Coco Privé Private Island

Secluded, secret and serene, Coco Privé Kuda Hithi Island is one of the world’s most exclusive private islands and the pinnacle of the Coco Collection experience. There’s nowhere in the Maldives, or anywhere on earth, quite like Coco Privé; an entire island that is dedicated to you, your family and friends.

Every Coco Privé guest is given a totally individual experience, tailored to the finest detail. Before you even arrive, we get to know your likes, loves and longings; matching your exact needs with genuine local hospitality and inspirational moments.

Coco Privé aims to create a sense of intimacy and enjoyment for each and every guest. It is a personal and private space for the most discerning to enjoy and savour.

Kuda Hithi Island is the result of a remarkable collaboration between Coco Privé and award-winning architect Guz Wilkinson. Here, you will find luxurious living enhanced with every amenity imaginable and the discreet butler services of your personal host.

 

Hotel Jen Malé Maldives

 

Rebranded early 2015 as Hotel Jen Malé Maldives, former Trader Hotel Maldives, is located in the capital city Malé. The four-star hotel is less than 10 minutes speedboat ride away from Ibrahim Nasir international airport. The hotel’s location is ideal for travelers looking to be near the city centre and airport.

Hotel Jen is a diverse collection of hotels in the best locations across Asia Pacific, with a unique brand of style and service delivery designed to appeal to a ‘New Jeneration’ of travellers. The brand is the brainchild of virtual persona Jen, a professional hotelier and all-time lover of life, travel and discovery. To guests, Hotel Jen delivers quality, comfort, convenience and value with a twist. Jen cares about what really matters to guests – the important things done well; comfortable rooms and honest authentic service; respect, privacy and efficiency served without fuss or intrusion; cultural insights; interesting experiences; and fast, free WiFi everywhere, always. 

 

Dhaainkanbaa

This majestic vessel was named after the Queen of Maldives who ruled from 1384 to 1388 – Sultana Dhaainkan’baa Dhil Kilege Mahaarehendhi, to depict beauty and grandeur as the Queen herself.

Dhaainkanbaa promises to bring you a floating luxury of accommodation, service and cuisine that distinguishes it from any other.  This luxury cruise is also the winner of Floating Asia Awards in 2010. Double/Lower, Twin/Lower

Dhaainkan’baa offers seven cosy and inviting staterooms with extra spacious bathrooms (six doubles and one twin), expertly designed and exquisitely furnished for a relaxing time after a day of adventurous activity or slumbering in sweet dreams.

Naladhu Private Island Maldives

Located on the island of Veligandu Huraa in North Malé atoll, Naladhu Maldives is a 35-minute speedboat ride away from Ibrahim Nasir international airport. The luxury resort comes with a ‘House Master’. Naladhu’s location gives quick access to the nearby 20 world class dive sites and the resort is famous to spot green sea turtles.

MATATO Maldives Travel Awards 2015 Special Edition to be held in Dubai

After the successful Sounds of Maldives music series events in Kuda Bandos island (Maldives), Colombo, Kuala Lumpur and Bangalore, this year the event is set to take place at Dusit Thani Dubai on 5th May 2015 as the entertainment segment of MATATO Maldives Travel Awards 2015 Special Edition.

Maldives.com is the title sponsor of the Sounds of Maldives Dubai event and the associate media partner of MATATO Maldives Travel Awards 2015 and will be providing full coverage of the event.

Sounds of Maldives, Entertainment segment of MATATO Maldives Travel Awards 2015 Special Edition

While Sounds of Maldives brand has presented numerous Maldivian music artists including The 5, Umar, Esa, Unoosha, Barchie, Mira, Harubee, Mummu, Fa’thu, Nothnegal, 1 Knight Stand, Fasy, DJ Paiday, DJ Vifak, Furadhan, Ritte, Vunadhana Beru, Void Arcadium and Andhala, the upcoming edition will present Nothnegal, Fasy Live, Unoosha, Furashan and DJ Ali.

The event is organized by Highrise and GM Habeeba Hussain ensures that the brand will continue in other destinations promoting the Maldives with the talents we have got. “We believe that Highrise being an event management company, have made a lot of effort in promoting the destination and talents using our own brands”.

Ithaa Undersea Restaurant Celebrates 10th Anniversary

The world’s first undersea restaurant invites the world to celebrate the occasion on April 15, 2015 One decade ago, Ithaa Undersea Restaurant at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island was spectacularly ‘sunk’ five metres into the waters of the Indian ocean and ever since it’s been the mecca for lovers of food, culture and architecture the world over. To celebrate this momentous occasion, Conrad Maldives will be hosting a Twitter Chat on Wednesday April 15, 2015 which will take place at 3pm GMT (10am EST). Conrad Maldives Rangali Island invites the world to join the conversation and celebrate the birthday of this world famous dining location by sharing their memories of Ithaa on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Throughout the week of Ithaa’s birthday, users are invited to share their photos and memories using the hashtag #IthaaTurns10 users.

Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

Sitting like a pearl beneath the waves (Ithaa translates as ‘pearl’ in the Maldivian language of Dhivehi) the curved acrylic walls which give 180-degree panoramic views sets the trend for  unique dining. It became the world’s first aquarium-style undersea restaurant – indulging diners with stunning views of the surrounding lagoon, reefs and tropical fish. Consistently recognised as the most beautiful restaurant in the world, Ithaa is fast becoming a 21st Century travel icon, so it is no surprise it is regarded as one of the world’s most expensive and exclusive places to eat. “We are all excited to be celebrating the 10th anniversary of such an iconic restaurant” said Lyle Lewis, general manager, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. “I can think of no better way to celebrate such a momentous occasion than by sharing it with the whole world.” Envisioned by Mr. Ahmed Saleem of Crown Company PVT, owning company of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Mr. Saleem was inspired whilst travelling in Bali in 2001 and five years later Ithaa was brought to life by Mike Murphy of M J Murphy Limited in New Zealand who specialises in aquarium technology and at a cost of US $5 million, Ithaa took 85 tonnes of sand ballast (in sandbags) in order to be sunken onto the ocean bed. It wasn’t long before it became a cultural phenomenon and world-leader in beauty and cuisine that continues to intrigue and impress to this day. Program of Events

  • Memories of Ithaa – April 13-17, 2015

During the week of Ithaa’s 10th birthday, the resort will be posting content across its social media channels, inviting the world to share their memories of Ithaa and post photos on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

  • Ithaa’s 10th Birthday Twitter Chat at 3pm GMT (11am EST) on Wed April 15, 2015

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island (@ConradMaldives) invites the world to celebrate Ithaa’s 10th anniversary through a live Twitter Chat. This global discussion will encourage fans of Ithaa to share their memories, photos and stories of this world famous and iconic restaurant. Follow @ConradMaldives on Twitter and join the chat using #IthaaTurns10 on Wednesday April 15, 2015 at 3pm GMT/10am EST

  • Exclusive Winemaker Dinner presented by Château Margaux  – April 15, 2015

To coincide with the date the restaurant first opened its doors – April 15 – Ithaa will host a Château Margaux sommelier dinner. The unrivalled wine estate of Château Margaux dates back to the 17th Century and is renowned for its grapes as its prices. A bottle of 1787 Château Margaux was sold for $225,000 making it one of the world’s most expensive wines. This is the first time Château Margaux has been invited to host at Conrad Maldives. For more information about Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, visit www.conradhotels.com/maldives

Coco Collection holds Savour 2015

For food fanatics from around the world enjoying their luxurious stay at Coco Bodu Hithi in Maldives, Savour 2015 was a very literal taste of the good life. The event hosted by Coco Collection from 21st March to 3rd April saw Michelin Starred Chefs Frédéric Doucet, Nigel Haworth, Aktar Islam, Andrew Pern as well as Food & Beverage Specialist, Rogers Benham, who took turns to demonstrate master classes showcasing some of their signature dishes.

Soft shell crab, caraway tempura, south Indian tomato chutney, Chef Aktar Islam, Savour 2015
Soft shell crab, caraway tempura, south Indian tomato chutney, Chef Aktar Islam, Savour 2015
Tandoori, lamb cutlet, Chachumber salad, Chef Aktar Islam, Savour 2015
Tandoori, lamb cutlet, Chachumber salad, Chef Aktar Islam, Savour 2015
Mackerel, palm sugar and chili, Chef Aktar Islam, Savour 2015
Mackerel, palm sugar and chili, Chef Aktar Islam, Savour 2015
Chef Aktar Islam preparing a dish, Savour 2015
Chef Aktar Islam preparing a dish, Savour 2015
Chef Aktar Islam, Savour 2015
Chef Aktar Islam, Savour 2015

This was the first time such a sophisticated culinary event was held in the Maldives at such a grand scale and according to Coco Collection this event, which received overwhelming support, is going to become an annual event.

Chef Andrew Pern preparing Dressed King Crab with Green Herb Mayonnaise,Tomato & Basil Salad,Paramesan Crips, Bloody Mary Dressing, Savour 2015
Chef Andrew Pern preparing Dressed King Crab with Green Herb Mayonnaise,Tomato & Basil Salad,Paramesan Crips, Bloody Mary Dressing, Savour 2015
Breast of Duck with Candied Fennel, Cottage Cheese, Roast Peach, Yorkshire Relish, Chef Andrew Pern, Savour 2015
Breast of Duck with Candied Fennel, Cottage Cheese, Roast Peach, Yorkshire Relish, Chef Andrew Pern, Savour 2015

For the world renowned chefs and mixologist, most of whom are first timers in Maldives, it was love at first sight. The little paradise on earth is on the bucket lists of most people who dream of spending at least a few days enjoying the dreamy islands surrounded by white sandy beaches and vast turquoise lagoons. When asked about his experience in the Maldives, Chef Akhtar Islam remarked, “Since I landed here, I am in love and lost in Maldives!”-a view shared by the other chefs and mixologist as well. Thus the stunning island of Coco Bodu Hithi, which has a romantic and timeless charm, was the perfect setting for this amazing culinary experience. The master classes, dinners and cocktail parties were held at the 7 scenic indoor and outdoor restaurants and bars of the resort.

Chef Nigel Haworth preparing a dish, Savour 2015
Chef Nigel Haworth preparing a dish, Savour 2015
Warm Lobster Salad, Basil, Citrus, Champagne Dressing, Chef Nigel Haworth, Savour 2015
Warm Lobster Salad, Basil, Citrus, Champagne Dressing, Chef Nigel Haworth, Savour 2015
Chef Nigel Haworth, Savour 2015
Chef Nigel Haworth, Savour 2015

Prior to the event the General Manager at Coco Bodu Hithi, Georgiou Papazoglou said, “Coco Bodu Hithi has always been a haven for food aficionados and Savour 2015 offers an impressive lineup for our guests to indulge in world-class dining experiences throughout their stay. Holding true to our promise to offer an inspirational stay, this culinary journey will create moments to treasure for a lifetime.”

Overwater Villas, Coco Bodu Hithi
Overwater Villas, Coco Bodu Hithi

Savour 2015 was indeed a unique and rare experience for guests who not only got to taste delectable cuisines but interact with the world renowned chefs and learn some of their signature creations. Guests at Coco Bodu Hithi who were lucky enough to experience the culinary event were doubly sated. They enjoyed world-class food at one of the most luxurious and picturesque resorts in the beautiful Maldives.

Kurumba Maldives Celebrates Earth Hour

Kurumba Maldives will be celebrating Earth Hour, this Saturday 28th March from 20:30 pm to 21:30 pm, local time and contributing to the Earth Hour movement which unites people to take action for the planet and aims to raise awareness of climate change.

During this hour, Kurumba will partake in this movement by turning off air conditioning units and lighting in staff areas, as well as exterior signage lighting and use candlelight in public areas, restaurants and bars. In-house guests have been invited to participate and do the same in their rooms and villas.

The inaugural Earth Hour movement started in Sydney, Australia in 2007. Since then the event has become a worldwide movement. In 2014, a record 162 countries took part in Earth Hour 2014, showing a huge amount of support from the Maldives, to the UK and beyond. The switch offs start in Samoa and continue finishing eventually in Tahiti.

Jason Kruse, General Manager of Kurumba Maldives commented: “climate change is the one of the biggest environmental challenges our planet faces today, and is especially important in the fragile Maldives. As part of our Corporate Social Responsibility program, we will continue to make efforts to reduce energy consumption, use sustainable energy and protect our environment. Every small action can make a difference”.

Akon To Perform In Maldives This January

The Ministry of Tourism of the Maldives is organising a free concert in the capital city Malé for the 8th January with the acclaimed Senegalese-born and current US-based R&B and hip hop artist Akon.

The event was announced through a video message from Akon which was shown during the Tourist Arrival Countdown show held on New Year’s Eve where two Indian Bollywood musicians Salim – Sulaiman performed.

Salim - Sulaiman perfoming at National Football Stadium on New Year's Eve.
Salim – Sulaiman perfoming at National Football Stadium on New Year’s Eve. Photo credit: Haveeru

This is the second attempt by the four time grammy nominated artist to perform in the Maldives. The first attempt was in 2010 which was cancelled after the tickets were sold saying the technical assistance and security measures were not up to par.

The 2010 performance attempt was hugely opposed by the then Islamic Ministry and several religious groups. Speaking in response to public discord over two Indian musicians playing in the Maldives on New Year’s Eve and Akon’s performance scheduled for Thursday to the local daily newspaper Haveeru, Tourism Minister Adeeb said that foreign artists and musicians are invited to perform in the Maldives as a means to promote tourism and has nothing to do with religion and that they are simply a means to promote Maldives as a brand.

He also said “These shows are for promoting Maldives’ tourism. While the entire world has started to see Malé City as a lair that harbours members of the Islamic State or extremist militants, foreign artists performing here will show the world what the situation here is truly like. Maldives does not belong to the Islamic State.”

Pop/Dancehall/Reggae singer Sean Paul
Pop/Dancehall/Reggae singer Sean Paul

Akon’s announcement to perform in Maldives comes after Jamaican Grammy Award winning International star Sean Paul – who was supposed to perform during Tourism Arrival Countdown Show 2014 – cancelled at the last minute after a YouTube video was released threatening the artist with death if he performed in the Maldives.

Flavours from Down Under in Maldives Resorts

NEW LUXURY MALDIVES RESORTS HAVE A DISTINCTLY AUSTRALIAN FLAVOUR

“Our guests expect the unexpected. And that is exactly what we are aiming to deliver them”
Michael Flynn, Chairman of The Small Maldives Island Co.

The Small Maldives Island Co. will open two resorts in the Maldives over the next twelve months, both described by Chairman Michael Flynn as “Nu-luxury at its finest”. Located in the UNESCO protected Baa Atoll, Amilla Fushi will launch in December this year, followed by a luxury beach club concept resort called Finolhu late 2015.

Partner with The Small Maldives Island Co. in the venture is Coastline Maldives*, one of the Maldives’ largest private companies and developer of the new Baa Atoll airport.

While Amilla and Finolhu will capture the heart and spirit of the Maldives, there is an enormous Australian influence. Both Flynn and his partner Tom McLoughlin are Australian. However, they have a combined twenty five years experience in International hospitality and tourism; Flynn as senior hotel marketing executive for international hotel companies in Asia Pacific and Tom as the visionary behind the award winning Huvafen Fushi resort in the Maldives.

The highest profile Australian recruit is leading chef and long term Maldives visitor, Luke Mangan, who is eagerly looking forward to taking responsibility for food and beverage at both resorts as “island restaurateur”. “We will be a foam, gel and smear free zone, thank goodness” proclaimed Mangan. “We will have caviar and foie gras and truffles if people want them, but my goal is to deliver the opposite of overcomplicated and stuffy food”.

Ocean House, Amilla Fushi
Ocean House, Amilla Fushi

“It’s all about fabulous fresh produce. We’re blessed with local seafood. Fishermen will deliver straight from their boats to us and the lobster tank will actually be in the ocean under the signature restaurant Lonu. And we are planning to have the world’s best fish and chips at The Fish and Chip Shop in Baazaar”, he added.

“The Maldives has evolved into one of the most sought after luxury resort destinations where resorts have their own island and house reefs abound. It is evolving, however, from being a honeymoon destination to a haven for celebrities and high end families who want anonymity and true luxury for their holiday experiences” said Flynn.

“We are bespoke operators, exclusively in the Maldives. We understand the culture and want to give our guests a genuine Maldivian experience, but with an effortless, understated sense of luxury” said Director Tom McLoughlin.

“Think homes, not rooms or suites” added Flynn. “We are very excited about the uniqueness of the accommodation at Amilla. You can buy a home here with a fifty year lease, or, for a slightly shorter stay there are beach, lagoon, ocean lagoon and ocean reef houses, plus twelve metre high tree houses, all with private pools”. The words Amilla Fushi which are Maldivian for ‘my island home’ are the central theme of the resort. All room categories from one to six bedrooms are designated ‘homes’ as even the smallest accommodation is 200sq metres of space, while the largest is a remarkable 3000 sq metres.

Rates start at $2,000 per night at Amilla. Over a dozen airlines fly to Male from Australia and the breathtaking sea plane flight to Baa Atoll Airport takes just twenty minutes.

http:/www.facebook.com/amillafushi

*Coastline Maldives – supplying and building Maldives history for over twenty years. Developing and investing in Maldives future – airports, resorts and energy.

For further information, please contact:

Brooke Tabberer
TABBERER TERAKES
Tel: +61 409 844 467
Email: [email protected]