SIX & SIX PRIVATE ISLANDS to Launch Six Luxury Resorts in the Maldives Over Six Years

SIX & SIX PRIVATE ISLANDS to Launch Six Luxury Resorts in the Maldives Over Six Years

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 2, 2024

A bold new player in Maldives hospitality, SIX & SIX PRIVATE ISLANDS is set to redefine luxury with the launch of six individually branded resorts over the next six years. Founded by Laith Pharaon, the company will begin its journey with two flagship properties in the South Malé Atoll, opening in 2025 and 2026. Designed to offer bespoke guest experiences, each resort will feature distinct characteristics while maintaining a shared focus on intuitive service, artistic design, and a cosmopolitan lifestyle.

Redefining Guest Experiences

At the core of SIX & SIX’s philosophy is a commitment to personalization that surpasses traditional standards. Guests will enjoy the freedom to curate every aspect of their stay, from dining and wellness programs to unique cultural and nature-based activities. The resorts will employ expert health and wellness professionals, ensuring each visitor's journey is tailored to their preferences and aspirations.

According to Laith Pharaon,

"SIX & SIX, through its service culture and delivery, will elevate the guest journey. We will ensure that guests enjoy the ultimate luxuries: the time, the space, and the freedom to be themselves."

Upcoming Resorts: A Preview

The brand’s first property, RAH GILI MALDIVES, will debut in late 2025. Situated near an exclusive dolphin sanctuary in the South Malé Atoll, the resort promises unforgettable moments with playful marine life. Guests can choose from 74 luxurious pool villas, 38 of which are overwater. With sizes ranging from 120 to 200 square meters, the villas boast private pools, sleek designs, and vibrant social spaces.

Following this, DHON MAAGA MALDIVES, slated for a 2026 opening, will take ultra-luxury to the next level. Offering 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom villas, the property will feature some of the largest accommodations in the Maldives, complete with semi-precious gem bathtubs, zen courtyards, and private jet transfers. The resort’s 31 overwater and 25 beach villas will range from 250 to over 400 square meters, delivering an unparalleled experience of opulence.

A Vision for Sustainability

Beyond luxury, SIX & SIX is deeply committed to sustainability and community engagement. The brand’s ESG initiatives include:

  • Extensive use of solar power
  • Zero-waste policies
  • Reef rehabilitation programs
  • Support for local produce
  • Community development projects

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These measures underline the company’s dedication to preserving the Maldives’ pristine environment while contributing to its local society.

Leadership and Legacy

Under the leadership of Laith Pharaon, a veteran in lifestyle hospitality with a portfolio that includes Soho House and Six Senses Hotels, SIX & SIX aims to bridge innovative concepts with the Maldives’ natural beauty. With nearly 15 years of experience in the region, Marc Gussing, Director of Operations, adds invaluable expertise to the team, ensuring that each resort offers unique, transformative experiences for guests.

As Gussing states,

“Our ambition is to be the go-to resort operator for bon-vivants who demand customisation so that they can create their own, ideal story.”

With SIX & SIX PRIVATE ISLANDS, the Maldives is poised to welcome a new era of luxury that combines personalized hospitality with a profound respect for nature.

For more details, visit SIX & SIX PRIVATE ISLANDS.


Banyan Tree Samui Named Thailand’s Best Spa Resort for 2026

Banyan Tree Samui Named Thailand’s Best Spa Resort for 2026

By Hariharan U

Published on April 2, 2026

In a significant recognition for luxury wellness hospitality, Banyan Tree Samui has been named the “Best Spa Resort – Thailand” at the Global Spa Awards 2026, presented by The Luxury Spa Edit.

The award reflects a combination of expert panel evaluations, insights from global travel journalists and sustainability specialists, and over 85,000 public votes, reinforcing the resort’s strong positioning in the global wellness space.

At the heart of this recognition is the resort’s integrated approach to holistic wellbeing. The spa experience at Banyan Tree Samui goes beyond traditional treatments, offering a thoughtfully curated journey rooted in its “8 Pillars of Wellbeing” philosophy, focusing on rest, nourishment, mindfulness, movement, and personal growth.

A standout feature is its signature hydrotherapy facility, The Rainforest, which takes guests through a multi-sensory circuit of water jets, saunas, steam rooms, ice fountains, and vitality pools. This immersive experience has become a defining element of the resort’s wellness offering.

Speaking on the achievement, Naphasawan Badklang, Spa & Gallery Manager, credited the team’s rigorous training at the Banyan Spa & Wellbeing Academy and their commitment to delivering personalised guest experiences. Each treatment begins with a detailed consultation, followed by customised herbal oils and signature rituals that include sound healing, breathwork, and traditional techniques.

The award also coincides with the rollout of Banyan Tree Spa 2.0, an evolved concept that blends ancient Asian healing practices with modern wellness techniques. From personalised therapies to curated closing rituals featuring herbal foot cleansing and tea ceremonies, the experience is designed to create a deeper sense of relaxation and renewal.

Set against the scenic backdrop of Koh Samui’s Lamai Bay, the resort’s 88 private pool villas further enhance the sense of seclusion and calm. Complemented by curated dining experiences, wellness programmes, and nature-integrated design, the property continues to offer a sanctuary for travellers seeking both luxury and restoration.

With this recognition, Banyan Tree Samui strengthens its reputation as one of Asia’s leading wellness destinations, setting new benchmarks for immersive and experience-driven hospitality.


The Leela Gandhinagar Marks Earth Hour with Sustainability Initiatives

The Leela Gandhinagar Marks Earth Hour with Sustainability Initiatives

By Hariharan U

Published on April 1, 2026

The Leela Gandhinagar marked Earth Hour 2026 with a focused set of sustainability-driven initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to responsible hospitality and environmental stewardship.

As part of the global movement, the hotel switched off non-essential lighting and reduced power consumption across key areas for 60 minutes, from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm. The symbolic gesture reflected a collective effort towards climate awareness while maintaining the refined standards associated with luxury hospitality.

Beyond the hour, the initiative underscored the hotel’s broader sustainability philosophy. From energy-efficient systems to responsible resource management, environmentally conscious practices are integrated into its day-to-day operations, aligning with the evolving expectations of modern travellers.

Speaking on the occasion, Vikas Sood said, “Earth Hour reminds us that meaningful change begins with small yet consistent actions. At The Leela Gandhinagar, sustainability remains integral to how we operate and deliver thoughtful luxury experiences.”

Through its participation, the hotel continues to build on its commitment to sustainable hospitality, contributing to a more responsible and environmentally aware future.


Novotel Jodhpur ITI Circle Marks Three Years of Hospitality and Guest Experiences

Novotel Jodhpur ITI Circle Marks Three Years of Hospitality and Guest Experiences

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 31, 2026

Novotel Jodhpur ITI Circle marked its third anniversary on 28th March, celebrating three years of hospitality, memorable guest experiences, and a growing presence in the city. Over this period, the hotel has welcomed guests from across India and abroad, hosted over 30 distinguished celebrities, and maintained a strong position among top properties on TripAdvisor since its opening.

While these milestones highlight its journey, the hotel places equal importance on the moments it has shared with its guests. Over the years, it has grown into more than just a place to stay, becoming a space where people come together for celebrations, conversations, and memorable experiences. The return of familiar faces and continued guest trust have played a key role in shaping its journey.

A key part of the hotel’s identity is its dining approach. Known for its 100% vegetarian, sattvic cuisine, the hotel focuses on meals that are prepared with care and authenticity, while also keeping well-being in mind. This thoughtful approach has helped create a strong connection with guests who value both taste and mindful dining.

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Speaking on the occasion, Ritesh Mudgal, General Manager, said:

"These three years have been incredibly special for us. Beyond numbers and milestones, it’s the relationships we’ve built and the memories we’ve been part of that truly define our journey. We are deeply grateful to our guests for their continued trust and support."

Looking ahead, Novotel Jodhpur ITI Circle remains focused on growing further while continuing to offer experiences that reflect warmth, comfort, and flavour.

Three years. Countless memories. Infinite flavours.

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