Under the shimmering crescent moon that marked the arrival of Eid al-Fitr on Sunday, March 30, RAAYA by Atmosphere transformed a serene Maldivian evening into an extraordinary celebration. The luxury resort welcomed a select group of journalists from the United Kingdom with a specially curated Eid dinner at Seb’s Farm — blending sustainability, cultural immersion, and island charm in one memorable event.
Earlier this year, RAAYA introduced Seb’s Farm — a harvest-to-table culinary concept rooted in sustainability and freshness. The farm’s signature menu fuses traditional Maldivian flavors with international influences, using ingredients grown organically onsite or sourced from local fishermen.
A Taste of Sustainability at Seb’s Farm
To set the tone for the evening, General Manager Maurice Van Den Bosch, Vice President of Communications Euan Blake, and Assistant Director of Communications Seema Misra warmly hosted the intimate celebration. Together, they crafted a media experience that not only showcased the resort’s core values but also brought guests closer to the heart of RAAYA’s island lifestyle.
To begin the day’s festivities, the resort invited the visiting journalists on a guided morning tour of Seb’s Farm. As they strolled along sun-dappled paths, they handpicked herbs and vegetables — ingredients that would, later that evening, feature in their special meal. This hands-on experience allowed them to connect with the land and cuisine in a meaningful way.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the group reconvened under a cozy gazebo at the center of the farm. A rustic wooden table, adorned with fresh blooms and illuminated by soft candlelight, welcomed them. Wind chimes added a melodic layer to the gentle island breeze, while the rich aromas of locally inspired dishes floated through the air. To further immerse themselves in the Maldivian spirit, each guest wore a traditional black-and-white striped sarong — a thoughtful touch that deepened their connection to the culture.
A Deeper Cultural Connection
In addition to the culinary adventure, the resort thoughtfully designed the Eid celebration to reflect authentic traditions. The fusion of atmosphere, attire, and locally sourced ingredients created a deeper narrative — one where the guests didn’t just observe, but actively participated in the joy of the holiday.
The visiting media group included Alice Emily Barnes-Brown of Travel Weekly, Natasha Tomalin-Hall from Mail Online, Lynne Mole of loveEXPLORING.com, Natasha Heard of Luxury Lifestyle Magazine, and Tilly Everard of Rooster PR. Not only did they stay at RAAYA by Atmosphere, but they also ventured to OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO. Consequently, they experienced a broader view of the Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts brand and its distinctive approach to hospitality across the Maldives.
Memorable Moments and Lasting Impressions
Reflecting on the journey, Tilly Everard shared her personal highlights:
“Our time at RAAYA by Atmosphere was truly unforgettable. From an idyllic sunset fishing trip and indulgent spa treatments at ELE|NA Ayur spa, to unleashing our creativity with Dhoni boat painting and unwinding with sunrise yoga, every experience was exceptional. The highlight was the Eid dinner itself—savouring the freshest Maldivian flavours under a starlit sky, surrounded by the warmest hospitality. It was a magical way to celebrate the occasion, and the heartfelt touches, such as the handwritten welcome notes and invites in our villas, made us feel so at home”
Ultimately, RAAYA by Atmosphere lies just 45 minutes from Velana International Airport via scenic seaplane. The five-star retreat features 167 beachfront and overwater villas, alongside six diverse dining options that blend regional authenticity with international sophistication — offering guests an idyllic sanctuary where luxury and cultural connection coexist.
