Family
Soneva Fushi, Maldives introduces new ‘Den’ concept for children
Maldives.net.mv – The endless flights of fancy, driving ideas and activities at the Children’s Den at Soneva Kiri are to be recreated by popular demand at Soneva Fushi, with the building of a second Den by the end of 2013, devoted to fun and learning for young children and teenagers.
Taking their inspiration from the dramatic Manta Ray at Soneva Kiri, as well as many discussions with young Soneva Enthusiasts over the past two years; Sonu and Eva Shivdasani and their creative team have come up with another unique concept for Soneva Fushi. When completed, it will be the most creative and large-scale dedicated children’s Den in the Maldives.
So forget classrooms and think play time! The Den is like an amusement park, eco-pod and theatre of dreams all rolled into one.
Pride of place in The Den will be a spectacular 130 square metre swimming pool complete with slide, while smaller children will have their own toddlers pool, both pools bordered with decks designed for safe sun-kissed play. Other outdoor activities revolve around a pirate ship, a zip line that allows users to whizz through the jungle and of course the ever popular games area including a large ping pong table.
Designers have invested an enormous amount of time into their plans for The Tunnel, a 14 metre corridor linking the gardens with The Den, and a treasure trove of all the activities that children MUST have at the top of their daily hobby lists. It is clad in roots and branches hiding an ‘old’ map of the Den with hints as to where the ‘treasure’ is buried. Whatever our age, we all love trying to find buried treasure!
The tunnel is also educational with sections from old buildings showing how people used to build in the Maldives, and fun with a novelty door in door in a door, plus glass peep holes in the walls. Also in the walls is a clock from wonderland.
All these features have been carefully conceived to make the Tunnel a big hit with the children, encouraging them to explore the organic garden which has flowers and Asian trees with swings and nests hanging from the branches.
Venturing inside offers no relief from the excitement. A dancing area, DJ corner, dressing up room, library and cinema provide space for music, books, films and fantasies. A music room with a small stage will house a range of musical instruments for some proper Maldivian noise-making.
Tables shaped like tropical leaves create a learning area that few children will ever have experienced, while a ‘mocktail’ bar and kitchen provide space for children to learn about food and drink. Locally crafted woodcarving countertops give these areas a distinctly Asian feel, educating young visitors about natural materials locally sourced.
For our younger guests, the Den also features a Lego room and display area where children can build on walls and show off their creations. Teenagers can enjoy their own relaxation area which provides a bit of peace and quiet for those tired from the exciting activities. There is also a peaceful sleeping area for toddlers.
Many of the ideas for the Children’s Den in Soneva Fushi have stemmed from input by children who have played in the Den at Soneva Kiri. The structure itself was the stuff of dreams after groups of younger guests were asked to imagine their fantasy play area, leaving a creative team of international architects and builders with the task of rolling out this real life manifestation of their imaginations.
It has been a stunning success. Built to appear like a gigantic manta ray hovering above the forest, it offers healthy natural light and magnificent views, appreciated as much by parents who are captivated by both concept and delivery and by the children engaged in all the activities.
Over the years, Soneva’s teams of professional child minders, who are constantly on duty at The Den, have come up with a range of clever ideas for integrated learning and play so children might learn about protecting Thai elephants while also painting them on paper or even creating their very own print in batik art. They find out about making traditional puppets and costumes inspired by cultures throughout Southeast Asia or learn more about the environment by crafting mobiles and bracelets from recycled paper or taking nature walks in the surrounding rain forest.
Diversity is key to keeping children occupied and entertained and parents relaxed and happy. The Den at Soneva Fushi is guaranteed to deliver!
Summer is calling, and with it, the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories. Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa invites families to embrace the ultimate tropical escape with its exclusive Family Fun Summer package. Set amidst the pristine beauty of Lhaviyani Atoll, the resort offers a unique blend of contemporary eco-conscious design and the stunning natural wonders of the Maldives, making it the ideal destination for families seeking a harmonious balance of adventure and relaxation.
The Family Fun Summer package has been thoughtfully crafted to provide families with an enriching and unforgettable experience, with inclusions for two adults and two children aged 12 and under. Designed for those wishing to reconnect, unwind, and celebrate precious time together, this offer includes a rich array of activities and experiences that cater to all ages. Whether seeking relaxation on the beach or exciting adventures on the water, there is something for every member of the family.
The Family Fun Summer package includes:
- Complimentary upgrade to Full Board: savour daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner at selected dining venues for the whole family to indulge in a variety of exquisite culinary offerings throughout the stay.
- Sunset dolphin cruise: witness the Maldives at its most magical and embark on a sunset cruise for the chance to spot playful dolphins as the sky transitions into vibrant hues.
- Daily complimentary watersports: discover the Maldives’ crystal-clear waters with activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkelling, providing fun and exploration for all ages.
- Daily activities: from Zumba and yoga to salsa, beach volleyball, and cinema under the stars, the resort offers exciting activities to keep families entertained throughout the day and night.
- Live entertainment: nightly events such as karaoke, bingo, and trivia create a vibrant, social atmosphere.
- Access to Waves Fitness Centre: guests can maintain their fitness routine with group classes such as Pilates and dance workouts.
- Le Méridien Family Kids Hub: a haven for young explorers offering hands-on workshops, marine conservation activities, and much more, sparking creativity and curiosity.
- Marine Conservation Hub: learn about the rich marine life as the resort’s resident marine biologist takes guests on a guided tour, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the ecosystem.
- The Greenhouse Tour: explore one of Maldives’ largest hydroponic gardens and learn about sustainable farming practices.
- Daily minibar replenishment: enjoy the convenience of daily replenishment of non-alcoholic beverages and snacks.
- Marriott Bonvoy members bonus: Marriott Bonvoy members can earn 25,000 bonus points when booking a multi-bedroom villa.
The magic of summer comes to life at the resort’s weekly Au Soleil pool parties. Guests can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere, with vibrant beats, refreshing Whispering Angel rosé, and tantalising barbecue aromas. Children are treated to homemade Le Scoop sorbet, making this a true celebration of family, fun, and the joys of summer.
Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa is the ultimate destination for families who wish to make the most of their time together. With 134 stylish villas, including spacious two-bedroom pool and beach villas, the resort offers ample space for families to gather and enjoy each other’s company. From beachside cinema nights and farm-to-table dining to friendly padel matches and explorations of the vibrant house reefs, every moment is an opportunity for adventure and togetherness. Dedicated family programmes invite both parents and children to immerse themselves in marine conservation, creative arts, and culture, all while enjoying the serenity of their private island retreat.
The Family Fun Summer package is available to book from now until 15th June 2025, for stays through to 20th December 2025.
For more information or to book your stay, please visit lemeridien-maldives.com or contact us at reservations.maldives@lemeridien.com.
Amilla Maldives has wrapped up its Easter celebrations, where ‘Wands, Wings and Easter Things’ set the tone for a fortnight of playful wonder woven into the island’s serene surroundings.
The journey began with inviting guests to ease into the season with an array of themed. The celebrations blossomed into 10 days of imagination and delight — a reflection of the resort’s warm and inviting spirit.
On Easter Sunday, one of the highlights of the day was surely the whimsical ‘Wings of Wonder’ Easter Egg hunt, led by the charming Mystique Dragon MC, who brought together families and friends for a dash of adventure and discovery. Next guests gathered for a traditional Easter Sunday Brunch filled with seasonal flavours accompanied by the soulful melodies from Naail Quartet on the pool deck, while the Mystique Beats Dragon DJ brought playful energy to the afternoon. Throughout the day, the Fiesta Fairies, Strolling Magic performers, Acrobatic Bunnies — and of course, a sprinkling of wands and wings — kept the island buzzing.
As the final Easter things are tucked away, Amilla Maldives extends its heartfelt thanks to all the guests who joined in the celebration, and to the islanders who brought the ‘Wands, Wings and Easter Things’ theme to life with creativity and warmth. The island now looks ahead to welcoming guests back for more memorable escapes, shaped by nature’s rhythms and the simple joys of island life.
Amilla’sEaster wrap-up videos are shared on its social channels for you to enjoy, offering a little glimpse into the magic of the season.
This Easter, RAAYA by Atmosphere transforms into a living storybook, inviting guests of all ages for a week of sun-drenched celebrations inspired by the fantastical adventures of Seb, the castaway artist who once made this Maldivian island his home. From 17 to 23 April, the celebratory spirit takes over the palm-fringed shores of RAAYA, blending the colour and creativity of island life with a dash of tropical flair and heartwarming tradition.
Expect more than just egg hunts and bonnets. At RAAYA, Easter is reimagined through the lens of sustainability, indulgence, and discovery. Set against the resort’s lush landscapes and turquoise lagoons, the festivities embrace Seb’s curious spirit with a fusion of handmade artistry, festive culinary spreads, and family connection. The resort has embraced handcrafted, upcycled decorations, thoughtfully designed by the team using natural and repurposed materials found around the island.
Each day at RAAYA promises a new chapter in Seb’s magical world. Little islanders can get crafty at the Discovery Den, the resort’s vibrant kids’ club, with Easter-themed workshops like bunny mask making, wooden bunny painting and eco-friendly Easter hat crafting. The island’s Easter Egg Tree will spring to life with colours of the season, adorned with hand-decorated eggs made by children during daily art sessions.
Highlights of the Easter celebrations include a lively coconut hunt, Easter egg painting, and mini mixology sessions where children can craft their own colourful mocktails. Families can also enjoy face painting, mini golf, and festive poolside fun at the RAAYA Luau. As night falls, the magic continues with an open-air cinema under the stars, while Seb’s Treasure Hunt invites young adventurers on an island-wide quest to discover clues from the legendary artist’s life.
Celebrate a one-of-a-kind Easter at RAAYA by Atmosphere with a special limited time ‘Easter Adventures in Seb’s Island Paradise’ offer of 20% savings on a four night or longer stay. Guests booking a stay during the Easter week can enjoy exclusive benefits including discounted rates, special family experiences and more, all part of the generous fully inclusive RAAYA Plan.
Find out more and book your Easter escape here.
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