HotelTravel.com's Top 10 Reasons to Visit the Maldives

HotelTravel.com recently completed its customer survey of the most romantic holiday choices on the planet with the Maldives taking top honours.

HotelTravel.com Chief Information Officer, Olivier Dombey said the island nation was unique, both as one of the world's most beautiful destinations and in the government's progressive environmental awareness and tourism development policies.

"Besides being one of the most romantic places on the planet, the Maldives' government has been a global leader in eco-friendly tourism development for several decades. Travellers looking for green holiday options should give a holiday in the Maldives serious consideration."

"From key feeder markets like Singapore, Hong Kong and other Asian countries it is also a short-haul flight, greatly reducing the carbon footprint of air travel."

"And HotelTravel.com is pleased to now be able offer its customers instant confirmation for selected international chain hotels operating resorts in the Maldives," Mr Dombey added.

HotelTravel.com's Top 10 reasons to visit the Maldives include some of the world's most environmentally friendly travel tips:

1. Sink or Swim
Obviously there is plenty of time to plan a holiday before any of the 1,192 low-lying coral islands of the Maldives are potentially submerged by global warming. The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change believes that sea levels are likely to rise about 80 centimetres by 2100. To draw attention to the threat of global warming, Maldivian President Mohammed Nasheed and 13 other government officials took a dive in October 2009 (literally - holding a cabinet meeting 6 metres under the sea). He has also promised to make the Maldives, with a population of 350,000, the world's first carbon-neutral nation within a decade.

2. Surf's Up
The Maldives is known as one of the best kept secrets in surfing. Limited crowds, great varieties of reef breaks, and some of the most perfectly shaped waves make this place any surfer's fantasy. And your Mum won't worry about you getting hurt while surfing there, because Maldivian waves lack the power that makes other locations so dangerous. Not only will you safely enjoy the surf, but also appreciate the glass-clear water while catching that barrel. Surfing in the Maldives is like riding through an underwater aquarium.

3. 'Bromance' Her
For those who fail to clearly understand this wordplay on romance, it is best to turn to the ancient Greeks for inspiration. Fortunately Aristotle actually described a concept similar to 'bromance' as early as 300 BC, writing: "It is those who desire the good of their friends for the friend's sake that are most truly friends, because each loves the other for what he is, and not for any incidental quality". Simply put, the Maldives is one of the most romantic destinations on the planet. So for those planning a honeymoon or looking to re-light passion's fire, the Maldives is tops for lovers.

4. Reefer Madness
Divers who come to the Maldives in search of sharks will not be disappointed. Thousands of dive tourists visit each year with just that single minded purpose: to catch a glimpse of one of the 26 species of sharks, including the popular reef shark, native to the waters of the Maldives. Sounds crazy? Just log on to YouTube and check out this unique form of underwater madness. Perhaps it is not everyone's cup of tea, but a thrill a minute for those who like to sink their teeth into it.

5. Resort Nirvana
The Maldives government allows only one resort per island by law, and all new hotels must be built to a very high environmental standard. The result is some of the most secluded, intimate, luxurious and exclusive resorts in the world. Hotels in Maldives can also be tough to book directly, so have HotelTravel.com do the work for you. North Male Atoll Hotels, South Ari Atoll Hotels, North Ari Atoll Hotels, Lhaviyani Atoll Hotels, South Male Atoll Hotels, Baa Atoll Hotels or Addu Atoll Hotels are all worth a look. And not every resort is priced over US$1,000 per night either; so consider Komandoo Resort (from US$ 179 per night), J Resort Raalhuveli (from US$ 275 per night), Kuramathi Cottage & Spa (from US$ 338 per night) or the Veligandu Island Resort (from US$ 340 per night).***

6. Stuff Yer Face
The food in the Maldives is some of the freshest, most exotic seafood found anywhere in the world. Here visitors can literally feast nightly on lobster, scallops, octopus, squid, tuna and anything else that swims with a tail cooked in every imaginable way. Burp. The Asian flavours of the islands often involve curry, coconut, and other exotic spices. In the Maldives they serve things cooked in ways most people have never heard of or much less eaten. So when on holiday, don't be shy, get it down yer neck.

7. Sunset Arm Curls
After dark, life in the Maldives slows down considerably and not a whole lot goes on. So, make the most of sunset. Find a good spot overlooking the ocean, reach for a frosty ice-cold beverage of choice and watch as the sun starts to burn a hole into the ocean. One of the most spectacular things (and one of the few things you won't be charged for) about the Maldives are the awesome sunsets.

8. Liveaboard Dive Safaris
The Maldives is one of the world's best dive destinations. One of the more extravagant ways to experience scuba diving in the Maldives is from a liveaboard safari. This way, you spend a week or two weeks cruising around all the islands on a hip, modern safari boat with all the creature comforts needed. Every day, roll out of bed, stumble topside and fall in the water and dive, dive and dive again. It eliminates the annoying commute from resorts to dive sites then back again and offers a floating hotel should global warming actually kick in (see 'Sink or Swim').

9. Island Hopping
With over 200 uninhabited islands, Maldives offers visitors a pure Robinson Crusoe experience for those seeking a personal piece of paradise. And inter-island travelling on local transport offers surprisingly good value-for-money. The local boats called 'dhonies' are the best bet. A ferry, costing less than a dollar per head, is another option to travel between Hulhulé Island, where the international airport is, and Malé. Always remember that the Maldives is an Islamic country and nudity is strictly prohibited. Tourists are requested to wear clothes that cover thighs and upper body while visiting inhabited islands. Beachwear and swimsuits are allowed in the resort islands.

10. Chillax
Why not do a whole lot of nothing, just chill and relax in this beautiful tropical paradise?

HotelTravel.com

Honolulu's Sallas captures world longboard tour finale in Maldives

Kai Sallas of Honolulu won the Oxbow ASP World Longboard Tour Maldives contest today.

The final day of the contest was run in 2- to 3-foot waves at Pasta Point, Chaaya Island, Maldives.

Sallas won three heats today, including a victory over newly-crowned world champion Harley Ingleby of Australia in the final.

"I'm so stoked to win this event, the waves have been super fun all week and to beat Harley in the final capped off a perfect week for me," Sallas said.

Sallas received a score of 7.75 (out of 10) early in the final heat and never relinquished the lead. His two best waves scored a total of 15.65 points to top Ingleby's total of 14.0.

Sallas received $10,000 for the win.

The contest was the final stop on the 2009 ASP World Longboard Tour. Ingleby clinched the 2009 world title after he won his quarterfinal heat.

Sallas finished the year ranked No. 2 to lead four Hawai'i surfers in the top 10. Hale'iwa's Bonga Perkins, the 2008 world champion, finished No. 5. Ned Snow of the Big Island is No. 6, and Duane DeSoto of 'Ewa is No. 8.

Sallas defeated Snow in the semifinals of today's contest.

Maldives tourist arrival for Sept exceeds Ministries estimation

The tourist arrival to Maldives for the month of September of 2009 exceeded by 3.9 percent of government’s estimation, revealed a statistical report compiled by the Ministry of Tourism.

According to the report till September of this year, a total of 465,839 tourists arrived in Maldives. This is 0.6% less than the number of tourist arrivals in September of last year and 8 percent less the number of tourist arrivals till September of last year.

It further said that even though overall tourist arrivals from Europe to Maldives has decreased, the number of tourists from Portugal, Switzerland, Germany, France, Greece and Hungary has increased and also the number of tourists coming from Asia has increased comparatively.

The ministry has further revealed that deliberations were in progress with concerned government authorities to introduce wedding tourism in Maldives to further boost tourism and economy of the country.

miadhu.com.mv

One&Only Reethi Rah Participated in the 350 Global Campaign

One&Only Reethi Rah, Maldives was delighted to participate in the International Day of Climate Action, 350 Campaign on 19 October.

Executive Committee of the Resort, Senior Management and other Team Members participated in the event which was conducted for one hour in the Staff Beach area.

Event started with a valuable speech from the General Manager of the Resort, Stephan Killinger followed by an introduction of the event from the event organizing committee. In the GM’s speech he highlighted the importance of focusing on environmental issues and contribute on a resort level to minimize the environmental hazards that Maldives is facing currently.

General Manager and Department Heads signed the 350 banner followed by many Team Members who have gathered to participate in the event. After signing the banner, organizing committee took the banner to the lagoon whereby a group picture was taken to show our interest on saving the planet from various environmental hazards.

We are also delighted that One&Only Reethi Rah will be going for Green Globe Certification towards the First Quarter of 2010, which shows the importance that One&Only Reethi Rah is giving for environmental issues.

British Airway’s maiden flight to Maldives arrives today

The British Airways first flight to Maldives will arrive in Male International Airport, Hulhule , today (26th Oct 2009).

The flight arriving today will be bringing 272 tourists to Maldives and according to Sunland work is underway to give a very warm welcome to these tourists. British Airways will operate a thrice weekly flight from Gatwick (London Gatwick Airport, the second largest international airport in UK after Heathrow) in to Male’. Maldives Promotion Board said that the Board will coordinate with MNCC to organize some cultural activities at the airport to welcome the new arrivals from British Airways.

Since the largest number of tourist arrival to Maldives is from UK, with the inauguration of British Airways, the problem of transiting in other airports will be solved. Besides this an opportunity will also be opened to export fresh fish from Maldives to UK and EU.

Flights to the Maldives will depart from Gatwick on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday at 7:10pm returning from Male’ on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 1:20pm local time.

miadhu.com.mv

Coral Garden to be created in Bodu Hithi

Coco Palm Bodu Hithi management has said that work is underway to create a coral garden in the reef of the resort.

The resort said that just as other reefs in Maldives, Coco Palm at Bodu Hithi was also facing the problem of coral deaths and that since tourists were coming to Maldives to see under waster life, the management was prepared to make a coral garden.

They will be bringing in marine biologists to do this work.

Coco Palm was one of the resorts in Maldives that carried out numerous activities to mark 350 on Saturday. From the time Maldivian cabinet went underwater on 17 October till the 24th October, this resort had carried out many activities to mark International Day of climate Action. Some of these activities were cutting off electricity for about half an hour every day from 17th October till 24th October, using candle lights for dinner every night of the week and planting 350 trees.

According to the management they plan to carry out similar activities in the future as well.

miadhu.com.mv

Oxbow WLT Maldives to decide 2009 World Champion

Chaaya Island/Dhonveli Maldives - An idyllic setting and perfect waves at Pasta Point in the Maldives set the scene for the final event of the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) Oxbow World Longboard Tour for 2009.

As the second and final event to the 2009 ASP Oxbow World Longboard Tour, this event will decide the 2009 ASP World Longboard Champion.

All 32 surfers competing in the event have arrived and are warming up in excellent three-to-four foot (1 – 1.5 metre) surf at Pasta Point.

Australia’s Harley Ingelby, the current leader on the 2009 ASP World Longboard season ratings, has been here for three days and has already spent many hours in the water familiarizing himself with the wave in hopes of giving himself the best chance to win this year’s ASP World Longboard Title.

“Awesome waves here and I’m really enjoying surfing,” Ingelby said. “As far as the world title goes, I’m only thinking about surfing heat-by-heat and simply treating this as another important ASP event. The ratings will take care of themselves, I just have to surf my best and try and win.”

Defending ASP World Longboard Champion, Bonga Perkins (Hawaii), is currently in third position on the ratings, and on a two-event series, has every chance of adding another title to his already impressive two ASP World Longboard Titles (1996, 2008).

“The world title is there to be won and that’s what I’m here for,” Perkins said. “There’s all sorts of equations as to how to win and I’m here to defend my title and if that means making the Final and winning the event then that’s what I’ll try and do. The waves are super fun, incredibly warm water and I’ve enjoyed surfing the last two days. I’m ready to go.”

Among the world’s elite of longboarding visiting the Maldives, the title contenders from the Oxbow team include Antoine Delpero (FRA), Duane de Soto (HAW), Ben Skinner (GBR), Eduardo Bagé (BRA), Matthew Moir (RSA) and Bryce Young (AUS).


Being a two-event series for 2009, there is a strong possibility that the No. 1 position on the ratings could be tied after this event and if that is the case, a surf-off will occur at this event.

ASP Tour Manager Al Hunt outlined the plans for this situation today.

“With two events of identically-rated events to decide the ASP World Longboard Title for 2009, there’s a big possibility of a first place tie and if that happens we’ll run a special Final here to determine the World Title,” Al Hunt, ASP World Longboard Tour Manager, said. “It’s a situation that will only be applied for 1st place on the ratings and we’ll determine how that final would be run if and when it’s required at the end of this event.”

The event will be live web via www.aspworldtour.com and with excellent swell running today it looks very much like round one action will commence early tomorrow morning.


OXBOW ASP WORLD LONGBOARD TOUR MALDIVES ROUND 1 MATCH-UPS:
Heat 1: Colin McPhillips (USA) vs. Dylan Macleod (ZAF)
Heat 2: Bryce Young (AUS) vs. Kai Sallas (HAW)
Heat 3: Carlos Bahia (BRA) vs. Sam Bleakley (GBR)
Heat 4: Eduardo Bage (BRA) vs. Nobuhiro Ogashira (JPN)
Heat 5: Duane De Soto (HAW) vs. Troy Mothershead (USA)
Heat 6: Ned Snow (HAW) vs. Tony Silvagni (USA)
Heat 7: Ben Skinner (GBR) vs. Alexis Deniel (FRA)
Heat 8: Bonga Perkins (HAW) vs. Mitch Surman (AUS)
Heat 9: Harley Ingleby (AUS) vs. Justin Bing (ZAF)
Heat 10: Keegan Edwards (HAW) vs. Jared Neal (AUS)
Heat 11: Phil Rajzman (BRA) vs. Cole Robbins (USA)
Heat 12: Taylor Jensen (USA) vs. Jaime Viudes (BRA)
Heat 13: Antoine Delpero (FRA) vs. Taiki Mori (JPN)
Heat 14: Alex (Picuruta) Salazar (BRA) vs. Josh Constable (AUS)
Heat 15: Matthew Moir (ZAF) vs. Remi Arauzo (FRA)
Heat 16: Amaro Matos (BRA) vs. Jeremias Silva (BRA)

For more information, log onto www.aspworldtour.com

Oman Air makes its maiden flight to Maldives

National Airline of Oman, Oman Air made its maiden flight to Maldives yesterday.

The flight which took off from Muscat, capital city of Oman, brought tourists from Germany, France and 81 other tourists from various Middle Eastern countries.

Oman Air will take pilgrims from Sisilfaru Hajj Group to Saudi Arabia for this year’s Hajj.

The four weekly flights to both Maldives and Sri Lanka by Oman Air was initially scheduled to be inaugurated on the 10 October of this year using its brand new fleet of Airbus A330 aircraft but was delayed as they were unable to secure approval from Sri Lankan authorities.

Oman Air currently operates direct international flights to major Gulf destinations such as Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai, Jeddah, Kuwait and Riyadh from Muscat. The airline also flies to ten destinations in India – Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Hyderabad, Delhi, Lucknow, Bangalore, Kozhikode and Jaipur. Oman Air flies to Chittagong in Bangladesh and Karachi, London, Bangkok, Cairo, Beirut and Amman.

miadhu.com.mv

Sharks worth more in the water than on a plate

Sharks are worth far more to the Australian economy alive than they are on a platter served up with chips or as a filling ingredient in soup, WWF-Australia said today.

"Shark tourism is a growing phenomenon but unfortunately shark populations are not," said WWF- Australia's Reef to Rangelands Policy Manager Nick Heath.

"Shark populations are at dangerously low levels in parts of the Great Barrier Reef, with estimations placing reef shark populations at 3 to 12 per cent of their original size in some 'regular use' areas.

"This is simply not good enough. We must do more to protect these top predators from disappearing on our watch, if not for the benefit of the environment, then at least for the benefit of the back pocket."

A recent James Cook University study funded by the Marine and Tropical Sciences Research Facility found potential shark sightings to be a major drawcard to the diving sector, with tourists willing to pay thousands of dollars to see a shark in its natural environment.

The study found the average live-aboard dive passenger spent at least $5,000 while in the Cairns / Port Douglas area of Far North Queensland, with many attracted to the region by the opportunity to view sharks in the wild.

The researchers estimated up to 25 per cent (or $1,375) of each visitor's expenditure was directly attributable to the opportunity to see sharks.

Internationally, similar results have been recorded. A study in the Maldives - a popular tourist and diving destination in the Indian Ocean - estimated the value of one grey reef shark to be worth US$3,300 per year to the Maldivian tourism industry as opposed to the one-off value of US$32 to a fisherman.

"A guaranteed shark sighting is worth its weight in gold to the tourism industry," Mr Heath said.

"It is believed up to 500,000 divers photograph and swim with sharks every year. Not only are shark sightings considered to be one of the most significant of all wildlife interactions but the predator's presence at the top of the food chain is critical to ensuring a healthy and sustainable marine environment."

The JCU research found divers most wanted to see a hammerhead shark in the wild, followed by the whale shark and tiger shark.

Sharks are under particular threat due to their conservative life history traits which are characterised by slow growth rates, late sexual maturity, long gestation periods and birthing only a few young at a time.

They are also particularly threatened by overfishing, accidental bycatch and habitat loss.

fto.co.za

Maldives Cabinet Holds Underwater Meeting

First Holiday Inn Resort to open in The Maldives

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) on 15th October 2009 announced that it has signed an agreement with Leisure Holidays Private Limited (LHPL), a Hotel Properties Limited (HPL) Group company, to takeover on 1 November 2009 and re-brand Kandooma Maldives to Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma.

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma is the first Holiday Inn Resort in the Republic of Maldives, and will be the second Holiday Inn property in the Republic to carry the look-and-feel and service standards of the refreshed Holiday Inn brand.

LHPL, the owning company of Kandooma Maldives, is a subsidiary of HPL. HPL is listed on Singapore Exchange Limited (SGX), and its principal businesses include hotel ownership and management, property development and investments.

"This partnership gives us the opportunity to begin a relationship with IHG. We are confident of the strength of the new Holiday Inn brand, and believe the new Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma will provide a unique guest experience in this segment of the Maldives market," said Stephen Lau, Chairman of HPL Hotels & Resorts Pte Ltd and Executive Director of HPL.

The 160-room resort is built on Kandooma Island in the South Malé Atoll, which lies 35 km south of Malé International Airport, via a forty minute speedboat ride.

Kandooma Island is a favoured tropical isle because of its close proximity to many excellent dive sites. The Kandooma Channel, Kandooma Caves and Kandooma ‘Thila' (an undersea mount) dive sites all contribute to making the island one of the Republic's most sought after destinations for divers.

The Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma will feature villas with great sea or garden views and extensive food & beverage options. This includes a specialty restaurant with Mediterranean-Thai cuisine, a well stocked wine room, and a rooftop lounge serving tapas.

Sports and recreational facilities at the resort include the Dive Centre, Kandooma Kids' Club, full spa services at the COMO Shambala Spa and 3 radio channels with resident radio DJs. Guests can also enjoy activities such as dolphin watching, windsurfing, snorkelling, guided kayak safaris, and underwater hockey.

"This partnership is both a fantastic opportunity for IHG to build a relationship with a partner like HPL and to introduce a brand-defining resort property under the new Holiday Inn brand. I have every confidence that guests will enjoy the facilities and service experience at the Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma, which will be a refreshing new hotel option in the Maldives," said Jan Smits, Managing Director, IHG Asia Australasia.

ihgplc.com

Maldives Traveller 2010 Released

'Maldives Traveller 2010 Edition' has released at JATA World Travel Fair on 18th September 2009 in Tokyo, Japan.

'Maldives Traveller' is annually published premier guide for people eager to explore the Maldives with its unique Resort Islands, history, culture, people and attractions. Breathtaking locations across the country and stunning photography make Maldives Traveller the authority in its field.

The 'Holiday in the Maldives' section provides information how to spend a holiday in the Maldives, well-known surf breaks, diving guide with most popular dive sites and commonly seen fish by diving and snorkeling. 'Maldives Resort Catalogue' covers all the resorts in the Maldives. The Resort feature quick reference box in Premium Plus and Premium List resorts contain location map, room categories and icons denoting which resorts good for; Honeymoon, Wedding Ceremonies, Diving, Snorkeling, Surfing, Business, Family and Spa relaxation. 'The Total Guide' section highlights its history, culture, festivals, Maldivian way of life, attractions and sights to see in capital Male' and the Atolls.

And plus the English language version has 'Maldives Traveller Community’, which includes, letters from readers, expert answers for travel questions, industry headline news, Exiting coral growth project coverage, talk on early days of Maldives tourism and current trends, little bit history of how the guest houses started in 1972, recommendation for hideaway seekers, tale from real traveller, Tourism Minister’s view on Maldives tourism etc.

'Maldives Traveller' is available through its partners and distributors worldwide and as well online on www.maldives-shopping.com
Tropical Paradise has started publishing Maldives guides by educating travellers’ needs since 2002. Now these guides are available in seven different languages, English, Japanese, Russian, Italian, German, French and Chinese.

visitmaldives.com

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa tops the competition

Sheraton Maldives Places First in Both Classical and Flair Bartender of the Year Cocktail Competition
Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa is proud to announce that two of their associates have received the top honours at the SIMDI - Bacardi/ Marie Brizzard Classical and Flair Bartender of the Year Cocktail Competition on Tuesday, 6 October 2009. Both Rajandra Joshi and Argus Setiawan, won first place in the Classical & Flair categories respectively. Ruwan Dinesh also received an Honorable Mention in the Classical Category. This marks the first time that the resort and bartenders have entered the competition making this an unforgettable achievement for all.

• Rajandra Joshi - Cinnamon Sunrise, winning cocktail of classical category (Cinnamon stick, Bacardi Gold, Apricod Brandy, Martini Rosso)
• Argus Setiawan - Lady Pick, winning cocktail of flair category (Bacardi, Gallino, Blue Curacao, Fresh Orange Juice) Juggled, tossed, twirled and even danced his way to the top!
• Ruwan Dinesh - Blue Horizon (Bacardi, Blue Curacao, Southern Comfort, Fresh Orange & Honey Melon Juice)

Rajendra and Argus will receive sponsorship to participate in the John White Elite Bar Management course in Singapore, which is conducted by the International Bartender Association. They will also be given an opportunity to take part in the annual Classical & Flair Bartender of the Year (Asia Pacific Region) competition in Singapore
The local event featured a two-day training course on spirits, cocktails and general bar procedures. The competition was held on the last day of the programme, 06 October 2009. The awards ceremony and cocktail party was hosted by Hulehule Island Hotel and attended by General Managers, Food & Beverage Executives and all participants and supporters.
"The whole resort is very proud of Rajendra & Argus. It only highlights how Sheraton provides the best cocktails and entertainment to our guests. The effort they have put in for this competition is highly appreciated," said Brian Segrave, Complex General Manager of Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa and W Retreat & Spa - Maldives. "With the rebranding of Sheraton in December 2008, I believe this also shows how far we have come to achieve the standard that will position Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa one of the best upscale resorts in the Maldives. I would really like to recognize all the effort the team has put in and this is certainly a fascinating evening."
Dining & Entertainment at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa
In the ongoing commitment to providing exceptional guest experience, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa also offers various dining experiences and entertainment options for the guests on top of the 8 distinct restaurants and bars, guests can spend an evening with a special seafood menu, show their talent at the karaoke bar, or listen to live music over a few of their favourite drinks under the stars. For more active options, guests can play volleyball with the management team and have a bon fire beach party, or visit the dance floor while the DJ mixes up disco music with some Maldivian cultural performance.
Reservations at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa can be made via www.sheraton.com/maldivesfullmoon.
etravelblackboardasia.com

Live at Huvafen Fushi: Hôtel Costes 12 Asia launch tour by Stephane Pompougnac

The Hôtel Costes series is more than ever a reference to Parisian luxury and refinement. Having sold almost four million albums globally with each volume sparking a new frenzy amongst fans, this November 26th, Stéphane Pompougnac launches Hôtel Costes 12 'live' at the über-chic Huvafen Fushi Maldives by Per AQUUM.

Hôtel Costes has become a respected legacy in music with Stéphane selecting the best of cool and inventive music for every volume. As for his 'live' shows, "spinning in New York, Madrid, Sao Paolo, and Bangkok gives me great joy, but when at Huvafen Fushi in the Maldives, it's a totally different feeling like nowhere else," says Pompougnac. His first visit was last year in conjunction with the launch of Hôtel Costes 11 which saw guests dancing under the moonlit sky with the Indian Ocean as a backdrop.

In between his resident gigs at Hôtel Costes, you might find him playing at Estella Warren's birthday party in New York or at Club Indochine in Zurich for Christy Turlington. Pompougnac also spins for Les Venues de la Mode, the fashion equivalent of the Oscars, and is DJ to a select few - having been chosen by Nicole Kidman to play at Cannes for the release of "Moulin Rouge"; performing at Cameron Diaz's former restaurant, the Bamboo Bar, in Miami, as well as at the London premier of 'Ali'. He has remixed tracks for Madonna on her 'Ray of Light' album and REM lead singer, Michael Stipe volunteered to sing on Pompougnac's 2003 release.

Stéphane Pompougnac will be closing the 2009 Huvafen Fushi Dream Calendar, which, over the last three years, has evolved to become a one of its kind experience in the Maldives. To date, the award winning retreat has hosted renowned DJs, Spa Gurus, Artists, Winemakers, Designers and Chef's alongside music makers such as Claude Challé and Ravin (the movers behind the Buddha-bar album series) as well as José Padilla from the sunset charged Café Del Mar albums.

For 2010, Huvafen Fushi, has already locked down some of the most talented icons out there. Look out for Terry Kvasnik, martial artist and choreographer fresh from Britney Spears' The Circus tour; Jemma Rivera, Qi Gong expert; Milan Josipovic, fashion photographer, and the most anticipated icon of the year, France' #1 Male Electronic Artist, Martin Solveig!

Nestled within its very own private lagoon, Huvafen Fushi is the Maldives' most stylish resort. Literally translated as 'Dream Island', the island showcases the world's first underwater spa, gourmet cuisine and 43 'island chic' bungalows each boasting a vast private plunge pool and every conceivable luxury.

To enjoy chic Parisian vibes on tropical shores, please call +960 6644 222 or e mail info@huvafenfushi.com for more information.

etravelblackboard.com

Maldives to campaign for "New7Wonders of Nature"

Maldivian Vice President Mohamed Waheed on Thursday officially started government offices' voting campaign for the Maldives in its bid to become one of the New7Wonders of the Nature.

Waheed said at a function held at the President's Office in Male that making the Maldives to the list of New7Wonders of Nature was linked to the long-term survivability of the Maldives, according to a statement issued on the official website of the President's Office.

The vice president said becoming one of the seven wonders of nature will draw the world's attention and interest to the country, as well as enhance the country's popularity as a tourist destination.

The cabinet decided on Tuesday to pull its weight to garner votes for the Maldives in the New7Wonders of Nature competition.

The Maldives, which is famous for its natural beauty, is one of the most ecologically vulnerable countries in the world.

Scientists warned that the country would be rendered almost entirely uninhabitable by a rise in sea levels of one meter.

Its effort to become one of the new seven wonders of nature therefore is a global climate-change "consciousness-raising" exercise, officials said.

New7Wonders of Nature is a contemporary effort to create a list of seven natural wonders chosen by people through a global poll.

It is being organized by the New7Wonders Foundation, a Swiss-based, government-controlled foundation.

news.xinhuanet.com

Maldivian divers to make human 350 underwater

Maldives Divers Association has said that to mark International Day of Climate Action and the 350 campaign, they will be organizing a special dive where 350 divers will arrange themselves in the shape of the number 350 with coloured lights underwater. This particular event will take place at 0350 in the afternoon on 24th October.

According to MDA, they will begin their 24 hour dive event at midnight 1200 and will take place in front of the President’s Office.

International Day of Climate Action will be marked all over the world by governments, NGOs, International Organizations and even individuals. So far 144 countries are participating a total of 1853 activities have been organized to be carried out on this day.

To get the latest information on 350, you can sms 350 to the number 9900350 and you will get the latest update on events organized for 24th October.

The aim of marking International Day of Climate Action is to spread a message to the world to reduce the carbon emissions to 350 from its present 383 level.

miadhu.com.mv

Coco palm to organize dive to participate in 350 event

Coco palm resort has said that they will be participating in the event to mark 350 in Maldives. At about the same time Maldives cabinet meeting takes place underwater, tourists and employees of Coco Palm Dhunikolhu and Coco Palm Bodu Hithi will participate in a dive.

Speaking to Miadhu, a senior official from Coco Palm said that they were organizing this because tourism field is very much related to the environment. It is also done to show respect to the government’s work and commitment to the cause of global warming.

He also said that he believed Coco Palm was popular among tourists because of their resort gives priority to environmental protection and they intend to carry out similar activities in the future.

miadhu.com.mv

Oman Air forced to delay Maldives, Sri Lanka launch

Oman Air said on Thursday it was having to postpone the launch of its four weekly flights to the Maldives and Sri Lanka due to a delay in winning approval from Sri Lanka.

Oman Air planned to inaugurate services on October 10 providing scheduled passenger and cargo air services as part of its international expansion programme using a new fleet of Airbus A330 aircraft.

Barry Brown, Oman Air's chief commercial officer said: "We are extremely disappointed to announce this delay caused by the inability to secure approval from the Sri Lankan Authorities. As a result we plan to inaugurate services to both Sri Lanka and the Maldives with effect from October 17."

arabianbusiness.com

Maldives cabinet to go underwater

The government of the Maldives is to hold a cabinet meeting underwater to highlight the threat of global warming.

President Mohamed Nasheed and his cabinet will sign a document during the 17 October dive, calling for global cuts in carbon emissions.

An adviser to the president told the BBC the dive was "a bit of fun" but the cabinet intended to send a serious message about rising sea levels.

The low-lying island nation says it faces being wiped out if oceans rise.

The adviser, who asked not to be named, said ministers would communicate during the meeting using hand signals and waterproof boards and pens.

"Obviously the hand signals that divers can use are limited, so the amount of work the cabinet are going to get done will be limited," he said.

"But they will call on all nations - rich and poor, developed and developing - to take climate change seriously."

All cabinet members bar one - who has a medical condition that rules out diving - have been in training at a military base on one of the country's many islands.

Mr Nasheed, who is already a qualified diver, will also hold a press conference in the water.

While underwater, the government will sign a document ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen in December, calling on all nations to cut down their carbon emissions.

World leaders at the summit are aiming to create a new agreement to replace the 1997 Kyoto Protocol, which expires in 2012.

'Friendly' sharks

The dive is being held to mark the 350 International Day of Climate Change Action on 24 October.

The day's organisers say they want to highlight the risks of rising carbon in the atmosphere and encourage world leaders to commit to reducing carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere to 350 parts per million.

That is the amount some scientists say is the safe upper limit to avoid irreparable damage to the environment.

Some 80% of the Maldives archipelago is less than a metre above sea level and is extremely vulnerable to any rise in sea levels as a result of global warming melting the polar ice caps.

Officials say that by the time the Maldives feels the full effect of climate change, it will be too late to save other countries.

Mr Nasheed has warned that the entire nation may have to find a new home if the oceans rise as predicted by the UN.

The president's adviser told the BBC that although the country's government was almost all going to be underwater at the same time, there was no real danger.

Each minister will be accompanied by a diving instructor and a military minder and the local sharks were "friendly", he said.

news.bbc.co.uk

Coco Palm Dhunikolhu vying for more awards

Coco Palm Dhunikolhu Resort’s heart is environment and the resort is strongly committed to maintaining it as a model of environment friendly resort, says it General Manager Phillippe. The GM said so when asked how much they are committed and working to address the growing threats of environment through their resort.

He said they will give every consideration to preserving and protecting the environment in the development and management of Coco Palm Resort. ” Environment is our heart, we will do everything on our part for protecting and nourishing the environment, All our staff have been told, trained and reminded about this priority. We have initiated a number of programs towards achieving this objective”, he explained.

Coco Palm Resort has already won the Environment Bronze Award given by the Government, which has motivated them deeply, and they are now working to achieve higher awards. Mr. Phillipe remarked on the unique natural beauty of the Maldives which he said is a great blessing, the beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, marine gardens with so many varieties fish, corals and species, he said. He stated it is the responsibility of everyone, let alone the resorts, to keep the Maldives beautiful, unspoilt, and safe.

Here he touched on the dire need of creating more awareness and responsibility among people to love and care the environment by empowering them and making them feel more about their ownership of the beautiful reefs, sea, sand and islands they are blessed with. ” People can make and bring change. They are rightful owners of these islands and surrounding unique beauties. So they have to be informed, involved and encouraged to love and care this rich and beautiful environment, he said. He stated Coco Palm is one of the partners who are working along side a program dedicated to conserving the islands, reefs, lagoons and other ecosystems of Baa Atoll.

The GM said because of their environment friendly policy and management coupled with the warm hospitality of the resort, they are getting more guests and there are many repeaters among them. Encouraged by the commitment and policies of the Government, Coco Palm is making every effort to carefully implement the policies, while the guests visitng the resort also give their maximum care to the natural environment.

Mr. Phillippe, however sounded very concerned about the careless and irresponsible way some people treat the reefs coral and other ecosystems, he mentioned the problem of throwing waste and garbage to the sea, some of tem often contining harmful objects. He said urgent action is needed to change their attitudes and behaviours. Citing the seas in the Maldives as a very rich and unique natural aquarium, the Coco Palm GM said some of their programs are aimed at tackling such action.

Coco Palm Dhunikolhu Resort also undertakes a program to attar ct students to the twin subjects of tourism and environment. There are growing number of students who are keen to pursue a career in tourism and hospitality, he said.

miadhu.com.mv

Maldives to ban reef shark fishing by March 2010

When Maldives Minister of State for Fisheries and Agriculture stood up to speak at the South West Indian Ocean Fisheries Commission steering committee meeting in Mombasa, he talked extensively about the shark and how the tiny archipelago is changing its fortunes from the sea creature.

But to the surprise of many, especially the Kenyan delegation, the minister, Dr Hussein Rasheed Hassan, explained that his country was in the process of banning fishing of sharks from its waters, making it the first nation in the region to make such a move.

The majority of states in the region do not attach such value to the sharks.

But in Maldives, where the number of sharks has plummeted in recent years due to their killing by fishermen targeting them for their lucrative fins, the predator are a key feature of the tourism sector.

In 1998, a 10-year moratorium banning shark fishing was imposed to cover the seven atolls where tourism had been established on the assumption that many tourists visited the Maldives to see sharks.

However, with the spread of tourism to almost all islands in the country, the ministry decided to expand the ban to encompass all reef sharks fishing across the Maldives within a 12 nautical mile radius (22km).

Dr Hassan said the Maldives government has now given a one year notice of a total ban on reef shark fishing by March 2010.

“We have realised that it is more economically viable to leave the shark and other sea creatures unharmed because the country currently earns about $7 million annually from the diving industry,” Hassan said.

The reason for the ban, he said, was to increase the stocks and add value to diving tourism and attract more tourists who visit the islands for their beautiful underground coral gardens.

“The marine ecosystem is very fragile and that is why we have to regulate activities that coupled with the treats of climate change could adversely affect the major sources of income for the country,” he said.

Dr Hassan said that, today, the country receives tourists twice its 350, 000 population every year.

In Maldives, sharks have a particularly valuable role in the tourism industry, which generates some 30 per cent of the country’s GDP.

According to surveys, about 30 per cent of tourists visit the Maldives for its underwater marine with life, viewing sharks and manta rays as their top priorities.

theeastafrican.co.ke

New luxury resorts in the Maldives

The last 12 months have seen no let up in resort openings in the Maldives, with Shangri-La, Naiade, Constance Hotels, Taj, Angsana and Alila all opening new hotels.

But is it really still possible to get punters to part with thousands of pounds for a week on a speck of sand 11 hours’ flight away?

The answer seems to be yes. “It is expensive, no-one would deny that,” says Elegant Resorts’ commercial director, Alison Scott. “But it’s somewhere people still want to go and smart hoteliers have been making sure they address cost concerns by offering added value.”

The launch of new thrice-weekly British Airways flights to Male from Gatwick from October 25 will also ensure a flurry of Armani-clad bums on seats to the islands.

BA head of sales Richard Tams reports demand for the service has been high so far: “The Maldives has been growing in popularity over the years, yet the options for premium travellers have so far been pretty limited, especially non-stop from the UK. Our three-class service including new Club World cabin will change that.”

A week at many of the Maldives’ top five-star islands doesn’t usually leave much change out of £3,500, but there are deals to be had at great resorts. Thomas Cook Signature, for example, has been offering seven nights at the five-star Diva resort for £1,599 full-board in a junior suite – down from £2,699.

The operator’s product and contract manager, Charlie Greenwood, says she is happy with the way the destination has performed this year. “The Maldives is outrageously beautiful and it will never be anything other than an absolute treat to go there,” she says. Read more...

Paradise worth preserving

Fringes of reefs encircle the islands, forming startling white ribbons beside a deep blue ocean. Somewhere, among the 1,000 or so islands of the Maldives, lies the sandy isle of Reethi Rah, home to the One&Only Resort.

When viewed from air, all of the islands, big and small, are beautiful to behold. Stretching far into the calm waters, the island is encircled by a reef rich with coral and sea life.

Four years in the making, Reethi Rah is a labour of love. The resort made headlines when the One&Only opened its tall teak doors to those seeking peace and solitude.

Filled with swaying palm groves and thickets of shrubs, the resort sits on a Maldivian emerald, completely aware of its stunning location.

The Garland of Islands, as it is called in Dhivehi, the Maldives is the lowest lying country in the world with an average height of just two metres above sea level. This means the islands will be the first to be impacted by rising sea levels. The Maldives are a good model for sustainable tourism in a world feeling the effects of rapid climate change and global warming.

When tourism boomed beyond anyone’s wildest expectations, the Maldivian government put laws into place to help preserve its most precious asset — the sea and its flora and fauna.

In 1988, the government announced a series of wildlife and environmental laws to protect the islands from overfishing and pollution, as a burgeoning and unchecked tourism industry could easily spell disaster for this pristine paradise.

Sustainable tourism is vital in today’s world, and a resort that implements an eco-friendly philosophy is a high priority for many travelers in this day and age. Set in the spectacular surroundings of the Indian Ocean, the One&Only Reethi Rah is committed to becoming a Green Globe resort, a certification which entails a dedication to reducing and recycling waste on the island, which is in keeping with the country’s environmental laws.

A lot of effort has also gone into maintaining the resort’s lush gardens, with an expert team on hand to make sure the greens, trees and 2,600 orchards flourish. As plants cannot survive on desalinated water, a special rainwater collection system is used to sustain them.

The island is a haven for those seeking privacy. Many famous personalities, such as Elizabeth Hurley and Sienna Miller, have graced Reethi Rah with their presence. The resort also arranges snorkeling excursions and guided tours of the reef. Pedalos or kayaks are exciting and eco-friendly ways to explore the coral reef and its stunning sea life.

With walking, cycling and golf carts as the only means of transportation along the sandy routes, Reethi Rah is unspoiled and free from the smog of traffic.

In keeping with the programme to reduce its environmental impact, the resort’s villas are fitted with sensors that switch off the air conditioning once you open the doors to the cool sea breeze.

If you prefer outdoors living, make your way across the white sand to the hammocks, which gently sway under a clear blue sky, a perfect place to appreciate this paradise on earth.

khaleejtimes.com

The Maldives New Treasure: Shangri-La Villingili

Everyone expects azure skies and crystal-clear waters from the Maldives. But a jungle landscape so verdant it smacks of Borneo? Certainly, if you happen to be on Villingili island, home to half of the country's local flora in the form of lush primary forest, three freshwater lagoons and a sprawling mangrove swamp. It's there, in the Maldives' far-flung south, that you'll find the new Shangri-La Villingili Resort and Spa, www.shangri-la.com — the only luxury property in the area and the fruit of five years' laborious construction owing to its remote location.

Not that seclusion is a bad thing. The Shangri-La is blessed with a 3.7-mile (6 km) coastline and fantastic snorkeling and scuba-diving sites just several swimming minutes from the well-appointed villas. Water babies may drift from one reef to another, one beach to another, each one lovelier than the last. Turtles are frequently seen, and giant manta rays are spied year-round.

While pristine water will always remain the Maldives' main attraction, you should change out of your wet suit for the resort's nature trails, which take you into a forest where age-old banyans thrive luxuriantly alongside the native bird life. In fact, afternoons, when the sun is merciless, can be spent cycling through these peaceful, shaded woods.

After roughing it out all day, you'll have earned a Maldivian curry dinner on the beach. Or you could check into the spa for a hot-stone-inspired cowrie-shell massage that is preceded by a foot treatment consisting of a grated-coconut scrub and a warm-coconut-milk bath. Then retire into one of the 142 luxurious villas. Pool villa No. 1, incidentally the cheapest category of accommodation, is perfectly sandwiched between the ocean and lagoon, and affords complete privacy. Rates from $860 a night.

www.time.com