UNDER-THE-SEA HOTEL EXPERIENCE TO DEBUT AT CONRAD MALDIVES

‘Sea’ the Maldives from an entirely new perspective…

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island has announced the submersion of what is believed to be the world’s first undersea residence, which will be completed in the fourth quarter of 2018.

The result of a significant $15 million USD investment will transform the Maldives experience for travelers who want to be truly immersed within the natural beauty of the Indian Ocean.

As the first international hotel brand to enter the Maldivian market 20 years ago and home to the world’s first undersea restaurant, Ithaa, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island continues to pioneer and innovate with the groundbreaking introduction of the undersea residence.

Aptly named THE MURAKA or coral in Dhivehi, the local language of the Maldives, the undersea residence gives guests an intimate and immersive experience of one of the Earth’s most breathtaking marine environments. Muraka is designed to blend into its environment, giving guests’ unparalleled views of the Indian Ocean at every turn. With vibrant colors and a diverse array of marine life all around, Muraka’s residents will be able to sleep alongside the wonders of the abundant and colorful marine life that inhabit the sea.

“Driven by our inspiration to deliver innovative and transformative experiences to our global travelers, the world’s first undersea residence encourages guests to explore the Maldives from an entirely new perspective below the surface of the sea,” said Ahmed Saleem, a Director at Crown Company and chief architect and designer of the undersea residence.

“THE MURAKA marks our second venture in underwater architecture and technology, next to Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, which is celebrating its 13th anniversary this month. Through our rich history of being a trailblazer in innovative luxury hospitality, we are proud to remain at the forefront of cutting-edge design, technology and architecture.”

The undersea residence is a two-level structure comprised of space above the sea level and an undersea suite designed for sleeping under the ocean’s surface. The undersea suite features a king size bedroom, living area, bathroom and spiral staircase that leads to the upper level living room. The undersea bedroom floor level sits five meters (16.4 feet) below sea level, providing uninterrupted views of the surrounding marine environment.

Muraka’s upper level features a twin-size bedroom, bathroom, powder room, gym, butler’s quarters, private security quarters, integrated living room, kitchen, bar and dining, which features a deck that purposely faces the direction of the sunset for optimal viewing pleasure. On the opposite side of the villa sits the relaxation deck that faces the direction of sunrise and is complete with an infinity swimming pool. The upper level also contains an additional king size bedroom and bathroom, which boasts a masterfully appointed ocean-facing bathtub, ideal for soaking in views of the endless horizon. In total, Muraka can accommodate up to nine guests.

“Through our development of the world’s first undersea residence, we continue to shine a light on the Maldives as a luxury destination as well as a cultural and natural wonder for global travelers,” said Stefano Ruzza, General Manager at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. “We are excited to present Muraka’s unique sleeping under the sea experience to our future guests, providing them with an extraordinary seascape of the Maldives from an entirely new perspective.”

Located in the Maldives’ best diving and snorkeling spots, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island has created a space that invites and inspires with a distinctive design that flows harmoniously with the natural environment. The resort features purposefully designed villas and suites, 12 award-winning restaurants and bars, two spas and a selection of culturally inspired experiences set against the awe-inspiring Maldivian surroundings. With the introduction of the world’s first undersea residence, Conrad Maldives continues to evolve the diversity of experiences offered to guests.

For more information and for reservations, please visit www.conradmaldives.com

 

CARLSON REZIDOR TO ENTER MALDIVES WITH WELLNESS RESORT IN 2019

Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group is set to enter the Maldives for the first time, after signing a management contract for a spa resort on the southern part of the Alifu Dhaalu Atoll.

The resort is situated 105 kilometers from Male International Airport, accessible within a 30-minute seaplane journey or by a domestic flight from the Maamigili Airport, followed by a 15-minute speedboat ride to the resort.

Rezidor will operate the property on behalf of owner Chang Hua Holdings under the Radisson Blu brand.

The 128-villa Radisson Blu Resort Maldives will be designed as a family-friendly resort with a focus on wellness.

While exact details are yet to be confirmed, the resort will be set amidst some of the most amazing coral reefs, house a large spa and a yoga pavilion, as well as a sea sports and dive centre.

“We continue our growth trajectory in Asia Pacific,” said Thomas Hagemann, Carlson’s vice president of future openings in Asia Pacific. “We’re pleased to expand our footprint into the Maldives, with an iconic Radisson Blu resort.”

Carlson Rezidor’s Asia Pacific portfolio consists of 117 hotels, including 51 Radisson Blu hotels.

The company has 78 more hotels in the pipeline for Asia Pacific. For more information visit: www.carlsonrezidor.com.