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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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Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives unveils Eid al-Adha getaway packages

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As Eid Al Adha fast approaches, with it comes one of the longest breaks of the year. To make the most of this extended holiday, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection is ready to welcome guests to experience a different kind of escape shaped by nature, discovery, and meaningful moments. Just a short flight from the GCC, the island oasis offers the perfect setting for those looking to fully switch off and make the most of their time away.

At Machchafushi, every stay is an opportunity to step into what the resort describes as the ‘Machchafushi Universe’, a living ecosystem where life unfolds both above and below the water. The destination is home to a range of intricate coral formations, thriving marine habitats, plenty of tropical birdlife, and ever-changing ocean horizons, giving the island a sense of immersion that transforms a simple getaway into a true journey of discovery.

Just steps from the shoreline lies a vibrant underwater world. The award-winning house reef shelters a diverse community of marine life, from delicate hard and soft corals to schools of reef fish moving like living currents through the lagoon. Blue-tip Acropora and Maze Coral form captivating underwater landscapes, while sea fans sway gently in the current, creating habitats for seahorses, crustaceans, and a kaleidoscope of marine species.

For those seeking unforgettable experiences this Eid, the island’s marine encounters take centre stage. Guests can swim alongside whale sharks and manta rays, glide past reef sharks and stingrays, or explore the iconic Kudhi Maa shipwreck, now home to lionfish, batfish, and glassfish. Each moment offers a deeper connection to the ocean, making longer stays all the more rewarding.

Above the water, another world unfolds. Towering palms and lush vegetation create a natural sanctuary for a variety of birdlife, including Grey Herons, White-breasted Waterhens, and Black-naped Terns that glide effortlessly across the lagoon. Kayaking across crystal-clear waters, paddleboarding at sunrise, or discovering the magic of night snorkelling reveals a new rhythm of island life with each passing day.

For moments of reflection, the island’s 200-year-old Banyan Tree offers a meaningful and immersive ritual. Guests can take part in a sacred thread ceremony, setting personal intentions and connecting with the island’s heritage in a quiet moment that resonates deeply with the spirit of renewal.

Back on shore, the resort’s 112 beachfront and overwater villas provide a private sanctuary, blending island charm with contemporary comfort. Days unfold between immersive dining experiences across six restaurants and bars, and moments of relaxation at SPA Cenvaree, where Thai-inspired therapies offer a restorative pause.

To complement the experience, guests can take advantage of a selection of curated offers, ideal for those planning a longer stay.

Extended Stays with Added Value 

With one of the longest breaks of the year on the horizon, guests can also make the most of their time on the island through a range of flexible stay offers, featuring added-value inclusions and exclusive benefits across longer stays.

To explore the full range of current stay offers, please visit the website here.

Your Seamless Journey to an Island Escape

Begin your getaway in style with the resort’s ‘A Machchafushi Summer’ offer, designed to elevate your arrival while rewarding longer stays. Guests booking a stay of four nights or more can enjoy 25% off seaplane transfers, while those looking to extend their sojourn can take advantage of 50% off seaplane transfers for stays of nine nights or longer.

Booking Period: From now until August 31st 
Stay Period: From now until September 30th  

Offer: Enjoy 25% savings on seaplane transfers with a minimum stay of four nights, or 50% savings on seaplane transfers when staying for nine nights or longer

Terms & Conditions:

  • Applicable for new bookings only and subject to availability
  • Guests must remain the same throughout the stay; offer is non-transferable
  • Cannot be combined with other promotions or partnership discounts
  • All reservations must be guaranteed with a valid credit card
  • The resort reserves the right to amend terms and conditions without prior notice
  • In case of dispute, the resort’s decision is final

For bookings and more information, please click here.

Moments of Relaxation with Spa Credit

Elevate your next break from the ordinary and unwind with rejuvenating treatments at SPA Cenvaree, where Thai-inspired therapies are designed to restore balance and relaxation. As part of selected plans, guests can enjoy spa credit to enhance their stay, allowing for heightened levels of serenity that promise to transport you to a realm of complete relaxation.

Booking Period: From now until June 30th  
Stay Period: From now until December 31st 

Offer:

  • Half Board Plus: USD 30 spa credit per person per stay
  • Full Board Plus: USD 40 spa credit per person per stay

Terms & Conditions:

  • Applicable for new bookings only and subject to availability
  • Guests must remain the same throughout the stay; offer is non-transferable
  • Cannot be combined with other promotions or partnership discounts
  • All reservations must be guaranteed with a valid credit card
  • The resort reserves the right to amend terms and conditions without prior notice
  • In case of dispute, the resort’s decision is final

For bookings and more information, please click here.

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Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives unveils romantic getaway offers

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Nestled within The Atollia by Centara Hotels and Resorts, just a short speedboat journey from Malé, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives unfolds as the perfect island destination for honeymooners and couples seeking seclusion, privacy, and truly immersive experiences. Surrounded by tranquil lagoon vistas, the resort offers an intimate escape where every moment is designed to be shared, savoured, and remembered.

To elevate the experience, couples can enjoy a range of curated offers including seamless speedboat transfers, spa credit inclusions, and flexible stay packages, allowing them to tailor their escape to suit their ideal pace of travel.

Thoughtfully designed for togetherness, the resort’s collection of elegant beachfront and overwater villas offers a sense of space and exclusivity, allowing couples to retreat into their own private sanctuary. Expansive decks, private pools or Jacuzzis, and uninterrupted views of turquoise waters create a setting where time slows, inviting quiet mornings, unhurried afternoons, and evenings beneath starlit skies.

For honeymooners, each day at Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives is an invitation to connect more deeply. Private dining experiences by the ocean’s edge, sunset cruises across endless horizons, and thoughtfully curated moments of intimacy set the stage for memories that linger long after your stay. Culinary journeys are equally enchanting, with five distinct outlets offering everything from international flavours to teppanyaki and tandoor grills, Asian cuisine, and modern Mediterranean fare. A range of meal plans is available to suit every preference, and depending on the selected plan, couples can also enjoy access to the culinary offerings at the neighbouring underwater-themed Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, adding even more immersive and memorable dining experiences.

Wellness and discovery are at the heart of the resort. Couples can unwind with holistic wellness journeys at SPA Cenvaree Retreat, inspired by Thai healing traditions, or explore the vibrant marine world together through immersive water sports and marine adventures. Each experience is designed to be shared, remembered, and to linger long after your stay.

Beyond honeymoon escapes, the resort offers a timeless setting for couples at every stage of life. Intimate celebrations and vow renewals unfold against turquoise waters and golden light, creating deeply personal moments that are meaningful and memorable.

Rooted in Thai-led hospitality, every detail is delivered with warmth, care, and intuitive attention, allowing guests to immerse themselves fully in the rhythm of the island and experience the Maldives at its most serene and captivating.

Your Seamless Journey to a Romantic Island Escape

Elevate your arrival with a seamless start to your island escape. Designed to enhance longer stays, enjoy a complimentary speedboat transfer for two adults on all stays of four nights or more. This exclusive offer allows guests to experience the Maldives with added ease, where every detail, from arrival to departure, is taken care of.

Booking Dates: From now until June 30th
Stay Dates: From now until October 15th
Offer: Complimentary round-trip speedboat transfers for two adults on stays of four nights or more

Terms & Conditions:

  • Applicable for new bookings only and subject to availability
  • Guests must remain the same throughout the stay
  • This offer is non-transferable and cannot be combined with other promotions or partnership discounts
  • All reservations must be guaranteed with a valid credit card
  • Centara Hotels & Resorts reserves the right to amend terms without prior notice, with final decision in case of dispute

For bookings and more information, please click here.

Holistic Moments with Spa Credit

Sink into another realm of serenity and immerse yourself in a journey of relaxation and renewal, where lagoon living meets holistic wellbeing. With added spa credit on a range of room types, this experience brings together curated dining and restorative spa rituals, creating a stay that is as rejuvenating as it is indulgent.

Booking Dates: From now until June 30th
Stay Dates: From now until December 31st
Offer: Guests on Half Board Plus, Full Board Plus, All-Inclusive, and Atollia Destination meal plans, or those who book direct, enjoy a spa credit of USD 60 per person per stay

Terms & Conditions:

  • Applicable for new bookings only and subject to availability
  • Guests must remain the same throughout the stay
  • This offer is non-transferable and cannot be combined with other promotions or partnership discounts
  • All reservations must be guaranteed with a valid credit card
  • Centara Hotels & Resorts reserves the right to amend terms without prior notice, with final decision in case of dispute

For bookings and more information, please click here.

Flexible Stay Offers for Every Romantic Escape

Alongside these experiences, guests can choose from a variety of tailored stay offers designed to suit different travel preferences, with added-value inclusions and exclusive benefits.

To explore the full range of current stay offers, please visit the website here.

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Westin Maldives Miriandhoo introduces Family Fun Summer package

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The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort has introduced its Family Fun Summer offer, aimed at families seeking longer island stays built around shared activities and rest. The offer is available for booking from 15 April to 15 June 2026, with a minimum stay of four nights for travel through to 20 December 2026.

Located within Baa Atoll, the Maldives’ first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort is positioning the offer around family wellness, marine experiences and time spent together in a natural island setting. Seasonal snorkelling with manta rays in Hanifaru Bay remains one of the area’s key attractions, while the resort’s collection of beach and overwater villas is designed to accommodate families looking for space and flexibility during their stay.

For larger families and groups, the resort also offers the two-bedroom Heavenly Beach Residence, which includes a living room, kitchen and dining area intended to support longer and more relaxed island stays.

The resort says the guest experience can be shaped around both activity and downtime, supported by Westin’s Sleep Well concept and Heavenly Bed. Children have access to the Westin Family Kids Club, which includes a children’s pool and pirate ship, while parents can make use of Heavenly Spa by Westin.

Away from the villa, the resort is also promoting shared family experiences through Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy activities focused on the culture and environment of Baa Atoll. These include traditional lacquer craft workshops, visits to local islands and guided marine activities in surrounding waters.

The Family Fun Summer package includes three meals per day, with children under 12 dining free of charge. It also includes a one-time dolphin cruise for two adults and two children, a 30-minute photography session with one printed photo, and a USD 150 resort credit.

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