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10 INTERVIEW HOSPITALITY BIZ NOVEMBER, 2024
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‘India is a key visitor source for the

Maldives, and we’ve customised

our offerings to meet their needs’

The Indian market is essential as we target capturing 15% to 20% market

share across our resorts by offering customised dining and specialised
wedding services to attract both couples and families, says Jay Ahmed,

Chief Operating Officer, THE COCOON Collection Maldives and
Zanzibar, in a conversation with Prasenjit Chakraborty.

Q You have carried out extensive upgrades to Cocoon Maldives culture and traditions. One of our key initiatives is the Maldivian
recently. What changes have you implemented to enhance the
Night, where guests can immerse themselves in the vibrant culture
guest experience? through traditional performances and festivities. We also celebrate local
We have made significant enhancements to elevate the guest experience cuisine by inviting local women to prepare authentic Maldivian dishes,
at Cocoon Maldives. For guests seeking exclusivity, our additional five offering guests a true taste of the islands. These events allow our guests
luxurious Beach Suites now feature private pools, offering unparalleled to experience the rich heritage and traditions of the Maldives in an
privacy and uninterrupted views from the garden to the beach and interactive way.
ocean—a true retreat for relaxation.
Adventure seekers will enjoy our enhanced Lagoon Suites, with five Q What initiatives does Cocoon Maldives have in place to promote
additional suites now featuring private pools and 10 Lagoon Suites sustainability and environmental conservation within the resort?
equipped with exciting water slides. These suites provide the perfect On December 2022, we launched the Cocoon Foundation, which
balance of excitement and tranquillity, all while overlooking the lagoon, focuses on three key pillars- Economy, Education, and Environment. The
ocean, and breathtaking sunsets. foundation is dedicated to supporting local communities, particularly in
For wellness-focused guests, our state-of-the-art gym and the newly the Lhaviyani, Raa, and Kaafu Atolls. Through the foundation, we conduct
introduced Sunset Yoga Pavilion offer ideal settings for both fitness training sessions, host school visits from nearby islands, and provide
enthusiasts and those seeking inner peace. The serene atmosphere of the leadership and confidence-building skills to young people aspiring to
pavilion, paired with stunning sunset views, makes each yoga session a careers in hospitality.
rejuvenating experience. We prioritise local products to support the economy, invest in renewable
Loabi Loabi Bar now offers exquisite cocktails in a vibrant social setting, energy, and introduce a solar system to reduce fuel use.
while Kurum Bar’s chic revamp creates a sophisticated sunset venue.
Villas feature fresh paint, luxurious furnishings, upgraded fixtures, and Q What are your plans regarding the Indian market? How
high-quality mattresses for an enhanced stay. important is the Indian market for Cocoon Maldives?
The Indian market is vital to us, and we aim to capture 15% to 20% of the
Q Can you describe any unique experiences or services that set market share across our resorts. India is a key source of arrivals to the
Cocoon Maldives apart from other resorts in the Maldives?
Maldives, and we’ve tailored our offerings to cater to this demographic.
Cocoon Maldives seamlessly blends exquisite Italian design with the From customised dining experiences to specialised wedding services,
natural beauty of the Maldives. The interiors were crafted by renowned we aim to appeal to both romantic couples and families. Our recent
designer Daniele Lago from LAGO, one of Italy’s leading design firms, marketing events in Mumbai and Delhi have strengthened our
offering a unique fusion of modern elegance and natural surroundings. relationships with partners and showcased the diverse experiences
Our all-inclusive meal plan and dining experiences combine Cocoon Maldives offers.
international flavours with local Maldivian and Asian influences across
a variety of venues. Guests can savour gourmet seafood, Japanese Q What are your future plans for Cocoon Maldives, and how do you
teppanyaki, and Italian delicacies, with the option of personalised envision the resort evolving in the next few years?
destination dining under the stars. Our future plans include expanding into both the ultra-luxury and
As far as Health and Wellness are concerned, Cocoon’s Cube Spa mainstream segments, enabling us to offer diverse experiences for a wide
provides therapeutic treatments to rejuvenate mind, body, and spirit, range of travellers. We aim to enhance our portfolio with a mix of 4-star to
using premium natural products. Enjoy steam rooms, saunas, a Jacuzzi, a ultra-luxury accommodations, ensuring that all guests—whether they seek
relaxing area, and a pool with advanced heating and cooling technology. adventure or relaxation—have a memorable and unique experience.
Our future strategy emphasises learning and development, collaborating
Q How does the resort incorporate local culture and traditions into with industry experts to provide world-class training that empowers staff
the guest experience?
and enhances guest experiences n
At Cocoon Maldives, we emphasize reconnecting guests with the local prasenjit.chakraborty@saffronsynergies.in

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