The ultimate Maldivian escape at RAAYA by Atmosphere

25 June 2024

Debuting in the Maldives in the summer of 2023, RAAYA by Atmosphere is a new addition to the dynamic Atmosphere Core group, which already boasts eight beloved resorts in the Maldives and plans to expand into India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bhutan. Grounded in its 'Joy of Giving' philosophy of anticipating guests’ every need, Atmosphere Core resorts embody local spirit and celebrate each location's unique story through distinctive design, stunning natural settings, traditional hospitality rituals, and local cuisine.

The ultimate Maldivian escape at RAAYA by Atmosphere

Whether you’re a couple, friends, or a family, RAAYA by Atmosphere offers a castaway adventure blending indulgence and relaxation with immersive nature exploration and outdoor activities. Enjoy snorkelling, windsurfing, strolling along the mangrove walkway, or soaking in the stunning vistas from the watchtower viewpoint. Participate in yoga sessions on the beach or in the dedicated open-air pavilion surrounded by lush tropical forest, the perfect prelude to a treatment at the ELENA spa and wellness centre.

Some of RAAYA’s 167 beach and overwater villas, featuring uncluttered décor in soothing colours, come with private plunge pools. These include two-bedroom family beach villas, as well as the exclusive four-person retreats of the RAAYA Residences. The generous in-villa minibars are replenished daily with a selection of wines, beers, soft drinks, and snacks.

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to dining, with the opportunity to sample a new venue every day. Among them, RAAYA Life offers limitless buffets featuring Asian, European, Arabic, and Maldivian cuisines. Seb’s Shack, a rustic beachside eatery named after a fictional adventurer and artist said to have washed up on the island, provides light eats and a laid-back surfer vibe. Poolside Mizaj serves Middle Eastern fine dining, while Ampersand, with its beachfront cabanas and rooftop bar, is the place for pan-Asian delights complemented by handcrafted cocktails.

You can also indulge in private bespoke dining experiences all over the island, while young guests adore the roaming bus dispensing ice creams, drinks, and snacks. Kids also love the complimentary Discovery Den club, which offers supervised arts and crafts, nature explorations, zip-lining, and trampolining. Additionally, there are weekly guided adventures in search of the legendary Seb.

The relaxation begins as soon as you arrive in the Maldives. The RAAYA team will escort you from Velana International Airport to their complimentary lounge in the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal. Here, you can freshen up, enjoy drinks and snacks, and use the Wi-Fi (kids have their own playroom) before your thrilling 45-minute seaplane journey to RAAYA. Upon arrival at the resort, you’ll be greeted by boduberu drummers on the island jetty and offered a flute of chilled champagne in the arrivals lounge.

All of this is included in the exclusive RAAYA Plan, which encompasses global cuisine at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, premium drinks including unlimited cocktails, mocktails, and signature drinks. The plan also includes spa and wellness therapies (one 45-minute treatment per 4- to 7-night stay, two per 8- to 11-night stay, and three per 12- to 15-night stay), aquatic experiences, and curated artistic interludes.

In addition to complimentary snorkelling gear throughout your holiday and one snorkelling excursion daily to nearby sites, you can enjoy (per person per stay) one traditional sunset fishing excursion, one sunset cruise, one complimentary guided mangrove discovery walk, and a wooden dhoni-building workshop at the Artists’ Zone. You also get unlimited use of the Outdoor Activity Zone, which features mini golf, Padel tennis, a football ground, beach volleyball, and a skate-park circuit.

To book your Maldives holiday at RAAYA by Atmosphere, call your Travel Counsellor today.

Why Mare Ayia Napa Is a dream for food lovers

02 July 2026

For many travellers, great food is what turns a good holiday into a memorable one, and Mare Ayia Napa has made dining one of the standout parts of the experience. Set on Cyprus' south-east coast, just minutes from Cape Greco National Forest Park and the lively centre of Ayia Napa, this beachfront resort pairs relaxed Mediterranean living with an impressive variety of places to eat and drink. With eight restaurants, five bars, international branded beverages, and an all-inclusive package that goes well beyond the expected, there's always something different to look forward to. Even your arrival feels considered, thanks to a stocked mini fridge waiting in your room.

Why California is the perfect USA holiday for every type of traveller

26 June 2026

California has a habit of exceeding expectations. Many people picture the Hollywood Sign, the Golden Gate Bridge, or palm-lined beaches, but there's far more to the Golden State than its famous landmarks. Stretching for almost 900 miles along the Pacific Coast, California is one of the most diverse destinations in the USA. Within a single trip, you can drive spectacular coastal roads, hike through ancient forests, sip wine in world-famous vineyards, visit iconic cities, or spend time in national parks that feel a world away from everyday life.

Travel Counsellors explore the best of New Zealand

22 June 2026

New Zealand packs an extraordinary amount into a relatively small corner of the world. From island vineyards and geothermal landscapes to glacier-fed lakes and dramatic alpine scenery, every region feels different from the last. On a recent trip, some of our Travel Counsellors travelled from Auckland in the North Island to Lake Tekapo in the South Island, experiencing some of the country's most iconic sights and gaining first-hand insight into what makes a journey through Aotearoa so special.