News
Soneva honoured at Departures Legend Awards for eco-friendly initiatives
Soneva has been recognised for its eco-friendly initiatives.
In its 2020 Legend Awards, Departures magazine listed Soneva’s Namoona Baa initiative amongst “The Best Eco-Initiatives in Hospitality This Year”.
Namoona Baa sees the islands of Maalhos, Dharavandhoo, and Kihaadhoo in the Baa atoll pledging to end the open burning of island waste, in a radical shift towards eco-friendly waste management.
The pledge was made by the presidents of Maalhos, Dharavandhoo, and Kihaadhoo island councils, during a workshop on waste held at Soneva Fushi on January 5-8, 2019.
To end the practice of the open burning of waste, which poses a health and environmental hazard and damages tourism, each island will create an ‘eco-centro’ waste-to-wealth centre that will sort, recycle and reuse island waste.
The eco-centro model was pioneered at Soneva Fushi, which is located close to Maalhos. At the resort, food and organic waste, metals, and bottles are chipped, ground down or composted, and turned into things of economic value, such as concrete building blocks and fertiliser. Plastic waste is either recycled or used to create useful new objects.
Soneva has pledged funds from its Soneva Save our Seas programme to support the creation of the eco-centros on Maalhos, Dharavandhoo, and Kihaadhoo. During the January workshop, the island council presidents helped forge a new partnership amongst their islands, Soneva Fushi, and Common Seas, an international NGO dedicated to reducing marine plastic pollution.
The new partnership — part of the international Clean Blue Alliance which supports islands to prevent plastic waste leaking into the ocean — sets a course for Baa atoll, and eventually the Maldives, to become a global leader in halting ocean plastic pollution.
The Maalhos eco-centro waste-to-wealth centre – an innovative, waste processing complex modelled on Soneva Fushi’s Eco Centro — was inaugurated in February.
At the complex, the island’s waste is sorted into different categories such as plastic, glass, tin and wood; which is then compacted, crushed, and chipped where possible, and sent for recycling. The new eco-centro has enabled Maalhos to completely stop the open burning of rubbish and waste – making it the first inhabited island in the Maldives to do so.
Dealing with waste, particularly plastic, is a major issue for every island community in the Maldives. Plastic bottles and bags tend to litter streets, island jungle and beaches, while waste is routinely burned in toxic, open bonfires. Human health and guesthouse tourism suffer as a direct result of this practice.
Under the Namoona Baa Initiative, the Maalhos model will be expanded to neighbouring Dharavandhoo and Kihaadhoo, with eco-centro waste-to-wealth centres established on both islands later this year. With government support, it is hoped that the model can be rolled out across the Baa atoll, and eventually the whole of the Maldives.
In August 2019, Common Seas produced a preliminary report for the Maldivian government showing how the island nation could radically reduce the amount of single-use plastic it consumes, and reduce plastic pollution.
In September 2019, at his maiden address to the UN General Assembly, Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih announced a nationwide phase-out of single-use plastics to be implemented by 2023, including phase-outs of single-use plastic bottles and bags. It is one of the most comprehensive phase-outs of single use plastics in the world.
Soneva currently runs two resorts in the Maldives, Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani, and luxury yacht, Soneva in Aqua. The world-leading luxury resort operator also operates Soneva Kiri resort in Thailand.
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 amongst dense foliage within touching distance of a pristine coral reef. Eight new one- and two-bedroom Water Retreats, perched above the turquoise depths of the Indian Ocean, are scheduled to open to guests by May. 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.
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.
Departures magazine launched the Legend Awards last year.
The awards, selected by the Departures editorial team, span 24 categories, from Best Luxury Hotel Opening to Most Instagrammable Destination, covering every aspect of air, rail, and hotel travel experiences and amenities.
For the 2020 Legend Awards, editors curated the list of honourees based on experiences between May 1, 2019 to March 31, 2020, awarding honours to at least 10 properties, products or services per category.
News
Three Marriott Bonvoy resorts in Maldives launch festive early bird offers
This festive season, trade crowded city streets and familiar celebrations for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday in the Maldives. Surrounded by turquoise lagoons, powder-soft beaches and endless Indian Ocean horizons, travellers can reconnect with family, friends and loved ones through meaningful experiences in one of the world’s most coveted island destinations. From December 20, 2026 to January 10, 2027, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort and Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa invite guests to celebrate the holidays with exclusive Festive Early Bird offers available to book from now until November 15, 2026.
Across the three resorts, guests can enjoy a variety of festive season benefits, from resort credits and wellness experiences to water adventures, family-friendly activities, live entertainment and cultural experiences, with exclusive inclusions tailored to each destination. Families can enjoy added value with complimentary stay and dining for children under 12, while couples and groups of friends can create unforgettable memories through curated island experiences, exceptional dining and spectacular year-end celebrations set against the natural beauty of the Maldives.
A Festive Island Escape Just Moments from Malé
Just 10 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa offers one of the most convenient festive escapes in the Maldives. Set on the lush private island of Furanafushi in North Malé Atoll, the resort combines contemporary comforts with the relaxed charm that has made it a favourite for generations of travellers. Spacious accommodations range from interconnecting guest rooms for families to beachfront and overwater villas suited to couples and friends traveling together.
This festive season, the resort unveils Island Lumière, a celebration inspired by light, warmth and togetherness. From December 1, 2026 through January 7, 2027, guests can experience the elegance of White & Gold Christmas before welcoming the New Year with the radiant glow of Peach Lumière. Days unfold with coral restoration experiences alongside marine biologists, sunrise yoga sessions, sound healing rituals, snorkelling adventures and a festive Christmas Day Beach BBQ by the shore. As the sun sets, the island comes alive with the Full Moon Beach Party, the White & Gold Christmas Gala and the New Year’s Eve Peach Lumière Gala beneath the stars. Younger guests can immerse themselves in Santa’s Workshop, festive scavenger hunts, creative art activities and interactive island adventures that spark imagination and connection.
The package includes complimentary shared speedboat transfers, daily breakfast, lunch and dinner at selected restaurants, USD 45 dining credit per adult per night at specialty restaurants, and access to festive activities, making it an ideal choice for families seeking effortless island celebrations close to Malé.

The White Isle: A Celebration of Sunshine, Discovery and Joie de Vivre
Surrounded by a spectacular 360-degree lagoon in Lhaviyani Atoll, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa brings together the glamour of the French Riviera and the natural beauty of the Maldives in a distinctive festive escape. Arriving via a scenic 35-minute seaplane flight from Malé, guests are welcomed by powder-soft beaches, a thriving house reef and a vibrant island atmosphere that encourages exploration, creativity and connection.
Ideal for couples, families and groups of friends, the resort features spacious beach and overwater villas, including the Three-Bedroom Thilamaafushi Villa, perfectly suited for multi-generational gatherings and celebratory getaways. Guests can spend their days exploring one of the Maldives’ premier destinations for year-round turtle encounters, visiting the Marine Conservation Hub, foraging fresh ingredients at The Greenhouse, enjoying a friendly game of padel or discovering the wonders of the night sky through guided stargazing sessions with the resort’s resident astronomer.
Throughout the festive season, La Fête by Le Méridien transforms Thilamaafushi Island into The White Isle, a celebration of luminous whites, joyful gatherings and European-inspired holiday traditions. From festive feasts and family moments to music-filled evenings and celebrations beneath the stars, timeless traditions are reimagined through the lens of island life. Guests are invited to embrace the simple pleasures of the season through culture, cuisine and discovery, while younger travellers can immerse themselves in Gingerbread Wonderland masterclasses and a vibrant calendar of festive activities at The Family Kids Hub.
The package includes a USD 100 daily resort credit, daily breakfast, lunch and dinner across selected restaurants, a curated festive program and more. The result is a vibrant island holiday where every moment is an invitation to celebrate the season with family and friends.

A Restorative Festive Escape in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll
Nestled within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort provides the perfect setting for restorative wellness, natural beauty and quality time with loved ones. Reached via a scenic 35-minute seaplane journey from Malé, the resort is surrounded by crystal-clear waters renowned for vibrant coral reefs, rich marine biodiversity and unforgettable encounters with manta rays and whale sharks.
Designed for travellers seeking both privacy and togetherness, the resort’s spacious beach and overwater pool villas provide a serene sanctuary for couples and families alike. Larger groups and multi-generational travellers can retreat to the expansive Two-Bedroom Heavenly Beach Residence, complete with generous living spaces and a private pool.
From December 22, 2026 to January 6, 2027, a thoughtfully curated festive program brings holiday traditions to life through tropical island experiences. Guests can gather for the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, indulge in festive dining experiences and ring in the New Year with an elegant celebration culminating in a spectacular fireworks display over the Indian Ocean. Beyond the festivities, visitors can reconnect through wellness experiences at Heavenly Spa by Westin, marine adventures and moments of relaxation in one of the Maldives’ most pristine settings.
The package highlights include daily breakfast and dinner, a USD 100 dining credit per stay, a dolphin cruise for two adults and two children, one-hour ocean kayaking and a complimentary floating breakfast when booking selected villa categories.

To discover more about Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of resorts in the Maldives, visit marriott.com/maldives or click here to start planning your festive escape now.
Drink
THE OZEN COLLECTION to host sixth Bodegas Viñátigo wine master class
For wine lovers and curious travellers alike, there are few experiences as captivating as discovering a wine with a story. And few stories are as compelling as that of Bodegas Viñátigo a winery born from the volcanic soils of Tenerife, where winemakers have spent over thirty years bringing nearly forgotten grape varieties back to life.
This November, that story arrives once again in the Maldives, as THE OZEN COLLECTION hosts the sixth annual Bodegas Viñátigo Wine Master Class, a rare and immersive journey through the flavours, traditions, and artistry of the Canary Islands.
The journey begins at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO from 23rd to 25th November with The Submerged Cellar Soirée at M6m, the iconic underwater restaurant six metres beneath the lagoon, with the experimental underwater aged wines as welcome drink and a curated menu celebrating land and sea is thoughtfully paired with the expressive wines of Tenerife. The exploration continues across the resort’s signature dining venues, each offering a distinct perspective on the Bodegas Viñátigo collection. At Sea, Salt & Soy, the bold flavours of Pan-Asian cuisine meet the nuanced elegance of Canarian wines at TRADITION PEKING, creating a symphony of taste and texture. The experience culminates with Brunch with Shakespeare, a refined and poetic conclusion to the Maadhoo chapter, where wine, food, and storytelling converge beneath the Maldivian sun.

“Our wines from Tenerife’s volcanic soil to the pristine shores of the Maldives has been an extraordinary experience,” shares Juan Jesús Méndez. “Our collaboration with THE OZEN COLLECTION has allowed us to share these remarkable wines with a global audience. The continued enthusiasm from our guests encourages us to create even more expressions of our wines.”
The vinous voyage continues at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI from 27th to 29th November, where curated dinners and tastings explore the artistry of the wines through innovative culinary collaborations. The journey begins with The Sand Cellar Soirée at ORIGINꓱ, a contemporary dining experience that pairs the depth of volcanic wines with modern gastronomic artistry. A Pan-Asian dinner at Sand, Smoke & Soy brings together two distinctive culinary traditions in a creative dialogue, exploring the harmony between bold island flavours and the heritage of the Canary Islands. The experience culminates with Sunset with Shakespeare, an intimate beachside wine pairing offering guests the rare opportunity to engage directly with the Bodegas Viñátigo wine makers, connect with the passion and heritage behind each vintage, and toast to an unforgettable journey.
“Canary wine is a story of land, tradition, and connection. My journey with Bodegas Viñátigo has taken me to the annual harvest in Tenerife recently, where I witnessed the care and precision that shape every vintage. That experience brought a new level of detail and understanding to our collaboration, reinforcing our commitment to bringing guests not just a wine, but a sense of place. This partnership has enriched our offering and deepened our dedication to authentic, terroir-driven experiences,” said Rohit Salunke, Assistant Director of Wines at Atmosphere Core, said about his experience with the wine makers.

Since 2021, THE OZEN COLLECTION and Bodegas Viñátigo have shared a commitment to authenticity, craftsmanship, and the art of winemaking. Each year, this exclusive collaboration brings the rare volcanic wines of Tenerife to the shores of the Maldives, offering guests an intimate glimpse into the heritage and passion behind every vintage. Over the years, the programme has evolved into a signature event on the Maldivian luxury calendar, a celebration of terroir, tradition, and the enduring bond between two island cultures.
As part of the resort’s all-encompassing RESERVE™ Plan and INDULGENCE™ Plan, this once-a-year experience invites guests to indulge in an extraordinary celebration of wine, cuisine, and island beauty. With limited spaces and a programme designed to enchant both connoisseurs and newcomers alike, we encourage you to reserve your place and raise a glass to the artistry of land, sea, and timeless craft.
Meditation
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort to mark World Wellness Weekend with three-day celebration
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort will commemorate World Wellness Weekend 2026 with an immersive three-day celebration inspired by the restorative power of nature. Taking place from September 18 to 20, 2026, the thoughtfully curated program invites guests to embrace mindful living, holistic wellbeing, and meaningful connection through experiences designed to foster balance, vitality, and renewal in an extraordinary island setting.
Rooted in the St. Regis tradition of crafting exceptional experiences, the weekend brings together movement, mindfulness, self-care, and wellness education against the breathtaking backdrop of the Maldives. The three-day program includes yoga and meditation, Pilates, strength and fitness training, Anti-Gravity Yoga, aquatic fitness experiences, skincare workshops, and guided self-care sessions. These experiences encourage guests to reconnect with themselves, cultivate inner balance, and embrace a more mindful way of living.
Nestled between lush tropical rainforest and pristine white-sand beaches on a private island in Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort offers a serene sanctuary where luxury and wellbeing exist in harmony. From sunrise rituals overlooking the Indian Ocean to transformative experiences at the award-winning Iridium Spa, every element of the weekend is thoughtfully designed to inspire presence, deepen one’s connection with nature, and nurture a lasting sense of wellbeing.

Day One | Friday, September 18, 2026
The weekend begins with Morning Yoga at the Yoga Sala, where guests are invited to greet the day with sun salutations that energise the body and calm the mind. A dynamic blend of aerobics and boxing follows, designed to strengthen, challenge, and invigorate.
Later, guests can explore the principles of holistic wellbeing during Balancing Your Doshas, an interactive Ayurvedic workshop focused on achieving greater harmony between mind, body, and environment. The afternoon continues with an energising Beach Boot Camp, before transitioning into a restorative Chakra Yoga session, encouraging self-expression, authenticity, and personal growth.

Day Two | Saturday, September 19, 2026
The second day begins with Sunrise Yoga and Meditation, followed by Mat Pilates, session designed to enhance core strength, balance, and flexibility.
A highlight of the day, Anti-Gravity Yoga combines traditional yoga principles with suspended movement, creating a unique experience that is both engaging and restorative. At Iridium Spa, guests may participate in a Skin Analysis Workshop, featuring personalised consultations and expert recommendations tailored to individual skincare and wellness goals.
The afternoon features Strength Training, before concluding with a guided Chakra Meditation centred on Ajna, the third-eye chakra, encouraging clarity, intuition, and reflection.

Day Three | Sunday, September 20, 2026
The final day starts with a tranquil Morning Yoga session, followed by an invigorating HIIT Workout, challenging participants with high-intensity movement designed to elevate fitness, endurance, and vitality.
Guests are then welcomed to the iconic overwater Iridium Spa for an interactive BR Skin Instant® Workshop, where tailored insights and expert advice highlight the relationship between wellbeing and radiant, healthy skin.
The wellness journey continues with Pool Bike Fitness, a low-impact aquatic workout that combines resistance and cardiovascular training, followed by The Art of Massage Workshop, where guests can learn simple therapeutic techniques to support relaxation and recovery.
The weekend concludes with a Modified HYROX Workout on the beach, a dynamic functional fitness challenge that blends strength, stamina, and cardio. A final Chakra Yoga session dedicated to Sahasrara, the crown chakra, brings the celebration to a meaningful close.
A Journey to Renewal
Nestled between lush tropical rainforest and pristine white-sand beaches on a private island in Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort provides an extraordinary setting for renewal and discovery. From sunrise rituals overlooking the Indian Ocean to transformative experiences at the award-winning Iridium Spa, every element of the World Wellness Weekend is thoughtfully designed to inspire presence, deepen one’s connection with nature, and nurture a lasting sense of wellbeing.
For more information on World Wellness Weekend 2026 and the resort’s wellness offerings, visit stregismaldives.com.
-
News1 week agoMadifushi Private Island celebrates Maldivian heritage on World Coconut Day
-
Meditation1 week agoCOMO Resorts Maldives brings marine experts, artists and wellness specialists to its islands
-
Awards1 week agoSun Siyam Vilu Reef secures Best House Reef title at TTM Awards
-
News1 week agoHuvafen Fushi expands wellness offering with Aromatherapy Associates treatments
-
Action1 week agoKandima Maldives lines up sports residencies and family festivities for October
-
Entertainment1 week agoSilent DJ brings music and movement to Madifushi Private Island
-
Action1 week agoNova Maldives to host PADI AWARE Week this September
-
News1 week agoCulinary encounters and island experiences shape festivities at The Nautilus Maldives


