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Maldives: Atmosphere Core Announces New Resort for 2027

October 18, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Atmosphere Core annonce un nouveau resort aux Maldives pour mars 2027 - Photo : Atmosphere Core

CroisiEurope

Atmosphere Core continues its expansion in the Maldives with the announced opening of ONE BANYAN Amaraa Faru, slated for March 2027.

Nestled in Kaafu Atoll, the resort will be reachable in about 45 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport.

The property will be the first resort of the ONE BANYAN collection, a new line of island addresses co-branded by Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts.

It will incorporate the sub-brand “An Atmosphere Hotel“, with a positioning focused on personalized experiences and a less formal approach to luxury.

ONE BANYAN: 118 Beach and Overwater Villas, 100 to 164 m²

ONE BANYAN Amaraa Faru will offer 118 beach and over-water villas, ranging from 100 to 164 m², each equipped with a private pool.

The offering will also include an all-day restaurant, a pool bar and three specialty restaurants, including an Argentine cuisine venue and a Japanese restaurant on stilts.

The resort will further feature a kids’ club, a fitness center with ocean views, a dive and watersports center, as well as a shopping arcade.

A lire : Borgo Monchiero : Atmosphere Core signe son entrée en Europe

On the wellness side, an ELE|NA Ayur spa will offer over-water treatment rooms, a saline swimming pool, a sauna and a hammam.

The project also envisions several sustainability measures, including solar energy solutions, water conservation systems and a zero-plastic approach, with bottled water provided in glass containers produced on-site.

With this opening, Atmosphere Core will bring the number of resorts in the archipelago to 10. The group currently operates nine properties in the Maldives and says it is pursuing international expansion, with projects in Europe and in South Asia.

A lire : Maldives: l’Office de Tourisme cherche à renforcer la notoriété de la destination en France

Publié par Amelia Brille Rédactrice TourMaG.com
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“It’s Absurd, Unreal”: Tour Operators Rally Against Maldives’ 17% Tax [ABO]

October 16, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

"C'est aberrant, irréel" : les voyagistes vent debout contre la taxe de 17 % aux Maldives - Depositphotos.com wirestock_creators

CroisiEurope

It’s another dossier for SETO, EDV and ECTAA that has come to the forefront in August.

The Maldivian government announced last month an expansion of the Tourism Goods and Services Tax (TGST) to foreign travel operators.

The Maldivian tax administration, the Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA), has indeed drafted a new measure that has provoked a global uproar among tour operators worldwide.

It provides for taxing at 17% the producers, agencies, OTAs or other foreign companies that assemble accommodation, transfers and other land-based services.

However, the TGST will not be levied on the entire price of the stay. The taxable base roughly corresponds to what remains for the tour operator after deducting the amounts paid to Maldivian suppliers. In other words, the tax effectively targets the margin that professionals make on the package.

It’s Completely Unreal, It Makes No Sense

A move that set off a wave of indignation among tour operators and travel operators alike.

“They are asking us to fold into our prices a tax equal to 17% of the margin earned on the land-based services sold to the Maldives for a given file. In other words, it’s incomprehensible, because we don’t know our margins before selling. Moreover, our margins do not apply only to the land portion, but also to the air component,” explains Patrice Caradec, president of SETO, a touch irate.

“It’s absurd, continues Hélion de Villeneuve, chief executive of Austral Lagons. They could have raised entry fees, the e-visa, or the local taxes on hotels and services. That would have been passed on to us automatically, and it would have been much simpler. If they need money, we can understand that.

But now they’re asking us to register on a site, to declare the margins we make on the destination and, on those margins, they will take 17%. This is utterly unreal, it makes no sense.”

SETO, EDV and ECTAA Have Written to Maldivian Tax Authorities

SETO, along with the Voyage Companies (Entreprise du Voyage) and ECTAA, thus penned a letter to the Maldivian authorities, and to the tax services handling this file. A letter that essentially went unanswered.

« We explained to them that their regulation is unintelligible and cannot be implemented in these terms. This cannot be done overnight.

We asked for a meeting to try to imagine an alternative arrangement.» details Patrice Caradec, who adds: « It’s utterly crazy: they’re asking us to provide the purchase prices of hotels and the selling prices of hotels. But we don’t sell hotels; we sell packages. We could pretend we don’t margin on hotels, only on the flight ticket. That would be ridiculous. »

Tour operators and Maldivian producers must therefore register on an online platform before September 30, something that French tour operators as a whole have rejected, according to Patrice Caradec.

« We asked our members what their position was and who intended to register on the platform. It is clear that, across Europe, not a single operator is registering. » specifies the SETO president.

The Protest Extends Beyond European Tour Operators

Activated on the dossier since the end of August, ECTAA continues to press the Maldivian finance and tourism ministers to demand an urgent postponement of the October 1 deadline.

The association laments a deficient preparation by local authorities, unable to provide clear answers to industry questions.

For Eric Drésin, secretary-general of ECTAA: “Faced with a tax reform of such complexity imposed within untenable deadlines, we are maintaining pressure on the Maldivian authorities, while ensuring active coordination with our members and the WTAAA international association.

All tour operators and distributors working with the Maldives denounce an undue administrative burden and clear risks of double taxation. We could not be clearer.”

Indeed, the challenge is not confined to French tour operators. In India, for instance, the Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI) has also urged the Maldivian government to review and withdraw this provision, according to Travel Trade Journal.

In Germany, the Deutscher Reiseverband (DRV) is calling for a postponement of the measure. The organization notes that the legal basis was adopted only on August 31, with an effective date planned for October 1, even though operators market and price their programs several months in advance.

In the United Kingdom, the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) has also stepped forward. The professional association has written directly to the president of the Maldives to request at least a six-month postponement of the application of the new tax, in order to allow for genuine consultation.

French Bee Expands Flights to New York and Launches Maldives and Sri Lanka Routes

September 30, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

French Bee renforce ses vols vers New York et lance les Maldives et le Sri Lanka pour l'hiver - Photo French Bee

CroisiEurope

French Bee unveiled its winter 2026 – 2027 program.

The airline strengthens its frequencies on several of its flagship destinations and broadens its Indian Ocean offering with the launch of new routes to Malé, in the Maldives, and Colombo, in Sri Lanka, starting December 19, 2026.

Thus for the period from October 24, 2026 to March 27, 2027, French bee will offer from Paris Orly:

– Réunion (RUN): up to 14 flights per week

– New York – Newark (EWR): up to 7 flights per week, i.e., +5,000 seats compared to last winter

– Miami (MIA): up to 3 flights per week

– Montréal (YUL): up to 4 flights per week

– San Francisco (SFO): up to 3 flights per week

– Papeete (PPT): up to 3 flights per week

The Maldives and Sri Lanka as new destinations

French bee also continues to expand its network in the Indian Ocean with the launch of new links to the Maldives and Sri Lanka starting December 19, 2026:

– Malé (MLE): up to 2 flights per week from December 19, 2026 to March 27, 2027

– Colombo (CMB): up to 3 flights per week from December 19, 2026 to March 27, 2027, with a service extension until May 1, 2027

The airline will offer this seasonal route from Paris-Orly with two stopovers, in Malé (Maldives) and Colombo (Sri Lanka) on the return.

Stopovers will be possible in Sri Lanka for travelers wishing to combine the two destinations.

Marc-Antoine Blondeau, Chief Executive Officer of French bee, states: « This new program illustrates our intent to pursue measured growth, strengthening the destinations that shape our network while opening new opportunities for our customers. The arrival of the Maldives and Sri Lanka marks a new step in French bee’s development and complements an offering already largely oriented toward major international tourist markets. »

Forget the Maldives: The 10 Best Islands to Visit in 2026

July 25, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Wanderlust is evolving and travelers are increasingly turning to less crowded destinations. This is highlighted by Expedia’s new ranking, which lists the islands most likely to attract visitors in 2026.

Between Arctic beaches, little-known Greek treasures and tropical lagoons, this selection highlights places where spectacular landscapes, authenticity and sometimes more affordable prices replace the emblematic destinations, such as the Maldives.

Preserved Islands Attracting Increasing Numbers of Travelers

Expedia unveiled its “Island Hot List 2026”, a ranking based on searches conducted on its platform. According to the online travel agency, searches related to islands rose by 55% year over year, while mentions on social media increased by 20%. At the top of the list is Saint Lucia, in the Caribbean, recommended for couples’ getaways. The island entices with its famous volcanic Pitons, white- and black-sand beaches, and geothermal sites, such as the Sulphur Springs of Soufrière.

The island of Porto Santo, Portugal, is presented as an ideal wellness destination thanks to its 9-kilometer golden-sand beach and its much calmer atmosphere compared to the neighboring island of Madeira. Hiking enthusiasts can notably take the Pico Branco or Pico do Castelo trails.

Nature lovers will find happiness on Praslin in the Seychelles. As the second-largest island in the archipelago, it hosts the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A traveler shares her experience on Google Reviews: “Visiting Vallée de Mai on Praslin felt like entering a prehistoric paradise. Wandering through this ancient palm forest was an unforgettable experience, with towering trees, lush vegetation and peaceful nature all around.”

Alternatives to the Most Famous Destinations

Among the surprises in the ranking is Syros, Greece. Located in the heart of the Aegean Sea, the island is presented as a calmer alternative to Santorini or Mykonos, while offering a renowned culinary scene. It is also known for hosting nearly 3,000 stray cats, to the point of sometimes offering free accommodation to volunteers who come to care for them.

The Lofoten Islands, in Norway, illustrate another trend: Arctic destinations. Visitors can witness the midnight sun in summer or the northern lights between September and April. The archipelago also hosts the isolated Kvalvika Beach, accessible only after a hike, where golden sand contrasts with turquoise waters and jagged mountains.

One of the best value-for-money vacation options

In Asia, Palawan in the Philippines continues to rise thanks to its limestone cliffs and preserved beaches, notably Entalula Beach, accessible only by boat. Phu Quoc in Vietnam appeals to travelers seeking a high-end stay at a reasonable price, while Culebra, in Puerto Rico, attracts divers and snorkelers around its famous Flamenco Beach.

The rankings are completed by Sanibel Island, Florida, loved by families for its peaceful beaches, and by the Fiji Islands, which are gaining strong visibility on social media. For Melanie Fish, a travel expert and Expedia spokesperson, the islands offer today an excellent value for money: “Islands not only fulfill the urge to escape; they can also represent one of the best value-for-money vacation options, thanks to all-inclusive resorts and savings from bundled Expedia deals,” she concludes.

Win Gift Vouchers with Cora Cora Maldives

July 11, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Clarifying translation guidelines

I see that the instruction says not to translate the tags or their content. This means I should keep the tags intact, including their alt attributes. However, the text inside the alt/title attributes is in French, and that shouldn’t be translated either. The other text in the article, which isn’t inside , should be translated into English. I’ll also look out for any
tags and ensure the content flows nicely.Translating content accurately

I need to translate the given text accurately. It says, "The luxury property Cora Cora Maldives launches a sales challenge for travel agents, valid with all tour operators." I’ll make sure to convey the original meaning while keeping the context clear. It sounds straightforward, but I’ll double-check that everything fits well in the overall content once I piece it together with the rest of the translation.Translating promotional details

I need to translate this section accurately. The first part states, "For any booking made before July 31, 2024, and for any stay until December 20, 2024, agents can win gift vouchers." Then I have a list of offers: €100 for stays of 6 nights or more, €120 for 8 nights, and €200 for 14 nights or more. Next, it says, "Sales statements must be submitted to Anne Daviaud or Sophia Bicher by email at the following address:" and then I’ll include the email.Translating resort details

I’m translating, starting with, "The gift vouchers will be handed out the month following the clients’ stay." Then there’s a heading, "About Cora Cora Maldives." The next paragraph describes the resort: "Cora Cora Maldives is a resort located on the private island of Maamigili, in the Raa Atoll." It mentions that it’s accessible by a 45-minute seaplane flight from Malé International Airport and features luxurious villas, including beachfront and overwater bungalows, all with private pools and Indian Ocean views.Translating comprehensive details

I’m looking at the content that needs translating. It begins with details about the resort being accessible via a 45-minute seaplane flight. The resort has luxurious villas with private pools offering Indian Ocean views. It operates on an all-inclusive basis with international dining options, water activities, and excursions. Guests can indulge in varied cuisines, and the spa offers wellness treatments inspired by global traditions. Activities cater to all ages. I also need to translate the author block while ensuring that tags remain intact and original URLs stay the same.

MGallery Collection Opens Its First Property in the Maldives

June 9, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Ouverture du V Villas Maldives at Mirihi – MGallery Collection - Photo : MGallery Collection

Dream Yacht

MGallery Collection continues to expand its presence in the upscale hotel sector with the opening of the V Villas Maldives at Mirihi – MGallery Collection, its first property in the Maldives.

Located on Mirihi Island, in the southern Ari Atoll, this new resort aims to deliver an immersive experience inspired by Maldivian heritage and the local lifestyle.

The property is accessible after roughly 30 minutes by seaplane from Male. It comprises 42 ocean-view villas, spread along the coastline and the interior of the island. Each accommodation benefits from a dedicated butler service designed to offer guests a personalized experience.

Designed by the studio Studio Gronda, the complex draws from the marine environment and Maldivian craftsmanship. Natural materials, mineral tones, and decorative elements crafted by local artisans occupy a central place in the layout.

Among the accommodations on offer, the Mirihi Maa signature suite notably features a private pool and direct access to the lagoon.

Maldives: Culinary and Wellness Offerings

The culinary offering revolves around several dining spaces. The Dhonvelli restaurant, open all day, showcases cuisine that highlights local products and freshly caught fish.

The on‑stilts Muraka restaurant focuses on marine specialties. Among its signature dishes is a Maldives lobster prepared with local rum, coconut curry, combava, and palm sugar.

The Akoya Sea Lounge complements this with a selection of cocktails and mocktails served as the sun sets.

On the wellness side, the Mirihi Spa offers a range of treatments inspired by local traditions and the archipelago’s flora. Guests can enjoy massages, sea-salt rituals, guided meditation sessions, and even aerial yoga above the water.

Like all properties in the collection, the resort also features its own “M Moment,” the signature experience of the MGallery Collection. In the Maldives, it takes the form of a private excursion aboard the Mirihi Thari yacht. This outing allows travelers to explore the Ari Atoll and observe local marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, and turtles.

A Commitment to Local Communities

MGallery Collection also highlights a commitment to supporting local populations. As part of its “Committed to Her” program, the resort collaborates with the Mom’s Aid association to contribute to the empowerment of women within the local community.

Reservations are now open. Rates start from 530 euros per night for villas and from 1,800 euros for suites.

Published by Amelia Brille TourMaG.com Editor
See all articles by Amelia Brille

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