Featured
Soneva launches limited edition ice-cream flavours for World Ice-Cream Day

Soneva has added 10 limited edition flavours to its resort’s unusual and unique ice-cream flavours in honour of World Ice Cream Day.
Soneva was the first resort to have 24/7 complimentary ice-cream rooms at all of its resorts, where guests can give in to their sweet tooth cravings throughout the day or night.
This year, Soneva is developing 10 new and unique flavours at Soneva Fushi, Soneva Jani and Soneva Kiri, for a total of 30 flavours. These flavours are only available for the next 12 months, after which time they will change. This is in addition to the regular rotating roster of flavours at each resort.
Guests at Soneva Fushi’s So Cool will get to sample new flavours such as: Soneva Bread Fruit and Maldivian Pine Nuts, Strawberry, Aged Balsamic and Green Olives, and Curry Leaves and Sweet Mango. While at Soneva Jani’s So Cool, Yuka with Garden Basil, Seaweed, and Caramelised Young Coconut join the classic ice creams and sorbets.
Soneva will also be introducing one new flavour each month inspired by that month’s Festival of Colour theme. This initiative will run from now until February 2019.
The Festival of Colour is Soneva’s first ever year-long campaign celebrating the diverse array of guest activities and experiences on offer this year. Soneva has confirmed a huge line-up of visiting experts, including chefs, authors, wine producers, world champion free divers, astronomers, artists, wellness practitioners, tennis coaches and more at all of its resorts.
World Ice-Cream Day falls on the third Sunday in July, making this year’s celebrations of this cooling sweet treat July 15.
World Ice-Cream Day began on July 15, 1984 when President Ronald Reagan proclaimed it an official holiday in the United States. At the time it was only meant to be celebrated that year, but the ice cream industry decided to observe the date every year. Since then it has spread around the globe, with July becoming National Ice-Cream Month.
Soneva is known for its complimentary ice-cream parlours, both for how many flavours they have on offer and for the unusual flavour combinations.
Guests will find flavours such as Rocket Leaf Sorbet, Garlic and Honey, Pineapple and Chili Sorbet among Salty Caramel, Roast Banana, and Pistachio Milk in the ever changing ice-cream parlours of Soneva. Approximately 50 percent of ice-creams and sorbets are vegan friendly or are low in sugar.
Soneva, a world-leading luxury resort operator, runs two resorts in the Maldives, Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani.
Established in 1995, Soneva Fushi is the original Soneva. The No News, No Shoes blueprint for all desert island barefoot luxury hideaways is located within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives. Soneva Fushi inspires the imagination with 65 spacious beachfront villas, ranging in size from one to nine bedrooms, hidden amongst dense foliage.
The iconic resort has bagged several international awards for eco-friendly tourism and green initiatives, including the 2017 Green Hotelier Award for the Asia Pacific region and the Sustainable Hotel Award by the Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific (HICAP) as well as a spot in the Gold List compiled by Condé Nast Traveler China as the Best Hotel in the Maldives and amongst the best resorts in the world in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2017.
Opened in December 2016, Soneva Jani is Soneva’s newest property and its second resort in the Maldives.
Soneva Jani encompasses a collection of 24 overwater villas and one island villa set in a 5.6 kilometre private lagoon located in the northern Noonu atoll. The resort spans five islands surrounded by pure white beaches, covered in rich tropical vegetation, offering the ultimate in privacy and luxury.
Each of the resort’s multilevel water villas has its own private pool and a retractable roof that allows guests to sleep beneath the stars. Many villas also have slides that transport guests directly from the top level into the lagoon below. Other hotel highlights include a spa, an observatory — home to the largest telescope in the Indian Ocean — and an outdoor cinema.
Since its opening, Soneva Jani has created a lot of buzz amongst luxury travellers with its exciting features such as the retractable roofs and the water slides. It has been named the Best Over-the-Top Luxury hotel of the year by Jetsetter.com, the best new resort in the world by CNN, and the Leading Luxury Hotel/Resort in South Asia and Leading Luxury Hotel/Resort in Maldives.
Featured
Green Globe Recertification underscores Hard Rock Hotel Maldives’ environmental vision

Hard Rock Hotel Maldives has once again achieved Green Globe Certification, reaffirming its commitment to sustainability as an integral part of its operations. Rather than serving as a mere statement, sustainability at the resort is woven into every aspect of the guest experience, internal decision-making, and long-term strategy. The certification follows a comprehensive, independent audit evaluating the resort’s performance against more than 380 stringent compliance indicators — a demanding benchmark that the resort successfully met.
Significant strides have been made in reducing the property’s carbon footprint without compromising comfort or quality. Energy consumption is managed through the implementation of smart room controls and occupancy sensors, while 99 percent of lighting throughout the property utilizes high-efficiency LED technology. Hot water is supplied by a generator-powered heat exchanger system, complemented by steam-powered laundry machines and energy-efficient appliances in kitchens, guest rooms, and staff facilities. Digital systems have replaced paper-intensive processes, and a Green IT policy ensures all computers are powered down when not in use — reflecting the brand’s dedication to mindful, sustainable operations.
Water conservation remains a central focus of the resort’s environmental efforts. Operating independently from public water systems, the resort employs a sophisticated treatment plant that purifies seawater for use throughout the property. Efficiency is further enhanced by dual-flush toilets, low-flow fixtures, greywater recycling systems, and real-time monitoring technology. Preventative maintenance and regular checks help minimise waste before it occurs.
Situated in one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable regions, the resort embraces proactive environmental action as essential. Electric buggies reduce carbon emissions on the island, while local sourcing practices lower transportation-related impacts and support nearby communities. A green procurement policy and ongoing staff training ensure that all departments align with the resort’s long-term sustainability objectives.
Marine conservation plays a prominent role at the resort’s Marine Discovery Centre, where initiatives such as coral propagation, guided snorkelling tours, and educational reef programs encourage guest participation in ocean protection efforts. A collaboration with Parley for the Oceans ensures that plastic waste is recycled and that marine ecosystems remain safeguarded for future generations.
Sustainability is seamlessly integrated into the guest experience at Hard Rock Hotel Maldives. From the visible to the behind-the-scenes, it shapes every detail of a stay. The Maldives Discovery Centre offers visitors insights into local culture through exhibits, artisan displays, and live performances that celebrate Maldivian heritage. Interactive workshops with local craftspeople and educational exhibitions on maritime trade routes provide guests with a rich, immersive understanding of the destination—highlighting the connection between community, culture, and conservation.
This Green Globe recertification is not viewed as a conclusion but as part of a continuous journey. It reflects an enduring commitment to protecting the environment while delivering the unique rhythm, flavour, and hospitality that define the Hard Rock Hotel Maldives experience. Here, sustainability takes center stage as part of the headline act.
Celebration
Island rhythms and Eid traditions at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives

This Eid al-Adha, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives invites discerning travellers to experience an enchanting celebration set against the spellbinding beauty of the Maldives—a private island paradise where refined luxury harmonises with vibrant tradition.
On Sunday, 8 June, the resort will host a thoughtfully curated programme of festivities that honour the spirit of Eid. Guests will be taken on an immersive cultural journey featuring the rhythmic beats of live Boduberu drumming and a captivating Badhiya dance performance, offering a celebration of Maldivian heritage and spirit. Younger visitors can look forward to a lively schedule of children’s activities designed to spark joy and creativity in an inspiring island setting.
As the sun sets, the celebration continues with a cocktail party on the beach, where the golden hues of dusk are paired with live local music and specially crafted cocktails. This relaxed gathering invites guests to savour the island’s warm ambiance as day gives way to night.
Later in the evening, the resort’s signature Seasalt restaurant will present an indulgent Eid Special Buffet. Curated by the resort’s expert culinary team, the buffet showcases a fusion of Maldivian and Arabic gastronomy, featuring aromatic Arabic grills, traditional mezze, and beloved Maldivian classics—all prepared with fresh local ingredients and a contemporary twist.
In celebration of the occasion, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives is offering exclusive holiday savings through its Summer Getaway offer. This includes daily breakfast and dinner, 20% off spa treatments and dining experiences, as well as roundtrip seaplane transfers. Guests will also have access to a curated selection of complimentary scheduled weekly activities, providing a deeper connection to the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Maldives.
Whether in search of peaceful relaxation, quality family time, or meaningful cultural discovery, Eid at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives promises an unforgettable celebration in every sense.
Featured
Sirru Fen Fushi secures coveted 2025 hospitality accolades

Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort, a secluded sanctuary nestled in the pristine Shaviyani Atoll of the Maldives, has been recognised in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards 2025. This prestigious accolade places the resort among the top 10% of listings worldwide on Tripadvisor, honouring its consistent delivery of exceptional guest experiences.
Tripadvisor, the world’s largest travel guidance platform, bases this award on genuine feedback from travellers who share authentic, first-hand reviews over a 12-month period. The Travelllers’ Choice designation is widely regarded as a trustworthy indicator of quality and excellence in the global travel industry.
The year 2025 has proven to be a milestone for Sirru Fen Fushi, with numerous nominations and certifications reinforcing its standing in the global hospitality arena. These include:
- Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards 2025 – Top 10% of hospitality businesses globally
- LQA (Leading Quality Assurance) Certified – Recognising adherence to the highest standards of luxury service and operations
- Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 – Nominated
- Condé Nast Traveller India Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 – Nominated
- Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2025 – Nominated
- Green Globe™ Certified – Commending sustainable and eco-conscious practices
These accolades underscore the resort’s commitment to delivering exceptional service, curating immersive guest experiences, demonstrating sustainability leadership, and showcasing authentic Maldivian culture.
Lukasz Prendke, General Manager of Sirru Fen Fushi, expressed gratitude for the global recognition, noting that each nomination and award is a testament to the team’s dedication, creativity, and meticulous attention to detail. He acknowledged the continued trust and support of guests and the international community as key to the resort’s ongoing success.
-
Cooking1 week ago
Gluten-free, vegan baking takes centre stage in Maldives with BBM, IREKS
-
Featured1 week ago
Heritance Aarah achieves prestigious LQA Certification, redefining service standards
-
Action1 week ago
Game on! Upcoming Meyyafushi unveils Maldives’ first overwater padel court
-
Awards1 week ago
Ifuru Island Maldives wins Best Premium All-Inclusive Resort at Golden Travel Awards 2025
-
Featured1 week ago
Summer of discovery awaits at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
-
News7 days ago
Summer of connection, discovery at Jumeirah Olhahali Island
-
Featured1 week ago
Float & Flow Yoga debuts at Holiday Inn Kandooma Maldives
-
Awards7 days ago
TripAdvisor honours Ifuru Island Maldives in top 10% of hotels for 2025