PRESS KIT Content Overview 2 About Addu Atoll 3 Villas 4

PRESS KIT
Content
Overview
2
About Addu Atoll
3
Villas
4
Restaurants and Bars
10
Dine by Design
14
CHI, The Spa
16
Recreation
17
Eco Centre
18
Wedding Blessing Ceremony
19
Corporate Social Responsibility
20
Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts
23
Resort Personalities
24
Contact Persons
25
Malé Office, H.Thuniya, 4th floor, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Malé 20066, Republic of Maldives
Tel: (960) 689 7888 Fax: (960) 689 7999
Email: [email protected] Website: www.shangri-la.com
OVERVIEW
The Maldives is paradise, where the view shifts as easily as the
sands between the toes and where the sounds of aquatic bliss
carry on the trade winds. It is not just the magic of sight and
sound. The Maldives is about touch too, like the gentle caress
of warm waves, the pleasant tickle of exotic fish and the
embrace of warm evening breezes.
The Maldives, like sapphire and emerald earrings off the
colourful face of South Asia, is heaven, and a luxury resort has
evolved in a special corner of this island paradise.
Located south of the equator on Villingili Island, on the
southernmost tip of Addu Atoll, Shangri-La's Villingili Resort
and Spa, Maldives offers guests a stylish and luxurious experience in a spacious and
boutique-style environment. As one of the best-equipped luxury resorts in the Maldives,
guests can enjoy a range of spa and leisure activities and an array of exciting dining and
entertainment facilities. There are over six kilometres of picturesque coastline to enjoy, with
nearly two kilometres of beautiful white sandy beach. There are lagoon beaches on the
western shore of the island and a surf beach on the eastern side.
From private ocean retreats to tropical tree house villas – unique to the Maldives – with
panoramic views, accommodation is available in seven distinct styles, each equipped with an
iPod docking station and other luxurious amenities.
The sensory pleasures of eating and drinking are well catered for on the resort. Dr. Ali’s
leads the restaurant selection with three distinctive living rooms that focus on fine cuisine
from the Indian Ocean, the South China Sea and the Arabian Gulf. Those seeking an
experience with a difference are invited to take a cruise on a luxury yacht for lunch on the
equator.
CHI, The Spa offers innovative therapies in a secluded sanctuary and the unique yoga
pavilion overlooking the Indian Ocean. The energetic can take a speedboat to Gan Island and
explore by bicycle the five neighbouring islands connected by a 17-kilometre road. There is
excellent snorkelling at the resort’s house reef and snorkelling gardens close to the shoreline
for less experienced swimmers.
Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives is a 70-minute flight from Malé, which has
around-the-clock flights from the domestic airport and is an eight-minute boat ride from Gan
International Airport on Addu Atoll.
ABOUT ADDU ATOLL
The brightest gem in the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean, Villingili Island is a haven for
those seeking their own Shangri-La.
Nestled in the sheltered waters of the southernmost atoll in the archipelago of the Republic of
Maldives is Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives. This is the first luxury resort
in Addu Atoll (also known as Seenu Atoll). Addu is located approximately 478 kilometres
south of the Maldivian capital, Malé.
Comprising seven inhabited and about 20 uninhabited islands, Addu Atoll extends the islands
of the Maldives to the southern hemisphere, crossing the equator, with Shangri-La's Villingili
Resort and Spa, Maldives being the first luxury resort in this location. The heart-shaped atoll
is about 18 kilometres wide and 15 kilometres long. The atoll has some of the biggest islands
in the Maldives and has a stunning coral reef formation that is the largest in the country.
Villingili is the southernmost island in the atoll. On the western side of the atoll, causeways
connect the islands of Gan, Feydhoo, Maradhoo-Feydhoo, Maradhoo and Hithadhoo, making
this the largest land mass in the country and the only other region of the Maldives other than
Male to have road traffic. Unspoiled Maldivian villages and local coffee shops along this
17-kilometre route provide an authentic setting to explore the fascinating lifestyle and culture
of the real Maldives.
Historically, Addu Atoll was a major military base for the British Army until the Maldives
gained its independence in 1965. The islands of Addu Atoll were home to British soldiers
serving in the British Army for many years. The British airbase on Gan during the second
world war, and later from 1956 to 1976, left behind a concrete runway, an industrial estate, a
holiday village and a sizeable local population educated in English as a result of working for
the Royal Air Force.
VILLAS
Shangri-La's Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives offers a total of 132 villas. From private
ocean retreats to tropical tree houses with panoramic views, resort accommodation features
seven distinct different styles of luxurious villas. The villas are a minimum of 133 square
metres in size, while the two presidential villas measure up to 957 square metres.
Categories
Pool Villa
Deluxe Pool Villas
Beach Villa
Water Villas
Ocean View Villas
Tree House Villas
Two-Bedroom Beach Villas
Villa Muthee
Villa Laalu
Villas
15
16
13
60
8
8
10
1
1
Area (sq m)
133
189
189
166
218
231
224
570
957
All villas feature both indoor and outdoor showers, luxurious oval bath tubs and spacious,
exquisitely designed silver Jali influenced “his and hers” vanity counters with plenty of space
for guests to place their personal items.
Additionally, each villa is equipped with 40-inch flat-screen televisions recessed in the wall,
Bose DVD players, an iPod docking station plus an espresso coffee machine. The rooms are
luxuriously infused with elements of the Middle East and touches of India and a serene mood
emanates throughout. They are decorated with warm, earthy toned fabrics finished in
soothing turquoise with silver Jali accessories.
Each villa has a contemporary Asian design combining traditional and modern elements and
textured stone walls mixed with white-scraped timber finish. All the furniture is
custom-made and selected to complement the villa’s interior and artworks.
Pool Villas
Surrounded by lush forest and views of the ocean
through tropical foliage, pool villa guests can be
forgiven for thinking they are happily marooned in a
forest in the middle of the Indian Ocean.
The luxury resort's 133-square-metre pool villas
overlook Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa,
Maldive’s lush vegetation, and feature their own
private pool, terrace and open-air shower. Guests at these intimate pool villas can enjoy
ocean views from the comfort of their bed, catch up on their reading or relax on a day bed on
the balcony.
Deluxe Pool Villas
The day starts with a spectacular sunrise and closes
amid the soothing, rhythmic lapping sound of the
waves.
Located in sumptuous tranquillity on Villingili Island,
all sixteen Deluxe Pool Villas have their own spacious
garden and intimate coral beach front, offering
unbeatable seclusion and second-to-none privacy.
At the Deluxe Pool Villas, nestled in rich vegetation, guests can enjoy the stunning views of
the gentle rolling ocean from their own infinity pool and wooden sun deck. The bedroom and
bathroom look out to the sea, while the spacious patio features outdoor furniture designed for
dining under the stars on a balmy evening.
The villas are set over two separate pavilions - on one side a living room, and on the other a
bedroom.
Beach Villas
For your own private haven, a luxurious Beach Villa
offers splendid isolation on a white sandy beach. Set
over two separate pavilions, it is like living in your
own personal space - on one side there is a living
pavilion and on the other, the bedroom pavilion.
Entry is via a thatched-roof entry gate through a
landscaped courtyard leading to the rustic timber door
of the villa’s entrance.
These spacious, 189-square-metre stand-alone villas are along the fine white sandy beach of
Villingili Island. Each of the thirteen Beach Villas at the resort is ideal for families or
couples. Located in a beautiful setting amidst an expertly landscaped garden, it has its own
infinity pool. The wooden sun deck overlooks the sea, while both the bedroom and bathroom
also face the ocean. The spacious patio features outdoor furniture designed for dining under
the stars on a balmy evening.
Water Villas
As you laze in your Water Villa on a brilliant tropical
afternoon, enjoy the subtle breeze as you reflect upon the
distant horizon – where the azure waters meet a sapphirecoloured sky.
Built on stilts in the resort's lagoon and connected to the island
by a timber walkway, each Water Villa has an open and airy
atmosphere. Access to this private haven is via a walkway over
the turquoise water, which teems with marine life.
All 60 delightful water Villas are luxuriously appointed, and
they make full use of the generous 166 square metres of space by having few walls and using
glass to allow for unobstructed views.
Guests are able to shower in the elements, or soak in the spacious bathroom’s huge oval
bathtub located in the middle of the area. Either way, guests can view the wide expanse of
clear skies as they contemplate in the bath. Alternatively, just soak up the surroundings on
the long day bed on the private terrace that leads to the waterfront or lounge in a hammock
with the clear waters beneath.
Ocean View Villas
With stunning views of the ocean that unfold like a
living canvas of sparkling surf, Ocean View Villas are
appropriately named. Perched on stilts three metres
above the ground, this is luxury accommodation that
gives guests a memorable stay in a tropical setting.
Each of the eight luxury Ocean View Villas has its own
infinity pool set high above the ground. Guests can
swim up to the edge and unwind watching the waves roll in from the ocean or choose to
recline on their sun beds and enjoy a heightened sensation of elevation as they contemplate
the horizon. Rocked by the natural sound of the ocean, guests can also enjoy alfresco dining
on the villa’s wooden sun deck.
Tree House Villas
With stunning views of the ocean, Tree House Villas are
the ideal secluded, private island hideaway. Perched on
stilts among the treetops amidst dense vegetation, this is
luxury accommodation that gives guests a memorable
stay in a tropical tree house. At this elevation, privacy
is assured, and the beautiful, panoramic views unfold
like a living canvas of sparkling surf, languid lagoons
and the verdant vegetation, home to colourful
indigenous bird life.
Shangri-La's Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives' eight Tree House Villas are unique to the
Maldives and desirable accommodation for adventurers, couples and honeymooners. These
distinctive villas are perched on stilts three metres above ground, affording stunning views
over Villingili Island and Addu Atoll.
These secluded private hideaways are cloaked in privacy by a lush canopy of towering trees.
Guests can recline on their spacious day beds and enjoy a heightened sensation of elevation
as they float among the treetops. Every luxury Tree House Villa has its own infinity plunge
pool set high above the ground so that guests can lie and soak as they watch the waves roll in
from the ocean. The villa’s wooden sun deck is ideal for alfresco dining.
Two-Bedroom Beach Villas
Relax in the spaciousness of one of the Two-bedroom
Beach Villas of Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa,
Maldives.
These luxurious and tastefully decorated villas are
located beside each other, making them ideal for
families or travelling companions wanting privacy as
well as proximity. At 224 square metres each, the twobedroom beach villas are set on beautiful grounds. The two bedrooms share a large patio and
sun deck complete with an infinity pool.
Villa Muthee
Like a pearl in its own oyster, Villa Muthee nestles in
its own luxurious environment. From the choicest of
decor to the stunning seascapes that surround it, Villa
Muthee promises an experience hard to beat.
The only one of its kind at Shangri-La's Villingili
Resort and Spa, Maldives, Villa Muthee is
appropriately named. Muthee, which means “pearl” in
the local Dhivehi language, is a villa for those craving solace from the fast-paced world in an
ambience that offers stunning vistas and absolutely everything you need for a perfect
getaway.
Lounge on a hammock on a deck overlooking the sea, or get closer to nature on the sun deck
beneath the shelter of a bale pavilion where waves of tranquillity wash over and soothe body
and soul.
The stunning timber rafters of the Villa Muthee create a
heightened sense of space in this presidential water villa.
At 570 square metres, the villa features an airy living
room decorated with Asian art that creates a homely
mood.
Housed in a self-contained entertainment
pavilion fronted by a 16-metre pool, it also has an
outdoor dining pavilion where the perfect technicolour
sunset can complement a choice selection from the
extensive dinner and drinks menu.
Relaxation can also be found in Villa Muthee’s own spa pavilion for couples. After a
calming massage, soak in the round bathtub that is the centrepiece of the spacious bathroom
with its own walk-in wardrobe, dressing area and “his and hers” vanity counters.
With its Eastern influences like Lipao teak with mother-of-pearl accents and other customised
furnishings, Villa Muthee exudes a tropical contemporary style that will endear it to guests,
who will find it hard to venture out of this luxurious oyster of comfort.
Villa Laalu
Offering the best in lifestyle features for discerning
guests and VIPs, Villa Laalu is the ultimate luxury
resort experience at Shangri-La's Villingili Resort and
Spa, Maldives. Spacious, stylish and thoughtfully
designed to create a lavish getaway, this presidential
beach villa is the jewel in the resort's crown.
Laalu means “diamond” in the local Dhivehi language,
and Villa Laalu features the choicest amenities and accessories. Measuring a generous 957
square metres, Villa Laalu is a gem of a place in which to stay. Carefully selected artworks
are on display throughout this exquisite villa together with precious, high-end Asian artefacts,
sculptures and urns from Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Thailand.
This ultimate in luxury accommodation features two
large bedrooms with high ceilings, an extensive garden
plus everything a discerning guest might possibly need.
Round-the-clock in-villa dining can be enjoyed in the
living room with timber-decked verandas, or in the
air-conditioned or alfresco dining pavilions.
The
tastefully appointed master bathroom brings the
outdoors within, highlighted by a luxurious tub for two
raised off the floor on textured stone with an adjacent cascading water feature.
A spa pavilion set amidst the greenery means spa treatments can be enjoyed in the privacy of
the villa. The is an outdoor designer shower with body jets, a sauna and a gymnasium with
its own private courtyard and garden, an inspiring study room that faces the ocean and a
bedroom for personal security staff. In addition, with high ceilings throughout, there is a
light and airy feel to the entire villa. A personal villa host is always on hand to attend to any
requests.
RESTAURANTS AND BARS
Dr. Ali's Restaurant and Bar
Travellers from every corner of the world adored
visiting Dr. Ali - for more than 60 years a much-loved
doctor on Villingili who delighted everyone with his
wonderfully woven nature stories.
They brought him exotic ingredients from their own
countries - and before long, these herbs and spices were
fused creatively into his marvellous, magical recipes.
And today, every dish in Dr. Ali's Restaurant represents a mouth-watering legacy to this local
respected legend.
Dr. Ali was much revered throughout the Maldives and was descended from a long line of
doctors at one with nature. It was said he could pacify the troubled with the whisk of a folded
leaf, bring new found strength to the weary with just the scent of a cut herb, and revitalise the
jaded with his legendary herbal toddy made from plant nectar. He touched the hearts of those
who met him and delighted everyone with his endless knowledge of all living things.
His proud legacy - Dr. Ali's Restaurant - is simple, fresh and innovative, and is the first
restaurant of its kind in the Maldives. Three separate dining rooms tailored to recreate a cosy
and intimate experience are designed to make diners feel they are dining in the magical
doctor's house itself.
Drawing on the strategic location of the Maldives at the crossing
point of the Indian Ocean, the South China Sea and the Arabian
Gulf, these distinctive Eastern-style living rooms reflect the
sumptuous different cultures and cuisines that have made
Maldives the delight it is. Dr. Ali's dishes are rich in wonderful
herbs and spices, all lovingly imbued with the memory and
heritage of a well-respected man.
In Dr. Ali's, a culinary adventure awaits diners. The gastronomic
influences of the Maldives are enticingly captured by the variety
of cuisines on offer here. The special Indian Ocean living room
serves aromatic curries, tandoori dishes and roast meat prepared by chefs skilled in the subtle
blending of exotic spices. The South China Sea living room focuses on signature Shangri-La
Cantonese dishes like platters of delectable dim sum morsels, steamed freshly netted fish and
tasty stir-fries as well as mouth-watering Vietnamese specialities and recipes from some of
the masters of Oriental cuisine. A light and airy ambience fills this living room, which is
highlighted by Asian artefacts. The design style complements the surroundings, while the
prevalence of gold and blue hues in the restaurant reflects the sea and beyond.
More of the marvellous Dr. Ali's magical secrets can be discovered in the Arabian Gulf living
room, where the culinary emphasis is on Lebanese cuisine as well as quintessential dishes
from the entire Middle East region such as hummus, salads, tagine, kebabs and saj.
The dining pavilions in Dr. Ali's are decorated throughout with special artworks and nostalgic
artefacts with historical significance to the Maldives – from old nautical instruments such as
sextants dating from the spice trade route era, to local herbal etchings and foliage collections.
The colour scheme in the Arabian Gulf living room is rich and earthy with colours like red,
orange and ochre strongly highlighted, while the decor is Middle Eastern with a clay tiled
floor, heavy carved wood displays and rich tapestries and rugs. There is also a collection of
artefacts from Dubai, Morocco and Northern Africa.
The relaxing background music in Dr. Ali's Bar comprises ambient Arabic chill-out and
Asian lounge music. This bar connecting Dr. Ali's Restaurant is seductive, intimate and
opulent - and the perfect place for a relaxing pre-dinner aperitif or mellow postprandial
digestif. Choose from a special selection of herbal infused drinks, extensive rum concoctions
and sit back to enjoy a sheesha. It is an experience and style that would have warmed the
heart of Dr. Ali himself.
Javvu Restaurant
For that feeling of dining in the elements, Javvu Restaurant is
ideally located. Set across two pavilions, it has a fresh, cool
and sophisticated atmosphere. A large glass front, seven-metre
high ceilings, natural open rafters and decorative pendant lights
help imbue Javvu with a light and airy ambience.
There is a contemporary, welcoming feel and the emphasis in
Javvu is on fine dining in relaxed and stylish surroundings.
Located close to the ocean, diners sit on leather woven white
seats and blue, red and gold accented throw pillows. Javvu in
the local Dhivehi language means “atmosphere” and that is
available here in abundance.
Javvu is the resort’s all-day dining restaurant, featuring quality café dining during the day and
refined Western cuisine in the evening - prime steaks and seafood, imbued with a touch of the
Mediterranean. Breakfast at Javvu is informal but essential to the experience. Culinary
creativity is evident in the menus. Guests can choose their meals from the à la carte cooked
breakfast or continental selection. Lunch features an international café-style poolside menu,
with tempting favourites to suit the international palate. The menu also includes dishes
developed exclusively for Shangri-La to satisfy the taste buds of health-conscious guests.
While lunch and breakfast in Javvu are casual affairs, dinner offers a refined style of service.
Guests can dine on the pool deck or in one of the two dinner pavilions - one surrounded by
water and the other with garden views. There is also a 12-seat private dining room available
for gatherings that are more convivial.
Fashala Lounge
Fashala Lounge is aptly named after the local Dhivehi
word for “the edge” because of its location at the
northern peak of the island. It sits at the edge of the
ocean on Villingili Island where the tide changes.
The decor at Fashala Lounge is contemporary, relaxed
and understated - whitewashed and sun-bleached wood designed to encourage the poetic play of light on
sculptured wood. No artefacts here, since the Fashala
Lounge is a temple to the sea, a huge and happy celebration of the rhythm and flows of the
ocean.
Fashala Lounge serves fine dining cuisine featuring local ingredients from the surrounding
waters and neighbouring farms.
The atmosphere in Fashala Lounge is sultry with a modern twist. It is a place to chill. To
reflect by the edge of the water, or recall the delightful images of a magical day. The music
that mingles with the breeze is a selection of ambient and smooth jazz and down tempo beats.
Manzaru Bar
Manzaru Bar in The Village is the perfect spot to people watch
and relax to some chill-out music, amid the swaying palm trees
that cast playful shadows on the stone-clad columns and the
contemporary lounge furniture. Exposed rafters and limestone
carved feature walls with intricate motifs particular to the region
give the venue a chic, contemporary feel.
Translated into English, Manzaru means “view.” Manzaru is the
ideal place for guests to lie back and relax on burnished orange
accent cushions while watching the world drift by, or to make
new acquaintances. Armed with a cocktail of choice and snacks
from an inventive bar menu, savour views of the lagoon and the jetty. This is a fine location
to unwind after a day’s activities and to share experiences with old and new friends.
Endheri Pool Bar
Very much the heart of the resort, the Endheri Pool Bar
is a stylish cool spot that offers guests a comfortable
and relaxed atmosphere, and is an ideal vantage point
for whiling away the hours. Located on the beach,
Endheri is the perfect venue for a complete chill-out
and guests are always only one step away from the
ocean. With a structure that is open to the elements on
all sides and with timber decking throughout, the
atmosphere at Endheri is light and refreshing.
“Endheri” means “black coral” in the local Dhivehi language, and this is where most resort
guests hang out by the pool at lunchtime and during the day.
DINE BY DESIGN
From lunch on the equator aboard a luxury yacht to a rustic, candlelit barbecue on the sands
of Shangri-La's Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives, the key to a unique experience is the
creation of special dining options for well-seasoned travellers.
The resort’s expert chefs can create special meals as part of its bespoke service, “Dine by
Design.” This allows couples or groups of friends to dine in style in a different location
every night. If they prefer, it is also an ideal opportunity to connect with other guests with
shared passions and explore different cuisines in various settings and at a variety of secret
locations around the island.
Dinner in the Jungle
A torchlit clearing in the jungle, surrounded by lush vegetation and
the chirping sounds of the mysterious night life, where perfectly
adorned tables are lavishly laid out for dinner. As unlikely as it
may sound, this is, in fact, one of the resort’s most unusual dining
locations.
In Villa BBQ and Romantic Dinner
From a candlelit table for a romantic evening to a more
convivial lunch among friends, enjoy a barbecue in the
intimacy of your villa. Alternatively, surprise your loved one
with a romantic set dinner, be it on the deck of your Water
Villa or surrounded by your private garden. Just let us know
your preferred menu and atmosphere and the team will
organise the perfect evening.
Spa Dinner
More than just a meal, this is an experience engaging your five
senses for a complete state of well-being. Surrender to the caress of
the gentle breeze and the soothing sound coming from the energetic
ocean and find inner calmness surrounded by soft candle light.
Enjoy the aroma of blended herbs while you savour a four-course
healthy gourmet dinner rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals,
purposely designed to restore balance and harmony within your
body and mind.
Chef’s Garden Dinner
Dine amid the wafting aromas of lemon grass, sweet basil and mint at
the resort’s Chef’s Garden. This culinary journey starts with a stroll in
the garden accompanied by our executive chef. After hand picking a
selection of vegetables, enjoy an aperitif while the chef prepares a
creative dinner and unveils insightful culinary tips. In the intimacy of
the garden, dine on a four-course menu featuring the best of local
products including fresh catch of the day and your pick from the garden
for an entertaining and innovative dining experience.
Lunch on the Equator
As far as lunch venues go, they do not come more exotic or unusual
than zero degrees latitude. Our luxury yacht “Horizon” departs from
the resort’s marina. Breakfast will be served on board and the “trip
to zero” might involve a little fishing or sunbathing on deck. On
reaching the equator just before midday, the exquisite epicurean
lunch will be prepared for you in the yacht’s galley.
- Subject to weather conditions
Dinner on a Luxury Yacht
There are few moments as mesmerising as watching a tropical sunset out on the open sea and
when the venue is a sublime, 21-metre yacht, it becomes the stuff that dreams are made of.
Our spectacular yacht will pick you up in the early evening for pre-dinner cocktails and
appetisers on the bow. Your butler for the evening will then escort you to the elegant dining
room for a gourmet dinner - the menu for which you will have selected previously accompanied with fine wines and digestifs.
Once In A Lifetime Dinner
Experience a once in a lifetime dinner in Villa Muthee or
Villa Laalu, the resort’s presidential villas. As you walk
along the candlelit pathway that leads to the villa deck, let
your personal waiter introduce you to your kingdom while
you enjoy a glass of chilled champagne with canapés. Let the
sky turn into a black curtain sparkling with diamond stars
before sharing with your loved one a four-course menu of
your choice with the natural sound of the lapping waves as background music. A perfect way
to celebrate a special occasion.
- Bookings can be made no more than five days in advance and are subject to availability.
CHI, THE SPA
Set on the highest geographical point in the resort and spanning
over 16,700 square metres, the secluded sanctuary is its own spa
village within the resort. Eleven spacious treatment villas offer
the CHI signature “spa within a spa” concept, featuring private
treatment rooms, lounging areas, steam rooms, outdoor gardens
and bathing facilities along with two meditation pavilions and a
yoga pavilion with views overlooking the Indian Ocean.
The spa village is surrounded by the island’s own natural dense
vegetation, which sets it apart from many of the other Maldivian
resort islands. The three-kilometre-long island is home to 12
hectares of towering banyan trees, coconut trees, lagoons and lush
vegetation.
Five of the villas are designed for couples, including the CHI
villa, which is dedicated to offer the Himalyan Tsangpo Ritual, a
signature bathing and cleansing ritual using ingredients based on
the Sowa Rigpa, the 1,500-year-old Himalayan healing tradition.
The ritual takes place in a specially designed heated wet room
inspired by the enveloping warmth of Himalayan mountain
caves and the refreshing waters of high altitude rivers.
The extensive CHI menu features signature therapies like the
Himalayan Healing Stone Massage and the Mountain Tsampa
Rub based on the ancient healing traditions of the mystical
Himalayan region, while in the Maldives, natural indigenous ingredients and products like
coconut and cowrie shells feature in a number of exclusive
therapies highlighting the local culture of the islands.
The Maldives was once a source for the money cowrie shell,
which was a prized form of currency along the ancient marine
trade routes. Drawing inspiration from these treasures found in
the waters surrounding the Maldives, the Kandu Boli Ritual is a
body and face massage in which larger tiger cowrie shells are
used to apply pressure. The treatment finishes with warm
coconut oil drizzled through the hair followed by a soothing
scalp massage.
RECREATION
Shangri-La's Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives enjoys ample
space and provides many possibilities for a healthy start to the
day. Take a walk through the resort's jungle, dive in the lagoon,
jog along the beach, follow one of the marked jogging trails or
exercise at the well-equipped gymnasium. By day, energetic
guests able to drag themselves away from the beach can enjoy
waterborne activities like wave-surfing, scuba-diving, kayaking,
sailing, deep-sea fishing, or a cruise on a luxury yacht for lunch
on the equator.
Excellent snorkelling is available around the island. Head out
towards the coral reef and meet our colourful residents in the
surrounding waters. It swarms with exotic reef fish and corals. For diving enthusiasts, there
are more than 25 dive sites teeming with marine life, including the year-round buzz of
encountering and observing the beautiful manta ray. There is also the dramatic 140-metre
“British Loyalty” shipwreck with its hull resting at 33 metres, just a half-hour boat ride away
from Villingili Island.
Off-island trips are a thrill not only for divers. Less experienced
swimmers can enjoy “snorkel gardens” close to the resort’s
shoreline. On Villingili, guests are ideally located to explore the
other inhabited islands neighbouring the resort. Just take one of
the regular speedboat runs to Gan and explore by bicycle the five
neighbouring islands connected by a 17-kilometre road, which is
the longest in the Maldives. Set out with a picnic and discover
the fascinating lifestyle and culture of untouched Maldivian
villages or stop at a coffee shop to chat with the locals over a
meal.
Guests are in for a thrill with the
country’s first golf course. The Villingili Golf Course is nestled on
seven and a half hectares of land at the southern end of Villingili
Island, where spectacular sights await. Designed as a fun,
recreational golf course for aficionados and beginners alike, it was
developed while keeping the island’s natural beauty untouched.
Players will delight in exploring a scenic walking path and
secluded, intimate beach coves on the bordering shores.
The resort offers a well-equipped gymnasium and fitness centre, a sea sports and dive centre,
and tennis courts. In addition, guests can shop at the resort’s four boutiques selling chic
resort wear, exquisite keepsakes and unique jewellery.
The children’s Cool Zone provides a lively place for active children below the age of 12
years old to spend their time with complimentary fun-filled activities from nature treks with
our local naturalist to cooking classes and pirate adventures.
ECO CENTRE
The Shangri-La Eco Centre, located within The Village
complex, is a place to discover, entertain and educate in an
interactive and lively atmosphere. Guests will get an in-depth
understanding of the conservation work carried out at the
resort, and of how they can support the resort's efforts.
A marine biologist gives fascinating talks on the island's nature
trails and the surrounding underwater beauty, the stunning dive
sites and places where the coral reef swarms with exotic fish an unforgettable and exciting highlight for both experienced
snorkellers and beginners alike. This is where you will find
useful maps and discover all the well-kept secrets around Addu Atoll when you venture out
of the resort for snorkelling or cycling in the neighbouring islands.
Discover the invaluable work carried out by the resort's marine biologist, who has created
snorkelling gardens close to the shoreline. These gardens thrive with colourful underwater
life and are perfect for less experienced snorkellers and children.
Guests can learn about the wondrous corals - from wide reef tops covered with live
Acrophora corals to long branching staghorn coral and table corals - and how many of them
escaped the widespread coral bleaching of 1998.
There is also an opportunity to learn more about the precious marine animals, including
manta rays, which can be seen year round, reef sharks, green turtles, eagle rays and lobsters
and many species of reef fish - before you swim up close and personal to them in and around
Villingili's clear blue waters.
WEDDING BLESSING CEREMONIES
Whether you are on your honeymoon and want to prolong the festivities with a romantic
blessing in a tropical setting or you wish to surprise your loved one on your anniversary, let
our wedding planner organise your dream ceremony for memories of a lifetime.
Choose among five hidden locations and six cultural themes to say “I do” to your loved one.
If you are looking for something unique, put on your scuba-diving gear and exchange your
vows on waterproof boards while curious reef fish witness your engagement. For the utmost
romantic experience, venture out to sea aboard a luxury sailing yacht and let the ocean breeze
carry your promise away. You can also choose to celebrate with a century-old banyan tree as
a backdrop, under a pavilion facing the ocean or barefoot on the beach. For an additional
personal touch, pick a cultural theme - Chinese, Indian, Maldivian, Arabic, Japanese or
Western, the choice in yours.
The full-day experience includes a ceremony master, a wedding planner, a candlelit dinner, a
couple spa treatment, flower arrangements, a professional photo shoot and other services for
an unforgettable day.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts has unified all initiatives within five key areas of corporate
social responsibility (CSR), namely the environment, employees and community, supply
chain, health and safety, and stakeholder relations, under the umbrella brand of
“sustainability.” This campaign aims to help educate its stakeholders, inspire and engage its
employees, enjoin its business partners and align with local community initiatives so that
CSR can be used as a platform for social development.
Our Mission Statement
We envision a community of responsible and educated citizens who are environmentally
conscious, practice social responsibility in their daily lives and inspire others to do the same.
We commit to operating in an economically, socially and environmentally responsible
manner whilst balancing the interests of diverse stakeholders. We strive to be a leader in
corporate citizenship and sustainable development, caring for our employees and customers,
seeking to enrich the quality of life for the communities in which we do business and serving
as good stewards of society and the environment.
Initiatives
Green Construction
As part of our commitment to mitigate impacts on the
environment, several initiatives were carried out at the
construction stage, including:
Solar panels: placed on the roofs of all guest villas, the solar
panels help heat water inside the villa.
Insulation material: allows cooled air to be kept in and prevents
heat gain, therefore reducing the necessity of air conditioning.
Micro switches: when doors and windows are left open, micro
switches automatically turn off the air conditioning system.
Water bottling plant: with the investment of reusable glass
bottles and a fully equipped bottling plant, the resort has
reduced its consumption of plastic bottles of about 240,000 a
year.
Coral reef monitoring: A marine specialist monitored the reef and relocated corals that could
have been damaged by construction work in an attempt to protect marine life.
Education: A Flavour of Hospitality Industry
The opening of Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and
Spa, Maldives as the first luxury resort in Addu
Atoll is a dream come true for the people of Addu
and an inspiration for youngsters. On a regular
basis, the resort invites local students to the resort
and introduces them to the hospitality industry. The
familiarisation includes a resort tour as well as
presentations from the different department heads,
and offers a good opportunity for students to explore
possibilities for a future career at the resort.
Celebration of Local Culture
As part of its initiatives to contribute to the
development of local communities, the resort
implemented a weekly local market at the resort
celebrating the local culture. While guests can learn
about local customs and artefacts, local women have
the opportunity to sell handmade souvenirs and
enhance their lives. In addition, a dance group
composed of the resort’s employees performs a local
cultural dance called “Bodu Beru” every week at the resort’s management cocktail reception.
Local Coconut Oil
CHI, The Spa has designed an indigenous treatment making use of
the treasures found in the Maldives, including the virgin coconut
oil specially made by a local community near Villingili. As a
result, guests can enjoy the many benefits of the freshly harvested
and pressed Maldivian coconuts while the resort supports the local
community with business opportunities.
Local Products for a carbon-free environment
Since its opening, the resort has established strong
relationships with local fishermen and farmers here on
the atoll.
An agreement was signed with the
Foundation of Meedhoo Development, a neighbouring
local island, committing to purchase local fruits and
vegetables. This initiative aims to contribute to the
economic development of the local community,
minimise the release of carbon that results from flying
in produce from all over the world and offer guests fresh quality produce.
Eco Activities
As part of the its commitment to environmental
awareness, the resort regularly organises “environment
days” involving employees, guests and the community
in green activities such as beach, land and reef cleaning.
SHANGRI-LA HOTELS AND RESORTS
Hong Kong-based Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts is one of the world’s premier hotel
ownership and management companies. Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts is the trade name of
Shangri-La Asia Limited’s management arm.
The Kuok Group, a diversified and dynamic business conglomerate with origins in Malaysia,
has a major equity holding in Shangri-La Asia, which is listed on the Hong Kong Stock
Exchange. Established by Robert Kuok, the group’s business operations span a range of
activities and a number of countries in Asia. In addition to hotels, the group’s portfolio also
includes commodity trading, real estate, beverages, logistics, newspaper publishing, shipping,
edible oil refining and plantations.
Inspired by the legendary land featured in James Hilton’s novel Lost Horizon published in
1933, the name Shangri-La encapsulates the serenity and service for which Shangri-La is
renowned worldwide. The group has three brands: Shangri-La, Kerry and Traders hotels.
Shangri-La properties are primarily five-star deluxe city centre and resort hotels with the
majority of the city centre hotels having over 500 guestrooms, whereas the resort properties
tend to be smaller. Kerry Hotels are designed to appeal to business travellers who prefer a
vibrant and relaxed environment without compromising on service or quality. The hotels are
contemporary in style and provide a seamless link between business, entertainment and
recreation. Extensive leisure facilities serve as a social activity hub for both hotel guests and
the local community. Introduced in 1989, Traders is the four-star brand of mid-priced city
centre hotels consisting of 15 hotels in Abu Dhabi, Beijing, Changzhou, Dubai, Hong Kong,
Johor, Kuala Lumpur, Male, Manila, Penang, Singapore, Shenyang, Yangon and Brisbane.
Shangri-La’s tradition of service excellence started with the opening of the Shangri-La Hotel,
Singapore in 1971. The hotel’s 15 acres of landscaped gardens, beautifully appointed guest
rooms and gracious Asian style set a new standard for hotel excellence, which to this day
continues to guide the group’s design features.
Training is Shangri-La's top priority and significant resources are allocated annually to ensure
employees have the skills and knowledge to be the best in their fields. This has earned the
group international awards and recognition from guests, prestigious magazines as well as
industry partners and made Shangri-La one of the preferred hotel employers, with over
41,000 people serving guests with the philosophy “hospitality from the heart.”
Since its origin, the group has grown rapidly to satisfy the increased demand for deluxe hotels
and resorts in Asia Pacific's capital cities and most sought-after leisure destinations. Today
there are 80 properties, of which only 20 are third party management agreements, throughout
Asia Pacific, Europe, North America and the Middle East, representing a rooms inventory of
over 32,000. In addition, the group has a substantial development pipeline with upcoming
projects in mainland China, India, Philippines, Qatar, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, Turkey and
United Kingdom.
Shangri-La also operates its own dedicated sales and marketing offices: Hong Kong, Beijing,
Shanghai, Guangzhou, Singapore, Tokyo, London, Los Angeles, New York, Sydney, and
Dubai. The group is linked to 28 frequent flyer programmes and has its own frequent guest
recognition programme – Golden Circle. The Golden Circle programme has been
acknowledged as being one of the best in the industry with over two million current
members.
RESORT PERSONALITIES
Rene D. Egle, General Manager
Mr. Egle brings with him over 20 years of experience in the luxury
hospitality industry. Prior to moving to the Maldives, he was general
manager at Traders Hotel, Dubai. Previously, he spent three years at
Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai - as resident manager, then hotel manager. Mr.
Egle joined Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts in 2003 as resident manager
of Shangri-La Hotel, Jakarta. Earlier in his career, he held key positions
in various five-star hotels in Asia, including the Swissôtel, Beijing; the
the Kempinski Furama Hotel, Hong Kong and the Regent Hotel, Kuala
Lumpur.
Brian Porteus, Executive Chef
Chef Brian, an Irish national, has more than 20 years of international
culinary experience in deluxe hotels and restaurants. Chef Brian is a
classically French-trained chef who received training in some of the
world's most exclusive restaurants, including the Michelin-starred
restaurants 90 Park Lane at Grosvenor House Hotel, London and Le
Manoir Aux Quat’Saisons restaurant in Great Milton (England).
Chef Brian’s cooking style is based on traditional French techniques,
imbued with modern and mature fusion cuisine, emphasising
simplicity, freshness and natural textures with cultural influences. Chef
Brian believes in enthusing imagination in the kitchen and in sourcing ingredients locally
when possible, and always at their freshest.
Peter Watt-Pringle, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager
Holding a Master’s degree in Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, Peter
Watt-Pringle has eight years of experience in marine biology. Peter
develops and implements best environmental practices and manages
the Eco Centre’s turtles and manta rays conservation programmes.
Educational yet fun-filled activities aim to increase awareness about
the importance of preserving the environment and include nature
walks, coral planting and marine biodiversity presentations. Peter also
works closely with the local community by facilitating dialogue with
local suppliers, looking for ways to provide further employment and
economic opportunities.