The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort has confirmed the return of its Tastemaker Series for 2026, revealing a high-profile programme of globally recognised chefs, wellness practitioners, mixologists and tennis legends—further strengthening the resort’s position as one of the Maldives’ most culturally immersive luxury destinations. This page may contain affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Designed to foster meaningful guest interaction rather than one-off appearances, the 2026 Tastemaker Series brings together culinary artistry, holistic wellbeing and elite sport across the year, transforming the private island resort into a hub for creativity, excellence and personal connection.
A Global Showcase of Talent Across Cuisine, Wellness and Sport
The 2026 Tastemaker Series reflects The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort’s ongoing commitment to experiential luxury, where guests engage directly with influential figures shaping their fields.
The programme spans:
- Michelin-calibre culinary experiences
- World-class mixology and fine wine storytelling
- Holistic wellness and energy healing
- Elite tennis coaching and immersive sporting encounters
Each residency is curated to feel intimate, purposeful and deeply aligned with the resort’s refined yet relaxed island setting.
January 2026: Gianluca Renzi Opens the Season with Italian Elegance
The season begins in January with celebrated Italian chef Gianluca Renzi, whose residency blends heritage, technique and conviviality.
Guests can expect:
- Wine-led fine-dining experiences
- A hands-on gnocchi masterclass
- A signature ocean-view dinner showcasing modern Italian cuisine
Renzi’s presence sets the tone for the year—classic yet contemporary, sophisticated without formality.
February 2026: Wellness, Mixology and Mindful Rejuvenation
Akiko Igarashi Returns as Visiting Wellness Practitioner
From February 9 to 23, renowned holistic therapist Akiko Igarashi returns to the resort, offering restorative wellness experiences shaped by decades of practice.
Her programme includes:
- Tibetan Singing Bowl healing journeys
- Reiki treatments
- Bespoke couples’ wellness sessions
Each experience is designed to encourage emotional balance, inner stillness and long-lasting wellbeing.
Felice Capasso Brings World-Class Mixology to The Whale Bar
Also in February, World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2025 Felice Capasso headlines the beverage programme with:
- A signature bar takeover at The Whale Bar
- An interactive masterclass exploring flavour, spirits and storytelling
Capasso’s approach places creativity and narrative at the centre of contemporary mixology.
March 2026: Angelique Kerber Brings Elite Tennis to the Island
In March, the Tastemaker Series shifts to world-class sport with the arrival of Angelique Kerber, former World No. 1 and multiple Grand Slam champion.
Her residency features:
- Private coaching sessions
- A dedicated children’s tennis clinic
- On-court interactions and meet-and-greet moments
Kerber’s approachable style and elite insight appeal to both seasoned players and enthusiastic amateurs.
April 2026: Michelin-Starred British Cuisine with Glynn Purnell
April sees Michelin-starred chef Glynn Purnell bring his modern British culinary identity to the Maldives.
Highlights include:
- A showcase tasting dinner
- An intimate cooking class
- A signature finale experience at The Whale Bar
Known for combining precision with personality, Purnell’s appearance marks a confident culinary crescendo for the season.
May 2026: Feliciano López Joins the Tastemaker Series
The series continues into May with Feliciano López, one of tennis’s most respected figures and a former World No. 12.
A Grand Slam doubles champion and Open Era record-holder for consecutive Grand Slam appearances, López offers curated guest sessions focusing on:
- Advanced technique and movement
- Match awareness and strategy
- The nuances of elite-level tennis
All delivered within a relaxed island environment that encourages learning and connection.
Why It Matters
The Tastemaker Series has evolved into a defining signature of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, reflecting a broader shift in luxury travel toward immersive, knowledge-driven experiences.
For guests, it means:
- Deeper engagement with globally influential figures
- Experiences that go beyond observation to participation
- A rare blend of luxury, learning and personal enrichment
As travellers increasingly seek meaning alongside indulgence, the 2026 Tastemaker Series positions the resort at the forefront of experiential luxury in the Maldives.
A Defining Hallmark of the St. Regis Maldives Experience
Reflecting on the programme’s return, General Manager Vincent Pauchon notes:
“The Tastemaker Series is more than a program; it is a celebration of passion, artistry, and human connection. Each year, we strive to curate experiences that feel personal and enriching, giving our guests the opportunity to engage not only with exceptional talent but with new perspectives, ideas, and inspirations.”
With its 2026 edition, the Tastemaker Series continues to reinforce The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort as a destination where excellence is shared, creativity is celebrated, and every encounter is designed to resonate long after departure.
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At a Glance
- Event: Tastemaker Series 2026
- Location: The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort
- Highlights: Culinary arts, wellness, mixology and elite tennis
- Key Names: Gianluca Renzi, Akiko Igarashi, Felice Capasso, Angelique Kerber, Glynn Purnell, Feliciano López
- Positioning: Experiential luxury, cultural immersion, meaningful guest engagement
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