LUX* South Ari Atoll not only secured the coveted title of Most Outstanding Chef by the resort’s Senior Sous Chef Barun Kumar Singh but also dominated several key categories. With this, the team members brought home a harvest of 31 awards. This includes 6 Gold Medals, 8 Silver Medals, 8 Bronze Medals, and 8 Merit Certificates.
This remarkable display underscores LUX* South Ari Atoll’s unwavering dedication to culinary excellence. The passion and skill exhibited by the chefs shone brightly throughout the competition.
We are incredibly proud of our culinary team’s outstanding performance at the Hotel Asia Culinary Challenge. Their dedication, talent, and creativity wee on full display throughout the competition, and their impressive haul of awards is a true testament to their exceptional skills, says John Rogers – General Manager at LUX* South Ari Atoll.
LUX* South Ari Atoll offers a distinctive array of eight restaurants and five bars. With this, the resort can cater to every palate. From fresh seafood specialities at Beach Rouge to the innovative flavours of Japanese cuisine at Umami, to a healthy Keen on Green vegetarian and vegan menu, guests will embark on a gastronomic culinary journey on the island paradise.
The Maldives has long been known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious overwater villas. However, it is the country’s growing emphasis on wellness that has recently captured the attention of Forbes Travel Guide. As a result, the Maldives earned a spot in their coveted Top 12 Destinations for 2025. While the Maldives has always been a dream destination for relaxation, it now offers much more—transformative wellness journeys that attract travelers from around the globe. So, what exactly makes the Maldives stand out in 2025? Let’s explore what Forbes found so compelling.
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Why Forbes Chose the Maldives
As global travel trends evolve, wellness tourism is rising in popularity. Forbes notes that more and more travelers are seeking remote destinations that offer the perfect balance of relaxation and rejuvenation. The Maldives, with its peaceful surroundings, is a prime example of this shift. Moreover, with a growing number of luxury wellness resorts, the Maldives is at the forefront of this travel trend.
Forbes highlights how the Maldives combines its natural beauty with holistic wellness programs. They specifically mention resorts like Joali Being and Velaa Private Island as key players in this movement. These resorts offer much more than just a place to stay—they create transformative experiences that allow guests to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with their well-being. Whether it’s through movement, nutrition, or mindfulness, these wellness programs go beyond the typical spa treatment. In doing so, they encourage true personal growth and rejuvenation.
Joali Being: The First Wellbeing Island of Its Kind
Joali Being, the Maldives’ first wellbeing island, offers a transformative journey centered around the Four Pillars of Wellbeing: Movement, Nutrition, Sleep, and Emotional Balance. Rooted in nature’s abundance and ancient wisdom, the resort tailors wellness experiences to individual goals. Whether it’s achieving hormonal balance or mental clarity, Joali Being has something for everyone. Additionally, facilities like the Hydrotherapy Hall and Discovery Sound Path complement the holistic experience. As a result, guests leave feeling revitalized. Combining modern science with ancient healing practices, Joali Being stands as a leader in the realm of transformative travel.
Velaa Private Island: A Cutting-Edge Wellness Retreat
Velaa Private Island takes wellness to new heights with its recently unveiled Velaa Wellbeing Village. The village offers services ranging from Ayurvedic and osteopathic treatments to tailored fitness and nutrition programs. At the heart of the Velaa Wellbeing Village is the Eveylaa center, which blends traditional healing with modern wellness practices. This provides a sanctuary for guests seeking holistic health. The Velaa Academy by Olazabal also offers the perfect space for yoga and Pilates enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the Faiy restaurant, nestled in a lush garden, serves mindful, vibrant meals. These dishes nourish both the body and the spirit. Velaa Private Island is a destination where physical wellness meets spiritual nourishment, solidifying its place as a premier holistic retreat.
The Maldives as the Ultimate Wellness Escape
Forbes Travel Guide’s decision to name the Maldives in its Top 12 Destinations for 2025 highlights the growing appeal of remote, wellness-focused locations. As wellness continues to become a top priority for travelers, the Maldives stands out for its unwavering commitment to promoting long-term well-being. From the peaceful overwater villas to the innovative wellness facilities, the Maldives offers a rare combination of luxury and rejuvenation. Therefore, it makes the ideal destination for those seeking a transformative escape.
Forbes Travel Guide, JOALI Being, velaa private island
