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TRANS AIRWAYS MAGAZINE Issue 01 | 2019

Island Spirit It’s always the right time Discovering Maldivian to visit Turtle Hospitals of Maldives THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AT THE SUN SIYAM IRU FUSHI MALDIVES

• Endless white sand beach

• House reef with colourful corals and fishes

• Ideal for couples and families and why not, even the singles!

• 15 top level restaurants and bars (endless options)

• World Luxury Spa Award for 4 consecutive years

• World Luxury Restaurant Award 2017

• Leading Family Resort 2018 by World Travel Awards

&

DEDICATED PASSION

www.thesunsiyam.com Live the Diamonds Lifestyle

diamondsresorts.com #diamondsresorts #diamondslifestyle &

Live the Diamonds Lifestyle

5 diamondsresorts.com #diamondsresorts #diamondslifestyle 273x190.qxp_Layout 1 17/01/19 12:31 Pagina 1

OPENING 1ST JUNE 2019

MALDIVES RESORT & SPA

Malè Office: H.Shibaan, 20002, 5th Floor, Karankaa Magu - Malè - Republic of Maldives Phone: +(960) 300 8844 - Fax: +(960) 300 4848 www.emerald-maldives.com [email protected]

ISLAND BLISS DISCOVER AN ISLAND OF BLISSFUL SERENITY WHERE NATURE ROAMS FREE. AMILLA IS AN IDYLLIC ESCAPE FULL OF RICH EXPERIENCES – A SIMPLY STUNNING HOME TO CALL YOUR OWN.

Baa , P.O. Box 2123 Republic of Maldives T +960 6606444 E [email protected] www.amilla.mv

Born to Play

Unique, unexpected and totally memorable, our chic, retro-inspired getaway guarantees glamourous indulgence on an unspoiled Island nirvana. , P.O. Box 2123, Republic of Maldives T +960 660 8800 E [email protected] www.finolhu.mv

A LOYALTY PROGRAMME FOR MALDIVES AFICIONADOS We are proud to present the Maldives Aficionado programme to our valued guests. It is our goal to craft truly memorable experiences for those who stay with us, and we developed this loyalty programme as a way of saying ‘thank you’ for your belief in TSMIC. We hope to join you in creating many more special memories at our resorts.

For more information, please visit http://www.tsmic.mv/aficionado or scan the QR code to download the Maldives Aficionado app.

TSMIC_AD - - Jan 2019.indd 1 1/18/2019 3:53:36 PM Courtesy of Dr. Claire Petros Photo by Aishath Yusfa Athif

Photo by Aishath Nashidha (@nattulicious)

Photo by Bruno De Giusti Contents

7 9 11 Editor’s Note Contributors Welcome on Board

14 20 28 Maldives: Beyond sun, sand It’s always the right time Discovering Maldivian & sea to visit Maldives Cuisine

36 42 48 Turtle hospitals of Maldives Sneak Peak: Suraj Panda Island Spirit

54 58 64 TMA products & services Your Pics TMA Destinations

Issue 01 | 2019 5 Some experiences LEAVE YOU RICHER

Cast away all stress and crinkle your toes in the sands of a tropical island haven where the Real You can rejuvenate. Discover Maldives culture with a class, traditional massage or local village encounter. Or simply hide away in secluded luxury on an uninhabited island.

Explore the layers of island life. Soar above the scenery by seaplane and make landfall on a pristine beach. Step underground for a decadent tasting experience amidst lava stone and dive under water to meet colourful sea life. Swim, spa, play and indulge as you muse over the magic of JA Manafaru.

For bookings and more information, please call +960 6500 456 or email [email protected]

jaresortshotels.com /Manafaru @JAManafaru_Maldives Editor’s Note

Greetings

Welcome to the first issue of the inflight magazine of Trans Maldivian Airways under its new name Island Skies. The name Island Skies evokes a feel of the tropical splendor of the Maldives and the sense of freedom that you get as you glide over the expansive turquoise waters, the magnificent reefs and emerald isles of the Maldives.

Over the years we have presented you insights of the Maldives that spark the interest in holidaymakers. These insights have always offered a peek at Maldives through a lens that’s not always accessible for holidaymakers who often stay in the resorts. We have also brought you articles on how you can add action and adventure during your stay in the Maldives.

With the change in our name we have also changed the scope of what we present to our readers. With the new content design, we would continue to offer you the deep insights that we have presented to you in the past. However, we have added new content that would take you inside the operations that make the world’s largest seaplane operator fly and continue to offer you the experience of a lifetime taking you over the glorious seascapes of the Maldives.

As always, in this issue we present to you some unique insights into the life, environment, and as seen and presented by seasoned writers who have lived and experienced life in the Maldives.

Have an enjoyable stay in the island destination of your choice.

Published for

Island Skies Issue 01 | March 2019

Trans Maldivian Airways (Pvt) Ltd. Published by Velana International Airport P.O. Box 2023 Male’ Republic of Maldives www.transmaldivian.com

Issue 01 | 2019 7 W i  Elegan Tavel

it´ Wiparadis ou only holida

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VIP ARRIVAL SERVICE We pick you up directly at the plane and do all the immigration formalities for you, while you relax in our private VIP arrival lounge

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CUSTOMIZED HOLIDAY EXPERIENCES

DOMINIK BABEL AND TEAM | INFO ELEGANTTRAVEL.DE | WWW.ELEGANT TRAVEL.DE Contributors

Eleonora Fiorini Sarah Harvey Restaurateur and founder of Sarah Harvey is a professional Maldivology, is an enthusiastic journalist who splits her traveler and has been in time between the Maldives love with the Maldives since and the French Riviera. She her honeymoon in 2007. is the founder of Manta When not serving clients Media and has a speciality in at her restaurant in Italy luxury travel and tourism. she is planning perfect holidays for first time Maldives adventurers.

Verena Wiesbauer Fathmath Ijaza Verena Wiesbauer is a marine Ijaza is a Maldivian writer who biologist and environmental now resides in . Being consultant who founded permanently based in Sri an educational brand Lanka, she now gets to travel “Oceanoholic” and started in the Maldives once in a while Mermaiding in Maldives. She is as a ‘visitor’ enabling her to currently consulting the solar see local culture, customs energy company “Swimsol and traditions from kind of Maldives” an outsider’s perspective.

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Fluid Wood Products Jamie Barrow Jeremy Barrow +64 9 550 3125 NZ +64 21 22 77 690 NZ +64 21 2438 288 Auckland, New Zealand Maldives +960 757 3328 Maldives +960 788 0708 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] A true ‘Adults Only’ paradise capturing the essence of the Maldives through memorable experiences.

Romantic & Tranquil Moments

Komandoo Island Resort & Spa | Tel +960 6621010 | [email protected] | komandoo.com

komandoo komandoo-maldives @komandooresort @komandoo

Komandoo_TMA AD_2019.indd 1 04/02/19 22:27 Welcome On Board

A true ‘Adults Only’ paradise Welcome to the paradise! capturing the essence of the Maldives through memorable We take great privilege in welcoming you to Maldives and on board Trans Maldivian Airways. We are delighted to be a part of your vacation experiences. and strive to make your journey a wonderful experience. Your choice of traveling with Trans Maldivian Airways presents us with an opportunity to showcase the breathtaking beauty of Maldives from the top. We consider this a great privilege and thank you for choosing us.

Unrivalled luxury, stunning white-sand beaches and an amazing underwater world make the Maldives a top choice for a true holiday of a lifetime. The Maldives has perhaps the best beaches in the world and they’re on almost every one of the country’s nearly 1200 islands. The “one island one resort” concept in Maldives guarantees supreme privacy and lets you be at ease and soak in the tranquility.

This year is going to be an exciting year for Maldives as we look forward to the completion of the largest development project of Velana International Airport ever undertaken in its history. As you made your way to the TMA Seaplane terminal from the International Airport, you would have observed a lot of construction activity and development work being carried out. The new runway is already completed and we are looking forward to the completion of other associated facilities as well. Once completed, we envision an even better experience for everyone coming to Maldives on their dream holiday!

Romantic & Tranquil Moments We now fly to over 70 resorts in Maldives and the latest additions to our destination list are Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru in , The Westin Resort in Baa atoll, Carpe Diem Beach Resort & Spa in and Sun Aqua Iru Veli Resort in . Furthermore, we are excited to be welcoming few more resorts as we progress in 2019. With excellent customer service and our passengers’ safety being our utmost priorities, we endeavor to uphold our title as the World’s Leading Seaplane Operator and ’s Leading Seaplane Operator for the fourth consecutive year.

Thank you for choosing Trans Maldivian Airways and allowing us to serve you. We wish you a pleasant holiday in the Maldives and we hope this visit will provide you with lasting memories of sun, sand, sea, and seaplane.

Have a safe flight.

A.U.M. Fawzy CEO

Komandoo Island Resort & Spa | Tel +960 6621010 | [email protected] | komandoo.com

komandoo komandoo-maldives @komandooresort @komandoo

Issue 01 | 2019 11

Komandoo_TMA AD_2019.indd 1 04/02/19 22:27 An exceptional experience

…amidst the powder-soft sand, by the cerulean waves and under the tropical shade of the Maldives; our premier villa resort presents curated experiences in an all-inclusive offering. A sneak peek in to our offerings here, www.heritancehotels.com/aarah

T: +960 6640375 | E : [email protected] MALDIVES An exceptional experience

…amidst the powder-soft sand, by the cerulean waves and under the tropical shade of the Maldives; our premier villa resort presents curated experiences in an all-inclusive offering. A sneak peek in to our offerings here, www.heritancehotels.com/aarah

T: +960 6640375 | E : [email protected] MALDIVES Maldives Beyond sun, sand & sea Geography that people were living here as early Maldives and Island in the The Maldives consists of as third century BC. The Maldives Atoll () to the approximately 1,190 coral islands and its people are mentioned in north of the Maldives. The present grouped in a double chain of 27 several mariners’ logs and records script, Thaana was introduced in , spread over roughly 90,000 of naval expeditions by the Chinese the late 16th century and is written square kilometers, making the and the and later the British from right to left. English is widely country one of the most unique and other European explorers. spoken by and visitors destinations in the world. The can easily make themselves islands stretch over a distance of Culture understood getting around the 800 km from north to south. A proud history and rich culture capital Male’. In the resorts, a variety evolved from the first settlers who of languages are spoken by the staff Climate were from various parts of the including English, German, French, The temperature of Maldives Italian, Japanese and Chinese. ranges between 24oC and 33oC throughout the year. Although The Maldives has Capital Island the humidity is relatively high, the Male’, with a total area of 5.8 km2, constant sea breeze helps to keep been a melting is the capital of the country. It is the the air moving. The average sea center of administration and the temperature is around 26oC. pot of different hub of trade and commerce. More than 150,000 people live in Male’. Population cultures as people The population of Maldives has Economy increased rapidly during the from different In the last quarter of the twentieth last few decades. However, with century, the economy changed a population of approximately parts of the world from the age-old traditional system 400,000, the country still remains based on fisheries and agriculture one of the smallest independent came here and to a modern economy that rode on nations in the world. the success of the newly established settled down. tourism industry and a modernized Religion and mechanized fishing industry. Maldivians are devout and Maldivians enjoy the highest GDP rigorously follow the basic tenets world travelling the seas in ancient per capita in today. of . The Islamic Center which times. The Maldives has been a accommodates more than 5,000 melting pot of different cultures Currency worshippers dominates the skyline as people from different parts of The local currency is Rufiyaa. At the of the capital city Male’ with its the world came here and settled time of publication, the exchange shining golden dome and minaret. down. Some of the local music and rate is pegged at MVR 15.42 to a US dance for instance resemble African Dollar. If you are heading to a resort, Several mosques are dispersed influences, while other cultures and you need not worry about local throughout the capital and each traditions reflect East Asian and South currency as all your bills at the resort inhabited island is graced with atleast Asian characteristics and traits. can be paid by US Dollar, Euro or any one or two mosques where the other European currency. All major people attend to their daily prayers. Language credit cards are also accepted at the Dhivehi, spoken throughout the resorts. However, if you are visiting History Maldives, is a language belonging to Male’ or any of the local islands, you Archeological remains excavated in the Indo-Iranian group of languages. may need to hold local currency for different parts of the country prove The language is spoken only in the purchases you may wish to make.

Issue 01 | 2019 15 MIL_IslandSkiesNo1_2019_Artwork.pdf 1 1/22/2019 5:12:21 PM

Education Dhiraagu and Ooredoo Maldives. Maldives boasts one of the highest Both companies have roaming literacy rates in the world with 98% agreements with various operators of the country’s population being across the globe, which will enable able to read and write. Educational you to use your home number standards are among the highest while in Maldives. All the resorts in in the region and schools follow Maldives offer Internet Services. the British system of education. Some resorts offer broadband connections in the room while Maldives boasts Health others offer Wi-Fi zones at key The Indira Gandhi Memorial locations on the island. one of the Hospital (IGMH) in Male’ is the state run general hospital in the Shopping highest literacy country providing a high standard The northern end of Chaandhanee of medical care. ADK Hospital is Magu in Male’ is the place to be if rates in the one of the private health care you are looking for souvenirs to take facility in the country among home. A range of batik sarongs and world with 98% several other private hospitals and wraparounds, wooden handicrafts clinics. Most resorts have a resident and other knick knacks are available of the country’s doctor and a decompression from the shops lining the street. chamber is within easy reach in You will also be able to find some population being case of a diving emergency. souvenir items if you visit the neighboring islands near your resort. able to read and Business Hours Lookout for genuine Maldivian hand The working week in Maldives begins painted t-shirts and lacquered boxes, write C on Sunday and ends on Thursday. miniature dhonis and reed mats if M Government offices are open from you really want to take a piece of Y 0800 to 1400 hours and the private Maldives with you as a memento. CM sector from 0900 to 1700 hours. Most offices in the private sector open for Country Dialing Code MY business on Saturdays. Weekend +960 CY falls on Friday and Saturday. CMY Electricity K Communication 240 Volts AC All resorts offer IDD telephone services. Mobile telephone services Local Time in the country are offered by +5 GMT MIL_IslandSkiesNo1_2019_Artwork.pdf 1 1/22/2019 5:12:21 PM

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K A MYRIAD OF INDULGENCES IN CHEVAL BLANC RANDHELI

setting. To celebrate the art of gathering in a more exclusive way, guests can enjoy La Table de Partage experience. The Maison’s chefs design a family-style menu tailored to guests’ desires. To complete this variety of experiences, there are four bars and culinary journeys designed in collaboration with the Alchemists, who creatively imagine bespoke guest experiences. From beach picnics to private On the unspoilt Noonu Atoll, with flair. The Diptyque poolside barbecues, the choice 40-minutes north of Malé by serves the finest Japanese of private dining venue is seaplane or speedboat, Cheval and Southeast . endless. Anywhere on the Blanc Randheli is a journey Open encourage island, Cheval Blanc Randheli for the senses to enjoy during lively interactions with our invites epicureans to enjoy a day trip or for a longer stay. Chefs. Every evening, guests a moment of pure bliss and Cheval Blanc Randheli is sit upfront at the counter more. the expression of creativity top to see the culinary teams demonstrate their talent and and pure celebration of taste Cheval Blanc Randheli, pampering. In this Maison passion. Le 1947 fine dining pays tribute to , Noonu Atoll encircled by quiet blue waters +960 656 1515 and bright white sands, every interpreted with delicacy [email protected] craving is absolutely satisfied. and creativity in a Maldivian www.chevalblanc.com/randheli French tradition and colourful island accents envelop the palate and enrapture the tastebuds. Straddled between vast ocean views and a lush tropical garden, the White serves island-inspired flavours from dawn to dusk in airy relaxation. Perched on the turquoise waters of the lagoon, the Deelani offers an escape to lands afar. Named after a Maldivian breeze, it celebrates flavours of the Italian Riviera A MYRIAD OF INDULGENCES IN CHEVAL BLANC RANDHELI setting. To celebrate the art of gathering in a more exclusive way, guests can enjoy La Table de Partage experience. The Maison’s chefs design a family-style menu tailored to guests’ desires. To complete this variety of gourmet experiences, there are four bars and culinary journeys designed in collaboration with the Alchemists, who creatively imagine bespoke guest experiences. From beach picnics to private On the unspoilt Noonu Atoll, with flair. The Diptyque poolside barbecues, the choice 40-minutes north of Malé by serves the finest Japanese of private dining venue is seaplane or speedboat, Cheval and Southeast Asian Cuisine. endless. Anywhere on the Blanc Randheli is a journey Open kitchens encourage island, Cheval Blanc Randheli for the senses to enjoy during lively interactions with our invites epicureans to enjoy a day trip or for a longer stay. Chefs. Every evening, guests a moment of pure bliss and Cheval Blanc Randheli is sit upfront at the counter more. the expression of creativity top to see the culinary teams demonstrate their talent and and pure celebration of taste Cheval Blanc Randheli, pampering. In this Maison passion. Le 1947 fine dining pays tribute to French cuisine, Noonu Atoll encircled by quiet blue waters +960 656 1515 and bright white sands, every interpreted with delicacy [email protected] craving is absolutely satisfied. and creativity in a Maldivian www.chevalblanc.com/randheli French tradition and colourful island accents envelop the palate and enrapture the tastebuds. Straddled between vast ocean views and a lush tropical garden, the White serves island-inspired flavours from dawn to dusk in airy relaxation. Perched on the turquoise waters of the lagoon, the Deelani offers an escape to lands afar. Named after a Maldivian breeze, it celebrates flavours of the Italian Riviera Share with us #BaglioniResorts #BaglioniMaldives #LuxuryResort #Maldives Photo by Bruno De Giusti

It’s always the right time to visit Maldives

By Eleonora Fiorini Have you ever booked a trip to the Maldives, a long awaited and desired vacation, and then heard from your friends or read somewhere that you chose the worst time of the year - meteorologically speaking? Well, be ready to totally reset this information! This experience fully contradicted the common saying that in order to enjoy good weather in the What if I told you that you could Maldives, you can only actually travel to the Maldives in any season of the year, including travel there in the the off season and enjoy a great middle of the winter. holiday and good weather? Photo by Bruno De Giusti I can promise you that myself, having travelled to the Maldives for the very first time in the “rainy” This experience fully contradicted month of September without the common saying that in order having to experience more than to enjoy good weather in the 2 days of rain in a 2 weeks span. Maldives, you can only travel there in the middle of the winter. Mr. Bruno de Giusti, an Italian And so Bruno began to study telecommunications engineer in detail the Maldivian climate, and passionate researcher of documenting everything with the Maldivian climate, is here photos, satellite images and to explain to us in detail why spreadsheets, to better understand the off season is actually a fine the reason for this incongruity. time to travel to the Maldives. After 4 years of data and You see, Bruno’s father used to visit scientific studies, he came to the the Maldives islands every year for conclusion that the Maldivian a month in July, and every time, climate is extremely variable and he never had more than just a basically nice, all year round. Photo by Bruno De Giusti handful consecutive days of rain. Well then, if the weather is always variable but with tendency to be nice, why not travel there in the summer, when the prices are lower and the resorts less packed? A time period that also coincides with most people’s vacation time.

‘Off season?’ I know what you are thinking, the weather isn’t as nice, it is rainy… MONSOONS! Here’s the thing, it isn’t.

And Bruno and I think it is about time we reset this information.

“The climate at the equator is like a boiling pot, and you have to guess where the next bubble will come up.” This is how Bruno introduced me to the characteristics of the Maldivian Photo by Bruno De Giusti climate, when I had the pleasure of

22 Photo by Bruno De Giusti

interviewing him for this article. In short, there are all the ingredients for continuous instability: it is enough There are many myths to be that the atmospheric pressure drops debunked when it comes to the slightly, for the air around to raise weather and Bruno has willingly enormous quantities of moisture made available his knowledge from the ocean, dragging them and his studies to better explain into the atmosphere where they the Maldivian climate. quickly condense, generating clouds and downpours in a short time. "The climate at the The Maldivian archipelago, which falls exactly on the equator, with But here is the good news! Since equator is like a boiling atolls to the north and to the the Coriolis Effect is non-existent pot, and you have to south of it, features, like all the at the equator (which allows huge equatorial climates, a constant amounts of energy to be stored in guess where the next low atmospheric pressure - first the atmosphere), no hurricanes index of weather instability. can occur in the Maldives, and bubble will come up" bad weather doesn’t last long, In addition, the Maldives is literally moving quickly away; exceptional surrounded by hot water (around 29 weather conditions are very rare. degrees Celsius, which can become The energy of every system created 32 in the lagoon ... a dream!) and is in the Maldivian atmosphere can only wrapped in a very humid atmosphere remain limited in space and time; (with humidity between 60 and therefore, even if some phenomena 90 percent all year round) . appears violent during the wet season (downpours, gust wind),

Issue 01 | 2019 23 they are destined not to last. the wet one, which runs from May The atmosphere is not able to to November, defined by a more accumulate excessive amounts meteorological instability, and not of energy and so the bad weather by torrential rains that last weeks, episodes cannot last weeks and the dry monsoon, which as in other parts of the world, runs from December to April. like Europe for example. It is interesting to note that, Overall, this tells us that, year round, during the wet monsoon season, the climate is generally unstable. the humidity (85%) is only 5% But let’s not forget that, it higher than the dry season, but is also basically good! in areas of unstable climate a 2% raise in humidity is enough to Another important factor to create changes in the weather. keep in mind is that the Maldives climate is strongly localized. In essence, the two monsoons This means that if it is raining are just defining a greater or on our island, chances are that lesser chance of instability. the sun shines brightly on an island located two sand banks The clouds in the Maldives form south of us, for example. quickly, and just as quickly they can also dissolve. The typical clouds Speaking of monsoons, Bruno on nice days are small, short explains that the word monsoon height clouds that, because of the Photo by Bruno De Giusti really means “season”. There are daily pressure oscillation, tend to two monsoons in the Maldives: dissolve midday and midnight.

Photo by Bruno De Giusti

Photo by Bruno De Giusti

24 Photo by Fathim Riyaz

If you really wanted to avoid a months, and to not to get specific month, we would suggest obsessed with weather forecast to avoid travelling in May. This is beforehand or even once there. because during this time there is Avoiding the peak season of the Avoiding the peak a change in the winter months has many advantages, monsoon, and as we said before, like better resort season of the winter the air is more rates, fewer crowds, for a quiet, turbulent, so more relaxed vacation as the islands are months has many unstable. A patch less busy than during winter months. advantages, as we of bad weather Also, keep in mind that winter in May could last is considered the high season said before, like 45-56 days, wind for tourism to the Indian Ocean, can be stronger, largely because travellers want to better resort rates, the ocean can be escape the cold winter weather fewer crowds, for a rough and rain of Europe. Tourism booms from quiet, relaxed vacation more intense. mid-December throughout April. Photo by Bruno De Giusti Our tip is to In the Maldives there is no wrong consider the time to go! There is a high season Maldives year round, including and there is a low season, but it has the wet season, possibly for a 2 nothing to do with the weather. weeks stay during the summer

Issue 01 | 2019 25

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KUD_TMA Ad_Feb2019.indd 1 6/2/19 11:13 AM Discovering

By Sarah Harvey Chances are you’ve never encountered Maldivian cuisine before, particularly Discovering if this is your first time in the Maldives. Despite its popularity amongst visitors here, there are very few Maldivian chefs and you’re unlikely to find a Maldivian Maldivian Cuisine restaurant anywhere else in the world. But perhaps it’s not too surprising. The Maldivian diaspora is less than and sustainable yellowfin 6,000 and the entire population form the backbone of Maldivian Coconuts and is only 444,259, so it hasn’t spread cuisine - after all, they’re two things around the world in the same this small, geographically-isolated sustainable yellowfin way cuisine from countries with country has in abundance. Unlike in tuna form the backbone larger immigrant communities neighbouring India and Sri Lanka, has. However, this makes Maldivian there’s not enough space to cultivate of Maldivian cuisine even more unique - so why in the Maldives, so ‘roshi’ is not read on to get some insider commonly used instead (although knowledge about this tasty, some dishes do use imported rice). under-the-radar cuisine! ‘Roshi’ is a flatbread that resembles a very thin tortilla. A few such as chilli also go into Maldivian dishes, but most dishes aren’t too hot for foreign palettes, especially compared to many of the fiery Sri Lankan and Indian dishes.

Maldivian cuisine is so popular amongst guests that several resorts have created Maldivian cookery classes. This means you’ll be able to learn how to recreate some of the flavours of the Maldives back at home. The good news is you don’t need the skills of Gordon Ramsay to be able to be able to cook most of it!

If you’re curious about learning the basics of Maldivian cookery, resorts across the country including Veligandu, Jumeirah Vittaveli, Amaya Kuda Rah, Milaidhoo, Fairmont, Four Seasons, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island and the Soneva resorts offer Maldivian cookery classes.

I chatted to some of the organisers of the classes to find out more. Food and Beverage Manager, Aurelien Gliozzo, enthusiastically oversees Maldivian cookery classes at Veligandu with , Hussain Didi. According to Aurelien and Hussain, the two most popular Maldivian dishes amongst guests are ‘mas riha’ (tuna ) and ‘’ (fish balls).

Maldivian tuna curry is made from fresh , milk, Maldivian curry blend, curry leaves, rampa leaves, tomato, turmeric and seasoning. Gulha is a type of fish kebab, with fresh coconut,

Photo by Aishath Nashidha (@nattulicious)

30 dahl, green chilli, fresh lime juice, with the specialty chef and allows ginger, flour and seasoning. him to get to know the guests on a personal level. Guests can learn “Maldivian cooking isn’t really difficult about a new culture based on the in terms of skills, as it mostly just selected cuisine, learn new cooking requires you to be able to prepare all techniques and create a memorable the ingredients first, then cook them experience; learning while having in the right order. The only difficulty fun in their holiday,” he said. you might have (after leaving) is to “Maldivian cooking find the right ingredients and spices, Many resorts also have Maldivian that can sometimes be difficult in cuisine theme nights and or have isn’t really difficult western countries,” says Aurelien. Maldivian dishes permanently on the menu. Sometimes, the Maldivian in terms of skills, as Executive Chef, Christophe dishes are given an international it mostly just requires Waherung, agrees that tourists just twist to elevate them to - can’t get enough of Maldivian tuna level. Meet one of the foremost you to be able to prepare curry. He has also noticed ‘garudiya’ chefs working in the region, Mickael (fish broth) and lobster curry made Farina, who has worked at Kandolhu all the ingredients with local Maldivian lobsters are resort in the Maldives for five years. first, then cook them amongst some of the favourites. The Frenchman has produced his own cookery/photography book in the right order” “The dishes are very easy to make named ‘HIHsaa KURUN’ (featuring even at home, provided you Maldivian and international have all the ingredients,” says cuisine) and this year is opening Christophe, who added that there MEĀNIMA restaurant in Colombo. was so much demand from guests that the resort designed “Food “Maldivian cuisine has its own Play” cooking classes for guests. signature style, different to India and Sri Lanka,” says Mickael. “Food Play helps build a relationship “I’m personally a big fan of

Issue 01 | 2019 31 Maldivian cuisine. My cookbook At present, there aren’t many has around five Maldivian recipes Maldivian chefs working in the – reinterpreted, but the main industry, which is another reason flavours are there - as our way to why Mickael thinks it’s important to pay tribute to Maldivian cuisine. share and preserve the knowledge about Maldivian cuisine. "Seafood is a “We saw more and more demand from guests at the resort for “Unfortunately, there’s a lack of key element, Maldivian dishes, so my team and Maldivian chefs but I currently have I created some, with our own twist. two strong ones in my culinary and we also use For example, for the ‘garudiya’ - one team who have been with us for of the most popular dishes in the over two years. They understood local ingredients Maldives - we decided to cure the how important it is to carry on tuna in curry leaves and salt instead and represent their country’s from the garden of boiling it for a long time like culinary legacy,” said Mickael. what would traditionally be done. like pumpkin, “Every time we decide to cook some “Seafood is a key element, and Maldivian classic old-school dishes, , chilli, we also use local ingredients from most of our Maldivian staff would we make the garden like pumpkin, banana, get excited that finally they can curry leaves and chilli, curry leaves and coconuts,” access some of their classic cuisine he said. And he’ll be taking some which they rarely get these days. moments coconuts" of the knowledge he learned If nobody is learning it, Maldivian in the Maldives, as well as from cuisine will be lost. This is a legacy working around the world (and which needs to be saved. Just exploring 40 countries in his free like any other traditional cuisine, time) with him to Sri Lanka when it’s part of a nation’s identity.” he opens his new restaurant.

To make a reservation or inquiry, call +960 656 3000 or email [email protected] movenpick.com

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we moments make

To make a reservation or inquiry, call +960 656 3000 or email [email protected] movenpick.com ADULTS’ ESCAPE

A 5-Star, adults only island boasting a breathtaking undersea restaurant, a beautiful beach and some of the best snorkelling and diving in the Maldives. Stylish villas, restaurants, bars, combined with superb service makes this island paradise your best choice for an unforgettable holiday.

Hurawalhi Island Resort . Tel +960 662 2000 . [email protected] . hurawalhi.com

HUR_TMA Ad_Feb2019.indd 1 6/2/19 11:16 AM

The turtle hospitals of Maldives

By Verena Wiesbauer For more than 100 million years, sea turtles have covered vast distances across the world’s oceans, filling a vital role in The turtle hospitals the balance of marine habitats. Seven different species of sea turtles grace our ocean waters, from the shallow sea grass of Maldives beds of the Indian Ocean, to the colorful reefs of the Coral Triangle, and even the sandy beaches of the Eastern Pacific. Human activities have tipped the the most significant Green turtle scales against the survival of these nesting beaches in the Maldives! ancient mariners. Slaughtered for their eggs, meat, skin and shells, Individual sea turtles can be photo- sea turtles suffer from poaching identified due to their scutes on the and over-exploitation. They also head behind their eyes. The number, face habitat destruction and shape and edges of scales on the left accidental capture in fishing gear. and right cheek can be recorded and Climate change has an impact compared on photographs in order to on turtle nesting sites. It alters determine each individual, for which sand temperatures, which then often names are given. Hence, if a affects the sex of hatchlings. sea turtle is identified from a resort and seen over and over again on the Two out of the worldwide seven house reef, marine biologists often species of marine turtles are allow guests to name a turtle and commonly seen in the Maldives: its ID will be recorded in a national The Hawksbill turtle – a critically turtle database. Approximately endangered species - and the 2,200 unique hawksbill turtles, Green Sea turtle – classified over 470 green turtles, and over as “endangered” by the World 25 Olive Ridley turtles have been Conservation Union. Especially ID’d in the Maldives so far. the Green sea turtle ladies seem to like Maldivian beaches as their Thanks to the possibility to identify nesting ground to lay their eggs individual turtles, marine biologists both in local and tourist islands. in , for example, could Among these is the recently witness mating attempts of two declared protected island of of their local turtles – “Sapphire” Photo by Verena Wiesbauer in Laamu Atoll - one of and “Kaela”. “Kaela” is known as a

Photo by Float Huvafen Fushi Photo by Verena Wiesbauer Courtesy of Dr. Claire Petros

young male who just reached sexual registered charity - has recorded 528 maturity within the past year, already entangled Olive Ridley sea turtles, testing his newly found strength. counting for 87.9% of all entangled turtles reported! Collected data When sea turtles become victims from ghost nets suggest that when to ocean garbage and are found the wind blows from the northeast, by rescuers, they often become ghost nets are likely to be coming to patients. You may have already the Maldivian waters from Southeast heard of Ghost Asian countries such as India, Sri nets, also Lanka and Thailand. During the When sea turtles known as the Southwest Monsoon, pieces of fish “silent killers aggregating devices (FADs) indicate become victims to ocean of our oceans”. that the ghost nets are coming from Ghost nets are the western Indian Ocean and the garbage and are found fishing nets that Arabian Sea, entangling turtles have been lost, on their way to the Maldives. by rescuers, they often abandoned, or discarded Due to the frequent sightings of become patients at sea. Every injured sea turtles caught in ghost year, they are nets, sea turtle rescue centres responsible for have opened across the Maldives killing millions of marine animals. in recent years with one being in In the Maldives, the turtle species North Male’ Atoll, two in Baa Atoll most frequently found entangled in and one in . These ghost gear is the Olive Ridley, even four centres have holding tanks though it is rarely fond nesting in and resident marine biologists who the country. Between 2011 and 2018, can give medical treatment to their the ‘Olive Ridley Project’ – a UK patients. One facility recently got a

Issue 01 | 2019 39 brand new X-ray machine and has time stretching their flippers. Dhuni Kolhu for further treatment. advanced surgery facilities with a She has lost a back flipper from resident veterinarian. Before the Turtle patients that have been a ghost net and her front flipper X-ray machine had arrived, sea brought to these rehabilitation was very badly damaged from the turtles had to be taken to the nearest centres are, for example, baby Olive net as well. She had two broken (human) hospitals by speed boat Ridley “Eve”, who was rescued on bones and deep cuts around her just to get examined to their bones! Christmas eve 2018 and initially sent whole flipper. The flipper was The facilities in and in Landaa to the Marine Savers Rescue Centre operated and she got a splint to Giraavaru even got floating sea on the Four Seasons Resort. It was stabilize the area whilst it healed. enclosures, called “turtle pens”, to discovered she had a broken bone Interestingly, “Eve” made friends rehabilitate injured turtle patients in her front flipper so was sent to the with baby Hawskbill “Lisle” while directly in the sea, giving them Olive Ridley Centre in Coco Palm recovering, cuddling up to each

Photo by Aminath Thuhfa Athif

other in their tank, even though Once treatment is completed and the edge of Baa Atoll, just in time it is rather unusual for turtles to successful, turtles will then be to be back “home for Christmas”. develop friendships or even a released back into the ocean, such bond between different species! as in the case of “Nadia”, a victim of a If you find an entangled turtle, please ghost net, who spent time in various keep the net as it can give some Then there was “Phoenix”, who had rehabilitation centres for almost two information about where it came a large fishing hook embedded in years! She suffered from buoyancy from, and contact the veterinarian her esophagus that needed to be syndrome which prevents turtles for emergencies at +960 955 2205. removed, or “Lulu” – possibly a from diving down, spent a year in victim of a boat strike accident - who the Naifaru Atoll Marine Centre had to be dry-docked for two weeks slowly recovering and was later on antibiotics and got her cracked transferred to the Olive Ridley Centre shell fixed with dental cement. “Tao” to undertake swimming lessons to that came to the Marine Savers last make sure there were no more signs December, not only was missing of her syndrome. The biologists swam the right front flipper, but had also with her for a while to ensure she been excreting many small pieces wasn’t popping back to the surface of hard plastic and fishing net! or floating, until she disappeared off

40 Issue 01 | 2019 1

Veligandu_TMA AD_2019_final2.indd 1 11/02/19 07:42 Sneak Peak: Suraj Panda Ensuring quality, safety & security at TMA TMA has remained the largest morning to six in the evening. So, seaplane operator in the world we have to be versatile and flexible for many years. It is a unique to achieve this on a daily basis”. operation, conducted in as unique an environment. With more than As the Manager, Quality Systems a thousand staff in fifteen different & Compliance Monitoring, Suraj’s departments one wonders how highest priority is to make sure that such a large operation is conducted the Company and its operations with the mechanisms that would are in compliance with the rules ensure quality, at the same time and regulations of the Civil Aviation "I am the eyes guaranteeing the safety and security Authority of Maldives and other of its clients and staff. Island Skies government institutions, and that and ears for talks to the man in charge of all aspects of the operations are ensuring that TMA remains at the in compliance with the many the regulatory top of the game when it comes international standards that the to quality, safety and security. Company adheres to, in order to authorities maintain the highest levels of quality, Explaining the uniqueness of the safety and security in its operations. outside the operation Suraj says, “Flexibility is a great part of this operation. The “I am the eyes and ears for the Company" operation has to be versatile to regulatory authorities outside the seamlessly accommodate changing Company. That’s an independent variables such as delays in incoming role. On behalf of the Civil Aviation international flights and changes Authority I have to monitor and in weather and make sure that the make sure that the set standards are discerning customers who choose maintained at the highest level”. to fly with TMA are transferred to the resort of their choice within a Talking about other standards that given timeframe. As you may know TMA maintains Suraj explained. TMA operates only from six in the “We have several other regulations

Issue 01 | 2019 43 that we follow as well. We are include engineering, flight ops, the kind of schedule we have”. under the umbrella of several ISO ground ops, air navigations services, standards which cover various and other similar areas. Regular “I monitor these audits on a regular areas of the Company’s operations. reviews on manuals are conducted, basis. First and foremost, I ensure We maintain four main industrial and all such manuals and standard that all audits happen according standards; ISO 9001 which is Quality operating procedures are reviewed to plan, on the dates published in Management Systems, ISO 14001 and approved by the Civil Aviation the audit calendar. I make sure which is Environment Management Authority of the Maldives on a that proper feedback is received, System, then there is the BS OHSAS regular basis. Other regulatory and reports are published. If there 18001 (Occupational Health and compliances are also ensured by are any non-compliances, they Safety Assessment Series) and Suraj’s team. This would include are corrected within the timeframe ISO 22301, Business Continuity laws and regulations related to given by the auditor and agreed by Management System. These four labor, environmental laws and the department in question. Then certifications are meant for the non- regulations of the fisheries ministry, we have to follow up on the process technical aspects of the Company’s in relation to the water aerodromes and confirm that corrective action operations. These standards apply of TMA around the country. is taken so that it would not happen to all aspects of the Company such again. These corrective actions are as human resources, IT, food and Suraj explained that they draw up checked during follow up audits”. beverages, reservations and so on”. a full calendar of audits for each year. “This way we audit fifteen For Suraj maintaining quality, safety “Everyone in the Company departments of the Company in and security is an attitude that works with written processes, no 365 days. In my quality department needs to be impressed in the minds one deviates. If someone wants we finish an audit every third day of the staff. “Setting up standards to deviate, there is a deviation and open another audit. That is and SOPs is the easy part. As days procedure in place where they would need to offer a solid justification for such a deviation. Then we do a risk assessment, and if we find there is no risk we go ahead with the requested deviation”.

The Quality Assurance Department Suraj heads, is staffed by licensed auditors in the various standards that TMA maintains. “I have eight auditors seven of them are specialized in technical regulations and audits and they are also specialized in some of the ISOs. Some are 9001 auditors, some are 14001 auditors and others 22301. These are what we call licensed lead assessors. Some are specialized only in quality management and others are specialized in food and beverages or on environment management systems. That’s how they are trained, and their licenses are renewed every three years. I use them as and when they are required”.

The Quality Assurance team has busy audit schedules, and they are the ones who will communicate with all the external regulatory authorities. Audits relating to the regulatory environment would

44 culture rather than brings in their culture to the Company.

In order to ensure that this culture is instilled in staff, standards training is an ongoing process. “Annually we have a staggered program for all safety sensitive staff. We look at different safety concepts evolving around the world and we keep on advancing our safety management systems accordingly. We bring those progressive changes and drill them down into our training program. Once it becomes a part of our training program it becomes a set culture in our organization. Last year we trained 170 staff in safety management systems through our team”.

And training begins on the first day of work for anyone who joins the TMA team.” On day one in the induction pass people change, procedures program, they will meet a quality and change, functions are divided safety instructor. That’s where we set and redistributed, new functions the tone. This applies even if the new will come up. Different types of employee is a baggage handler or cultures will come in. We have a new manager, a pilot or a ground 23 nationalities in this Company. ops staff. I will be there to tell them Even the standards themselves are that these are the two prime areas evolving. In this kind of changing that those guys have to ensure they environment, the processes are open follow; quality and safety standards. to deterioration. The standards can And then they have to go through fall apart, and the system can break multiple rigorous programs and down just because of one person in trainings that follow”. And that’s not a department. So, we are on guard all. At the end of the training they are and we make sure the functions of tested for their understanding of the each department are conducted processes and if they fail they have to through a system driven process go through their training before they rather than a people driven process”. become full members of TMA team.

One safeguard against such Suraj Panda is a highly qualified deterioration is continuous Quality Assurance Manager monitoring of processes and rigorous with more than a decade of training of staff on the standards of experience in Trans Maldivian the Company. “While I emphasize Airways. His background is in on the process we also have to aircraft maintenance engineering acknowledge that good processes in and he holds an Aerospace MBA an organization does not make it safe from Toulouse Business School, or ensure quality on its own. So, we France. Suraj is a member of invest in training and we emphasize International Register of Certified on establishing a culture that values Auditors and holds several licenses processes and adherence to quality and certifications in auditing and and safety standards. Furthermore, monitoring of several international we make sure that when staff are industry standards in the area recruited they adapt the Company’s of aviation and other areas.

Issue 01 | 2019 45 Vilamendhoo_TMA AD_2019.indd 1 11/02/19 07:39 Revel in serenity

Awe-inspiring views in an area of unrivalled beauty, Adaaran Select Meedhupparu showcases the very essence of Maldives through its beautifully designed water villas, delectable cuisine and exotic aqua sport offerings.

T: +960 664 0375 E : [email protected] www.adaaran.com/selectmeedhupparu Photo by Aishath Yusfa Athif

Island Spirit

By Fathmath Ijaza Ask anyone who has chosen the Maldives for their holiday, why they have chosen the destination over others, and their answer would likely be that they wanted to get the magical experience of being able to walk barefoot on the sandy beaches and wade the calm turquoise lagoons of these sunny isles. That’s what the Maldives is most famous for, and what many aspire to experience. But often when they arrive on Island Spirit this ‘paradise on earth’, and if they get a chance to see the lives of the islanders living in one of the two hundred or so island villages, they are often amazed by what they see. Life is so relaxed here, so unhurried, to escape reality and become part seemingly free from the stress and of a reality that seems to radiate anxiety that are epidemic to the from nothing but contentment? hustle and bustle of the modern, technology-driven, information- The lives of Maldivians have been The lives of abundant life of the cities from shaped by the elements since the which they hail. The sense of first settlers put up camp in these Maldivians have amazement and astonishment islands thousands of years ago. stems from observing a lifestyle Their lives and the lives of their been shaped by so different to their own. descendants have been dictated by the vagaries of the weather, the elements It is not uncommon to see the the whims and moods of the seas islanders seemingly in various and the elements of nature which since the first states of rest, lying down outside surround them. True, they would their homes on rope woven joalis or have learnt the patterns of weather, settlers put simply engaging in a quite unexciting the monsoons and the currents, activity; a man unhurriedly mending and they would have shaped their up camp in a fishing net sitting on a bench under activities around them. However, the coconut palms, as if he has all on a given day, their lives would these islands the time in the world to complete have been determined by what it, a separating ekels from a nature throws at them, be it nature’s thousands of pile of palm fronds with no urgency bounties or natures wrath. Being on her face. Their movements are disconnected from the rest of the years ago. rhythmic, at one with the rustle of world and even from the rest of the palms, the soft breeze blowing in the nearest islands, they could not from the sea, and you would feel that they could sit there the whole day as if nothing else in their lives mattered. Although they may appear to be unperturbed, it is not that they have nothing to get done on that particular day. They are just not rushed about it.

The admiration and sometimes bewilderment about the lives of the island folk is something that always existed, even during those times when merchants, explorers and travelers from various corners of the world frequented these shores. They are so amazed that many have written about this in their travel logs and memoirs.

As you walk on the soft powdery beach with the gentle waves kissing your toes, you too may wonder how life would be for these folks who are destined to live here forever. What would it be like to wake up to the cooing of the koels, with the knowledge that you are surrounded by the ocean just a few meters away? Does it stem from a secret desire

50 complain but take what is offered. whole day spent roaming the seas in search of tuna, and they could One day they may wake up to find return home empty handed. The that a large shoal of mushimas next day, the sea could bestow (bigeye scad) has entered the them riches from its abundant shallows of the lagoon. The islanders bounty and they could be home The women folk instinctively hasten to get their rods with a boatful of tuna by midday. and wade into the water and spend would wake up the whole day catching as many The women folk would wake up as they can. They didn’t plan on in the morning and see off their in the morning doing it the day before nor they did husbands for fishing before dawn. think they would be spending the They would have no idea when and see off their whole day waist deep in the lagoon, they would return. They wouldn’t when they woke up that morning. know at what time of the day or husbands for night they would be called upon to For millennia fishermen ventured get their pots and pans out, clean fishing before out to sea in search of tuna leaving the fish, light the fires and cook the their fate at the mercy of the winds. fish, so they could preserve the dawn. They would The wind could drop, and they would blessings bestowed upon them. find themselves rowing without Be it noon or midnight they would have no idea when complain. The skies turn stormy do it as if by second nature. the wind blows too strong, and they they would return. had to bring down the sails and That’s the island spirit, and that’s endure the splashing rain as they what has sustained life here. It’s bob over the waves of the ocean. A what has evolved from uncertainty what happened before nor anxious about what may happen next.

She would have started the day before the break of dawn, to send her husband off for fishing. She would have prepared , swept the large white sandy front yard outside her own home. She may have gone to the forest to collect wood for fire, collected some fallen sea almonds to dry them and extract the tasty nut inside on another day when the time is right, and the nuts have dried. She might have also fitted coconut shells around the newly growing guavas in her backyard to protect them from bats and rodents. This is something she might have thought of doing while lying on the joali just the other day.

The rope she is weaving is a work in progress. Of , the rope is important, and it will have many uses for her and others once she has produced it. But It’s like a diversion that fills her time from her engagement in other matters that she may be called upon to attend. She would not have it in mind to complete making the bundle of rope before a certain time. If nothing else happens, she may be weaving until the afternoon prayer time. She may then bath her children and dress them up, sit them down to have a cup of with dried rusks while she picked the jasmine buds that grew outside in her yard, which and the hardships of life, of living she may use to prepare scented so close to and at the mercy of the water for the desert she has in mind elements. It’s a spirit that has been to prepare someday this week. instilled in them through being It’s a spirit that has ready to make the best out of what She may then walk her children has been offered. That’s how life down the road towards the beach been instilled in them has sustained in these tiny islands. where the islanders gather during through being ready to the late afternoon. They would look So, when you see that island woman serenely for signs of returning dhonis make the best out of sitting under the shade of the through the golden glow of the tree, her hand moving in setting sun. The golden orb of the what has been offered. graceful rhythm as she wove coir sun would sink beneath the horizon while seemingly lost in a thought, she and as dusk falls they would walk is practicing what has been passed on home. Life would go on and they will through generations; calm mindful take with an open heart what nature engagement, neither ruffled by bestows upon them tomorrow.

52 Innahura_TMA AD_2019.indd 1 04/02/19 22:30 Photo flights, excursions & more TMA products & services In addition to the air transfers we make for more than a million passengers each year, we offer exciting products and services on our aircraft that would enhance your holiday experience in the Maldives.

Resort Transfers freedom and the chance to Travel from the airport direct to explore and experience the Photo Flights your resort, on a flight that you will Maldives in a way few people have From the air it is magical and treasure as one of the best parts the opportunity; a charter gives breathtakingly beautiful. Photo of your holiday in the Maldives. you the freedom, the time, the flights offer a golden opportunity With us you will be whisked away privacy and space as you desire. for photographers to shoot their to your chosen destination once own pictures of the Maldives you arrive in the Maldives. We take VIP Flights from the air. Wherever you look you from the airport right to the For luxury seaplane travel look no you will find a perfect frame for beach of your resort. Flight times further than our custom designed a shot that you can be proud of. vary between 10 and 55 minutes, VIP Twin Otter aircraft’. Our air- Photo flights can be customized depending on the distance. conditioned VIP aircraft comes with to suite your specific wishes. an eight-seat configuration with Excursions a variety of amenities and cabin Passenger Evacuation A day trip or half-day excursion services. Our VIP aircraft comes We always wish our guests the can take you to an uninhabited with a ten-seat configuration also safest, most enjoyable holiday ever! island, where you can snorkel, with a variety of amenities and cabin However, should there be a need have a picnic and enjoy Maldives’ services. This aircraft is configured or an emergency for passenger pristine natural beauty. There to offer you more legroom and seat evacuation for urgent medical are hundreds of islands that you width along with comfortable seating. reasons, we do provide excellent can choose for your excursion, Cabin services on the VIP flights passenger evacuation service. from the twenty-six natural atolls include refreshing towels, bottled that make up the Maldives. water and soft drinks. Watch the incredible atolls slip by below while Private Charters you use the spacious seats to stretch Chartering a Twin Otter is about out and catch up on some rest.

Issue 01 | 2019 55 MORE THAN JUST A HOLIDAY

Kuredu Resort Maldives . Tel +960 662 0337 . [email protected] . [email protected] . kuredu.com

KureduIslandResort kuredu-island-resort-&-spa @Kureduresort @kuredu_island_resort

Kuredu_TMA AD_2019.indd 1 08/02/19 14:41 Award Winning All-Suite Resort

www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com

The Best 5-Star All Inclusive Resort in Maldives

www.lilybeachmaldives.com Your Pics with TMA

Selection of pictures sent in by our readers Please send in your pictures to [email protected] with your name, address, date and the route on which the picture was taken.

Zahid Imran Jokhio from

Praveen Cherukupally from

58 Nassim from Lebanon

Maria Dixon from UK

Alessandra Fabi from Italy

Issue 01 | 2019 59 Fathim Riyaz from Maldives

Veronica Campana from Italy

Dinaj Paranawitane from Sri Lanka

Kim Noseworthy from Canada

60 Steffi Haessig from Germany

Henar Romera Rey from Spain

Xiaoyi Peng from China

Issue 01 | 2019 61 Ahmed Rasheed from Maldives

Azizul & Shazia from UK

Haruka Takahashi from Japan

Gerhard Krenn from Australia

62 simply MALDIVES Enjoy the Beach all around Meeru!

Meeru Island Resort & Spa | Tel +960 664 3157 | [email protected] | meeru.com

MeeruIslandResortSpa company/meeru-island-resort-&-spa @meeru_mv @meeruisland

meeru.com/de meeru.com/ru meeru.com/cn meeru.com/fr

MEERU_TMA Ad_Feb2019.indd 1 18/2/19 3:53 PM TMA Destinations

HAA ALIFU ATOLL

JA Manafaru 316 km

Hideaway Beach 290 km

HAA DHAALU ATOLL

Fairmont Sirru Fen Fushi 240 km

JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa 214 km

NOONU ATOLL

Velaa Private Island 186 km Mövenpick Resort Maldives 188 km RAA ATOLL Noku Maldives 189 km

The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives 173 km Faarufushi Maldives 185 km Soneva Jani 173 km

You & Me by Cocoon Maldives 180 km Cheval Blanc Randheli 169 km Loama Maamigili 176.74 km Reethi Faru 162 km Kuredu 152 km Kudadoo Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa 156 km Kanuhura 150 km 147 km LHAVIYANI ATOLL Dhigali 156 km Fushifaru 145 km Meedhupparu 153 km Heritance Aarah 153 km Palm Beach 143 km Furaveri 155 km Carpe Diem Beach Resort & Spa 148 km Hurawalhi 148 km Komandoo 145 km Dhigufaru 144 km The Nautilus Innahura Maldives 130 km Maldives 126 km Cocoon Maldives 123 km Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru 132 km Reethi Beach 125 km Atmosphere Kanifushi 133 km Milaidhoo 128 km Amilla Fushi 124 km Dusit Thani Maldives 124 km Soneva Fushi 115 km Coco Palm 119 km The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo 111 km Finolhu 112 km

BAA ATOLL

NORTH MALE’ ATOLL (KAAFU)

LUX* North Male’ Atoll 56 km

Summer Island Village 43 km One & Only Reethi Rah 41 km Vivanta by Taj 32 km

Meeru Island 38 km LEGEND Four Seasons Kuda 17 km REEF ISLAND

RESORT Velana International Airport Updated as of February 2019 Male’

A HAA ALIFU ATOLL

HAA DHAALU ATOLL

SHAVIYANI ATOLL

NOONU ATOLL

RAA ATOLL LHAVIYANI ATOLL

NORTH BAA ATOLL

Veligandu 56 km A B ALIFU ALIFU Kuramathi 60 km ATOLL

Gangehi 84 km ALIFU DHAALU ATOLL Velidhu 78 km Nika 84 km

DHAALU ATOLL

SOUTH MALE’ ATOLL Bathala 63 km THAA ATOLL Maayafushi 72 km Constance Halaveli 67 km LAAMU ATOLL Ellaidhoo 67 km

Kandholhu Island 74 km GAAFU ALIFU ATOLL

Athuruga 85 km Constance Moofushi 94 km

Biyadhoo 29 km SEENU ATOLL Thudufushi 98 km Drift Thelu Veliga by Castaway 90 km Rihiveli by Castaway 41 km Lily Beach 85 km

VAAVU ATOLL Vilamendhoo 87 km Conrad 109 km Zazz Maldives 88 km Dhiggiri 61 km Mirihi 103 km Maafushivaru 93 km Amaya Kuda Rah 96 km Alimatha 65 km Centara 96 km Vakarufalhi 96 km LUX* South Ari Atoll 102 km

SOUTH ARI ATOLL

Filitheyo 119 km FAAFU ATOLL

Sun Aqua Iru Veli 143 km Angsana Velavaru 144 km Baglioni Maldives 153 km MEEMU ATOLL The St. Regis Maldives The Sun Siyam Iru Veli 154 km Vommuli Resort 158 km aaaVeee Medhufushi 144 km Nature’s Paradise 160 km Hakuraa Huraa 148 km

DHAALU ATOLL

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C [email protected] | +960 658 7070 M www.faarufushi.com

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[email protected] | +960 658 6060 www.dhigali.com

STAY WITH US

+960 743 5792 [email protected] Sun Siyam Resorts www.sunsiyam.com