My recent Maldives stay at both Four Seasons properties revealed much about the gorgeous ocean besides the stunning diving. Both resorts have dedicated marine biologists on staff in their Marine Centers – both have pools with rescued turtles, both have interactive research and education programs. Very likable fact, kids can pop in on their own and learn how they can have a role in conserving the local and global marine ecosystems. There is always a biologist on hand to personalize a tour, but I love that kids can wander in and explore on their own. It is also the headquarters of the Maldivian Sea Turtle Conservation Program that simultaneously works to monitor, protect, rehabilitate and increase awareness of turtle conservation throughout the Maldives, as well as rear turtle hatchlings until they grow big and strong enough to protect themselves in the wild.

Four Seasons Maldives Turtle

Coral Cage – Mine! Four Seasons Kuda Huraa

The hotel properties host and support these venues, an important example of their dedication in their local home environment and to the global awareness of ever growing climate issues. The stunning azure waters surrounding Four Seasons Resorts Maldives are home to stretches of delicate coral reef. In 1998, 90% of Maldivian shallow-water corals were bleached and killed by unusually warm waters caused by an exceptionally strong El Niño. At that time, Four Seasons enlisted the help of Seamarc Pvt. Ltd to see what could be done to help these ailing reefs and generate new ones. The resulting coral propagation project has grown to become one of the most successful of its kind in the world, having transplanted over 60,000 fragments of coral between 2005 and 2009 alone.

Reefscapers offers guests the unique opportunity to participate in the building of the coral reefs. Venture out into the lagoon to witness the pioneering work of Reefscapers. You can also join a Build-a-Reef session in the Marine Discovery Centre, where you can even sponsor your very own coral frame and watch it grow on the Marine Savers website.  See my coral cage above!

Hospitality is more than hosting guests, it should always include giving back to local communities and the Four Seasons Kuda Huraa and Landaa Giraavaru Resorts are both prime examples of this endeavor.