‘A World of Flavors’ at the Sheraton Maldives

Miles away from home in the picturesque islands of the Maldives, whether you are just soaking up the sun or exploring the depths of the ocean, you are bound for sure to work up an appetite for a feast by the end of the day. With a similar thought in mind, the main buffet restaurant of Feast at the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa has recently introduced special themed nights titled ‘A World of Flavors’ showcasing a range of cuisines from all over the world throughout the week.

Situated on its private island just a 15 minute boat ride from the airport, the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa has always stood out for its varied dining options with a total of 4 restaurants and 3 bars ranging from casual al fresco snacks to the international array of restaurants to suit the mood of anyone. And with the introduction of the themed nights, guests get to experience a number of cuisines ranging from Italian, Chinese, Mediterranean, Indian and BBQ among others on selective nights.

“The newly introduced themed nights have been quite popular with our guests. When we are travelling, we either seek either comfort foods from home or explore new cuisines and this gives our guests a chance to explore a whole world of flavors”, said Mr. Moon Kang, Executive Assistant Manager for Food & Beverage.

Sheraton Maldives also hosts a number of other themed nights such as the Seafood BBQ and Maldivian Night at the Coconut Grove Beach and Sand & Stars at the Anchorage Beach.

For more information about Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, visit sheraton.com/maldives.

EXPLORE STARWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS ASIA PACIFIC’S EXCLUSIVE VILLA COLLECTION

With hundreds of luxury villas in Asia Pacific’s top resorts, Starwood’s Villa Collection offers the most savvy travelers a new way to stay and a new way to pla.

Starwood Hotels and Resorts is pleased to announce the launch of the Starwood Asia Pacific Villa Collection, bringing together one of the region’s largest collection of luxury villas into one place for guests and travel professionals to explore. The new website, www.starwoodhotels.com/villacollectionasiapacific , offers one-stop convenience for locating and booking unique, high-end luxury villas in Asia Pacific’s most exotic and sought-after resorts and locations.


“The Starwood Asia Pacific Villa Collection offers a large and diverse selection of exclusive, breathtaking settings from which to explore Asia Pacific’s most exciting locations and captivating countries,” said Alison Taylor, Vice President of Sales, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Asia Pacific. “Whether you’re looking for the perfect honeymoon retreat or an exciting family adventure, Starwood has made it easier to match the perfect location to the ideal experience.”

As the world’s largest operator of luxury hotels & resorts, the Starwood portfolio includes more than 1000 hotels in 100 countries around the globe, including 200 idyllic resorts with stunning, private villas in some of the world’s most exotic locations. The Starwood Asia Pacific Villas are an award-winning collection of 768 villas in 19 of Starwood’s resorts across the Asia Pacific region, ranging from Australia to China. By aggregating all of its premier Asia Pacific villas into one unique collection, Starwood has made it infinitely more convenient to explore, compare and tailor the desired experience to each resort’s location, brand and lifestyle offerings.

The Luxury Villa Lifestyle

Created with the most discerning guests in mind, the Villas are a home away from home with all the comforts and luxury found in the world’s finest hotels. Designed for privacy and luxury, the villas are ideally situated to take advantage of the resort’s best features, such as panoramic ocean views, convenient poolside or beach access, or privacy. Many of the villas in the collection offer private pools, outdoor dining areas, state-of-the-art kitchens, and multiple bedrooms. Most of the resorts offer luxurious spas and unique dining destinations, as well as access to world-class recreation such as snorkelling, diving, championship golf, sailing, deep-sea fishing and more.

The resorts in the Starwood Asia Villa Collection each offer a gateway to an exotic new world, with villas that are inspired by the local environs and reflect each hotel’s brand. Le Meridien properties are contemporary and offer a unique new perspective to the experience through its culture programs; the St. Regis villas are lush, sumptuous and sophisticated; W villas are modern and edgy, a great way to escape; The Luxury Collection properties are exclusive and reflect the local flavors; the Sheraton resorts are perfectly suited for adventurous families; the Westin experience promote health and wellbeing.

Some, like the tropical island villas at The St. Regis Bali Resort, come with your own personal St. Regis Butler. Others, like the contemporary villas at the Le Meridien Koh Samui Resort & Spa feature indoor-outdoor bathrooms and showers. Still others, like the chic ocean villas at the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, boasts uninterrupted ocean views and luxurious outdoor areas with plunge pool, daybed, outdoor rainforest shower, private BBQ hammock and garden seating.

The villas in the Starwood Asia Pacific Villa Collection are perfectly suited for adventurous families who want to enjoy the region’s most exotic locations from the comfort and luxury of a spacious, meticulously-appointed villa with all the lifestyle conveniences and access to exciting recreation opportunities. Great family locations include Sheraton Port Mirage Douglas Resort, Austalia; The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa, Phuket; Sheraton Sanya Resort, China.

Of course, the private villas in the Starwood Asia Pacific Villa Collection are also the perfect romantic getaway for honeymooning newlyweds and couples celebrating anniversaries. Some of the most secluded and romantic getaways include W Retreat & Spa Maldives, The Naka Island – A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, St. Regis Bali, and many more.


The Starwood Asia Pacific Villa Collection includes the following resorts:

· Australia: Sheraton Mirage Resort & Spa Gold Coast; Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas Resort
· China: Sheraton Sanya Resort; Le Meridien Shimei Bay Beach Resort & Spa; Le Meridien Xiamen
· Fiji: Sheraton Denarau Villas
· India: The Westin Sohna Resort & Spa
· Indonesia: The Laguna, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua, Bali; The St. Regis Bali Resort; W Retreat & Spa Bali – Seminyak
· Malaysia: The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa
· Maldives: Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa; W Retreat & Spa Maldives
· New Caledonia: Le Meridien Ile des Pins
· Thailand: Le Meridien Khao Lak Beach & Spa Resort; The Naka Island – A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa; The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa Phuket; Le Meridien Koh Samui Resort & Spa; W Koh Samui

More properties are under development and will be added to the collection include Vana Belle Samui Resort & Spa, Samui; The Westin Ubud Resort & Spa, Bali; The Westin Jaipur, Infotech City, India; The St. Regis Sanya Yalong Bay Resort; and, Sheraton Guangzhou Huadu Resort.

For more information, or to experience the Starwood Asia Pacific Villa Collection, visit www.starwoodhotels.com/villacollectionasiapacific.

Sheraton Maldives Chef’s shares and teaches the secrets and tips of some of popular signature dishes

It’s quite often, we wonder how a particular dish was made or why it tastes so good or even whether if we can try it ourselves once we go back home. But in most times, we are left pondering forever to the answers of our assumptions.

The Chef’s at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa have literally stepped out of the kitchen for the ‘Cooking Class’ to show teach how to master their cooking skills from preparing signature dishes to tips behind making a perfect barbeque.

Guests of this master class will also have the opportunity to dine with the Executive Chef of Sheraton Maldives, Mr. Sven Cepon himself at the ‘Chef’s Table’ where he shares his secrets and tips as he personally guides the guests through the special set menu prepared for the lunch.

Speaking regarding the new classes, Chef Sven said that “Many of our guests are very curious by our creations and have a lot of questions on how certain dishes are made and the ingredients used. It’s for this reason that you’ll see the culinary team and I mingling and talking to the guests during their dining experience. From these interactions, we thought that something like this would be great, so that we get to share our experience and create memorable connections with our guests”.

The Chef’s Table is scheduled every other Thursday from 12pm to 2pm while the Cooking Class is scheduled every other Thursday from 11am to 1:30pm.

For more details about Sheraton Maldives, connect to www.sheraton.com/maldives

Sheraton Maldives shares the recipes of their Signature Cocktails

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa has introduced Cocktail Classes to share the recipes of their most requested and signature cocktails.

Speaking regarding the cocktail class, Executive Assistant Manager for Food & Beverage Mr. Moon Kang said that “A lot of our guests are enticed by the signature cocktails that have been conjured by our skilled bartenders. We wanted to go the extra step and connect with our guests by showing how to make their favorite drinks as well sharing the recipes.”

Sheraton Maldives shares the recipe for their signature cocktail Senorita Mojito;

Ingredients

Half Lime – Approx. 10g

02 Table spoons of Brown Sugar

Hand full of Mint Leaves

40ml of Bacardi Gold Rum

10ml of Elderflower Cordial

03pcs of Lychee

30ml of Soda

Instructions

Put all the ingredients in to an old fashioned glass and smash with muddler.

Once done, fill the glass with crushed ice.

“After all, we at Sheraton always believe that life is better when shared and felt that sharing the recipes with our guests was a truly memorable experience which they get to take back home and impress their friends and family.”,  Moon added.

The cocktail classes are scheduled every Sunday from 3pm to 5pm at the Anchorage Bar - Sheraton Maldives Resort.

For more details about Sheraton Maldives, connect to www.sheraton.com/maldives

STARWOOD RESORTS MALDIVES APPOINTS FRANCIS AMBATT AS DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES - MALDIVES

Starwood Resorts Maldives has appointed Mr. Francis Ambatt as the Director of Human Resources – Maldives for its two leading resorts, the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa and the W Retreat & Spa - Maldives.

Francis, who joins Starwood Resorts Maldives from The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace in India, brings to the team over 15 years of human resources’ experience in a number of multicultural organizations. Beginning his career with Al Mufta Group in Doha, Qatar he was responsible for managing the HR functions of some of the world’s leading franchised retail outlets, such as Pizza Hut, KFC and American Fried Chicken.

“I am excited to be here in the Maldives to lead the HR functions of both the W Retreat & Spa Maldives and Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa. More excited as I carry the Starwood baton to carry its people philosophy, mindful of our unique positioning and committed service delivery”, Francis said citing his appointment.

Known as a keen strategist with a flair for designing and implementing innovative strategies and HR interventions, Francis said that both resorts of Starwood Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives have many things to their credit – the best happening and performing resorts in the South Asia Region, and that it is time that they are to be taken to the next level of excellence in human resources practices.

Some of the world renowned brands which Francis has worked for include The Westin Hotels & Resorts, Taj Group, Six Senses and Accor.

2011 Rugby World Cup fever in the Maldives

The 2011 Rugby World Cup taking place in New Zealand is just a day away from kick off and the fever is catching on nearly half a world away in the tropical island destination of the Maldives.

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, one of the two Starwood Resorts in the Maldives, has joined the enthralling fever surrounding the tournament and is set to broadcast live telecasts of the game every day.

Speaking regarding the 2011 Rugby World Cup Fever in the Maldives, Director of Sales & Marketing at Sheraton Maldives Mr. Peter Foreman said that “The Rugby World Cup is an event looked forward to by many and that with passion for their favorite teams running high we want to ensure that our guests feel closer to the action”.

In the classic setting of an English Pub at the Drifters Bar in Sheraton Maldives, guests will be able to enjoy free flow of chilled beers, juices and soft drinks for US$30++ after a long hot day in the sun. For guests who want to feel even closer to the host destination New Zealand, can enjoy free flow of Sileni’s wine from New Zealand for just US$45++.

Continuing further, Peter Foreman said that “At Sheraton we always look forward to sharing moments like these with our guests. This is very much part of our philosophy as our core values are about connecting with each other and our communities”.

The 2011 Rugby World Cup will be the seventh Rugby World Cup and the 20 teams which will feature this year are Argentina, Australia, England, Fiji, France, Ireland, Italy, New Zealand, Scotland, South Africa, Tonga, Wales, Canada, Georgia, Japan, Namibia, Romania, Russia, Samoa and United States.

The tournament will take place from 9th September to 11th October 2011.

Sheraton Maldives appoints Sven Cepon as Executive Chef

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa has promoted Mr. Sven Cepon to the position of Executive Chef.

Born in Oberhausen of Germany, Sven began his career at home and served with a number of 5 star hotels in Cyprus and Switzerland for over 5 years before moving to the Maldives in 2008 as Executive Sous Chef for the W Retreat & Spa Maldives. After having served W Maldives for nearly 2 years, Sven joined Sheraton Maldives in 2010.

Citing the promotion, Sven said that he is very happy to get the opportunity to take over the position as Executive Chef for Sheraton Maldives and that he is looking forward to working with the highly creative and motivated culinary team in his new capacity.

The promotion comes after the departure of Executive Chef, Mr. Garth Welsh who transferred to The Westin Kuala Lumpur, after having completed his assignment at the Sheraton Maldives.

Sven continued on to state that he was very much looking forward to continuing the momentum left behind by former Executive Chef Garth Welsh as he refreshes the dining options currently available and introduces new concepts with the culinary team at Sheraton Maldives.

This is the second key food and beverage appointment by Sheraton Maldives. Recently, Sheraton announced the appointment of Mr. Moon Kang as Executive Assistant Manager – Food & Beverage.

Sheraton Maldives and W Maldives participates in the “Upgrade” Campaign by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Asia Pacific

Guests can book a premium room at 20% discount off the regular rate

Maldives, September 2011 – Sheraton Maldives and W Maldives participates in the ‘Upgrade’ campaign which was launched today by Starwood Hotels and Resorts Asia Pacific.

This campaign allows travelers to book a premium room at 20% discount off the regular rate and enjoy upgraded benefits associated the respective room category.

Travelers can avail the offer for the Ocean Villas & Water Villas at Sheraton Maldives and the Ocean Lagoon Oasis, Seascape Escape & Ocean Haven at W Maldives.

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa
Welcoming and luxurious, the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa is ideal for couples and families. Relax and unwind on the private spa island or take to the water in the crystal clear lagoon.
www.sheraton.com/maldives

W Retreat & Spa - Maldives
Ultra-chic designer facilities blend seamlessly with barefoot luxury whilst traditional Maldivian exteriors house deliciously elegant interiors. This gorgeous W Retreat island is an exclusive playground for grown ups.
www.whotels.com/maldives

The Upgrade offer can be booked online at www.starwood-ap.com/upgrade2011, Starwood’s Customer Contact Centers or calling the hotel direct. This promotion can be booked from 5th – 30th September 2011 and is valid for stays until 30th April 2012.

Please visit www.starwood-ap.com/upgrade2011 for the full list of terms and conditions. Participating brands include Sheraton, Westin, St. Regis, The Luxury Collection, Four Points by Sheraton, W, Le Méridien and Aloft.

Sheraton Maldives and W Maldives participates in 'Weekend Sale' by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Asia Pacific

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Asia Pacific provides travelers an added reason to take a weekend break with the launch of the ‘Weekend Sale’ promotion. Weekend getaways just got easier with more than 115 participating hotels and resorts across Asia Pacific offering a “20% off standard rates” deal that includes complimentary breakfast for 2 people.

The promotion runs from 8 August to 4 September 2011 and bookings during this 4 week period are applicable for weekend stays up to 2 April 2012.

Sheraton Maldives appoints Moon Kang as Executive Assistant Manager - Food & Beverage

Sheraton Maldives has announced the appointment of Moon Kang as Executive Assistant Manager - Food & Beverage.

Prior to his appointment at Sheraton Maldives, Moon served as Director of Food & Beverage at W Seoul Walkerhill from 2008 onwards. During his tenure with W Seoul Walkerhill, Moon was instrumental in the growth of the property’s food & beverage revenues and also for a number of acclaimed awards awarded to the property.

Being an Australian, Moon began his nearly decade long career with Starwood Hotels & Resorts close to home at The Westin Sydney in 2002 as Lobby Bar Shift Leader. During the span of 6 years which he spent with The Westin Sydney, he rose through the ranks to the position of Mosaic Restaurant and In Room Dining Manager in 2006 before joining W Seoul Walkerhill.

Referring to the appointment with Sheraton Maldives, Moon said that ―I’m very excited to be in the Maldives and to join the wonderful team here at Sheraton Maldives.

Continuing further regarding the Maldives, Moon cited that he was one of several million people who have always desired to visit the sunny paradise of the Maldives. Known for his friendly charisma and positive thinking at work, Moon loves to go fishing and snorkeling during his spare time and expressed a new found interest to learn more about the culture and island lifestyle in the Maldives.

Moon whose educational background lies in Commerce, Hotel Management and Customer Service attained his Masters at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia.

Appointment of Marcus Reinders as Managing Director, Starwood Resorts - Maldives

Starwood Resorts Maldives (Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa + W Maldives Retreat & Spa) are very pleased to announce the appointment of Marcus Reinders as Managing Director.


New Zealand born, Marcus brings over 22 years of luxury hotel experience to his new role in the Maldives.
With more than 10 years’ experience with W Hotels Worldwide, Marcus will oversee the operation of the brands flagship retreat, W Maldives Retreat & Spa along with recently renovated Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa.

Marcus has worked with W Sydney, W San Francisco, W New Orleans (where he was the recipient of the Starwood Hotels & Resorts Award for Heroism in recognition for efforts during Hurricane Katrina) and W Atlanta Midtown.
After spending more than ten years in the United States, Marcus moved back to his native home of New Zealand where he was the General Manager of The Westin Auckland Lighter Quay prior to his appointment in the Maldives.

www.etravelblackboardasia.com

Ursula Schofel Joins Sheraton Maldives as General Manager

Ms. Ursula Schofel has been appointed as General Manager of the Sheraton Maldives.

With a two-decade career dedicated to Starwood Hotels & Resorts that has spanned twelve countries, Ms Schoefl’s varied overseas experience has fostered her ability to adapt to new cultures and environments, and she plans to direct this talent into orchestrating the operation behind Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa.

Ms Schoefl’s career began at Sheraton Frankfurt Hotel in 1988 after graduating from the Hotel Management School Schloss, Klessheim in Salzburg, Austria. She started in food and beverage before moving to the front office. After 10 years in Frankfurt, she took the Front Office Manager’s post at the Arabella Sheraton Pelikan Hotel in Hanover, Germany.

Eager to travel and meet new challenges, Ms Schoefl started trotting the globe with Sheraton in 1999, taking front office and rooms’ division positions in Egypt, Tanzania, China, Malaysia, Vietnam and Hong Kong.

Prior to commencement of her leadership role at Sheraton Maldives, Ms Schoefl was Hotel Manager at Le Méridien Chiang Mai and served as Deputy General Manager at Sheraton Lagos Hotel & Towers, the only international five-star hotel in Lagos, Nigeria.

Backed by 23 years of experience, she is confident in Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resorts & Spa’s success.

“Our selected team of associates and their personalised service to our guests as well as the hotel’s stunning location atop the recently completed US$11 million renovation guarantee a win,” she said. For recreation Ursula enjoys the outdoors and plays golf.

www.asiatraveltips.com

The New Phase of Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa Revealed!

Sheraton Maldives Introduces 20 New Ocean Villas & “Ocean Plus”

The Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa has completed their highly anticipated re-launch with the addition of 20 new Ocean Villas located on the eastern side of the idyllic island paradise.  When booking an Ocean Villa, the new all-inclusive “Ocean Plus” adds an immense value for the introductory offer.  Available beginning October 1, 2010, rates start from $499USD per person, per night and valid for travel through December 23, 2010.

The new 20 Ocean Villas, designed by P49 from Thailand, round off the resort’s inventory for a total of 176 rooms.  Their private, contemporary design is highlighted by uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, spacious outdoor living space, including plunge pool, dining area, hammock, outdoor shower and a large garden seating area.  Interiors include the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper bed, a large bathroom with stand alone tub, walk-in closet and more!

The new all-inclusive “Ocean Plus”, only available when booking the new Ocean Villas, enhances the amazing living space by giving the guests the following inclusions:

·       All premium brands of alcohol, beer and liqueurs at Anchorage Bar, excluding  champagne or sparkling wine.

·       Mini Bar – restocked once daily with beer, soft drinks, water and guest’s preferred spirits

·       Buffet breakfast at Feast restaurant

·       Choice of lunch venues (a la carte or buffet): Feast, Sand Coast or In-Villa Dining

·      Dinner in any of our restaurants (a la carte or buffet): Feast, Sand Coast, Baan Thai, Sea Salt or In-Villa Dining

·       Individual BBQs are located on the villa decks with menus available for lunch and/or dinner (not including Chef)

       Male International Airport transfers for arrival and departure with Meet & Greet Airport representative

·      Choice of one 50-minute signature massage at Shine Spa for Sheraton or one Water Sports excursion (select menu) per person, per day

·      Snorkeling equipment for each guest throughout their stay

·      Complimentary internet access in the Ocean Villas or Link@Sheraton

·      Access to the Tennis Court, Sheraton Fitness Centre, all Indoor Games and all non-motorized water sports

·       Welcome Amenities in the villa upon arrival

·      Two bottles of water supplied daily in the Ocean Villas

·      Variety of fresh juices, soft drinks and mineral water at all restaurants and bars

·      Cold towels available at Anchorage Bar, adjacent to the swimming pool

·      Weekly Beach Party with DJ

·      Nightly entertainment provided 5 times a week

·      Activities Calendar provided weekly

·      Telescope for stargazing on Ocean Villa deck, on request basis

In addition to the 20 new Ocean Villas, Sheraton Maldives has introduced the following new features to the island in the last 6 months:

156 Newly Renovated Rooms – Sheraton has completed a $12M (USD) renovation on all room categories. All upgrades, also designed by P49, include a total soft refurbishment, enhanced lighting and fixtures, re-worked floors and bathroom enhancements.

Feast – The new Sheraton branded interactive buffet with live cooking stations.  Guests have the opportunity to sample a variety of cuisines whilst engaging with the chefs who create a delicious range of dishes before their eyes.

Sea Salt – Is Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa’s signature restaurant.  Adjacent to the lagoon, guest enjoy al fresco dining while watching our chefs barbeque the finest meats and seafood to perfection in the modern open kitchen setting.

Sand Coast – The revitalized beachside setting features a casual atmosphere with a new a la carte menu and wide range of light meals influenced from neighbouring regions.  Dining at the water’s edge with your feet in the sand offers the island feel you’ve desired.

Sheraton Adventure Club – The all new complimentary kids club promotes exciting activities and introduces local Maldivian traditions to children ages 4-12 years old.  The young ones can enjoy fun-filled days of beach games, arts & crafts, nature lessons and more!

Anchorage Bar – Nightly entertainment, whether live music or a DJ, shark feeding or the Sunset Ritual, make Anchorage Bar’s updated look the place to be.  It now boasts comfortable day beds and lounges overlooking the Sheraton Maldives’ lagoon.  Enjoy signature cocktails or light snacks while lapping waves and gorgeous sunsets are in the foreground.

Shine Spa for Sheraton – Located on its own private island, Sheraton Maldives was proud to debut the world’s first Shine Spa for Sheraton.  Shine Spa houses 6 treatment rooms with views of the Indian Ocean, Relaxation Pools and a post-treatment Relaxation Room.  Signature treatments are inspired from local influences surrounding the Sheraton Maldives (ocean, beach, flora) while also highlighting modalities from locations along the Silk Route; the Orient, Thailand, India, the Middle East and Mediterranean regions. 

Last but not least, we are proud to introduce Chef Garth Welsh who has taken his creative genius and re-vamped all of the island’s menus since his arrival in May.  Chef Garth, a native Australian, comes to Sheraton Maldives after 2 years at Amanpulo, an award-winning Aman Resort, located in the Philippines.  With 10 years under his belt leading kitchen brigades, his experience has taken him through many of Sydney’s leading restaurants; including Hugo’s & Mu Shu.  Prior to Amanpulo, he spent a year at Fiji’s famed Vatulele Island Resort.

All these major developments, complemented by the welcoming associates of Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, have propelled the pristine island into the picturesque, luxury paradise you dream of when thinking of the Maldives.  Says General Manager, David Martens, “We’re very proud of what we have achieved in a short period of time and as a result Sheraton Maldives has clearly emerged as the leading resort in the North Male Atoll.  We’ve got a few more surprises up our sleeve so if you want to find out what they are, you’ll just have to come and see for yourself.  We look forward to welcoming you!”. 

The new Ocean Villas & “Ocean Plus” are available for bookings beginning October 1, 2010.  Rates start from $499USD per person, per night for travel through December 23, 2010.  Rates do not include airfare and applicable taxes. For more information, please contact your local travel agent or email: sheraton.maladives@sheraton.com or +960 665 0224/5.  www.sheraton.com/maldivesfullmoon.

 

Sheraton Maldives launches Adventure Club and Community Care Programme

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa is debuting two programs to the island that care for both guests and the community.

Sheraton Adventure Club is the branded Kids Club programme which promotes activities and introduces local traditions to the young ones. Parents can enroll children, ages 4-12, free of charge.

There, the children have a fun-filled day of activities including beach games, scavenger hunts, coconut bowling and more. The Sheraton Adventure Club also teaches the children about the local Maldivian culture through traditional music & dance or mini lessons on Dhivehi, the Maldivian language.

Children can also entertain themselves by climbing the jungle gym, discovering the hidden cave, or playing sports games on the Nintendo Wii. There are various schedules from 09.00 – 17.00 daily, so parents can rest assured that their children are in the caring hands of the fully trained staff.

The Community Care Programme educates guests on the importance of preserving the coral in the Maldives and gives the guest the chance to sponsor a coral section to be transplanted in the Sheraton lagoon.

These coral transplant efforts will be monitored by Seamarc to ensure the regeneration of coral in Sheraton’s lagoon in order to enhance the underwater marine life experience.

www.asiatraveltips.com

Winter sun destinations: A tropical tan - for £1,000 or less

The signs are unmistakable: it’s wet and windy, and dark at four, so it must be time to head south and bask in some winter sun. The only problem is, whenever you scour the newspapers for suggestions, it’s always £3,000-a-week luxury hideaways. That’s where our cost-conscious guide comes in: dozens of sunshine breaks, each one under £1,000pp. Cheap, then — but not nasty. The fact is, anyone can find mass-market packages to the sun for less than a grand, especially with prices tumbling this season. What’s not so easy is avoiding the grim concrete all-inclusives and homing in on holidays with charm and character — places that are worth your time as well as your money.



They’re out there, though, and to prove it, here are 44 of ’em, from traditional fincas in the Canaries to barefoot resorts in the Caribbean to fully fledged desert-island idylls in the Maldives. So, pack the T-shirt and sunnies, and get going. You can afford it.
Unless stated, all prices are for a week, per person, based on two sharing and including flights from London. Check with the operator for regional departure options

INDIAN OCEAN
The Indian Ocean ain’t cheap. It can, though, be great value if you time it right and choose carefully. Take Mauritius, home to some of the most highfalutin hotels in the world — Le Touessrok, Royal Palm — and somewhere with a shade more indigenous culture than the more scattered atolls. Six nights at the smallish, coupley Paul & Virginie Hotel, on the north coast, can be had for £799, half-board, if you book by Saturday, with Destinology (0800 634 2866, destinology.co.uk). It’s officially a three-star, but punches above its weight, with a beautiful palm-lined pool, a small but cute beach, a spa, watersports and friendly service.
All very well, but what about the white sand, blue-lagoon idyll that is the Maldives? All that desert-island loveliness sets the benchmark for high-priced winter sun, and it certainly doesn’t come in at less than a grand. Does it?
Certainly does. Kandooma, on South Malé atoll, delivers everything on the checklist — chalk-white beaches, gorgeous shallow lagoon, good snorkelling for adults, safe bathing for kids, spa, pool, classy villas, showers open to the sky, the lot. Rated four-star, it would normally be well over our limit, but a 36% price cut means that, for a November 24 departure, it comes in at £949, B&B, with Hayes & Jarvis (0871 664 0246, www.hayesandjarvis.com).
Another £30 gets you another star and the Sheraton Full Moon Resort and Spa. On its own island, it’s all thatched and low-rise, with not a business centre or conference room in sight — scrub out the corporate logo by the jetty and you’d think it had been created by Robinson Crusoe (after the discovery of air con and desalination plants, mind). A week, departing on December 6, costs £979, B&B, with Kuoni (01306 747008, kuoni.co.uk). One caveat: the food here is pricey, so big eaters might want to stick with Kandooma, above.

a) be counting the shades of grey in a late-November English day and shuddering at the cheerful news that there are just 26 shopping days to Christmas, or
b) lying on the sand at the Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort, in the Maldives. Let me paint the picture: the sand is platinum blonde and squeaks when you walk on it. The sea is the colour of Bombay Sapphire and the sky the same shade as Curaçao. There are no shopping days until Christmas, because the Maldives are Muslim, but the price is pretty festive: the price is £955 with Thomson (0871 231 5595, thomson.co.uk).

Read the full article at timesonline.co.uk

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa tops the competition

Sheraton Maldives Places First in Both Classical and Flair Bartender of the Year Cocktail Competition
Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa is proud to announce that two of their associates have received the top honours at the SIMDI - Bacardi/ Marie Brizzard Classical and Flair Bartender of the Year Cocktail Competition on Tuesday, 6 October 2009. Both Rajandra Joshi and Argus Setiawan, won first place in the Classical & Flair categories respectively. Ruwan Dinesh also received an Honorable Mention in the Classical Category. This marks the first time that the resort and bartenders have entered the competition making this an unforgettable achievement for all.

• Rajandra Joshi - Cinnamon Sunrise, winning cocktail of classical category (Cinnamon stick, Bacardi Gold, Apricod Brandy, Martini Rosso)
• Argus Setiawan - Lady Pick, winning cocktail of flair category (Bacardi, Gallino, Blue Curacao, Fresh Orange Juice) Juggled, tossed, twirled and even danced his way to the top!
• Ruwan Dinesh - Blue Horizon (Bacardi, Blue Curacao, Southern Comfort, Fresh Orange & Honey Melon Juice)

Rajendra and Argus will receive sponsorship to participate in the John White Elite Bar Management course in Singapore, which is conducted by the International Bartender Association. They will also be given an opportunity to take part in the annual Classical & Flair Bartender of the Year (Asia Pacific Region) competition in Singapore
The local event featured a two-day training course on spirits, cocktails and general bar procedures. The competition was held on the last day of the programme, 06 October 2009. The awards ceremony and cocktail party was hosted by Hulehule Island Hotel and attended by General Managers, Food & Beverage Executives and all participants and supporters.
"The whole resort is very proud of Rajendra & Argus. It only highlights how Sheraton provides the best cocktails and entertainment to our guests. The effort they have put in for this competition is highly appreciated," said Brian Segrave, Complex General Manager of Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa and W Retreat & Spa - Maldives. "With the rebranding of Sheraton in December 2008, I believe this also shows how far we have come to achieve the standard that will position Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa one of the best upscale resorts in the Maldives. I would really like to recognize all the effort the team has put in and this is certainly a fascinating evening."
Dining & Entertainment at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa
In the ongoing commitment to providing exceptional guest experience, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa also offers various dining experiences and entertainment options for the guests on top of the 8 distinct restaurants and bars, guests can spend an evening with a special seafood menu, show their talent at the karaoke bar, or listen to live music over a few of their favourite drinks under the stars. For more active options, guests can play volleyball with the management team and have a bon fire beach party, or visit the dance floor while the DJ mixes up disco music with some Maldivian cultural performance.
Reservations at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa can be made via www.sheraton.com/maldivesfullmoon.
etravelblackboardasia.com

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort Opens 40 Island Cottages

The Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa has opened 40 Island Cottages.

“We believe the new category will provide our guests more options and of course a very warm and welcoming atmosphere,” said Brian Segrave, General Manager of Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa. “At Sheraton Maldives, our guests will find a truly home away from home accommodation whilst they are enjoying their once in a life time experience in the Maldives.”

The 40 Island Cottages at Sheraton Maldives are ideal for those wanting extra space and privacy.

Each stand-alone thatched cottage, features the comfortable Sheraton Sweet Sleeper bed, an open-air tropical bathroom, vaulted ceilings for an even greater sense of space, a daybed for lounging as well as a private balcony with spectacular garden view.

The new Island Cottages are in addition to the 55 Beach-Front Cottages the hotel was already selling to travellers.

asiatraveltips.com

First Shine Spa for Sheraton Opens in Maldives

Starwood’s latest spa endeavour, Shine Spa for Sheraton, has been unveiled to the world in the idyllic island paradise of the Maldives.

The Shine Spa for Sheraton at the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa is connected to the resort by an overwater jetty, Shine Spa for Sheraton is housed on its own island. There guests can be pampered with signature treatments that are influenced by local flavors and delivered in one of the spa’s 6 treatment rooms with inspiring Indian Ocean views, Separate Relaxation Pools for male and female guests, stream rooms and a post treatment Relaxation Room.

The new Shine signature treatments are specifically designed with local influences surrounding Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, while also highlighting modalities from locations along the Silk Route.

For example, the Ocean Massage mimics the fluid and flowing motion of waves bringing relaxation and rejuvenation to the body and mind. The Silk Route Collection presents treatments from the Orient, Thailand, India, the Middle East and Mediterranean regions.
“We are very proud to open the world’s first Shine Spa for Sheraton in this unspoiled paradise,” said General Manager Brian Segrave. “From the warm atmosphere to the welcoming people, everything our guests see and feel here was carefully chosen to help them relax, feel pampered and have fun while they are at it.”

The Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa opened its newly rebranded doors in December 2008. Significant enhancements to the resort include a new welcome pavilion and lobby environment, re-designed guest rooms and a revolutionary health and fitness programme.

Sheraton Resorts in the Maldives, Hua Hin and Pattaya help guests stay connected with link @ Sheraton

New “Link@Sheraton experienced with Microsoft,” A Virtual Lobby Lounge Offers Wi-Fi, Computers, Webcams and More

Guests of Sheraton Resorts in Maldives, Hua Hin and Pattaya, can now stay connected with instant access to information and technology for work, leisure and social networking with the properties’ new signature hotel offering: the “Link@SheratonSM experienced with Microsoft®.” This unique virtual and physical lobby lounge space enables guests to work, relax and remain connected with friends and family during their travels.

The Link@Sheraton is designed to serve the needs of Sheraton’s core guests who are social individuals seeking to balance work and play while also sharing the travel experience with each other. Designed as a social destination, the Link@Sheraton invites guests to interact with each other while they check their email, research local attractions using free Wi-Fi and Internet-enabled computer stations. A key feature of the Link@Sheraton experience is Microsoft branded webcams, allowing guests of all ages to easily email video postcards back home. The Link@Sheraton experience also features flat screen televisions, daily newspapers and through its relationship with Microsoft, the new “Link@Sheraton experienced with Microsoft” will offer Microsoft computer terminals and Internet access points running Microsoft products.

“Our guests are intent on making the most of their travels and we’re confident this new partnership with Microsoft will enable Sheraton to provide them with the products, services and tools to keep them connected to what matters most while on the road,” said Vincent Ong, Brand Director for Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, Asia Pacific. “The Link reflects Sheraton's commitment to deliver popular, unique and unexpected offerings to our guests and is an exciting pillar of Sheraton’s comprehensive effort to further differentiate our iconic brand.”

Today’s traveler is part of a connected digital community, with instant access to information and technology for work, entertainment and social networking. With ‘Link @ Sheraton experienced with Microsoft,’ Sheraton and Microsoft are helping forge the convergence of the digital lifestyle and work-style in the experiences offered to this new breed of guest.

To unveil the new Link@Sheraton, the three Sheraton resorts will be organizing various events to officially introduce it to the media, customers and in-house guests.

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa and Sheraton Pattaya Resort are the newest three of more than 300 Sheraton properties around the world that feature The Link@Sheraton. Under the Microsoft agreement, Sheraton will continue to roll out the co-branded “Link @ Sheraton experienced with Microsoft” at its entire portfolio of properties worldwide throughout 2009. The Link@Sheraton is just one of the significant enhancements Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa is currently implementing to improve the guest experience, including a new lobby environment, re-designed guest room and a revolutionary new health and fitness program.

Helping guests make connections at more than 400 hotels in 75 countries around the world, Sheraton is enhancing its iconic brand while continuing its aggressive international expansion by adding 54 hotels and 20,000 guestrooms by 2009. Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with approximately 900 properties in more than 100 countries and 155,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, and the recently launched AloftSM, and ElementSM. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.

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Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort launches Promotion

The Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa has launched a promotion which offers nightly accommodation, daily breakfast, and complimentary dinner.

To help make the holiday even more memorable, the promotion includes an exclusive Sunset Fishing Trip and the opportunity to have your freshly caught fish prepared as a tantalizing meal by the resort' creative F&B team (for a small fee). Rate starts from US$560++ from December 1, 2008 and just US$375 ++ from May 1, 2009 for a Beach Front Deluxe Room.

The promotion is valid until August 31, 2009, and guests must book a minimum of 7 consecutive nights to avail the deal. Terms and conditions apply. To be re-branded as the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon on December 1, 2008, the resort enjoys a premium location on its own private island, Furanafushi in the North Malé Atoll, just a short speedboat ride from The Malé International Airport.