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Showing posts from January, 2026

The St. Regis Maldives reaches milestone of 300 coral frames in ongoing reef restoration efforts

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort has announced a significant milestone in its marine conservation programme, reaching 300 coral frames installed around Vommuli Island. The achievement marks a major step forward in the resort’s long-term commitment to reef restoration and marine biodiversity preservation in the Dhaalu Atoll. Led by resident marine biologist Hazel Araujo, the coral restoration initiative has expanded steadily since its launch in 2023. As of 2025, the programme supports more than 16,800 coral fragments across four active restoration sites, representing over 13 coral species. Collectively, these frames have contributed to the restoration of more than 70 square metres of reef habitat surrounding the island. The milestone also reflects the programme’s progression from active restoration to natural regeneration. For the first time, coral colonies grown on the resort’s earliest frames, now approaching three years in age, have reached sufficient maturity to serve as donor ...

Gallop into Lunar New Year 2026 at Kandooma Maldives

  This February, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives invites guests to welcome Lunar New Year 2026 with a vibrant island celebration honouring the Year of the Fire Horse. Running from 16 to 21 February, the programme blends festive dining, restorative wellness, and family friendly fun set against the breathtaking natural beauty and stunning sunsets of the Maldives.   In Chinese culture, the Horse symbolises energy, confidence, freedom and forward momentum, qualities intensified by the Fire element, which represents passion, renewal and bold new beginnings. At Kandooma, this spirit comes to life through a thoughtfully prepared celebration that balances relaxation with movement, and time-honoured traditions with the freedom of a private island escape. Festive dining sits at the heart of the celebrations. Guests are invited to share in a Prosperity Yu Sheng (Lo Hei) experience, where fresh fish, vibrant shredded vegetables and condiments are tossed together to invite abundance, ...

JOALI BEING partners with acclaimed chef Kelvin Cheung on an exclusive culinary journey

Joali Being unveils an exclusive culinary partnership with acclaimed Chef Kelvin Cheung, the award - winning pioneer of Third Culture cuisine, recognised by the MICHELIN Guide and MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants. Taking place from 18th to 22nd February, the collaboration invites guests to gather and celebrate renewal and togetherness through a thoughtfully curated culinary journey.   Born in Canada, raised in Chicago, and now based in Dubai, Chef Kelvin Cheung’s culinary philosophy is shaped by a life lived between cultures. Drawing from his Chinese heritage, North American upbringing, and classical French training, his cuisine reflects a deeply personal narrative rooted in memory, movement, and meaning. Thoughtful and instinctive, his approach speaks to balance, harmony, and intention, values that align naturally with both the spirit of Lunar New Year and JOALI BEING’s philosophy of well-living through conscious, considered experiences.   The collaboration is expressed through a c...

Love, curated by the island: bespoke Valentine’s experiences at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa invites couples to celebrate love in its most enchanting form with a collection of thoughtfully curated Valentine’s Romantic Packages. Designed to transform meaningful moments into lifelong memories, these bespoke experiences artfully blend refined dining, serene wellness, marine discovery, and intimate island settings into journeys crafted exclusively for two. For couples drawn to a timeless expression of romance, "Crystal & Candlelight" sets an elegant tone with a four-course candlelit dinner at Sea Salt, complemented by a printed keepsake photo and romantic turndown amenities. As gentle waves whisper along the shore and candlelight dances beneath the stars, the evening unfolds into a classic celebration of intimacy and grace. Those wishing to intertwine wellness, nature, and romance may choose "The Enchanted Escape". This beautifully paced experience begins with a rejuvenating couple’s massage at Shine Spa, followe...

Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives unveils romance in paradise — a year-round escape for couples

Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives, the contemporary island retreat set in the heart of the North Malé Atoll, has announced the launch of its Romance in Paradise offer, a thoughtfully curated couples’ experience debuting for the Valentine’s period and available for stays throughout the year.   Designed for couples seeking meaningful connection rather than occasion-led indulgence, Romance in Paradise invites guests to slow down, reconnect and celebrate love in one of the world’s most captivating natural settings, framed by luminous lagoons, soft white sands and endless Indian Ocean horizons.   At Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives, romance is expressed through personalised moments and shared island experiences. Contemporary design blends effortlessly with the surrounding environment, creating a relaxed yet refined atmosphere where couples can enjoy time together in a way that feels natural, unhurried and deeply personal.   Set on a pristine island encircled by soft white sand and ...

Chocolate meets mindful wellbeing with Chef Janice Wong at Ozen Reserve Bolifushi

The whispers of innovation are sweetening the Maldivian air once more as THE OZEN COLLECTION heralds the celebrated return of culinary visionary, Janice Wong. This April, the pristine shores of  OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI  will again become a canvas for her genius, hosting the exclusive 'Chocolate Art & Serenity' pop-up from the 27th to the 29th. Against the iconic overwater backdrop of the resort’s world-class outlets, CUVÉE, ORIGINꓱ and Vista del Mar, indulgence is redefined and transformed into an immersive journey of edible artistry and sublime flavour. The 'Chocolate Art & Serenity' pop-up will present a meticulously curated series of exclusive engagements. From intimate masterclasses for adults, where the alchemy of chocolate is unveiled, to engaging guided cooking activities for children, and a bespoke Cacao Bonfire Meditation Ceremony with Chef Janice Wong combining a guided sound healing session and an intention-setting ritual with a cacao-infused culminati...

Noku Maldives, Vignette Collection launches coral propagation programme under “Means for Good” initiative

Noku Maldives, Vignette Collection is pleased to announce the launch of its Coral Propagation Programme, a new reef enhancement initiative guided by the brand’s purpose-led pillar, Means for Good. Set within the tranquil waters of Noonu Atoll, Noku Maldives is home to a naturally vibrant marine environment. The programme reflects the resort’s long-term commitment to nurturing it with care, intention, and respect for the surrounding ocean. SUPPORTING NATURAL GROWTH, ONE FRAGMENT  AT A TIME At the heart of the initiative is a gentle, nature-led method using “fragments of opportunity” — naturally broken coral fragments that are collected and carefully secured onto coral frames to encourage healthy regrowth. These fragments are stabilised in an environment that supports their development, allowing new coral to establish and flourish over time. Designed with both short-term progress and lasting impact in mind, the Coral Propagation Programme will monitor key indicators of success within...

A celebration of colour and connection at Patina Maldives

This Holi, Patina Maldives, Fari Islands is set to welcome the iconic Indian restaurant Khyber for a three-night takeover, bringing the spirit of the festival to life through shared tables, bold flavours, and joyful connection. Rooted in craft and culture, the collaboration unites two brands that value authenticity, thoughtful hospitality, and meaningful experiences. Khyber’s time-honoured recipes from India’s North-West Frontier meet Patina’s design-led, modern sensibility, creating a dining experience that is both grounded and forward-looking. More than a pop-up, the takeover represents a celebration of heritage and place. Set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, guests are invited to gather, connect, and mark Holi in a manner that is both communal and elevated. Khyber, a name that for over five decades has embodied heritage and excellence, has become a cultural landmark, welcoming global travellers, dignitaries, and tastemakers from around the world, including Shakira, Brad Pit...

Swiss state chef Gregor Zimmermann to curate an exclusive Easter culinary residency at The Nautilus Maldives

  At The Nautilus Maldives, time yields to personal rhythm and creativity is never confined. This Easter, from 3 to 5 April 2026, the ultra-luxury private island hideaway welcomes Gregor Zimmermann, Switzerland’s celebrated State Chef and Executive Chef of the legendary Bellevue Palace in Bern, for an intimate culinary residency where Alpine heritage meets the gentle soul of the Indian Ocean. During his Easter residency, this dialogue unfolds in a series of unhurried, immersive moments. Guests are invited to experience two exclusive gourmet evenings at Zeytoun, where tasting menus create a refined conversation between the flavors of the Swiss Alps and the treasures of the Maldives. The journey is complemented by a Chocolate Masterclass, an intimate and interactive exploration of  Switzerland’s most iconic craft, where Zimmermann shares the cultural heritage, techniques and poetry behind Swiss chocolate, inviting guests to create and savor their own sweet expressions. The resid...

A new wave of luxury: Sun Siyam Iru Fushi reveals the first of its reimagined water villas

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi  has unveiled the first phase of its resortwide design transformation, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of the property under Sun Siyam’s newly launched Luxury Collection. The five-star resort introduces a reimagined portfolio of overwater accommodation, setting a new design direction rooted in refined island luxury and Maldivian craftsmanship. Reimagined Water Villas & Horizon Water Villas with Private Pool The newly reimagined overwater villas are the first chapter of this design transformation. Sublime in form and feeling, they introduce a contemporary expression of rustic Maldivian luxury. Each villa frames the ocean, offering a serene open-plan layout and a spacious bathroom with a bathtub overlooking the lagoon. Private decks feature multiple lounging zones, suspended hammocks, and intimate corners in soft green tones, creating a sense of refined, lived-in luxury. All Horizon Water Villas now feature a 22 sqm private pool and sunken sea...

Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort invites travelers to experience year-round sunshine with ‘Endless Summer’ exclusive offer

Known for its turquoise lagoons and soft white sands, the Maldives remains a top choice for travelers seeking the perfect island getaway. The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort is inviting guests to plan their next escape with its exclusive Endless Summer offer, crafted for those seeking perpetual sunshine, effortless island living, and holistic wellness. Available for booking until February 28, 2026, for stays through December 20, 2026, the offer requires a minimum four-night stay for two guests. It includes a Full Board meal plan with daily breakfast at Island Kitchen, plus lunch and dinner at Island Kitchen or Hawker. Guests will also enjoy a one-time dinner at The Pearl, the resort’s signature Japanese restaurant, set against breathtaking ocean views. Families are welcome, with children under 12 dining free, and each stay comes with USD 150 in resort credit to personalize the experience with spa treatments, excursions, or special dining. The wellness-focused package encourages guest...

Chinese New Year at Fushifaru Maldives: togetherness & never-ending feasts

This Chinese New Year, Fushifaru Maldives invites guests to celebrate the Year of the Horse with a festive island escape centred on togetherness, relaxation, and memorable dining experiences. From 15 to 17 February 2026, the resort will host a special Chinese New Year programme designed to enhance the holiday experience in a relaxed island setting. Guests can enjoy a daily Chinese Tea Corner at Fanihandhi Bar, offering a welcoming space to gather and unwind throughout the festivities, while selected spa treatments will be available with special savings during the celebration period. The highlight of the programme takes place on Lunar New Year’s Eve with a festive family BBQ dinner at Raakani Restaurant, bringing loved ones together over a generous spread in a warm, celebratory atmosphere. The evening continues with a spectacular fire show, symbolising prosperity, renewal, and a vibrant welcome to the Year of the Horse. As never-ending feasts are an essential part of Chinese New Year ce...

Visit Maldives showcases destination at Travel & Adventure Show New York 2026

Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC), in collaboration with the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Maldives to the United Nations in New York (PMNY), is showcasing the Maldives at the Travel & Adventure Show – New York, taking place on 24–25 January 2026 at the Javits Center. Recognised as one of the most influential travel forums in North America, the Travel & Adventure Show New York attracts over 20,000 attendees, including high-value travellers, leading travel advisors, industry professionals, and international media. The event provides a key platform to connect directly with American consumers seeking premium, experiential, and long-haul travel experiences. At the exhibition, Visit Maldives is engaging visitors through destination information sharing, interactive digital content addressing frequently asked travel queries, and a visitor survey designed to capture insights into North American travel trends. Attendees also have the opportunity to participate in a raffle giveaway...

Kandooma champions collaboration and partnership as the cornerstone of sustainability progress

  At a time when the global tourism industry is being called upon to take greater responsibility for its environmental and social footprint, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is reinforcing a clear message: “meaningful sustainability progress is not possible in isolation, collaboration, transparency and partnerships are essential to achieving long term impact.”   In 2025, the resort placed sustainability and regeneration firmly at the centre of its operations, taking the decisive step to be independently audited as part of the process to achieve Green Globe certification.  According to General Manager Mark Eletr, the process underscored the importance of working alongside likeminded partners to tackle some of the Maldives’ most complex sustainability challenges - particularly waste management.   “Waste is one of the most difficult aspects of sustainability for any island resort, but it is also a destination-wide challenge,” said Eletr. “As an archipelago, the Mald...

Crafted for eternity: a love story by The St. Regis Maldives and IVAR

This season, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort unveils an intimate celebration of love through an exclusive collaboration with IVAR Jewellery, where craftsmanship, emotion, and timeless romance converge. Rooted in shared values of artistry and enduring beauty, the partnership invites guests to experience love as something continuous, evolving, and deeply personal. At the heart of the collaboration is IVAR’s Infinity Collection, inspired by the simple yet profound symbol of a circle with no beginning and no end. Each piece captures love in its purest form—quiet, enduring, and ever-deepening. Designed to preserve fleeting moments in lasting form, the collection speaks to intimacy, connection, and the promise of forever. IVAR’s creations are born from the rich traditions of Indian craftsmanship, thoughtfully reinterpreted through a contemporary design lens. Shaped by skilled artisans using time-honored techniques, every jewel reflects a careful balance of heritage and modernity. Meant...

Curated moments for two: sunrise to sunset experiences at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef

At  Sun Siyam Vilu Reef , romance is woven into the rhythm of the island itself, unfolding gently from the first blush of sunrise to the soft glow of moonlight. This Valentine’s season, the boutique Maldivian hideaway invites couples to rediscover connection through a collection of immersive experiences crafted exclusively for lovers. Whether beginning the day with a serene lagoon breakfast at dawn or ending it beneath a starlit sky, every moment is designed to honour intimacy, celebrate togetherness and transform ordinary hours into unforgettable memories. Sunrise lagoon breakfast is a must have experience to commence your day in an unparalleled setting. The Sunrise Lagoon Breakfast features an inimitable breakfast layout delivered directly to the water, a setting where you can bask in the healing warmth of the first sunrays and the flawless sound of the waves. This experience is designed for couples who wish to savor an intimate and visually stunning start to their day.   As...

Visit Maldives showcases at FITUR 2026 in Madrid

Visit Maldives Corporation, (VMC) showcases Maldives at the first travel exhibition of the year, FITUR 2026, held from 21 January to 25 January, in Madrid, Spain. With global recognition as one of the world’s leading tourism fairs, FITUR provides an optimal environment for networking, industry engagement, and business development, attracting over 50,000 trade participants and exhibitors. The fair serves as a key meeting point for tourism professionals and a platform for both inbound and outbound international markets. In addition, it offers access to the sector’s largest business platforms, featuring expert-led forums and presentations on emerging trends, sustainability, and digital transformation in tourism. Alongside 25 co-exhibitors, the Maldives will be showcased in a stand designed around the destination’s evolving identity highlighting its natural beauty, luxury offerings, romantic experiences, and rich cultural heritage. The stand features destination visuals and experiences on ...

Ifuru Island Maldives recognized in top 100 hotels & resorts of 2025; general manager honored globally

Ifuru Island Maldives proudly celebrates an extraordinary achievement, earning recognition among the TOP 100 Hotels & Resorts of the World 2025 by the Luxury Lifestyle Awards for the second year in a row, marking another milestone in the resort’s journey of excellence.   Ifuru Island Maldives has been honored for the second consecutive year in the TOP 100 Hotels & Resorts of the World 2025, a prestigious accolade by the Luxury Lifestyle Awards that celebrates the “Best of the Best” in global hospitality. This recognition affirms the resort’s position as one of the world’s most distinguished properties, with a reputation for exceptional service and vibrant lifestyle offerings that bring the island experience to life.   Adding to this remarkable achievement, General Manager Marcel Sawyer has been recognized globally among the Top 100 General Managers of the World, highlighting his exceptional leadership and vision that have shaped Ifuru Island Maldives into a celebrated ...

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands announces Masters of Crafts residencies for 2026

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands unveils its highly anticipated Masters of Crafts program for 2026 in an inspired year-long celebration of artistry and innovation. From Michelin mastery by a collective of visiting Culinary Maestros, the finesse of the 50 Best in the Behind the Bar spotlights, restorative rituals of the resort's signature Essence of Balance wellness programming, to adventure, music and art. Residencies invite guests to engage with craft at its highest expression in one of the world’s most extraordinary locations.   United by a shared pursuit of excellence, inspirational masters will present fresh perspectives for guests in 2026. From learning to surf with a big wave champion, exploring stories of the night sky with an aurora chaser, indulging in the world’s finest sips and Michelin menus, to exclusive access to acclaimed artists and innovative wellness practitioners exploring the resort’s signature Blue Prescription, ‘leaving better’ is high on the agenda. ...

Big names, bigger smiles: football legends Fernando Torres and Mark Noble host kids’ football camp at Siyam World Maldives

Carefully planned yet effortlessly organic, Siyam World Maldives set the stage for two unforgettable football experiences as Fernando Torres and Mark Noble transformed the festive holidays into shared moments of play and discovery. Phones stayed tucked away, screens forgotten, and more than fifty young players found themselves fully present in moments of movement, laughter and island magic. Fernando Torres at Siyam World Over two sun-filled days, former World Cup champion Fernando Torres hosted an exclusive kids’ camp for resort guests, welcoming more than fifty young players aged between four and fourteen. Mornings that began in the lagoon naturally drifted onto the football pitch. Holidays quietly transformed into shared moments, relaxed, energetic and refreshingly free of whistles. Torres, affectionately known as El Niño, brought the same passion that saw him lift the World Cup with Spain and the Champions League with Chelsea just with a little more laughter and a lot more sand near...

Lily Beach Resort & Spa welcomes award-winning, three-Michelin-star recipient Chef Bruno Ménard for an exclusive Valentine’s Day culinary celebration

  Lily Beach Resort & Spa is set to host the world-renowned French chef Bruno Ménard, one of Asia’s most respected culinary icons, for an exclusive Valentine’s Day gastronomic experience this February. Chef Bruno Ménard is internationally acclaimed for earning three Michelin stars in Tokyo, held for five consecutive years, and brings with him over 35 years of exceptional savoir-faire and culinary expertise. Now based in Singapore, Chef Bruno is celebrated for his refined French techniques, modern interpretations, and meticulous attention to detail. On 14th February 2026, Lily Beach will present an intimate, romantic Valentine’s Day Signature Dinner, personally curated by Chef Bruno hosted at the elegant and award-winning Les Turquoise D’Aqua, from 7:30pm to 9:30pm. The venue is a recipient of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 2024, further reinforcing the strength, depth, and sophistication of its wine programme and bar offerings. This recognition perfectly complements the...

Alila Kothaifaru Maldives hosts an exclusive Mastroberardino wine dinner on a private sandbank

Alila Kothaifaru Maldives invites discerning wine connoisseurs and epicureans to an extraordinary evening of fine wine and gastronomy with an exclusive Mastroberardino Wine Dinner, taking place on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, at The Shack, the resort’s secluded sandbank venue. Set against the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, the intimate wine dinner celebrates Mastroberardino, one of Italy’s most historic and revered winemaking families, renowned for championing Campania’s native grape varieties since the mid-18th century. Led by Piero Mastroberardino, tenth-generation winemaker and a globally respected voice in Italian viticulture, the estate is internationally acclaimed for preserving and elevating iconic varietals such as Greco, Fiano, and Aglianico, including the prestigious Taurasi DOCG. Guests will embark on a curated gastronomic journey featuring a bespoke multi-course menu crafted by Executive Chef Frank, thoughtfully paired with a selection of Mastroberardino’s celebrated ...

Visit Maldives announces “Across Maldives 2026” – An ambitious underwater Record attempt

Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) has announced "Across Maldives 2026," an ambitious underwater record attempt by Maldivian diver Shafraz Naeem. Set to begin on January 23, 2026, the expedition marks the inaugural record attempt of the year for the Visit Maldives Book of Records. Across Maldives 2026 will see Shafraz attempt two records as he journeys underwater across three atolls. Over 15+ days, he will dive more than 450 kilometres, completing around 55 dives and spending over 90 hours underwater using a Diver Propulsion Vehicle (DPV). The official record categories include: Longest distance covered in open ocean on a single dive using a DPV Longest distance covered using a DPV within one month The initiative is designed to introduce a new era of adventure-based storytelling for the Maldives, positioning the nation as an Ocean Nation and a world-class destination for marine, adventure, and experiential tourism. The journey will highlight the Maldives’ unique underwater land...

Maldives outshines global giants in TripAdvisor’s elite ‘Best of the Best’ rankings

Maldives has once again cemented its status as a premier global destination, securing a prestigious spot in the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best awards for 2026. This elite accolade is reserved for the top 1% of TripAdvisor’s 8 million listings, representing the pinnacle of travel excellence. The rankings are determined by the quality and volume of traveler reviews over a 12-month period, highlighting destinations that consistently deliver "above-and-beyond" experiences. In this year’s global rankings, the Maldives outperformed several major international tourism hubs. The island nation earned a higher placement than Seoul, South Korea, Abu Dhabi, UAE, Budapest, Hungary. In addition to its overall destination ranking, the Maldives was named the 3rd Best Honeymoon Destination globally. This recognition highlights the Maldives' continued status as a leading destination for luxury and romance based on verified traveler feedback. TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Be...

Grand Park Kodhipparu named “Resort of the Year 2025” by Target Taste China

Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives, has been awarded Resort of the Year 2025 by Target Taste China, one of China’s most influential platforms celebrating excellence in hospitality, dining and experiential luxury.   The recognition places Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives among a select group of globally respected luxury resorts, acknowledged for their outstanding commitment to taste, craftsmanship and holistic guest experience. Winners were selected by Target Taste’s editorial and expert panel, known for its rigorous evaluation standards and strong influence among China’s high-end travel and lifestyle audiences.   Commenting on the recognition, Raffaele Solferino, General Manager of Grand Park Kodhipparu said: “We are honoured to receive this recognition from Target Taste China. As we celebrate our 9th year of operations, being named Resort of the Year is a meaningful endorsement of the passion, creativity and dedication of our team, and of our ongoing commitment to delivering expe...

Eight island escapes to savor endless summer in the Maldives

Known for its year-round sunshine, turquoise lagoons, and impossibly soft white sands, the Maldives continues to rank high on the bucket lists of travelers in search of an ideal island escape. As the year begins, Marriott Bonvoy invites travelers once again to plan their next escape to the Maldives through its ‘ Endless Summer ’ offer, designed for those seeking perpetual sunshine and effortless island living. Whether planning a romantic escape, a family getaway, or a restorative solo retreat, travelers can choose from Marriott Bonvoy’s collection of distinctive resorts across the Maldives and enjoy the benefits of this time-limited offer. Stays are elevated with thoughtful inclusions such as full-board dining with up to USD 300 in resort credit, along with complimentary non-motorized water sports at select properties, including paddleboarding, kayaking, windsurfing, and catamaran sailing. This exclusive offer is valid for two guests and available to book from now until February 28, 20...

Kandolhu Maldives announces culinary residency with renowned Peruvian chef Claudia Canessa

Kandolhu Maldives has announced its next culinary collaboration with the celebrated Lima-born chef, Claudia Canessa. From 30 April to 4 May 2026, guests will have the opportunity to savour the vibrant, authentic flavours of Peru, crafted by one of Peru's most dynamic culinary artists.   Chef Canessa brings a wealth of experience and distinctive culinary artistry to Kandolhu Island. She is renowned for her Peruvian cuisine infused with Swiss restraint at Amaru restaurant in St. Moritz – a bespoke restaurant created especially for her and designed by the acclaimed Luke Edward Hall. Her approach to cooking is both innovative and deeply rooted in the traditions of her beloved Peru, earning her global admiration for the exquisite balance she brings to her signature ceviche creations.   Her cuisine draws inspiration from South America, the refined subtleties of Japan, and the vibrant energy of Mexico. After living in Switzerland for many years, Claudia credits her adopted homeland w...