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Universal Resorts Earns Top Honors at World Travel Awards 2024

Universal Resorts Earns Top Honors at World Travel Awards 2024

Universal Resorts proudly announces that three of its eight properties have earned top accolades at the prestigious World Travel Awards 2024. These wins solidify their status as leaders in global travel and innovation.

This year’s 31st edition of the awards, known as the travel industry’s highest honor, took place on Thursday, November 24, at a glamorous ceremony in Funchal, Madeira. The resorts Huvafen Fushi, Baros, and Kurumba received recognition for their outstanding excellence in hospitality. They earned the following titles:

  • Maldives Leading Boutique Resort 2024 – Huvafen Fushi Maldives
  • Maldives Leading Water Villa Resort 2024 – Baros Maldives
  • Indian Ocean’s Leading Family Resort 2024 – Kurumba Maldives

Baros also received several nominations:

  • Maldives’ Leading Water Villa Resort 2024
  • Maldives’ Leading Boutique Resort 2024
  • Maldives’ Leading Resort 2024
  • Indian Ocean’s Leading Water Villa Resort 2024
  • Indian Ocean’s Most Romantic Resort 2024

Other nominations include:

  • Huvafen Fushi nominated for Maldives’ Leading Boutique Resort 2024
  • Kurumba Maldives nominated for Maldives Leading Beach Resort 2024 & Maldives Leading Family Resort 2024
  • Velassaru Maldives nominated for Maldives Leading Resort 2024

Visha Mahir, Chief Operating Officer of Universal Resorts Management, shared:

“Achieving these top honours at the World Travel Awards is an absolute delight. It’s a powerful endorsement of our passion for crafting extraordinary experiences in a destination that continues to redefine luxury travel. The Maldives, with its breathtaking natural beauty and innovative spirit, sets the stage for unforgettable journeys, and we remain dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.”

Maldives Recognized as the World’s Leading Destination

The success of Universal Resorts’ properties reflects the Maldives’ continued position as the World’s Leading Destination. This prestigious title was awarded to the Maldives for the fifth consecutive year, cementing its status as a dream destination for travelers seeking natural beauty, unique experiences, and world-class service. Additionally, the Maldives was named the World’s Leading Green Destination 2024. This honor showcases the nation’s commitment to sustainable tourism and eco-friendly practices.

A Legacy of Pioneering Luxury

Universal Resorts began its journey in 1972 with the opening of Kurumba, the Maldives’ first-ever resort. Since then, the company’s collection of eight resorts has continued to set the standard for luxury tourism.

In 2023, Baros celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking a legacy of genuine Maldivian hospitality and an unwavering dedication to exceeding guest expectations. Moreover, the recent World Travel Awards recognition follows the triumph of Universal Resorts properties at the Condé Nast Readers’ Choice Awards 2024. Huvafen Fushi, Milaidhoo, and Baros ranked among the best resorts in the Indian Ocean.

For over five decades, Universal Resorts has led luxury tourism in the Maldives. The resorts offer unforgettable stays that embody the warmth and elegance of Maldivian hospitality. Each award-winning resort provides a unique experience:

  • Huvafen Fushi: This resort redefines luxury. It offers private plunge pools, the world’s first underwater spa, and dedicated butler service. With fewer than 50 rooms, Huvafen Fushi provides an intimate, boutique experience.
  • Baros: Famous for exceptional diving and underwater experiences, Baros offers tranquil escapes. Overwater villas with private pools and panoramic ocean views ensure a peaceful stay.
  • Kurumba: Located near Malé, Kurumba combines laid-back luxury with vibrant energy. It features pristine beaches, water sports, cultural experiences, and a family-friendly atmosphere.

New Developments and Enhancements Across Universal Resorts

Universal Resorts continues to innovate and exceed guest expectations with exciting new offerings at several properties:

Huvafen Fushi: Recently renovated, Huvafen Fushi has partnered with luxury beauty brands, including Natura Bissé and Aromatherapy Associates. These collaborations enhance the resort’s secluded island sanctuary, which reopened in October 2023 after a comprehensive renovation.

Kurumba Maldives: The resort has introduced new family-friendly experiences. The certified Kids Club now features activities like an AR Sandbox and Coconut Kitchen for young explorers. The spa has also updated its menu, offering global beauty icons such as Aromatherapy Associates and Obsidian Skincare for men. Dining at Kurumba has taken a bold step with Executive Chef Pedro Pecego. His international flair shines in unique creations, including South American grill nights at Thila, immersive ‘Omakase’ experiences at Hamakase, Middle Eastern flavors at Al Qasr, and North and South Indian-inspired dishes at Mahal.

For more information about the World Travel Awards 2024 winners, please click here.

Feature image: Baros Maldives

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JOALI Maldives Unveils Easter Celebrations Where Wonders Soar

JOALI Maldives family holiday

JOALI Maldives, the Maldives’ premier art-immersive destination, will launch its Easter celebrations for 2025 under the theme “Where Wonders Soar.” This captivating concept draws inspiration from the Painted Lady Butterfly, renowned for its incredible migrations to the world’s far-flung corners. Guests are invited to embrace their own transformative journey of freedom and exploration during this Easter season, which will take place from April 11th to 21st, 2025. With an array of festive activities, the island promises an immersive experience that will ignite curiosity, foster creativity, and inspire connections among guests of all ages.

Shifaz Hassan, the General Manager of JOALI Maldives, expresses excitement about the upcoming event, saying:

“We look forward to welcoming new and returning guests to our Island of Joy, to find beauty in hidden places with their loved ones this Easter season. For an experience unlike any other in the destination, our art-immersive island and the specialty programming allows guests of all ages the opportunity to explore the island’s endless creative possibilities in their own way.”

Gourmet Easter Experiences: Chef Gonzo Jimenez and Chef Alex Webb

A key highlight of JOALI Maldives’ Easter celebrations is the arrival of world-renowned pastry chef and chocolatier Chef Gonzo Jimenez. Known for his work on Netflix’s “Bakesquad” and his commitment to sustainability, Chef Jimenez will lead a week-long residency from April 16th to 23rd. Guests will have the unique opportunity to learn the art of chocolate-making and savor indulgent desserts inspired by the Painted Lady Butterfly theme. Highlights of his residency will include chocolate masterclasses for both children and adults, as well as the chance to enjoy a limited-time dessert curated by Chef Jimenez himself, ensuring an Easter experience filled with sweetness and artistry.

Additionally, the resort will welcome back acclaimed chef Alex Webb, a trailblazer in the culinary world and winner of BBC’s MasterChef: The Professionals. From April 19th to 21st, Chef Webb will present a specially designed five-course menu, bringing his signature bold flavors and inventive cooking techniques to the island. His “Flavours of Joy Gourmet Dinner” promises to be a highlight of the Easter festivities, offering an unforgettable dining experience.

Curated Activities and Experiences for All Ages

Art and Creativity: As an art-immersive island, JOALI offers guests a chance to participate in eco-friendly art classes that focus on recycling and sustainability. Guests can try their hands at ceramic crafting, transforming recycled glass bottles into hand-painted vases, or creating spring-inspired artwork in the “Spring Reflections” class. Additionally, other activities will include fluid painting, Easter egg and chocolate bunny decorating, and exploring the island’s butterfly sanctuaries.

Culinary Delights: Beyond Chef Webb’s exquisite five-course meal, guests can enjoy a special Easter breakfast and an extravagant buffet-style Easter Feast, featuring both signature JOALI dishes and beloved holiday classics. Throughout the week, guests can also look forward to themed dinners such as Good Friday breakfast, Sundowner Reception, Sushi by the Sea, and the indulgent “Love of Levant” six-course wine-paired dinner. Moreover, other culinary experiences include a Street Food Fiesta, an Old World Wine Dinner, and a five-course feast at the resort’s over-water Japanese-Peruvian restaurant, Tastes of Soake.

Adventure and Exploration: Guests can make the most of JOALI’s stunning natural surroundings by embarking on various land and sea adventures. From the serene “Seas of Gold” sunset cruise to exhilarating jet-skiing and efoil electric board experiences, there’s no shortage of excitement. Families can also join in on the fun with a variety of challenges, including the Easter Football Cup game.

Wellness Retreats: JOALI BEING, the resort’s wellness destination, will offer an array of wellness experiences, designed to align with the themes of rebirth, wonder, and transformation. Guests can engage in mindfulness activities such as gratitude meditation, cacao ceremonies, and various yoga classes, including aerial yoga and Yin Yoga.

Children’s Easter Adventures at the Muramas Kids Club

Families are sure to find joy in the many activities planned for younger guests at the Muramas Kids Club. This Easter, children will be entertained by a host of imaginative adventures, including:

  • Rainbow Doodles: A creative activity where children can decorate Easter-themed items like eggs and bunnies, using colorful markers to express their artistic flair.
  • Easter Bunny Quest: A fun-filled family Easter egg hunt, where the whole family can join in the excitement and track down hidden treasures with the Easter Bunny.
  • Floating Fun: A bubble party on the beach, where children can chase and pop shimmering bubbles of all sizes, bringing endless joy.
  • Galactic Explorers: Stargazing with the resort’s in-house astronomer, giving kids the chance to explore the night sky and observe planets, constellations, and more.
  • Movie Under the Stars: A magical evening spent watching a movie on the beach, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the waves and the sparkle of the night sky.

The JOALI Maldives Experience: A Celebration of Joy and Sustainability

JOALI Maldives continues to lead the way in luxury travel with its unique blend of elegance, creativity, and commitment to sustainability. The resort’s philosophy of joie de vivre—the joy of living—shines through in every aspect of the guest experience, from its beautifully crafted over-water and beach villas to its bespoke services, including the personal touch of a “Jadugar” for each guest. With a strong dedication to environmental responsibility, JOALI Maldives offers an exceptional experience, combining innovative dining, immersive art programs, and its holistic wellness destination, JOALI BEING Cure, to redefine what luxury truly means.

mAs the resort welcomes guests this Easter and beyond, JOALI Maldives promises an extraordinary retreat that goes beyond relaxation. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in a world of creativity, adventure, and indulgence, all while making lasting memories and experiencing transformative moments. Whether exploring the island’s artistic offerings, indulging in unique culinary delights, or enjoying family-friendly activities, JOALI Maldives ensures every visit is filled with joy and discovery, offering an unparalleled escape where luxury and sustainability coexist harmoniously.

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