Gili Lankanfushi Maldives has announced the launch of Plant to Plate: Vegan Recipes from Gili Lankanfushi Maldives, the debut cookbook from  Executive Chef Harinath Govindaraj. Published by St James's House and launching in  October 2026, the beautifully curated coffee-table book marks Chef Hari's 20th year  at the award-winning resort and celebrates his vibrant approach to plant-based  cuisine. 

Available to purchase via the Gili Lankanfushi Maldives website and on the island,  with pre-orders opening soon, Plant to Plate allows guests and food lovers alike to  recreate a taste of Gili at home. More than a cookbook, it is a reflection of Chef Hari's  philosophy of simple, mindful cooking, encouraging readers to embrace seasonal  ingredients, fresh herbs and the joy of creating nourishing meals from nature's  bounty. 

Featuring more than 60 recipes spanning breakfasts, starters, soups, salads, mains,  desserts and signature drinks, the collection showcases Chef Hari's wellness-led approach to food. Highlights include Rainbow Root Ceviche, Gili Garden Green  Gazpacho, Teriyaki Tofu Steak with Coriander Sticky Rice, Pan-Seared Radish  Scallops, Roasted Green Cauliflower with Zesty Couscous and Caramel Pistachio Silk  Cheesecake, alongside treasured family recipes inspired by his South Indian heritage. 

"Plant to Plate is about making beautiful, wholesome food accessible to everyone," says Chef Hari Govindaraj. "The recipes are designed to be practical, flexible and  easy to recreate at home using fresh, seasonal ingredients. I want readers to feel  confident in the kitchen and to understand that some of the most memorable dishes  come from the simplest ingredients." 

A much-loved figure at Gili Lankanfushi Maldives, Chef Hari has spent the past two  decades helping shape the resort's culinary identity. Born in southern India, his  passion for cooking began at an early age and has evolved into a distinctive style  centred around sustainability, wellness and plant-based dining. Today, he oversees  the island's flourishing organic garden, growing herbs, fruits and vegetables used  throughout the resort's restaurants and menus. 

Throughout the book, Chef Hari challenges traditional perceptions of vegan cuisine,  transforming radishes into scallops, tofu into flavour-packed steaks and root  vegetables into vibrant ceviches. His inventive recipes demonstrate how plant-based  cooking can be every bit as satisfying, creative and indulgent as more conventional  dishes. 

Rodrigo Buanafina, General Manager of Gili Lankanfushi Maldives, comments "Chef  Hari has shaped the culinary identity of Gili Lankanfushi for two decades, inspiring  guests through his creativity, passion for sustainability and extraordinary ability to transform simple ingredients into unforgettable dining experiences. The new Plant to  Plate cookbook is a fitting celebration of his remarkable journey with the island and a  wonderful way for guests to take a taste of the Gili experience home with them.” 

Katie Nicholl, international broadcaster and author of the cookbook, comments  “When I first visited Gili Lankanfushi, I was captivated not only by the beauty of the  island but by Chef Hari’s extraordinary food. As a family of meat eaters, we were  amazed by the creativity, flavour and colour of his vegan cuisine. Plant to Plate is not just a book for vegans; it is for anyone who loves good food, enjoys healthy eating  and is curious about discovering exciting new flavours. Hari has an incredible gift for  transforming humble ingredients into something truly special, and his recipes prove  that plant-based cooking can be creative, accessible and, above all, delicious.” 

Mel Yates, Plant to  Plate combines evocative imagery of island life with easy-to-follow recipes designed  for delicious and healthy everyday living. The result is a visually striking keepsake that  transports readers to the shores of Gili Lankanfushi with every turn of the page. Sample recipes are available on request.  

Plant to Plate Vegan Recipes from Gili Lankanfushi Maldives will be available for  $100 USD with 25% of the profits going towards Cancer Society of Maldives (CSM)  

Plant to Plate: Vegan Recipes from Gili Lankanfushi Maldives will be available from October 2026 via the resort's website and on the island. Nightly rates at Gili  Lankanfushi start from £1,129 ($1,440) based on two adults sharing a Villa Suite with  breakfast included. For more information or to book please visit www.gili lankanfushi.com 

 Renowned for her soaring vocals and captivating stage presence, Kate Miller- Heidke brings her extraordinary talent to Kandooma for an exclusive island residency. A classically trained vocalist and one of Australia’s most distinctive performers, Kate moves seamlessly between pop, folk and opera. From composing Muriel’s Wedding The Musical and the award-winning opera The Rabbits, to representing Australia at Eurovision and coaching on The Voice Australia, her performances promise emotional depth and musical brilliance in an unforgettable setting. 

This October, guests of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort are invited to immerse themselves in the refined world of Japanese gastronomy as Thomas Ling, Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador and internationally acclaimed sake authority, returns for an exclusive two day sake experience celebrating culture, craftsmanship, and culinary artistry.

Curated on the secluded shores of Vommuli Island, the experience offers discerning traveler intimate access to one of Japan’s most respected voices in the world of Nihonshu, set against a backdrop of pristine natural beauty and serene seclusion.

Conferred by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan as a Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador, an honor shared among a select circle of global culinary luminaries including Nobu Matsuhisa and Tetsuya Wakuda, Thomas Ling has further received the Ambassador’s Commendation Award from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. With more than 24 years of refined expertise, he is celebrated for his dedication to promoting Japan’s “Kokushu,” the national collective heritage beverages of sake, shochu, and awamori, while safeguarding the cultural traditions that define them.

This collaboration forms part of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort’s Tastemaker Series, which brings together influential global talents to one of the Maldives’ most captivating private island destinations. The program continues to define the resort as a place where creativity, excellence, and cultural expression converge, offering guests rare opportunities to connect with leading voices across culinary arts, fine wine, mixology, wellness, and sport.

A Curated Program of Japanese Artistry

The experience begins on 5 October with an intimate Sake Masterclass hosted at T•Pan, the resort’s refined Japanese dining venue. Designed for a maximum of just 12 guests, the complimentary session offers an in depth exploration of premium sakes, guided by Ling’s expert commentary on brewing techniques, regional expression, and cultural significance.

The program begins on 5 October with an intimate Sake Masterclass at T•Pan, hosted by Thomas Ling. Taking place from 15:00 to 16:00, the complimentary experience is limited to 12 guests, offering a rare opportunity to explore premium sakes through expert insight into craftsmanship, regional expression, and cultural significance.

On 6 October, guests are invited to indulge in a meticulously curated four course Sake Pairing Dinner at Orientale, where contemporary Japanese cuisine is elevated through thoughtful pairings that enhance flavor, texture, and balance. Designed as a one night only experience, the evening celebrates harmony between dish and drink in the spirit of true omotenashi.

The Four Course Sake Pairing Dinner will be served from 19:00 to 22:30, priced at USD 295++ per person.

For more information and details, please visit www.stregismaldives.com 

Following an unforgettable season of culinary collaborations, Kandolhu Maldives is excited to welcome the visionary Executive Chef Fabrizio Zanetti to its serene shores. This October, the luxurious island sanctuary will host an exclusive series of dining experiences, offering guests a  rare opportunity to savour the elegant artistry of one of Europe's most celebrated culinary  talents. 

A St Moritz native, Executive Chef Zanetti brings a masterful touch to his craft, having led the  kitchens at the prestigious Hotel Suvretta House in St. Moritz for over a decade. Like a fairytale  castle, Grand Hotel Suvretta House in St. Moritz, Switzerland, rises up against the high-alpine  backdrop of the Upper Engadin. The 5-star Suvretta House, built in 1912 by Swiss hotel pioneer  Anton Bon, is undoubtedly one of the finest mountain hotels in the world, with a brand-new spa  spanning 4,670 square meters, which opened for the winter season 2025/2026.  

His meteoric rise in the culinary world includes time spent refining his skills at Michelin-starred  establishments such as Baur au Lac in Zurich and the Savoy Grill in London. His dedication to  gastronomy has culminated in an exceptional 17 points in the Gault-Millau Guide 2025 and the  esteemed Mérite Culinaire Suisse award. Furthermore, his remarkable ability to blend classic  French cuisine with German and Swiss influences led him to be crowned the Gault-Millau Rising  Star of the Year in 2024. 

This highly anticipated culinary collaboration begins on Wednesday, 14 October, with an à la carte  light lunch service at The Market. Diners can enjoy a curated 3-course meal. An intimate four course dinner will be held on Saturday, 17 October at Olive Restaurant. The evening begins with a  personal meet-and-greet with Chef Zanetti before guests are seated for an unforgettable culinary  journey.  

On Wednesday, 21 October, a five-course Wine and Dine experience will take place at Olive. Matching the exclusivity of the previous dinner event, this evening also begins with a personal introduction from the chef himself. The intimate setting ensures that each diner can fully immerse  themselves in a presentation of fine wine and exceptional flavours. 

Each evening is reserved for just twenty-two guests, creating an intimate atmosphere at Olive  Restaurant, which offers stirring views over the Indian Ocean. Epicureans and discerning travellers are invited to reserve their place early for this unique fusion of Maldivian paradise and French culinary artistry.

Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort, has announced the upcoming residency of internationally acclaimed British designer Matthew Williamson. Taking place from 21 to 31 October 2026, the residency will invite guests to immerse themselves in Williamson's vibrant creative universe through exclusive workshops and artistic experiences inspired by the natural beauty of the Maldives.

Widely recognised for his kaleidoscopic use of colour, bold patterns and joyful maximalist aesthetic, Williamson first rose to prominence with his acclaimed debut collection at London Fashion Week in 1997. Over a career spanning more than two decades, he has become one of Britain's most celebrated creative talents, expanding from fashion into interiors, homeware and design, where his distinctive approach continues to shape inspiring spaces around the world.

Matthew Williamson's residency forms part of Finolhu's ongoing Art & Design programme, an initiative that has welcomed an exceptional roster of internationally acclaimed creatives to the island throughout 2026. Earlier this year, guests had the opportunity to engage with celebrated British artist and designer Sophie Tea, renowned fashion illustrator and creative director Megan Hess, acclaimed interior designer and television personality Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, and multidisciplinary artist Natasha Kumar. Through workshops, exhibitions and immersive creative experiences, the programme continues to foster meaningful connections between guests and some of the world's most inspiring artistic talents.

A proud member of Design Hotels™, Finolhu is renowned for its bold design identity and creative approach to luxury hospitality. The resort's Art & Design programme extends this philosophy beyond architecture and interiors, offering guests rare opportunities to engage directly with globally recognised artists, designers and cultural visionaries in an inspiring island setting.

During his residency at Finolhu, Williamson will lead a series of intimate guest workshops focused on one of his favourite motifs – the palm tree. Drawing inspiration from the island's tropical landscape, participants will explore an abstract and contemporary painting style that celebrates colour, nature and personal expression. Designed for both aspiring and experienced creatives, the sessions will offer guests a unique opportunity to engage directly with one of the industry's most influential designers while creating their own artwork to take home.

The residency further strengthens Finolhu's position as a leading creative destination in the Maldives, bringing together art, design and meaningful guest engagement in a setting that encourages inspiration, self-expression and cultural exchange.

At the heart of the programme is Finolhu's Art Lab, a striking barnacle-inspired creative sanctuary that serves as a hub for artistic expression and cultural exchange. The space hosts workshops, exhibitions and immersive experiences throughout the year, encouraging guests to explore their creativity while engaging with leading artists and designers from around the world.

Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort, has established itself as one of the Maldives' most celebrated lifestyle resorts, renowned for its vibrant personality, playful approach to luxury and iconic two-kilometre sandbank, one of the longest in the Maldives. Located within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, the resort offers a collection of stylish beachfront and overwater villas, diverse culinary experiences, holistic wellness offerings and immersive recreational experiences. Known for seamlessly blending barefoot luxury with a dynamic social atmosphere, Finolhu has cultivated a loyal international following and continues to distinguish itself through creative guest experiences, contemporary design and a distinctive sense of island character. Through initiatives such as its Art & Design programme, the resort further reinforces its reputation as a destination where creativity, culture and hospitality converge in inspiring and unexpected ways.

To learn more about Finolhu, a Seaside Collection resort, visit finolhu.com

What happens when one of tennis’s most accomplished doubles players swaps the intensity of the Grand Slam circuit for barefoot island living? This October, Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort, welcomes British tennis champion Jamie Murray for an exclusive week-long residency, taking place from 23 to 27 October 2026.

A former World No. 1 in doubles, seven-time Grand Slam champion and Davis Cup winner, Murray brings more than two decades at the highest level of professional tennis to the island. Having announced his retirement from professional tennis earlier this year after a career spanning 36 years, his residency at Finolhu marks a new chapter – one where the competitive court gives way to a more relaxed setting for sharing his knowledge, passion and love of the game.

During his time at Finolhu, guests will have the opportunity to step onto the court with one of British tennis’s most successful doubles players, gaining personal insight into the game from someone who has competed, won and travelled at the very highest level.

The residency will bring together exclusive tennis sessions, informal coaching and opportunities for guests to connect with Murray away from the traditional tournament environment, creating an experience that is as much about the stories and spirit of the sport as it is about the game itself.

Murray’s career is marked by an extraordinary collection of achievements. He became the first British player to reach World No. 1 in the ATP doubles rankings in 2016, the same year he won the Australian Open and US Open men’s doubles titles alongside Bruno Soares. His seven Grand Slam victories also include mixed doubles titles at Wimbledon and the US Open, while his contribution to Great Britain’s 2015 Davis Cup triumph remains one of the defining moments of his career.

Now, the setting is altogether different.

Surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean and Finolhu’s signature two-kilometre sandbank, guests can combine time on court with the freedom of island life – from barefoot walks along the sand to long lunches, ocean adventures, sunset moments and evenings under the stars.

At Finolhu, tennis becomes another way to embrace the island’s playful spirit: competitive when you want it to be, relaxed when you don’t. With Murray’s residency taking place during the resort’s vibrant October season, guests can expect a week where world-class sporting experience meets the carefree rhythm of Maldivian island life.

The Jamie Murray Tennis Residency takes place at Finolhu from 23 to 27 October 2026.

For more information and reservations, visit finolhu.com.

This Diwali, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort turned its focus to Indian Ocean cuisine, not as a festive accent, but as a catalyst for long-term culinary storytelling. The initiative culminates in a dedicated culinary activation at Cargo, the resort’s new dining concept, designed to strengthen awareness while advancing the narrative of its Indian gastronomy. Rather than marking an opening, the Diwali moment serves as a spotlight on Cargo’s evolving culinary identity presenting Indian flavors through a contemporary, destination-driven lens shaped by spice traditions, refined techniques, and the wider Indian Ocean context.

Chef Surjan Singh, widely known as Chef Jolly, was invited to collaborate on this vision for his deep understanding of regional Indian foodways and his ability to work within a broader Indian culinary context. Rather than centering on signature dishes or personal expression, the collaboration focused on shaping a cuisine-led concept, one that respects classical techniques while adapting them thoughtfully for an international, luxury-seeking audience.

During the Diwali period from October 28 to October 30, 2026, Chef Jolly has worked closely with the resort’s culinary team to design and enhance Cargo’s Indian menu, shaping a modern interpretation of Indian cuisine defined by aromatic spices, refined techniques, and balanced flavor profiles. Drawing on his prior engagements at the resort, the focus has been on creating an Indian dining experience that feels contemporary rather than traditionally bound, establishing a strong culinary foundation that complements the venue’s Indian Ocean setting while allowing the menu to evolve over time.

The outcome is Cargo, a modern regional dining space designed around accessibility, warmth, and precision. Menus balance familiarity and discovery, allowing guests to experience Indian, Maldivian, and Sri Lankan dishes through a refined yet approachable lens. By anchoring the concept in technique, ingredient integrity, and regional storytelling, Cargo establishes Indian Ocean cuisine as a permanent and meaningful presence within the resort’s dining portfolio.

This approach reflects a broader shift in luxury hospitality, where cuisine is increasingly used to build identity and narrative rather than seasonal programing. For The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, the launch of Cargo represents a strategic interpretation in a modern Indian menu, one that draws inspiration from the wider Indian Ocean pantry yet is interpreted through contemporary technique rather than strict authenticity.

Developed by Chef Jolly and Chef Christian Pedersen, the resort Executive Chef , the Indian offering at Cargo is designed as a refined, modern expression of flavor, balancing aromatic spices, elegance, and approachability. Set within lush gardens and experienced by lantern light and night breeze, the venue brings together vibrant Indian dishes and a sensorial island setting, reinforcing Cargo’s role as a distinctive dining destination within the resort’s culinary portfolio.

Curated to coincide with Diwali, this exclusive series of dining experiences brings the richness of Indian cuisine to the Maldives through thoughtfully designed menus, intimate events, and interactive moments with the chef. With over 30 years of culinary experience and widespread recognition from MasterChef India, Chef Jolly is known for presenting regional Indian flavours with contemporary finesse, balancing tradition with access and warmth.

With restaurant partnerships across London, Singapore, and Qatar, Chef Jolly brings a globally informed perspective to modern Indian cuisine, shaped by his work with leading hospitality brands in established international markets.

Through this Diwali initiative and the opening of Cargo, the resort demonstrates how thoughtful collaboration, guided by culture rather than personality, can transform a festival moment into a destination dining experience with lasting relevance.

Diwali Culinary Highlights with Chef Jolly

As part of the Diwali activation, Chef Jolly brings a series of curated culinary experiences to The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, using Indian cuisine as a connecting narrative across distinct dining settings.

Festival of Lights Set Menu | Cargo

At the heart of the celebration is Cargo’s Indian menu, featuring refined three-course and five-course set menus inspired by Diwali traditions across India. Designed as a modern interpretation rather than a traditional offering, the menus emphasize aromatic spices, balance, and contemporary technique.Available from October 28 to November 8, 2026

Chef Jolly Wine Dinner | Decanter

A one-evening dining experience presenting a six-course Indian menu paired with selected wines, highlighting the depth and versatility of Indian flavors within a refined, intimate setting.

October 29, 2026 | 19:30 – 22:30

Master Cooking Class with Chef Jolly | ALBA

An intimate, hands-on session offering guests insight into key Indian cooking techniques and flavor building, led directly by the chef.

October 30, 2026 | 13:00 – 14:30Complimentary | Limited to 8 guests

Together, these moments form a cohesive Diwali narrative, extending beyond a single venue to elevate Indian cuisine as a cultural, culinary, and experiential focus, while reinforcing Cargo’s position as a destination restaurant within the resort.

For more information and details, please visit www.stregismaldives.com 

As summer unfolds across the Indian Ocean, Sirru Fen Fushi – Private  Lagoon Resort, a proud member of The Leading Hotels of the World, invites travellers to  discover a slower, more relaxed side of the Maldives with its Last-Minute Summer Escape special offer, designed for couples and families seeking meaningful time together in a  naturally beautiful island setting. 

Nestled within one of the largest lagoons in the Maldives, Sirru Fen Fushi – Private  Lagoon Resort offers a distinctive blend of privacy, space, and authentic island  experiences. Surrounded by white sandy beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and vibrant  marine life, the resort provides an idyllic setting for summer holidays, whether travelling  as a couple, family, or multi-generational group. 

Available for a limited time, the Last-Minute Summer Escape combines exceptional seasonal value with thoughtful inclusions designed to enhance every stay. Guests can  enjoy daily breakfast at Raha Market, dine-around dinners across the resort's restaurants, complimentary stays and dining for children under 12, and villa upgrades subject to availability. 

Beyond its natural beauty, Sirru Fen Fushi offers a diverse range of experiences for all  ages. Guests can explore the resort's Sustainability Lab, take part in coral planting and recycling workshops, enjoy a wide selection of water sports and marine excursions,  discover arts and crafts activities, join wellness experiences, or spend quality time  together through sports and recreational activities across the island. 

With spacious villas, family-friendly facilities, and experiences designed to appeal to every generation, the resort offers an effortless way to create meaningful memories during the  summer season. 

Summer is a wonderful time to experience Sirru Fen Fushi. Families have more time to travel together, children can immerse themselves in nature and discovery, and guests can enjoy the freedom to explore our island at a relaxed pace. The Last-Minute Summer  Escape combines these experiences with added value, making it even easier to create  meaningful memories in the Maldives.