With a hotel portfolio that includes;the private and exclusive Coco Privé Kuda Hithi, the luxury resort Coco Bodu Hithi and the environmentally conscious escape Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, Armand Chaudhary, chief operating officer of the group,knows a thing of two about hospitality. He is always on hand to make sure guests get the most out of their trip and here are FOUR top tips that he recommends when inthe Maldives.
Make a Splash Underwater…
An abundant and vivacious underwater scene has put the Maldives on the map as one of the world’s best snorkelling and diving destinations. A range of diving companies offer fantastic ways to explore the coral gardens and underwater caves, taking in the vast array of underwater species including Reef Manta Rays, Scalloped Hammerhead Sharks and Mammoth Whales.
There is a wealth of international diving schools available in the Maldives which offer PADI and SSI courses, as well as a host of water-based activities for those looking to explore the turquoise waters in other ways including snorkelling, speedboat rides, canoeing, windsurfing and water-skiing.
Meet a Baby Sea Turtle…
The Maldives is a world-renowned hotspot for Sea Turtle sightings and is home to five of the seven species, with the endangered Green Sea Turtles and Hawksbill Turtles the most commonly spotted.
This year, the marine biologists at Coco Collection have observed record-breaking Green Sea Turtle nesting activity along the island’s beaches and on its private picnic island, Hembhadhoo, with more nests still to hatch. Coco Collection’s partnership with sea turtle conservation group, The Olive Ridley Project invites guests to attend educational presentations where they can learn more about their local reptile neighbours.
Learn the Bodu Beru…
Introduced centuries ago by Indian Ocean sailors, the Bodu Beru is a celebration of local indigenous music and dance. Performances are traditionally made up of approximately 20 dancers who sing, dance and drum to vibrant, rhythmic beats.
Every Friday, Coco Collection arranges themed Maldivian nights at Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu so guests can sample local authentic dishes, before being entertained by colourful Bodu Beru performances, where they can sit back and relax or perhaps learn a move or two.
Head to a Star-Lit Alfresco Cinema…
With its open clear skies and isolated setting which minimises the threat of light pollution, the Maldives offers one of the most memorable spots for stargazing.It is also home to the natural phenomenon of bioluminescent plankton, causing the warm ocean waters to light up under the starry night’s sky.
Find out more about Armand and the Coco Collection here |www.cococollection.com
For information on the Maldives click here