India’s MFAR Hotels & Resorts Pvt Ltd Opens a Resort in the Maldives

Kochi-based firm, MFAR Hotels & Resorts Pvt Ltd opened a new resort, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives earlier this month. According to the resort, the High Commissioner of India to the Maldives, Sunjay Sudhir attended the opening of Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives.

The newly-opened Kuda Villingili Resort by MFAR Hotels & Resorts is located in North Malé Atoll. The luxury retreat is reachable by a 30-minute speedboat journey from Velana International Airport. Kuda Villingili embraces cultural expressions and encapsulates timeless elegance. Likewise, the resort’s design is enhanced by traditional Maldivian arts and fabrics.

The resort features a variety of accommodation options to meet the needs of every traveller from couples, solo travellers, families, to groups. Kuda Villingili boasts 59 beach villas and 36 water villas inspired by the sprawling nature of the Maldives.

In addition to that, the diversity of cultural expressions are celebrated throughout the resort’s outstanding gourmet offering. The luxury island escape offers the choice of three diverse dining venues, guaranteed to appeal to everyone’s taste buds.

Boasting an idyllic beachfront view, the resort’s signature dining establishment – The Restaurant – serves the freshest, handcrafted food for breakfast and dinner, in an exclusive, classy ambience.

Also read: NASA is Returning to Venus, When can Travellers from India Return to the Maldives?

Meanwhile, located by the impressive swimming pool (one of the most stylish swimming pools in the Maldives), The Hawkers is an upscale dining venue with a bar and three distinct restaurants, Spice, East and Med, which serve mouth-watering Indian-Arabic, Thai-Japanese and Italian-Mediterranean fusion street food by each restaurant’s open kitchens.

Finally, a South American take on the classic beach menu is available at The Beach Club, together with an extended list of refreshing frozen cocktails and rosé wines. Overlooking the Maldivian sunset, the Beach Club hosts daily live DJ sets that provide the ultimate soundscape for an extraordinary vacation.

The resort also features a host of activities appealing to anyone who visits the Maldives. Seller surfing, stargazing, wildlife encounters, sandbank dining, or big game fishing, you name it! Kuda Villingili guarantees you’ll never run out of things to do at the luxury island haven.

Feature image by Kuda Villingili Resort 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