Maldivian island customers offered alternative bookings

Guests and staff were evacuated from the luxury resort after the fire broke out at about 11pm local time on January 2, destroying several of its over-water villas.

According to the Maldives National Defence Force, strong winds meant the fire spread quickly through the resort’s thatched properties. The cause remains unknown. All guests and staff have been accounted for, and alternative accommodation arranged.

Kerry Golds, managing director of A&K UK, said: “We had a small number of clients affected by the closure, all of whom are in the process of being rebooked on alternate holidays, selected from our luxury Maldives portfolio.

“We would like to thank Gili Lankanfushi, a much-valued partner of A&K, for their assistance during this time and look forward to their reopening.”

A Kuoni spokesperson added: “We have a small number of guests due to travel over the next few months.

“We’ve been in touch with them all to advise them of the situation and that we are working with Gili Lankanfushi to source a suitable alternative for them, and that we will get back to them as soon as possible with recommendations.”

The resort took to Twitter over the weekend to thank well-wishers for their “love, concern and encouragement” following the blaze, which destroyed seven over-water villas and a restaurant.

On its website, the resort has also detailed options available to guests who were due to stay, including holding bookings or offering refunds.

In a statement, it added: “We understand Gili Lankanfushi holds a special place in many of your hearts and, while there is a challenging recovery period ahead, we are confident about the island’s bright future and look forward to welcoming you back at the earliest opportunity.”