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Soneva reveals details of its newest resort, Soneva Jani

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Soneva Jani

24 water villas and 1 island villa to open in October 2016 in the Maldives

All villas feature a retractable roof for stargazing

The resort is set in a 5.6km private lagoon

Maldives.net.mv – Soneva, the world-leading luxury resort operator, has revealed details of its newest resort, Soneva Jani, opening in October 2016 in the Maldives. The brand’s newest luxury resort offering will comprise 24 water villas and one island villa, with additional island villas planned at a later stage.

Inspired by a word that means wisdom in Sanskrit, Soneva Jani is located on the island of Medhufaru, which is part of an uninhabited five-island cluster in the Noonu Atoll. The highlight of the resort is its location within a 5.6 kilometer lagoon of crystal clear waters with uninterrupted 360° views of the Indian Ocean. The main island is fringed by pristine beaches and blanketed with lush tropical greenery.

Soneva Jani

Every water villa has a private pool and opens to its own stretch of lagoon, with some villas featuring slides going directly from the top deck into the lagoon below. The highlight of the villas is the retractable roof in the master bedroom, which slides back at the touch of a button so that guests can lie in bed and stargaze. Like all other Soneva properties, the spacious villas feature beautifully designed interiors by Eva Shivdasani, one of Soneva’s co-founders, and are made from the highest quality sustainable materials.

“When we opened Soneva Gili more than 15 years ago, it stood out as a unique and new concept in luxury travel. It is my belief that Soneva Jani is even more revolutionary. There are many small details and improvements, for example at Soneva Gili, guests would often sleep on the top deck so that they could sleep under the stars. In each Soneva Jani Water Retreat or Reserve the master bedroom roof slides back at the press of a button. It closes automatically if it rains,” said Sonu Shivdasani, founder and CEO of Soneva.

“We live in an ever more crowded and developed world. Soneva Jani is one of the lowest density resorts in the world. Just 25 Villas are built in an area that stretches nearly five kilometers. It is not an island resort. It is a lagoon with five private islands where only one of these will have development. When designing and building Soneva Jani, I was very mindful that when we open, the area should seem as natural and beautiful as the first day I laid eyes on it,” he added. “Soneva Jani is one of the most anticipated hotel openings in the Indian Ocean this year. We have already witnessed a huge amount of interest, with the first few weeks fully booked within a few days of opening the booking system to the global travel trade.”

Soneva Jani

Soneva Jani will include all of Soneva’s popular features including a Spa, a dive centre, an observatory, a children’s den, an Eco Centro, organic gardens and an outdoor Cinema Paradiso. The cinema will be the first ‘silent cinema’ in the Maldives, as guests will be given Bluetooth earphones to watch movies so as not to disturb the nesting wildlife in the area.

The resort will serve global cuisine at five dining outlets, and will feature Soneva’s ubiquitous cheese, chocolate, ice-cream and charcuterie rooms that are complimentary for all guests. Various destination and specialty dining experiences will also be available.

“Soneva Jani is a place of incredible natural beauty. The waters in the lagoon have the most vibrant shades of blue that I have not seen anywhere else in the Maldives. We have an extensive array of marine life, including turtles, rays and occasionally dolphins, and the lagoon is an excellent place for kayaking, sailing and swimming as it is calm, shallow and extends for miles and miles. The villas are stunning and include all the attention to detail that Soneva is renowned for. Construction is progressing quickly and we are on track for an opening in October 2016,” said Olivia Richli, the Pre-Opening and General Manager of Soneva Jani.

Soneva Jani includes 18 units of one-bedroom Water Retreats, four units of two-bedroom Water Retreats, one three-bedroom Water Retreat, 1 three-bedroom Water Reserve, and one four-bedroom Island Reserve.

Soneva Jani

In constructing the resort, Soneva kept its environmental impact as low as possible. The pools use seawater with UV filtration and the villas have been built over the sandy floors of the lagoon, with no damage to any part of the reef. Furthermore, solar PV will be a significant source of power generation at the resort, all waste-water will be collected and treated on-site, and water will also be produced on-site, including drinking water. Soneva’s Eco Centro Waste-to-Wealth centre will ensure that waste is recycled, while the extensive vegetable garden will give local produce for the restaurants based on organic principles.

The resort’s soft opening is planned for October 01, 2016, while the official opening date is fixed at November 05, 2016. Bookings are now available from October 01, 2016 onwards.

In addition to Soneva Jani, Soneva owns and operates Soneva Fushi in the Maldives and Soneva Kiri in Thailand. Soneva in Aqua, an ultra luxurious yacht offering an experiential travel experience, was launched in the Maldives in 2015 and sails out of Soneva Fushi. For more information about Soneva visit www.soneva.com

Pictures by Richard Waite for Soneva Jani

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Three Marriott Bonvoy resorts in Maldives launch festive early bird offers

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This festive season, trade crowded city streets and familiar celebrations for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday in the Maldives. Surrounded by turquoise lagoons, powder-soft beaches and endless Indian Ocean horizons, travellers can reconnect with family, friends and loved ones through meaningful experiences in one of the world’s most coveted island destinations. From December 20, 2026 to January 10, 2027, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort and Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa invite guests to celebrate the holidays with exclusive Festive Early Bird offers available to book from now until November 15, 2026.

Across the three resorts, guests can enjoy a variety of festive season benefits, from resort credits and wellness experiences to water adventures, family-friendly activities, live entertainment and cultural experiences, with exclusive inclusions tailored to each destination. Families can enjoy added value with complimentary stay and dining for children under 12, while couples and groups of friends can create unforgettable memories through curated island experiences, exceptional dining and spectacular year-end celebrations set against the natural beauty of the Maldives.

A Festive Island Escape Just Moments from Malé

Just 10 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa offers one of the most convenient festive escapes in the Maldives. Set on the lush private island of Furanafushi in North Malé Atoll, the resort combines contemporary comforts with the relaxed charm that has made it a favourite for generations of travellers. Spacious accommodations range from interconnecting guest rooms for families to beachfront and overwater villas suited to couples and friends traveling together.

This festive season, the resort unveils Island Lumière, a celebration inspired by light, warmth and togetherness. From December 1, 2026 through January 7, 2027, guests can experience the elegance of White & Gold Christmas before welcoming the New Year with the radiant glow of Peach Lumière. Days unfold with coral restoration experiences alongside marine biologists, sunrise yoga sessions, sound healing rituals, snorkelling adventures and a festive Christmas Day Beach BBQ by the shore. As the sun sets, the island comes alive with the Full Moon Beach Party, the White & Gold Christmas Gala and the New Year’s Eve Peach Lumière Gala beneath the stars. Younger guests can immerse themselves in Santa’s Workshop, festive scavenger hunts, creative art activities and interactive island adventures that spark imagination and connection.

The package includes complimentary shared speedboat transfers, daily breakfast, lunch and dinner at selected restaurants, USD 45 dining credit per adult per night at specialty restaurants, and access to festive activities, making it an ideal choice for families seeking effortless island celebrations close to Malé.

The White Isle: A Celebration of Sunshine, Discovery and Joie de Vivre

Surrounded by a spectacular 360-degree lagoon in Lhaviyani Atoll, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa brings together the glamour of the French Riviera and the natural beauty of the Maldives in a distinctive festive escape. Arriving via a scenic 35-minute seaplane flight from Malé, guests are welcomed by powder-soft beaches, a thriving house reef and a vibrant island atmosphere that encourages exploration, creativity and connection.

Ideal for couples, families and groups of friends, the resort features spacious beach and overwater villas, including the Three-Bedroom Thilamaafushi Villa, perfectly suited for multi-generational gatherings and celebratory getaways. Guests can spend their days exploring one of the Maldives’ premier destinations for year-round turtle encounters, visiting the Marine Conservation Hub, foraging fresh ingredients at The Greenhouse, enjoying a friendly game of padel or discovering the wonders of the night sky through guided stargazing sessions with the resort’s resident astronomer.

Throughout the festive season, La Fête by Le Méridien transforms Thilamaafushi Island into The White Isle, a celebration of luminous whites, joyful gatherings and European-inspired holiday traditions. From festive feasts and family moments to music-filled evenings and celebrations beneath the stars, timeless traditions are reimagined through the lens of island life. Guests are invited to embrace the simple pleasures of the season through culture, cuisine and discovery, while younger travellers can immerse themselves in Gingerbread Wonderland masterclasses and a vibrant calendar of festive activities at The Family Kids Hub.

The package includes a USD 100 daily resort credit, daily breakfast, lunch and dinner across selected restaurants, a curated festive program and more. The result is a vibrant island holiday where every moment is an invitation to celebrate the season with family and friends.

A Restorative Festive Escape in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll

Nestled within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort provides the perfect setting for restorative wellness, natural beauty and quality time with loved ones. Reached via a scenic 35-minute seaplane journey from Malé, the resort is surrounded by crystal-clear waters renowned for vibrant coral reefs, rich marine biodiversity and unforgettable encounters with manta rays and whale sharks.

Designed for travellers seeking both privacy and togetherness, the resort’s spacious beach and overwater pool villas provide a serene sanctuary for couples and families alike. Larger groups and multi-generational travellers can retreat to the expansive Two-Bedroom Heavenly Beach Residence, complete with generous living spaces and a private pool.

From December 22, 2026 to January 6, 2027, a thoughtfully curated festive program brings holiday traditions to life through tropical island experiences. Guests can gather for the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, indulge in festive dining experiences and ring in the New Year with an elegant celebration culminating in a spectacular fireworks display over the Indian Ocean. Beyond the festivities, visitors can reconnect through wellness experiences at Heavenly Spa by Westin, marine adventures and moments of relaxation in one of the Maldives’ most pristine settings.

The package highlights include daily breakfast and dinner, a USD 100 dining credit per stay, a dolphin cruise for two adults and two children, one-hour ocean kayaking and a complimentary floating breakfast when booking selected villa categories.

To discover more about Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of resorts in the Maldives, visit marriott.com/maldives or click here to start planning your festive escape now.

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THE OZEN COLLECTION to host sixth Bodegas Viñátigo wine master class

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For wine lovers and curious travellers alike, there are few experiences as captivating as discovering a wine with a story. And few stories are as compelling as that of Bodegas Viñátigo a winery born from the volcanic soils of Tenerife, where winemakers have spent over thirty years bringing nearly forgotten grape varieties back to life.

This November, that story arrives once again in the Maldives, as THE OZEN COLLECTION hosts the sixth annual Bodegas Viñátigo Wine Master Class, a rare and immersive journey through the flavours, traditions, and artistry of the Canary Islands.

The journey begins at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO from 23rd to 25th November with The Submerged Cellar Soirée at M6m, the iconic underwater restaurant six metres beneath the lagoon, with the experimental underwater aged wines as welcome drink and a curated menu celebrating land and sea is thoughtfully paired with the expressive wines of Tenerife. The exploration continues across the resort’s signature dining venues, each offering a distinct perspective on the Bodegas Viñátigo collection. At Sea, Salt & Soy, the bold flavours of Pan-Asian cuisine meet the nuanced elegance of Canarian wines at TRADITION PEKING, creating a symphony of taste and texture. The experience culminates with Brunch with Shakespeare, a refined and poetic conclusion to the Maadhoo chapter, where wine, food, and storytelling converge beneath the Maldivian sun.

“Our wines from Tenerife’s volcanic soil to the pristine shores of the Maldives has been an extraordinary experience,” shares Juan Jesús Méndez. “Our collaboration with THE OZEN COLLECTION has allowed us to share these remarkable wines with a global audience. The continued enthusiasm from our guests encourages us to create even more expressions of our wines.”

The vinous voyage continues at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI from 27th to 29th November, where curated dinners and tastings explore the artistry of the wines through innovative culinary collaborations. The journey begins with The Sand Cellar Soirée at ORIGINꓱ, a contemporary dining experience that pairs the depth of volcanic wines with modern gastronomic artistry. A Pan-Asian dinner at Sand, Smoke & Soy brings together two distinctive culinary traditions in a creative dialogue, exploring the harmony between bold island flavours and the heritage of the Canary Islands. The experience culminates with Sunset with Shakespeare, an intimate beachside wine pairing offering guests the rare opportunity to engage directly with the Bodegas Viñátigo wine makers, connect with the passion and heritage behind each vintage, and toast to an unforgettable journey.

“Canary wine is a story of land, tradition, and connection. My journey with Bodegas Viñátigo has taken me to the annual harvest in Tenerife recently, where I witnessed the care and precision that shape every vintage. That experience brought a new level of detail and understanding to our collaboration, reinforcing our commitment to bringing guests not just a wine, but a sense of place. This partnership has enriched our offering and deepened our dedication to authentic, terroir-driven experiences,” said Rohit Salunke, Assistant Director of Wines at Atmosphere Core, said about his experience with the wine makers.

Since 2021, THE OZEN COLLECTION and Bodegas Viñátigo have shared a commitment to authenticity, craftsmanship, and the art of winemaking. Each year, this exclusive collaboration brings the rare volcanic wines of Tenerife to the shores of the Maldives, offering guests an intimate glimpse into the heritage and passion behind every vintage. Over the years, the programme has evolved into a signature event on the Maldivian luxury calendar, a celebration of terroir, tradition, and the enduring bond between two island cultures.

As part of the resort’s all-encompassing RESERVE™ Plan and INDULGENCE™ Plan, this once-a-year experience invites guests to indulge in an extraordinary celebration of wine, cuisine, and island beauty. With limited spaces and a programme designed to enchant both connoisseurs and newcomers alike, we encourage you to reserve your place and raise a glass to the artistry of land, sea, and timeless craft.

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The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort to mark World Wellness Weekend with three-day celebration

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The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort will commemorate World Wellness Weekend 2026 with an immersive three-day celebration inspired by the restorative power of nature. Taking place from September 18 to 20, 2026, the thoughtfully curated program invites guests to embrace mindful living, holistic wellbeing, and meaningful connection through experiences designed to foster balance, vitality, and renewal in an extraordinary island setting.

Rooted in the St. Regis tradition of crafting exceptional experiences, the weekend brings together movement, mindfulness, self-care, and wellness education against the breathtaking backdrop of the Maldives. The three-day program includes yoga and meditation, Pilates, strength and fitness training, Anti-Gravity Yoga, aquatic fitness experiences, skincare workshops, and guided self-care sessions. These experiences encourage guests to reconnect with themselves, cultivate inner balance, and embrace a more mindful way of living.

Nestled between lush tropical rainforest and pristine white-sand beaches on a private island in Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort offers a serene sanctuary where luxury and wellbeing exist in harmony. From sunrise rituals overlooking the Indian Ocean to transformative experiences at the award-winning Iridium Spa, every element of the weekend is thoughtfully designed to inspire presence, deepen one’s connection with nature, and nurture a lasting sense of wellbeing.

Day One | Friday, September 18, 2026

The weekend begins with Morning Yoga at the Yoga Sala, where guests are invited to greet the day with sun salutations that energise the body and calm the mind. A dynamic blend of aerobics and boxing follows, designed to strengthen, challenge, and invigorate.

Later, guests can explore the principles of holistic wellbeing during Balancing Your Doshas, an interactive Ayurvedic workshop focused on achieving greater harmony between mind, body, and environment. The afternoon continues with an energising Beach Boot Camp, before transitioning into a restorative Chakra Yoga session, encouraging self-expression, authenticity, and personal growth.

Day Two | Saturday, September 19, 2026

The second day begins with Sunrise Yoga and Meditation, followed by Mat Pilates, session designed to enhance core strength, balance, and flexibility.

A highlight of the day, Anti-Gravity Yoga combines traditional yoga principles with suspended movement, creating a unique experience that is both engaging and restorative. At Iridium Spa, guests may participate in a Skin Analysis Workshop, featuring personalised consultations and expert recommendations tailored to individual skincare and wellness goals.

The afternoon features Strength Training, before concluding with a guided Chakra Meditation centred on Ajna, the third-eye chakra, encouraging clarity, intuition, and reflection.

Day Three | Sunday, September 20, 2026

The final day starts with a tranquil Morning Yoga session, followed by an invigorating HIIT Workout, challenging participants with high-intensity movement designed to elevate fitness, endurance, and vitality.

Guests are then welcomed to the iconic overwater Iridium Spa for an interactive BR Skin Instant® Workshop, where tailored insights and expert advice highlight the relationship between wellbeing and radiant, healthy skin.

The wellness journey continues with Pool Bike Fitness, a low-impact aquatic workout that combines resistance and cardiovascular training, followed by The Art of Massage Workshop, where guests can learn simple therapeutic techniques to support relaxation and recovery.

The weekend concludes with a Modified HYROX Workout on the beach, a dynamic functional fitness challenge that blends strength, stamina, and cardio. A final Chakra Yoga session dedicated to Sahasrara, the crown chakra, brings the celebration to a meaningful close.

A Journey to Renewal

Nestled between lush tropical rainforest and pristine white-sand beaches on a private island in Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort provides an extraordinary setting for renewal and discovery. From sunrise rituals overlooking the Indian Ocean to transformative experiences at the award-winning Iridium Spa, every element of the World Wellness Weekend is thoughtfully designed to inspire presence, deepen one’s connection with nature, and nurture a lasting sense of wellbeing.

For more information on World Wellness Weekend 2026 and the resort’s wellness offerings, visit stregismaldives.com.

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