The Insider
Welcome
Welcome to The Insider Guide to the Indian Ocean, which returns for a second year following its debut in 2024. Aspire launched
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its Insider UWRRNGOGPV UGTKGU VQ QHHGT FGGR KPUKIJV KPVQ C URGEKƂE destination – and with a region as vast and evolving as the Indian Ocean, it’s no surprise appetite remains for a second instalment. In the past 12 months, the region has seen a raft of developments (page 20), with hotels opening, new properties breaking ground and luxury product being enhanced across each country. Sales to the most popular destinations – the Maldives, Mauritius and the Seychelles – remain strong, with many operators, including supplement sponsor Pure Luxury, reporting year-on-year growth in trading. But booking habits continue to evolve. In the Maldives, an increasingly varied family offering (page 35) has seen this honeymoon favourite diversify its client base. Sri Lanka is enjoying an uptick in demand (page 16), while more clients are pairing
the Indian Ocean with the Middle East for a twin-centre holiday (page 15). The Indian Ocean is also an increasingly appealing choice for clients seeking off-the-beaten-path or transformational experiences. Aspire features writer Charlotte Brook journeys to Zanzibar to sample its growing luxury offering (page 51), while I head to Mauritius to road-test Beachcomber’s wellness
programme (page 26). Both trips are proof the Indian Ocean can be more than just sun, sea and sand (should clients wish) – indeed, immersive experiences can be found across the region (page 44). We hope this guide helps to spark inspiration, boost knowledge and ultimately drive bookings to this beloved corner of the world.
Erica ERICA RICH acting editor, Aspire +44 (0)7799 629655 @aspireluxurytravelclub
linkedin.com/company/aspiretravelclub
ASPIRETRAVELCLUB.CO.UK THE INSIDER SEPTEMBER 2025
CREDITS: Tide + Tide Tsara Komba; Eric Martin/Voaara Madagascar; Barbara Kraft/One&Only Reethi Rah; Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas; The Residence Zanzibar; Sarah Lucy Brown
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