Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives introduces holidaymakers to the rich heritage of the island nation of the Maldives through specially curated guest experiences centered around exploration and learning.
Guests can experience the weekly “Spirit of the Maldives” event every Tuesday, where guests can enjoy a sumptuous buffet dinner featuring traditional favourites. Local Maldivian cuisine is influenced by flavours and spices commonly found in Indian and Arabic cuisine, with a particular emphasis on readily available ingredients such as fresh tuna, chillies and coconut. The evening also features a vibrant cultural performance of dance, song, music and light by the Kandooma Bodu Beru Dance Group. With rhythmic drumming, graceful movements and heartfelt singing, they enchant audiences with their artistry as they tell the island’s history and folklore. Fee is USD 69++ for adults and free for children (under 12 years).
For those wishing to delve deeper into culinary traditions, the Maldives Masterclass is a group cooking class held twice weekly (Tuesdays and Saturdays from 3-4pm). Participants will learn the secrets of flavour and ingredient combinations from the resort’s talented chefs. The experience concludes with a tasting session and recipes to recreate and share with family and friends upon returning home. Classes are limited to eight participants and cost USD 80 per person, adults only.
Find your own rhythm and beat by joining the resort’s Bodu Bell Drumming Class every Saturday morning.
Large drums (traditionally made from coconut wood and covered with goat or manta ray skin) play a powerful, mesmerizing beat that starts off slow and steady and gradually builds in intensity, accompanied by lyric chanting. Everyone is welcome to attend, free of charge.
“Our Cultural Showcase is a fantastic opportunity for our guests to learn about the Maldives during their stay – whether they learn to play the bodu beru, sample local cuisine or enjoy captivating performances, it offers an unforgettable journey into the cultural heart of the island and creates memories that will last a lifetime,” said Mark Ereturu, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives.
“Having an international staff to minimise the language barrier for international tourists makes a big difference to the guest experience and we are proud to be able to do that in our key markets. But what guests notice most is how lovely it is to see Maldivians working at Kandooma sharing their stories and bright smiles. There is a special warmth about our Maldivian team members and when our guests sense that too, it makes me feel warm and comfortable too. It’s very special,” he added.
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is proud to have more than 40% of its workforce comprised of local Maldivians. Supporting the local community and economy, and promoting culture, are key elements of the resort’s sustainability efforts. Mark Ellett says that in doing so, the team aims to ensure guests feel a special connection to the Maldives through the activities and experiences featured, and that they will cherish their stay long after.
Kandooma Maldives exudes an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality, reflecting the pure spirit of the Maldivian people.
Located in South Male Atoll, just a 40-minute boat ride from the airport, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is a beautiful natural paradise. White sand beaches, swaying coconut trees and turquoise waters provide the backdrop for leisure and some of the best scuba diving in the Maldives. Choose from Garden Villas, Beach Villas, 2-storey Beach Houses and the popular Overwater Villas. Perfect for families, the resort offers 2-bed and 3-bed villas and the Kandoo Kids Club with its fun-filled activities programme. Satisfy your healthy appetite and indulge in the flavours of the Maldives at 6 dining options. Sun loungers and hammocks dotted around the island provide a place to relax. Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala offers a tranquil retreat for the body, mind and soul.
