JW Marriott Resort to be Developed in South Malé Atoll

HIMA Holdings, a Maldivian-based real estate holding company, has partnered with Sri Lanka-based Sanken Group and Singapore-based Singapore Hospitality Holdings Pte Ltd (SHH), a subsidiary of Orca Holding, to develop an 80 villa luxury resort under the JW Marriott Brand.

The resort will be constructed in the Emboodhoo Lagoon, a prime location with only a 10-minute speed boat ride from Velana International Airport. This will be an attractive offering for travellers seeking a luxury product with proximity to the capital, Malé.

For nearly three decades, JW Marriott has evolved to own an enviable niche in the growing luxury tier within Marriott International, the strongest hospitality brand in the world.

The resilience shown by Maldives Tourism during these challenging times has given a lot of confidence for foreign investors like Mr. Laith Pharaon and Sanken to continue investing in the Maldives.
Mr. Mevan Gunatilleke, Deputy CEO of Sanken Group

Further, Mr. Gunatilleke appreciated Sri Lankan Banks, NTB (Nations Trust Bank) and DFCC, for strongly backing Sanken and promoting strategic investments in the Maldives.

Mr. Ahmed Hassan Maniku, Chairman of HIMA Holdings, who owns the neighbouring resort Taj Exotica, highlighted the location of the proposed resort as a key differentiator and the importance of collaboration with the correct partners to execute successful ventures.

Mr. Pharaon stated, “The Maldives continues to be a bright spot in the high-end hospitality space and we are honoured to be part of this tripartite joint venture with such experienced partners.”

Orca Holding’s current hospitality investments include the breath-taking Amari Havodda in the Maldives, as well as the soon to open Alila Maldives resort, to trailblazing projects with Soho House in Spain, and the Zetter hotel portfolio in the UK. Past hospitality investments include Six Senses in Asia, and Hyatt and Four Seasons branded projects in Latin America.

Sanken, the leading construction company in the region, with an active presence in Maldives since 1980s, has constructed several iconic developments in the Maldives, with Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands being the latest addition to the portfolio. The JW Marriott will be Sanken’s fourth investment in the Maldives since Amari Havodda in 2015.

Feature image by Momentum 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