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Four Seasons Resorts Maldives announces partnership with NOW Force for Good Alliance, EarthCheck
Whatever the future holds, one thing is certain: there is much to learn and much to do.
At a time of immense change – when we are revising what it means to be a global community – Four Seasons Resorts Maldives is marking Earth Day 2020 by announcing a new partnership with the NOW Force for Good Alliance and EarthCheck: a commitment to creating a more conscious, collaborative and Earth-aware travel industry.
“The world has pressed pause and together we are on the cusp of an unprecedented moment of clarity, if we choose to frame it that way,” Four Seasons Resorts Maldives’ Regional Vice President and General Manager Armando Kraenzlin, was quoted in a statement, as saying.
“Here in the Maldives, we’ve long been aware of our responsibility to take mindful care of our planet and people. Launching our partnership with EarthCheck and the NOW Force for Good Alliance on the occasion of Earth Day 2020 – celebrated in our Earth Day video – underlines our determination to become even more accountable and transparent in all that we do and encourage the continual improvement that is so needed in the travel industry.”
The past two decades have seen Four Seasons Maldives marine conservation team Marine Savers – based at its two resorts of Kuda Huraa and Landaa Giraavaru – forge some of the region’s most ground-breaking ocean initiatives, including coral propagation, turtle rehabilitation and manta ray research.
These initiatives sit alongside on-site water-bottling plants, Parley-linked plastic recycling programmes, solar energy installations, local health and outreach projects, a TVET-accredited Hospitality Apprenticeship Programme and support for the Maldives’ last remaining lacquerware craftspeople in an ongoing programme that addresses all aspects of environmental, social and cultural sustainability.
And the ripple effects spread outwards from the resorts’ pristine islands, through moments that change guests’ lives; from days spent researching manta rays to coral reef transplanting, Junior Marine Savers experiences to wildlife monitoring dives.
“Our partnership with NOW and EarthCheck is about how we continue to expand our sustainability efforts in a changed world,” Kraenzlin said.
“With space to reflect suddenly forced upon us, the time is now to choose a different kind of future. Through collaborations like these, there’s a chance for the travel industry to establish a new way of being where sustainability actions are the norm, not simply the ideal.”
NOW Force for Good Alliance is a global community committed to raising the bar on how the hospitality industry and the traveller impact the environment, while EarthCheck is the world’s leading scientific benchmarking, certification and advisory group for travel and tourism.
Both provide stringent sustainable development goals and environmental standards that applying resorts and hotels must meet.
Some of Four Seasons Resorts Maldives’ most inspiring sustainability actions to date:
- Being the first Maldivian resorts to have marine biologists (since 2000) and introducing the country’s first – and most extensive – Marine Discovery Centres for conservation and research, now standard at most Maldivian resorts.
- Pioneering the Maldives’ first coral frame structures to regenerate local reefs. Beginning life as experimental reef ball structures in 2001, the coral frame project has since developed into Reefscapers: one of the most successful reef propagation projects of its kind in the world. To date, the project has deployed more than 7,000 coral frames, covering an area in excess of one hectare (2.5 acres) featuring more 40 thriving species of corals.
- Establishing the Maldivian Manta Ray Project (MMRP) in 2005, under then Four Seasons marine biologist Guy Stevens. MMRP became the founding project of the Manta Trust – now the world’s leading manta ray charity – instrumental in designating Baa atoll as Maldives’ first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2011.
- Introducing the first sustainable and environmentally responsible mosquito control initiative into the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (2015), working with Mosquito Lady Consulting (MLC). Four Seasons financially supported MLC’s dengue risk assessment of Baa atoll’s 13 island communities and is the main sponsor of the Dengue Eradication Programme on the island of Malhoos.
- Inaugurating the Maldives first Turtle Rehabilitation Centre in 2011, following guest donations and the rescue of an Olive Ridley turtle, Olivia. The Resorts’ turtle biologists have since: rehabilitated and returned more than 155 sea turtles back to the wild; significantly raised awareness of the plight of turtles in local and international waters; and re-homed six non-releasable turtles overseas (dubbed “The Flying Turtles”).
- Teaming with the Maldives chapter of environmental organisation Parley For The Oceans since 2018, by channelling plastic waste from resort operations as well as the collection of plastic waste from neighbouring islands. In the first year of operation, more than 1.3 tons of plastic were sent to Taiwan to be recycled into sportswear; plastic that may otherwise have ended up on the Maldives’ waste island or being dumped into the ocean. Parley-initiated Adidas sportswear, made from recycled plastic, is available at the resorts.
- Installing one of the Maldives’ largest resort-based solar installations. Spanning more 5,380 square metres (58,000 square feet) and saving between 250,000 and 300,000 litres (55,000-66,000 gallons) of diesel annually, it will also hopefully inspire other local resorts to adopt similar technology.
Combining innovation, wellness and conservation, Four Seasons Resort Maldives Landaa Giraavaru is a 44-acre, 103-villa wonderland in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve — a 30-minute seaplane flight from the main Velana International Airport.
Its sister property, Four Seasons Resort Maldives Kuda Huraa lies to the south: an enchanting garden island complete with Island Spa sea sanctuary and Tropicsurf coaches and guides. It features 96 thatched beach and water accommodations constructed by local craftsmen using indigenous materials and techniques to reflect a true sense of the Maldives.
The luxury catamaran Four Seasons Explorer connects the two properties via three, four and seven-night cruises, plus private leisure, surf and manta ray charters.
The latest addition to the Maldives collection, Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, Baa Atoll opened in 2016 as the group’s first exclusive-use private island: off limits to everyone else, limitless to the guests.
COMO Maalifushi has announced the launch of its new freediving programme, developed in collaboration with Fahd Faiz, the first Maldivian freediving instructor and a prominent advocate for marine conservation in the country. This initiative reflects the resort’s ongoing commitment to delivering transformative guest experiences while promoting sustainability, education, and professional development within its team.
Running from 27 July to 10 August 2025, Fahd Faiz’s residency marks the official introduction of freediving training at COMO Maalifushi. The programme centres on equipping the resort’s marine team with advanced skills in breath-hold diving, safety protocols, and heightened underwater awareness. These freediving techniques are set to be incorporated into the resort’s PADI offerings, providing guests with an opportunity to engage with the ocean in a more mindful and unrestricted manner.
Fahd Faiz is the founder of Freedive Maldives, the country’s first locally owned freediving centre, established in 2015. A world record holder in static apnea, he has trained more than 1,000 students and currently serves as President of the Maldives Freediving Association. As the country’s sole PADI Instructor Trainer, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the freediving landscape both in the Maldives and internationally.
Peter Nilsson, Managing Director of COMO Maldives, remarked, “Having Fahd with us at COMO Maalifushi has been an inspiring experience for the team. His passion for the ocean, combined with his exceptional expertise and dedication to education, aligns perfectly with our brand’s ethos of holistic wellness, sustainability, and authentic connection to place. This new freediving initiative not only strengthens our internal capabilities but also enriches the experience we offer our guests, allowing them to encounter the marine world in a deeper and more tranquil way. We are proud to support Fahd’s mission and delighted to introduce freediving at COMO Maalifushi.”
During his residency, Fahd is leading immersive training sessions with the resort’s marine team, focusing on breath control, rescue techniques, equalisation, and mental conditioning—skills essential to freediving and valuable in ensuring guest safety and engagement.
This new freediving experience at COMO Maalifushi is poised to become a signature offering, inviting guests to explore the depths of the Indian Ocean on a single breath, amidst vibrant coral gardens, tropical reef fish, and the meditative silence of the sea.
Long celebrated as a quintessential romantic escape, the Maldives is now enchanting travellers of every age — from families with children and teenagers to couples and solo adventurers. The JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa presents a setting where guests can share extraordinary experiences and create lasting memories, whether they are seeking exhilarating marine encounters, exceptional dining, or a tranquil wellness retreat.
The resort’s JW Little Griffins Kids Club, among the largest in the Maldives, offers a captivating world for younger guests. Designed around the theme of a beachside pirate shipwreck, the outdoor space features a 13-metre-long pirate ship, a dedicated children’s pool, and miniature amenities such as sun loungers. Over 100 engaging activities are on offer, including pizza-making classes, island discovery walks, kite flying, sandcastle building, and the JW Beach Olympics. Children under the age of 12 dine free of charge. Teenagers aged 12 and above have access to a private pool and lounge, as well as indoor entertainment such as PlayStation gaming and karaoke — ensuring a tailored experience for every age group.
For those drawn to the ocean, the resort’s Dive & Water Sports Centre offers a comprehensive array of aquatic experiences. From snorkelling vibrant coral reefs and scuba diving to dolphin spotting and deep-sea fishing, activities are designed to suit all interests and skill levels. Adventure-seekers can indulge in jet skiing, parasailing, wakeboarding, water-skiing, and kite surfing, while guests preferring a gentler pace can opt for kayaking, paddleboarding, or a traditional banana boat ride. The resort’s experienced team ensures each encounter with the ocean is both safe and unforgettable.
Those in pursuit of serenity can unwind at the overwater SPA by JW, where contemporary design harmonises with the soothing rhythm of the sea. Guests may select from a variety of rejuvenating treatments, including restorative massages, crystal facial therapies, and invigorating body rituals — all designed to promote inner and outer balance. A tranquil swim in the outdoor pool, framed by sweeping ocean views and gentle breezes, completes the experience.
Culinary exploration at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa is nothing short of exceptional, with five distinctive restaurants offering flavours from across the globe. Fiamma serves beloved Italian classics, while Kaashi offers Thai cuisine high in the treetops with panoramic sea views. Hashi presents refined Japanese teppanyaki over water, and Shio provides premium meats and seafood in a fine dining atmosphere. Aailaa offers a global dining experience throughout the day, with live cooking stations adding an interactive flair. Guests may also enjoy cocktails at Wabi Sabi, rare aged rums at Rum Baan, and a selection of curated wines from the resort’s expansive cellar. For more intimate occasions, private Destination Dining options include an eight-course Indian tasting menu at RIHA or bespoke meals under the stars or in-villa.
Solo travellers are equally well catered for, with the resort offering a unique combination of seclusion and luxury. Without the need to accommodate group plans or shared schedules, guests travelling alone are free to tailor their stay as they wish — from early morning yoga overlooking the Indian Ocean to private snorkelling sessions guided by marine biologists. The resort’s spacious overwater villas provide a peaceful refuge for reading, journaling, or quiet contemplation. Private dining options allow solo guests to enjoy gourmet cuisine in complete privacy, and the dedicated Thakuru (butler) service ensures every detail is attended to with care.
If the terms ‘peak performance’ and ‘breathwork’ are not yet part of one’s vocabulary, they are likely to be after five days at SOUL Festival 2025. Set to take place from 9th to 13th October at Soneva Fushi in the Maldives, this year’s edition marks the highly anticipated return of Jamie Wheal and Julie Webster, co-founders of the Flow Genome Project and two of the most prominent figures in the world of transformational wellness.
Following their captivating sessions at last year’s festival, the pair return with a newly curated programme of immersive experiences designed to enhance movement, mindset and emotional wellbeing. Mornings begin barefoot, awakening the body; days are enriched with science-based insights into the brain’s most powerful states; and evenings are grounded in restorative practices that leave participants centred, clear, and recharged. The Flow Genome Project’s methods, which are followed by elite athletes, creatives, CEOs and even special forces operatives, will once again be brought to life amidst the serene meeting point of jungle, ocean and refined luxury.
Throughout the festival, guests can expect movement practices that reconnect them with their bodies, workshops aimed at fostering greater ease in relationships, and breathwork sessions that promote nervous system recovery and a deep sense of calm. The experience is a journey in learning how to attune, release, and rediscover one’s natural rhythm.
Joining Jamie and Julie this year are Sanctum founders Luuk Melisse and Gabriel Olszewski, Nathalie Schyllert of Bodyism, Peigín Crowley of Ground Wellbeing, and a host of leading names in holistic health and performance, including Tim Gray, Dr Timm Golueke, Roses Gabor, Frida Redknapp, Kirsten King, Adrienne Adhami, Dong Juan, Anika Lefebvre, and Nils Behrens.
SOUL Festival is Soneva’s annual celebration of visionaries, seekers, and innovators from across the globe. This year’s programme is ambitious, the setting is extraordinary, and places are limited. Guests booking before 31st August 2025 will enjoy a 10% saving with the SOUL Festival early bird offer.
Returning home unchanged may not be an option.
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