At InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort, paradise isn’t just something guests see. The team creates it with care and intention, shaping every moment of each guest’s journey. Nestled in the tranquil Raa Atoll, this all-Club InterContinental resort features pristine waters, elegant villas, and curated experiences. Yet, the true depth of luxury comes from the people behind the scenes. One of them is Suman Saurabh Sahoo, the resort’s Recreation Manager, who leads a transformation in how leisure takes shape on the island.
Suman brought more than 15 years of international experience in guest services and recreational programming when he joined the team in July 2024. He didn’t come just to lead. He came to build. Driven by a desire to create an entirely new leisure department, he stepped into a role that allowed him to combine creativity, strategy, and passion in one of the world’s most exclusive destinations.
Who Is Suman Saurabh Sahoo?
Originally from India, Suman applied a globally informed and experienced approach to resort recreation. His hospitality journey has taken him across borders and through diverse cultures. But the Maldives gave him something different: a natural setting that blends leadership and inspiration.
“My first impression was overwhelming. The entire management team welcomed me personally – it was very warm and touching,” he said. That welcome laid the foundation for what he would go on to accomplish.
He felt drawn not only to Maamunagau’s postcard-worthy beauty but also to the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to a resort known for highly personalized luxury. “The staff accommodation is some of the best in the country – that shows how much care and foresight has been put into the planning here.”
Redefining Leisure on a Luxury Island
When Suman joined, InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort already had a strong reputation for family-focused offerings, especially through its Planet Trekkers kids’ club. Suman recognized the potential to grow beyond that foundation and introduced a leisure program that now appeals to all generations of travelers.
“Our aim from the outset was to focus the resort even more on leisure, activities and entertainment,” he explained. Under his leadership, that vision now shapes guest experiences throughout the island.
Today, guests can explore a wide range of engaging activities:
- Movement and Wellness: From Muay Thai boxing and Salsa dance classes to Aqua Zumba, the resort now offers energetic ways to stay active and have fun against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean.
- STEM Activities: A signature highlight, these workshops in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are crafted especially for curious young minds, turning learning into adventure.
- Themed Experiences: A Pirate Cruise designed for kids adds excitement to their stay, while tailored programming for couples and solo travelers supports deeper personal connection and relaxation.
This refreshed direction supports the resort’s broader vision. Whether guests choose beach, lagoon, or overwater villas, they now enjoy curated moments that invite more than rest. They invite reconnection, joy, and discovery.
Island Life Through a New Lens
Suman sees working in the Maldives as both rewarding and inspiring. Beyond his daily responsibilities, he draws creative energy from the natural environment. “The vast ocean, the tropical climate and the peace and quiet that allows me to read or write – it’s a gift,” he says.
That sense of calm empowers him to lead with clarity and innovation. “In my seven years here, I have learned that there is a solution to every problem – you just have to be creative enough.”
This thoughtful and adaptive approach has helped him build a leisure offering that reflects the spirit of Maamunagau: authentic, enriching, and constantly evolving.
After all these years, does the Maldives still inspire him?
“Absolutely. Someone once said to me: ‘99% of the Maldives is underwater’ and I always carry that thought with me. It’s a privilege to work in a place that others only know from vacation.”
More Than an Island Escape
As luxury travel continues to evolve toward meaningful, immersive engagement, professionals like Suman Saurabh Sahoo help lead the way. At InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort, he does more than organize activities. He builds opportunities for guests to create lasting memories.
With his leadership, guests leave with more than beautiful photos. They take home laughter, discovery, and a stronger connection to themselves and the island. That defines true luxury, not just what guests see, but what they feel long after their journey ends.
