongoing dedication to environmentally friendly practices and wellness initiatives.
As part of the resort’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands will soon launch a Coral Adoption Project, enabling guests to contribute to initiatives aligned with its Community Footprints philosophy. Additionally, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is excited to introduce a new package featuring Saad Amer, the Sustainability Champion of the resort. This package will include educational and inspiring activities designed to deepen guests' understanding of the local climate and promote support for the surrounding community, ensuring that their holiday experience is both enriching and impactful.
For more information, visit ritzcarlton.com/Maldives, and for real-time updates, follow the resort on Instagram and Facebook.
The MICHELIN Guide’s inaugural hotel recognition programme, MICHELIN Keys, has awarded Two Keys to Banyan Tree Krabi, a luxury resort on tranquil Tubkaek Beach on the Andaman coast of Southern Thailand.
Photo credits: Banyan Tree Krabi
The French-based MICHELIN Guide, famed for its accreditation of “stars” to the most exquisite restaurants, has for the first time introduced a ranking system of “keys” to acclaim the most outstanding hotels in the world.
The 2024 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection in Thailand included a total of eight Three-Key hotels (its highest decoration), 19 Two-Key hotels, and 31 One Key hotels. Each hotel had been anonymously visited and assessed by MICHELIN inspectors. Banyan Tree Krabi was among only four resorts or hotels in the Krabi region decorated with a key award.
According to the MICHELIN Guide, distinction is based on five criteria: excellence in architecture and design; quality of service; overall personality and character; value for money; and meaningful contributions to the local community.
In addition, the prestigious French-based guide also recommended the resort’s spa, Banyan Tree Spa Krabi, as one of the seven “most luxurious” spas in Thailand.
Banyan Tree Spa Krabi’s signature experience is The Rainforest, the region’s first luxury hydrotherapy facility, described by the MICHELIN Guide as a place “where tropical serenity meets holistic wellness”.
“Dive into a luxurious hydrothermal circuit featuring a Rain Walk, Steam Room, Sauna, Ice Fountain, Vitality Pool, Outdoor Cold and Hot Plunge Pools, Jet Pool, and Heated Bed,” the MICHELIN Guide said. “Let the Tropical Rainmist take you away as the soothing Rain Shower helps you relax before an invigorating body scrub boosts your skin’s moisture. Experience true tranquillity as a skilled therapist works their magic, kneading away all your tension.”
The spa has eight private treatment rooms, each with a selection of “Colour-Calm” choices. The theory behind colour-calm therapy is that the spectrum of light carries electromagnetic energy, and therefore affects energy or chakras.
This month, Banyan Tree Spa Krabi introduced a new treatment idea for guests — complimentary weightless therapy classes.
Weightless therapy is a holistic technique that involves floating in water, whereby the buoyancy helps alleviate pain and stress. Also known as flotation therapy, this sensory deprivation treatment is renowned for inducing a state of deep relaxation.
At Banyan Tree Spa Krabi, trained therapists guide and glide their clients gently upon the water in one-on-one sessions usually lasting half an hour.
Photo credits: Banyan Tree Krabi
“Weightless therapy is an alternative way to heal your body and mind,” said Banyan Tree Spa Krabi Manager Ms Montira Vichiankoo. “The meditative state obtained by floating in the water helps us relax as well as exercising muscles, joints and bones.”
The new weightless therapy experience is just one of several innovations at the award-winning spa, a self-styled “Sanctuary for the Senses” that offers massage and wellbeing treatments, including traditional Thai and oil massages such as the Restorative Detox massage, a deep tissue technique designed to stimulate the body’s circulatory system. Alternatively, the Sleep Essentials massage is a unique ritual that brings the mind and body to a deep state of rest.
Each therapist at the resort has undergone intensive training at the Banyan Spa & Wellbeing Academy, which introduces students to its very own “8-Pillar Philosophy.”
The 8-Pillar Philosophy — involving the concepts of Connection, Growth, Groundedness, Nourishment, Rest, Movement, Practice, and Mindfulness — is also evident in Banyan Tree’s “Wellbeing Sanctuary” programme which was launched in 2021.
Setting aside a selection of suites dedicated to holistic and wellness pursuits, the “Wellbeing Sanctuary” provides guests with an opportunity to combine a leisure vacation with a daily itinerary designed to enrich mind, body and soul — from meditation to Thai boxing, from massage and hydrotherapy to nature trails and sailing lessons — complemented with a nutritious diet and personal consultations.
Located on a tranquil beachfront, and tiered into a lush hillside facing westward towards the Andaman Sea and the sunset, Banyan Tree Krabi has 72 pool suites and villas, among them seven two-bedroom options, one three-bedroom villa, and a majestic seven-bedroom Presidential Beachfront Pool Villa.
Facilities include two restaurants and a beach bar, a beach club, a kids’ club, a fitness centre, meeting rooms, and the aforementioned rainforest-themed spa.
For more information or reservations, contact +66 075 811 888 or email krabi@banyantree.com
