Meenakshi Sundaram
What kind of activities has the Residence Maldives planned this year for the Indian market?
India is one of the key markets for us. Thanks to the unique location of our twin properties, guests have an advantage of experiencing two islands and two vibes in a single trip to the Maldives. This positions our resorts as a wholesome vacation hub for families, friends as well as solo travellers. While the resort in Dhigurah is ideal for multi-generational family holiday, the one nestled on Falhumaafushi, an island in the Gaafu Alifu atoll is perfect for honeymoon and romantic escapes.
We have recently launched Renewal Retreats programme, which is designed to promote personal transformation. There are yoga classes for all abilities, bicycles to ride from island to island, and two programmes, Just the two of us and The Residence Bliss, offered at The Spa by Clarins. The guests can also enjoy a private dinner under the canopy of stars on castaway island. We also plan to restart our island exploration day activity to offer a peek into the Maldivian way of living.
What are you offering to the Indians?
Indian guests have refined tastes when it comes to luxury vacation. We offer immersive experiences, warm hospitality, and cultural engagements to discerning travellers. We understand their culinary preferences and have a specially curated Indian buffet in The Dining Room at Dhigurah that is made by chefs from India, along with a children’s menu at the resort’s main restaurant. We arrange picnics, barbeque, and beach dinners for families on request.
Young couples can enjoy some downtime as children enjoy activities including Dhivehi language practice, learning bodu beru drums, and local crafts like leaf weaving at the Turtle Kids Club under the supervision of our trained staff.
Maldives as a destination got some good numbers from India in 2021 and 2022. How was it for your hotel?
With the Maldives recording a good number of tourist arrivals, the years 2021 and 2022 have been good for the hospitality industry too. We have been hosting many Indian guests.
What kind of numbers are you targeting for this year?
We have been witnessing a steady growth in demand from India and aim to increase the numbers this year. We already have many Indian guests, both families and honeymooners, staying at the resorts since the beginning of this year.
Cycling through the gardens of The Residence Maldives
What is your engagement with the local community in terms of sustainability?
Sustainability is one of the core values that guides our community outreach and eco-friendly practices. We have upskilling programmes and cross-property training for our staff to enhance their professional and personal lives. The Residence Maldives has donated funds to various causes, including local hospital in Villingili Atoll, Dhaandhoo Pre-school to improve their facilities and Nilandhoo village for setting up a compost farm. The hotel staff has also established a strong bond with the local communities and engage in activities such as beach cleaning and community gardening.
With the Cenizaro Cares programme, an integral part of our company’s sustainability programme, we give back to the environment, its people, and the local community. We will soon launch the Nature Nurtures, Nurture Nature programme, which is an extension of the Cenizaro Cares with a focus on the environment.
