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Learning to swim the Maldivian way

Maldives.net.mv – Seven Grade 3 children join hands in a circle in the shallow turquoise water of Soneva Fushi, Maldives. On the count of three they duck, submerging their faces into the warm water. Seconds later they jump up, squealing with contagious delight. With their instructors, they float on their backs and kick in the shallows, their giggles drowning out the sound of the waves.
So far, not so unusual. But for many of these island nation children, this is their first ever swimming lesson. Despite living on Eydhafushi, an island less than 1km long by half a kilometre wide and just one metre above sea level, most of these children are unable to swim. Unusually dark skies, intermittent rain and choppy water cannot dampen the excitement of the children as they receive their first proper instruction in the water.
Federica Siena, marine biologist at Soneva Fushi, is the lead of the two week learn-to-swim programme Her small stature belies a strength of focus, both in and out of the water. In a lilting Italian accent, she explains the motivation behind the programme:
“The idea came from the 2013 SLOW LIFE Symposium which is an annual environmental event hosted by Soneva. We had lots of conversations with marine experts and we thought that teaching kids seemed the most important way to inform the people around Soneva Fushi about protecting the ocean. It’s the first step in a bigger goal of environmental protection. Giving lectures and presentations wouldn’t work – the kids need to have a passion and start loving the sea.”
Filmmaker and six-time grantee of the National Geographic Expeditions Council Jon Bowermaster, is making a documentary film of the swim programme, with the aim of promoting swimming worldwide. He asks the children where they go to swim. We don’t, they respond. Why not? It is dangerous. There are dangerous fish and it is dirty.
The dangerous fish is questionable. But without doubt the shoreline at Eydhafushi is dirty. The parents refuse to let their children take their swimming lessons there and with good reason. The contrast between the litter-strewn beaches of local islands and the clean white sand of resort islands like Soneva Fushi is impossible to ignore. In a nation with few municipal waste facilities and huge stress on the limited available land, the sea has traditionally been a useful dumping ground. But just one or two generations ago that waste would have been food waste and biodegradable matter. Today it is plastic bottles, plastic packaging and aluminium cans.
“I have travelled around the world studying the way people who live on the edge of the ocean react to it, treat it. Sadly there are many places where the ocean has been abused by people mistreating it for decades,” says Jon.
“The goal with our learn-to-swim programme is to teach kids, and parents, to swim, to gain a confidence that will keep them safe in the ocean, but also encourage them to be better protectors of the ocean. Once they’ve swum here, seen the sandy bottom and the fish, they’ll become stewards of taking care of it.”
Earlier in the day, 17 mothers of the same group of children join for their first lesson. The lesson begins with simple steps. They start with feeling comfortable with their faces in the water. They learn to exhale through the nose and inhale through the mouth, and progress to floating on their backs. The sound of their laughter competes with that of the children.
Lead instructor for the swim programme is Nathan Tschohl from Diversity in Aquatics, a non-profit committed to reducing annual drowning statistics and to increasing diversity in the profile of swimmers worldwide. A staggering 1.2m people drown worldwide each year, a figure Nathan is determined to see fall. He looks satisfied as he waves the mothers off at the end of class. “This was 100 times more than I was hoping for. There was no fear among these women. They will go home and tell their friends and family. This could be a really important stepping stone.”
Meanwhile, it is the turn of the children. Nine year old Iraahath is not so sure as the mothers. She arrives in tears, probably afraid of the water, possibly feeling shy, yet within minutes she has her face in the water and excitement conquers fear. “Vaagi dhookollaa!”, her instructor tells her – relax!
Drying off over sweet pastries, the exhilarated children share stories of their first swimming lesson. Nine year old Ida has a huge smile. The slogan on her bright green t-shirt screams Don’t Look At Me but it is hard not too. She confidently tells me that today she was very scared when she put her face in the water for the first time but that at the end of two weeks she will be snorkelling on the reef. “I will go into the deep. Because I will learn!”
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New era of luxury Wellness: Pilates Reformer arrives at St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

Setting a new standard in luxury wellness, the iconic St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is expanding its holistic offerings with the introduction of Pilates Reformer—a dynamic full-body workout renowned for its ability to lengthen, strengthen, and restore. Against the backdrop of turquoise waters and lush island serenity, guests will soon be invited to experience this transformative practice as part of a thoughtfully curated wellness journey.
With a growing global demand for integrative fitness experiences, Pilates Reformer has become a favourite for those seeking mindful movement and functional strength. Utilising a specially designed apparatus, the method elevates traditional Pilates through resistance-based training that enhances flexibility, balance, and core stability, while remaining gentle on the joints. At St. Regis Maldives, certified instructors will guide guests through personalised sessions tailored to a variety of goals, from rehabilitation and toning to posture improvement and stress relief.
The addition of Pilates Reformer complements the resort’s deep-rooted commitment to wellness, extending far beyond conventional spa treatments. Central to this philosophy is the overwater Iridium Spa—a serene sanctuary that offers more than indulgence. Guests can engage in Ayurvedic consultations, guided meditation, and holistic health screenings conducted by in-house wellness doctors. These screenings integrate Heart Rate Variability (HRV) technology with the ancient Ayurvedic technique of Nadi Pareeksha, a traditional pulse diagnosis, to identify imbalances and customise each guest’s path to optimal well-being.
Whether seeking deep relaxation, detoxification, or enhanced physical performance, the resort’s integrative approach ensures that every element of a guest’s stay contributes to overall wellness. Daily yoga, breathwork sessions, oceanfront meditation, and nutrition guidance are seamlessly woven into the island’s natural rhythm to create a truly transformative retreat.
Private Pilates Reformer classes will be offered to suit all experience levels, providing an inspiring way for guests to reconnect with both body and mind. With its iconic overwater villas, pristine beaches, and impeccable service, St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort continues to redefine luxury through the lens of well-being.
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Game on! Upcoming Meyyafushi unveils Maldives’ first overwater padel court

Get ready for a unique sporting experience in paradise! Meyyafushi Maldives, the highly anticipated new resort from the owners and operators of Fushifaru Maldives, has teased an extraordinary amenity on its social media channels: an overwater padel tennis court. Set to open in October 2025, Meyyafushi Maldives is already generating buzz, and this innovative addition is sure to elevate its appeal.
Building on the established success of Fushifaru Maldives, known for its intimate atmosphere and stunning natural beauty in Lhaviyani Atoll, Meyyafushi Maldives promises a similar commitment to exceptional hospitality and unforgettable experiences. While details about the new resort have been gradually unfolding, the recent reveal of the overwater padel tennis court marks a significant and exciting development.
Padel tennis, a popular racquet sport that combines elements of tennis, squash, and badminton, is gaining traction globally. However, Meyyafushi Maldives is taking the game to a whole new level – literally. Imagine the thrill of a friendly (or perhaps a fiercely competitive!) match with the breathtaking backdrop of the turquoise Maldivian waters stretching out beneath the court. The social media post showcasing the court hints at a truly exceptional spot to engage in some active fun with loved ones while soaking in the unparalleled scenery.

This pioneering amenity underscores Meyyafushi Maldives’ dedication to offering distinctive and memorable experiences for its guests. It signals a resort that is not only focused on relaxation and natural beauty but also on providing unique and engaging activities. The overwater padel tennis court is poised to become a signature feature, attracting sports enthusiasts and those seeking novel ways to enjoy their Maldivian getaway.
As Meyyafushi Maldives gears up for its October 2025 opening, the introduction of the first overwater padel tennis court in the Maldives adds another compelling reason to anticipate its arrival. This innovative amenity promises a memorable and picturesque sporting experience, further solidifying the resort’s position as a noteworthy addition to the Maldivian hospitality landscape.
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Ifuru Island Maldives takes part in Burunu Boma sport fishing tournament

Ifuru Island Maldives has announced its participation in the inaugural Burunu Boma Sport Fishing Tournament, taking place from 2 to 4 May 2025. Organized by the Visit Maldives Club (VMC), this premier event aims to position the Maldives as a leading destination for sustainable sport fishing.
As one of the select resorts competing in this prestigious tournament, Team Ifuru Maldives will showcase its commitment to marine conservation and responsible tourism. The competition emphasizes “catch and release” practices, aligning with global efforts to preserve marine biodiversity.
Participants will target species such as marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, swordfish, and bigeye tuna, with a grand prize of USD 25,000 awarded to the top-performing team. The event also features live entertainment and a festive atmosphere, celebrating the Maldives’ rich fishing heritage.
“We are thrilled to be part of Burunu Boma and to represent Ifuru Island Maldives in this landmark event,” said Marcel Sawyer, General Manager at Ifuru Island Maldives. “Our participation underscores our dedication to sustainable practices and our passion for the ocean that surrounds us.”
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