The Small Maldives Island Co Unveils Easter Programmes Across Its Resorts
The Small Maldives Island Co (TSMIC) has revealed a variety of action-packed Easter experiences across its trio of exquisite island resorts, the Huvafen Fushi, Amilla Fushi and Finolhu.
Families can enter a world of pure imagination with Amilla’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-inspired programme, or step through the looking glass into Finolhu’s twist on Alice in Wonderland. Adults-only icon Huvafen Fushi meanwhile beckons couples looking for a seductive, grown-up escape.
Amilla Fushi’s Easter celebrations kicks off with the resort’s new kids Football Training Camp by Australian professionals FUTBOLTEC. The exclusive three day camp invites all ages to train and perfect their skills through elite coaching on the island’s very own full-sized pitch.
Celebrations continue as the island transforms into a Willy Wonka-themed imaginarium, complete with mysterious Golden Tickets and of course, the odd chocolate egg or two. Amilla’s Willy Wonka Easter Eggs-travaganza will see children of all ages treated to a host of themed activities across the island, including Easter Egg making craft sessions, face-painting and an egg hunt. The line-up of live entertainment includes Ricky M, resident DJ at Feeling Koi and returning band Gypsy Queens in different locations of the resort.
As well as joining the White Rabbit for an Easter Egg Hunt Carnival around the island’s enchanted gardens, families at fun-loving island resort, Finolhu, can join
beloved characters for a themed Fashion Parade, Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at the #1OAK Beach Club and Wonderland arts and crafts.
After a busy day of Easter activities, adults can head to the tranquil setting of the Cove Club to enjoy a relaxing massage or evening yoga session on the sandbank.
Discerning sophisticates seeking an escape from the Easter frenzy of family fun will be drawn to luxury Maldives icon Huvafen Fushi. Recently ‘reawakened’ in the arms of The Small Maldives Island Co, and now exclusively for over 21s, Huvafen Fushi tempts guests with an exclusive ‘Blissful Easter’ spa experience – an enriching 90 minute Cocoa body scrub to invigorate the skin and improve circulation. The whole experience can be taken on the beach or at the resort’s underwater spa – the only one in the world.
Founded in 2012 by Chairman Michael Flynn, The Small Maldives Island Co. (TSMIC) is “the soul” of the Three exemplary new island resorts it manages. With over 30 years experience in Maldivian tourism, TSMIC has looked beyond tired norms and attention-seeking fads to put what guests really want at the heart of everything, a fresh approach to Maldives hospitality.
Coastline Investments, with 40-years experience in Maldivian tourism, chose to partner with The Small Maldives Island Co. as their island custodians. With a strong philosophy focused on making small details great, they offer the easy, comfortable and natural style that’s quintessentially Maldivian.
Soneva Surf The World’s First Fully Sustainable Surf Programme
Soneva, a luxury resort operator, has announced plans to launch the world’s first fully sustainable surf programme, Soneva Surf, in May 2018.
Soneva Surf is pioneering luxurious yet sustainable surfing, using eco-friendly surfboards, leashes, fins, rash guards, sunscreen and board wax. Soneva encourages guests who are interested in surfing to leave their surfing equipment at home and use the eco-friendly brands that were carefully selected by Soneva. These products will also available for sale at the resorts.
The programme aims to tap into the growing interest in the Maldives as a surfing destination and is planned to launch on the first day of the Maldivian surfing season, which spans May through to October.
“Surfing here is about the search and discovery of something that is secretive and pristine. This is something that is so rare to find in the world these days. What is incredible is that this is something that we have on our doorstep,” said Sunny Yang, Soneva Surf’s Manager.
“Our mission is to show surfers that sustainable surfing can be achieved without sacrificing the quality of the experience.”
As a part of the programme, Soneva will be working with the local communities to help support the further growth and development of surfing across the Maldives in an effort to encourage the younger generation to understand the power and vulnerability of their ocean home. Soneva will be working with partners to help provide equipment, opportunities and training for aspiring Maldivian surfers, including hosting surfing events in the future.
Guests will be able to take part in Soneva Surf at both of Soneva’s Maldives properties; Soneva Fushi in the Baa Atoll and Soneva Jani in the Noonu Atoll. Soneva in Aqua, the resorts’ luxury charter yacht, will also offer a Surfing Charter within both atolls.
According to Soneva, they discovered 13 surfing spots in the Baa Atoll and 11 in the Noonu Atoll by the Soneva team, as they are more suited to intermediate to advanced surfers, but beginners will also find surfing spots that cater to their needs.
Each of these locations is relatively unknown, meaning they are less traveled, uncrowded and secret – and these
secret Soneva surfing spots will only be revealed to resort guests who book the surfing package, in order to keep them uncrowded and pristine for future guests.
Soneva, formerly Soneva Resorts and Residences, is a resort chain founded by Sonu Shivdasani and his wife, Eva Malmström Shivdasani in 1995. Known for its luxurious properties, Soneva aims to be sustainable, and was one of the first resorts to charge a 2% carbon levy on room revenue, which is donated to the Soneva Foundation.
The company currently owns and manages Soneva Fushi, located in the Baa Atoll, Soneva Jani, located in the Noonu Atoll, both in the Maldives and Soneva Kiri in Koh Kood, Thailand. It also owns and manages a two bedroom luxury yacht, Soneva in Aqua.
New White Platinum Plan at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa
An all-round carefree package for the highest demands awaits guests at the Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa in the Maldives. With its new extensive White Platinum Plan, the luxury resort caters to the needs of all visitors, from transfers to culinary delights, fine drinks and experiences around the resort. Upon arrival at the airport, the Hideaway team warmly welcomes you and takes you by speedboat to the island of Dhonakulhi. On site for the guest is a wide selection of drinks, wines, champagne, cocktails, juices etc. ready, as well as breakfast, two-course lunch menus, dinner and snacks in between. Fishing, snorkeling or a dolphin tour - for guests to explore the island, a trip is included in each stay. Those, who prefer to take it easy, can relax with a 60-minute Balinese massage. Athletes also get their money’s worth at the Hideaway Sports Complex: volleyball, basketball, football, gym and tennis courts, including a 60- minute training session, are ready to be played out. Children can enjoy the Aqua Water Park with trampolines and water slides, and for the youngest, the White Platinum Plan also includes access to the Kids Club.
Gili Lankanfushi Hosts Endurance Event to Mark Global Recycling Day
The marine biology team at Gili Lankanfushi will be organising an endurance event named “Paddle against plastic” on Global Recycling Day as a continuous effort on our stand against plastic.
According to the resort, a team of hosts from the resort will undergo a 12 km Stand Up Paddle (SUP) during this event to raise awareness about the overuse of single use plastic in the Maldives.
“This endurance event aims to inspire others to reduce their dependence on plastic by physically collecting plastic from ocean surface whilst undergoing an enduring paddle to recognise our dedication to the cause.” Reads a statement by Gili Lankanfushi.
The Global Recycling Day 2 is an initiative by the Bureau of International Recycling which aims to drive awareness and action around the urgent need to recycle more effectively around the world, to assure the future of our planet.
Climate change is the major, overriding, environmental issue of the world at present and the recycling industry is at the heart of the change that is needed to combat its devastating effects. Recycling (whether industrial or at home) saves more CO2 emissions each year compared to the entire
aviation industry, while simultaneously protecting the earth’s valuable natural resources.
Gili Lankanfushi is a resort that aims to become aware of one’s natural and cultural surroundings, as well as to be responsible in taking care of them.The resort encourages its guests to practice being sustainable during their stay and to adopt this way of living in their daily lives by taking home these responsible initiatives to practice.
Located in the North Malé Atoll, Gili Lankanfushi opened in 2000 as the original over-water resort, Soneva Gili. In 2012, the island was acquired by HPL (Hotel Properties Limited), a Singapore-based company investing in hotels, lifestyle and properties around the world.
Voted number one hotel in the world by TripAdvisor in 2015, Gili Lankanfushi is an easy 20-minute speedboat transfer from Velana International Airport. Set in the middle of its own lagoon, guests enjoy a barefoot existence with 360-degree views of the Indian Ocean. Gili Lankanfushi’s 45 overwater villas, including the vast and secluded Private Reserve, offer unrivalled privacy.
Diamond Resort Maldives Teaches Young Students the Art of Hospitality
Switzerland based Planhotel Hospitality Group who operates Diamonds Resort Thudufushi & Athuruga in the Maldives introduced its new International Hotel School in collaboration last year with the Amelia Rosso Foundation.
This 1-week program, now in its second year of function, is designed to introduce the resort and tourism industry to young Maldivian adults, by teaching them the fundamentals of the job.
This year, 12 highly motivated students had the chance to learn from two renowned hospitality teachers from Switzerland, Mr. Paolo Zanga, who taught them about the Food & Beverage Department, as well as from Mr. Aleandro Zaccheo about hygiene measures in a resort. Subjects studied varied from table setting to the behaviour to adopt in a service environment.
On Saturday, 24th February, the small group visited the luxurious Diamonds Thudufusi Beach & Water Villas, accompanied by their teachers. They had the chance to visit the resort thoroughly, including the backstage scene, and to meet with employees who shared their experience working for the resort. Amongst these employees, Diamonds Resorts Executive Chef Giacomo Gaspari and Chef Thomas Dorfer from Jeunes Restaurateurs (JRE) shared their expertise about working in the industry and the vast opportunities for advancement.
The level of experience varied amongst the students from the group, but they were all delighted to have the chance to learn some new skills. They mentioned that one of the most important things they learned during the course is to always be smiling, as it is vital to a good service, and that they found the art of setting a table to be the most interesting subject they have learned.
The Maldivian students showed a high interest for the industry and most of them expressed a desire to work in a resort following the completion of this program.
Planhotel Hospitality Group has planned to carry on this program for a total of four years and hopes to be welcoming even more eager students next year for the third edition.
Founded in 1997 in Lugano, site of the Group’s headquarters, the Planhotel Hospitality Group has been operating in the tourism sector for over 20 years as a leading hotel management company for resorts and hotels in the Indian Ocean.
The group focuses on management, marketing strategies and distribution, as well as developing the network of its Diamonds Resorts, Sandies Resorts & Hotels and other independent hotels.
Lufthansa Group Eyes New Asia-Pacific Routes
Lufthansa Group is looking to add more capacity into Asia-Pacific as demand for air travel grows in the region.
“We are focusing on the development in Asia-Pacific, China, Japan, Southeast Asia and India to be the main drivers for growth,” Lufthansa’s Vice President of Sales for Asia and Pacific Mr. Dieter Vranckx told FlightGlobal.
He adds that growth in China - particularly at Beijing - has been strong, while Chengdu, Shenzhen, Guangzhou and Shenyang “are on our watchlist”.
In the shorter-term, the Group is looking to expand its presence at Tokyo Haneda International Airport. Austrian Airlines will reinstate its Vienna-Tokyo link in mid May, around 20 months after suspending it.
Austrian will use Boeing 777s featuring a premium economy cabin on five-times weekly services.
Mr. Dieter Vranckx’s comments after Lufthansa recommenced a five-times weekly Singapore-Munich service using Airbus A350-900s on 28 March following a six-year hiatus.
The new service increases its capacity by 40% on Singapore-Germany routes, operated under its joint venture with Star Alliance partner Singapore Airlines.
“There is definitely a growing demand for this region. Additionally, the feeder traffic we get from Australia via the joint-venture with Singapore Airlines has contributed to this expansion,” says Mr. Dieter Vranckx.
Also he added, “We know there are slot restrictions at the major airports, but nonetheless we always aim at growing following from last year’s strong numbers to Asia-Pacific that justify adding more capacity.”
Singapore Airlines Takes Delivery of World’s First Boeing 787-10
Singapore Airlines (SIA) has taken delivery of its first Boeing 787-10 from the manufacturer’s production facility in North Charleston, South Carolina. SIA is the world’s first airline to take delivery of Boeing’s newest aircraft variant, which is due to enter commercial service from April 2018.
The aircraft – the first of 49 787-10s that SIA has on firm order - was formally delivered at a ceremony today in North Charleston (evening of 25 March 2018 local time) attended by SIA CEO, Mr. Goh Choon Phong. Also in attendance were Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Mr. Kevin McAllister, Rolls-Royce Director Customers and Services – Civil Aerospace Mr. Dominic Horwood, some three thousand Boeing employees as well as invited guests.
“It is an honour for us to be the world’s first airline to take delivery of this amazing aircraft. The 787-10 is indeed a magnificent piece of engineering and truly a work of art. It will be an important element in our overall growth strategy, enabling us to expand our network and strengthen our operations,” said Mr. Goh at the delivery event.
“The delivery of the first 787-10 underscores our longstanding commitment to
operate a modern fleet and marks the start of a new chapter in our shared story with Boeing.”
Mr. McAllister added: “This is a big day for all of us at Boeing and for our global supplier partners. We are thrilled to deliver the first 787-10 Dreamliner to Singapore Airlines, one of the world’s leading carriers. And we are honoured by Singapore Airlines’ partnership and trust, as reflected by their repeated orders for the Dreamliner.”
SIA’s 787-10s will be used for flights up to eight hours. Osaka and Perth will be the first scheduled destinations to be served by the new aircraft, from May 2018. Prior to the introduction of these services, the aircraft will be operated on selected flights to Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur for crew training purposes.
The 787-10s will feature SIA’s new regional cabin products, configured with 337 seats in two classes, featuring 36 Business Class and 301 Economy Class seats. The new products will be unveiled at an arrival ceremony in Singapore on 28 March 2018, after the aircraft’s delivery flight from North Charleston via Osaka. The Guestof-Honour for this event will be Mr. Khaw Boon Wan, Singapore’s Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Minister for Transport.
Constructed using lightweight composite materials, the 68-metre 787-10 is the longest variant of Boeing’s Dreamliner range of aircraft. With exceptional operating efficiency and advanced technology, the newest addition to the Airline’s fleet is designed to offer a more tranquil cabin experience. Customers can look forward to customisable lighting preferences with large electronically dimmable windows, cleaner air, a quieter and smoother ride.
SIA is the largest customer for the 787-10. Low-cost subsidiary Scoot is already an operator of both 787-8s and 787-9s, making SIA the first airline group in the world to operate all three variants of Boeing’s Dreamliner family of aircraft.
In addition to the 49 firm-ordered 787-10s, SIA has a firm order with Boeing for 20 777-9s, which are due for delivery from the 2021/22 financial year.
Hotel and Restaurant Association of Bhutan (HRAB) Endorses South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2018
Hotel and Restaurant Association of Bhutan (HRAB) has endorsed South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2018.
Hotel and Restaurant Association of Bhutan (HRAB) is a federation of HOTELS and Restaurants from all over
Maldives
the country. Members range from restaurants to small family owned properties to major convention hotels. It is a non-profit, apolitical, mutual benefit organisation formed in September 2007.
SATA is the most prestigious award for travel and tourism stakeholders in the South Asia region. The brand is the first of its kind with affiliations from regional associations ensuring the process within a smooth and having transparent procedure. Having a panel of senior representatives from destinations with firm knowledge and background of the industry making it unique and rich when honoured.
According to Highrise, the organisers of the event, the third edition of the award, SATA 2018, is scheduled to be held in Mumbai, India in October. This year’s awards consist of 37 categories in 10 segments and nominations were accepted till 15th March 2018 via regional focal points or through a direct email to nominee@ satravelawards.com and online voting commenced from 26th March 2018 till 30th June 2018.
Highrise reports top brands operating in the South
Asian region have already nominated their properties for this prestigious awards.
The regional recognition brand , SATA is currently endorsed by the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Sri Lanka (FCCISL), Colombo Chamber of Commerce (CCC), Maldives Marketing & PR Corporation (MMPRC), Confederation of Accredited Tour Operators (India), Association of Travel Agents (ATA) Maldives, Association of Travel and Tour Operators India (ATTOI), Association of Professional’s in Tourism (APT, India), Kerala Hotel General Managers Club (KHGMC), Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), Liveaboard Association of Maldives (LAM) and India Association of Tour Operators (IATO).
Highrise was formed in 2007 as a graphic design and event management company and quickly expanded into a full fledge marketing firm operating from Male’, Maldives & Colombo, Sri Lanka. Highrise offers comprehensive solutions and holistic approaches to challenges, that have made a significant difference to many well established organisations.
Exhibits at Seafood Expo North America
Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture and Maldives Fisheries Promotion Board together with Fisheries industry partners represented Maldives at Seafood Expo North America which was held from 11th March till 13th March in Boston, Massachusetts.
Seafood Expo North America is the largest seafood industry event of its kind on the continent where suppliers from all around the world can bring their products to buyers from restaurants, supermarkets, catering firms, seafood markets, hotels, airlines, cruise lines and more.
According to the event’s organiser Diversified Communications, the 2018 edition of the exposition features 1,341 exhibiting companies from 57 countries, including Fiji, Oman, Ukraine, and Venezuela with more than 258,360 net square feet of exhibit space.
“It is very impressive to see a packed convention centre with so many companies presenting their seafood products, services or processing equipment to the North American market,” said Mr. Wynter Courmont, Event Director for Diversified Communications.
“Walking the exhibit floor, you can see, hear, and
feel the pulse of the seafood industry. Through in-person conversations and meetings, as well as in the structured conference program, people can get a clear sense of the trends their peers are excited about, and engage in productive conversations about emerging challenges.”
The three-day expo consists of comprehensive conference program with more than 25 sessions, as well as a series of special events including a master class presentation, a chef demonstration, the 12th Oyster Shucking Competition and the Seafood Excellence Awards competition for Best New Retail Product and Best New Foodservice Product.
Maldives Showcase in Colombo, Sri Lanka
The first edition of Maldives showcase has been scheduled to take place at Taj Samudra, Colombo from July 26th to 27th 2018. Maldives Showcase is organised by Highrise in association with Maldives Association of Travel Agents & Tour Operators (MATATO). The event was launched during late 2017.
The event will showcase businesses and individuals from various industries of the Maldives ranging from tourism, trade, talent and F&B sectors.
According to Highrise, the event organisers of the Maldives showcase, exhibiting and sponsorship opportunities are available. They have revealed that the event sponsorship would only include 1 Main Sponsor and 2 Co-Sponsors.
According to the General Manager, Mr. Mohamed Shamin “Many companies have already expressed their interest towards the event and have reached us. As such, we invite all parties to take part and make use of this opportunity. Due to limited availability, it will be served on first come first serve basis.” A 2x2
meter shell scheme and bare spaces will be available for booking. Interested parties are advised to call +960 7980088 or to email: manager@hightiseint. com for more information about the event and booking booths.
Highrise was formed in 2007 as a graphic design and event management company and quickly expanded into a full fledge marketing firm operating from Male’, Maldives & Colombo, Sri Lanka. Highrise offers comprehensive solutions and holistic approaches to challenges, that have made a significant difference to many well established organisations.
In addition to hosting The Maldives Showcase, Highrise has successfully initiated and organised successful local and international events such as Maldives Living Expo, Maldives F&B Show, Vacations Expo, Print & Advertising Service Show, South Asian Travel Awards (SATA), Sounds of Maldives to name a few.
Jumeirah Launches Maldives First Ice Rink
Travellers heading to the Maldives are in for surprise as Jumeirah Vittaveli entertains their guests with the resort’s new icy wonderland while still being bordered by the tropics of the sandy coastline.
There are few sights more incongruous than an ice rink smack in the middle of the Indian Ocean. But an 87-square meter rink has been built on Jumeirah Vittaveli’s famous sands, and despite the country’s average temperatures of 81 degrees Fahrenheit, this rink won’t melt away and is the first of its kind in Maldives.
An experience unlike any other, guests at the resort can take a dip in the warm waters of the South Malé Atoll, then step off the powdery white beach and into a pair of skates to glide over the glistening ice skating rink.
In its quest to constantly surprise guests, the resort management has found a way to transport winter cheer into a tropical
climate while still adhering to their core beliefs as a property aiming to improve its sustainability wherever possible. The ice rink, however, is perhaps the most novel attraction, since skaters have the unique opportunity to glide along the ice while watching the stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
“I congratulate the entire team here at Jumeirah Vittaveli for having managed to introduce a world-first to the Maldives – an eco-friendly ice skating rink on a tropical island is a true expression of our aim to ‘Wow’ our guests, not just with genuine service from the heart but with innovative additions to our resort that provide extraordinary experiences to the adventurous traveller,” said General Manager Mr. Amit Majumder.
“An immense thank you also goes to the inimitable Evgeni Plushenko and his son Aleksander – we are honoured that such a world class skater and enthralling performer as Evgeni was the first to leave
the many happy faces of children and adults alike when they try out our beachside ice rink, while looking out over the ocean.”
Unlike most artificial ice rinks, Jumeirah’s version is made using all synthetic materials, allowing the resort to forgo the expenses of maintaining a sheet of ice in tropical weather. The artificial rink was developed by Swiss company Glice, a company that manufactures artificial ice plates that gives the feeling of skating on real ice, which do not require water or electricity to operate it.
Skating sessions are 2 hours long and operate daily from 1200 hrs to 1800 hrs and costs USD 50 including skating, protective gear and ice cream sundae.
A 20-minute boat ride from Velana International Airport, Jumeirah Vittaveli offers unmatched diversity, subtle luxury and personalised exploration, whether for
an intimate escape or an indulgent family retreat.
The resort features beach-side and overwater villas, all which boasts stunning interiors with private pools and access to the sandy shores or glistening waters. The sprawling 5-bedroom Royal Residence comes with private beach, spa, gym, two swimming pools and its own dedicated restaurant.
Impeccable choice and seamless service shape the character of this resort paradise, where every detail has been meticulously crafted to inspire journeys of discovery and enjoyment. A rejuvenating and relaxing Spa, a well-equipped overwater gymnasium, a children’s club and 5 star PADI dive centre mean guests are always able to try something new.
his mark on our rink! I look forward to seeing
Aspiring chefs team departs to for annual culinary training
Lily International has provided Six Chefs working in Maldives the opportunity to undergo the training sessions at, one of the world’s most iconic institutes in Germany.
SchapfenMühle is one of the oldest companies in the industry and are highly regarded company with state of the art facilities and filled with experts of the industry. The company is a strong upholder of traditional values by mastering new technologies without forgetting the roots of their trade and since its foundation in 1452, SchapfenMühle has been one of the most prominent members of the baking trade. It is also an international provider with a broad range of innovative products, with a wide-ranging service portfolio.
“We feel quite excited and grateful for being provided with the opportunity take part in this workshop. We are honoured to be able to experience and learn straight from experienced trainers and staffs from SchapfenMühle, it will bring good improvement to our knowledge as well,” said one of the chefs who participated in this year’s training sessions.
“It is a good opportunity for everybody because Maldives economy depends on the tourism industry and the delicacy of the cuisines offered and the services provided in Maldives plays a vital role for the repeated visitors, which in turn increases the revenue of the Country.”
According to Lily International, the training sessions were held for five days with participants from countries across the world and supplies for the cuisines were supplied by none other than SchapfenMühle.
In addition to learning about the significance of healthy foods and how to create such cuisines the participants also learned about the new developments of the F&B industry in SchapfenMühle, and its facilities based in Ulm, which is not far from Munich.
Lily International has been providing this opportunity to chefs since 2014 with the purpose of renewing and modernising
the knowledge of chefs who are nominated from different resorts and hotels across the country get a better understanding of the new trends being developed across Europe’s bakery and pastry sector.
Lily International was established on 10 October 2000 and is a privately owned, importer and distributor of high quality internationally prominent brands of food and beverage, personal care, hygiene and cosmetics products.Lily International is a subsidiary company of the “Lily Group” which was established 35 years ago and is a significant market player in the wholesale, shipping, tourism and many other sectors.
Lily International works with companies in over 40 countries around the world. Some of the major international brands represented by Lily International includes, Fonterra, Nestle’, Evian, San Pellegrino, Perrier, Diversey and many more.
As a staunch supporter of charity and other social events, Lily International believes in its contribution towards socioeconomic growth of the nation.
PATA Face of the Future 2018 Abdulla Ghiyas President of MATATO
Abdulla Ghiyas, President of the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) – one of the most active NGOs in the Maldives dedicated to fostering and promoting the sub industry of local travel agents, is today named as the 2018 PATA Face of the Future. This is the most prestigious honour open to young tourism professionals in the Asia Pacific region.
Dr. Mario Hardy, CEO of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), said - “I would like to congratulate Abdulla on winning the 2018 PATA Face of the Future Award. His clear commitment to the responsible development of travel and tourism in the Asia Pacific region is highlighted by his more than 10 years of service with MATATO and his many other activities and partnerships in the industry. In addition, his unique experience and insights will be a welcome addition to the Executive Board.”
As the 2018 PATA Face of the Future, Abdulla will have extensive exposure at the PATA Annual Summit 2018 from May 17-20 in Gangneung, Korea (ROK). He will be one of the speakers at the PATA Youth Symposium, be interviewed by BBC World News Presenter & Producer Sharanjit Leyl at the one-day conference and be one of the debaters at the UNWTO/PATA Leaders Debate. Abdulla will also be invited to join the 2018/2019 PATA Executive Board as a non-voting member and observer.
“I am truly overwhelmed and humbled to have been recognised with the prestigious PATA Face of the Future Award. This award is for the hard-working team at MATATO and Inner Maldives Holidays, and every dreamer out there for believing that there is always room for thinking bigger, pushing limits and imagining the impossible,” said Abdulla. “Today we are living in an era of ever evolving challenges and changes. The role of youth and students across the globe is being redefined and I believe younger generations can play a vital role in
travel and tourism. I look forward to work together with PATA and other travel industry stakeholders to further the role of youth and inspire them in joining this movement.”
Abdulla is a young energetic disrupter in the Maldivian tourism industry, who has changed the tourism landscape in the last few years by giving a voice to all Small Medium Enterprises in the industry.
MATATO is today considered the leading NGO in the Maldives with the association engaged in various activities such as advocacy and lobbying, training and workshops, fam trips, loan schemes via different financial institutions, recognition programs such as Awards, travel conferences and forums, publications and much more. The association last year organised destination stands and road shows, exhibiting brand Maldives in 14 countries around the world.
Abdulla is also a serial entrepreneur engaged in leading travel businesses and startups. He is the Deputy Managing Director of Inner Maldives Holidays, one of the largest inbound and outbound travel agency in Maldives. He is also a Director for Ace Travels Maldives and Spence Maldives, who are in a joint venture with Sri Lankan blue chip conglomerate Aitken Spence PLC. Having 14 years of experience in the travel and tourism industry, Abdulla was the youngest Board Director of the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) from 2014 to 2017. He was also named by the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Maldives as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Persons in Maldives in 2010 for his role in business turnaround in Inner Maldives Holiday. Abdulla also contributes to the Consulate of the Republic of Seychelles to the Maldives as the Deputy.
For bookings or information contact: info@bestdivesmaldives.com
Luxury Yacht Charter Latest arrival: Luxury Yacht Seven Seas Brand: Dominator 64S
Length: 65 feet Cabins: 3
Casa Mia Beauty at the Heart of the Maldives
At the heart of Alif Alif Atoll, The Island Chief discovered a hidden Gem at Mathiveri Island. Casa Mia is a Guest House which far exceeds the demands of your average guest house offering guests service on par with that of an entry level resort.
Casa Mia is strategically located right on the outskirts of the islands Bikini Beach, where guests can cross the ocean, canoe or ride along the ocean on a seadoo to enjoy a private picnic on a beautiful and untouched sand bank just minutes away from the beach.
At Casa Mia Guests will be privileged to enjoy the essence of the Maldives at it truest and most beautiful. Being Located on the island of Mathiveri with a population of barely 900 from which you would be lucky to see even 50 people on an average day out exploring. It is almost like having a whole island for yourself.
The island of Mathiveri is located on the North Ari Atoll, which is about a
30-minute seaplane ride, 1 hour 30 min by speed boat or 6 hours through public from the capital city, Male’. Given the increasing number of speed boat operators travelling between islands getting to mathiveri island was not too difficult and the Casa Mia staff are always available to help you arrange transfers to the island.
The real beauty of the retreat lies in the fact that the property resides in a location where nature is almost entirely untouched with locals comfortably living in houses made of stone and coral, sipping on coconut, fishing in the morning and staying true to the countries origins and way of life.
Its is not only a cultural trip but an all in one exotic experience because once you enter through the gates of Casa Mia you enter into a lush garden of flowers, passion fruit groves, lime trees and plethora of plants. Walking through the first thing you will notice is the beautiful salt water pool from which you just wouldn’t want to get out from. The lack of light pollution in the night time leaves the sky glowing with pretty twinkles of stars dancing
in the sky and you get a full view of it from the pool.
At Casa Mia a fully operational restaurant serving buffet meals with just the right amount of food so as not overwhelm but still keeping you fully satisfied really puts you at ease. During the three days we stayed we always had the choice of two different vegetable dishes, two main dishes and two forms of meat to chose from. Aside from the delicious variety of soup we had during lunch and dinner, Salads, Fruits and a scrumptious set of desserts were also available at every meal.
The beach overlooking the property is so clear that it littoral sparkles under the sun light. The reefs are healthy and the ocean is teaming with marine life. Even as you walk and cross the beach a wide range of mantas can be seen swimming around even near the shore lines.
All 23 rooms at Casa Mia are built for maximum comfort and features over 4 different categories of accommodations for guests to pick from. Garden
View Rooms, Beach View Rooms, The Private Villas and the Executive Suite. All the rooms at Casa Mia are air-conditioned, features beautiful wooden deco and come with its own private terrace both at the front and back entrance. The Rooms are spacious and come equipped with a mini bar, table, comfortable lounges on the terrace and rain showers in the bathroom.
The Executive Suite features a beautiful sitting room area with a huge flat screen TV, single bedroom and an outdoor shower and bathtub. The Private Villas are three stories high with the ground floor equipped with two rooms - a comfortable chill out lounge area with a Tv and sofas while a spiral staircase leading to the second floor takes you to a huge terrace. It doesn’t end there, going up another spiral staircase from the terrace takes you to a stunning roof top jacuzzi.
Casa Mia is not just a guest house but an experience. An experience where Culture, Beauty and Comfort blend together to bring you the best of what Maldives has to offer without maxing out your credit cards.
Asia Prestige Management Takes Over Ranveli Island Resort
Hong Kong based Asia Prestige Management (APM) has successfully secured Ranveli Island Resort. The island is strategically located in South Ari Atoll of Maldives and only 25 minutes seaplane ride from Male City. The resort will be re-branded as Zazz Island Resort.
This acquisition is in line with APM’s strategy to expand strategically into key Asian markets and to further strengthen the presence of its Zazz brand.
South Ari Atoll offers one of Maldives’ most sought-after resort destinations. With its location near Mamigili, it is close to the marine wildlife protected area where whale sharks can be spotted all year round. A seaplane ride transports guests to the island, surrounded by some of the world’s finest diving sites.
APM will partner with Unicorn Hotels & Resorts to manage the 100 villas resort which is scheduled to be opened in the second quarter of 2019.
Unicorn Hotels & Resorts is a smart, new-thinking hospitality management
company based in Bangkok, specialising in full hotel management, as well as offering a full range of management, operational, technical and development consulting services for hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs and beyond.
Headquartered in Hong Kong, Asia Prestige Management is a rapidly expanding property investment and hospitality management company which owns and operates hotels as well as manages independently owned properties.
The APM’s primary focus is the development and investment of high caliber properties and an unparalleled commitment to each properties continued success. Relentless in their pursue for excellence, APM aims to exceed expectations by delivering extraordinary hospitality management services and financial results.
Other projects under the management of APM includes Zazz Urban Thailand, Zazz Urban Vietnam and Treasure Oasis Hotel Cambodia.
6 Tips for Hotel Customer Service in 2018
Providing Good Customer Service to your Hotel Guests is critical to the Hotel’s survival. Providing Good Customer Service is simply achieved through offering Good Quality Products and Services? But this does not mean providing the “Best available”, but rather providing “what is expected –because it is promised” - Always.
If you want to establish a reputation for Good Customer Service, you need to be able to resolve customer complaints if mistakes do occur. Here’s how to resolve Customer Complaints.
Establish a Customer Service Policy. When Hotel Employees are faced with a situation, your Employee should know how to handle the situation, such as arranging a refund, offering an apology and how to document the transaction. If your Employees know how to deal with a situation, the need to call their Manager is minimized and the conflict is resolved in a faster manner.
Train ALL Hotel Employees. Once you have established your Hotels Customer Service Policy - you must train ALL personnel on how to handle complaints from Hotel Guests.
Always be polite and stay calm. No matter how irate the Hotel Guest is you need to stay calm. Do not engage the customer by reacting to the situation. You will only add to their hostility. You need to understand that the Hotel Guest is frustrated because the product or service that they are getting from your Hotel is not what they expected and it’s your job to make things better.
Always listen to the Hotel Guest. Take the time to listen to the Hotel Guest so you know exactly what the problem is. Do not interrupt the Hotel Guest, but you may divert the conversation if they are repeating something they have already said before.
Repeat back what the Hotel Complainant has said. To make sure you understand the Hotel Guest’s specific complaints - use short and clear sentences to describe their situation back to them, to make sure that you have understood it clearly. This will validate the customer and let them know you really understood them.
Offer a solution. Be ready to provide a solution to the Hotel Guest’s complaint. This shows that you and the Hotel are willing to take steps to keep Hotel Guests happy. This goes a long way in pleasing your Complainant and re-establishing a good reputation with them.
In some cases, you may need to divert from the Hotel policy because some situations may be more damaging to the Hotel than others.
Remember that with social networking sites and blogs, customers aren’t afraid to talk about their experiences when they are dissatisfied. And of course, remember that when a Guest is happy with your Hotel, they will tell far fewer people than when they are displeased, when they will let at least ten other people know. So it is important you address any complaints immediately and do so in a calm and professional manner.
MATATO
Promotes Maldives
As A Destination At VITM
Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) is represented Maldives as a destination at the Vietnam International Travel Mart (VITM).
Along with the officials from MATATO, local PR firm Maldives Getaways and resorts such as Villa Hotels, Amaya Kuda Rah and Kihaa Maldives are also taking part in the fair which opened on 29th Matchand will last until 1st April at the Friendship Cultural Palace, 91 Tran Hung Dao Street in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem district.
With the theme “Online Tourism, Vietnam’s Tourism Advances in Industry 4.0”, VITM 2018 aimed to encourage and support travel enterprises to access opportunities in the digital era by applying modern technology in selling their products, thus promoting their capacity to attract and serve customers online.
An exclusive exhibition area has been set up by online travel businesses as well as agencies providing technological solutions for tourism.There are some 500 pavilions with nearly 700 enterprises from 45 cities and provinces around Vietnam and 21 countries and territories, introducing and offering products, including more than 40,000 discounted air tickets and 15,000 discounted package tours.
VITM is the leading travel fair in Vietnam and one of the key travel shows in the region. Held once a year in
Hanoi, its prime aim is to boost all three travel pillars: outbound, inbound and domestic. VITM is an excellent platform for national tourism organisations and tourism-related businesses to promote, network, and increase awareness about destinations and brand names. Participating in VITM creates an unparalleled chance to engage and expand business, especially for the outbound travel segment.\
Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) is a non-profit organisation that has been working in the last ten years to foster and promote SMEs of local travel agents.
The association has engaged themselves in various activities over the years from advocacy, training and workshops, travel trade fairs in many parts of the world, media FAM trips, government lobbying, recognition programs such as Awards, travel conferences and forums, publications, destination marketing, whistle-blower programs, representation and much more.
In recent years MATATO has increased the number of travel trade events. Last year, MATATO along with tourism industry representatives showcased the Maldives at 15 international travel shows and exhibitions. MATATO has also revealed that it plans to participate in 19 international travel trade fairs and exhibitions in 2018.
