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October nights are full of Michelin stars at Soneva’s Maldives resorts

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Soneva has announced plans to welcome a host of renowned Michelin-starred guest chefs and visiting experts from the worlds of sport and wellness at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani in Maldives.

The incredible line-up for October is part of the Festival of Colour – a two-year campaign across Soneva’s resorts which celebrates the diverse array of guest experiences on offer.

An exquisite opportunity to experience the culinary prowess of some of the world’s most talented chefs, during October every dining venue across both Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani will host a Michelin-starred chef for at least one evening. Guests at Soneva Fushi will also be able to delight their taste buds with a Michelin-starred food journey across the island, and watch in awe as award-winning chefs go head-to-head in a Michelin-starred cooking competition.

One of Asia’s most acclaimed chefs, Julien Royer, will be gracing Soneva Fushi’s Once Upon a Table between October 16 and 23.

The two-starred Michelin chef is co-owner of Odette at the Singapore National Gallery – named after Royer’s grandmother, it was recently crowned the Best Restaurant in Asia for its modern French cuisine focusing on seasonality, terroir and the finest artisanal produce sourced from across the globe.

With three Michelin stars to his name, Maxime Meilleur will be showcasing his craftsmanship at Soneva Fushi between October 6 and 11, followed by Soneva Jani between October 12 and 20.

The self-taught French master chef made his name through his family-run restaurant La Bouitte in the French Alps – which he has helped transform into a sophisticated gourmet destination, one of just 26 three-starred restaurants in the prestigious Michelin Guide.

The third French chef on October’s Festival of Colour line-up is Gregoire Berger. Ranked number 10 in the Best Chef in the World Awards 2017, guests will have the opportunity to experience Berger’s award-winning cuisine at Soneva Fushi between October 19 and 28.

Originally from Brittany, Berger honed his culinary skills in some of the world’s top kitchens, including France’s Le Pressoir, Le Domaine de Rochevilaine and La Grande Cascade, and today he heads the Ossiano underwater restaurant at Atlantis the Palm in Dubai.

Italian chef Giancarlo Perbellini, who is the president of the prestigious culinary competition Italian Commission of the Bocuse d’Or, will be bringing his pioneering culinary vision to Soneva Fushi between October 22 and 30.

Perbellini made his mark by blending cutting edge culinary innovation with traditions inspired by Italy’s rural heritage. The multi-garlanded chef was awarded his first Michelin star in 1996, whilst most recently his concept restaurant, Casa Perbellini, was awarded two stars by the Michelin Guide in 2016, with another star going to his other venture, the Dopolavoro Dining Room – an unprecedented double achievement in Perbellini’s Italian homeland.

From culinary masters to the world of sport, Soneva Fushi is set to host Jason Robinson, who is considered a living legend by both Rugby Union and Rugby League enthusiasts, from October 18 and November 3.

Robinson is famed for his trademark sidestep, devastating acceleration and daring manoeuvres that made him a crowd favourite during his time on the pitch. As a Rugby Union player, he won 51 international caps for England, as well as multiple titles for his club Wigan, including the World Club Challenge and Regal Trophy. In 2000, he switched codes to Rugby League to join the Sale Sharks as well as England’s national team and the British Lions, scoring 30 tries across 56 international matches, and captaining the England squad in the 2005 and 2007 Six Nations campaigns.

Former WTA tennis player Daniela Hantuchová will be at Soneva Fushi between October 18 and 27.

Now an acclaimed tennis pundit, during her career she won seven WTA tournaments, most recently the Thailand Open in 2015. Her biggest wins included victories over Serena Williams, defending champion in the third round of the 2006 Australian Open, and against world number one Caroline Wozniacki in the third round of the French Open in 2011.

Visiting practitioner Sandra Laznik will be hosting sessions at Soneva Jani between October 1 and 25.

The international wellness consultant is known for mixing science with the esoteric, and has a roster of private clients across the world. A professor of sport education, she is also trained in classical and sports massage, is a qualified Sun Power Yoga and Pilates teacher, and is a Universal Tao Healing Arts facilitator for Sacred Femininity Courses.

World-leading luxury resort operator Soneva runs two resorts in the Maldives, Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani.

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.

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.

For more information about the Festival of Colour, together with the calendar of visiting artists, visit www.soneva.com/festivalofcolour

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BABOR makes Maldives debut at JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort

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JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort has announced an exclusive partnership with BABOR, the internationally acclaimed German skincare brand, marking a new chapter in luxury wellness in the Maldives. This collaboration introduces BABOR’s high-performance skincare treatments to the Overwater Spa by JW, offering guests a fusion of advanced formulations and tranquil island experiences.

According to Srikanth Devarapalli, General Manager of JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, the partnership reflects the resort’s dedication to mindful living, sustainability, and holistic well-being. “Together, we are redefining wellness with transformative treatments at Spa by JW, that harmonise precision skincare with the serene beauty of the Maldives,” Devarapalli noted.

As a first for the country, the resort will offer BABOR’s signature treatments, including the prestigious SeaCreation line. This anti-aging collection utilises marine-based biotechnology and potent oceanic ingredients to revitalise the skin and restore its radiance.

The exclusive Ocean Bliss treatment, crafted specifically for the Overwater Spa by JW, blends BABOR’s SeaCreation products with soothing elements inspired by the surrounding ocean. This luxurious ritual promises visible skincare results and deep relaxation, set within the spa’s four overwater villas, which house six treatment rooms designed to enhance the sensory connection with the Maldivian seascape.

Located in Kaafu Atoll’s largest lagoon and only 15 minutes by boat from Velana International Airport, the JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort offers a harmonious blend of luxury and nature. The resort features 80 private pool villas—including 47 overwater pool villas—that merge traditional island design with contemporary elegance. Guests can explore five distinct dining venues and two bars, each showcasing ingredients sourced from the resort’s own JW Garden.

For BABOR, this partnership marks an important step in its global expansion, solidifying its presence in the luxury wellness market and extending its award-winning skincare offerings to one of the world’s most stunning destinations.

Tim Waller, Co-CEO of BABOR BEAUTY GROUP, highlighted the significance of this collaboration: “In today’s fast-paced world, true luxury lies in moments of tranquility and self-care. Our partnership with JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort allows us to craft those moments, offering guests a skincare experience that is as indulgent as it is results-driven.”

With a shared commitment to excellence, JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort and BABOR now invite travellers to embark on a wellness journey where cutting-edge skincare and the pristine beauty of the Maldives come together in perfect harmony.

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Explore Maldives with Marriott’s family fun summer offer

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With its postcard-perfect scenery and tranquil seclusion, the Maldives has long been a dream destination. Today, it’s also becoming a premier getaway for families, where multigenerational travel and immersive experiences take centre stage. Whether stargazing from a hammock by the shore or diving into coral-fringed lagoons, the islands offer a harmonious blend of peace and adventure—creating meaningful moments for travellers of every age.

This summer is all about togetherness, whether with family, grandparents, or lifelong friends. Marriott Bonvoy’s exclusive private island resorts across the Maldives welcome guests with the new Family Fun Summer offer. Each resort is easily accessible by speedboat or seaplane and includes a complimentary Full Board upgrade, free stays and meals for children under 12, and activities such as snorkelling, paddle-boarding, and kayaking. Curated family adventures add to the appeal, with the offer bookable until June 15, 2025, for travel through December 20, 2025 (minimum four-night stay required).

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands invites families to reconnect through refined service, striking architecture, and enriching activities. The Ritz Kids program, part of Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment, engages children in marine conservation and cultural immersion. Complimentary Coral Garden Snorkelling and nature-inspired activities unfold alongside beach fun and tennis sessions. The resort offers spacious beach and overwater villas, with larger groups enjoying The Ritz-Carlton Estate—complete with a private chef, infinity pool, and dedicated Aris Meeha butler.

JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort sits in Kaafu Atoll’s largest lagoon, blending Maldivian tradition with stylish luxury. The Family by JW™ Kids’ Club provides a large indoor-outdoor playground with water features, reading spaces, and nap areas. Complimentary water-sports, marine life encounters, and a Maldivian cooking class offer rich experiences. Families may opt for the Ocean Residence, which includes a spa room, gym, and a waterslide into the lagoon.

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, located on Furanafushi Island, offers rustic-chic villas and heartfelt island experiences. The ‘Side by Side’ program includes beach picnics, cooking classes, and nature walks, while kids enjoy the Sheraton Adventure Club. The Family Fun Summer offer includes complimentary speedboat transfers, dining credits, spa discounts, and cultural experiences such as coral planting through ‘Adopt a Coral’.

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, set on a remote island in Dhaalu Atoll, is designed for luxurious family escapes. Multi-bedroom villas offer privacy and panoramic ocean views. Guests enjoy curated experiences including private yacht trips, snorkeling, and trampoline classes. Children receive personalized welcomes and can explore the Children’s Club or socialize in the teen lounge. The Family Fun Summer package includes Champagne on arrival and a Sunset Dolphin Cruise.

JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa on Vagaru Island, Shaviyani Atoll, is ideal for multigenerational families. Beach and overwater villas include private pools and Thakuru butlers. Children explore over 100 weekly activities at the expansive Little Griffins Kids’ Club. Adults unwind at Spa by JW or savor farm-to-table cuisine. The family package features floating breakfasts, beachfront dinners, professional photography, and exclusive dining offers.

W Maldives, located on a heart-shaped island in North Ari Atoll, brings bold energy to the tropics. A recent renovation introduced the Splinterworks Vertex—Maldives’ first sculptural water slide. The redesigned villas, dynamic dining, and the WET Deck with vibrant nightlife offer a balance of fun and relaxation. Guests also enjoy a Sunset Dolphin Cruise and access to the stunning house reef at DOWN UNDER.

The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort in Baa Atoll, the country’s first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers a wellness-focused family retreat. Guests sleep soundly with Westin’s signature Heavenly® Beds and Sleep Well amenities. Kids benefit from the Savvy Sleep program, while the whole family can join yoga classes or recharge with WestinWORKOUT® activities. The summer offer includes painting sessions, dolphin cruises, photo shoots, and beach games.

Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa on Thilamaafushi Island, Lhaviyani Atoll, is a stylish, eco-conscious retreat inspired by the French Riviera. Families enjoy creative workshops, conservation projects, and lively events like pool parties, trivia nights, and stargazing. The Family Fun Summer package offers paddleboarding, snorkeling, padel matches, karaoke, and dolphin cruises—all set against serene turquoise waters and a thriving house reef.

Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and redeem points for their stays and experiences at these luxurious family-friendly resorts. Booking a multi-bedroom villa includes an added bonus of 25,000 points—making each family journey even more rewarding.

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Experience Songkran like never before at Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives

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Renowned for its exceptional Thai hospitality and authentic Maldivian experiences, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection, stands out as a premier destination for all occasions. Surrounded by turquoise blue waters and pristine white beaches, this tropical paradise invites guests to partake in a vibrant celebration of Songkran, the Thai New Year, on April 13th. The festivities include a traditional parade, thrilling activities, and a lavish dinner buffet under the stars, all complemented by signature island adventures.

Located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, the resort features 112 spacious beachfront and overwater villas, each just steps from a lively house reef waiting to be explored. Guests can enjoy a range of culinary experiences across the island, from authentic Thai cuisine at Suan Bua, to Italian dishes at Mare Azzurro, and international favourites at Reef. As an all-inclusive retreat, the resort caters to every type of traveller—whether couples seeking romance or families in search of discovery and fun-filled days.

On April 13th, the Songkran celebrations begin with a colourful parade featuring performers dressed in traditional Thai attire. Guests can then head to Water Sport Beach for an exciting array of traditional Thai games, such as Wing Sam Ka (three-legged race), Chuk Kra Yoa (tug of war), and Yeab Look Pong (bomb balloon), where participants tie balloons around their ankles and try to pop those of their opponents.

As the sun sets and the stars emerge, guests are treated to a sumptuous buffet-style dinner celebrating Songkran. Live cooking stations serve favourites like authentic pad Thai, sticky rice, and flavourful clay pot dishes. Grilled meats and fresh seafood are served alongside Thai-inspired desserts such as Kanom Tuay (steamed coconut custard) and Kluay Tab (grilled banana with honey caramel). With toes in the sand and the soothing sound of waves nearby, it offers the perfect atmosphere to gather with loved ones and savour the festivities.

In addition to the Songkran celebrations, April presents ideal diving conditions for those eager to explore the house reef. With crystal-clear visibility of over 30 metres, divers can encounter a fascinating shipwreck, vibrant coral formations, and marine life including nurse sharks, white tips, black tips, lemon sharks, leopard sharks, and rays. The resort’s dive centre provides all necessary equipment and expert guidance to ensure both an unforgettable and environmentally conscious underwater adventure.

This April 13th, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection, offers guests an immersive blend of Thai culture and Maldivian charm. With rich cultural moments, thrilling island activities, and unforgettable culinary delights, Songkran at the resort promises a celebration to remember.

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