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Soneva Fushi to host ‘new Silk Roads’ author, academic Peter Frankopan

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Soneva Fushi in Maldives has announced plans to host highly regarded and celebrated academic, author and speaker Peter Frankopan this December.

Soneva has long been considered a pioneer in luxury travel and sustainability, as well as a desert island escape for myriad key thinkers from across the globe. As part of founder Sonu Shivdasani’s ongoing commitment to inspiring and educating guests at Soneva resorts, Frankopan will be visiting Soneva Fushi this December to share with curious guests his mastery on geopolitics.

An expert historian and Professor of Global History at Oxford University, Frankopan is best known for his intricate knowledge on the histories of the Middle East, Central Asia and China and his ground-breaking book, The Silk Roads: A New History of the World. Published in 2015, the book was a non-fiction New York Times bestseller and topped literary charts in UK, India and China. Just last year, it was named as one of the 25 most important books to have been translated into Chinese over the last four decades, along with The Great Gatsby and Pride and Prejudice.

Professor Frankopan will be hosting a series of talks and intimate dinners for guests at Soneva Fushi surrounding his most recent book, The New Silk Roads: The Present and Future of the World, in addition to opening up the table for debate and wider discussion on the topics raised.

Following on from his previous works’ success, his latest masterpiece has been described as ‘masterly mapping out of a new world order’ (Evening Standard) and takes readers on an educational journey that is both challenging and exciting. Frankopan’s work has been read across the world and he is regularly referenced as one of the most important minds globally today.

Frankopan will be based at Soneva Fushi from the December 14-23 to share his wisdom with fortunate guests. Whether it’s learning more about geopolitics, the Crusades, or better understanding Frankopan’s role as Senior Advisor and Academic Expert to a major project for the World Bank and Department for International Development (DFID) on Transport Corridors in South Asia, guests eager to learn more will be invited to listen to his opinions. With Frankopan also working as advisor to governments, inter-government agencies, multi-lateral institutions and corporations around the world, his is a voice not be ignored.

Guests staying at Soneva Fushi during Peter Frankopan’s residency will also be able to experience the skills of world-renowned therapist Roger Moore and former tennis professional Jonas Bjorkman.

The practitioner has a wealth of wellness knowledge thanks to his residencies across Asia and Europe, with his skills ranging from the western medical and scientific approach to health, to the Eastern Shamanic, esoteric and spiritual approach to wellbeing and happiness.

Moore will be at Soneva Fushi from December 13 to January 3, 2020.

Jonas Bjorkan was a former No. 4 singles tennis player in the world, winning six ATP Singles titles during his career. Jonas was also a former No. 1 doubles player, winning a total of 9 Grand Slams and 54 ATP Doubles titles. After retiring as a professional tennis player in 2008, Jonas now coaches other skilled players. In 2015, he was the coach of World No. 1 player Andy Murray (July 2017), and has now been coaching World No. 5, Marin Cilic, since 2016.

Jonas will be at Soneva Fushi from December 15-26 and will be offering tennis coaching for guests.

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.

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OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO unveils chef-led 9-Hands Dinner experience

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OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO has announced a 9-Hands Dinner event scheduled to take place from 25 to 27 May, offering a curated dining experience as part of its guest programme.

The event will feature a multi-course menu developed by three chefs representing Egypt, Madeira and the Maldives. Each chef will present dishes reflecting their respective culinary backgrounds, combining different techniques and flavour profiles within a single dining concept.

The dinner is positioned as an interactive culinary experience, bringing together elements of storytelling and presentation alongside the menu. According to the resort, the concept is designed to highlight both innovation and traditional influences in cuisine.

The experience will be included within the resort’s plan for in-house guests, forming part of the overall stay offering.

Commenting on the event, General Manager Alain Trefois stated that the initiative reflects the resort’s focus on expanding guest experiences beyond standard dining formats. He noted that the event provides an opportunity for guests to engage with culinary presentation in a structured setting.

Anupam Banerjee, Vice President Food & Beverage at Atmosphere Core, said the collaboration brings together different culinary influences, combining regional ingredients and techniques into a single dining programme.

Located in North Malé Atoll, OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO is known for its house reef and marine environment, offering a range of activities alongside its accommodation and dining options.

The resort has indicated that availability for the 9-Hands Dinner event will be limited, with advance booking recommended for guests wishing to attend.

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Sun Siyam Vilu Reef rolls out Wellness Week from 15–22 June

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Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, part of the Privé collection within the House of Siyam, has announced plans to host a Wellness Week from 15 to 22 June 2026, in conjunction with Global Wellness Week. The programme will be led by international creative and fitness practitioner Ilariia Auvitu.

Ilariia Auvitu, whose background spans multiple countries and disciplines including acting, modelling and fitness, will guide a series of sessions focused on structured wellbeing practices. Her approach combines physical activity with routines aimed at supporting mental balance.

A key component of the programme is the Tech-Free Sunrise Yoga and Breathwork Ritual. The session is designed to provide a period of structured activity without digital devices, with a focus on breath control and guided movement aimed at supporting mental regulation.

The schedule will also include Morning Yoga with Flow sessions, intended to establish physical rhythm and energy for the day. In addition, Pool Fitness sessions will be conducted in the resort’s pool area, offering water-based exercise.

Selected evenings will feature Sunset Pilates and Stretching sessions. These will include low-impact exercises focused on strength and flexibility, followed by guided stretching.

Through the Wellness Week programme, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef is offering a series of activities aligned with the observance of Global Wellness Week, combining structured fitness sessions with a setting designed to support rest and recovery.

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Baros Maldives unveils reef-focused ‘Fully Ocean’ programme

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Baros Maldives has announced “Fully Ocean”, a week-long programme of marine conservation, education and guided activities scheduled from 1 to 8 June 2026.

The programme coincides with World Reef Awareness Day on 1 June and World Oceans Day on 8 June. It is positioned as an initiative to involve guests directly in conservation efforts, allowing them to participate alongside the resort’s marine team in activities focused on reef protection.

According to General Manager Ibrahim Shijah, the programme builds on the resort’s long-standing focus on reef conservation and aims to position guests as participants in that effort. Baros Maldives, which first opened in 1973, is among the early resorts in the country to implement a structured reef restoration programme. The property, which is Maldivian-owned, has maintained ongoing work through resident marine biologists and operational practices aimed at reducing environmental impact.

The “Fully Ocean” programme will run as a structured schedule of activities throughout the week.

On 1 June, the programme will begin with a guided house reef tour, followed by an information session for guests to register for activities. The day will conclude with night snorkelling.

On 2 June, activities will focus on coral restoration. Led by marine biologist Carissa Cabrera, the programme will include a snorkelling safari and workshops on coral restoration methods. Guests will have the option to participate in coral planting or sponsor coral frames.

On 3 June, a fish-focused programme will include identification workshops and in-water sessions for divers and snorkellers. The afternoon will feature activities in the Palm Garden, including educational games and painting sessions, followed by night snorkelling.

On 4 June, activities will focus on reef ecosystems. The programme will include guided dives under the Microlife Finders initiative, snorkelling safaris and low tide exploration of marine species such as shells and sea cucumbers. The day will conclude with a “Glow in the Dark” session, combining a presentation with a UV-assisted night snorkelling experience.

On 5 June, marking World Environment Day, the programme will include a guided nature walk around the island and a photography competition titled “Maldivian Treasures”. A second “Glow in the Dark” session will be held in the evening.

On 6 June, the schedule will include guided reef tours and night snorkelling.

On 7 June, designated as Turtle Day, the programme will feature activities led by the Olive Ridley Project, including awareness sessions and workshops on turtle conservation and responsible interaction.

On 8 June, the programme will conclude with a guided reef tour, a reef clean-up activity and a final night snorkelling session.

Some activities during the programme will be complimentary, while others will be offered at an additional charge. Booking and programme details are available through the resort.

The “Fully Ocean” initiative will coincide with Baros Maldives’ “Endless Summer” offer, running from May to October 2026. During this period, the resort is promoting travel during the off-peak season, when marine conditions attract species such as manta rays and whale sharks to nearby atolls.

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