360 Degree World

Underwater cabinet meeting held in Maldives to spread climate change awareness

2009-10-29T08:55:57Z

In a unique move to spread awareness about the serious effects of global climate change, the President of Maldives, Mohamed Nasheed and his Cabinet met at an underwater arrangement to highlight the threat that Maldives is facing. They wore scuba gear and used hand signals to ‘discuss’ the problem.

The meeting took place 16 feet below the water and bubbles ascended from their masks as fishes swam around the members. In this one of a kind meeting, the Cabinet signed a declaration calling for global cuts in carbon emissions. This declaration will be brought before the U.N. climate summit in Copenhagen, Denmark, in the month of December.

Maldives faces a very real and tangible threat from the climate change. It is possible that the whole of the island country will be submerged under the sea if the current pace of climate change remains constant. Most of the 1000 odd islands of Maldives lie no more than 2.5 meters above the sea level. The United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel of Climate Change believes that the sea will rise at least 7.1 inches by the end of this century.

It is for this reason that the President called the meeting – to send out a message about the threat to Maldives. The ministers signed their wet suits, which are being auctioned. This auction money will be used to protect Maldives.

Mohamed Nasheed has also raised the possibility of investing in new lands for the country, for future. Countries being considered for this investment are India, Sri Lanka and even Australia.

How easy would it be to make Maldives carbon neutral?

2009-10-29T08:54:40Z

Maldives today has become one of the most sought after holiday destinations for people from all around the world. The little island nation has gained a worldwide reputation wholly due to its tourist attractions that attract visitors to the sun, the sea and the white sands of the land.

However, the Maldivian President Mr. Mohamed Nasheed, along with other scientists has pointed out that the global climate change will have a major effect on the environment. He holds the view that the Maldives faces the greatest challenge of all due to the rapid changes in climate. Since its highest point is 2.4 meters above sea level, the whole country of Maldives can be submerged under water within 100 years, if man-made climate change continues. It is for this reason that Nasheed publicly promised that he would bring about major changes in the country. He announced that the country would lead the way by turning carbon neutral in ten years.

Since this announcement was made, Maldives has signed an agreement to pioneer carbon capture technology by trapping carbon dioxide in burned coconuts. Unfortunately however, the whole scheme does not seem feasible owing to the fact that Maldives is completely dependant upon tourism for its economy.

Though Maldives can come up with resorts that run on solar energy but they cannot use green aircrafts to ply visitors from the mainland. This means that flights to the Maldives from all around the world will keep pouring in and so will carbon dioxide.

Restricting flights to Maldives would mean that tourism in the country would come to a complete standstill. The Maldives’ aim to achieve a carbon neutral status without affecting tourism is indeed a tough job in hand.

New branding strategy for Mauritius to boost tourism

2009-10-29T08:54:13Z

Mauritius will now attract even more visitors, due to the launch of the new ‘Brand Strategy’ of the island. The Brand strategy was officially launched at Citadelle, in the uphill of Port-Louis. The phrase “Mauritius C’est un plaisir” (Mauritius-It’s a Pleasure) will also accompany the branding strategy.

Speaking to about 1500 honored guests – Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam addresses the unveiling as “a decisive moment!” The logo used in the branding strategy harps upon the key selling features of Mauritius. It incorporates the mystical and timeless mountain “Pieter Both” of Mauritius and the four colors, which symbolize the island’s harmonious diversity.

Indeed, a visit to Mauritius, as the slogan says, “is a pleasure”. The new strategy serves to build up a new and much stronger international image. This will definitely go on to add value to Mauritius as a primary tourist destination. While unveiling this new branding strategy, the Prime Minister points out that the healthy business environment and the stable economy of Mauritius makes tourists feel safe and at home in this island country. The hospitality and keen sense of value among the populace also contribute to the popularity of this island nation.

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu offers a unique Island Afternoons Package

2010-08-29T06:29:50Z

The Coco Palm resort at Dhuni Kolhu in Maldives offers its guests a unique way of tasting and experiencing the true Maldivian culture and lifestyle. You can now have a feel of the life in Maldives – up, close and personal by joining a local family at their home for an evening tea and dinner.

By availing this ‘Island Afternoons Package’, you can spend your time with a real Maldivian family. After the evening tea, you can go for some sightseeing while you join the family for an evening walk. After you are done with your local shopping and other activities, you can go back with the family to their home, where you can help them to prepare a typical Maldivian dinner. Once you are done enjoying the sumptuous preparation, you will be brought back to Coco Palm.

This excursion package costs USD 100 for two and includes evening tea, a typical Maldivian dinner and two bottles of water.

Naladhu Homes offer Early Bird Special Price

2009-10-26T16:15:29Z

The Naladhu Beach House or Sea House experience is truly unique and you can now enjoy this amazing escape into paradise at reduced early bird special rates. If you book 15 days in advance, between 1 October 2009 and 26 December 2009, you will be entitled to a 25% off on the rate of the house.

If you book 45 days in advance, between 11 January 2010 and 10 May 2010, you will be entitled to 10% off on Naladhu rates. This package includes the beach or ocean house, a House Master at your service and a breakfast served to you by the House Master.

The Ocean House rate is USD 1475 and the Beach House can be booked for USD 1730. This rate is for a maximum of two people and is subject to 10% service charge and Maldives government bed tax, which is USD 8 per person per night. Also, note that if you are staying at Naladhu on 24 December, you will have to appear for a compulsory Christmas Gala Dinner at USD 320 per adult. Again, if you are staying over on 31 December, you will have to be there for the compulsory New Year Gala Dinner at USD 380 per adult.

The relaxed atmosphere of the Naladhu homes, the exotic luxury and the serenity of the sea will make your stay truly memorable.