Maldives business travel guide 2019

BusinessTravel Guide

MALDIVES

www.asiaoutlookmag.com

A luxury outpost in the Indian Ocean

M A L D I V E S

Maldives The hallmark of luxury tourism, Maldives and its array of private resort islands continues to attract growing numbers of visitors looking for the perfect retreat Writer: Tom Wadlow | Project Manager: Joe Palliser

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aldives, commonly referred to as Maldive Islands and formally known as Republic of Maldives, is a fascinating stretch of landmasses in the northern Indian Ocean.

The independent nation is made up of around 1,200 coral islands and sandbanks, of which 200 are inhabited, stretching more than 820 kilometres from north to south and 130 kilometres from east to west.

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This unique geography has resulted in a reputation for tourist luxury, with resorts often being housed on their own island and offering the perfect, allinclusive private getaway.

Permanent inhabitants are almost all Maldivian, an ethnic group formed as a result of various groups of settlers arriving throughout the country’s history, the first being Tamil and Sinhalese peoples from Sri Lanka and Southern India.

ASIA An important source of employment for locals derives from tourism, with visitors to the islands spoiled by the pristine beaches and opportunities to explore sea life and partake in water sports.

The past decade has seen the industry open up, not least because inhabitants have been granted the power to build guesthouses on their islands, providing competition to resorts which have traditionally dominated the accommodation scene here.

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/ BEACH POOL VILLA / PULLMAN MALDIVES MAAMUTAA RESORT / OPENING 25 SEPTEMBER 2019

PULLMAN MALDIVES MAAMUTAA WITH 122 UPSCALE AND STYLISH VILLAS AND 6 F&B OUTLETS, PULLMAN MALDIVES MAAMUTAA, IS A TRANSCENDENT ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT, FOCUSED ON DELIVERING AN INVIGORATING EXPERIENCE. THE TWO AQUA VILLAS WITH AN UNDERWATER ROOM EACH ARE DESIGNED TO LET YOU ENJOY THE MARINE LIFE OF THE PRISTINE ISLAND WHILE YOU RELAX AND UNWIND AT THE COMFORT OF YOUR ROOM.

OUR WORLD IS YOUR PLAYGROUND GAAFU ALIFU ATOLL 20219, MAAMUTAA ISLAND, MALDIVES T. +960 6820909 / E. h9924@accor.com / W. www.pullmanhotels.com

M A L D I V E S

A Brief History

An RAF Short Sunderland moored in the lagoon at Addu Atoll, during WWII

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rule during the mid-1500s and less than a year of South Indian control in the mid-18th century.

The country became independent from the UK in 1965 and, following a referendum in 1968, reformed into a republic which saw the abolishment of the sultanate.

Ibrahim Nasir, who had been Prime Minister since 1954, became President.

Ensuing decades have seen the nation stabilise and emerge into a modern economy, a period of peace barring an attempted coup in 1988.

This was the precursor to reform in the early 1990s, which saw presidential powers curbed and an anticorruption board established.

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THANKS TO THE uncovering of archaeological evidence, it is believed that the islands which make up Maldives were inhabited as early as 1500 BC. Around a thousand years later (500 BC) the first settlers arrived, and according to the accounts of Persian and Arab travellers, the early rulers of the country were women, the last queen taking to the throne in the early 16th century.

In terms of European colonialism, Maldives accepted a period of British protection from 1887 but has been largely an independent state throughout its known history, the exception being 15 years of Portuguese

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Isdhoo Lōmāfānu is the oldest copper-plate book to have been discovered in the Maldives to date. The book was written in AD 1194 (590 AH) in the Evēla form of the Divehi akuru, during the reign of Siri Fennaadheettha Mahaa Radun (Dhinei Kalaminja)

Another day dawns at Baros. The air is light and balmy.

It whispers welcome as the sun wakes up the sky. The lagoon beyond your sundeck invites a morning dip.

One of the first resorts to open in Maldives, Baros provides the finest facilities, impeccable cuisine and genuine, warm Maldivian hospitality.

Baros maintains a collection of handcrafted beachfront and overwater villas, built from timber and sandstone. The most romantic of all, the Baros Suites, are a newly introduced category of Villas. These Suites offer a haven of seclusion specially created to maintain the utmost tranquillity with classic design, for guests to enjoy the freedom of space as well as the inspiration of tropical nature and a chance to relax in solitude.

Baros is only 25-minutes by speedboat from the airport so you can be in your Villa within minutes of touchdown.

Tel:+960 664 26 72 www.baros.com

M A L D I V E S

The Business End DESPITE ITS REPUTATION as a luxury travel destination, Maldives is one of the world’s economically poorest nations, its developing economy based around fishing and boat building.

Tourism will be vital in the ongoing development of the nation. It is a fastgrowing sector of the economy and is able to attract visitors all-year round, especially in hubs like Male which is home to an increasing number of modern hotels.

A look into February 2019’s statistics is cause for promise, with figures showing

a 16.8 percent increase in visitor arrivals compared to the same month last year.

In total, 168,583 visitors were recorded, China accounting for 17.8 percent of the total and European markets some 55 percent.

As of February 2019, 137 resorts, 151 safari vessels, 12 hotels and 526 guesthouses of local islands were in operation, creating a capacity of 45,642 beds.

FACTS & FIGURES

Capital: Male Languages: Dhivehi (Maldivian) Area: 298 km² Population (2018): 410,300 GDP (2017): $4.175 billion Currency: rufiyaa Time zone: Maldives Time Dialling code: +960 Internet TLD: .mv Climate: tropical

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Occupancy rate averaged 76 percent with an average stay of just over six days.

A key area of focus will now be on extracting more revenue per arrival.

Despite an increase in visitor numbers, tax revenue from tourism goods and services actually fell slightly when compared to the beginning of 2018.

However, the fact that 20 new resorts are due to open this year should help to bring in more income.

REVIVE YOUR SENSES

Come alive in your new island home, where white sandy beaches meet pristine blue waters. Wake up to breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and dive into new adventures each day. At sunset, unwind and dine to a new rhythm with lush sounds at Café del Sol. Here, at the newly unveiled The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah – every day is a fresh new beat.

MOMENTS ENRICHED. TUNIS | MAURITIUS | ZANZIBAR | MALDIVES | BINTAN

CENIZARO.COM/THERESIDENCE

In Harmony with nature. eize The Day with Carpe Diem Cruises to experience the thrill and natural beauty of the Indian Ocean in one of the world’s best scuba diving and surf destinations. Year round the Maldives has an abundance of underwater attractions with one inspiring dive encounter after another.

If you are on a mission to live life to the full, seek the exceptional, thrive in the new, and in equal measure, enjoy the comforts of luxury while you discover everything The Maldives has to offer, then Carpe Diem Cruises is for you.

With our 3 boats, we connect the modern traveller to nature, with memories that will long be remembered. Immerse yourself in the beautiful shoals of butterfly fish and oriental sweetlips; drift into the deep blue with white tip sharks, hammerheads, manta rays and whale sharks; ride the currents along coral-filled overhangs with eagle rays, giant napoleans and blue marlin, or spot an octopus amongst the rocks.

Descend at dusk to be surrounded by nurse sharks or by daytime snorkel with the annual migration of manta rays in Hanifaru Bary, a UNESCO protected marine biosphere. We believe great scuba diving, wave surfing, fishing and tailor-made trips needn’t cost a fortune. Adventure, excitement and fun await you in the Maldives with Carpe Diem Cruises.

We take responsibility in protecting our environment and are active ghost net and lost fishing gear removers. During the last few years our crew have been involved in the rescue of several marine animals. Divers also have the opportunity to join us on specially scheduled “Dive With A Purpose Trips once a year with visiting scientists from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Marine biologists join us also on scheduled trips throughout the year where guests can learn about marine conservation, new research techniques and conduct reef surveys to ensure our underwater world remains resilient to threats from global warming.

The Maldives is known as one of the world’s best diving destinations.

Whale Sharks and Mantas, the top 2 on every divers bucket list

can be found year round. The Maldives is thought to have the largest population of Alfredi Mantas.

For the chance to snorkel with Manta Rays, our itineraries to Baa in summer visit the world famous UNESCO Biosphere Reserve where for a small park fee, guests can snorkel for an hour with these graceful creatures, creating lasting memories. This is an experience that will never be forgotten! In Sourth Ari, snorkel with the gentle giants of the ocean, the Whale Sharks and make your friends and families envious when you recount your adventures.

The Maldives has a year round tropical climate with average daily temperatures of 30 degrees and water temperatures of 27-28 degrees. There are two seasons in the Maldives - The Southwest Monsoon from May-October which generally sees weaker currents. The mantas and the whale sharks are found on the eastern side of the atolls during these periods where the visibility decreases due to the increased amount of plankton in the water. The wettest months

are June and July.

During the Northeast Monsoon from November - April, currents can be

stronger, especially in the far south where strong incoming currents attract sharks in their hundreds. Our itineraries to the far south are for more experienced divers due to the stronger currents. The driest months of the year are February and March.

Safari cruise adventures in the Maldives with Carpe Diem Cruises are remote, exotic and exciting. From our routes to the far north, the central atolls or the deep south, there is an itinerary to suit everybody and you are guaranteed to have an amazing diving holiday with us. In Harmony With Nature, Seize The Day, and book the trip of a lifetime on one of our 3 boats, The Carpe Diem, The Carpe Vita or The Carpe Novo.

Contact

T+(960) 3300883 info@carpediemmaldives.com www.carpediemmaldives.com

M A L D I V E S

Visit Maldives VISIT MALDIVES (OR Maldives Marketing & PR Corporation (MMPRC)) is mandated to promote all things tourism in the country, marketing the nation as a go-to destination for business travellers and holiday makers alike.

A year on from last talking to the association, we caught up with Thoyyib Mohamed, the organisation’s current Managing Director, who fills us in on recent advancements made and advice for those paying the nation a visit.

Asia Outlook (AsO): What key progress have you made since we last featured Visit Maldives?

Thoyyib Mohamed (TM): Last year our main mission was to promote Maldives in different market segments.

We have made successful campaigns and progress in this regard since we AsO: How would you say the last appeared in Asia Outlook. By the Maldives has developed in recent end of March 2019, Maldives recorded years as a business travel hub and what 482,972 tourists from all over the world are the key reasons behind its growing which is an increase of 15 percent appeal? compared to the same period last year.

TM: The resorts and hotels in Maldives are increasingly designed to cater for the business traveller.

Hotels are equipped with the latest technologies to meet their needs.

Important diplomatic and business meetings happen every day at these hotels in Male City. We believe the economic megaprojects of the country play a key role in opening Maldives as a hub for business. Maldives is a fastdeveloping country with great opportunities in the travel and hospitality industry, therefore, the developmental prospect combined with the amazing natural beauty attracts a lot of Thoyyib business travellers every year.

Mohamed AsO: Why, in your opinion, should someone visit the Maldives?

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TM: Maldives is definitely unlike any other country. The beautiful geographic features, the unique culture and the warm nature of the people are some of the unmistakeable characteristics of our nation. Whether you are looking for a quiet peaceful moment in the sun or you want to stand on a roaring wave, Maldives will definitely meet your expectations.

AsO: Are there any specific attractions, landmarks or places to eat and drink that you would recommend?

TM: Each and every atoll in the Maldives has a special and unique feature. It can be a place, tradition or even a food item. In the capital city you can enjoy almost every type of major cuisine from the world. There are unique underwater attractions such as spas, restaurants and rooms in the resorts. Since Maldives is 99 percent sea, the underwater beauty and dive points are also immensely popular among tourists.

M A L D I V E S

Visit Maldives AsO: What are the best ways of getting around the country?

TM: We currently have three domestic airlines in the Maldives; the national airline Maldivian and private airlines Manta Airline and Flyme travel to all areas within Maldives. Maldives also have the biggest seaplane fleet in the world, which is operated by Trans Maldivian Airways. Other than air travel, there are convenient public ferry systems and public land transport networks.

AsO: What trends are transforming the tourism industry in the Maldives at present? How are you responding to these trends?

TM: After the introduction of the guesthouses, it has quickly become one of the most popular products from Maldives. We are also working to market cultural and experience

tourism. Our statistics show an increase in solo travellers and social media travellers, and we are currently focusing to cater to these demographics as well.

AsO: How do you see the Maldives developing as a business travel hub over the next year to two years?

TM: As tourism is the largest contributor for the economy of our country, the government and the private investors have a mutual interest in the sustainability of the sector. The government is fully committed to expanding the international airport in order to increase arrivals. New resorts are developing, and many projects related to tourism are underway. Together with the Ministry of Tourism of the Maldives, MMPRC will embark on marketing campaigns and target new and emerging markets to increase exposure of the Maldives brand as a business and leisure destination.

AsO: Are there any plans or projects in the pipeline that you wish to highlight?

TM: MMPRC is currently engaging in marketing campaigns on social media and other internet platforms. Recently we signed a contract with Singapore Airlines for a joint campaign to explore and implement activities to promote Maldives. These are just a few of the many activities we have already started this year. We are also partaking in the regular roadshows, FAM trips and international market fairs.

AsO: Are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in the Maldives?

TM: Certainly, we see great potential for Maldives tourism to develop. Our marketing campaigns are not nearly as good as broad as some of our competitors’. Therefore, with the right approaches, we can certainly increase arrivals by a large amount.

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@furaveriresort

One Island. Many Memories.

Furaveri Island Resort & Spa is a tropical 23-hectare natural and un-reclaimed island situated in the exotic Raa Atoll near “Hanifaru Bay� a UNESCO biosphere reserve.

This sanctuary is just a mere 45-minute scenic seaplane ride from Velana International airport. The very spacious 107 villas offer uninterrupted privacy and indulgence.

Explore the culinary delights across the continents.

Classical favorites at Jaafaeiy to authentic Asian, Mexican and Maldivian delights prepared by local and international chefs.

Escape the routine and indulge in self-care, be it a visit to Furaveri Spa & wellness village to experience natural harmony, a work out at the gym, playing tennis or badminton, taking part in Zumba, relaxing sunrise or private Yoga sessions or simply try out one of our delights from the healthy food and beverage menu at wellness village.

Discover un spoilt paradise, its unbeatable aquatic life, thick greenery and its people. To break bread and have tea with a local family, go on a romantic sunset cruise, or explore the coral gardens and its inhabitants, Furaveri Island Resort & Spa is the ideal place to be.

This is where you are to visit if looking for a Truly Maldivian experience.

Furaveri Island Resort & Spa, 20012, Raa Atoll, Republic of Maldives T:+960 658-2718 E:info@furaveri.com W:furaveri.com

M A L D I V E S

In Focus Male THE MALDIVIAN CAPITAL Male is fascinating in that it represents a stark contrast to the isolated tranquillity of the rest of the island nation.

While the city is not awash with attractions, owing largely to its pintsized nature, it is the best place to meet locals and gain a flavour of Maldivian life. The fish market is thought as the sole of Male, a hive of activity and important source of produce for many of the city’s restaurants.

That said, it does contain some of the country’s most important cultural and historical landmarks. For example, the Old Friday Mosque is UNESCOprotected and said to be one of the best structures made out of coral anywhere in the world.

The early 20th century Muleeaage, or Sultan’s Palace, is another landmark worth visiting and is next to the Medhu

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Ziyaarath, the tomb of Abul Barakat Yoosuf Al Barbary, known for bringing the Islamic faith to Male in 1153.

More recent architecture can be found in the form of the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, which connects the capital to nearby Hulhule. The project has been slightly controversial, with many locals claiming it will disrupt the ferry service across the lagoon.

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CLUB MALDIVES – our second relaxing resort in the Maldives. Couples will appreciate the inviting atmosphere of our unique club resort on Funamadua Island in Gaafu-Alif Atoll. The perfect honeymoon with our unforgettable “Sweet Love Wedding” package, which includes a romantic wedding ceremony on the beach followed by 24 unforgettable hours of indulgence in our Presidential Suite.

CLUB NOONU – an entire island all to ourselves. We have created an exclusive paradise for couples and families on the island of Orivaru, Noonu Atoll. A scenic lagoon belongs to the club and the fine, sandy beach extends all around the island without a break.

For bookings and enquiries please contact your travel agent or maldives@robinson.com / Tel. +66 26 56 19 15 WWW.ASIAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

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M A L D I V E S

Out & About Another worthy destination is Dhigurah, an island with around 600 inhabitants and 10 guesthouses.

Home to a stunning, long stretch of beach, this clean and friendly locale is a tremendous base from which to enjoy a diving holiday. It also contains several cafes and boutique shops along the main street.

Also worth a mention is Utheemu Ganduvaru, childhood home of Maldivian icon Mohammed Thakurufaanu who helped to overthrow Portuguese rule in 1573.

Based in Haa Alifu, it is now a museum for visitors to enjoy and learn about his life.

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Fish market, Male

IAMGE: CC BY-SA 3.0

ASIDES FROM THE obvious lure of underwater exploring, Maldives offers plenty to do on terra firma.

A top sight and one of the most visited is the Old Friday Mosque in Male, the oldest of its kind in the country thought to be built around 1656. It is made from coral stone and houses a stunning interior, famed for its fine lacquer work and elaborate woodcarvings. Such is the site’s importance, it is listed by UNESCO. Staying in the capital, a good opportunity to see the hustle and bustle of everyday life can be found at the fish market. Described as the soul of Male, it is awash with the finest seafood including octopus, grouper and massive tuna.

The historic Kaani tree of Maroshi where the sails of the Kalhuoffummi were sewn

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M A L D I V E S

Outlook Recommends

“Unrivalled luxury, stunning white-sand beaches and an amazing underwater world make Maldives an obvious choice for a true holiday of a lifetime” – Lonely Planet

HOTELS AND HOSPITALITY Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort prides itself on being one of the best value accommodation options in the country. Owned and operated by global hotelier Accor, the resort houses 68 villas including 43 located over water and 25 scattered along the beach. The resort is built using local materials and features interior designs to reflect Maldivian culture.

Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort

Diamonds Thudufushi Situated a 20-minute scenic seaplane journey away from Male’s airport, Diamonds Thudufushi is made up of beach bungalows and overwater villas, the ideal venue for diving enthusiasts looking for a luxury choice of accommodation. This all-inclusive offering also includes a spa and other sports and excursions.

Pullmann Maldives Mamamutaa Set to be opened in September 2019, Pullman Maldives is located in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll in the south of Maldives. The resort will be an all-inclusive offering with a range of accommodation both on the beach, overwater and even underwater.

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Lying on the Unesco Biosphere Reserve in Baa Atoll, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort is operated by leading international hotel company Marriott. A new overwater hotel, guests are promised unbroken ocean views, a private deck and, in some cases, a private pool. According to Marriott, some 92 percent of guests recommend this hotel.

The Residence Maldives Featuring stunning over-water villas and private lagoons, The Residence Maldives is the ultimate place to base a relaxing holiday. Designed in harmony with the natural environment, the resort seamlessly blends traditional Maldivian architecture with contemporary elegance and modern comforts.

M A L D I V E S

Outlook Recommends HOTELS AND HOSPITALITY ROBINSON CLUB Maldives

One&Only Reethi Rah Based on one of the largest islands in North Male Atoll and surrounded by the Indian Ocean, One&Only Reethi Rah offers unrivalled privacy thanks to its all-villa setup. Guests enjoy luxury from the outset, including transfers which are arranged from Velana International Airport to the resort.

Situated in the Raa Atoll administrative division in the Maldives, Furaveri Island Resort & Spa occupies its own island and pairs luxury with a Maldivian twist.

The resort is the perfect basecamp for holiday makers looking to explore the country’s natural wonders.

Away from the bustle of Male, this hotel is spread across the Emboodhu Finolhu island (also known ad the Three Coconut Isle) in the middle of one of the largest lagoons in Maldives.

Conveniently located just 15 minutes away from the airport by speedboat.

Scoring an average of 93 out of 100 across nearly 2,000 reviews, ROBINSON CLUB Maldives lies on an island with pristine beaches within striking distance of beautiful coral reefs. The resort is billed as a perfect romantic getaway and is a popular wedding venue.

Baros Maldives Furaveri Island Resort & Spa

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa

Sat just 25 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Baros has been welcoming guests to its island since 1973, making it one of the first resorts to open in Maldives.

Baros prides itself on its provision of the highest standard of Maldivian hospitality.

Taj Coral Reef Resort & Spa Fit with its own coral reef and shipwreck to explore, the Taj Coral Reef Resort & Spa is a diver’s paradise, complemented by exotic ocean views and sophisticated, streamlined accommodation. The resort has many accolades, including a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence.

Hulhule Island Hotel W Hotels Plumeria Maldives 22

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Voyages Maldives, Narugis, Chandhanee Magu, Male’ 20191, Maldives T: +960 332 2019, F: +960 332 5336, E: info@voyagesmaldives.com, W: www.voyagesmaldives.com

M A L D I V E S

Outlook Recommends TRAVEL OPERATORS

FOOD & DRINK

Voyages Maldives With almost 40 years of experience, Voyages Maldives is a trusted provider of a number of tourist services across Maldives. From ground handling and ticketing to safari boat services and resort bookings, the company is able to take the stress of planning out of any visitor’s stay on the islands thanks to its team of experienced locals.

WATER-BASED ACTIVITIES Carpe Diem Maldives Owned by entrepreneurs Amir Mansoor and Agnes van Linden, Carpe Diem Maldives began life when the two met and decided to run services off of the safari boat that Mansoor had just finished building. The business has grown exponentially, the duo now running their own accommodation, Carpe Diem Beach Resort.

Citron by Lemongrass Blu Restaurant

Ocean Watersport Maldivian Maldivian is the national carrier of the Maldives and the country’s leading operator of domestic routes. The company, formally known as Island Aviation, runs flights to 11 airports around the archipelago and also journeys to India, Bangladesh, Thailand and China from its main hub at Velana International Airport.

5.8 Undersea Restaurant

Extreme Maldives

Ithaa Undersea Restaurant Muraka Symphony Lagoon 24

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Aquaventure Dive Center

M A L D I V E S

Transport Links Hulhule

Panorama of capital Male as seen from Hulhule Ferry Terminal

THE ISLAND OF Hulhule, two kilometres from Male, is home to Velana International Airport, transit hub for almost all flights in and out of Maldives. Two other international airports, Hanimaadhoo and Gan, also serve respective foreign markets in India and Sri Lanka.

Domestic routes are served by national carrier Maldivian and FlyMe, while Mega Maldives Airlines flies into Beijing and Shanghai. Air is the most efficient way of getting between the islands, with 12 airports scattered around the archipelago.

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Remoter areas can be reached by seaplane, a great way to soak up views of the islands, reefs and lagoons, while boats are another common way of navigating Maldives.

On the islands themselves, bicycles are the best way to get from A to B. These are often supplied to guests free of charge, and mean that you can easily enjoy a holiday here without having to get into a car or hop on a bus.

Male and Addu City are the only places where a bus service is necessary, the main purpose being

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to connect passengers to airports and seaplane terminals. Speedboat transfers are another option for those looking to get to and from these air transit hubs.

IMAGE BY CARPORT - OWN WORK, CC BY-SA 3.0

IMAGE BY USHAU97 - OWN WORK, CC BY-SA 3.0

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Maldives - Located within the Airport Island and it is just 2 mins drive or 8 mins walk from Velana International Airport.

- Natural private beach and huge swimming pool.

Biggest landscape in the entire Male.

- Big spacious rooms size from 26sqm to 55sqm.

- Four (4) of Food & Beverage Outlets and Bars.

- Complimentary shuttle bus to and from Airport and Male Town.

- All room inclusive of High Speed Internet (Wifi) - Day use rates available - Hotel facilities include Gym, Tennis Court, putting green, basketball court and many more.

Luxurious Ocean-Facing

Guest Rooms & Suites

P.O. Box 2118, Male’, Republic of Maldives Tel: +960 333 0888 | Fax: +960 333 0777 | Email: sales@hih.com.mv | Web: www.hih.com.mv @hihmaldives

@maldiveshih

@hihmv

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M A L D I V E S

Landmark Attractions Thulusdhoo

“Thulusdhoo has traditionally been an industrious island, known for manufacturing of bodu beru (big drums), for its salted-fish warehouse and for its Coca-Cola factory, the only one in the world where the drink is made from desalinated water” – Lonely Planet

Old Friday Mosque

Thulusdhoo

National Museum

“The National Museum of Maldives is located at Sultan Park in Male, which was the former palace of the Sultan of Maldives. It houses several well-kept artefacts of Maldivian culture, including coins, royal antiques, furniture, items of clothing, embellishments and armaments” – Make My Trip

China-Maldives Friendship Bridge

“This incredibly impressive piece of engineering connects Male to the airport island of Hulhule, but unlike most of the causeways connecting islands elsewhere in the country, this $250 million project goes over the open sea, meaning that vast concrete supports have been planted in the seabed” – Lonely Planet

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IMAGE BY CARPORT - OWN WORK, CC BY-SA 3.0

“The mosque building is the biggest and one of the finest coral stone buildings in the world. In 2008 UNESCO included Male Friday Mosque and its complex in its Tentative World Heritage List” – UNESCO

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THE WORLD OF WOW Cast away yet connected. Natural yet designed. Secluded yet welcoming. W Maldives is a luxury private island resort, where style flirts with soul in a wonderland of white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons and breathtaking reefs. Pamper yourself with lavish Maldivian living. Discover true pampering at the overwater AWAY Spa. Go gourmet at our six eateries and bars. Bask in the sun on the escape’s beaches, partake in adrenaline-filled water sports, or explore the island’s private reef, declared one of the best house reef in the Maldives. While the W brand’s promised service to guests transforms the ordinary into an extraordinary.

Whatever you want. Wherever you want it.

+960 666-2222 reservations.wmaldives@whotels.com www.wmaldives.com

Enjoy the Paradise A tropical sea, the exuberance of nature, and the stark contrast of light and colours, for a heaven that can’t wait.

visit on: www.gangehi.com

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BusinessTravel Guide joe.palliser@outlookpublishing.com

+44 (0)1603 959 676

jordan.levey@outlookpublishing.com

+44 (0)1603 959 668

krisha.canlas@outlookpublishing.com

+44 (0)1603 959 682

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+44 (0)1603 959 669

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