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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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Sun Siyam Vilu Reef opens new beach club and Italian restaurant

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Sun Siyam Vilu Reef continues its evolution with the introduction of YAYA Beach Club and Tuscany, two distinctive additions to the resort’s dining and lifestyle experiences. Following the unveiling of its reimagined villas earlier this year, the latest developments bring a fresh dimension to island life, combining relaxed beachside gatherings, music, creative cocktails and the warmth of Italian hospitality.

The launch coincided with the resort’s 28th anniversary celebrations, held from 28 to 30 October under the theme A New Rhythm of the Reef. The three-day programme brought together international DJs, live entertainment, wellness experiences and a special culinary residency by Chef Fatjon Goga, marking another milestone for the first resort in the Sun Siyam portfolio, which opened in 1998.

YAYA Beach Club: A New Signature Experience

At the heart of this new chapter is YAYA Beach Club, the first introduction of this new Sun Siyam Signature Experience across the resort collection.

Designed as a relaxed social space where food, drinks, music and playful moments come together, YAYA brings fresh energy to the island while remaining true to the intimate character of Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, part of the group’s Privé Collection.

The experience unfolds naturally throughout the day, beginning with Club Café, where speciality coffee and music set a relaxed atmosphere. As the day progresses, Smoothies & Spritzes offers refreshing drinks and cocktails, complemented by casual beachside dining, sharing plates, island-inspired games and informal tasting experiences.

What sets YAYA apart is its attention to the smaller moments of hospitality. From chilled towels and fresh coconuts to spontaneous drinks and thoughtful surprises from the team, the concept is designed to create memorable experiences that feel natural and personal rather than programmed.

As the afternoon moves towards sunset, music and cocktails introduce a new rhythm through YAYA’s signature sunset ritual. The concept also includes special monthly Full Moon Soirées, bringing together candlelight, music, sharing plates and drinks beneath the Maldivian night sky.

Open daily from 10:30 to 19:00, YAYA Beach Club welcomes guests of all ages until 17:00, offering a relaxed beachfront setting for lunch, speciality coffee and refreshing drinks. From 17:00 to 19:00, the atmosphere transitions to an adults-only experience for drinks, music and sunset moments. Food service is for lunch only.

As the first YAYA Beach Club in the Sun Siyam portfolio, the concept marks the beginning of a new Signature Experience designed to become a recognisable part of the group’s hospitality offering.

Tuscany: The Warmth of Italian Dining by the Ocean

Complementing the relaxed energy of YAYA Beach Club, Tuscany introduces a different dining experience to Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, inspired by the warmth, generosity and simplicity of Italian cuisine.

Tuscany will welcome guests for dinner daily from 18:30 to 21:30, offering an inviting destination for leisurely evenings where quality ingredients, familiar Italian flavours and a welcoming atmosphere take centre stage.

Rather than focusing on formal dining, Tuscany celebrates the pleasure of sharing good food and conversation. From freshly prepared pasta and Italian favourites to carefully selected ingredients and comforting Mediterranean flavours, the restaurant brings the spirit of Italian hospitality to the shores of the Maldives.

The concept is centred on relaxed, unhurried dining, offering guests an opportunity to enjoy an intimate evening by the ocean. Guests staying at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef may enjoy one dining experience at Tuscany during their stay, while those wishing to return receive a 50% discount on food for subsequent visits.

The introduction of Tuscany was celebrated during the resort’s 28th anniversary programme with a special culinary residency by Chef Fatjon Goga, whose approach to contemporary Italian and Mediterranean cuisine reflects the restaurant’s inspiration. Born in Albania and shaped by his culinary career in Italy, Chef Goga has worked in acclaimed kitchens including Don Alfonso and Arnolfo. Since 2022, he has led Osteria Grande in Arezzo’s historic Piazza Grande, where Tuscan traditions, seasonal ingredients and refined techniques come together.

During the anniversary celebrations, guests were introduced to his culinary philosophy through a special dining programme, including a signature dinner, a hands-on pasta masterclass and an intimate culinary experience highlighting the stories and inspirations behind his cooking.

A New Chapter for Sun Siyam Vilu Reef

Together, YAYA Beach Club and Tuscany introduce two complementary experiences to Sun Siyam Vilu Reef. While YAYA brings a playful, social atmosphere to the island’s daytime offering, Tuscany invites guests to slow down and enjoy the pleasures of Italian dining in the evening.

The new venues follow the resort’s recent villa enhancements and form part of its continued evolution, bringing fresh experiences to the island while preserving the personalised service, natural surroundings and intimate atmosphere that have defined Vilu Reef since its opening in 1998.

As the first resort in the Sun Siyam portfolio, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef continues to build on its heritage, combining the warmth of Maldivian hospitality with new experiences that invite guests to discover a different rhythm of island life.

For more information, visit the Sun Siyam Vilu Reef website.

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Cinnamon Maldives offers up to 80% off stays in 11.11 booking promotion

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Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives has announced its 11.11 offer, available only to guests who book direct. Guests who book by 14th November 2026 receive up to 80% off the rate and choose three of four book direct benefits at their chosen resort, with stays valid until 30th November 2027. Stays of three nights or more also come with resort credits.

The offer spans all four of its Maldives resorts, each with its own character and its own set of book direct benefits. Whether guests are planning a holiday with children, a quiet escape for two, or a week spent mostly underwater, there is an island and a combination of experiences to match. From beach dinners to dolphin watching, guests pick the three benefits that suit their holiday best, so no two stays need look the same.

Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives

Just 20 minutes from Malé in the North Malé Atoll, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives is a lively tropical island where days move easily between the beach, the lagoon, and the reef. It is an easy choice for holidays with little ones, with short transfers and plenty to keep every age busy. Book direct guests can choose any three of a dinner set up on the sand under the stars, a spa treatment to unwind after a day in the sun, a visit to a nearby local island to see everyday Maldivian life up close, and a swim and snorkel session to meet the reef and its residents.

Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives

In the Vaavu Atoll, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives is made for slowing down. Warm white sand, clear water, and the steady sound of the waves set the pace, making it a natural fit for couples and travellers looking for a quieter stay. Book direct guests can choose any three of a beach dinner for two by the water, a spa treatment designed to help them switch off completely, a day of island hopping across the atoll, and a dolphin watching trip on the open sea.

Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives

An adults only island in the Meemu Atoll, Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives is where romance moves to the rhythm of the waves. With water villas set over the lagoon and long, unhurried days, it is a favourite for honeymoons, anniversaries, and couples who simply want time together. Book direct guests can choose any three of a sunset fishing trip as the sky turns gold, a day of island hopping, a bottle of bubbly to toast the occasion, and a kayaking experience across the calm lagoon.

Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon

In the North Ari Atoll, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon opens up a new world underwater. Its house reef sits just steps from the shore, so divers and snorkellers can slip into the water from the beach and be among the reef life within minutes, any time of day. Book direct guests can choose any three of a beach dinner after a day in the ocean, a Balinese massage to ease tired muscles, a sunset fishing trip, and a dolphin safari to spot pods in the wild.

For bookings and enquiries, visit cinnamonhotels.com and the offer is available only on direct bookings made by 14th November 2026.

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Bandos Maldives strengthens food safety and sustainability standards with dual recognition

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Bandos Maldives continues to strengthen its commitment to responsible hospitality, quality and excellence with Food Safety Management System complaint with Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) standards, and the achievement of its Green Globe Certification.

These accomplishments reflect the resort’s ongoing dedication to providing exceptional guest experiences while upholding high standards of food safety, environmental responsibility and sustainable operations.

The HACCP recognition reflects the resort’s dedication to maintaining high food safety and quality standards across its food and beverage operations, ensuring guests enjoy safe and quality dining experiences. It also recognises the collective efforts of the culinary, food and beverage, and stewarding teams in upholding these standards.

Complementing this commitment to quality, the resort’s Green Globe recertification marks another important milestone in its sustainability journey. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Maldives, Bandos Maldives recognises its responsibility to protect its island environment and the marine ecosystem that makes the destination so unique. With 1,330 solar panels generating 744.8 kWp of electricity and meeting approximately 30% of daily energy requirements, Bandos Maldives continues to invest in more sustainable operations. Through its desalination plants and refillable glass bottle initiative, the resort has also eliminated more than 250,000 single-use plastic water bottles annually. Marine conservation also remains another important focus.

Commenting on these achievements, General Manager Ismail Rasheed said: “We are delighted to achieve these important milestones, which reflect our team’s dedication to quality, guest wellbeing and environmental sustainability. While we are proud of our progress, we recognise that responsible hospitality is an ongoing journey. We remain committed to continuously improving our practices and protecting our island environment for future generations.”

Guided by its Island of Hospitality brand promise, Bandos Maldives believes that exceptional guest experiences go beyond warm service and comfortable accommodation. They also mean ensuring guest safety, maintaining quality and protecting the natural beauty of the island and its surrounding marine environment.

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