Latest news with #tropicalparadise
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Inside the abandoned Maldives resort
By The world might know the Maldives for its picture-postcard villas, turquoise waters, and once-in-a-lifetime luxury escapes. But one island in the middle of this tropical paradise tells a completely different story - one of decay, mystery, and ambitious plans left abandoned. In a video uploaded to YouTube in 2023, Australian filmmaker and surfer Kale Brock explained that while on the retreat in the Maldives, he and his group had spotted a 'mysterious' island in the distance and convinced their guide to take them there. What they discovered was straight out of a movie - more Jurassic Park than five-star luxury getaway. In incredible footage, which has since amassed over 180,000 views, Brock takes viewers on a surreal tour through a deserted resort that looks like it was evacuated mid-build. Eerie scenes show the group wandering through half-finished villas, piles of debris and broken toilets, dilapidated rooms with unpowered generators, and murky, unkempt pools teeming with algae. Walking through the ruins, Brock captures everything from unopened spa equipment still in boxes, to massage tables covered in dust and junk, to filthy pools thick with plant life. Standing above what would have been a centrepiece pool, Brock added: 'Just imagine the views and the vibes, the aesthetics this place would have.' In one spot, the group find an old Mazda and Nissan, which appear not to have moved in years, before moving on to what appears to be a generator room, complete with a bizarre row of machines. Brock listed a number of Hollywood blockbusters he was reminded of while exploring the ruins, including Ghostbusters, Jurassic Park and Lost. But perhaps the most haunting part of the tour were the ghostly remains of what would've been the resort's showstoppers - overwater bungalows meant to charge $5,000 a night. Now, they're nothing more than skeletons of wood and steel, with scenes showing Brock ambling along the concrete foundation of what would have been an iconic wooden walkway. As he looked out across the water, he noted: 'World-class lives one kilometre away.' Meanwhile, a Maldivian woman who spent almost 10 years working in the tourism sector at the hugely popular holiday destination has shared her hidden gems and budget tips . The mother-of-one had worked tirelessly behind the scenes, including long hours while raising her seven-month-old daughter in the process. Now 32, she is happily married and has quit the tourism industry to launch a freelancer app that aims to 'connect Maldivians across the islands'. She has also shared her top tips with keen travellers - including one hidden gem island that is perfect for those travelling on a budget. Taking to web forum Reddit, in reply to another user's question about 'tricks for a budget trip', she explained: 'Travel to a local island and stay at a guesthouse.'
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Inside the eerie abandoned resort in the Maldives - with rotting overwater villas but still breathtaking views
The world might know the Maldives for its picture-postcard villas, turquoise waters, and once-in-a-lifetime luxury escapes. But one island in the middle of this tropical paradise tells a completely different story - one of decay, mystery, and ambitious plans left abandoned. In a video uploaded to YouTube in 2023, Australian filmmaker and surfer Kale Brock explained that while on the retreat in the Maldives, he and his group had spotted a 'mysterious' island in the distance and convinced their guide to take them there. What they discovered was straight out of a movie - more Jurassic Park than five-star luxury getaway. In incredible footage, which has since amassed over 180,000 views, Brock takes viewers on a surreal tour through a deserted resort that looks like it was evacuated mid-build. Eerie scenes show the group wandering through half-finished villas, piles of debris and broken toilets, dilapidated rooms with unpowered generators, and murky, unkempt pools teeming with algae. According to Brock, the island was reportedly owned by a prominent Maldivian politician, with construction starting over a decade ago. He said: 'They were building for two years then for "political reasons." We don't really know, ostensibly maybe they ran out of money. They've literally abandoned the project… There's bathtubs in unopened but deteriorating boxes.' Walking through the ruins, Brock captures everything from unopened spa equipment still in boxes, to massage tables covered in dust and junk, to filthy pools thick with plant life. Standing above what would have been a centrepiece pool, Brock added: 'Just imagine the views and the vibes, the aesthetics this place would have.' In one spot, the group find an old Mazda and Nissan, which appear not to have moved in years, before moving on to what appears to be a generator room, complete with a bizarre row of machines. Brock listed a number of Hollywood blockbusters he was reminded of while exploring the ruins, including Ghostbusters, Jurassic Park and Lost. But perhaps the most haunting part of the tour were the ghostly remains of what would've been the resort's showstoppers - overwater bungalows meant to charge $5,000 a night. Now, they're nothing more than skeletons of wood and steel, with scenes showing Brock ambling along the concrete foundation of what would have been an iconic wooden walkway. As he looked out across the water, he noted: 'World-class lives one kilometre away.' Meanwhile, a Maldivian woman who spent almost 10 years working in the tourism sector at the hugely popular holiday destination has shared her hidden gems and budget tips. According to Brock, the island was reportedly owned by a prominent Maldivian politician, with construction starting over a decade ago Now, they're nothing more than skeletons of wood, concrete and steel sitting above the water The mother-of-one had worked tirelessly behind the scenes, including long hours while raising her seven-month-old daughter in the process. Now 32, she is happily married and has quit the tourism industry to launch a freelancer app that aims to 'connect Maldivians across the islands'. She has also shared her top tips with keen travellers - including one hidden gem island that is perfect for those travelling on a budget.
Yahoo
17-05-2025
- Yahoo
Create Your Own Journey by the Sea at Crowne Plaza Phu Quoc Starbay
An Ideal Phu Quoc Family Resort for a School Break Getaway PHU QUOC, Vietnam, May 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- With the school holiday season fast approaching, Crowne Plaza Phu Quoc Starbay invites families to reconnect, recharge, and create unforgettable memories in a tropical paradise. Positioned on the tranquil northwestern coast of Phu Quoc Island, this beachfront resort blends relaxation and adventure, offering the perfect escape for families seeking quality time under the sun. Whether looking to dive into exhilarating attractions or simply unwind by the ocean, Crowne Plaza Phu Quoc Starbay is designed for all ages. Conveniently located near top destinations such as Phu Quoc's largest theme park and safari, Grand World Night Market, and Phu Quoc's premier golf courses and casino, families enjoy seamless access to the best things to do in Phu Quoc. Family-Friendly Experiences Await Young explorers will be thrilled by Tribe Kid's Club & Games Room, which offers supervised indoor and outdoor activities. Crowne Plaza Phu Quoc Starbay also provides all-day children's activities located in various spots throughout the resort. For more extensive fun, families can venture to VinWonders - Vietnam's leading theme park packed with thrilling rides, immersive cultural exhibits, and engaging entertainment zones for all ages. Just a 5-minute drive from the resort, it is perfect opportunity to experience Vinpearl Safari - Vietnam's largest wildlife conservation park, which is ranked second among zoos and aquariums in Asia, as recognised by Tripadvisor. After a day of island adventure, unwind with the whole family in the spacious Two Bedroom Suite. Just steps from the pool, kid's club, spa & gym, this spacious 200 square metre retreat offers a private garden terrace, a king room adjoined to a twin room, and a separate living area—ideal for shared moments and family relaxation. For those who wish to embrace the sea breeze, the Ocean View Room and Oceanfront Suite provide a tranquil space to soak in the panoramic beauty of Phu Quoc's sparkling coastline. Savour Every Moment with Memorable Dining No getaway is complete without memorable dining. At Crowne Plaza Phu Quoc Starbay, families can indulge in global flavours at two signature restaurants. Horizons Restaurant & Bar: Mediterranean-inspired dishes, daily buffet breakfasts, and BBQ nights. Amber Sands Beach Club: A stylish beachfront dining experience featuring fresh Vietnamese seafood and international cuisine, complemented by Phu Quoc's breathtaking sunsets. IHG One Rewards members enjoy even more benefits, with 20% off dining, plus earn 100 bonus points for every USD 10 spent. Family Adventure by the Sea While parents unwind at Hoa Sim Spa, children can engage in a variety of activities at the resort. From playful moments in the Games Room through free PlayStation battles and Monopoly competition, to the beach activities like water gun fights, kite flying, and volleyball, there is plenty to keep children entertained. For those who love to get creative, paid creative workshops is a chance to explore Finger Drawing Art, Origami, and Coconut Leaves Art. Stay energised at the 24-hour gym, thoughtfully designed to provide a refreshing fitness environment. Enjoy state-of-the-art equipment in a serene space filled with natural sunlight, which helps maintain focus and promote refreshed feeling throughout workout. Crowne Plaza Phu Quoc Starbay ensures every stay is seamless, comfortable, and welcoming by providing complimentary scheduled airport shuttles and multilingual service. To make the family holiday even more memorable, Crowne Plaza Phu Quoc Starbay is offering a selection of exclusive summer packages designed with comfort, convenience, and unforgettable experiences in mind, including the School Break Getaway (starting from VND 3,000,000++/night), which includes daily breakfast for two adults and two children (under 12) and a VND 600,000 credit for Tribe Kids Club and resort activities. For those seeking relaxation, Crowne Plaza Phu Quoc Starbay offers the Relax & Rewards package (starting from VND 4,100,000++/night), featuring daily buffet breakfast, a 60-minute tension soother treatment for two adults, and 3,000 IHG One Rewards Points per night. Experience adventure and relaxation at Crowne Plaza Phu Quoc Starbay with your loved ones now by mailing us at About Crowne Plaza® Hotels & Resorts Crowne Plaza® Hotels & Resorts is one of the fastest growing hotel brands globally. At Crowne Plaza® we're expert in helping guests to do business better, combining empowered colleague service, always-on connectivity, innovative rooms and flexible co-working spaces. All this helps guests to be productive, feel energised and build meaningful relationships with their clients and colleagues, or travelling companions. Beautifully equipped rooms, signature Sleep Advantage® programme, 24-hour fitness facilities, stylish meeting & event facilities and on-site restaurants & bars. At Crowne Plaza hotels we deliver an experience that's design-led, tech-enabled and culturally relevant to the world of modern business & leisure travel; meaning guests can recharge and be inspired in their downtime and worktime. For more information, visit and connect with us on: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: About IHG Hotels & Resorts IHG Hotels & Resorts is a global organisation with a broad portfolio of hotel brands, including Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, Regent Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Hotel Indigo, EVEN Hotels, HUALUXE Hotels and Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, voco, Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn Express, Holiday Inn Club Vacations, avid hotels, Staybridge Suites, Atwell Suites, and Candlewood Suites. IHG franchises, leases, manages or owns nearly 6,000 hotels and 890,000 guest rooms in more than 100 countries, with approximately 1,900 hotels in its development pipeline. IHG also manages IHG Rewards, our global loyalty programme, which has more than 100 million enrolled members. InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group's holding company and is incorporated in Great Britain and registered in England and Wales. Approximately 400,000 people work across IHG's hotels and corporate offices globally. Visit for hotel information and reservations and for more on IHG Rewards. For our latest news, visit our Newsroom and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Crowne Plaza Phu Quoc Starbay Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
