RAYS : Issue 2 - 2019

BAA ATOLL:

a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve SONEVA

at forefront of eco-tourism

THRILLING ADVENTURES

with manta rays, whale sharks at Hanifaru Bay

ISSUE 02 - 2019

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REVIEW

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CONTENTS

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BAA ATOLL:

A UNESCO BIOSPHERE RESERVE

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THRILLING ADVENTURES

with manta rays, whale sharks at Hanifaru Bay

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BAA ATOLL SUMMER FESTIVAL 2019 Bigger, better island-hopping culinary cornucopia

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SONEVA at forefront of eco-tourism

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THE NAUTILUS MALDIVES

A world of your own making

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5 things to look for at MILAIDHOO MALDIVES

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ENDING PLASTIC POLLUTION IN MALDIVES

with ‘FenFulhi’ initiative

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‘Why dream small?’

RAALHU MARIYAMBU

sets stage to take Maldives music scene to global stage

CREDITS Content Director Ali Naafiz Writers Ali Naafiz Ibrahim Mahudhee Mario Rodriguez Theejaan Binthi Faizalul Haq Creative Direction Moobeen Jaleel Layout and Design Maldives Promotion House Sales and Marketing Ismail Faseeh Ibrahim Mahudhee Raidh Mohamed Ahmed Ali Naafiz Photography Ibrahim Asad Mifzal Amir Resort photos: courtesy of the respective resort

Dear Passenger, It is my pleasure to welcome you to the second edition of RAYS, the official inflight magazine of Manta Air. We are happy to announce that we have added a new route to our operations since the release of our first edition; Dharavandhoo in Baa atoll.

A 20-minute trip from Male’ takes you to Dharavandhoo, situated in the home of the illustrious UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Baa atoll is teeming with magical sea creatures such as manta rays and whale sharks as well as unique handicrafts

Cover Photo Soneva Fushi - @Hisarahlee

that offer a glimpse into our rich culture and tradition.

For advertising with us please contact us on +960 792 0990 raidh@maldives.net.mv

of RAYS to the wonders of Baa atoll.

To celebrate this new route, we are also dedicating this edition

For passengers going to Dharavandhoo, even though this trip is a short one, we want to ensure that you get the best of our experience like on any other route. We also understand that some of our passengers have taken long and tiring journeys to

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reach the Maldives. I entrust you with the care of our crew who will make sure that you get your five-star airline experience in the Maldives and make the rest of your journey painless and effortless so that you can start your holiday with a smile!

As you cruise with the grace of the Manta Ray to your tropical destination, we hope you enjoy catching up with what’s happening in Baa atoll and around the Maldives.

Thank you once again for travelling with us on your tropical way to fly!

Warm regards, Mohamed Khaleel CEO, Manta Air

RAYS | THE INFLIGHT MAGAZINE OF MANTA AIR

FEATURE

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How did Baa Atoll come to be a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve?

By Theejaan Binthi Faizalul Haq

M

aldives, a country of unparalleled beauty, is known all over the world as a famous tourist destination.

The tropical paradise is awed for its white sand beaches lined with stately palm trees, clear, temperate waters, and the stunning underwater marine life.

But a lesser known fact is the work Maldivians do, in association with international organisations, to protect the country and its beauty; the islands encompassing it, the vulnerable ecosystems and the environment.

The protection and conservation efforts are ground breaking in providing Maldivians a livelihood, economic prosperity and social development, as the biodiversity of the country and its natural assets are very much dependent on the tourism industry as well as the fishing industry.

The result of one such conservation effort was the declaration of Baa atoll as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve on June 29, 2011. The effort took a lot of hard work and many years to fruition.

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FEATURE

Right: Lesser Frigatebird (hoara) visible in Olhagiri, an island with a house reef located at the southern end of Baa atoll.

Below: Launching ceremony of Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve

RAYS | THE INFLIGHT MAGAZINE OF MANTA AIR

Beginning of the Journey

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In the year 2004, a project called Atoll Ecosystem Conservation (AEC) was launched by the government of Maldives along with the Global Environment Facility and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). This project was launched with three goals. They are to mainstream biodiversity into existing policies and plans as well as future plans, to conserve the biological diversity of Baa atoll, and to better the livelihood of the people in the atoll. If successful, this project was to be replicated throughout the different islands in Maldives. Baa atoll was selected for this project because of its remarkable biodiversity.

that will manage Baa atoll’s natural resources in a sustainable manner and a conservation fund, which from the use of the natural resources of the atoll, will directly benefit the communities.

The one question that was raised at the project inception workshop was that what were the benefits the people of the atoll were to get if this project was to take place.

The answer was simple. It was that this was an environment project and not an infrastructure development programme and the benefits include a project mechanism

Unfortunately, the project was brought to a sudden halt in December 2004 due to the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami, where 82 people were killed and 40 reported missing in the Maldives alone.

Two studies were also done in the atoll.

One is an Ecological Base Line Study and the second is an Economic Valuation Study. Numerous other studies were also undertaken during the project’s lifetime in order to complement those two major studies. Many other important steps and tremendous effort were also put to make this project work with efficiency.

But the project restarted at the end of 2005 with renewed hopes.

Mid-term Evaluation In 2009, the AEC project’s mid-term evaluation took place. It was very optimistic to note that the project was on track and all the objectives of the project were being achieved.

This success urged the recommendation to pursue UNESCO’s designation as a Biosphere Reserve. A survey was conducted in the Baa atoll community as to whether Baa atoll should be designated as a Biosphere Reserve or not.

The recommendation was carried forward with the favour of over 85 per cent of the community members.

The Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve also gave way to multiple grants that brought prosperity and development to the people of Baa atoll.

In the year 2010, the President’s Office gave the approval for the nomination of Baa atoll as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. In September of that year, the nomination was sent to UNESCO with great expectations.

Top: Visitor Pass to Hanifaru Bay Marine Protected Area Right: UNESCO Declaration to include Baa Atoll, Maldives in the world network of Biosphere Reserve

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FEATURE

Declaration & Management Plans

RAYS | THE INFLIGHT MAGAZINE OF MANTA AIR

After six years of effort and many challenges like the volatile political situation in the Maldives during the period from 2008 to 2010 which lead to an indefinite delay in the agenda, UNESCO declared Baa atoll as a Biosphere Reserve. Soon, a Biosphere Reserve Office was established in Eydhafushi, the capital of Baa atoll.

Many officers and rangers were employed and given the responsibility to look after the marine protected areas. Multiple management programmes were kick started which were related to nine protected areas.

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They are: • Olhagiri: famous for frigate birds (Hoara); an island with a house reef located at the southern end of Baa atoll.

• Dhigali Haa and Dhigali Giri: a long and narrow reef with high biodiversity content and a standing population of hard and soft corals as well as associated marine vertebrates and invertebrates.

• Mathifaru Hura Region: a region which covers the Mathifaruhuraa island and reef and the Dhashufaruhuraa island and its reef.

• Hanifaru Bay: includes the uninhabited island of Hanifaru and its reef, which extends to 200 metres.

This site is very significant for Baa atoll, the Maldives and globally too. This high biodiversity marine region possesses a unique and dynamic water circulation system that attracts many whale sharks and manta rays for feeding and mating.

• Goidhoo Koaru (wetland) Region: the largest mangrove forest within Baa atoll and one of the largest mangrove ecosystems in the nation.

• Bathala region: consists of Bathalaahuraa reef. This area is high in biodiversity with a diverse habitat. It is also a nesting area for green and hawksbill turtles and a roosting site for black-naped tern.

• Angafaru region: a breeding ground for grey and white tip reef sharks.

• Maahurauvalhi reef region: a protected area which includes Maahuruvalhi reef including the channels of Ahivahfushi Kandu and Maahuruvalhi Kandu.

• Mendhoo region: a collection of reefs and a nesting site for green and hawksbill turtles.

The Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve also gave way to multiple grants that brought prosperity and development to the people of Baa atoll. The first cycle of grants supported projects from under conservation, livelihood, education and research programmes. From the seven grants, five are completed and one is currently ongoing. This Biosphere Reserve is a cause of great benefit and enrichment to the people of Maldives.

The Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve is a testament that boasts the power of hard work and effort when it comes to protecting the environment.

Source of Information: Abdulla Shibau / Project Manager, Atoll Ecosystem Conservation Project

DESTINATION STORY

Baa Atoll Summer Festival 2019

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Bigger, better island-hopping culinary cornucopia

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B

aa Atoll Summer Festival has once again brought together most of the atoll’s resorts for a celebration of their diverse culinary offering.

Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, 12 resorts in the atoll have come together for an island-hopping extravaganza in which guests can embark on a unique dine-around voyage encompassing Amilla Fushi, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas,

Top: launching of Baa Atoll Summer Festival 2019 Right: Tourism Minister Ali Waheed exploring the culinary delights at Baa Atoll Summer Festival 2019

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Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, Dreamland The Unique Sea & Lake Resort / Spa, Dusit Thani Maldives, Finolhu, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, Reethi Beach Resort, Royal Island Resort & Spa, Soneva Fushi, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, and Vakkaru Maldives.

Over a series of dedicated nights from July 8-21, the Summer Festival showcases the best each resort has to offer in the culinary scene, reaffirming Baa atoll’s reputation as a must-visit summer destination of distinction.

Officially commencing on July 7 with a series of exclusive Sunset Cocktail events for guests, the Baa Atoll Summer Festival sees each participating resort welcoming their neighbours’ guests for a special set menu dinner in their featured dining restaurant on designated nights over two consecutive weeks. Each resort showcases its own dining scene via a three-course set menu priced at USD 120++ per person including a glass of wine, with special children’s menus also available.

Complimentary inter-island transportation is organised by the participating resorts on the featured night. Special arrangements are also made on request for those who wish to repeat their experience in a specific resort at USD 25++ per person for shared boat transfers.

Participating guests spend their first week dining and imbibing at oceanside restaurants, including the laidback Fish & Crab Shack on Finolhu’s pristine sandbank, the overwater Japanese restaurant of Amilla Fushi, Feeling Koi, and the contemporary Italian restaurant with Neapolitan chef Ciro D’Amico, BLU at Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru.

Tourism Minister Ali Waheed exploring the culinary delights at Baa Atoll Summer Festival 2019

Week two follows with lavish dinners at Southeast Asian dining spot ONU in Vakkaru Maldives and beneath the ocean’s surface at Sea underwater restaurant of Anantara Kihavah Maldives, amongst other featured nights.

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DESTINATION STORY

Top: Reethi Beach team at Baa Atoll Festival Launching Left: Culinary delights at Baa Atoll Festival Launching

RAYS | THE INFLIGHT MAGAZINE OF MANTA AIR

Right & Bottom: Culinary delights at Baa Atoll Festival Launching

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Although the festival focuses primarily on the atoll’s culinary scene, each resort also offers an action-packed calendar of activities to keep the entire family entertained throughout the festival fortnight – from beach activities, conservation events, water experiences and more. This year also sees the introduction of a round-robin inter-resort beach volleyball tournament between staff and guests, as well as a Full Moon Island Clean-up Day.

Baa atoll, the only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives, is home to a number of resorts, including those run by world-renowned brands.

Baa atoll, the only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives, is home to a number of resorts, including those run by world-renowned brands.

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Soneva at forefront of eco-tourism

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Right: & Below: Soneva’s herb garden Bottom: Reusable water bottles at Soneva

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RAYS | THE INFLIGHT MAGAZINE OF MANTA AIR

oneva has been at the forefront of the sustainable luxury hospitality movement for over two decades. From banning singleuse plastic at its resorts, becoming 100 per cent carbon neutral including guest air travel, to waste management and recycling initiatives, Soneva is always trying to find new ways to improve its impact on the environment and help local communities in the process.

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When it comes to plastic, Soneva banned the use of plastic straws at its resorts in 1998. All of its resorts only use paper straws sourced from the United States. Recently, Soneva has been testing out locally sourced bamboo straws at Soneva Kiri in Thailand as an alternative to its standard paper ones.

In 2008, Soneva banned the import of branded bottled water, making it one of the first resort companies in the world to do so. Each resort filters, mineralises and bottles its own Soneva Drinking Water in reusable glass bottles — an initiative that has so far averted the production of 1,500,000 plastic bottles.

Soneva also raises around USD 90,000 every year from the Soneva Drinking Water proceeds and has funded over 500 clean water projects in more than 50 countries via charities such as Water Charity and Thirst Aid — enabling over 750,000 people around the world to have access to clean and safe water. More recently, the Soneva Drinking Water initiative was rolled out on one of Soneva Fushi’s neighbouring islands, Maalhos, reducing the island’s dependence on unreliable rainwater and increasing the local population’s access to pure, filtered water in reusable glass bottles.

At each resort, Soneva has its own Waste-to-Wealth facility, which in 2017 generated USD 340,000 in revenue.

Soneva Fushi recycles 90 per cent of its waste on-site through an innovative waste management strategy. Food left over from the resort’s restaurants is composted to make nutritious soil for the island’s vegetable and herb gardens, all of which are organic and provide much of the produce used at Soneva Fushi. Styrofoam packing is used to make lightweight construction blocks.

The remainder of the plastic waste is transformed by the Soneva Maker Programme, which has seen Soneva join the grass-roots Precious Plastic global initiative to increase plastic recycling, by fabricating their open source machines from locally available, low-cost materials. This machine, now installed at Soneva Fushi, is used to remould plastic into fun, functional and artistic items like flower pots, bowls and even children’s toys.

“We aim to change the perception of waste; plastic is precious and discarded items can be resources for a whole new range of useful products,” Sonu Shivdasani, Soneva’s Founder and CEO, said.

Top: Dining in the garden Right: Selection of herbs at Soneva

“We are proud to be part of the conversation on plastic recycling and join the global ‘maker movement’. Soneva has been recycling for a very long time, but we’ve taken it to the next level with these plastic recycling machines and we look forward to encouraging our skilled hosts and guests to work with us to create items of value from waste.”

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Right: Girl enjoying Maldivian Fresh Coconut at Soneva Below: Fresh in the Garden Restaurant at Soneva

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Right: Underwater gardens of Soneva

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Soneva has also pledged funds from its Soneva Save our Seas programme to support creating eco-centres on neighbouring islands of Maalhos, Dharavandhoo and Kihaadhoo, in a bid to end open burning, which poses a health and environmental hazard

and damages tourism. The first ecocentre, which will sort, recycle and reuse island waste, is due to open in Maalhos this summer. Open burning in Maalhos is expected to end shortly after the island’s eco-centre is fully operational.

Another aspect of the Waste to Wealth initiative is Soneva Fushi’s Art and Glass Studio, the only hot glass studio in the Maldives. Here, used glass bottles from Soneva and neighbouring resorts in the Baa atoll are crushed and melted down.

Then, using techniques such as glass blowing, casting and slumping, the Soneva glass team creates functional pieces as well as one-of-a-kind glass sculptures, which can be bought from the Art and Glass Studio.

“If we work together, we are sure we can create the right environment for the Maldives to be the world’s most progressive country on single use plastic. If we project forwards just a few years, we can see that all islands will have thriving waste-towealth centres; there will be no plastic bags; no plastic straws; islands will have their own water bottling plants; no guesthouses or resorts will serve water in single use bottles,” Sonu said.

Soneva has also created the Soneva Foundation to organise and initiate projects that have a positive environmental, social and economic impact. Whenever possible, the foundation uses impact investing principles to recover outlays through carbon finance, which is then fed back

into projects to further extend their reach and benefits to more people.

The Soneva Foundation’s flagship project supplies clean cookstoves to people in rural Myanmar, as human development and energy use are intrinsically linked. In Darfur, the foundation distributed 26,000 fuel-efficient stoves, reaching 130,000 people. The Soneva Forest Restoration project saw over 500,000 trees planted in Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. There is a Soneva wind turbine in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu that will provide 80,000 MWh of clean energy over a 20-year period, mitigating 70,000 tonnes of CO2.

In the Maldives, Soneva works with local school children and their mothers to teach them how to swim.

For a small island nation, the number of people who do not know how to swim, is alarmingly high. The Soneva Ocean Stewards (SOS) programme also involves teaching the children environmental awareness about the oceans and how important it is to safeguard them. Since its launch in 2014, the programme has successfully taught more than 300 people, including over 260 children, in the Maldives’ Baa atoll to swim. The programme is led by local instructors and, in an effort to ensure that the initiative is sustainable in the long term, more than 35 instructors have now been trained at Soneva Fushi.

Soneva’s newest resort, Soneva Jani is also following in the footsteps of its pioneering sister resort. Soneva Jani has been working with the Olive Ridley Project since 2017, during which the resort’s resident marine biologist has worked to remove ghost nets from the ocean, assisted

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The Glass Art Studio, So Glassycle at Soneva

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in the rescue of injured turtles, and contributed valuable sea turtle photo IDs to build a database of turtles resident in the resort’s native Noonu atoll. The resort has also welcomed experts from the Olive Ridley Project to conduct training and awareness sessions for both guests and staff on the subject of turtle rehabilitation, and to educate people on the dangers of ghost nets in the ocean.

“Our partnership with the Olive Ridley Project will serve as a valuable platform for us to continue our commitment to raising awareness about the dangers that sea turtles

face today. The Olive Ridley Project is renowned in the Maldives for their ongoing, selfless work in turtle conservation, and we are beyond proud to be a part of this,” Eleanor Butler, Soneva Jani’s Marine Biologist, said.

Soneva is a pioneering family of hospitality properties and products, offering holistic encounters in luxurious and inspiring environments – from world class hotels to outstanding natural locations. Combining luxury with a conscientious approach to sustainability and the environment, and proactively changing the nature of

hospitality, it delivers intuitive service and meaningful experiences to the guests.

“I strongly believe that a company exists not only to make a profit, but to serve and improve the communities in which it operates. I remain a strong advocate of the overall positive impact of travel and tourism and the key role it plays in protecting and conserving communities and the environment. Being sustainable is also part of our DNA and we are always striving to limit the negative environmental impact of our activities – something which is both difficult as well as critical for a company which operates

resorts in remote places of pristine natural beauty,” Sonu said.

“We may sometimes fall short of our own high standards, but we are very clear about our responsibilities as custodians of the communities we operate in. This responsibility to one’s community is somewhat complicated for a company such as ours whose guests jet in from all over the globe. As a result, our social and environmental responsibilities are as much global as they are local.”

Soneva currently owns and operates Soneva Fushi, Soneva Jani and Soneva in Aqua in the Maldives, and Soneva Kiri in Thailand.

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Photo: SONEVA

Thrilling adventures with manta rays, whale sharks at Hanifaru Bay

By Ibrahim Mahudhee

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WHAT’S COOL Photo: SHIBAU

Snorkelling with Manta Rays & Whale Sharks at Hanifaru Bay

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RAYS | THE INFLIGHT MAGAZINE OF MANTA AIR

n the southern Baa atoll of the Maldives, the summer months of June to November mean only one thing; manta ray season. This is when hundreds of majestic manta rays migrate to the atoll’s plankton-rich waters for astounding animal-viewing opportunities unequalled anywhere else on the planet.

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Baa atoll is home to Hanifaru Bay, famous around the world for large seasonal aggregations of feeding reef manta rays (Manta Alfredi) and whale sharks (Rhincodon Typus).

Hanifaru was declared protected on June 5, 2009, and the protected area of coverage includes the uninhabited island of Hanifaru and the reef of Hanifaru extending to 200 metres. The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Hanifaru Bay is carefully managed with entry limited to a small number of visitors every day to conserve the environment.

Needless to say, this uniquely-shaped bay has attracted large numbers of tourists from across the globe to immerse themselves in the tropical waters amongst a feeding frenzy of these gentle giants.

Each year, from May to November, huge amounts of krill and plankton collects in Hanifaru Bay, attracting all kinds of

Photo: MANTA TRUST

Photo: FOUR SEASONS

marine life – especially making it the world’s largest natural manta ray feeding destination.

Curious, friendly and harmless, manta rays feed on a variety of plankton, which accounts for their large, gaping mouths. Although it is also famous for being nursery grounds for grey sharks and sting rays and is one of the very few places in the world where whale sharks congregate to mate, the Hanifaru Bay is best known for its concentration of reef manta rays, where on good days it is possible to see and swim alongside a hundred mantas!

The gentle giants of the ocean, manta rays are one of the most mysterious sea creatures.

Little is known about the largest fish in the sea that fascinate divers; in the Maldives there are thought to be some 5,000 of them. A manta ray can be identified by the distinctive markings on its belly, each one being marked differently, in the manner of humans being identified by their fingerprints. Manta rays, though daunting in terms of size, are harmless to humans, feeding mainly on plankton and small organisms. Unlike their

close relative, the sting ray, manta rays have no tail stinger or barb and are one of the friendliest creatures in the sea. With winglike pectoral fins that stretch to a length of 13 to 15 feet (4 to 4.5 metres), manta rays move gracefully through the water whilst feeding with their enormous mouth.

Swimming with manta rays is a remarkable, once-in-a-lifetime experience that snorkelers of all abilities should not miss out on.

Having one of the largest comparable brain sizes of any marine animal makes manta rays highly curious, resulting in some very close snorkelling encounters.

Resorts as well as guesthouses in the Baa atoll offer one of the best opportunities to encounter these amazing creatures in their natural annual migration across the Indian Ocean. Several resorts in Baa atoll, including Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, Milaidhoo Maldives, Kihaa Maldives, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, Dusit Thani Maldives and Amilla Fushi,

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A Manta gliding elegantly Photo: SONEVA

Playful Mantas Photo: SONEVA

offer guided excursions to Hanifaru Bay for guests to snorkel with mantas. Guests can go in group trips or book a private excursion, perhaps adding on a picnic on a deserted sandbank or a cruise to a local island for a truly memorable day.

Resorts and guesthouses in Baa atoll that offer special manta discovery offers and programmes work closely with local rangers who protect Hanifaru Bay to get the insider scoop on the mantas’ movements, so that guests can quickly reach the site, which is located only a few minutes away, maximising their chances of spotting the rays. Tours depart several times each week from the respective resort or guesthouse, and no previous snorkelling experience is necessary.

Provided they are confident swimmers, children as young as eight years can join in on this incredible marine encounter.

Guides accompanying the visitors scout the mantas’ favourite spots, usually in Hanifaru Bay or in nearby currents where plankton

and krill swim. Once given the go-ahead to get into the water, visitors are encouraged to jump into the water and snorkel alongside the gentle giants. Snorkelers are treated to an amazing underwater ballet as the mantas glide and somersault in mesmerising patterns.

The mantas often swim within centimetres of snorkelers, always managing to avoid contact at the last second. Often appearing inquisitive in nature, they majestically swoop over and around swimmers, at times coming thrillingly close; a breath-taking and humbling experience.

On any given day, visitors to Hanifaru Bay can see anywhere from a couple of mantas to more than 40 depending on plankton levels. Around the full moon, as many as 100 mantas can congregate in the bay. Watching as they glide, swoop, swerve and somersault just metres beneath you is one of life’s truly spectacular experiences. Getting this close to these majestic creatures is truly an experience of a lifetime!

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REVIEW

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THE

NAUTILUS MALDIVES

g n i k a m n w o r u o y f o d l r o w A

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n Baa atoll, a new entry in the world of legendary hotels has arrived with the recent opening of The Nautilus. Inspired by the question ‘what if a holiday in the Maldives could be done differently? More meaningfully?’

The Nautilus, which opened in February 2019, answers those questions with its ground-breaking philosophy of giving absolute freedom to its guests in a place where time has no meaning and convention is set aside.

Luxury Bohemian Hideaway

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Owned by a Maldivian entrepreneur, this is a bohemian hideaway set in the otherworldly beauty of a UNESCO biosphere reserve. An immensely private island of 26 allsuite Beach and Ocean Houses, it’s been designed as a place where every guest should feel as if they were wstaying in their own home.

For those who sometimes feel at war with the clock, this is the perfect celebration of the individual spirit,

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liberation and freedom. A place where guests are encouraged to be themselves and shape their own personal journey and, most of all, to enjoy being with the people they want most to spend time with, in any way they choose. The purpose for this new island, therefore, is the aspiration to completely re-write current luxury resort conventions and offer the last word in island luxury – not only in the Maldives but also worldwide.

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A unique arrival Uniquely in the Maldives, The Nautilus experience begins on the runway at the Airport, where every guest is received as they disembark from the plane and taken straight to a VIP terminal in the airport to relax in the private lounge whilst all formalities are taken care of. From there it’s a short journey to Baa atoll aboard the Resort’s very own private seaplane – with its plush businessclass styled seating.

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House Masters (Butlers)

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The service is driven by the House Masters (butlers), who are the experience curators and take care of every detail.

From organising breakfast which can be taken at any time of day – in any restaurant, in bed or by the pool or a spontaneous journey on the resort’s luxury yacht for a picnic in a private sand bank in the middle of the Ocean, the House Masters simply arrange everything as needed.

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Comforts of home at The Nautilus Accommodation at The Nautilus is called ‘Houses and Residences’ because guests should feel the same levels of comfort and ease as when at home, along with the most spectacular features the Maldives has to offer; private pools, ocean views, soft sandy beaches encircling lush tropical greenery, and a rich coral reef just metres from the shores.

Each of the 26 Houses or Residences is a suite, with the interior designed to “make it feel like the comforts of home, and better.”

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Eat what you want, when you want – Unscripted Dining Dining at The Nautilus includes intriguing infusions of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern fine dining cuisine at the overwater signature Zeytoun Restaurant & Lounge; elegant simplicity with Japanese and LatinAmerican creations at the Ocaso Grill; and global delicacies at the Thyme restaurant.

Perhaps one of the most revolutionary ideas at The Nautilus is how guests can fully explore the concept of ‘unscripted dining’. This means having the freedom to order anything they like, even when it’s not on the menu, no opening or closing times, no fixed breakfast hours, and no dress codes recognising that travellers have a wide variety of dining moods that no written menu could ever encompass.

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Spirit of discovery As part of its commitment to giving guests absolute freedom, The Nautilus creates incredible excursions and adventures, taking guests where they want to be when they want to be there, from midnight swims in glowing phosphorescent waters, to exploring deserted islands on a luxury yacht or floating in a ‘star filled’ pool under the milky way whilst the House Master whisks up another perfect cocktail.

Guests can relish trips to the world-renowned Hanifaru Bay, the only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives to swim amongst whale sharks and manta rays and where a kaleidoscopic wonderland of incredible marine life awaits discovery.

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Most notable of all is the island’s own house reef; the vibrant coral reef that encircles the island which bids fascinating underwater viewing to snorkelers just a few metres from the beach.

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Wellbeing The Nautilus sets guests on their own path to wellness, drawing on ancient wisdoms and modern innovations for a transformative journey. The spa at The Nautilus – called ‘Solasta’ meaning ‘radiant and bright’ – is dedicated to offering bespoke spa sequences designed for each guest by the spa specialist which can last for as long as wished.

Set on stilts over a lagoon, the three overwater treatment pavilions all have view through glass floors, steam room and private changing room. At Solasta, guests are encouraged to come for treatment when they wish and stay for as long as they need or in the comfort of their own House or Residence. The treatments use an alchemy of thoughtfully sourced, effective, sustainable products from France and Hungary with local coconut oils, fruits and plants enhancing the experience. Therapeutic pre- and post-treatment bathing experiences take place in the Spa pavilions’ outdoor decks under azure skies and above turquoise waters.

On the quiet, unrushed shores of The Nautilus, life moves at a different pace and guests are given all the time in the world to reflect and recalibrate in “a world of your own making.” because in the end, it’s these simple, elemental pleasures – that ability to simply be – that form the greatest luxury of all.

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CLAP! CLAP! CLAP!

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Ending Plastic Pollution in Maldives with

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‘FenFulhi’ initiative

By Elissa Miolene, UNICEF

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n February 21 and 22, children, parents and teachers in Addu City and Fuvahmulah joined UNICEF, the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Education to rally against single-use plastics at Hithadhoo and Mohamed Jamaluddin schools.

“Plastic pollution is a huge problem in our community,” said Dr Asiyath Mohamed Dida, the principal of Hithadhoo School.

“We’re working on helping kids understand that. Many of their parents are not aware of how plastic affects us, but we think that with this knowledge, the young generation can bring change.”

The event was part of a larger campaign to reduce single-use plastics – such as water bottles, plastic bags and plastic straws – across the country, and is a piece of the government’s action plan for the administration’s first 100 days.

Since late last year, UNICEF has partnered with the Ministries of Environment and Education to distribute nearly 10,000 BPA-free reusable water bottles to grade one students.

By providing families with these bottles, UNICEF is helping them reduce reliance on single-use plastic, whilst building awareness on the ways single-use plastic is harming their communities. The launch events at Hithadhoo and Mohamed Jamaluddin

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CLAP! CLAP! CLAP!

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Launching of ‘FenFulhi’ Initiative

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schools celebrated that initiative, and provided a platform to discuss environmental degradation through dialogue, songs and skits.

“These water bottles are a symbol of your commitment to the environment,” Mohamed El Munir A. Safieldin, the UNICEF Representative to Maldives, said.

“Planet Earth belongs to you, but you have to take charge of protecting the environment to protect your own futures.”

More than eight million tonnes of plastic are dumped into the oceans every year, 50 per cent of which has only been used once and thrown away. Though plastic pollution is a problem throughout the world, in the Maldives, the situation is particularly dire.

The country is made up of 99 per cent water and one per cent land, a geographic composition that makes any damage to the oceans reverberate through the islands.

Every day, 280,000 plastic bottles are used and discarded in Male, the capital city, alone.

And last year, 104 million plastic bags were imported to the Maldives. Awareness-raising initiatives are tackling this issue from a different angle, attempting to reduce singleuse plastic consumption by transforming children into change agents of their communities.

Safieldin was joined by Dr Hussain Rasheed Hassan, Minister of Environment, and Dr Aishath Ali, Minister of Education. At the culmination of each event, the ministers and Safieldin gave water bottles to representatives from the 20 primary schools in Addu and Fuvahmulah, all of whom were grade one students accompanied by their caregivers.

“We need to decide whether we want to continue living on planet Earth, or end the lives of ourselves and those around us,” said Safieldin.

“Do we want to continue living? Or do we want to die? I personally want to live, and I know all of you want the same. To do that, we need to protect the environment.”

This initiative builds on a number of others that came before it: in 2018, a nationwide ban on single-use plastics was implemented in schools across the Maldives. Ever since, students have become aware of the damage such products cause, and many have become involved in the fight against environmental degradation. Students from Hithadhoo School, for example, organised two clean-up events of the island in February 2019. And last year, students from Mohamed Jamaluddin wrote a proposal to increase composting in schools. Their project idea won a grant from the Ministry of Environment and will be carried out later this year.

“Each of these events makes more people aware of the problem,” said Hudhna Hussein, a teacher at Maradhoo School in Addu City.

“Now it’s the kids who are teaching the adults.”

After the event in Addu City commenced, Safieldin spoke to a group of young students; “With this knowledge, do you think you can convince the city to change?”

The students laughed. “The city?” they said.

“We can convince the country.”

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SOMETHING UNIQUE

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things to look for at MILAIDHOO ISLAND MALDIVES

By Ali Naafiz

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f you know and love the Maldives, you’ll remember when all villas had thatched roofs; when you never had to wear shoes or dress up for dinner; and when there were no TVs, internet or newspapers. Milaidhoo Island Maldives, a boutique island resort which opened in Baa atoll in November 2016, wants to bring back that true Maldives feel by researching the history and traditions of our country, and reinterpreting them in a contemporary, luxurious way.

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For the team at Milaidhoo, luxury travel is about the authenticity of the experience and how it touches your heart. The resort believes that a stay with them must be genuinely Maldivian, but it must also be contemporary and luxurious too. It’s that unique combination of authenticity delivered in a modern way that defines what Milaidhoo calls, ‘Reinvented Luxury’.

Here, we present five unique features of Milaidhoo that sets it apart!

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50 chapters of laidback island living Milaidhoo Island tells the story of a destination where architectural details effortlessly mix with natural elements. Nestled in the lush tropical surroundings are 20 serene beach pool villas and 30 spacious overwater pool villas. The 50 villas are expressions of understated luxury created from the finest natural, local materials, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living. Custom made for guests’ personal comfort each villa is a private haven featuring the latest technology, a dedicated host and stunning ocean views.

Shunning the current trend for high-gloss name-dropping look-atme hotel glitz, barefoot informality is at the very heart of the ethos of Milaidhoo where selfie-sticks and drones are not encouraged.

Instead, the island offers a return to a classic, relaxed Maldivian holiday style on a tiny island with deep soft white sand beaches and a vibrant coral reef. This means the simple life on a small island where guests can become part of nature, going barefoot and exploring the beauty of the country. Yes, if you need it, there is wifi and satellite TV (discreetly hidden behind a traditional Maldivian artwork in your villa so you can always pretend it’s not there).

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SOMETHING UNIQUE

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‘Sleeping Under the Stars’

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At Milaidhoo, one lucky couple a night can experience the natural essence of the tropics by sleeping under the stars on an isolated sandbank. The sandbank is transformed with the same comfortable facilities of your Milaidhoo villa, complete with a four-poster bed draped in muslin. A yacht for your exclusive use with dressing room, shower, toilet and equipped with all amenities, is anchored by the sandbank. Candles and battery-powered lanterns enhance the moonlight and the only music is the wash of waves on shore.

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Your memorable night as a castaway couple begins with a short dolphin cruise at sunset on a luxury yacht or a traditional Maldivian sailing boat with a butler offering champagne and canapés as the sun sets and dolphins leap. When you land on the sandbank, sun-downer cocktails are served as a welcome drink.

Then follows a four-course dinner especially created to your request by the chef and served at your table by your personal butler. You are invited to sit by a cosy fire as you enjoy after-dinner drinks whilst the crew withdraw, leaving you and your partner in romantic, star-lit privacy. A luxurious, canopied kingsize bed awaits as you are embraced by the magic of the moon and stars on this isolated desert sandbank far from everywhere.

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The Milaidhoo Gourmet Plan Milaidhoo offers meaningful and memorable experiences. As part of that, The Milaidhoo Gourmet Plan is a dine-around meal plan offering outstanding dining and drinks throughout the stay. Enjoy your daily breakfast at leisure and follow it with an indulgent set menu lunch at Ocean restaurant. You can also enjoy an a la carte light meal selection at Compass Pool Bar. Then smoothly move on to an a la carte dinner in either Ocean or The Shoreline Grill. You’ll also be invited to enjoy dinner at the signature Ba’theli restaurant once every four days.

To ensure you never go thirsty, Milaidhoo’s restaurants and bars welcome you all day long! You can enjoy a selection of international and premium brands of spirits, beers and cocktails, as well as fresh juices, soft drinks, mineral water, tea, coffee, milkshakes and smoothies. A premium selection of wines, hand-picked by a sommelier, is also on offer.

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4

Ba’theli, truly modern Maldivian dining Welcome aboard the only restaurant in the world set on a boat in a lagoon featuring gourmet dishes of inspired island cuisine from the Maldivian Spice Route.

Ba’theli reflects its heritage as it takes its name from the local word for a traditional wooden sailing boat, and has been built in the shape of three boats that stand on stilts over the lagoon. One ‘boat’ is the restaurant, a second ‘boat’ is the bar-lounge and a third ‘boat’ is the kitchen.

Guests can dine either outdoors on the open-air ‘deck’ of the restaurant under a starry night sky, or inside the boat, which is air conditioned and has glass floors for views of the marine life below. Facing the west, Baththeli commands perfect sunset views and is reached on foot by an overwater wooden jetty.

Open for dinner every night, Ba’theli offers a six-course Maldivian heritage tasting menu as well as a la carte choices. The Ba’theli menu features classic Maldivian dishes such as Garudhiya (a clear soup with tuna), Mashuni (a tuna salad with coconut, pumpkin and lime) as well as a selection of regional specialties from around the different atolls such as a beef curry from the north and chicken curry from the far south of the Maldives.

The menu isn’t limited to local ingredients, although many of the dishes originate in the Maldives, but also takes on cooking techniques and flavours from around the Indian Ocean, as does traditional Maldivian cooking.

Ingredients from India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia find their way onto the menu, all giving their subtle influence to the dishes.

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5

Honeymooners get ‘own star’ Milaidhoo sets a new standard for romantic gestures: it names a star after its honeymooning guests as part of its ‘Perfect Honeymoon’ package. The honeymooning couple has a star in the night skies named after them and can take home a naming certificate of registration and star chart so they can always find it. Guests are able to choose the exact name of their star and which constellation it’s in.

The Perfect Honeymoon Package can be booked by couples who have a valid wedding certificate not more than six months old and are staying at least four nights in Milaidhoo. The package includes: naming a star after the couple, with certificate and star chart; one utterly relaxing 60-minute spa treatment for two in an overwater spa pavilion; a romantic three-course candlelit dinner on the deck of the guests’ villa; signature honeymoon cake along with a bottle of champagne and tropical fruit basket upon arrival.

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Hanifaru Bay

Kihaa Maldives

Kihaa Maldives Baa Atoll, Republic of Maldives +960 790 9181 | kihaamaldives@coralislandresorts.com www.kihaamaldives.com KihaaMaldives

Experience the Maldives with your five star airline Flying has never been this good

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SPOTLIGHT

‘ Why dream small?’

RAALHU MARIYAMBU sets stage to take

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MALDIVES music scene

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to global stage

By Ali Naafiz

Photo: MIFZAL AMIR ISSUE 02 - 2019

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SPOTLIGHT

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ow did you come to be known as ‘Raalhu Mariyambu’, was the first question I asked Mariyam Maeesha. She burst into laughter and said, “Don’t tell anyone.” Still laughing, she started telling me the story of how she used to skip school and go swimming. She was so into everything related to the sea that her friends started calling her, ‘Raalhu Mariyambu’.

Maeesha loved music just as much as the sea. As a kid, she looked up to her elder sister, and loved listening to her sing. Maeesha’s interest continued through her teenage years but she didn’t become serious about being a musician until a few years ago. That’s when she met Mifzal ‘Mippe’ Amir – her boyfriend and bandmate – and embarked on a journey of music discovery.

That journey took her to Maldivian Idol Season Three.

As one of the most distinct talents seen during the entire three seasons of Maldivian Idol, Maeesha killed it on stage and off stage. Even from the beginning, her electrifying performances caught the eyes of viewers and touched so many around the country. Through her action-packed performances and down-to-earth attitude during the show, she earned a loyal following on social media. By the end of the show, ‘Raalhu Mariyambu’ became a household name and Maeesha was guaranteed a spot in the local music industry and beyond!

Rays sits with Maeesha, who along with lead singer of the Kabans Arshad ‘Kokko Kabans’ Ali serve as the brand ambassadors of Manta Air, to find out more about her journey and what she has planned for her future.

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Rays: How did you develop an interest in music?

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Mariyam Maeesha: I have always been very fond of music. Even when I was a kid, I listened to music all the time. I have a sister and a cousin who sing. So, when I was 12-13 years old, I began to sing casually and taught myself to play guitar. But I wasn’t the type of person who would go out, hang out with crowds and jammed. So, music was just a hobby and I didn’t give priority to pursue it as a career.

My interest in music really developed after I met Mippe about five years ago. He was a drum major at school, so he had the interest to professionally play drums. His brother was a music

Photo: MIFZAL AMIR

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SPOTLIGHT

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Photo: MIFZAL AMIR

composer, so we all went to his studio to jam and write songs.

We jammed and discovered music together. Then Maldivian Idol came along, and after two seasons I thought I’d give it a try. Mippe and his brother pushed me to join. They have helped me become who I’m today just as much as my parents have.

R: How was the Maldivian Idol journey?

MM: I joined Idol because I wanted to be part of the music family.

Getting the first, second or third wasn’t my objective, but I just wanted to take part in the show after seeing the good it did to all the participants. After the auditions, I realised how much people liked my singing. It was a great feeling; to get so much love and support from so many people, especially by doing something I loved so much. So, I worked hard and learned a lot from my coaches and judges about the technical aspects of music and vocals. To this day, I follow those advices. Idol did great favours to everybody. Anyone who gave their best during Idol would get a lot of opportunities today. The same happened to me after Idol.

R: Where did your music journey took you after Idol?

MM: I’m now working as a full-time musician. I’m learning and improving a lot as I go along. This is a career worth pursuing.

R: Where do you perform now?

MM: I’m working as a freelance vocalist, performing with senior lineups like Def Note, Limestone and Sky Rock. I’m going with them as a vocalist, just to get the hang of performing in resorts.

I also have my own band called Musigaarun, which means ‘Musicians’ in local Dhivehi language. It’s a four-person lineup: Mippe on drums, Ahmed ‘Ammacko’ Latheef and Ahmed ‘Yayya’ Fayyah on guitar, and myself as the vocalist. We formed the band two months after Idol, and travelled to several islands and to Sri Lanka for Eid shows. We have signed up with Kuredu Resort Maldives to do a regular weekly gig there and have also collaborated with the soon-to-be-launched The Marina @ Crossroads. It’s shaping up to be a great year for us!

It’s been a great experience. Ammacko is already a wellestablished musician and Mippe is also becoming a great drummer. I’m very grateful to both of them for helping me get better.

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SPOTLIGHT

R: Do you give priority to original Dhivehi songs?

MM: I prefer originals. I don’t have an issue with performing Dhivehi songs based on Hindi melodies, but we have enough original Dhivehi songs. Composing a song is a lot of work. People might not realise that; as a fan girl, I have even asked some artists when they would be releasing their next song. So, we have to fully appreciate the hard work and effort that goes into releasing an original song.

Ammacko and I were in W Maldives recently and we performed Dhivehi songs. During our break, a couple came over and asked us which language we were singing in. They said they had been travelling a lot and had learned a lot of languages, but that they couldn’t figure out which language we had been singing. They said our performance touched their hearts and they could figure that our language was very elegant.

We were also in Thailand on holiday this year and we met this couple. We were talking about music and we showed them some of my performances and videos of Dhivehi reggae songs.

They loved it, and the next day they came to us and showed us more songs they had discovered on their own.

R: How did you get the opportunity to work with Manta Air? MM: Manta Air approached me after Idol. They looked into all the finalists of Idol and found out that I had one of the biggest fanbases, both online and offline. So, they wanted to combine my appeal to youngsters and Kokko Kaban’s appeal to the senior crowd.

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Everyone at Manta Air is very kind and they are a very creative bunch. They also have a very soft spot for artists. I never pictured myself as an ambassador of an airline, but the appeal of Manta Air tempted me to accept their offer. We have been doing some exciting projects with Manta Air and I can’t wait for everyone to see them. Through Manta Air, I have also had the opportunity to work on projects initiated by UNDP. That’s a great opportunity too.

R: How do you envision your future as a musician?

MM: I want to get more practice in the local scene; release an album of my own and contribute to the local music industry. One of the originals I’m working on will be released soon. I’m giving myself five years, and then I want to tour abroad with my band. I’m thinking of not just Asia, but performing to even large crowds in places like Europe. Why should we limit our thinking? We have to think big. If I’m giving 10 years of my life to 300,000 people here, I’d also like to go out there and see a different horizon; perform to a much larger audience and learn from it. I want to be very experimental. I don’t know what I’m going to sing five years from now.

R: What are the challenges local musicians like yourself and the industry as a whole face?

MM: First of all, it’s very important to appreciate the efforts and contribution of people giving their best to value musicians.

There are companies like Manta Air and several individuals that support local artists. I have great respect for them.

That being said, a lot more needs to be done. Lack of practice spaces is a major challenge for all musicians. We have just two to three studios in Male and all the bands have to struggle to get a slot. That needs to change.

The only opportunity we now get to enjoy music is during Eid which is two times a year. That’s not enough. It used to be so much better, with bands like Amazon Jade and Quick Sand playing at local cafes almost every night. We need to revive that culture, where locals can get together and enjoy some good music. We need to bring back music festivals and shows, so that our young generation can go and enjoy. It will also lead to the discovery of more talents.

It’s also very important that we sell our talent abroad. Lesser known bands from countries like Philippines are coming down here to perform at resorts. Likewise, we must create opportunities for Maldivian bands to go abroad and play at different venues like hotels and restaurants.

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SPOTLIGHT

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Photo: MIFZAL AMIR

R: Which artists do you consider as your inspiration?

MM: We have a lot of great artists here in Maldives. Zero Degree Atoll is without a doubt No. 1. Then there are old bands like Amazon Jade and Quick Sand – they are amongst my favourites. From contemporary local musicians, I greatly respect Affan. Amongst international musicians, Pink Floyd tops the list of my favourites. I also grew up listening to Beatles, Bob Dylan, Bob Marley and Michael Jackson, so they always have a spot in my heart.

For me, every single artist is an inspiration. If they are working hard towards being better, I’d look up to them, no matter how young or old they are. We’re a family and there shouldn’t be any competition amongst us. Everyone’s unique.

R: As an artist, what’s your biggest drive?

MM: Music is what makes me want to wake up every day. That’s what drives me and my band. I’m still very young and my career is at a very infant stage. I’m learning a lot, and as I go along I’m trying to develop my own techniques and styles.

Music is a big service. It’s a soul-to-soul connection that doesn’t need you to say much. We set the mood. If you’re sad, we can make you happy. If you want to be sad, we can make you sad. I love being a musician. If you use this influence in a good way, it’s a major contribution to the society, to make the world a little better than it is. If I had made even the smallest difference in our society, I’d be happy on my deathbed.

R: What would you say to up-and-coming musicians?

MM: Just do it, but don’t make a fool out of yourself. Some young artists like myself make the mistake of not listening to the feedback from our seniors. They don’t respect constructive criticism. That way you can never fully realise your potential.

So, have an open mind to everything. Listen to your seniors.

And make the best use of the tools available like social media to reach out to as many people as possible.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING

MALDIVES CHALLENGES SHORTTERM, WILL REMAIN HIGHEST RATE-YIELDING ASIA PACIFIC MARKET Despite increased pressure on the resort market due to a large influx of new supply, Maldives will remain as one of the highest rate-yielding markets in Asia Pacific, global hospitality consulting firm Horwath HTL has said.

In its market outlook for the Maldives, Horwath HTL said foreign tourist arrivals have grown at a 10-year compound average annual growth (CAAG) rate of 8.1 per cent from 2008 to 2018. Though 2018 recorded an increase in foreign arrivals to 1.48 million, YoY growth was at a slower pace of 6.8 per cent due to several factors, including a downturn in the Chinese market and increased political turmoil, it added.

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Howarth HTL stressed that the large influx of new supply is expected to put pressure on the resort market in the short to mid-term, with occupancy falling to 55 per cent in the above USD 1,000 category, 70 per cent in the USD 600-1,000 category and 65 per cent in the below USD 600 category. Rate-wise, the market should not expect large bouts of growth given the stiffer competition compared to five years ago, it said.

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“However, the market should remain as one of the highest rate-yielding markets in Asia Pacific. As supply growth tapers and demand continues to grow because of the destination’s unique geography, we should expect overall resort market occupancy to improve in the long run,” the report read.

MALDIVES TO OPEN FIVE NEW AIRPORTS IN 2019 Five new airports will come into operation by the end of the year, Maldives government has announced.

Transport minister Aishath Nahula told local media that construction of airports on the islands of Kulhudhuffushi in Haa Dhaal atoll, Funadhoo in Shaviyani atoll, Maafaru in Noonu atoll, Madivaru in Lhaviyani atoll and Maavarulu in Gaaf Dhaal atoll is nearing completion.

Kulhudhuffushi airport will come into operation first, followed by Funadhoo and Maafaru airport in August, she said.

Six hectares off the southern coast of Kulhudhuffushi and another nine hectares from the island’s wetlands were reclaimed for the airport, which has a runway measuring 1,200 metres in length and 60 metres in width.

The international airport in Maafaru is part of a joint Maldives-UAE project to develop Noonu atoll as an ultra-luxury tourism zone.

Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) had earlier extended a grant of USD 60 million for the project, which involves developing a 2.2-kilometre runway along with state-of-the-art facilities to cater international flight operations and private jets. A city hotel will also be built along with the airport.

Meanwhile, Madivaru airport is nearing completion too. Kuredu Holdings, which owns and operates several resorts in Lhaviyani atoll, is investing USD 13 million to develop the airport.

The project involves reclaiming some three hectares of land from the lagoon of Madivaru, building a 1.2-kilometre runway, and a training academy for aviation officials from flagship carrier Maldivian and seaplane operator Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA). The company can develop a city hotel to incentivise the airport operation.

MALDIVES TO SEE HIGHEST EVER HOTEL TRANSACTION ACTIVITY IN 2019

JOHN KEELLS TO OPEN FOURTH ‘CINNAMON’ RESORT IN MALDIVES

Maldives hospitality industry is on course to see its most active year with more than USD 450 million worth of resort transactions either completed or under offer, according to real estate consultancy firm JLL.

Sri Lankan conglomerate John Keells has announced plans to open its fourth resort in Maldives under its Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts brand.

Traditionally dominated by Asian investors, the Maldives is now attracting new sources of cross-border capital from Europe and the US. In the past six months, investments from new sources of capital represent USD 300 million, compared to the annual average deal volume of USD 120 million per year.

“The tightening of yields in core markets across the globe, particularly in Europe, is causing investors to look further afield in search of higher yielding opportunities.

Our clients outside of Asia are starting to show increasing interest in the Maldives, given its reputation as a soughtafter tourist destination.

We’re confident that investor demand will continue to rise and lift market sentiment,” Nihat Ercan, Managing Director and Head of Investment Sales, Asia, JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group, was quoted in a statement, as saying.

In April, German-based Seaside Hotels & Resorts acquired Finolhu Maldives, a resort in Baa atoll, for approximately USD 90 million. JLL Hotels & Hospitality acted on behalf of the seller, Coastline Group of Companies.

“The sale of Finolhu Maldives to Seaside Hotels & Resorts is our first transaction of a Maldivian resort to a European buyer. With a 12 per cent year-on-year increase in European visitor arrivals last year, European hoteliers see an opportunity to capitalise on the familiarity of their brands with these travellers and tour operators.

In the next nine to 12 months, we expect more of our European and American clients to enter the Maldives hospitality market,” Charlie MacIldowie, Vice President, JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group, said.

This is the second transaction

by JLL Hotels & Hospitality in the Maldives this year. In February, the real estate firm was involved in the sale of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island resort, then owned by local developer Crown Company, to American investment firm Blackstone.

In its annual report, John Keells Chairman Krishan Balendra said the group is in the process of finalising a sublease agreement with an undisclosed partner to open the new resort. In line with the group’s asset light strategy for the expansion of rooms under management, the property will be subleased for a period of 10 years with the option for further extensions, he added. “[The new resort is being opened] in light of the group’s concerted efforts to capitalise on the growth prospects of the Maldivian tourism industry,” Krishan Balendra told shareholders.

The new resort is set to be located in close proximity to the main Velana International Airport.

Sri Lanka’s largest hotel operator, John Keells currently owns and operates three resorts in Maldives: Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives, and Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon.

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REVIEW

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RAYS | THE INFLIGHT MAGAZINE OF MANTA AIR

NON-CHEMICAL NON-WHITENING NON-GREASY

82

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ISSUE 02 - 2019

83

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