Cocoon Maldives to host Dance Festival with One Maldivian and Like Lisbon-Lisbon’s International Kizomba Energy

Joao & Giedre

Joao & Giedre are specialized in Kizomba and have been teaching together since 2012. They lived in Stockholm from 2012 till mid-2015 creating and developing the Kizomba scene. In 2015 they moved to Frankfurt (Germany) and own a Kizomba school called “Kizomba Fabrik”, where they give weekly classes and organize parties.

They are a part of different Kizomba festivals and weekenders all around the world teaching in over 40 countries. Their classes are known as very detailed and highly technical, they focus on Kizomba, Samba and Tarraxinha, pay a lot of attention to the Angolan culture. They created a modern class of Kizomba fusion with tango in 2011, which has become one of their most popular classes together with musicality

Mark-Anthony & Olesia

Mark-Anthony & Olesia were among the first ones to teach kizomba in Ukraine. Their classes are fun, full of cultural information, great knowledge about music and history and they have the ability to teach students with different dance experiences and make it easy and fun at the same time. They teach all styles of Latin dances along with Kizomba, Semba & Taaraxinha.

Robert & Jean

Robert & Jean started learning Cuban and Colombian Salsa in 1992 with the first generation of instructors in the UK: Xihomara Granados, Nelson Batista, and Ramiro Zapata and Zina. They were later introduced to New York-style ‘cross-body’ Salsa by Pedro Gomez, a Puerto Rican teacher based in Italy.

Since then they have studied with many famous US proponents of that style including Eddie Torres, Nelson Flores of Descarga Latina Dance Company, Tomas Guerrero of Santo Rico Dance Company and Frankie Martinez.

They started teaching and founded Mambo City in 1999. Both Robert and Jean teach at Mambo City venues and Robert also DJs (as Cruz and Bobby Blanco). He has a diverse musical background and is a former session musician who has played Reggae and R&B on a semi-professional basis.

They have been teaching at Depo dance Café for the past 6 years and Ravado Studio for around 10 months. They have travelled the world entertaining audiences with their creative shows and fun workshops. When the music speaks you should listen. Their motto is “Dance, Live, Laugh, Connect.” and we might as well just do what they say.

All of the resort’s in-house guests will have the opportunity to participate in this festival for a special rate of USD150 per day pass per person and USD400 weekly pass per person. Likewise, Cocoon Maldives offers special discounts for couples looking to join this exclusive festival.

Book your holidays now to experience this one-of-a-kind event in Cocoon Maldives; The First Design Hotel in the Maldives located in stunning Lhaviyani Atoll.

Feature image by Cocoon Maldives

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