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Soneva Jani partners with Olive Ridley Project

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Eco-friendly luxury resort operator Soneva has announced a partnership between its Soneva Jani resort in Maldives and the Olive Ridley Project.

The aim of the official new partnership involves hiring a special Turtle Biologist to oversee the Turtle ID Database in Noonu atoll, monitor turtle nesting activity at Soneva Jani, and eventually run the rehabilitation centre that will be built on the island to help sick and injured sea turtles regain their health. The Turtle Biologist will also run regular workshops and activities for guests at Soneva Jani to help raise awareness about turtle biology, their importance in the marine environment, and the threats they face today.

“We are thrilled to partner with Soneva Jani and look forward to working together to protect sea turtles in the Noonu Atoll. Our collaboration will provide a platform that ensures the best possible care for injured sea turtles and allows us to better monitor populations in the region. We are proud to be working alongside a dedicated and passionate team that share common values towards the marine environment,” Martin Stelfox, Founder and CEO of the Olive Ridley Project, was quoted in a statement, as saying.

Soneva Jani has been working with the Olive Ridley Project since 2017, during which the resort’s resident marine biologist has worked to remove ghost nets from the ocean, assisted in the rescue of injured turtles, and contributed valuable sea turtle photo ID’s to build a database of turtles resident in the Noonu atoll. The hotel has also welcomed Olive Ridley Project’s Senior Project Scientist Dr Jillian Hudgins and Lead Veterinarian Surgeon Dr Claire Petros to the island to conduct training and awareness sessions for both guests and staff on the subject of turtle rehabilitation, and to educate people on the dangers of ghost nets in the ocean.

“We are delighted to announce our recent partnership with the Olive Ridley Project, which will serve as a valuable platform for us to continue our commitment to raising awareness about the dangers that sea turtles face today,” Eleanor Butler, Soneva Jani’s Marine Biologist, said.

“The Olive Ridley Project is renowned in the Maldives for their ongoing, selfless work in turtle conservation, and we are beyond proud to be a part of this.”

Every year, it is estimated that 640,000 tonnes of ghost nets are discarded at sea, which amounts to 10 per cent of the world’s total marine debris. Ghost nets are commercial fishing nets that have been lost, abandoned, or discarded at sea. Every year, they are responsible for trapping and killing millions of marine animals including sharks, rays, bony fish, turtles, dolphins, whales, crustaceans, and birds. Ghost nets cause further damage by entangling live coral, smothering reefs and introducing parasites and invasive species into reef environments. Between July 2013 and July 2018, there were 601 turtle entanglements recorded in discarded fishing nets in the Maldives alone.

The Maldives is home to five species of sea turtles, the most frequently spotted out of these five are the Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas) and the Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata). Loggerheads, Leatherbacks and Olive Ridley turtles are the rarer species. Although all species of turtles have been protected by law in the Maldives since 1995, the major threats to these animals continue to be egg and meat poaching and entanglement in marine debris. All seven of the world’s species of sea turtles are on IUCN’s Red List with the Hawksbill turtle being listed as the most critically endangered out of the seven.

The Olive Ridley Project, a UK Registered Charity (No. 1165905), was founded in 2013 due to the large numbers of Olive Ridley sea turtles being entangled in fishing nets in the Maldives, where this turtle species is particularly rare. Most encounters with this vulnerable sea turtle in the Maldives are under stressful conditions; entangled in ghost nets, or floating injured on the surface. Turtles trapped in ghost nets regularly suffer from exhaustion, malnutrition, buoyancy issues and deep lacerations around the neck and flippers, and commonly require further specialist care and long term rehabilitation after being cut free from the net.

Opened in December 2016, Soneva Jani is Soneva’s newest property and the world-leading luxury hotel group’s second resort in the Maldives.

Soneva Jani is located on the island of Medhufaru within a 5.6 kilometre lagoon in the Noonu atoll, and has uninterrupted ocean views in all directions. The lagoon is 35 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport and one hour by speedboat from Soneva Fushi.

Meaning ‘wisdom’ in Sanskrit, Soneva Jani currently comprises 24 overwater villas and one island villa, with additional villas to be built in phase two. Five islands encircle the lagoon, each one with soft white sands and covered in rich tropical vegetation. Four of the five islands will remain untouched, making Soneva Jani the lowest density development in the Maldives. The overwater villas are spaced across the expansive lagoon, offering privacy and extensive views over the Maldives’ turquoise waters. The island villas will be tucked into the lush greenery, providing the ultimate privacy, and all within steps of the beach.

Soneva Jani’s main guest facilities are located at The Gathering, the heart of the overwater villas. This dramatic three story structure is home to the main dining outlets, in addition to the Soneva Spa, library, retail area and wine cellar. It is located next to the Maldives’ first overwater Observatory.

Facilities on the island include the overwater Cinema Paradiso, the Eco Centro Waste-to-Wealth centre, organic gardens, tennis courts, water sports champa and Zuhair’s Beach on a desert island in the lagoon.

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Dreamlike retreat: explore Maldives with Marriott Bonvoy Resorts

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The Maldives is a destination where summer feels eternal, offering turquoise waters, pristine white sands, and serene tranquility. Through the ‘Endless Summer’ campaign by Marriott Bonvoy, travellers are invited to escape the winter cold or bask in perpetual sunshine with a limited-time offer. Guests can choose from a selection of luxurious resorts in the Maldives and enjoy benefits such as a full-board dining plan, complimentary speedboat or seaplane transfers, or up to USD 250 in resort credit. Additional perks include non-motorised water sports like paddle-boarding, kayaking, windsurfing, and catamaran sailing, depending on the property. This exclusive offer, valid for a minimum stay of four nights, is available for bookings between January 20 and February 28, 2025, and includes Marriott Bonvoy points to unlock future travel opportunities.

The North Malé Atoll is a marine sanctuary renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and secluded luxury. Just a short speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, it hosts three Marriott Bonvoy resorts. These waters, rich with stingrays, nurse sharks, turtles, and dolphins, offer exceptional snorkelling and diving opportunities for adventurers of all levels. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, features 100 villas with ocean or lagoon views, infinity pools, and personalised butler service. Dining options span Cantonese, Japanese, Italian, and Middle Eastern cuisines, while the Ritz-Carlton Spa offers treatments inspired by Yin and Yang. Guests can also explore curated dining and art installations at Fari Marina Village and participate in the Defining Moment ceremony featuring Boduberu drumming.

The JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, located in the largest lagoon of Kaafu Atoll, offers 80 luxurious pool villas with ocean views. The resort combines contemporary design with personalised service and features seven dining venues, including Athiri and Nikkei, which serve steak and Japanese-Peruvian cuisine. The Spa by JW offers exclusive treatments by BABOR, while younger guests can enjoy activities at the Family by JW Kids’ Club and the teens’ zone.

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, set on a private natural island, provides 176 beachfront cottages and overwater villas that blend rustic charm with modern comforts. Surrounded by turquoise lagoons and lush palm groves, the resort offers family-friendly programs such as beach picnics, cooking classes, and nature walks. Its farm-to-table dining and coral restoration initiatives, alongside complimentary stays and meals for children under 12, make it a sustainable and family-oriented retreat.

North Ari Atoll, Dhaalu Atoll, and Baa Atoll showcase the Maldives’ extraordinary natural beauty. North Ari Atoll is famous for iconic dive sites and whale shark migration routes. W Maldives, reopening in March after a transformation, offers 77 overwater and beach villas with bio-boho designs. Guests can explore the house reef, enjoy unique dining experiences, and participate in private island excursions.

In Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort features 77 villas with private pools and panoramic views. The resort offers Ayurvedic treatments, the Maldives’ largest hydrotherapy pool, and signature experiences like the Champagne Sabering Ritual. Dining options include Japanese Kaiseki at T-Pan and a wine cellar boasting 650 labels.

Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is home to The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, which features 69 villas surrounded by lush foliage or perched above turquoise waters. The resort offers Japanese cuisine, pan-Asian flavours, and holistic wellness programs. Children under 12 stay and dine for free, making it a family-friendly haven.

In Lhaviyani Atoll, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa combines mid-century modern design with eco-conscious features such as a large organic garden. Guests can enjoy culinary experiences, spacious villas, and abundant marine life around its thriving house reef.

The Shaviyani Atoll offers ultimate seclusion at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, with 60 villas and personalised butler service. Families can enjoy the extensive kids’ club and adventure activities, while food enthusiasts indulge in farm-to-table dining. Water-sports like jet skiing and parasailing cater to thrill-seekers.

As the sun sets over the Maldives, Marriott Bonvoy invites travellers to embrace the promise of an eternal summer in this idyllic paradise.

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Turquoise waters, starry nights: Valentine’s Day magic at Dusit Thani Maldives

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This Valentine’s Day, couples are invited to immerse themselves in the ultimate romantic escape at Dusit Thani Maldives. Surrounded by turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and unparalleled luxury, the resort provides an idyllic setting for celebrating love.

Situated in the heart of the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Dusit Thani Maldives offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking to rekindle romance and create cherished memories.

The resort’s All-Inclusive Escape to Romance package has been specially designed to elevate Valentine’s Day celebrations. This exclusive offer includes:

  • Luxurious accommodations in either beachfront or overwater villas.
  • Delectable dining experiences with all-inclusive options.
  • A private dining experience under the stars.
  • Couples’ spa treatments at the award-winning Devarana Wellness, ensuring complete relaxation.
    Valentine’s Day Highlights

On February 14th, a series of enchanting events will be hosted to mark the occasion:

  • Romantic Beach Dinner: Guests can savour a gourmet meal paired with fine wines under a starlit sky, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the ocean.
  • Couples’ Sunset Cruise: A magical experience on the water allows couples to admire the beauty of the Maldivian sunset.
  • Devarana Wellness for Two: Signature spa treatments will provide an opportunity for relaxation and reconnection.
  • Love-Inspired Cocktails: Handcrafted cocktails will be available at the resort’s bars for a special Valentine’s toast.

Dusit Thani Maldives is described as more than just a destination—it is a place where love blossoms. According to Jean-Louis Ripoche, Area General Manager, Maldives, “This Valentine’s Day, we are delighted to offer couples an opportunity to celebrate their love in one of the most romantic settings in the world.”

Couples are invited to celebrate the season of love at Dusit Thani Maldives, where the natural beauty of the Maldives serves as the perfect backdrop for a memorable Valentine’s Day.

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Heritance Aarah joins forces with LQA for unparalleled guest experiences

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Heritance Aarah, a distinguished Premium All-Inclusive barefoot paradise in the Maldives, has partnered with Leading Quality Assurance (LQA), a UK-based organisation specialising in evaluating and enhancing hospitality standards. This collaboration aims to elevate the guest experience and establish new benchmarks within the Maldivian hospitality industry. Heritance Aarah is the first property within Aitken Spence Hotels and the first Sri Lankan hotel chain to adopt LQA standards, positioning itself as a pioneer in quality excellence.

LQA focuses on evaluating various aspects of guest experiences, incorporating internationally recognised benchmarks, emotional intelligence, and brand-specific standards. Through the actionable insights and comprehensive benchmarking data provided by LQA, the resort aims to measure and enhance its performance against global competitors.

Heritance Aarah has earned numerous accolades for its exceptional offerings, including recognition as the Best Beachfront All-Inclusive Family Resort by ‘Forbes’ and the Best Resort in the World – Indian Ocean by the ‘Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards’. As the first LEED Gold-certified property in the Maldives, the resort demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability, further solidifying its global reputation.

The partnership with LQA is set to refine service standards across critical touchpoints, including reservations, check-in, check-out, and the overall guest journey. This initiative aligns seamlessly with the resort’s mission to deliver unforgettable and seamless experiences for its guests.

Renowned as a premier culinary destination in the Maldives, Heritance Aarah offers a distinctive all-day dining concept across seven restaurants and five bars, curated by award-winning chefs and culinary Olympians. Guests can also indulge in a variety of wellness activities, such as Tai Chi, Reiki healing, Shirodhara, Tibetan Kunye healing sessions, Moxibustion with mantra chanting, and yoga.

By integrating LQA’s expertise with its own exceptional offerings, Heritance Aarah reinforces its position as a leader in hospitality and sustainability in the Maldives. This partnership highlights the resort’s dedication to redefining excellence and creating extraordinary memories for every guest.

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