Marco Den Ouden, GM of Patina Maldives Fari Islands, does not believe in Googling people, and this undoubtedly helps attract real top-flight celebs. “Look, privacy is an important reason why knowledgable travellers choose to stay here rather than elsewhere in the Maldives,” says the charismatic Dutchman, a would-be artist who was diverted to hospitality.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has landed in the Maldives with the highly-anticipated opening of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands this week.

Capella Hotel Group’s new elevated lifestyle brand, Patina Hotels & Resorts, has this week opened its launch property in the Maldives.