A Fusion of Culture and Conscious Living (18–22 February)
JOALI BEING, the Maldives’ first dedicated wellbeing island, has announced an exclusive culinary residency with Chef Kelvin Cheung to mark the Lunar New Year 2026. From 18 to 22 February, the award-winning pioneer of “Third Culture” cuisine-celebrated by the MICHELIN Guide and MENA’s 50 Best-will host a series of immersive dining experiences rooted in the spirit of renewal and balance.
For Let’s Go Maldives (LGM) trade partners, this residency represents a premier opportunity to book HNWIs and families seeking a holiday that blends world-class gastronomy with the island’s signature “Well-Living” philosophy.
The “Third Culture” Philosophy
Chef Kelvin Cheung’s culinary voice is a narrative of his global identity-born in Canada, raised in Chicago, and now leading the acclaimed Jun’s Dubai. His philosophy melds Chinese heritage, North American influences, and classical French training into a style that is:
- Instinctive & Thoughtful: Focused on memory and identity through flavor.
- Balanced: Aligning with JOALI BEING’s pillars of Mind, Skin, Microbiome, and Energy.
- Sustainable: Highlighting local Maldivian ingredients with a deep respect for land and ocean.
Residency Highlights: Culinary Storytelling
The program is designed to engage guests through both private and communal settings, ensuring food serves as a bridge for connection.
| Event | Location | Target Audience |
| Signature Dinners | FLOW Restaurant | Couples & Gastronomes |
| Culinary Masterclasses | Culinary Learning Centre | Adults & Teens |
| B’Kidult Cooking Class | Kids’ Club | Children (Age 4-12) |
| Lunar Tea Rituals | SAI Tea Lounge | All Ages |
Highlight for Families: Inspired by Chef Kelvin’s bond with his own son, the Kids-Only Cooking Class focuses on building confidence and self-expression, proving that “well-living” begins with joyful exploration at any age.
A Two-Week Lunar New Year Celebration
Chef Kelvin’s residency is the crown jewel of a broader two-week Lunar New Year festival at JOALI BEING.
- Festive Traditions: Authentic Hot Pot gatherings, traditional red-envelope rituals, and sunset gatherings.
- Wellbeing Rituals: Guided sound baths, herbology workshops at AKTAR, and marine conservation adventures.
- Active Living: Recreational sports and nature-based discovery sessions across the lush Raa Atoll landscape.
The “Residence Escape” Offer: Perfect for Families
To accommodate groups traveling for the Spring Festival, JOALI BEING highlights its Residence Escape Offer for the island’s three- and four-bedroom residences.
Trade Benefit: Groups booking a minimum of 4 nights in a Residence can save up to 33%, with inclusive benefits such as:
- Complimentary Half-Board: Daily gourmet breakfast and dinner at FLOW.
- Kids Stay & Dine Free: Valid for up to two children under 12.
- Dedicated Butler: Private “Jadugar” (Lifestyle Host) service for seamless family coordination.
- Inclusive Workshops: Personalised group Mind & Movement classes and AKTAR herbology sessions.
Why This Matters for the Travel Trade
JOALI BEING is currently ranked among the Top 5 Wellness Hotels Worldwide by the MICHELIN Guide.
- High-Yield Potential: The residency drives demand for high-category residences during the peak Lunar New Year window.
- Unique Positioning: It offers a “Refined Festive” alternative to high-energy resorts, appealing to repeat Maldives visitors who value privacy and purpose.
- Seamless Access: Roundtrip seaplane transfers from Velana International Airport (VIA) into the secluded Raa Atoll.
Partner with Lets Go Maldives (LGM)
As a specialized partner for JOALI BEING, Lets Go Maldives (LGM) provides trade partners with priority access to the Chef Kelvin Cheung residency and exclusive Residence Escape rates.
