Planning ahead never looked so good. A fresh look at the Maldives for 2027, from easter escapes to extraordinary villas made for sharing, and the travel inspiring the year ahead.
As families plan ahead for 2027, the Maldives is proving there is far more to the destination than honeymoon seclusion. From expansive private villas and exceptional kids’ clubs to Easter programmes, festive celebrations and generation-spanning experiences, this month’s edit showcases a more sociable side of the Indian Ocean.
Elsewhere, discover a star-studded way to welcome 2027, a Michelin-starred dining makeover in Venice and an exciting update to a much-loved luxury resort experience.
As the crown jewel of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, the three-bedroom John Jacob Astor Estate pays fitting tribute to the visionary behind one of hospitality’s most enduring luxury legacies. This extraordinary residence combines soaring ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glass doors and expansive indoor-outdoor living spaces designed for effortless island living with loved ones.
Each bedroom feels quietly self-contained, complete with a furnished terrace, plunge pool and whirlpool overlooking the Indian Ocean. Ideal for multi-generational stays, the estate also features a formal dining room serviced by a show kitchen and butler pantry, alongside a private home theatre, dedicated fitness room and the signature St. Regis Butler Service.
Beyond the John Jacob Astor Estate, the resort’s expansive Two-Bedroom Villas provide an equally enticing option for families and friends, complete with private transfers upon arrival, serene pools, signature St. Regis Butler Service, and the feeling of having your own secluded corner of the Maldives.
The overwater Ocean Villa opens directly onto the lagoon, while the aptly named Sunset Villa pairs the same spacious layout with an impeccable backdrop for evening sundowners. For those who prefer their toes in the sand, the Knickerbocker and Cesar Balsa Villas place powder-soft shores and the Indian Ocean quite literally on the doorstep.
Explore this hotelWhether spotting colourful marine life, exploring the island by bicycle, setting sail across the atoll at sunset or discovering new passions through special events and expert-led activities, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands excels at creating moments for every generation. And when younger guests are ready for adventures of their own, the Ritz Kids programme awaits.
Designed for children aged 4 to 12, it brings together creativity, culture and outdoor exploration through a programme inspired by four key pillars: land, water, environmental responsibility and culture. From arts and crafts to cooking classes and sports, all based within an impressive indoor-outdoor clubhouse, it ensures younger travellers are every bit as engaged as the adults.
Framed by the turquoise hues of the North Ari Atoll, the magic of Easter at W Maldives takes on a distinctly island-inspired spirit, replacing traditional springtime rituals with morning turtle spotting on the thriving house reef, island hopping on HORIZON – the resort’s private yacht, and blissful sun-drenched days.
Previous festivities have included egg hunts brimming with surprises and hands-on painting and creative workshops for little ones, alongside adrenaline-fuelled kayak races across the lagoon for those seeking a little friendly competition.
As the day unfolds, families come together for memorable dining moments, including an Easter buffet where classic favourites are reimagined with modern flair, live cooking stations and signature specialities. It’s a fitting reflection of life at W Maldives – playful, social and energetic, with enough grown-up polish to keep the island feeling stylish as well as fun.
ORO, the Michelin-starred restaurant at Hotel Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel, Venice, has entered an exciting new chapter. Reimagined by renowned New York architect Peter Marino, whose work spans some of the world’s most iconic luxury brands, including Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton and Bvlgari, the restaurant draws on the glamour of Venice’s 1950s and 1960s Art Biennales and the carefree yet timeless spirit of La Dolce Vita. Perched on Giudecca Island with uninterrupted views across the Venetian lagoon, every detail celebrates the city’s enduring romance and cultural heritage.
At the helm of the kitchen, Chef Vania Ghedini combines the finest ingredients of the Veneto region with nods to her roots in Emilia-Romagna and the influence of her grandparents’ bakery, where her love of exceptional ingredients first began. Her cooking is deeply personal, with dishes shaped by her experiences in Morocco, including the aromas she remembers from the time she spent there while expecting her son.
Few festive settings rival One&Only Reethi Rah, where barefoot luxury meets contemporary glamour in the heart of the Maldives. This year, celebrations reach new heights as Jessie J headlines the resort’s New Year’s Eve festivities, bringing her powerhouse vocals and infectious energy to the island on 31 December 2026.
From sunset cocktails by the beach to an elegant gala dinner and a live performance featuring hits including Price Tag, Domino and Bang Bang, guests can look forward to a spectacular celebration in one of the Maldives’ most coveted island settings as the new year begins in style.
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One of the hallmarks of the Ikos experience has received a stylish new makeover. Extended to 2027, guests can now take to the road in the all-electric MINI Countryman as part of the Ikos Local Drive Adventure, offering the freedom to uncover the surrounding region at their own pace, from secluded coves and coastal viewpoints to authentic local towns.
Included for one day as part of the resort stay, or two days for those staying in the Deluxe Collection, the experience reflects Ikos’ commitment to authentic local discovery while maintaining the comfort and effortless luxury for which the brand is known. Bringing together innovation, flexibility and responsible travel, the new MINI Countryman adds a fresh sense of adventure to one of Ikos’ most loved inclusions.
Explore Ikos ResortsWhen we think about restorative holidays – getaways brimming with relaxation – the image that springs to mind is probably filled with lounging on sunbeds in the summer heat, waves lapping in the distance. But restful trips don’t always need to be sun drenched; sometimes wintry winds and a backdrop of snow are the ideal setting for a wellness reset.
Sneak off for a week of warmth in Spain's sunniest spots or travel further afield for action-packed family adventures in South Africa and the Caribbean. Whatever takes your fancy, we’ve curated our top picks that provide some much needed respite in the most family-friendly destinations during October Half Term.
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On a holiday usually ruled by squeals of speed-induced joy, let the moments of calm and connection do the talking.
