Immerse in a Journey Through Authentic Island Life Adventures
Thursday 4th of February 2021
Whether you choose to relax on the untouched sandy beaches as you sip away on a cocktail or bathing in the last sun rays in the golden hour in the privacy of your luxury overwater villa deck, Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands has created a plethora of cultural Maldivian traditions for guests to embrace. From the moment you step on to the shores of the island, seize to the holistic philosophies crafted around the true spirit of Maldives.
Guests’ welcome is signified on the island by the blowing the traditional Sangu horn, commonly known as a Triton’s Trumpet, by a Maldivian gentleman. The blowing of Sangu shell can be traced back to ancient Maldivian times as part of ceremonial celebrations announcing the arrival of special guests and good news in the island communities. Continuing this respectful cultural trait, the resort welcomes every new guest to the island with a warm welcome extended by the blow of Sangu.
Every visitor to the island is allocated an Aris Meeha, or island butler, who ensures unparalleled guest service is provided throughout the stay. The Aris Meeha concept was inspired by the royal courts of the ancient Maldives. Members of the royal family were each assigned an Aris Meeha who similar to a modern-day butler, fulfills every detail of the life of a royal, just the way guests will be treated on the island.
Each villa in the resort artfully illustrates the cyclical nature of island life through distinct choices in architecture, one of which includes a Beru. Made locally from coconut wood on the island, the drum coincides with the indigenous form of dance and music with Bodu Beru – one of the oldest surviving traditions dating back to the 11th century. Many circular shapes and structures can be seen around the property in this regard. Guests can enjoy a sundowner with Bodu Beru music everyday at the Eau Bar, a ritual unique to Fari Islands, reflecting back on a day full of discoveries, while transitioning into an evening of relaxation and indulgence.
Dining is an essential part of how one spends a good holiday and guests can be assured sustainably sourced ingredients from the resort’s organic garden skillfully transformed into delectable meals for them bythe resort’s culinary team. They work closely with local fisherman to provide the freshest seafood and well-known local lobsters, immersing in local cultures through the resort’s dining concepts.
Guests will also and have the option of learning to cook Maldivian dishes such as mashuni, a breakfast staple made with tuna and fresh coconut, as well as sample the local bites, hedhika, for afternoon tea. The resort’s signature cocktail selection is inspired by the maritime spice routes that shaped the Maldivian story and includes five spices: cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, cumin and turmeric.
Listen away to Maldivian folklore tales told by the resort’s very own sea expert, Moodhu Edhuru over a bonfire or including salutations under a majestic 30-foot native Banyan tree at the Spiral Garden. Guests have a number of such alluring cultural experiences on offer that depicts the distinct culture and history of the Maldives.
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands redefines the Maldivian experience, allowing guests to experience a balance of cosmopolitan and private island life never before seen in the region. A Maldivian life awaits.