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Barefoot luxury reaches new heights at Lonubo – an idyllic private island adjacent to OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort where guests can indulge in the epitome of serenity

  OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort is pleased to unveil an unparalleled experience in barefoot luxury travel, allowing its esteemed guests to bask in the epitome of relaxation on their own secluded haven – the exquisite Lonubo private island.   Situated just 200 metres from OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort, Lonubo boasts lush palm-covered landscapes and promises an exclusive retreat with unparalleled tranquility and privacy for an unforgettable experience.   "With a private island at their disposal, OUTRIGGER guests can elevate the castaway beach experience to unprecedented heights," affirms the resort’s General Manager, John Allanson. "Our commitment to privacy and exclusivity, coupled with luxurious touches, ensures an experience beyond compare."   Upon arrival at Lonubo via a private boat transfer, couples are welcomed to their own private paradise equipped with sun loungers, plush beanbags, sunshades, towels and light refreshments for a four-hour escape into unparalleled bliss.   For those seeking to elevate their experience, an optional gourmet picnic awaits, complete with a curated setup and a selection of delectable food and beverages tailored to their preferences. Romantic evenings can be further enhanced with a starlit barbecue beach dinner, featuring a private chef and waiter ensuring an indulgent barefoot wining and dining experience.   As the sun sets, guests can choose optional enhancements such as an open log fire, tantalising canapés paired with Taittinger Brut Reserve champagne and a private movie screening featuring the film of their choice.   For culinary connoisseurs, the resort's chef recommends the ultimate surf and turf dinner – a lavish feast featuring a one-kilo Maldivian lobster and 500g of black Angus tenderloin steak, expertly grilled to perfection by the dedicated chef on Lonubo.   A detailed brochure outlining the exquisite Lonubo Island private experience is available for interested guests.   To make this dream-like experience a reality, OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort is pleased to offer exclusive savings and value-added promotions until 4 December, 2023, as part of the resort's CYBER Sale promotions. Visit OUTRIGGER.com to seize this exceptional opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime escape.

 

Experience Exquisite Culinary Delights as Eyck Zimmer Takes Centre Stage at OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru in January 2024

  Multiple award-winning international chef Eyck Zimmer will bring his culinary expertise to the luxury OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort 17-31 January 2024.   Zimmer will curate two extraordinary five-course dining experiences at the resort's Art-i-san restaurant, as well as host two captivating cooking demonstrations.   Hailing from Germany, Eyck Zimmer stands as one of the foremost luminaries in the world of contemporary haute cuisine. His illustrious career has been adorned with accolades, including the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de Grande Bretagne in 2000, British Chef of the Year in 2006 and Portuguese Chef of the Year in 2008. His remarkable contributions to French culture and culinary excellence were acknowledged by the French Government, bestowing upon him the esteemed title of Chevalier du Mérite Agricole in 2014. Furthermore, he earned the distinguished title of Master of Culinary Arts from the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts of Great Britain.   Zimmer's culinary journey has been punctuated by stints in some of the United Kingdom's most renowned kitchens, including Claridge's, The Dorchester, The Ritz and The Savoy. His culinary prowess has also left an indelible mark on five-star establishments in Switzerland, Portugal, Serbia, and Germany.   Presently, Eyck Zimmer serves as the Director of Culinary at the illustrious Jockey Club in Hong Kong, where he continues to channel his passion for the culinary arts. His unwavering dedication to his craft is epitomised by his motto, "Born to cook. No plan B!"   Growing up in East Germany during the era of the Cold War, Zimmer's affinity for food was cultivated at a young age. Inspired by the renowned French chef Paul Bocuse, he embarked on his culinary journey at the age of 16. Over the span of 36 years, Zimmer has enriched the culinary landscape in six different countries, earning him high acclaim.   It is worth noting that Eyck Zimmer shares a special history with OUTRIGGER Maldives, as he previously collaborated with the resort's General Manager, John Allanson, during their time at Rocco Forte’s The Lowry Hotel in Manchester from 2005 to 2007.   Zimmer's previous collaborations with OUTRIGGER in the Maldives, in 2017 and 2019, were marked by his exceptional commitment to both guests and hosts, leaving an indelible impression on those fortunate enough to experience his artistry.   Christopher Long, Executive Chef at OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru, speaks highly of Eyck Zimmer, noting, "Eyck gave a tremendous amount of time to both guests and hosts on his previous visits. Despite his many achievements, Eyck remains extremely humble. I am particularly looking forward to his return to OUTRIGGER Maldives."   This January, guests at the OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort will once again have the privilege of savouring the exquisite culinary creations of Eyck Zimmer, an icon of modern European haute cuisine.   For more information and bookings, visit OUTRIGGER.com or contact your preferred travel advisor. Join OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort for an unforgettable culinary journey, where the art of gastronomy meets the essence of barefoot luxury.

  Get ready to unwrap the magic of Christmas and ring in the New Year in true barefoot luxury style at OUTRIGGER Resorts in Koh Samui, Khao Lak and Phuket. From the little ones to the young at heart, OUTRIGGER has a sleigh-load of festive activities to make your holidays unforgettable.   OUTRIGGER Koh Samui Beach Resort   This beachfront resort has pre-festive fun with live band, fire show, Christmas carols, lucky draw, sumptuous food, competitions for kids and visits by Santa on the evenings of 22, 23 and 24 December. Christmas Day lunch is a relaxed beachside affair, with Santa presenting surprises to the children. Get ready to party in style on New Year’s Eve with sumptuous seafood, prime cuts, a mesmerising fire show, a live band and DJ beats that will keep you grooving all night long. The Coral Kids Club has ample activities to keep the kids entertained as well. Full OUTRIGGER Koh Samui festive programme details are here.   OUTRIGGER Khao Lak Beach Resort   At OUTRIGGER Khao Lak on the Andaman Sea, the resort will regale guests with beachfront festive fun on Christmas Eve, with carols, roast turkey, charcoal grilled seafood, live entertainment and a visit by Santa, who will also be there for the Christmas Day beachfront afternoon event for children. When it's time to bid farewell to 2023, join us on New Year's Eve for a sumptuous tropical beach BBQ, a thrilling lucky draw, live band vibes, a DJ to keep the dance floor sizzling and an awe-inspiring fireworks extravaganza that'll light up the night. Dive into our complete programme details here.   OUTRIGGER Surin Beach Resort in Phuket   In Phuket, OUTRIGGER will hold a festive Christmas Eve celebration dinner at its Nalu Bar and Grill. There will be delectable seafood options, tenderloin, ribeye, duck, imported cheeses and Christmas pudding, while DJ Rudi sets the perfect beats. On New Year’s Eve guests can indulge in a gastronomic journey at Nalu with mixed grill delights, a seafood symphony and a mixed surf and turf extravaganza. DJ Rudi will make it a night to remember from 10pm to 2am. Full details here.   SPECIAL OFFER   The three OUTRIGGER Resorts in Thailand are currently running a special “Welcome (back)” promotion of up to 15% off plus bonus inclusions. The special rates can be used for this coming Christmas and New Year period. Visit your preferred paradise in Thailand on OUTRIGGER.com and enter code “WELCOME” when booking.

  Prepare to indulge in a blissful escape as OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort announces its extraordinary Christmas and New Year programme, elegantly curated for discerning travellers seeking the epitome of barefoot luxury. From 19 December 2023 through 1 January 2024, this island paradise in the South Ari Atoll beckons guests to partake in a festive celebration like no other.   Elevating the art of culinary mastery, the resort’s renowned Chef Christopher Long presents an opulent Christmas Eve buffet market, a symphony of flavours and global culinary delights to tantalise guest’s taste buds. Dive deeper into the culinary world with immersive masterclasses, where guests can learn the secrets of crafting sushi, Vietnamese hand rolls and indulge in the perfect mojito. Experience the art of pairing chocolate and wine, create wellness-boosting smoothies and master the craft of artisanal coffee making.   For those enchanted by the turquoise waters that envelop this tropical destination, an array of aquatic adventures awaits. Immerse in the sunset cruise of a lifetime or partake in thrilling big game fishing (catch and release). Glide atop the pristine waters on paddleboards, embark on guided kayaking expeditions around the island, join snorkel excursions to discover vibrant marine life, or venture on guided trips to encounter graceful manta rays.   Dive into the enchanting world beneath the waves with Danielle Stanley, the resort’s resident marine biologist, as she presents OUTRIGGER Zone — a global conservation initiative that redefines the way we connect with and protect our planet's precious marine ecosystems.   Nurture your physical and spiritual well-being as you engage in revitalising yoga and well-being sessions curated by OUTRIGGER’s resident instructor, Ajay Sharma. The sunrise and sunset yoga sessions, balance and strength workouts, flow yoga and cross-fit are created to rejuvenate body, mind, and soul.   As Christmas morning dawns, Santa Claus himself will grace guests with his presence, joining then for a sumptuous breakfast celebration.   Bid adieu to the waning year in style on New Year's Eve, where guests can join OUTRIGGER’s management team for an exquisite cocktail gathering, bidding farewell to the last sunset of the year. As twilight turns to night, delight in an around-the-globe gourmet dinner that will be followed by electrifying dance music spun by the renowned DJ Matty from 10:30 p.m., ushering in the new year with unparalleled glamour and revelry.   Captivate fellow travellers and share the magic of the stay by participating in OUTRIGGER’s festive Instagram contest. Post cherished moments with key hashtags for a chance to win a romantic traditional “dhoni” sailing boat sunset cocktail experience for two, a blissful 60-minute couples' massage, or an enchanting beachfront dinner for two under the starlit Maldivian sky.   For the full list of optional Christmas and New Year guest activities, click HERE.   A mere 25-minute seaplane flight away from the modern and efficient seaplane terminal at Malé International Airport, the newly refurbished OUTRIGGER Maldives boasts 81 luxuriously appointed opulent villas and five captivating dining establishments. It stands as the embodiment of a lavish lifestyle holiday, infused with the signature warmth and hospitality that OUTRIGGER is renowned for.

Outrigger Webinar Training Series

  Watch and dive headfirst into all-things-Outrigger. Hear from our APAC team on the latest from Castaway Island; get a sneak peek into renovations at Outrigger Kona; and be entered for a chance to win a stay at our unforgettable beachfront locations!...(2) nights Outrigger Reef; (2) nights Outrigger Kona; (2) nights Outrigger Kaanapali.

  OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels has finalised its acquisition of the iconic Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel, situated on the sands of world-famous Kā‘anapali Beach – recently ranked as the No. 1 beach in the U.S. and No. 10 Beach in the World by TripAdvisor. The 11-acre (4.5ha), 432-room property will now sail under the banner of OUTRIGGER Kā‘anapali Beach Resort, allowing travellers to experience the soulful essence of authentic Hawaiian culture fused with OUTRIGGER Signature Experiences.   The completed purchase on 26 July further anchors OUTRIGGER in its mission to be "The Premier Beach Resort Company in the World" and heralds a new chapter in its global voyage of delivering barefoot luxury with unparalleled hospitality across Hawaii, Fiji, Mauritius, Thailand and the Maldives.   “As a Hawaii-based company for 75 years, we have cultivated a profound appreciation for this enchanting place and its people,” said Jeff Wagoner, president and CEO of OUTRIGGER Hospitality Group. “We understand the responsibility of being exceptional stewards of this treasured land and embrace the opportunity to continue the tradition of excellence at this extraordinary property. The Kā‘anapali Resort area is undeniably a sought-after destination, captivating travellers from across the globe with its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. We are committed to elevating this experience to new heights while being a collaborative community partner.”   One of the cornerstones of every OUTRIGGER resort is a must-visit beach bar. Maui Brewing Co., a beloved local brand with a deep island heritage, will be the primary restaurant at OUTRIGGER Kā‘anapali Beach Resort. Set to open later this summer, the beachfront space will further enhance the allure of the resort, offering a family-friendly dining experience for breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as live music.   In addition to premium culinary offerings, OUTRIGGER Kā‘anapali Beach Resort will also remain true to The OUTRIGGER Way by continuing to provide enriching cultural activities for all guests, as well as sustainability measures to protect and preserve the shores of Kā‘anapali Beach through the company’s global OUTRIGGER Zone initiative. This includes offering complimentary reef-safe sunscreen from its partner Raw Elements, as well as metal water bottles and reusable bags at check-in for guests to practice sustainability.   OUTRIGGER Kā‘anapali Beach Resort will be added to the award-winning OUTRIGGER DISCOVERY loyalty programme, which rewards guests with exclusive member rates and DISCOVERY Dollars for staying at OUTRIGGER, as well as more than 800 hotels in the GHA DISCOVERY portfolio.   Say aloha to unforgettable happenings and unparalleled hospitality at OUTRIGGER Kā‘anapali Beach Resort by booking a room today at: www.outrigger.com or through your preferred travel advisor.

 

From clean-ups to coral planting, OUTRIGGER focuses on ocean health, this World Ocean Month

  This June for World Ocean Month, OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels has pledged to continue making a difference at its premier beach resorts worldwide. Activities connected to ocean health and conservation will take place at each OUTRIGGER resort throughout the month. Each event will empower, educate and inspire guests and hosts to care for our oceans. A sample of OUTRIGGER'S World Ocean Month activities includes: THAILAND  

• OUTRIGGER Khao Lak Beach Resort, in association with Mangrove Resources Conservation Centre and the local community, will plant 2,000 mangrove trees and collect trash on the shore where the mangrove trees are being planted. Mangrove trees reduce shoreline erosion, protect coastal communities against flooding and are a spawning habitat for a wide variety of marine life.
• OUTRIGGER Koh Samui Beach Resort will join Trash Heroes in a community beach cleanup and also join Baan Tai Crab Bank in releasing baby crabs into the ocean. Those participating will be educated on the lifespan of crabs, the importance of habitat and responsible fishing practices.
• OUTRIGGER Surin Beach Resort will join Phuket Mangrove Resources Conservation Centre and the local community in planting 2,000 mangrove trees in addition to releasing fish and prawns to the sea for the conservation of a sustainable mangrove forest.

  MALDIVES  

• OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort will have coral planting, a whale shark and manta excursion, arts and crafts using plastic from the ocean, a school visit to bring awareness to ocean conservation, an evening documentary introduced by the resort’s marine biologist, plus activities and a data identification session on whale sharks and manta rays.

  FIJI  

• Castaway Island, Fiji Resort will hold an environmentally themed race in addition to planting coral, making fish houses (a natural habitat for marine life), cleaning up underwater and planting coastal fruiting trees that provide fruit, shade and protection.
• OUTRIGGER Fiji Beach Resort will have a beach and roadside cleanup, realign and clean coral tables, remove Crown of Thorns starfish, which damage coral reefs and are one of the major causes of coral decline, plant coral and make and sink fish houses.

  MAUI  

• Aina Nalu Lahaina by Outrigger and Kaanapali Maui at the Eldorado by Outrigger will participate in beach cleanups and OUTRIGGER Honua Kai Resort & Spa will care for its adopted highway.

  KAUAI  

• Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kauai by Outrigger will engage host children in a colouring contest voted on by hosts, guests and others for fun prizes.

  HAWAII ISLAND  

• OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa, Fairway Villas Waikoloa by Outrigger and Royal Sea Cliff Kona by Outrigger will partner with Kahalu‘u Beach for a clean-up and to support the “Reef Teach” team who will educate on cauliflower coral spawning at Kahalu‘u Bay.

  “As a global toes-in-the-sand brand, OUTRIGGER has a front-row seat to our ocean and we have a responsibility for its care now and for future generations,” said Monica Salter, VP of Global Communications and Social Responsibility. “We aim to inspire action for the good of our planet this World Ocean Month and beyond.” OUTRIGGER’s Hawaii resorts are now Green Seal certified and are founding members of the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s Responsible Stay initiative. They are also part of Global Hotel Alliance’s new Green Collection. Since the founding of its global OUTRIGGER Zone conservation initiative in 2014, the company has preserved, protected and planted approximately 100 football fields of coral reef and was the first Hawaii hospitality brand to champion reef-safe sunscreen and provide it for guests.

  OUTRIGGER Khao Lak Beach Resort has gathered three leading guest satisfaction accolades in the last few weeks.   Tourists travelling with HolidayCheck have praised the resort which has earned the accolade “Recommended on HolidayCheck 2023”.   HolidayCheck enables package travel reviews and bookings in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, under the HolidayCheck brand.   Booking.com has also awarded the resort 9 out of 10 in its Traveller Review Awards 2023.   The resort also earned a TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Winner Award 2023.   “Our hosts work hard to make guests feel special,” said Sujittra Rongmuang, Resort Manager of the OUTRIGGER Khao Lak Beach Resort. “When visiting families and couples experience our OUTRIGGER Way service standards, combined with our wonderful beach location, it makes for a great holiday — as many reviews now show.”   The 158-key garden resort in a delightful beachfront setting on peaceful Bang Sak beach is a 90-minute drive north of Phuket international airport.   Travellers can find out more about OUTRIGGER Khao Lak Beach Resort and book on  OUTRIGGER.com.

OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort’s newly appointed resident marine biologist has outlined plans for World Ocean Month. Running through June, guests can learn about conservation activities beyond World Reef Day on 1 June, World Environment Day on 5 June and World Ocean Day on 8 June. Danielle Stanley, a British-South African national, took over her new post with OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort in March. She and her colleagues will implement a wide-ranging variety of conservation initiatives that guests can join. They include coral planting, whale shark and manta excursions, marine-themed documentaries, arts and crafts sessions and a school educational visit There is also marine wildlife database and research activities. OUTRIGGER guests help compile encounter sheets on the resort's excursions to see manta rays and assorted sharks in the waters. Sightings of whale, reef, nurse and silver tip sharks are quite common. There will be kids art activities, while Friday nights have marine documentary screenings. Danielle is also an acclaimed underwater photographer and was shortlisted in the Environmental Photographer of the Year Awards 2022. Regarding World Ocean Month, she said: "I am looking forward to raising awareness of healthy marine wildlife and ecosystems for our guests, hosts and local communities.” The 81-villa OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort is a 25-minute seaplane journey from Male. It features four restaurants, bars and cafes, a spa, library lounge, boutique and a fully equipped PADI and SSI accredited dive centre.

 

The premier beach resort brand is the first in Fiji and Hawaii to earn Green Seal accreditation

  Premier beach resort brand OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels has successfully achieved Green Seal certification for key properties in Fiji and Hawaii.   OUTRIGGER is first in the State of Hawaii to earn the prestigious Green Seal designation as well as the first hospitality brand to achieve certification outside of the United States.   Green Seal is a global non-profit whose certification mark is a universal symbol that a product, cleaning service or facility meets the highest benchmark of health and environmental leadership. OUTRIGGER’s owned/managed properties that are now Green Seal certified include:  

• OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort
• OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach Resort
• OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel
• OHANA Waikiki East by Outrigger
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk
• OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa
• OUTRIGGER Fiji Beach Resort
• Castaway Island, Fiji Resort

  The certified OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels demonstrated that they:  

• Conserve energy with 100% energy-efficient lighting in all guestrooms and public areas and energy-efficient appliances and windows.
• Conserve water through water-efficient landscaping, grounds-keeping measures and water-saving fixtures in guestrooms and public areas.
• Reduce waste by minimising use of disposable food service items and seeking out reusable packaging and shipping pallets.
• Protect human health and the environment by using housekeeping products that are free of toxic chemicals and low VOC (volatile organic compounds).
• Are committed to stewardship by having an environmental mission and purchasing policy.

  Green Seal certification is unique in its focus, not just on environmental protection, but also on health and indoor air quality. Achieving certification validated that OUTRIGGER properties create a wellness environment where guests and hosts can stay safe from allergy and asthma triggers and reduce their exposure to toxic chemicals.   Also this Earth Day, 22 April, Green Seal released its 2023 Impact Report, which included a spotlight on OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels’ commitment to culture and conservation.   “It’s clear that Green Seal offers a powerful model for collective impact, and even more clear that we have an obligation to apply it in bold new ways,” said Doug Gatlin, CEO of Green Seal. “Green Seal is meeting the moment with ambitious initiatives to address some of the most intractable health and environmental problems of our time.”   “OUTRIGGER is proud to be the first in the State of Hawaii to earn the prestigious Green Seal sustainability certification for its properties, and the first hospitality brand to pursue the certification outside of the United States in Fiji and Mauritius,” said Monica Salter VP, Global Communications & Social Responsibility at OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels. “The Green Seal designation is part of OUTRIGGER’s larger ESG plan and further solidifies our allegiance to meeting the highest standards of protecting the health and environment for its guests and hosts.”   OUTRIGGER is a pioneer for the environment. In 2014; it was the first Hawaii hospitality company to champion reef-safe sunscreen for its guests as a hands-on way to help our oceans thrive and to date, has preserved, protected and planted more than 100 football fields of coral reef fronting its global resorts through its conservation initiative OUTRIGGER Zone (OZONE).   In the last six months, OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels was a founding member for the launch of American Hotel & Lodging Association’s Responsible Stay and Global Hotel Alliance’s new Green Collection. The company introduced the OUTRIGGERCARES Volunteer Programme to foster meaningful and purposeful community engagement opportunities for its hosts.   Celebrating its 75th Anniversary this year, OUTRIGGER is implementing science-based criteria that raise the bar on sustainability; it is committed to growing the barefoot-luxury brand and investing in its people and the planet along the way.

 

Service by the resort’s hosts, a successful recent refurbishment and a stunningly beautiful setting have wowed guests and judges alike

  Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort has been selected by Luxury Lifestyle Awards as one of the Top 100 Hotels and Resorts of the World 2022. The judges also named the property’s General Manager, Mr John Allanson, as one of the world’s “Top 100 General Managers for 2022.”   Since acquiring and opening the resort in April 2022, Mr Allanson has led the luxurious 81-key all-villa property to a 5.0 “Excellent” rating on TripAdvisor based on more than 600 reviews.   The awards recognise an elite group of companies and leaders that represent the ‘best of the best’ as selected and assessed by industry sources, based on reputation, credibility, brand awareness, luxury experience and service excellence.   The organising committee said of the awards: “Your impeccable reputation and professional performance have been recognised and acknowledged.”   A TripAdvisor review of the resort in December 2022 is indicative: “Everyone – the wait staff, management, concierges, hosts, chefs, kitchen geniuses, grounds keepers, gardeners, water activity experts, spa therapists, security, and the excellent housekeeping team – blew us away. No business is a perfectly well-oiled machine and there are always issues that can be improved, but this one definitely does their absolute best to make guests believe that there are no imperfections.”   Outrigger Maldives General Manager, Mr John Allanson, said: “We are grateful to the judges at Luxury Lifestyle Awards and to all guests who went out of their way to leave a positive review. On behalf of all the dedicated and hard-working hosts at the resort, we appreciate it very much.”   Offering small-island charm with contemporary architecture and bespoke finishing touches, Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort offers guests an idyllic island experience, epitomising all that one thinks of when dreaming of the Maldives. The property is a convenient 25-minute seaplane journey from Male.   Travellers looking for one of the world’s definitive tropical beach escapes can take advantage of the latest best offers to stay at Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort at www.Outrigger.com.