Featured
Three Michelin-starred Chef Kenji Gyoten to return to Soneva Fushi five times in 2019-2020

Soneva is set to welcome back Japan’s youngest three-starred Chef Kenji Gyoten to Soneva Fushi in Maldives four times this year and once in 2020.
As part of the world-leading luxury resort operator’s Festival of Colour, which runs from February 2018 to December 2019, Chef Gyoten will be at Soneva Fushi from March 25 to April 1, from April 27 to May 6, from August 13 to 24 and from November 10 to 17, and from January 31 to February 16, 2020.
During his time at Soneva Fushi, Chef Gyoten will be at So Hands On, Soneva Fushi’s sushi counter located in the overwater dining destination Out of the Blue. It seats just five diners and is said by some to offer the best sushi outside of Japan. The countertop is made from Hinoki, a Japanese pine that is commonly used for sushi counters, that has been polished with sake. The concept behind So Hands On is to create an intimate dining experience presided over by some of the world’s best sushi chefs for lovers of Japanese cuisine
Chef Gyoten was born in 1982 in the Yamaguchi Prefecture and was influenced by his grandfather, a sushi chef, into becoming a sushi chef himself. After working underneath his mentors in Tokyo, the chef opened Sushi Gyoten in Fukuoka at the age of 26, and has received three Michelin stars in three consecutive years since 2014.
Chef Kenji is known for using the hontegaeshi (hand flip) technique of Endomae nigiri to prepare his bite-sized sushi – a technique that is rarely seen these days. At Sushi Gyoten, the chef uses rice that has been sourced from a region in Kyushu, where there are extreme temperature differences between night and day for its unique flavour. He sources his seafood both locally and from the renowned Tsukiji fish market in Tokyo to ensure he only serves the very best.
In February 2018, Soneva launched its first ever two year-long campaign known as the Festival of Colour to celebrate 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 freedivers, astronomers, artists, wellness practitioners, tennis coaches and more at all its resorts.
In 1995, the award-winning luxury resort Soneva Fushi set the standard for all desert island barefoot luxury hideaways in the Maldives. Located in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Soneva Fushi pairs Robinson Crusoe fantasy with intelligent luxury.
Sixty-two private villas with their own stretch of beach are hidden among dense foliage within touching distance of a pristine coral reef. Intuitive service is provided by Mr./Ms. Friday butlers.
Highlights include the open-air Cinema Paradiso, counting Saturn’s rings in the high-tech Observatory, the home-made chocolate and ice cream rooms, five hundred wines to choose from, six different restaurants and countless destination dining options. In November 2015, Soneva launched a floating villa concept, Soneva in Aqua, a treasure trove children’s Den and a multi-purpose facility encompasses a glass gallery, boutique and studio where guests can learn the art of glass blowing.
If the experiences are magical, the philosophy is simple: No news, no shoes. No pretensions either.
Featured
AMRA Skincare arrives at Javvu Spa, Amilla Maldives

Javvu Spa at Amilla Maldives introduces an elevated realm of rejuvenation with the launch of AMRA, a renowned skincare line rooted in nature and refined by science. This carefully curated collection has been seamlessly integrated into the spa’s bespoke treatments, reflecting Amilla’s dedication to mindful well-being and sustainability.
Blending the healing properties of the island’s indigenous ingredients with AMRA’s advanced formulations, the AMRA Signature treatments at Amilla Maldives are designed to leave guests feeling renewed and deeply nurtured. Among the highlights is The Amilla Signature Journey by AMRA, which features gold and vitamin C exfoliation, a green caviar rhassoul mask, a 24kt gold stone massage, and a gold and green caviar facial—offering relaxation, skin refinement, and deep hydration (USD 570, 180 minutes). Additionally, the AMRA Olfactory Sound Bath Experience provides a restorative sense of balance through a combination of cleansing foot rituals, aura misting, personalised facial and hair treatments, sound baths, and chakra massage (USD 590, 180 minutes).
To ensure that each treatment aligns with AMRA’s philosophy, the therapists at Javvu Spa have undergone an immersive training program led by AMRA experts. This hands-on experience has deepened their understanding of AMRA’s innovative techniques and unique formulations, equipping them to deliver personalised, transformative treatments.
Narelle McDougall, General Manager of Amilla, expressed enthusiasm about the new partnership, stating, “With AMRA as our skincare partner, we are very excited about the variety of face and body treatments we will be offering our guests. The introduction of AMRA complements our ethos of creating serene, nurturing experiences that reflect the natural beauty of Amilla and the surrounding ocean.”
Each AMRA product is crafted using rare botanicals, precious minerals, and pure oils, designed to nourish the skin and soothe the soul. This harmonious blend of nature and innovation aligns with Amilla’s commitment to preserving the island’s tranquil surroundings while offering memorable moments of connection and care.
Guests are invited to explore the new offerings at Javvu Spa, where every treatment serves as a sensory journey—an opportunity to pause, unwind, and reconnect.
Cooking
Michelin-starred Chef Iside De Cesare joins The St. Regis Maldives for exclusive culinary experience

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, an exclusive luxury retreat situated on a private natural island, has partnered with Michelin-starred Chef Iside De Cesare to provide Marriott Bonvoy members with an exceptional culinary experience.
Through the exclusive Marriott Bonvoy Moments program, members have the opportunity to bid on a five-night stay for two in an overwater villa from March 25-30, 2025. This extraordinary package includes a private six-course dinner with wine pairings, curated by Chef Iside De Cesare, allowing guests to savour her Michelin-starred cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Additionally, the package offers a daily breakfast with breathtaking views of the Maldivian waves, a signature spa treatment, and a Blue Hole hydrotherapy pool experience at the award-winning Iridium Spa, along with return seaplane transfers.
Chef Iside De Cesare is a distinguished Italian culinary expert renowned for her Michelin-starred restaurant, La Parolina, located in Trevinano. Her cuisine strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savoury, emphasising seasonality, simplicity, and the use of high-quality, local ingredients. Her expertly crafted dishes reflect a dedication to innovation while remaining rooted in traditional Italian flavours. With a strong commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and sustainability, her philosophy aligns seamlessly with The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort’s dedication to refined dining, sophisticated indulgence, and environmental conservation.
Upon arrival, the winning bidder will be welcomed at a special reception and introduced to the serene surroundings of the resort. On March 27, guests will embark on a culinary journey with Chef Iside De Cesare, experiencing her exquisite creations and a unique interpretation of Italian cuisine. Marriott Bonvoy members are invited to bid for a chance to indulge in Chef Iside De Cesare’s Michelin-starred cuisine while enjoying an unparalleled luxury escape at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort.
Featured
Unforgettable couples’ retreat at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort

The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort provides an enchanting setting for an unforgettable celebration of love. Surrounded by swaying palms and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, the resort seamlessly combines serenity and romance, making it an ideal destination for couples seeking to rekindle their connection and create cherished memories.
Guests at the resort can wake up to the soothing sound of lapping waves and enjoy a nutritious floating breakfast delivered to their private overwater villa. These spacious, turtle-shaped accommodations feature floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase endless ocean views, along with glass floor panels in the living area offering glimpses of the vibrant marine life below. The Art of Love, a rejuvenating retreat at Heavenly Spa by Westin, is designed to refresh the senses and strengthen emotional bonds. This experience includes a 60-minute couple’s massage, a 30-minute facial, and a 30-minute heavenly bath, enhanced with sparkling wine and romantic décor. As the day progresses, guests can immerse themselves in the island’s tranquil beauty with a sunset yoga session or a breathing workshop led by the resort’s wellness specialist.
Dining at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort is an art form, where each meal becomes a memorable experience. On Valentine’s Day, guests can enjoy a five-course Japanese set menu at the elegant restaurant Pearl, accompanied by a bottle of champagne. Alternatively, an intimate candlelight dinner by the sea offers a five-course set menu with live BBQ prepared by a private chef and complemented by a bottle of sparkling wine. As the night unfolds, visitors can celebrate under the Maldivian sky with a DJ party at Sunset Bar. Beyond Valentine’s Day, the resort’s Destination Dining provides various private beach dinner experiences available year-round.
For those looking to stay active, the resort offers a range of invigorating activities. The 24/7 WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio features state-of-the-art TRX equipment, while a full-sized tennis court allows guests to maintain their fitness routines. Adventure seekers can embark on a dolphin cruise or snorkelling excursion to explore the vibrant underwater world together. For a more leisurely experience, complimentary ocean kayaks are available for guests to paddle through the crystal-clear lagoon.
Situated on a natural island within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort harmonises with its breathtaking surroundings, providing an idyllic sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation.
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