Long Service Award Recognizes Commitment at Angsana Velavaru

On November 28, 2024, Angsana Velavaru marked a significant milestone by hosting a Long Service Award ceremony to celebrate the dedication of its associates. The event honored team members who had served the resort for five, ten, and fifteen years. Underscoring their vital role in maintaining the resort’s high standards and embodying the spirit of the Banyan Group.

Eddy See, President and CEO, along with Phillip Lim, Head of Regional Operations and Group Specialist Services, joined General Manager Ahmed Zahir to present the awards. Under Zahir’s leadership, Angsana Velavaru has consistently fostered a culture of excellence and respect. His commitment ensures that the resort maintains a positive environment where both associates and guests can thrive. As a result, the Angsana brand’s legacy continues to grow and inspire excellence throughout the Maldives.

The ceremony marked a significant milestone in Angsana Velavaru’s journey. It highlighted the resort’s deep commitment to its associates, who are the foundation of the Angsana experience. As Zahir emphasized during the ceremony:

“Our associates are the driving force behind the success of Angsana Velavaru. We remain dedicated to providing them with the resources, environment, and recognition they deserve. Today’s ceremony is not just about years of service, but about upholding the core values of care, passion, and respect — values that define everything we do.”

A Gesture of Commitment with the Renovation of Midhili Restaurant

In addition to the awards ceremony, Angsana Velavaru unveiled the newly renovated Midhili Restaurant, designed exclusively for the resort’s associates. This renovation was a collaborative effort, with associates working closely with General Manager Ahmed Zahir and various department heads. Furthermore, the newly designed restaurant offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere with comfortable couches, fostering relaxation and community among the team.

Midhili Restaurant is the first to be completed under the Banyan Group’s global initiative. This program enhances associate spaces across all its hotels and resorts, aiming to create more comfortable environments for staff. By investing in these spaces, the Banyan Group demonstrates its commitment to the health, happiness, and sense of community among its workforce worldwide.

Ultimately, the Long Service Award ceremony and the Midhili Restaurant renovation highlight how Angsana Velavaru’s actions align with its core values of Respect, Innovation, Sustainability, and Passion for Service. These values have shaped the resort’s ongoing success and continue to guide everything it does, from creating a welcoming environment for guests to ensuring the happiness of its associates.

Traveling with toddlers or young kids often feels overwhelming, but when you prepare well, your family adventure becomes smooth, enjoyable, and unforgettable. Whether you’re flying short distances or tackling a long-haul journey, these practical travel tips will help you navigate airports, planes, and destinations with confidence. From smart packing to calming meltdowns, here’s your essential guide to flying with kids.

1. Tire Out Toddlers Before the Flight

Let your kids burn off energy at the airport before boarding. Visit a children’s play area or soft play zone near your gate if your airport has one. Encourage running, climbing, and moving around to help them settle once you board. If play areas aren’t available, take brisk walks through the terminal or let them climb stairs to stay active.

2. Choose the Best Seats for Comfort and Convenience

Book the right seats to improve everyone’s comfort. On long-haul flights, grab seats in the middle section of the emergency exit row for extra space and easy bathroom access. Choose window seats to entertain kids with views during takeoff and landing.

3. Take Advantage of Early Boarding

Use early boarding to get your family settled without the crowd. Most airlines offer pre-boarding for families with young children. Use this time to stash carry-ons, set up car seats, and get kids comfortable before the aisles fill up. Ask staff politely for help with strollers or expedited security if needed.

4. Pack Smart and Light Without Skipping Essentials

Streamline your packing without sacrificing toddler must-haves. Borrow or rent bulky items like strollers and car seats at your destination to reduce your load. Pack plenty of diapers, wipes, extra clothes, and essentials in your carry-on. Use a multi-compartment “snackle box” filled with your child’s favorite treats to keep them busy and satisfied during the flight.

5. Manage Ear Pressure with Easy Solutions

Prevent ear pain during takeoff and landing. Offer your baby a pacifier or bottle. Give older toddlers something to chew—like a dissolvable lollipop or gum. Teach them to yawn or blow gently while pinching their nose. Use saline sprays if they have a stuffy nose to avoid added discomfort.

6. Bring Comfort Items and Entertainment

Create a travel “goodie bag” to keep kids entertained and comforted. Include familiar items like a favorite blanket or stuffed animal, along with quiet toys, coloring books, child-friendly headphones, and a tablet loaded with shows or games. Bring an inflatable footrest or cushion to help them stretch out and rest comfortably.

7. Plan Flights and Stopovers Around Your Toddler’s Routine

Book night flights to align with your child’s sleep schedule and reduce jet lag. Plan stopovers carefully—choose longer layovers if they offer a chance to nap, eat, or play. When possible, adjust your toddler’s sleep routine a few days before travel to ease the transition.

8. Stay Flexible and Embrace the Chaos

Build flexibility into your travel plans. Avoid overloading your itinerary and allow time for snacks, bathroom breaks, or detours. Stay calm during tantrums and respond with patience. When you embrace the unpredictable moments, you create better experiences and lower everyone’s stress levels.

9. Use Family-Friendly Accommodations and Airlines

Book hotels or vacation rentals that cater to families. Look for places with high chairs, cribs, separate sleeping spaces, or kid-friendly amenities like pools and play areas. Fly with airlines known for family service—many offer toddler meals, in-flight entertainment packs, and helpful staff. Confirm stroller policies and bring travel accessories like seat extenders or portable beds to enhance comfort on board.

10. Travel with Extra Support

Bring friends, family, or a partner whenever possible. Shared childcare lightens your load and allows everyone a break. If you’re flying solo, ask airline or airport staff for help and plan to meet local support at your destination. A little assistance goes a long way.

Make Your Next Family Flight a Breeze

Flying with toddlers doesn’t have to feel like a mission. When you plan smart, pack efficiently, and stay adaptable, you make family travel easier and more fun. Whether it’s your child’s first flight or one of many, each journey creates lasting memories. Use these travel tips to keep your toddler happy and your stress levels low. You’ve got this—happy travels!

Check out these 8 family-friendly retreats in the Maldives for a summer holiday!

Feature Image: Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa

Angsana Velavaru Celebrates Excellence with Long Service Awards