Four Seasons Resorts Maldives Lead the Way in Marine Conserv

Four Seasons Resorts Maldives Lead the Way in Marine Conservation

By Hariharan U

Published on January 19, 2026

In the Maldives, the ocean is more than a backdrop; it is a living force shaped by ancient migratory paths, thriving coral reefs and extraordinary biodiversity. At Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru and Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, this reverence for the sea has guided a long-standing commitment to marine conservation, one that began well before sustainability became a global priority. Today, the resorts operate among the most comprehensive and future-focused marine conservation programmes in the Indian Ocean.

At the centre of these efforts is the Marine Discovery Centre (MDC) at Landaa Giraavaru. Established in 2001, the MDC was one of the first on-island research facilities of its kind in the Maldives. It is staffed by a team of 13 full-time marine biologists, supported by interns, apprentices and collaborations with Maldivian government bodies, including the Ministries of Environment, Fisheries and Agriculture. The centre functions as a bridge between science, education and guest engagement, integrating conservation directly into the luxury resort experience.

Guests are invited to participate in coral propagation activities, observe turtle rehabilitation efforts, and attend marine presentations held five evenings a week. These sessions provide insight into the Maldivian archipelago’s rich marine life before guests head out on guided snorkelling excursions alongside marine biologists, transforming observation into meaningful understanding.

Four Seasons Resorts Maldives has also played a pioneering role in reef restoration. The Reefscapers programme, launched in 2001, was the country’s first large-scale coral propagation initiative. To date, more than 9,000 reef structures have been transplanted, contributing significantly to reef resilience while allowing guests to actively take part in rebuilding coral ecosystems within the resort lagoons.

Another cornerstone initiative is the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, opened in 2010 as the Maldives’ first facility dedicated to injured sea turtles. Nearly 500 turtles have been treated here, with more than 280 successfully released back into the wild. Complementary monitoring and photo-identification programmes further enhance research, often involving guests in data collection and conservation awareness.

The Fish Lab extends conservation beyond reefs and turtles by breeding ornamental fish with the long-term goal of supporting sustainable alternative livelihoods for local communities, linking marine protection with socio-economic responsibility.

Among the most globally recognised initiatives is the Maldives Manta Conservation Programme (MMCP). Founded in 2005 by Senior Marine Biologist Guy Stevens, with support from Four Seasons and Save Our Seas, MMCP has grown into one of the world’s most important manta ray research projects and is the founding initiative of the internationally respected Manta Trust.

Over two decades, MMCP has identified nearly 6,000 individual reef manta rays from more than 90,000 photo-identification sightings, making it the largest known manta population study globally. Research spans behavioural patterns, population dynamics, and the impact of environmental conditions and tourism on manta movements across the archipelago.

In the UNESCO-protected Baa Atoll, MMCP scientists are also decoding the environmental conditions that trigger plankton blooms in Hanifaru Bay—knowledge that enables more accurate prediction of large-scale manta feeding events. For guests, this research translates into experiences such as Manta On Call, where real-time sightings prompt immediate departures for encounters in open waters.

Innovation further enhances education through the Maldives’ first Hologram Room at Landaa Giraavaru. Hosted at the Marine Discovery Centre, the immersive experience allows guests to virtually swim alongside life-size holographic manta rays, created using real scientific data from the surrounding waters. Complementing this is the Manta Ray App, developed with The Manta Trust, offering a VR-led journey into manta life cycles, behaviours and habitats.

At Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru and Kuda Huraa, marine conservation is not an add-on but a philosophy seamlessly embedded into the guest journey. Visitors arrive drawn by natural beauty and depart with a deeper sense of responsibility, having contributed to the protection of one of the planet’s most remarkable marine ecosystems. In safeguarding the oceans, Four Seasons Resorts Maldives offers not just memorable stays, but a lasting commitment to preserving paradise for generations to come.

TOKYO SKYTREE Brings Cherry Blossom Season to New Heights with “THE Sakura SKYTREE”

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 25, 2026

As Japan gears up for its much-awaited cherry blossom season, Tobu Tower Skytree Co., Ltd. has announced a special spring programme titled “THE Sakura SKYTREE – Going to Meet the Cherry Blossoms Above the Clouds” at TOKYO SKYTREE. The limited-period experience will run from February 26 to April 14, 2026, offering visitors a fresh way to enjoy sakura from 350 metres above ground.

Designed as an alternative to traditional park hanami, the event brings cherry blossom viewing into an urban, elevated setting. Located on the Tembo Deck at Floors 350 and 340, the experience blends sakura-inspired installations with wide, uninterrupted views of Tokyo, allowing visitors to enjoy spring scenery from above the city skyline.

Built around the theme “Sky × Sakura,” the Tembo Deck will be transformed with cherry blossom décor and Japanese-style photo installations. The setting reflects the fleeting beauty of sakura while creating striking visual moments for visitors. With the Tokyo skyline as a backdrop, the space offers a modern interpretation of spring that combines tradition with a sense of scale and spectacle.

For evening visitors, a key attraction will be the seasonal showcase at the SKYTREE ROUND THEATER® on Floor 350. The observatory’s large windows will turn into a panoramic screen for a three-minute visual presentation capturing the delicate and short-lived nature of cherry blossoms. Using 24 projectors and surround sound from 13 speakers, the experience adds a cinematic layer to hanami, bringing together culture, technology, and storytelling.

Adding to the seasonal feel, the SKYTREE CAFE on Floor 350 will launch a limited-edition cherry blossom-themed menu. The offerings will include both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, along with spring-inspired sweets. Highlights include donuts in “Sakura Mochi” and “Sakura Sky Vanilla” flavours, made as 100% plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free options. The menu is designed to be visually appealing and easy to share, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

The spring theme will also extend to the W1SH RIBBON monument on the Tembo Deck, where limited-edition pink ribbons will be available during the event period. Visitors can tie their wishes onto the softly lit pink installation, reflecting themes of renewal and fresh beginnings associated with the season. The monument lighting will also shift to pink to match the overall décor.

On selected evenings, TOKYO SKYTREE itself will light up in special spring illumination called “Sakura SKY (Sakura-Sora).” Inspired by cherry blossoms set against a spring sky, gentle pink beams will represent petals floating in the wind, turning the tower into a seasonal highlight visible across the city.

With immersive décor, visual storytelling, seasonal food, and special lighting, “THE Sakura SKYTREE” positions TOKYO SKYTREE as a standout attraction during spring. By presenting the cherry blossom season from 350 metres above ground, the event offers visitors an experience that feels modern, memorable, and uniquely Tokyo.

Chef Bobby Appointed Sous Chef at TIYA in San Francisco

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 25, 2026

TIYA, a Michelin Guide-recognized restaurant, has announced the appointment of Chef Bobby as its new Sous Chef. The move underlines the restaurant’s continued focus on quality, innovation, and refined modern Indian cuisine in the heart of San Francisco.

In his new role, Chef Bobby will oversee day-to-day kitchen operations at TIYA. His responsibilities include ensuring smooth service, refined plating presentation, well-balanced flavours, and consistent portion control. Through his leadership, the restaurant aims to further strengthen its position as a premium modern Indian dining destination known for creativity, precision, and memorable guest experiences.

Before joining TIYA, Chef Bobby worked as Sous Chef at Madras Group Inc., located at 1177 W El Camino Real, Sunnyvale. There, he supported the Executive Chef in running high-performing kitchen operations. His role included supervising and training culinary teams, maintaining HACCP and ServSafe food safety standards, handling inventory and supplier coordination, and contributing to cost control and menu innovation. His involvement in recipe development and tasting menu execution played a key role in maintaining high dining standards.

Earlier in his career, Chef Bobby gained valuable experience as a Demi Chef de Partie at The Quorum, Two Horizon Center, Golf Course Road, and as a Commi at Hotel Crowne Plaza Mayur Vihar. He began his professional journey at Aamod Resorts, Kandaghat, District Solan, Himachal Pradesh, where he built a strong foundation in kitchen operations and hospitality discipline.

Speaking on his appointment, Chef Bobby said, “Joining TIYA, a Michelin Guide restaurant, as Sous Chef is an exciting milestone in my culinary journey. The brand’s vision of redefining modern Indian cuisine resonates deeply with my passion for innovation and excellence. I look forward to contributing to TIYA’s continued growth and delivering memorable dining experiences to our guests.”

With experience across well-known hospitality brands in both India and the United States, Chef Bobby’s appointment marks a meaningful step forward for TIYA as it continues to raise the bar for modern Indian fine dining in San Francisco.

Unwind in the Sacred Spirit of Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport

By Hariharan U

Published on February 24, 2026

As the holy month of Ramadan begins, Novotel Cairo Airport welcomes guests to experience the season in an atmosphere defined by serenity, reflection, and heartfelt hospitality. Designed for both Cairo residents seeking a peaceful retreat within the city and travellers exploring Egypt’s capital, the hotel offers a setting where the spirit of togetherness takes centre stage.

Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport focuses on creating meaningful moments. Guests can slow down, reconnect, and embrace the traditions of the holy month while enjoying a comfortable and relaxing stay. The property’s dining venues present thoughtfully curated Iftar and Sohour experiences, blending traditional Ramadan flavours with contemporary touches. Each meal is crafted to bring families, friends, couples, and colleagues together around the table in celebration.

For corporate guests, the hotel provides fully equipped banquet rooms and dedicated facilities suited for Iftars, Sohour gatherings, and Ramadan celebrations. The spaces are designed to encourage connection and appreciation, offering organisations a welcoming environment to host teams and partners during the blessed month.

A highlight of the season is the exclusive Ramadan dessert display, available throughout the day. Guests can indulge in a carefully selected assortment of oriental pastries, featuring both classic favourites and delicately crafted treats that reflect the flavours of Ramadan. Whether enjoyed on-site or taken home to share, the sweet offerings add a festive touch to the experience.

More than a destination to stay or dine, Novotel Cairo Airport positions itself as a place where Cairo’s Ramadan evenings come alive with warmth and community spirit. It is a space to unwind after a long day of fasting, reflect on the blessings of the season, and create lasting memories.

Part of the global Accor portfolio, Novotel operates over 590 hotels across more than 65 countries and participates in the ALL – Accor Live Limitless lifestyle loyalty programme, offering members access to rewards and exclusive experiences worldwide.

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