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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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Kuda Villingili Maldives marks third consecutive Green Globe Certification

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Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, one of the luxury resorts in the Maldives, is celebrating its third consecutive Green Globe Certification, marking another milestone in its long-term commitment to responsible hospitality. Beyond certification, the achievement reflects an approach to sustainability that extends across the resort’s operations, natural environment and surrounding community.

Having successfully completed its annual sustainability audit, Kuda Villingili continues to meet internationally recognised standards across environmental, social, cultural and economic criteria. Across the island, this commitment takes shape through practical measures designed to reduce the resort’s environmental footprint while preserving the natural beauty of the Maldives for generations to come.

Solar panels within the team members’ village reduce energy consumption by approximately 40%, while advanced composting systems transform food waste into nutrient-rich compost used across the island’s landscape. A dedicated recycling centre processes glass for reuse, complemented by wider initiatives to incorporate recycled materials and biodegradable products, while eliminating single-use plastics across the island.

Yet Kuda Villingili’s approach extends beyond its operations. At the heart of its sustainability philosophy is the belief that lasting impact comes from creating a deeper connection between people, place and purpose.

Kuda Villingili also hosts a monthly Coral Planting Experience in collaboration with MSTS, its dive and watersports team, as part of the resort’s ongoing contribution to marine conservation. The initiative brings together guests and ambassadors to learn more about the Maldives’ delicate marine ecosystem and take part in coral restoration efforts.

Participants are introduced to the importance of healthy coral reefs, their role in supporting marine biodiversity and the coral restoration process before taking part in planting coral fragments.

Young travellers are also encouraged to participate, transforming marine conservation into an interactive learning experience and nurturing an appreciation for the ocean from an early age. By bringing guests, children and ambassadors together, the initiative reflects Kuda Villingili’s belief that environmental awareness becomes more meaningful when it is experienced first-hand.

This commitment to creating a positive impact extends beyond the natural environment, with community wellbeing forming an equally important part of Kuda Villingili’s approach to responsible hospitality. The resort recently hosted its annual Blood Donation Drive in partnership with Maldivian Blood Services under the Ministry of Health. A total of 64 ambassadors registered to participate, contributing to efforts to strengthen the nation’s blood supply and support patients requiring lifesaving transfusions across theMaldives.

The initiative forms part of the resort’s wider approach to sustainability, reflecting its belief that meaningful change extends from protecting the environment to supporting the wellbeing of the communities around it.

“Receiving Green Globe Certification for the third consecutive year is a proud milestone for our team and reflects our continued commitment to responsible hospitality,” said Amjad Thaufeeg, Commercial Director of Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives. “At Kuda Villingili, we believe true luxury extends beyond exceptional experiences—it is about creating a positive impact on our environment, our community, and future generations. Sustainability remains at the heart of everything we do, and we will continue to evolve our practices while delivering unforgettable experiences for our guests.”

From reducing its environmental footprint to nurturing ocean stewardship and supporting community wellbeing, Kuda Villingili continues to demonstrate that sustainability is not defined by a single initiative or certification. It is an ongoing responsibility woven into how the resort operates, how it connects guests with the destination and how it contributes to the Maldives beyond its shores.

As Kuda Villingili enters its third year as a Green Globe Certified resort, that commitment continues to evolve—ensuring that the beauty guests experience today can be shared for generations to come.

For more information about Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, please visit www.kudavillingili.com.

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The Ritz-Carlton pairs Singapore and Maldives for two-destination Asian escape

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The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore and The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands come together to inspire a multi-destination journey pairing the vibrant energy of Singapore with the natural beauty and tranquility of the Maldives, ideal for those looking to experience two distinct sides of Asia in unparalleled luxury. Just approximately four hours apart, with two daily nonstop flights operated by Singapore Airlines, one of the world’s leading airlines, the two destinations offer a seamless experience from Singapore’s vibrant cultural and culinary scene to the endless blue horizons and serenity of the Maldives.

Award-winning dining and spa experiences await across both destinations, brought together through art, design, and architecture, and elevated by the exceptional savoir-faire of The Ritz-Carlton Ladies and Gentlemen.

Two Destinations, One Legendary Ritz-Carlton Experience

While distinctly rooted in their respective destinations, both properties share the unmistakable spirit of The Ritz-Carlton. At the heart of each experience are the Ladies and Gentlemen, whose intuitive and personalised service transforms every stay into something meaningful.

Whether arriving in the heart of Singapore or stepping onto a private Maldivian island, guests are welcomed with the same sense of belonging; the comfort of feeling at home while discovering somewhere entirely new. This connection extends to the dining experience at Summer Pavilion, where guests can savour exceptional Cantonese cuisine at the Michelin-starred Marina Bay restaurant, before discovering new flavours at its island counterpart, the Forbes Four-Star Summer Pavilion, set over the Maldivian waters in an intimate lantern-lit ambiance. Thoughtful experiences, exceptional dining, distinctive design, and genuine care create a natural thread between both destinations, allowing the journey to continue seamlessly from city to island.

The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore: A Canvas of Views

The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore is renowned for its prime Marina Bay location, offering spectacular panoramic views of the city’s most iconic landmarks, from the Singapore Flyer to the Formula 1 street circuit and the Kallang cityscape. Guided by the principles of Feng Shui, the property’s architecture and interiors are composed to balance energy and enliven the senses. This philosophy is expressed in the iconic octagonal bathroom windows featured in every guest room, including the signature Club Premier Suite, Club Deluxe Suite and Millenia Suites, framing panoramic views of the Singapore skyline while alluding to the auspicious number eight, best experienced during the In-room Butler Drawn Bath.

Within its walls, the property is home to one of the largest contemporary art collections in Southeast Asia, with over 4,200 artworks featuring renowned artists including David Hockney, Andy Warhol, Dale Chihuly, Frank Stella and Zhu Wei, of which 90% specially commissioned for the hotel. Guests are invited to explore selected pieces through the hotel’s Augmented Reality Art Tour, bringing each work to life in an entirely new dimension.

That same spirit of discovery extends to the table, where The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore stands as a culinary destination in its own right. General Manager Peter Mainguy shares: “Food is one of the most authentic ways to experience Singapore’s culture, history and diversity. We are passionate about connecting guests with the destination through meaningful culinary experiences. Through seven immersive conservatory kitchens at Colony, savour a true taste of Singapore, celebrating the diverse flavours and culinary traditions that define the nation. At Summer Pavilion, One Michelin Star refined Cantonese cuisine offers an intimate dining experience, rooted in culinary craftsmanship and heritage. Republic offers a sixties-inspired cocktail experience, while The Ritz Lounge is a haven for contemporary all-day dining. Every dining experience offers an opportunity to discover and celebrate the multicultural spirit that defines Singapore.”

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands: Embrace the Circle of Island Life

At The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, guests are invited to embrace the natural rhythm of island life. Designed by the late Kerry Hill, the resort’s distinctive circular architecture sits in harmony with the ocean and surrounding landscape, with fluid indoor-outdoor spaces that draw the eye toward endless horizons of blue. From private overwater and beach pool villas to expansive premium residences and The Ritz-Carlton Estate, the resort offers a contemporary expression of Maldivian island living, shaped by design, nature, and a profound sense of place.

This connection with the destination extends throughout the guest experience. The award-winning The Ritz-Carlton Spa, set over the lagoon, offers a sanctuary inspired by the natural elements and ancient principles of Yin and Yang, while the resort’s expert Naturalists invite guests to discover and contribute to the preservation of the surrounding ecosystem. Younger guests embark on their own island adventures at Ritz Kids, while a curated calendar of visiting chefs, artists, wellness practitioners, and other Masters of Crafts brings new opportunities for discovery throughout the year.

Dining unfolds across seven distinctive restaurants and bars, from relaxed Mediterranean moments at Beach Shack and Japanese flavours at IWAU to contemporary Cantonese cuisine at the Forbes Four-Star Summer Pavilion, suspended above the lagoon. Throughout the stay, each guest is accompanied by a dedicated Aris Meeha, or island butler, whose intuitive and personalised service allows days to unfold effortlessly and at an unhurried pace.

“There is something truly special about a journey that connects the pulse of Singapore with the serenity of the Maldives,” says Oscar Postma, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. “Here, Kerry Hill’s circular architecture invites guests to slow down and embrace island life at its own unhurried pace, a philosophy that feels like a natural counterpoint to the vibrant energy of a Singapore stay. Having called Singapore home twice, spanning a total of 15 years – including as part of the leadership team at The

Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore, and again before joining our Maldives resort 18 months ago – I’ve experienced firsthand how these two destinations, though worlds apart, share the same soul of genuine hospitality. Both have captured my heart in their own distinctive way.”

From Artful City Lights to Elevated Island Living

Together, The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore and The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands invite guests to embrace two distinct rhythms in one remarkable journey: feel energised by the vibrant pulse of a global city, surrounded by art and dazzling lights, before slowing down to the gentle rhythm of the ocean within an architectural masterpiece on a private Maldivian island.

Connected by more than a flight, the two stays are united by a shared approach to hospitality, creating a journey where guests can discover something entirely different at each destination while always feeling unmistakably at home.

For more information, visit ritzcarlton.com/Singapore and ritzcarlton.com/Maldives

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Niva Kurumba sets stage for ‘A Night at the Circus’ this New Year’s Eve

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Niva Kurumba has announced its festive season programme for 2026–2027, a curated collection of experiences running from 21 December to 7 January. The programme unfolds in two chapters: a classic tropical Christmas from 21 to 25 December, followed by a New Year at the Circus from 26 December to 6 January, with celebrations positioning the iconic resort as a destination for togetherness, celebration, and discovery.

An idyllic tropical Christmas

The season opens with the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, its glow accompanied by festive carols. Festive dining anchors the celebrations. The Christmas Eve Gala Dinner and Christmas Day Lunch at Vihamaana bring lavish buffets, live cooking stations, and music, while sunset rituals at Kandu Bar mark each evening by the water’s edge. Throughout the season guests may expect themed sundowners – from a Sunset Carnival to Blush Sunset Hour and Flames of the Island – each layered with music, handcrafted cocktails, and a fun shoreline atmosphere.

A sense of wonder

After Christmas, the island leans into wonder. Days are shaped by barefoot celebrations and shoreline gatherings – a Beach Fiesta with music and DJ beats, a Maldivian Mas Race fishing competition, Island Illusion magic show, a spectacular fire performance, and a showstopping fashion show by the pool. The programme builds towards a New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner themed ‘A Night at the Circus’, where fire performers and aerial artists set the scene before fireworks illuminate the Maldivian sky at midnight – a farewell to 2026 and a joyful welcome to 2027.

The underwater world unfolds in breathtaking colour and life

Guests can slip into warm, crystalline waters for guided snorkelling excursions with stingrays and turtles to gentle nurse sharks. Experienced guides lead voyages across coral gardens and breathtaking reefs, revealing the archipelago’s underwater beauty. On Christmas Day a secluded sandbank offers an invitation to swim in the clear water and experience the quiet beauty of the Maldives.

A season for play

Little moments of magic are created for the island’s youngest guests with a world designed just for them, offering a season of playful days and festive fun. Hands-on activities include gingerbread decorating, snowflake making, sand art, seashell crafts, and clown crown making. Special events include a sand snowman competition on the beach, a splash party by the pool, and a Grand Show Stopper Fashion Show. The spirit of the holidays continues with Christmas wreath making and a search for Santa across the sea, while a Circus Cruise brings new year adventure.

For those seeking calm

A quiet invitation to slow down. This festive season, LIME Wellbeing introduces a collection of restorative experiences designed to reset and reconnect. Highlights include the Romantic Escape for two, the family-focused Together Treasure, and Serenity Under the Stars – an alfresco couple’s massage where warm coconut oil is massaged into the skin using cowrie shells.

A Season of Light awaits. The full programme and festive season special offer are available for those ready to plan their escape at Festive Season | Niva Kurumba Maldives.

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