Opening of Noku Phuket

Noku Hotels has announced the opening of Noku Phuket. It is the fourth Noku hotel after Noku Kyoto, Noku Osaka and Noku Maldives.

A 45 minutes’ journey from Phuket International Airport takes you to the newly built resort that is a hidden gem nestled on the hilltop away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Surrounded by natural flora, the resort features amazing views of the Chalong Bay.

Noku Phuket has been lauded with the Green Mark Gold award recently from the Building Authority of Singapore for its green design and sustainable efforts.

There are a total of 91 spacious Villas and Lofts furnished in soft earthy tones that marries Thai modern architecture with the hotel’s hillside lush greenery.

Each roomy Loft features a large bathroom and balcony that overlook the surrounding forested hills. The spacious Hill Villas provide wonderful sea views over Chalong Bay, and each stand-alone Tree Villa is a private sanctuary nestled amidst a quiet green landscape. Unwind in your private pool in both the Hill and Tree Villas or have a relaxing soak in the sunken bath.

For dining, EMBRACE Restaurant offers guests the opportunity to enjoy mouth-watering Thai dishes using locally sourced ingredients. After a long day of exploring the sights and sounds of Phuket at near-by attractions, guests can wind down and sip cocktails at The Terrace bar while enjoying the panoramic view of Chalong Bay.

Designed around a reflective swimming pool, the Wellness centre features individual spa pavilions with curated massages, an Infra-red room and steam saunas. Other wellness facilities include a fully equipped gym and a yoga room.

The hotel provides complimentary shuttle services to nearby beaches, the Phuket Old Town and shopping malls.

nokuhotels.com/

Restaurant opening: Woven by Adam Smith at Coworth Park

Coworth Park has unveiled details for Woven by Adam Smith, the new restaurant opening at Dorchester Collection’s luxury country house hotel on 8 September 2022. Chef Adam Smith’s menu will offer a tapestry of familiar flavours reimagined in unexpected ways, combining the classics with modern touches and layers of personal experience. Martin Hulbert Design has created the interiors for the restaurant, crafting a theatrical and contemporary space that blends seamlessly into the Georgian manor house setting, whilst complementing and elevating the dining experience.

An eye-catching set of sculptures inspired by the Coworth Park gardens sits at the entrance of Woven by Adam Smith. Past these, guests will be welcomed into an impressive new wine room and pantry, with two floor-to-ceiling wine cellars, holding a unique curation of bottles. The culinary journey will begin with a selection of snacks served from the pantry including devilled egg; caviar, smoked roe, pine; Coronation chicken; andcured seabass, XO sauce, kalamansi, seaweed. Welcome drinks will pair seamlessly with Adam’s menu and introduce guests to a list that celebrates British wines alongside library vintages from some of the best producers around the world, and cocktails that use storied, sustainable British spirits from Sapling.

A light-filled conservatory with expansive views over the Berkshire countryside sits to one side of the pantry, offering an extension of the main restaurant space or an exclusive private dining setting for up to 12 guests. The main dining room seats 44, with interiors that champion quality, craft and natural materials at every turn. As a centrepiece of the restaurant, a striking plaster relief set with root vegetables sits on the back wall, made by artisans Locker & Riley. The eye is also drawn to a contemporary light installation that mimics a woodland canopy, with delicate rays of light pouring over the restaurant below. The design of the space sets the scene for a wonderfully storied dining experience.

With surprising twists and turns, Adam’s food challenges expectations of the classics, with recipes, ingredients and dishes reinterpreted through the lens of personal experience. Adam rose through the ranks in the kitchens of The Ritz and The Devonshire Arms, before joining Coworth Park as Executive Chef in 2016. He has gained numerous awards along the way; amongst his proudest moments, winning the prestigious Roux Scholarship in 2012 and being awarded Master of Culinary Arts in 2017. Woven by Adam Smith represents the culmination of Adam’s great career to date, with the chef taking his years of experience combined with a creative and hugely passionate approach to cooking, and fully expressing his unique style at the new restaurant. The menu champions British produce in dishes such as brown crab, radish, apple, basil and yuzu; Hen of the Woods, Old Winchester, turnip and truffle; and Hereford beef, potato, onion, tendon and tongue. In celebration of Coworth Park’s bee hives, desserts include black fig, estate honey, walnut andbee pollen. Alternatively, guests can indulge in Adam’s signature chocolate, sea salt, coco nib andcrème fraîche, or choose from a wide selection of British cheeses served from the pantry.

The menu is priced at £80pp for lunch and £130pp for dinner, with the experience starting with a selection of snacks ‘From The Pantry’, followed by a choice ‘From The Larder’, ‘From The Stove’ and ‘From The Pastry’, before concluding with a selection of sweet treats. Wine pairing will be offered at £80pp.

dorchestercollection.com

LEVEN Manchester

LEVEN Manchester, an artfully designed new hotel is coming soon to the city’s vibrant Village neighbourhood.

Housed in a landmark early 20th century warehouse on the corner of Chorlton Street and Canal Street, LEVEN Manchester is a new hotel designed to be enjoyed on a guest’s own terms. LEVEN’s red brick walls and Crittall windows hold a rich history dating back to Manchester’s industrial past, including former uses first as a cotton warehouse, and more recently a brewery and comedy club. Following an extensive interior and exterior reimagining, the 33,000 sq ft property opened for soft launch in October 2021 as a design-led, 42-key hotel.

LEVEN is a brand new lifestyle hotel concept, and is a joint venture between Manchester-born entrepreneurs, brothers Joshua and Ben Senior, and industry innovators Wellbrook Hospitality.

well-brook.com

The Luxury Collection Debuts in Spain’s Enthralling Capital

Santo Mauro, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid offers global explorers immersive luxury in the heart of the city

The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, has announced the opening of Santo Mauro, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid, marking The Luxury Collection’s debut in the fabled city.

Located in the traditional aristocratic district of Chamberí, the hotel serves as a gateway to Madrid’s most exciting and desirable experiences and is just steps away from an array of cultural attractions, including the Sorolla Museum, charming flamenco shows at the Teatros del Canal and Andén 0 Metro Station, an exhibition space in a restored tube station. The historic building, with an intriguing past dating back to the 18th century, served as the former residence of the Duke of Santo Mauro.

An emblematic oasis in the heart of Madrid, the guestrooms, public areas, restaurants, and gardens have all undergone a thoughtful renovation. The property consists of three buildings surrounded by pristine gardens with centuries-old chestnut trees, all of which can be admired from the hotel’s enchanting garden terrace. Adorned with elegant custom furniture and art pieces, the 49-guestroom property features ten magnificent suites offering select outdoor balconies overlooking the hotel’s lush greenery.

Elevated Palatial Interiors
At the helm of the transformation, renowned interior designer Lorenzo Castillo, ensured the next chapter of the building’s journey honoured its Spanish heritage through stunning décor that reflects the hotel’s remarkable location in the heart of Madrid. Guests residing at the hotel will be enthralled by the opulent, clean design details as each renovated space provokes a sense of unparalleled authenticity.

The guestrooms have been refreshed with natural materials such as stone, marble and wood. Furnishings of plush leather, midnight blue velvet and silk have been introduced to bring a modern but elegant feel to the renovated palace. A colour palette of neutral earthy tones ensures a balance between traditional warmth and add a modern touch throughout the palatial guestrooms and suites.

Steeped in history, the hotel’s interiors evoke that of a Spanish noble house of the 18th century, which often saw styles of design collide. Eras effortlessly coexist, from the Georgian English Library complete with warm oak shelving, vibrant green and gold velvets to The Chinese Lounge displaying a graceful mix of oriental influences, with wall coverings and fabrics in different rich chinoiserie patterns. Sophisticated tones of black and gold lacquered furniture, and Qing Dynasty portraits adorn the walls throughout the property nodding to the decorative taste of the building’s illustrious past owners.

“Madrid is simultaneously a spirited, modern metropolis and a place of discovery imbued with the rich history of the Spanish capital,” said Philipp Weghmann, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, The Luxury Collection. “The destination is a natural fit for The Luxury Collection and our global explorers who seek immersive cultural experiences, and we cannot wait to welcome them at Santo Mauro, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid.”

A True Epicurean Destination
A city of grand gastronomic culture, the hotel introduces acclaimed Chef Rafael Peña, who has honed his skills in some of the world’s best kitchens and owns his own popular restaurant, Gresca, in Barcelona. Rafael will take over the culinary concept at La Biblioteca and El Jardin and present menus inspired by the meals of noble houses with sensational tasting menus and dedicated offerings for the Spanish ritual of late breakfast and the afternoon snack ‘La Merienda’. As the name hints, La Biblioteca is home to treasured books and antiques, providing an inviting atmosphere of effortless sophistication to serve couples, families, friends, and groups alike.

Those looking for a more relaxed dining experience can unwind in El Jardin, the garden of Santo Mauro, which offers a stunning, new outdoor terrace. For after-dinner drinks, El Bar is the perfect spot to seek out serving cocktails and snacks designed to perfectly pair with each drink.

Wellness and Relaxation
This tranquil escape from the city comes complete with an indoor pool, perfect for those who want to unwind after a day of exploring Madrid’s bustling centre. A new spa and fitness area will debut as a part of the second phase of the renovations, which is set to commence in summer 2022.

Exceptional Meeting and Event Spaces
With the hotel’s grand architecture providing the perfect backdrop, Santo Mauro is poised to welcome all occasions from business meetings to special events with seven spaces to choose from. A part-outdoor event space is also set to be revealed in summer 2022.

marriott.com/hotels

Two Michelin-Star experience at the Pavilions Phuket with Chef Christian Herrgesell

Former head chef of World’s 50 Best restaurant, Tim Raue, Chef Christian Herrgesell will host two gastronomic events at the luxury resort on 14 and 15 January 2022

This January, The Pavilions Phuket welcomes culinary director and former head chef from two Michelin-star restaurant Tim Raue, Chef Christian Herrgesell, over two days for a unique gastronomic experience for guests at the resort. From 14-15 January 2022, Chef Christian Herrgesell will take up residency at The Pavilions Phuket to present two specially crafted evenings of gastronomic delights, combining the diversity of Asian cuisine with the distinct culinary signature of one of Europe’s top chefs.

Christian Herrgesell has over 20 years’ experience in gastronomy, including ten years working with one of Germany’s most-decorated and flamboyant restauranteurs, Tim Raue, as head chef of his eminent Berlin restaurant Tim Raue. The two Michelin-starred restaurant has held a spot in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants since 2014, currently at #31, and has featured on Netflix’s Emmy-nominated series, Chef’s Table. During his time with Tim Raue, Christian not only served as head chef and culinary director in the flagship restaurant in Berlin, but also operated the opening of 13 restaurants around the World, including concepts in Dubai, St. Moritz and Sylt.

The Pavilions Phuket – image courtesy of Pavilions Hotels

On 14 and 15 January 2022, Christian will be hosting two exclusive culinary evenings at The Pavilions Phuket, where he will showcase an Asian-inspired philosophy that fuses exceptional Japanese product quality, classical French cooking techniques and exotic Thai fragrances and flavours. The first night will see guests treated to a ‘Tipsy Tapas’ evening at the resort’s 360 Bar, where innovative dishes include pork belly Sichuan style and salmon, spicy tomato & somtam. The following evening, Christian will present a six-course degustation dinner at the resort’s award-winning The Plantation Club, where menu highlights include five-spice short-rib beef with sweet potato; steamed cod with creamy wasabi and watercress salad; and a Thai mango-passionfruit soup and coconut rice milk foam.

Nestled high in the hills above Layan Beach, The Pavilions Phuket offers a range of 95 luxurious accommodations from private pool villas to spacious suites. Guests can enjoy two award-winning restaurants with gourmet cuisine prepared by an exceptionally skilled culinary team, a panoramic sunset view hilltop bar, state-of-the-art amenities including a spa and wellness centre and one of the largest free-form pools in Phuket.

14 January – Chef Christian Tipsy Tapas & Sunset
360 Bar, from 5pm | 4-Tapas set THB 850 inclusive of a glass of Taittinger Champagne

15 January – Chef Christian 6-course Discovery Menu & Wine Pairing The Plantation Club, 7pm | THB 5,300 (Early bird booking before 01/01/202: THB 4,300)

pavilionshotels.com/phuket

A Picture Perfect Christmas at Hotel Crillon Le Brave, Provence

Open for the First Time Over Christmas

Image: Hotel Crillon Le Brave © Mr. Tripper

Maisons Pariente has announced that it will be welcoming guests to Crillon Le Brave  this season, the property will open for Christmas and New Year for the first time providing a cosy Provencal getaway.

Located in the heart of Provence, Crillon Le Brave is the splendid 5-star hideaway reserved for guests who are disconnecting from city lights and fast paced life. The hotel is open to guests over Christmas and New Year to celebrate in pure luxury with loved ones without having a worry in the world.

Guests can enjoy a festive and New Year dinner at La Table du Ventoux, alongside a magic show for an evening of great surprises in the idyllic setting of Crillon le Brave. Surrounded by vineyards and breath-taking views, Hotel Crillon Le Brave offers a luxury, slow paced setting for a stay with the scents of Provence.

Nightly rates at Crillon Le Brave start from 350 Euros on a bed & breakfast basis.

crillonlebrave.com

Jumeirah Group announces the opening of stunning new address in Maldives

Jumeirah Group (has announced a new international resort, Jumeirah Maldives.

Guests can now discover Jumeirah Maldives, an all-villa luxury resort tucked away in the crystalline turquoise waters of the North Malé Atoll, easily reachable by speedboat or seaplane from Malé Airport. Its idyllic location offers privacy for romantic getaways, a blissful island retreat for friends and family and experiences to suit the more active traveller.

The resort’s surprising panoramic architecture and calming interiors are the work of sophisticated Singaporean design studio, Miaja, who have created an elegant contemporary ethos in harmony with the natural environment, echoing modern Mediterranean chic – a design that sets it apart from the rest.

Jumeirah.com/Maldives

Mandarin Oriental Announces Luxury Hotel in Nanjing

The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has announced that it will manage a luxury hotel in Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu Province in China, scheduled to open in 2022.
Mandarin Oriental, Nanjing will be located on the Qinhuai River and in close proximity to historic landmarks including the Gate of China, which forms part of one of the longest ancient city walls in the world built by the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty over 600 years ago.

The hotel will feature 106 rooms and suites with views of the river and the ancient city wall. There will be three restaurants and bars, including an all-day dining option, a Chinese restaurant and a Lobby Lounge. There will also be a range of adaptable meeting facilities, and a large ballroom that will cater to events and social functions.

The hotel will also have a Spa at Mandarin Oriental providing treatments and therapies, as well as an indoor swimming pool and fitness centre.

mandarinoriental.com

DoubleTree by Hilton to Launch in Bahrain

Hilton has announced plans to bring its DoubleTree by Hilton brand to the Kingdom of Bahrain. DoubleTree by Hilton Al Sayh Residences has been signed together with Al Sorouh Hospitality Development Real Estate and is due to open its doors in 2022.

Featuring 113 serviced apartments, 61 one-bedroom and 52 two-bedroom apartments, DoubleTree by Hilton Al Sayh Residences will be located just a short drive from Bahrain International Airport. Situated close to Bahrain Bay, a waterfront business district and mixed-use community with unique offerings of dining, and nearby several other attractions including The Avenues Bahrain mall which holds 120 stores and F&B outlets at its seafront location.

Guests will be able to enjoy uninterrupted ocean views in a number of apartments, an all-day dining restaurant and a sophisticated rooftop café and outdoor pool with views across Bahrain. The hotel will be located at Al Sayh, Manama, walking distance to Al Sayh Island, National Heritage Site of Bahrain. Its proximity to Sheikh Isa Bin Salman Causeway will provide guests with easy access to King Fahd Causeway to reach Saudi Arabia.

hilton.com/en/doubletree

Kouros Hotel & Suites

At this luxury hotel, guests can indulge in the perfect post-Covid getaway within the classical setting of Mykonos island.

Nestled on a prime spot overlooking Mykonos Town, Kouros offers guests the best of both worlds: the island’s vibrant energy just moments away, while the accommodation offers a tranquil setting of pure peace and relaxation. The windy isle’s famous windmills and Little Venice are easily reached, along with the island’s shopping, restaurants, and infamous nightlife.

Kouros’ personal approach to guest services and a people-centric philosophy make for an unparalleled experience to satisfy even the most demanding visitors. Always keeping customer experience at heart, the hotel recently underwent a full renovation, while the owners continue to invest in new guest experiences, including the addition of a brand-new infinity pool.

All 40 rooms offer a sea view, and a fresh modern design blends with Myconian architecture elements for an authentic Grecian feel. Guests amenities include the Zoe spa featuring organic brand Kos-Paris and comes complete with hydrotherapy area with built-in Jacuzzi and hammam. For those looking for the perfect couple retreat, two treatment rooms are available, while the hotel also offers a wellness centre and outdoor pool. Foodies will enjoy a classic menu with a modern twist at the Narcissus Restaurant, while making the most of the breath-taking Cyclades sunsets accompanied by signature cocktails.

Additional services include valet parking, in-room champagne breakfast, 24-hour front desk, multilingual staff, and express check out.

kouroshotelmykonos.gr

Fairfield By Marriott Continues Its Brand Expansion in Japan

Main image: Fairfield by Marriott Mie Odai Lobby Library

Fairfield by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, has announced the planned openings of six new Fairfield properties in Japan. 

The new hotels slated to open in 2021 are: Fairfield by Marriott Mie Odai, Fairfield by Marriott Kyoto Minamiyamashiro, Fairfield by Marriott Tochigi Nikko, Fairfield by Marriott Wakayama Kushimoto, Fairfield by Marriott Wakayama Susami and Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Takayama Shokawa.

The openings continue the momentum of the innovative “Michi-no-eki” project, bringing six more Fairfield by Marriott hotels to key locations near roadside rest stations called “Michi-no-Eki”, across four prefectures in Japan. The new hotels are situated close to national parks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, providing guests easy access to many undiscovered destinations.

fairfield.marriott.com

An Interview with: Carla Puverel

Carla Puverel, took up her role as General Manager of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island at one of the hardest times for the hospitality industry. Carla continues to drive innovation using her outstanding experience within the industry, and we asked her what it takes to be in charge of this luxury, tropical oasis.

Firstly, congratulations on your recent appointment at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. It’s been a turbulent year but how have you and the team coped in such unprecedented times?
Thank you, I am so proud of the wonderful team at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. We have all grown and developed so much over the last 18 months in very unprecedented times. We reopened the resort in late September 2020 and have grown from strength to strength as we have navigated the pandemic, the ever-changing goal posts, new restrictions, and guidelines, and we have had to continually evolve quickly to be where we are today. I have always tried to make sure that team members are continuously empowered and are given the opportunity to take ownership of tasks. Team members have adapted well to constant challenges, and all have seen this time as an opportunity for growth and change. Our guests have been wonderful during this difficult period and the experience for everyone has been very positive, despite much adaption and challenging times. Ultimately, communication and transparency are key within our teams, and empowering the team members is fundamental for me as a leader to see success.
During these unprecedented times, it is has felt like we have been given a clean slate as we all navigate on how we continue to give personal, heartfelt hospitality, exceed our stakeholder’s expectations, and embrace all the ever-changing ways of life, particularly related to the hospitality industry. I feel in a very fortunate position being at the head of this iconic resort, which proudly boasts a solid history of long-standing relationships with both guests and team members. Overall, our team members all have the same goals, ethos, and drive to take the resort to the next level of personal service, combined with authentic Maldivian experiences and reassurance that all guests have peace of mind during their time with us.

With over 18 years within the hospitality industry, what have been your greatest achievements?

I am very blessed to be where I am today and am very grateful for all the experiences that I have had, all the lessons I have learnt, and the many more to come. It is a wonderful way to live, grow and work, being exposed to so many different cultures, and live in so many countries around the world. I appreciate the team the most and seeing them being inspired and develop is a huge achievement as we strive for improvement daily. The last 12 months has been a big achievement for all of us at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. 

What drove you to a career within the hospitality sector and were there any people that inspired you?

I am passionate about travel, culture and history along with the ever-changing dynamics and constant growth and development of the hospitality industry. Hospitality evolves all the time, and you can never be stagnant or complacent! The diverse cultures and wonderful people I’ve met along my journey I have learnt so much and it’s encouraging to know there is still more is to come. I am inspired daily by the teams that I work with and the authentic experiences that are created for our guests. I have had many mentors along the way that I am still in touch with and reach out to often. 

What key attributes does it take to be a great General Manager?

It is so important to be aligned with the vision and ethos of the company, stakeholders, and team. Alongside this, being a good listener, understanding diverse cultures, confidently processing information, and building the best team of people around you. I believe its key to have a good understanding of the country you are working in and build good relationships with the long-standing team members to gain their knowledge and understanding of both the country and property.

The role of a General Manager has evolved vastly over time, but they should have sound commercial knowledge, as well as driving results, making good and clear decision’s and being agile. The most important attribute is to have the support of the team, to empower people and ensure everyone is accountable and passionate about our product, our resort, and our guests, as it takes an entire team to drive the success of a resort, the stake holder’s goals and the guest’s experiences.

What does a typical day entail?

Every day is different on Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, and each day brings new stories, challenges, experiences, and often lots of laughter and lessons. We meet as a team in the early morning and plan the day, as we often have private events to plan and entertainment in the evening. Planning is key in operating a remote Island resort, and everyone plays a big role in this. We then welcome guests during breakfast and greet the early morning seaplane arrivals. Each day is filled with passion, and many personal conversations and meetings with guests, team members, and stakeholders. I am generally up before the sun rises and start the day with a morning run alongside some of the early risers on the team, which helps sets me up for the day.  

Apart from COVID, what have been the biggest changes within the luxury travel industry in recent years?

I think one of the biggest changes has been seasonality in travel. As more people are starting to work remotely and children are continuing with online learning, the typical holiday seasons are shifting.  Also, flexibility in travel is, and will continue to play a major role in the future.  Guests require more flexibility in their bookings and can see the value that comes with long stay bookings. The length of stays in general have increased and will increase even further than it has already. Lastly, wellness and sustainable travel will be an even more important factor than it already is, and I think mindful and responsible tourism will play a big part in this. 

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is a unique, luxury destination, how does it differ from the hotels you have looked after before?

The Maldives is such a unique destination and Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is a pioneer amongst the Maldives and its hotels. Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is an island of many firsts for the destination, we were the very first hotel in the Maldives to have an over water villa, the first over water restaurant, the very first underwater restaurant in the world called Ithaa, the first resort with an underground wine cellar in The Maldives with over 3000 labels, and the very first 3 bedrooms over water and under water residence in the world, The MURAKA. Lastly, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island was also the first international brand resort in the Maldives and set the stage for many after. 

The hospitality industry has had to be creative and often diversify over recent months. What have been the positives for you and the team during this time, and have there been any initiatives that you are particularly proud of?

The goal posts have certainly shifted in the last 18 months and will continue to do so as time goes on. We have had to be agile and evolve quickly to ensure we keep up with the pace of change and last-minute movements. The use of technology is far more present in the resort than before, and using technology to communicate with your guests and keeping a personal guest experience, is a fine line in luxury and personalised service. HiltonClean stay has played a big role in our success over the last year and will also continue to do so as it gives our guests and team members more peace of mind.

Wellness and experiences continue to be a focus for many travellers. How does the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island adapt to an ever demanding clientele?

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is always keeping guests demands front of mind, however due to the unrivalled location of the resort, being surrounded by the ocean and nature, these attributes lend themselves to guests enjoying spending time experiencing the beautiful natural surroundings. Our resort is situated in the South Ari Atoll and is located very close to whale sharks and manta rays, giving our guests that are divers and keen snorkelers a wonderful experience being able to see these magical creatures in their natural habitat. 

We are also fortunate to have two beautiful spas located on the resort. The over water spa is more wellness centric with natural and organic products ISUN and the treatments focusing on wellness and mindfulness. The over water sunset yoga pavilion is a real treat for our guests, and we are in the process of developing an outdoor gym and fitness area with a range of TRX, weights, medicine balls, battle ropes, and a personal fitness trainer who can create bespoke workouts for guests. 

With our infrastructure set across two islands which are joined together by a bridge, we can offer both family and couples who are on vacation, personal experiences and adventures. We are very innovative with our culinary team, and with twelve dining options this gives our guests far more choice and options during their stay. 

We are constantly evolving our menus and offerings to our guests, and in 2021 we will be completing the final stage of our renovations, further elevating the guest experience such as refreshed water villas, revamped Atoll Market and new teens club, to name a few elements. 

Who are the typical guests at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island?

The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island guests are never the same as they are from all over the world and are seasoned travellers, which is part of what makes the island so special. We are very fortunate that our guests are forthcoming and know what they want when they go on holiday. We also have a large percentage of loyal repeat guests that travel to the islands at least twice a year, which always makes them feel like they are coming back home.  

What have been the most unusual requests?

We have had so many unusual and fun requests, which the team execute flawlessly and with such care and passion. We have had a couple get engaged in our world-renowned underwater restaurant Ithaa, where our divers were waiting underwater with a 

“Will you marry me?” sign, and our team timed the popping of the champagne perfectly. The couple returned a few months later to celebrate their honeymoon in The MURAKA – our most showstopping villa. 

What are your must-do tips for visitors to Conrad Maldives Rangali Island?

We have so many it’s hard to know where to start. There is nothing better than going snorkelling with the manta rays and whale sharks, it’s an experience you will never forget, and Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is the perfect location for seeing them. Also, a sunset cruise sipping champagne and watching the dolphins frolic in the ocean, a private lunch on a deserted sandbank, a personal Maldivian cooking class, spa treatment in our beautiful over water spa, and a private chef cooked dinner on

 the beach in the Quiet Zone, are a few to mention, but this list is endless. 

If you could sum up the resort in just three words, what would they be?

Evolving barefoot luxury

Lastly, what can guests expect to experience over the winter sun season?

Perfect warm tropical weather, lots of fun entertainment, our newly enhanced kids and teen clubs, manta ray season in the lagoon and surrounding area, innovative cuisine with lots of local flair and inspiration, and many passionate team members looking forward to welcoming you.