Tuesday, September 10, 2024 Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Maldives through thoughtfully curated guest experiences designed to offer exploration and learning. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the “Spirit of the Maldives,” a weekly Tuesday event that features a grand buffet showcasing traditional Maldivian cuisine. The dishes are infused with flavors influenced by Indian and Arabic culinary traditions, focusing on local ingredients such as fresh tuna, chili, and coconut.
Alongside the meal, guests can enjoy a vibrant cultural performance by the Kandooma Bodu Beru dance troupe, who bring the islands’ history and folklore to life through rhythmic drumming, dance, and soulful songs. The event is priced at US $69++ for adults and is complimentary for children under 12. For those keen to dive deeper into the culinary heritage of the Maldives, the resort offers “Maldivian Masterclasses” twice a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 3 pm to 4 pm.
These intimate cooking sessions, led by the resort’s talented chefs, give participants a chance to learn how to recreate the distinctive flavors and food combinations of Maldivian cuisine. The experience concludes with a tasting session and the opportunity to take home recipes to share with loved ones. The classes are limited to eight participants and are priced at US $80 per person, adults only.
Guests can also find their rhythm in the complimentary “Bodu Beru Drumming Class” held every Saturday morning. This interactive session offers insight into the traditional Bodu Beru drums, made from coconut wood and covered with goat or manta ray skin. Participants will learn how to play the drums, starting with a slow, steady beat that builds into a captivating rhythm, accompanied by chants.
This unique cultural experience is open to all guests at no additional cost. Through these offerings, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives provides an enriching cultural journey, blending local traditions with memorable guest experiences. “Our cultural showcase is a terrific opportunity for visitors to learn about the Maldives while staying with us.
Whether they learn to play Bodu Beru, savour local delicacies, or enjoy a captivating performance, the experiences provide an unforgettable journey into the heart of island culture and make memories to last a lifetime,” said Mark Eletr, General Manager, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. “It makes a big difference to the guest experience to have an international staff where foreign visitors can minimise language barriers, and we’re proud to do that for our key markets. But what guests remark on the most is how lovely it is to see Maldivian people working at Kandooma and sharing their stories and bright smiles.
Our Maldivian team members have a special warmth about them, and when guests feel it too, it gives me that warm, fuzzy feeling. It’s very special.” he added.
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is proud to foster a team where over 40% of its staff are local Maldivians, as part of its strong commitment to sustainability. By supporting local communities, economies, and promoting Maldivian culture, the resort aims to create an authentic experience for guests. General Manager Mark Eletr shares that the goal is for visitors to leave with cherished memories and a lasting connection to the Maldives through the meaningful activities and experiences offered at the resort.
Kandooma Maldives embodies the warmth and hospitality of the Maldivian people, creating an inviting atmosphere for all who visit. Located in the South Male Atoll, just a 40-minute boat ride from the airport, the resort is a natural island paradise, featuring pristine white sand beaches, swaying coconut palms, and crystal-clear turquoise waters—an idyllic setting for relaxation and world-class scuba diving. Guests have a variety of accommodation options, including Garden and Beach Villas, two-story Beach Houses, and the popular Overwater Villas.
Families are especially well catered for with spacious 2- and 3-bedroom villas, alongside the Kandoo Kids’ Club, which offers an engaging program of activities. The resort’s six dining outlets offer a culinary journey that explores the rich flavors of the Maldives, ensuring all tastes are satisfied. For those seeking rest and relaxation, sun-loungers and hammocks are scattered around the island, providing peaceful retreats.
Guests can also rejuvenate at the Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala, offering a tranquil sanctuary for both body and mind..
