The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort has announced the appointment of Harish Gopalakrishnan as its new General Manager, marking a new chapter for the wellness-focused island resort located within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll.

With more than 20 years of hospitality experience across India and the Middle East, Harish brings extensive expertise in hotel operations, strategic leadership, guest experience, and commercial performance. He joins the resort from The Westin Goa, where he most recently served as General Manager, making this his second leadership role within the Westin brand.

Throughout his career with Marriott International, Harish has held several key leadership positions, including Deputy General Manager at Grosvenor House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Dubai, and Multi-Property General Manager at Courtyard by Marriott Kochi Airport and Port Muziris, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. He is known for his focus on operational excellence, team development, and delivering guest experiences that reflect the unique character of each destination.

In his new role, Harish will oversee the resort's overall strategy, daily operations, and long-term growth. He will work closely with the leadership team to further enhance guest satisfaction, strengthen brand experiences, and drive business performance across the property.

Commenting on his appointment, Harish Gopalakrishnan said:

"I am truly honored to join The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort and to continue my journey with Westin in such an inspiring destination. Having led The Westin Goa, I have developed a deep appreciation for the brand's commitment to empowering guests to move well, eat well, and sleep well, even while traveling."

He added:

"The Maldives offers a naturally restorative setting, and I look forward to working with the team to create thoughtful experiences that help our guests reconnect with themselves, with nature, and with the people who matter most."

Harish's leadership philosophy closely aligns with Westin's wellness-focused approach, emphasising mindful living, active lifestyles, nourishing experiences, and meaningful human connections. His appointment is expected to further strengthen the resort's focus on holistic well-being and immersive island experiences.

Located in the pristine Baa Atoll, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort offers guests a luxury island retreat featuring signature experiences such as the Heavenly Spa by Westin™, WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio, and the brand's renowned Heavenly Bed.

Argentina booked their place in the quarterfinals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after producing a remarkable comeback to defeat Egypt 3-2 in a thrilling Round of 16 clash at Atlanta Stadium.

For nearly 80 minutes, Egypt looked set to pull off one of the biggest upsets of the tournament. Goals from Ibrahim and Mostafa Zico gave the Pharaohs a commanding 2-0 lead, while goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir delivered an outstanding performance, including saving a first-half penalty from Lionel Messi. The save placed him among only three goalkeepers this century to stop two non-shootout penalties in a single FIFA World Cup tournament.

However, the defending champions staged an incredible turnaround in the closing stages of the match. Cristian Romero pulled one back in the 79th minute to spark Argentina's revival.

Just four minutes later, Messi made amends for his earlier penalty miss by capitalising on a defensive error and firing home his trademark left-footed finish to level the score at 2-2, sending the stadium into celebration.

Argentina then completed one of the greatest comebacks in FIFA World Cup history with a late winner to seal a dramatic 3-2 victory, ending Egypt's inspiring campaign and keeping their title defence alive.

J&K Entrepreneurs Create History at FIFA World Cup

Away from the action on the pitch, India also had a reason to celebrate at the FIFA World Cup.

Johnny (Farhan) Beig and Tony Beig, entrepreneurs from Banihal, Jammu & Kashmir, have earned international recognition after playing a significant role in the successful organisation of the tournament.

The brothers, sons of retired DIG Shakeel Beigh, are the founders of Dioz Group, which secured a US$2.5 million contract through FIFA's official hospitality partner to design, manufacture, and distribute uniforms for more than 50,000 personnel across all 16 FIFA World Cup venues in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The uniforms were created for stadium ambassadors, hospitality teams, VIP lounge staff, chefs, waiters, event personnel, and flag bearers who participated in the tournament's opening ceremonies.

Their achievement has received international attention, with the Los Angeles Times featuring the Beig brothers and Dioz Group for their contribution to one of the world's biggest sporting events and highlighting the company's growing presence in Los Angeles.

Founded in 2006, Dioz Group has grown into a global enterprise with operations across the United States, Dubai, India, and several other countries. The company employs more than 150 professionals worldwide and manufactures apparel through production facilities in India, Bangladesh, China, Turkey, and the Philippines.

Before securing the FIFA World Cup project, Dioz Group had already delivered apparel and uniform solutions for major international sporting events, including Super Bowl LIX and the 2024 Copa América.

Commenting on the milestone, Johnny Beig said that being entrusted with a project of this scale at the FIFA World Cup reflects the company's commitment to quality, innovation, and operational excellence.

The successful execution of the project further strengthens Dioz Group's position as a leading global provider of sports apparel and event uniforms while marking a proud achievement for India on the world stage.

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa is inviting families to experience an island getaway designed around togetherness, offering a blend of luxury accommodation, immersive experiences, award-winning dining and wellness in one of the Maldives' most picturesque settings.

Located just a 25-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport, the resort provides easy access for travellers while offering an idyllic escape where guests of all generations can reconnect through shared experiences.

At the heart of the family offering is the Three-Bedroom Kuda Estate, a private beachfront retreat featuring expansive living spaces, a private infinity pool, dedicated butler service and direct beach access. Designed for multi-generational stays, the estate provides families with the comfort and privacy of a home while enjoying the services of a luxury resort.

Dining forms an integral part of the guest experience at Baraabaru, the resort's signature Indian restaurant inspired by the architecture of traditional Kerala theatres. Recognised among the Maldives' leading dining destinations, the restaurant showcases the creations of acclaimed Chef Hari Nayak, featuring regional Indian dishes including Malvani Fish Curry, Mangalorean-style Prawn Sukka, Chicken Malai Kofta, Bharwan Mirchi, and desserts such as Mango Kulfi and Ghewar.

Beyond its culinary experiences, the resort offers families opportunities to engage with the natural environment through its Coral Reef Plantation programme, where guests work alongside marine experts to help restore coral reefs by building and planting coral frames.

Families can also explore the island's vibrant marine life through snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding and surfing, while younger guests can participate in the Junior Marine Savers Programme, which introduces children to marine conservation through interactive learning experiences focused on coral reefs, sea turtles and ocean ecosystems.

Adding to the seasonal experiences is the Learn With Legends Summer Camp, taking place from 20 July to 31 August, where internationally recognised surfers, marine conservationists and martial arts experts conduct interactive sessions for guests of all ages. Families can also extend their holiday to Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, where football clinics and conservation programmes within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve complement the experience.

While younger guests enjoy outdoor adventures, adults can retreat to ŪRJĀ Naturopathy Island, the resort's dedicated wellness sanctuary located across the lagoon. Accessible by a traditional Maldivian dhoni, the wellness centre offers yoga, hydrotherapy, breathwork, nutrition consultations and therapeutic treatments rooted in naturopathy.

Among its signature therapies is the Maldivian Coconut Ritual, which combines locally sourced botanicals and warm coconut oil to deliver a restorative wellness experience inspired by the islands.

By combining spacious accommodation, family-friendly adventures, wellness experiences and exceptional dining, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa continues to position itself as a preferred destination for families seeking meaningful luxury holidays in the Maldives.