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Soneva honoured at Departures Legend Awards for eco-friendly initiatives

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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.

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Angsana Velavaru introduces curated day visit packages

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Angsana Velavaru has introduced a curated collection of day visit experiences, inviting guests to step into the rhythm of island life, even if only for a day. Designed for those seeking a brief yet meaningful escape, the new offerings combine relaxation, dining, and wellness within the resort’s expansive lagoon setting.

Set against the backdrop of white sands and turquoise waters in the South Nilandhe Atoll, Angsana Velavaru’s day visit experiences present an opportunity to pause, unwind, and reconnect. Guests may choose to spend their day by the pool, enjoying access to the resort’s facilities while taking in uninterrupted ocean views. A leisurely lunch unfolds at either Kaani restaurant or Kuredhi bar, accompanied by a selection of beverages, creating a relaxed and effortless dining experience by the sea.

For those seeking a more private retreat, the beachfront villa day experience offers a tranquil setting framed by lush greenery and direct access to the beach. Thoughtfully designed for comfort and seclusion, the beach villa experience allows guests to enjoy their own space while still being connected to the island’s vibrant surroundings.

Wellbeing remains at the heart of the experience, with guests invited to indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, complemented by exclusive privileges throughout the day. Whether spent lounging poolside, enjoying a private villa escape, or simply embracing the natural beauty of the Maldives, each experience is shaped by a sense of ease and balance.

Available from 01 May to 30 September 2026, the day visit package offers a seamless way to experience Angsana Velavaru’s distinctive island setting within a limited timeframe, making it an ideal option for residents and visitors alike.

At its core, the day visit experience reflects Angsana Velavaru’s philosophy of creating moments that are both simple and memorable—where time slows, and the essence of island life can be felt in every detail.

To learn more about Angsana Velavaru, please visit the resort’s website.

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Thomas Ling returns to The St. Regis Maldives for two-day sake series

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This October, guests of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort are invited to immerse themselves in the refined world of Japanese gastronomy as Thomas Ling, Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador and internationally acclaimed sake authority, returns for an exclusive two day sake experience celebrating culture, craftsmanship, and culinary artistry.

Curated on the secluded shores of Vommuli Island, the experience offers discerning traveler intimate access to one of Japan’s most respected voices in the world of Nihonshu, set against a backdrop of pristine natural beauty and serene seclusion.

Conferred by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan as a Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador—an honour shared among a select circle of global culinary luminaries including Nobu Matsuhisa and Tetsuya Wakuda—Thomas Ling has further received the Ambassador’s Commendation Award from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. With more than 24 years of refined expertise, he is celebrated for his dedication to promoting Japan’s “Kokushu,” the national collective heritage beverages of sake, shochu, and awamori, while safeguarding the cultural traditions that define them.

This collaboration forms part of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort’s Tastemaker Series, which brings together influential global talents to one of the Maldives’ most captivating private island destinations. The programme continues to define the resort as a place where creativity, excellence, and cultural expression converge, offering guests rare opportunities to connect with leading voices across culinary arts, fine wine, mixology, wellness, and sport.

A Curated Programme of Japanese Artistry

The experience begins on 5 October with an intimate Sake Masterclass hosted at T•Pan, the resort’s refined Japanese dining venue. Designed for a maximum of just 12 guests, the complimentary session offers an in depth exploration of premium sakes, guided by Ling’s expert commentary on brewing techniques, regional expression, and cultural significance.

The programme begins on 5 October with an intimate Sake Masterclass at T•Pan, hosted by Thomas Ling. Taking place from 15:00 to 16:00, the complimentary experience is limited to 12 guests, offering a rare opportunity to explore premium sakes through expert insight into craftsmanship, regional expression, and cultural significance.

On 6 October, guests are invited to indulge in a meticulously curated four course Sake Pairing Dinner at Orientale, where contemporary Japanese cuisine is elevated through thoughtful pairings that enhance flavour, texture, and balance. Designed as a one night only experience, the evening celebrates harmony between dish and drink in the spirit of true omotenashi.

The Four Course Sake Pairing Dinner will be served from 19:00 to 22:30, priced at USD 295++ per person.

For more information and details, please visit www.stregismaldives.com.

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The Standard, Maldives secures dual recognition from Condé Nast Traveller

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2026 stands as a milestone year for The Standard, Maldives, as the resort receives international recognition from both the UK and US editions of Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards, reaffirming its position as one of the Maldives’ most distinctive natural island destinations. Voted for by discerning global travellers, these accolades reflect the resort’s strong performance across key areas valued by readers—ranging from location and design to dining, wellness, and the overall quality of the guest experience.

Set on a 100% natural island with direct access to a vibrant house reef, The Standard, Maldives continues to stand out for its rare balance of unspoiled surroundings and personality‑driven hospitality. Guests are drawn to an environment where barefoot island living, intuitive service, and expressive design come together, elements that consistently resonate with Condé Nast Traveller readers seeking destinations that feel both authentic and memorable.

Adding to this momentum is the opening of Onda, the resort’s signature overwater Mediterranean restaurant. Set above the living lagoon, Onda introduces a new culinary rhythm to the island, celebrating fresh ingredients, expressive flavours, and a relaxed, social approach to dining. As dining remains a key consideration for Readers’Choice voters, Onda strengthens the resort’s culinary profile while complementing its existing portfolio of island-inspired, beachfront, and all-day dining experiences.

Wellness also plays a central role in the recognition, with The Standard Spa offering experiences that go beyond the expected. Personalised wellness programmes are tailored to individual needs, incorporating restorative treatments such as Kansa Wand Massage, Reiki Pranic Healing, Shirodhara, and The Standard’s signature Turkish Hammam and Steam experience: stylish, playful, and refreshingly unforced. This flexible, guest‑led approach to well‑being aligns with the growing emphasis placed by Condé Nast Traveller audiences on meaningful, restorative travel.

The resort’s Premium All‑Inclusive offering further enhances its appeal, providing seamless access to the full range of dining and lifestyle experiences across the island. From authentic Maldivian cuisine at Guduguda and Mediterranean specialities at Onda to smoky beachfront barbecue at BBQ Shak and themed all‑day dining that changes daily at Kula, guests enjoy variety, quality, and ease, an increasingly important factor for travellers evaluating overall value and experience.

With global accolades from Condé Nast Traveller UK and US, the opening of Onda, a strong wellness identity, and consistently positive guest feedback, The Standard, Maldives enters 2026 with confidence and clarity. These recognitions underscore the resort’s ability to deliver not just a place to stay, but an island experience defined by character, creativity, and a genuine connection to its surroundings—shaping a new standard for contemporary island living in the Maldives.

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