Amilla Maldives was crowned best Accessible Holidays Provider of the Year 2024 at the TTG Travel Industry Awards in London.
The Maldives can be challenging for people with mobility issues as all travel within the country is by boat, seaplane, or domestic flight but Amilla aims to make the island accessible to everyone.
The resort was chosen because it has many great programmes for including and helping people with different needs providing an excellent service to those who are physically or mentally disabled and or ongoing medical conditions.
Narelle McDougall, the resort’s general manager said: “We are extremely grateful and delighted to win this award. It is a testament to our team’s positive attitude and dedication to help our guests of all abilities experience the beauty of the Maldives.
“We are champions of responsible hospitality. We believe in environmental sustainability and inclusivity for all; removing barriers; engaging and investing in local community, culture, employment and empowerment.
“This recognition is praise for our team’s commitment to wellbeing, inclusivity and sustainability. Maldives might still be considered a bucket list, or once-in-a-lifetime trip. We strongly feel that having accessibility needs should not mean that you cannot take that dreamed-of idyllic island holiday.”
Amilla has welcomed families from around the world with various needs, adopting an inclusive approach to allow ‘guests feel truly seen and heard’.
The resort has made changes for accessibility in the villas for wheelchair users and continues to improve the experience for all guests, including those with mobility or sensory challenges. The resort also offers social stories for guests, as well as fidget boxes and touchless spa treatments and a dietary lifestyle choices programme for people with dysphagia. The team receives training on mental health and hidden disabilities. Furthermore, Amilla staff have My Happy Mind Training to understand hidden disabilities like Autism and ADHD.
Narelle added: “We have a lot of feedback from guests, I think this sums up that sentiment… this from a guest who has MND “…the moment we arrived at Male’ airport and saw the Amilla team waiting we all felt so held, relieved and supported and that nothing was too much effort. Every member of staff was exceptional, and it was clear that there has been excellent disability awareness training….”
Amilla is a Small Luxury Hotels’ Considerate Collection member with an EarthCheck silver certification, committed to luxury and sustainability. In 2024, Forbes Travel Guide recognised Amilla as the “Responsible Hospitality Partner of the Year” for its commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental sustainability. The resort is also IncluCare-certified and part of the Conscious Travel Foundation. They also hold Badge Access Awards for Best International Venue and the Forbes Responsible Hospitality Partner of the Year 2024 awarded by Hervé Houdré, Forbes Travel Guide’s Global Ambassador for Responsible Tourism.
Narelle added: “We’ve made minimal investments in equipment and modifications, but have brought immense joy to our guests by listening to their needs and making them feel special. What sets Amilla Maldives apart is our passionate commitment to inclusivity.
“The resort will look to build on this success and we are constantly learning, listening and adapting.”
All photos: Amilla Maldives
