VARU By Atmosphere: Setting New Standards in Sustainable Luxury Travel

VARU By Atmosphere: Setting New Standards in Sustainable Luxury Travel

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on April 26, 2024

In the heart of the Maldives, nestled in the North-West edge of Malé Atoll, lies VARU by Atmosphere, a 5-star resort that epitomizes luxury and sustainability. Recently, VARU achieved the prestigious Green Globe Recertification, underscoring its commitment to sustainable resort operations.

Led by Mei P Pun, the General Manager, VARU embodies the ethos of 'Joy of Giving' with a strong emphasis on sustainability. Mei believes in genuine, impactful changes that enhance guest experiences while respecting the local environment and community. One notable initiative is the development of a coral garden, aimed at biodiversity conservation.

Atmosphere Core, the managing company behind VARU, integrates sustainability into its long-term business growth strategy. Through the CORE Impact approach, focusing on Communities, Operations, Resources, and Environment, VARU ensures that every aspect of its operations aligns with environmental conservation goals.

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From energy-efficient LED lighting to a water bottling plant that eliminates the use of over 100,000 plastic bottles annually, VARU's initiatives set new benchmarks in eco-friendly hospitality. Guests are encouraged to participate in conservation efforts, such as the Towel and Linen Reuse Program, while the resort prioritizes centralized sourcing, favoring local supplies and engaging in reef and island cleaning activities.

Beyond environmental initiatives, VARU is deeply committed to community welfare. The resort's 'Give Back Day' program and collaboration with local orphanages and communities reflect its genuine desire to make meaningful contributions.

As VARU continues to lead the way in sustainable luxury travel, it not only sets a new standard for eco-conscious resorts but also demonstrates that responsible tourism can go hand in hand with exceptional guest experiences. With VARU, guests can indulge in luxury while knowing they are contributing to a brighter, more sustainable future for the Maldives and beyond.


Swim with Giants: Four Seasons Maldives Unveils 2025 Manta Hot Dates

Swim with Giants: Four Seasons Maldives Unveils 2025 Manta Hot Dates

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 18, 2025

What do the moon and manta rays have in common? They both play a crucial role in one of the ocean’s most breathtaking natural spectacles—the mass gathering of manta rays in Baa Atoll’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Thanks to the groundbreaking research of the Maldives Manta Conservation Programme, based at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, travelers now have a scientifically backed chance to witness these gentle giants in action. The team has combined two decades of manta tracking, moon phase analysis, and tidal movements to predict the Manta Hot Dates for 2025—the optimal times when these marine marvels are expected to congregate in vast numbers.

2025 Manta Hot Dates

  • May 10 – 14 | May 25 – 29
  • June 9 – 13 | June 23 – 27
  • July 8 – 12 | July 22 – 26
  • August 7 – 11 | August 21 – 25
  • September 5 – 9 | September 19 – 23
  • October 5 – 9 | October 19 – 23
  • November 3 – 7 | November 18

A Front-Row Seat to the Ocean’s Grand Performance

With over 4,477 manta sightings recorded in 2024—alongside 26 whale sharks and nine devil rays—the waters around Landaa Giraavaru offer an unparalleled marine adventure. Guests visiting during the Manta Hot Dates can join the exclusive Manta Watch experience, which includes:

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Manta-on-Call speedboat safari – Get alerted via a personal phone the moment mantas are sighted nearby.
Dolphin cruise – Witness playful dolphins leaping across the Indian Ocean.
Coral frame propagation – Contribute to marine conservation by helping restore coral reefs.
Round-trip shared seaplane transfers from Velana International Airport.
Daily breakfast at Café Landaa or Blu Restaurant.

For those who prefer spontaneity, the resort’s Manta-on-Call program offers a real-time adventure—guests receive a direct call the moment manta rays are spotted, allowing them to rush to a speedboat and snorkel with these oceanic giants on their terms.

More Than a Spectacle—A Conservation Mission

Since its inception in 2005, the Maldives Manta Conservation Programme has played a vital role in protecting manta rays worldwide. Project Manager Elspeth Strike explains,

“Seeing a guest’s face light up as they spot a manta for the first time is unforgettable. At Landaa Giraavaru, we combine conservation with education—offering managed experiences that allow people to connect with these incredible creatures while helping ensure their future.”

Manta sightings are seasonal and subject to weather conditions and the moods of these gentle giants.

To book your Manta Watch adventure at Four Seasons Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, click here, email reservations.mal@fourseasons.com, or call +960 66 00 888.


Business Travel Show Asia Pacific to Launch in Singapore This April

Business Travel Show Asia Pacific to Launch in Singapore This April

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 16, 2025

The Business Travel Show Asia Pacific is set to make its debut in Singapore on April 16-17, 2025, at Marina Bay Sands, uniting over 200 corporate travel buyers from across Asia Pacific, the US, the UK, and Europe with 50+ top-tier exhibitors from the global travel industry. Backed by BTN Group’s 30 years of expertise in corporate travel events, this launch marks a significant milestone for the region’s booming business travel sector.

A World-Class Corporate Travel Event

The Asia Pacific region is the world’s fastest-growing corporate travel market, with spending projected to hit $900 billion this year. Business Travel Show APAC is more than just a trade show—it’s a critical platform for industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and stay ahead in an evolving landscape.

Exhibitors include some of the most influential names in the travel industry, such as Oneworld, Wings, Wego, Amex GBT, BCD, Amex Card, Emburse, and more. The event promises meaningful business meetings, knowledge-sharing sessions, and exclusive networking opportunities for buyers and suppliers alike.

Exclusive Hosted Buyer Programme

Senior corporate travel decision-makers can apply for the hosted buyer programme, which includes:

  • Complimentary travel and accommodation
  • Curated one-on-one meetings with key suppliers
  • VIP access to event sessions and networking lounges

Corporate travel managers and procurement professionals handling business travel programmes are encouraged to register early to secure their spot.

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Expert Panels & Cutting-Edge Industry Insights

Spanning two days, the event features 16 free-to-attend sessions covering:

  • Sustainability in corporate travel
  • Enhancing traveller experience
  • Innovative travel technology
  • Supplier sourcing strategies
  • Cost-cutting and resilience in travel programmes

Speakers from Avis Budget Group, MSD International, IKEA, Rheinmetall, Crisis24, HN Consulting, and Align Tech will share their expertise.

Business Travel Innovation Faceoff & APAC Travel Buyer of the Year Award

For the first time in APAC, the Business Travel Innovation Faceoff will showcase game-changing solutions set to redefine corporate travel. Additionally, the APAC Travel Buyer of the Year Award will honor a regional leader in corporate travel innovation.


CGH Earth Saha Unveils Coorg Wild Walk – A Wilderness Retreat at Nagarhole

CGH Earth Saha Unveils Coorg Wild Walk – A Wilderness Retreat at Nagarhole

By Author

Published on March 10, 2025

CGH Earth Saha has launched its ninth villa, Coorg Wild Walk, adjacent to Nagarhole National Park in Karnataka. Nestled within a lush coffee estate near Kutta’s Nanachi Gate, this secluded four-bedroom villa offers travelers an intimate and immersive experience in one of India’s most pristine wildlife reserves, home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and a thriving bird population.

Designed as a peaceful retreat, the villa blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Expansive picture windows frame uninterrupted views of the coffee plantation and forest, while the semi-open lounge and dining areas allow guests to stay connected to nature. Infused with Kodava craftsmanship, the interiors add a touch of local charm to the space. Guests can book individual rooms or reserve the entire villa for a private escape.

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The experience at Coorg Wild Walk extends beyond the villa. Guided nature walks, birdwatching excursions, and safaris in Nagarhole offer thrilling encounters with wildlife. The on-site culinary offerings celebrate the flavors of Kodagu and Karnataka, with locally sourced ingredients shaping an authentic dining experience.

"We are thrilled to welcome guests to Coorg Wild Walk. Nestled within a coffee plantation and just minutes from the Nanachi Gate of Nagarhole National Park, this retreat offers an unmatched connection with nature. Whether it's waking up to bird calls, sipping estate-grown coffee on the verandah, or embarking on curated wildlife experiences, the thrill of the forest is ever-present," said George Joseph, Vice President, Operations – CGH Earth.

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With a strong focus on sustainability and cultural authenticity, CGH Earth Saha continues its legacy of crafting meaningful travel experiences. Coorg Wild Walk promises a unique blend of adventure and serenity, making it an ideal getaway for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts.

More details at CGH Earth Saha

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