News
PER AQUUM restyles Subsix as a subaquatic playground
Maldives.net.mv – Following the rave reviews of its world-first underwater nightclub, Subsix, PER AQUUM has evolved the pioneering venue into an underwater playground, a creative space which can be transformed into whatever guests imagine it to be – from private Champagne breakfasts to lunchtime celebrations to midnight proposals. Located at PER AQUUM Niyama in the Maldives, Subsix first opened in 2012. The recent redesign by Poole Associates draws inspiration from the aquatic surroundings and sets a very surreal stage for guests to dive beneath the surface and explore their desires.
Guests reach Subsix via speedboat, skipping over the reef to its 500-metre offshore location. Upon arrival, the underwater revellers descend a dramatic three-tier staircase. Overhead, Italian-designed abstract chandeliers illuminate the descent like shining coral or white stars sparkling through the sea’s surface. Brancusi cabinetry and mirrors line the path.
In the depths of Subsix, the soft anemone fingers of bespoke chairs invite with their deliciously bizarre textured design. Above, thousands of strands of capiz shells drape from the entire expanse of the ceiling in a luxe ode to an undersea kelp forest. Piercing the shells’ undulating waves, a garden of coral-like chandeliers spike their gleaming branches over wedding brunches and late-night celebrations. Silver-panelled columns throughout the venue draw their inspiration from the ribbed gills of manta rays.
In the centre of the room, a huge clam-inspired bar strikes an imposing form, its fibreglass shell glowing with Subsix’s mood lighting that shifts throughout the day from pure white mornings to a lavender dinner setting to late-night blues.
In addition to the seating in the clam’s swooping curves, tables and chairs dot the space, with the most coveted seats by the floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Over 90 coral reef species ply the waters, the dense marine life being attracted by the specially designed reef structures that integrate into the natural reef and enrich the habitat with surfaces for coral and hiding spots for the more reclusive denizens.
Parrotfish swim past shoals of Moorish Idols. Moray eels slide through the lagoon. Groupers make goliath appearances amidst the rainbow of butterflyfish and damselfish, while the resident Hawksbill turtle makes occasional visits at the cleaning station for a nibbled spa treatment by the small cleaning fish.
Among the many activities hosted by Subsix, marine biologist-led immersions into aquatic life give guests an expert’s insight into the rich environment and its secrets. Other highlighted activities in the restyled venue include subaquatic lunches, gourmet dinners, weddings, hosted events, wine tastings, a weekly Glow Party and DJ nights carrying on the tradition of its birth as a pioneer-of-the-deep club.
In the words of PER AQUUM Niyama’s General Manager Dietmar Koegerl, “Subsix is the closest you can get to the reef without a mask or a wetsuit. Guests fell so in love with the setting from the start that we knew we had hit on something special and had to take it to the next level.”
The new avatar of Subsix is now open. The last finishing touches are being completed as of May 2015 with new activities to be innovated over time and in response to valued opinions of PER AQUUM’s jet set guests.
News
SO/ Maldives earns full Green Globe recertification, strengthening position in sustainable luxury
SO/ Maldives has announced a significant sustainability milestone with its perfect 100% Green Globe recertification score, reaffirming the resort’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and innovative green practices. This achievement continues a journey that began well before the resort welcomed its first guests. In November 2024, SO/ Maldives earned the prestigious Green Globe certification in its very first year of operation, demonstrating an exceptional dedication to integrating sustainable principles into the core of its fashion-forward and design-led identity. Guided by Ennismore’s ESG mission, the resort has consistently showcased how bold eco-conscious innovation can elevate the luxury hospitality experience.
From the outset, SO/ Maldives has implemented thoughtful and forward-thinking initiatives that minimise its carbon footprint, reduce waste, support the local ecosystem and empower both its team and surrounding communities. The flawless 2025 recertification score reflects excellence across all sustainability indicators, supported by impactful measures such as the installation of solar panels across villas, restaurants and operational areas, generating up to 45% of the resort’s total energy. Intelligent GRMS technology further optimizes energy consumption by regulating air-conditioning, lighting and occupancy-based usage.
As SO/ Maldives continues to redefine luxury through purpose and innovation, the resort is also proud to be recognised as part of the Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs) a global framework dedicated to safeguarding biodiversity beyond traditional protected areas. This milestone underscores the resort’s deep commitment to environmental stewardship, championing long-term sustainability practices that preserve both the island’s natural beauty and its ecological integrity.

Through ongoing marine protection initiatives, habitat monitoring, and low-impact operational strategies, SO/ Maldives is actively contributing to the protection of local wildlife while fostering the natural regeneration of coral ecosystems. These efforts support thriving marine life, encourage healthy reef development, and reinforce the resort’s mission to protect the environment for future generations.
By aligning luxury hospitality with meaningful conservation, SO/ Maldives continues to lead with purpose where indulgence, innovation, and environmental responsibility coexist in perfect island harmony.
Waste management has been another cornerstone of the resort’s success. SO/ Maldives enforces comprehensive waste segregation and has partnered with Parley to upcycle plastic waste into high-performance materials used by Adidas in footwear and apparel. Additionally, collaborations with Secure Maldives ensure responsible recycling of metal waste. The resort also champions eco-conscious product choices: CODAGE bathroom amenities feature vegan, sustainably sourced formulas packaged in recyclable materials, while Palatino supplies 100% compostable bamboo and FSC-certified wooden in-villa amenities, including slippers and personal care items.
Food sustainability is deeply embedded into the resort’s culinary philosophy. SO/ Maldives utilises advanced digesters to liquefy food waste for responsible disposal, implements dedicated composting systems, and leverages Orbisk technology to monitor consumption and reduce waste. By sourcing ingredients locally from seafood to fresh produce the resort supports Maldivian communities and reduces carbon emissions. Its buffet-free approach promotes curated à la carte experiences that minimise food waste while enhancing guest satisfaction.
In true SO/ fashion, the resort merges sustainability with style. Each villa features bespoke artworks by Thai artist Ploenchan Vinyaratn, crafted from surplus yarn and recycled materials, blending elevated design with eco-friendly practices. The resort has also fully eliminated single-use plastics, further solidifying its position as a leader in sustainable hospitality.
The perfect Green Globe recertification is a tribute to the passionate SO/ Maldives team whose creativity, commitment and innovation ensure that environmental responsibility and guest happiness go hand in hand. SO/ Maldives extends its gratitude to its partners and guests for choosing to support its sustainability journey. As the resort continues to push boundaries and redefine island luxury, it remains steadfast in harmonizing bold design, exceptional service and meaningful environmental impact, celebrating the artistry of hospitality through green living.
For more information or to book your perfect getaway, please visit SO-Maldives.com or contact SO.Maldives.Reservations@so-hotels.com.
News
Milaidhoo Maldives introduces tranquil 3-day detox experience for New Year
Milaidhoo Maldives invites guests to begin the year feeling grounded and attuned to what truly matters, blending barefoot informality with a mindful approach to living. As the festive season draws to a close, the island encourages visitors to slow down, reconnect with the essentials and embrace a sense of calm through its New Year Renewal – 3-Day Detox Journey.
Curated for those seeking balance and inner harmony after the holidays, the programme nurtures both body and mind through gentle, restorative treatments featuring the acclaimed Aromatherapy Associates range. At Milaidhoo, wellbeing unfolds with intention, inviting guests to adopt the island’s unhurried rhythm and rediscover serenity.
Day 1 – Grounding & Harmonising
The experience begins with a personalised 15-minute holistic wellbeing consultation, ensuring each ritual aligns with individual needs. This is followed by a welcome ritual combining aromatherapy inhalations and cocoon meditation to ease the body and mind into a peaceful state.
Day 2 – Detox & Revitalise
Guests continue their journey with a private eucalyptus-infused steam ritual designed to invigorate and support immunity. An Aromatherapy Associates Detox Body Mud Wrap follows, offering purification and toning benefits, while a Wellbeing Facial restores both skin and spirit, leaving guests refreshed.
Day 3 – Renewed Energy & Inner Calm
The final day includes a Detox & Drainage Massage to enhance circulation and lymphatic flow, releasing tension and heaviness. A 30-minute sound healing session further promotes deep relaxation and renewed lightness. Guests depart with personalised stretching and mindful breathing exercises to maintain balance long after their stay.
Priced at USD 550++ per guest (240 minutes), the New Year Renewal reflects Milaidhoo’s philosophy of slow, meaningful living—a tranquil pause from everyday life. Each experience is thoughtfully designed to reconnect guests with themselves, their surroundings and the natural rhythm of life in the Maldives.
Awards
Marriott Maldives resorts secure top rankings in Condé Nast Traveller Middle East 2025
Marriott International has announced that three Luxury Group resorts within the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio in the Maldives have been recognised in the inaugural Condé Nast Traveller Middle East Readers’ Choice Awards 2025. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, and W Maldives were honoured in key categories across this first regional edition.
Voted by discerning and adventure loving readers throughout the region, these accolades celebrate the commitment of hospitality professionals who deliver thoughtful service and memorable moments. In the Favourite Overseas Leisure Hotels category, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands secured the number two ranking, while JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa earned the number four ranking. Both resorts continue to welcome guests with refined design, private villa accommodations, inventive culinary journeys, and signature programming that reflects the rhythm and spirit of the Maldives. Designed by Kerry Hill Architects, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is shaped by the ocean forces, wind, and waves, with contemporary villas that blend intuitive luxury with the essence of island living. JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa is distinguished by its spacious overwater and beach pool villas, celebrated dining, and the warm, genuine service that defines the JW Marriott brand.
Ranked number five in the Favourite Destination Spas category, The Ritz-Carlton Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is recognized for its distinctive ring-shaped design set above a tranquil lagoon and for wellness experiences inspired by the elemental power of water and the natural harmony of its surroundings. AWAY Spa at W Maldives, ranked tenth in this category, is recognized for its vibrant approach to wellness, panoramic lagoon views, and personalised treatments that encourage guests to relax, recharge, and experience the playful spirit that defines the resort.
The awards also named the Maldives the number one Favourite Overseas Leisure Destination, reaffirming the islands as a preferred choice for travellers seeking natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and immersive experiences across the Indian Ocean.
Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of resorts in the Maldives comprises of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives Fari Islands, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, W Maldives, JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa and Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa. Each resort is located on its own private island and offering the ultimate dream getaway. For further information, visit the website here.
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