Thursday, August 29, 2024 Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is set to launch the inaugural ‘Kandooma Manta Month,’ featuring a series of captivating activities to promote manta ray conservation and provide guests with unforgettable experiences in the Maldives’ pristine waters. Building on the success of last year’s week-long celebration, which began on World Manta Day and garnered enthusiastic guest feedback, the Resort has extended the event to a month-long celebration starting 1 September 2024. “We’re excited to dedicate an entire month to celebrating manta rays.
This initiative is not just about raising awareness—it’s about giving our guests the chance to connect with nature, learn about conservation, and contribute to the preservation of one of the ocean’s most majestic species.” said Mark Eletr, General Manager, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. “As an avid diver, I’ve had the privilege of encountering manta rays in their natural habitat, and it’s truly a humbling experience.
These creatures symbolize the beauty and mystery of the ocean, and it’s our duty to ensure their survival for future generations. Through our Kandooma Manta Month activities, we aim to inspire our guests to join us in protecting these gentle giants.” added Mark.
Just last year, a group of guest divers, along with General Manager Mark, successfully rescued a Giant Oceanic Manta Ray entangled in ghost nets. The manta was later identified and added to The Manta Trust’s database. “We were thrilled when The Manta Trust named the rescued Manta Ray ‘Kandooma’ in acknowledgement of the team who freed him and the waters where he was located.
” said Mark. Manta Rays, known as ‘Madi’ in the Maldivian Dhivehi language, are the largest rays in the ocean, and the Maldives is home to the world’s largest population of reef manta rays, with over 5,831 identified individuals. Among these oceanic giants is ‘Kandooma,’ who was rescued from ghost nets last year and became the 915th Oceanic Manta Ray recorded in Maldivian waters by The Manta Trust.
As part of the inaugural World Manta Ray Month, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is offering a range of exciting activities designed to raise awareness about manta ray conservation. Guests can participate in guided scuba dives and snorkeling excursions to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat and learn about the threats they face. Marine Biology talks, led by guest and in-house expert speakers, will provide further insights into manta ray behavior.
In addition to these experiences, the resort has recently launched a new jewelry line inspired by the beautiful Manta Ray. A portion of each pendant sold will be donated to The Manta Trust, supporting their ongoing conservation efforts. For younger guests, the resort offers a Kids’ Marine Explorers Program, where children can learn about manta rays through fun and educational activities, earning the title of certified “Kandoo Ambassadors” by the end of their stay.
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is ideally situated near some of the Maldives’ top dive sites, and both guests and staff are deeply committed to the well-being of the ocean and its inhabitants. The resort’s efforts align with IHG’s sustainability program, ‘Journey to Tomorrow,’ which contributes to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. Located in the South Male Atoll, just 40 minutes by boat from the airport, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is a stunning island paradise.
White sandy beaches, swaying coconut palms, and turquoise waters provide the perfect setting for a variety of leisure activities and world-class diving. Guests can choose from Garden and Beach Villas, two-story Beach Houses, and the popular Overwater Villas. Families are well catered for with 2- and 3-bedroom villas, the Kandoo Kids’ Club, and a comprehensive activities program.
With six dining outlets, guests can explore the flavors of the Maldives, while sun loungers and hammocks around the island offer ultimate relaxation. The serene Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala provides a sanctuary for both body and mind..
