If you visit the Maldives and want to experience something truly authentic, then JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort now offers Indian Ocean Night every Wednesday. Basically, this unique weekly event brings together the vibrant flavors, music, and crafts from the Maldives and its nearby coastal neighbors, all set in a stunning location with breathtaking ocean views. This Maldivian cultural night is designed to immerse guests in the true spirit of the islands.

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A Culinary Journey Through the Indian Ocean

The resort hosts Indian Ocean Night at Veyo, its stylish international restaurant. Here, the event offers a feast for all the senses. The menu, titled “Whispers of the Indian Ocean,” takes diners on a flavorful journey through coastal culinary traditions. Guests can enjoy:

• Bis Keemiya, a Maldivian take on the classic samosa, perfect for a savory bite
• Havaadhulee Bis, delicate steamed tuna dumplings with a soft texture
• Maldivian Chicken Curry, richly spiced and deeply satisfying
• Alleppey Prawn Curry, a coastal favorite bursting with fragrant spices

What’s more, the chefs prepare all dishes using carefully sourced ingredients that honor the island’s rich culinary heritage.

As guests enjoy their meal, live grill stations fill the air with the smoky aroma of open-fire cooking, adding a lively, communal vibe to the night. Meanwhile, traditional Maldivian Bodu Beru drumming and live singing performances create a joyful and soulful tone, making the evening feel like a genuine island celebration under the stars. This is truly a Maldivian cultural night to remember

Immerse Yourself in Maldivian Culture

Indian Ocean Night offers more than food and music; it invites guests to explore Maldivian culture up close. For instance, one special highlight allows guests to discover Liyelaa Jehun, the traditional lacquer craft unique to the Maldives. Working alongside a local artisan from Thulhaadhoo Island, one of the few places where this art still thrives, guests can watch the detailed brushwork and carving that bring these beautiful pieces to life. The resort also offers workshops where visitors can try their hand at this meticulous craft and learn about the stories behind each design.

Hands-On Cooking Classes to Bring the Flavors Home

For guests who want to bring a taste of the Maldives home, the resort hosts a hands-on cooking class led by a Maldivian chef at Pure, the beachfront open kitchen venue. There, guests learn to prepare classic dishes like Mas Huni, a simple yet flavorful breakfast of tuna and coconut, and Fiyala Curry, which features a fragrant blend of spices that perfectly capture the coastal spirit. The class combines cooking with storytelling, giving participants a deeper connection to the food and culture while enjoying ocean breezes and sweeping views.

JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort offers more than a getaway. In fact, it creates opportunities to connect with Maldivian life, heritage, and hospitality. Whether guests experience the beat of traditional drums, the art of lacquer making, or the first bite of a lovingly prepared dish, Indian Ocean Night invites them to discover the soul of the islands in a warm and welcoming way.