Avas online in collaboration with media giants the New York Times on Sunday launched the first Maldives based international magazine titled 'ISLES'.
The monthly publication was officially launched by president of the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) Abdulla Giyas Riyaz during a colorful event at the Champa Central Hotel in the capital Male.
Speaking during the event, Chief Editor of the ISLES, Mohamed Visham noted the significance of the venture to provide an unprecedented insight into the business, travel, tourism and culture of the Maldives.
"Maldives has so many untold stories. ISLES would provide a unique international platform for the archipelago with an extensive international distribution channels," Visham explained.
Through the link up with a renowned media firm based in the UK, ISLES is placed in over 150 venues including prominent hotels, airline lounges and private clubs across UK, Germany, Hong Kong and Singapore.
The local distribution channels would cover the airport, several domestic airport lounges, resorts, major guesthouses and liveaboards in addition to the corporate offices across the country.
General Manager of the New York Times' News Services and Print Innovation, Michael Greenspon via a video message hailed the new syndicate's first venture in the Maldives.
Greenspon added that The New York Times international report would enhance the value of the ISLES brand and provide a platform especially for the tourism and hospitality industry of the Maldives.
CEO of Avas, Ahmed Nazmee highlighted the launch as a major achievement for one the youngest news outlets in Maldives - which has been in operation for a little over two years. He noted the challenging efforts by Avas and everyone involved, in tying up with one of the world's oldest and renowned news corporations.
