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CCR

7 Must-Try Bucket List Experiences for Group Travels to the Maldives

July 6, 2018
Bucket List: Group Travel

Travel companions can be loved ones, partners, family, friends or even a combination of all. Making plans to travel as a group of friends and family can be tedious all around, from varying tastes and preferences down to the different ideas of the perfect holiday. Crown & Champa Resorts’ collection of award-winning Resorts in the Maldives offers the unique opportunity to fine-tune your holiday and cater to a wide range of experiences.

 

Read our 7 must-try bucket list experiences for group travel, whether you’re an adventure-seeker or simply enjoy relaxing on the idyllic white, soft sandy beaches of the Maldives Islands.

 

Hurawalhi Snorkeling

Photographs by Steve, diving instructor.

 

  1. Fluoro Snorkeling

Also known as fluorescent snorkeling, Fluoro Snorkeling is one of Hurawalhi Island Resort’s Bucket List experiences, where you can expect to see the reef in a whole new light using specialised equipment such as the yellow mask filter and a blue light torch available at the ProDivers Center. From fluorescing anemones, shrimps and feather stars to brain corals and certain fish species, the reef and many of its critters glow in stunning neon-bright colors at night.

 

  1. Luxury Sailing

At Komandoo Island Resort & Spa, join a Sailing Excursion and spend a day on the surreal waters of Lhaviyani Atoll. Cruise through calm waters and turquoise lagoons whilst discovering untouched reefs with abundant marine life. One of the highlights of the trip is the notorious shipwreck at Felivaru. The talented chef will prepare an extravagant lunch on-board whilst anchoring in the lagoon of an uninhabited island. After lunch explore the beach and if you are lucky, grab the chance to swim with mantas and the famous turtles of the Atoll.

 

Kuredu White Night Party

Kuredu White Night Party

 

  1. Party on an Island

Dance the night away at Kuredu Island Resort & Spa’s White Night Party and experience the true tropical Island feeling. “No shoes, no news” is the motto, where you can enjoy dancing on the soft white sand along to the latest by our renowned DJ. Guests, first time visits and repeaters alike consider this event a must-try while on the Island. Don’t forget to bring your all-white attire.

 

  1. Island Hopping

Take the group out to explore more than one Island in the Maldives while on holiday at Meeru Island Resort & Spa. Visit 3 on an Island Hopping Excursion, including a typical local fishing island, a resort island and a shopping island. You will enjoy a delectable BBQ lunch in a Local Island and have time to snorkel and swim. Don’t forget to bring US$ cash along to shop for locally made and handcrafted souvenirs to take back home with you.

 

  1. Cruising at Sunset

Sail across the stunning Indian Ocean at sunset and enjoy breathtaking views of the crimson sky at Veligandu Island Resort & Spa. The Sunset ‘Punch’ Lucky Dolphin Cruise departs in the late afternoon on a traditional Dhoni, sailing through the North Ari Atoll of the Maldives and offering you the chance to photograph a beautiful tropical sunset with a glass of special punch in hand. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to watch the dolphins play!

 

Veligandu Sunset Cruise

Veligandu Sunset Cruise

 

  1. Discover the Marine Life

Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa’s Ocean Discovery Full-Day Excursion is a must for all snorkeling enthusiasts! This full day excursion will take you to the 2 most famous snorkeling spots in the Maldives: Manta Point and Whale Shark Point (not guaranteed to spot them on every excursion). To top off your snorkeling experience, you will also visit popular reefs in this area to see as many different sea creatures in one day and enjoy a delicious lunch on board.

 

  1. Local Guided Tours

For a local experience like no other, book a Sightseeing Excursion around Male’ City, the Capital of the Maldives, with Champa Central Hotel. The modern and centrally located hotel provides a prime location for you to explore the popular tourist attractions with your own guide, including the National Museum on Chandhanee Magu and the Old Friday Mosque on Medhuziyaarai Magu. The Artificial Beach is just 500 meters from the Hotel.

 

Choose the best collection of Resorts in the Maldives and tailor your group travel experience and unforgettable holiday in tropical paradise!

 

Visit www.crownandchamparesorts.com

A Guide to Destination Dining in the Maldives

June 28, 2018
Kuredu Beach Dinner

The Maldives Islands are considered one of the most romantic destinations in the world for the plethora of romantic ways to spend an evening with your loved one in tropical paradise. Explore the simple guide to unique destination dining experiences in the Maldives and enjoy the ultimate combination of tranquility, culinary expertise and exceptional service with Crown & Champa Resorts.

 

On the Beach

Experience a wonderful sense of the world under your feet, sand between your toes and stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Meeru Island Resort & Spa, Komandoo Island Resort & Spa and Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa offer an intimate and private candlelight dinner on the beach underneath a starlit sky.

 

With a Veli Dinner from Kuredu Island Resort & Spa and Veligandu Island Resort & Spa, a decorated sandy table and sandy chair are dug into soft and white sand to provide the most romantic venue, complete with scenic views of paradise and a divine menu to enjoy.

 

Komandoo Beach Dinner

 

Out at Sea

Take sailing to the next level with the flair of luxury at Hurawalhi Island Resort and through the glorious Indian Ocean with your loved one. Enjoy the serenity, peacefulness and romance that draws lovebirds to this heavenly piece of paradise.

 

What better way to stargaze than on a cruise with that special someone in the middle of the ocean? Spend the evening together at Veligandu under a beautiful sky full of stars with a glass of sparkling wine and canapés.

 

Luxury Sailing Maldives

 

Under the Sea

Hurawalhi’s spectacular 5.8 Undersea Restaurant is the world’s largest, all-glass underwater restaurant and offers one-of-a-kind romantic dining experience. Guests enjoy a multi-course tasting extravaganza of Haute cuisine, garnished with a state-of-the-art location 5.8 meters below the lagoon.

 

Underwater Restaurant Maldives

 

Private Luxuries

Spend the morning in bed and relish the luxuries of a delicious Champagne Breakfast, brought to your Villa. Later, indulge in a romantic private dinner on your porch or terrace and enjoy the pristine views of paradise with your loved one.

 

Have your own, secluded Island Picnic surrounded by soft white sandy beach and stunning turquoise lagoon to snorkel and swim around, be it Dream Island, Madivaru Island or a special Robinson Crusoe Excursion.

 

Private Island Picnic Maldives

 

Enjoy the privacy and intimacy of a secluded, peaceful, natural setting in the Maldives with Crown & Champa Resorts.

 

Click on each Resort name to book your next holiday and find out more information about the unique destination dining experiences in paradise.

5 Tips to Holistic Wellness: On Holiday and At Home

June 20, 2018
Holistic Wellness and Yoga Maldives

In a constantly changing and challenging world, it’s increasingly difficult to live authentically, peacefully and happy. Increasing numbers of burnout and other stress symptoms are alarming. As Renate Hermes, certified Wellness & Transformation Coach, Group Spa Director and Co-Owner of Duniye Spa Group Maldives, says:

 

“Life is not a straight line, but a wonderful meandering discovery of that powerful place within”

 

What a better place to be to start that peaceful discovery than in our beautiful islands.

Time away, to an Island far away from the busy life does wonders for the soul, and so does day-to-day activities that enhance mindfulness such as yoga and meditation. Focusing on Wellness and the various ways to reconnect with yourself, the present moment and simple techniques to reinvigorate your sense of wonder, Crown & Champa Resorts and the Duniye Spa Group offer 5 Tips to Holistic Wellness while on holiday, as well as in the comfort of your own home and daily routine.

 

Kuredu Water Bottles

 

Tip #5: Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is important in maintaining your wellbeing on a day-to-day level. 70% of the body is made up of water, which keeps the muscles and joints functioning, the brain protected, boosts your immune health, digestion, and even mood.

 

On Holiday

Each of the Crown & Champa Resorts offers respective amounts of complimentary water in reusable glass bottles per day, per room to keep you hydrated while on holiday in the Maldives. Purchase a unique and branded water bottle from the Gift Shops to carry with you around the Island.

At Home

Set a goal for your daily amount of water intake and stick to it throughout the day, be it at the office with a special water bottle or at home, in between meals and snacks. Setting reminders or placing the water bottle where most visible can help keep you on track and hydrated each day.

 

Tropical Island Retreat Maldives

 

Tip #4: Take Time to Unplug

“Unplugging” from the Internet promotes, more than most in this electronic-era, mindfulness of the present moment. It allows you to pause, take in life as it happens and importantly, helps you develop an acute awareness of your own thoughts and feelings.

 

On Holiday

Some of our Resorts actively promote “unplugging” to appreciate the idyllic destination, such as no-WiFi Zones that allow guests to interact in person. Other ways include a variety of Duniye Spa treatments and rituals, specifically designed to reconnect your body, mind and soul, including Yoga, Meditation, Reiki and Sound Healing.

At Home

Choose a specific time and duration of the day to intentionally unplug and put away all electronic devices. This could be an hour before you start your day, allowing you to set the tone for your day or an hour before you sleep, allowing you to recap on your day, both promoting mindfulness.

 

Healthy Eating Maldives

 

Tip #3: Mind What You Eat

Minding what you eat goes beyond diets. It includes learning the origin of the produce you eat, as well as really tasting the various flavor combinations in a meal. This promotes an awareness of your body and the “fuel” it needs to function in a busy world while highlighting what to increase or decrease.

 

On Holiday

Our Resorts feature organic gardens, where fresh produce is grown and incorporated into the meals served at Buffets and a la carte Restaurants. Guests can participate in an Island Tour to learn how the produce is grown and harvested at each Resort. For specifically vegetarian and gluten-free preferences, the Resorts offer clearly marked stations and labels with delicious cuisine to select from.

At Home

Keep an eye on your organic and non-organic produce, as well as your processed and non-processed goods. Try to include as much plants to meals as possible, as these contain an array of enzymes, vitamins and minerals. A little known secret is the benefits of the Indian herb, Turmeric. Used as a supplement, researchers have found that Turmeric can help restore memory, decrease inflammation and lower blood pressure among many other benefits.

 

Fun things to do in Maldives

 

Tip #2: Move the Body Often

Sitting at your desk all day can decrease your blood flow and energy levels, cause back and hip problems and lowers the production of healthy antioxidants. Exercise, including regular stretching, promotes detoxification, oxygenates your cells and keeps your body alive.

 

On Holiday

Whether you prefer a stroll around the Island after meals, a workout with a view, or adventure sports, Crown & Champa Resorts offers a variety of activities to keep your body alive, including Nature Walks, Bicycle Rentals, fantastic Snorkeling and Diving, as well as Water Sports and fully equipped Fitness Centers.

At Home

Opt for a walk around the office building during your lunch break, or choose the staircase instead of the elevator to keep your body moving. The brief walks to your colleagues’ desk across the hall are just as helpful in keeping your body oxygenated and blood circulation flowing.

 

 

Tip #1: Finding a Healthy Balance

The key to incorporating these for holistic wellness is to find the ideal balance for your lifestyle and wellness needs. Be it at home or on a well-deserved holiday, a healthy balance promotes inner and outer wellbeing, mindfulness, healthier relationships with loved ones and productivity.

 

On Holiday

Striking the right balance on holiday includes choosing the right holiday package for your needs. Our Resorts offer options for a seamless tropical vacation in paradise such as the Full Board and All Inclusive Plus plans to cater to your requirements, where the All Inclusive Plus Plan includes a range of activities to enjoy throughout your stay and keep you active. Still, the Islands certainly provide the ideal atmosphere to relax and unwind, while you take in nature at it’s best.

At Home

With mindfulness and an awareness of what your body, mind and soul needs as key ingredients, day-to-day tasks can be prioritized, filtered to provide more meaning and wellness. This includes social interactions, work projects; personal health and fitness routines; and meaningful relationships with loved ones.

 

 

Choose from the best Resorts in the Maldives for your next retreat from the busy world. Choose Crown & Champa Resorts.

 

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Secrets to Successful Human Resource Management

May 4, 2018

Recruiting and retaining skilled employees is an essential part of the Hospitality Industry, so much so that Resorts & Hotels invest most of their resources on HR Departments to find the right talent and ensure existing employees are well cared for.

 

Liezette S. Robles, Human Resource Manager for award-winning Crown & Champa Resorts (CCR) has been with the group for over 7 years and offers insightful secrets to success in Human Resources in the Maldives.

 

Born and raised in Manila, Philippines, Liezette holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of the City of Manila (Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila). She has extensive experience in the Human Resources Departments of various Resorts & Hotels, including the start of her career at El Nido Resorts in Makati, Philippines in 1995; La Cigale Hotel in Doha, Qatar in 2008; and then joining Crown & Champa Resorts in 2010.

 

The extensive experience provides keen insight into the changes in Human Resources, especially in the Hospitality industry and in the Maldives. “A lot has changed and improved in the recruitment process. Policies and procedures were not followed as strictly as they should have and often no standard forms were established,” she adds.

 

Over the years, CCR has only further grown as a leading group in the Travel & Hospitality Industry of the Maldives. The need to stay up-to-date with policies, regulations and procedures is crucial to a seamless HR Department and to help in finding the right talent.

 

In her advise to HR Managers, Recruiters and companies looking to improve their employee retention and general wellness of employees, Liezette lists the following:

 

  1. Build a good network with other Resorts and trusted recruitment agencies.
  2. Follow standard procedures and policies in the recruitment process.
  3. Use interviews as a more personal and in-depth approach to selecting candidates.
  4. Foster an open-door corporate culture that encourages employees to communicate.
  5. Walk-the-talk and follow what you implement.

 

CCR treats its employees as a family. Most of the long serving employees feel that they have found a second home in CCR. The open door policy is also a big advantage. Anyone can speak directly to the CEO or even the Owners. That makes the staff feel heard, valued, important and mostly, that they belong.

 

Crown & Champa Resorts’ core values are the foundation of HR Departmental goals, resulting in some of the top reasons why CCR employees are happy to work within the group. These values also provide for the health, educational, lifestyle and professional wellbeing of employees, as well as the overall growth of the group.

 

Start making improvements within your own department. Read the 5 common hiring mistakes and how to fix them, for successful recruitment and essentially, higher employee retention and employee wellness.

Next Up: Arabian Travel Market 2018 in Dubai

April 18, 2018

Leading Resorts group, Crown & Champa Resorts will be attending the annual Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, from April 22 to 25, 2018. The global event, held at Dubai International Exhibition and Convention Centre is celebrating its 25th year – a notable milestone.

 

ATM first opened its doors in 1994 at the Dubai World Trade Centre with 52 nations, 300 exhibitors and 7,000 trade visitors. 25 years later, the exhibition is considered the benchmark for the Middle Eastern and North African tourism, which facilitates US$2,5 billion in industry deals, and attracts 2,500 exhibitors from 153 countries and over 28,000 influential visitors.

 

The theme this year is Responsible Tourism and certainly a topic of major importance to the Travel & Hospitality Industry, and to destinations around the world. In line with the values and ethos of the company, Crown & Champa Resorts is committed to operating in accordance with the best possible standards, in a responsible and sustainable manner.

 

Read the Crown & Champa Resorts Corporate Sustainability Report here »

 

“It is important that hoteliers, operators, local communities and tourists alike, take responsibility to ensure tourism becomes more sustainable.” – Simon Press, Senior Exhibition Director, Arabian Travel Market.

 

Visit the Crown & Champa Resorts stand number AS2350, together with the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC).