News
Khemraj Bhatt Appointed Executive Chef at Kuredu Island Resort

We are thrilled to announce the promotion of Khemraj Bhatt to the esteemed position of Executive Chef at Kuredu Island Resort and Spa, a proud member of Crown and Champa Resorts.
With over 19 years of culinary expertise and leadership experience, Khemraj’s journey in the hospitality industry began as a Trainee at the renowned Grand Hyatt, New Delhi, in 2004. He later participated in a transformative Hotel Operational Program at Oberoi Hotels, which shaped his mindset and deepened his understanding of the hospitality industry.
Throughout his career, Khemraj has held various key roles, including Commis 1 at Radisson and Chef De Partie at IHG – Intercontinental Hotel Group Eros, where his exceptional talent and dedication to culinary excellence were evident. He further honed his skills at Hilton Hotel, India, before assuming roles of increasing responsibility at Foodhall and Kenilworth Hotels & Resorts, where he was recognized as the Best Hospitality Personality among Kolkata hotels.
In 2019, Khemraj embarked on his Maldivian journey with Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, showcasing his culinary prowess as Executive Chef for pre-opening Oblu Experience Ailafushi and Oblu Select Lobigili. Since joining Kuredu Island Resort and Spa as Executive Sous Chef in February 27, 2023, Khemraj has demonstrated exemplary leadership and culinary creativity, enriching the dining experiences of our guests.
“I am deeply honored and thrilled to step into the role of Executive Chef at Kuredu Island Resort and Spa,” Chef Khemraj Bhatt expressed. “With a culinary operation spanning 8 dining outlets, I am dedicated to upholding the highest standards of culinary excellence and ensuring that every guest embarks on a memorable dining journey.”
Featured
Villa Resorts Maldives recognised globally for luxurious halal-friendly experiences

Villa Resorts Maldives has achieved a remarkable 9.1 rating across its properties — Villa Nautica, Villa Park, and Royal Island — reinforcing its position as a premier halal-friendly destination in the Maldives. Recognised with the HalalBooking Guest Review Award, this distinction highlights Villa Resorts’ dedication to delivering exceptional experiences tailored to halal-conscious travellers.
Each property in the Villa Resorts portfolio offers a unique and luxurious experience. Villa Nautica, located in the North Malé Atoll, blends contemporary maritime design with beachfront luxury, providing an ideal setting for guests seeking relaxation and adventure. Villa Park, situated in the peaceful South Ari Atoll, features family-friendly villas with private pools, lush gardens, and direct beach access, making it an ideal destination for halal-conscious retreats. Royal Island, nestled within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Baa Atoll, combines traditional Maldivian architecture with modern luxury, offering an authentic escape surrounded by pristine nature.
The HalalBooking Guest Review Award is particularly significant, recognising properties that consistently deliver high-quality guest experiences aligned with halal-specific needs. With over 500,000 properties listed on HalalBooking.com, Villa Resorts’ impressive 9.1 guest review score places it among the top-rated halal-friendly resorts worldwide. This recognition underscores Villa Resorts’ commitment to providing world-class service while respecting cultural values.
Villa Resorts caters to Muslim families with tailored experiences designed to honour cultural practices. The resorts offer halal dining options, private and spacious accommodations, and activities aligned with Muslim traditions. By ensuring privacy and comfort, Villa Resorts creates an ideal environment for families seeking a luxurious and culturally respectful holiday in the Maldives.
As demand for halal-friendly destinations continues to grow, Villa Resorts Maldives remains at the forefront, offering the perfect blend of luxury and cultural respect. Whether visitors choose to unwind in a private beach pool villa, indulge in halal dining, or explore the Maldives’ vibrant marine life, Villa Resorts promises an unforgettable vacation experience.
News
Celebration of flavour, culture, connection this Eid al-Adha at COMO Cocoa Island, COMO Maalifushi

As families gather to mark the sacred occasion of Eid Al Adha, COMO Cocoa Island and COMO Maalifushi invite guests to embrace the spirit of togetherness in the unparalleled serenity of the Maldives. Against the backdrop of turquoise lagoons and white-sand shores, each resort has thoughtfully curated experiences that blend culinary tradition with island elegance.
Guests can look forward to evocative evenings at COMO Maalifushi under the stars with Sea, Fire, Land and Salt — a beachfront dining ritual that captures the essence of the ocean and earth. Freshly caught seafood and prime cuts are grilled over open flames as the sun dips beneath the horizon, creating an atmosphere of warmth and celebration. Each Friday during the season, this sensory experience invites diners to savour exceptional dishes crafted with regional ingredients and a contemporary Maldivian spirit.
At COMO Cocoa Island, afternoons will be just as inviting, with a bespoke high tea experience that includes delicately spiced Karak Chai, handcrafted pastries, and the option of shisha — all served in a relaxed island setting that encourages unhurried conversation and connection.
“At COMO Hotels and Resorts, we believe in creating experiences that resonate on a deeper level,” says Peter Nilsson, Managing Director of COMO Hotels and Resorts, Maldives. “Eid Al Adha is a time to pause and reconnect with those who matter most. Through carefully designed culinary journeys and meaningful service, our teams at COMO Cocoa Island and COMO Maalifushi aim to provide a sanctuary where guests can reflect, celebrate, and truly feel at home — even in the most remote corners of the world.”
Whether celebrating with family, loved ones, or simply taking a moment of personal reflection, Eid at COMO offers a timeless blend of comfort, culture, and barefoot luxury.
COMO Maalifushi is the only luxury resort in the untouched Thaa Atoll, offering a rare sense of seclusion in the Maldives. Surrounded by uninhabited islands and vibrant marine life, the resort features overwater villas, beach suites, and family-friendly accommodations. Guests can enjoy wellness at COMO Shambhala Retreat, fresh and inventive cuisine, and exceptional experiences—from surfing and diving to stargazing and island picnics. With its remote setting, warm hospitality, and deep connection to nature, COMO Maalifushi promises an escape defined by barefoot luxury, serenity, and the understated elegance that defines the COMO experience.
COMO Cocoa Island is an exclusive private island resort in the Maldives, known for its serene ambiance, luxurious overwater accommodations, and world-class wellness offerings. Designed for those seeking tranquillity and connection with nature, the resort delivers a seamless blend of barefoot luxury and tailored experiences that cater to the most discerning travellers.
Cooking
Ifuru Island Maldives’ Social House introduces authentic Indian Thali experience

Ifuru Island Maldives has unveiled its newest culinary journey: the Indian Thali at Social House. This signature dining experience pays homage to the vibrant flavours, diversity, and cultural warmth of Indian cuisine, reimagined in the heart of the Maldives.
Inspired by Ayurveda’s Six Taste Theory, the Indian Thali is designed to provide a perfectly balanced meal that nourishes both body and soul. Guests can savour an array of authentic dishes that reflect India’s culinary soul, presented with the modern flair and island elegance that define Ifuru Island.

The Thali includes a generous spread of delights such as Jhinga Laziz, Butter Chicken, Boti Masala, Dal Makhani, Palak Paneer, Chana Masala, Tomato Rasam, served alongside Jeera Rice, Paratha, Mango Chutney, Masala Onion, Papadum, and a decadent Gulab Jamun Cheesecake.
“Crafting this Indian Thali has been a labour of love,” says Nadedja Bouacha, Executive Chef at Ifuru Island Maldives. “Each element is carefully prepared to honour India’s diverse culinary heritage while offering our guests a rich, comforting, and authentic experience in a setting as extraordinary as our island.”
The Indian Thali is now available at Social House, the resort’s popular dining venue known for blending global flavors with local flair and laid-back luxury.
Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or a first-time explorer, the Indian Thali at Ifuru Island is a celebration of culture, taste, and mindful eating.
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