S Hotels & Resorts will aim to showcase the cultural charm of the Maldives as part of its most ambitious development to date and the first phase of the Crossroads Maldives integrated leisure and resort destination.

Scheduled to open in summer 2019, the project will encompass three independent islands fringing the Emboodhoo Lagoon in the pristine South Malé Atoll, just 15 minutes by speedboat from Malé International Airport.

Upon completion, Crossroads will offer two captivating hotels, Saii Lagoon Maldives and Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, plus a wide range of facilities centred upon The Marina @Crossroads, an 11,000 square metre lifestyle, retail and dining destination.

Crossroads Maldives is aptly named and specifically master-planned as a global meeting place where travellers from around the world can experience authentic Maldivian culture from the past to the present.

The Maldives enjoys a unique geographical position in an historically significant area of the Indian Ocean. 

From being a stop-off point for trading ships between Europe, Africa and Asia, to its current status as a global tourism hotspot, the islands of the Maldives have always been a place where different cultures meet.

“The Maldives is a truly beautiful destination - a tropical island paradise where guests can fulfil their vacation dreams.

“But there is more to this enchanting country than just sun, sea and sand.

“The Maldives has a rich history that has been shaped by its unique maritime location at the crossroads of different cultures.

“The facilities that make up phase one of Crossroads Maldives will encourage guests to delve deep into the diversity of the destination, while also embracing the country’s exquisite natural beauty,” commented Dirk de Cuyper, chief hospitality officer, S Hotels & Resorts.

The architecture and design of Crossroads Maldives will also reflect the country’s historical influences and the developers will actively engage with local communities to create the win-win combination of authentic guest experiences and empowerment.

Central to this concept will be the Maldives Discovery Centre, a cultural attraction that will showcase Maldivian customs and cultures through interactive displays, video and hands on experiential adventures.

The centre will also display and sell handcrafted products created by local people, women in particular.

The overall aim is to create mutual and sustainable benefits for long-term prosperity of the entire area.

S Hotels & Resorts is a subsidiary Thailand’s Singha Estate.