Featured
Soneva launches new ‘Conscious Experiences’ at Maldives resorts
Soneva is rolling out new experiences at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani in the Maldives.
These experiences centre around learning and delving deeper into Soneva’s philosophy and sustainable practices.
Guests can take part in marine conservation under the guidance of the resort Marine Biologist at Soneva Jani and learn how to track wildlife on the island at Soneva Fushi.
Similar experiences are available at Soneva Kiri in Thailand.
Soneva Fushi
Embark on an ocean adventure with Soneva Fushi’s Maldivian fisherman, Rocket, and his family to learn how to fish sustainably with the Fishing is a Family Matter experience. Rocket has been supplying fish to Soneva Fushi since it was in construction, he knows what the chefs need and knows where to find the fish.
After fishing, guests can have their catch of the day prepared for them back at the resort using Rocket’s wife’s marinade recipe.
Young Sonevians and their families can learn about the flora and fauna native to the island of Kunfunadhoo with the Wildlife Explorer experience.
A guide will lead the expedition along the island trails, offering tricks to spot wildlife, how to read animal tracks, the names of each plant and animal spotted in Dhivehi. At the end of the experience younger guests will earn a Wildlife Explorer badge at The Den.
For guests who want to learn more about Soneva’s Namoona Baa programme, the Namoona Island Visit takes them to the neighbouring island Maalhos with a member of the Soneva Namoona team.
The experience covers the history of Maalhos, as well as the recent Soneva Namoona activities on the island.
The visit begins with a tour of the sustainability initiatives and the island’s efforts to Reduce, Recycle and Inspire local communities, Maalhos’ Eco Centro, the former waste burning area and water bottling plant (Soneva Water). Finally, guests can enjoy refreshments at the home of a Soneva Host’s family, where they will also learn to weave with screw pine leaves, a tradition unique to Maalhos.
The Slow Life Journey gives guests a deep look into Soneva’s philosophy that places sustainability at its core with a tour of the Eco Centro and organic gardens.
See how Soneva Fushi makes the most out of the island’s coconuts, from composting to the making of coconut oil. Next, head to the gardens around Fresh in the Garden to learn about permaculture methods before picking ingredients to be used in a three-course lunch.
Soneva Jani
Guests who have a passion for turtles can add their names on the Turtle On Call register to receive notifications about sea turtle activity happening at Soneva Jani during their stay.
They can watch as mother turtles lay their eggs, experience the natural wonder of tiny hatchlings making their way to the ocean, or help usher turtles who have gotten stuck in the trees in the middle of the island back to the open waves.
The marine biologists at Soneva play an active role in marine conservation efforts, part of this work involves conducting surveys on the reef. With the Marine Conservation Expedition guests can join the resort’s marine biologist on a beach cleanup and help gather vital data by taking part in micro-plastic and coral bleaching surveys.
Ocean stewards can help rehabilitate coral reefs and coral nurseries at Soneva Jani with the Coral Planting experience.
After a short presentation guests will be taken out to a floating platform in the lagoon where they will tie the readily prepared coral fragments to the frames which are then lowered to the sandy bottom.
Every six months photos will be sent back to the guest to update them on the progress of their coral pieces that will be used as donor colonies for reef rehabilitation.
The Local Fishing with Jawa introduces guests to the two techniques used by Maldivian fishermen to catch their livelihoods.
Set sail for the spot of the day in a traditional wooden dhoni and choose to learn either bottom line fishing or trawling. At the end of the experience, the chefs at Soneva Jani will prepare the catch of the day for dinner.
On the Garden to Table experience guests will be taken through the organic gardens, picking, tasting and learning along the way under the guidance of the gardener or Horticulturist. Learn the secrets of having a green thumb and how to harvest different ingredients, as well as the option to plant a tree sapling or vegetable in the garden.
The chef will then prepare a three-course lunch using the freshly picked ingredients.
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.
Featured
Maldives Madridistas: Patina Maldives, Fari Islands Nets Exclusive Football Camp Partnership with the Real Madrid Foundation
Younger guests at Patina Maldives, Fari Islands can embrace new patterns of play this summer at an exclusive, Maldives-first Real Madrid Foundation football camp. From 4 July – 12 August, a youth coach will lead a comprehensive Real Madrid Foundation programme of daily soccer sessions for ages 5-9yrs, 10-14yrs, and 15-17yrs. The coach will be joined by an elite player ambassador from UEFA’s all-time no. 1 ranked football club toward the end of the programme.
This summer’s inaugural Patina Maldives x Real Madrid CF Foundation football camp is the first edition in an ongoing partnership, with additional future football camp dates to be confirmed. Led by a licensed Real Madrid Foundation coach, sessions will focus on developing each participant both individually and as part of the group, in order to ‘Play The Real Way’ – the training methodology that combines play, as well as sports values.
Sessions will take place on a new, purpose-built 6 a side astroturf pitch located near the Fari Marina Village at Patina Maldives.
All participants will receive an official camp football camp shirt, shorts, socks, drawstring bag, sweatbands, and cap; while those completing a minimum of four days’ coaching will also be presented with a Real Madrid Foundation participation certificate.
Real Madrid Foundation football clinics at Patina Maldives, Fari Islands are priced at USD195++ per child per session for guests of the resort. Bookings are also open to guests from neighbouring resorts, from USD250++ per child per session.
Rates at Patina Maldives, Fari Islands start from USD2,054 (approx. GBP1,620) per night based on two adults sharing a One Bedroom Pool Villa including daily breakfast, complimentary Guest Benefits, tax, and service. Terms and conditions apply.
For more information and reservations, please visit https://patinahotels.com/maldives or contact reservations.maldives@patinahotels.com. For more information on Pathways, please see here.
Experience unique and enriching getaways at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, as the luxury resort unveils exciting benefits for family getaway packages launching this season. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in the ethereal charm of the Maldives.
Nestled in the pristine Raa Atoll, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives seamlessly blends eco-friendly architecture with contemporary sophistication, complemented by the untouched, rugged beauty of the Raa Atoll. Situated amidst miles of untouched marine life, Alila Kothaifaru invites guests to reconnect with nature in the most extraordinary ways. With spacious villas and private pools, guests can truly experience the essence of a getaway where luxury and adventure harmoniously coexist.
Surrounded by azure skies and the turquoise waters of the Raa Atoll, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives offers an idyllic setting for a family escape during the Easter break. Here, guests can unwind in luxurious, nature-immersed surroundings, embark on exciting adventures together, and indulge in unforgettable wellness and culinary experiences.
During Easter weekend, Play Alila will delight young guests with a diverse range of festive island-inspired activities, including Easter egg decorating, arts and crafts, face painting, and more. For those seeking relaxation, Spa Alila offers enticing packages for parents and children to enjoy quality bonding time.
For the adventurous souls, do not miss the chance to join our Sparkling Underwater Egg Hunt. Hidden throughout one of our nearby dive sites, these eggs hold a special surprise. The lucky diver who discovers the egg with a unique mark will win an exclusive clutch made of Swarovski crystal valued at EUR 1,800!
Embark on an Easter journey to remember at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives. Explore all of the Easter events and activities at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives here
Family Getaway Package
- Booking Period: Until 30 October 2024
- Stay Period: Until 25 December 2024
Experience a family holiday rich with memorable moments. From nature walks to energetic beach activities, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives’ offerings extend to the whole family. Indulge in a host of fun adventures together, or relax while your children participate in creative indoor and outdoor activities. Enjoy special family welcome amenities upon arrival, return seaplane transfers, daily full-board meals, and a special offer on wellness treatments. Experience the beauty of our island while creating lasting memories to be treasured!
Stay with us during the Easter period from 25-31 March 2024 and be treated to a wide range of festive island inspired activities such as Easter egg decorating, arts and crafts, egg hunting around the island and underwater, wellness offering, and many more!
For more information and reservations, please contact kothaifaru@alilahotels.com or visit alilahotels.com
Featured
Love’s Oasis: Siyam World Invites Couples To Celebrate And Embrace Romance On White Valentines’ Day
Romance never ends, get ready to swoon, Siyam World is pulling out all the stops to make this White Valentine’s Day one for the books. Nestled in the heart of the Maldives, Siyam World invites couples to indulge in a whirlwind of romance and adventure on March 14th, 2024.
Internationally acclaimed DJ Youna will headline the evening’s entertainment, enchanting guests with her signature blend of melodic techno and progressive house music. Against the backdrop of the Maldivian night sky, guests can dance under the stars and create cherished memories with their loved ones. DJ Youna, the rising star of melodic techno and progressive house, is set to serenade you and your beloved under the starlit skies of Siyam World.
YOUNA, an emerging DJ/Producer specializing in melodic techno and progressive house, hails originally from South Korea. Her musical trajectory took an unforeseen turn upon her relocation to Dubai, where she developed a profound affinity for house music—a genre less prevalent in the Asian music landscape. Dedication to refining her craft led YOUNA to cultivate a distinctive sound, skilfully merging emotive melodies with the infectious energy of her compositions.
Despite embarking on her production and DJing journey in 2022, YOUNA has swiftly ascended to prominence on the global music scene. Her debut single, ‘Self-Doubt,’ ascended to the top 14 in progressive house and secured the 4th position on Beatport’s hype chart. YOUNA’s music, characterized by potent beats and evocative soundscapes, transcends cultural boundaries, dismantling barriers and creating a harmonious fusion on the international stage. Get ready to dance the night away and create memories that will last a lifetime with DJ YOUNA
Siyam World has also curated a line-up of experiences that will make your heart skip a beat. Dive into the culinary wonders of the Maldives with our Maldivian Culinary Workshop at Kaage, where you will learn the secrets of local cuisine from our talented chefs.
Treat your special someone to a Destination Dinner or a Special Romantic Dinner, complete with a romantic movie screening to set the mood. And for the ultimate indulgence, why not enjoy a Wine Cellar Dinner? Gift your loved one with chocolates and flowers made available for this special day. Sip on mimosas and savor delicious bites while soaking in the breath-taking views of Siyam World.
Mark your calendars, lovebirds, because White Valentine’s Day at Siyam World is going to be one for the books! Book your romantic getaway now and get ready to fall in love all over again.
For more information, visit Siyam World or follow on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok or YouTube. For booking enquiries email: stay@siyamworld.com.
-
News1 week agoGreen Globe Recertification for VARU by Atmosphere
-
News1 week agoGuinness world record holder Nathaniel Alapide creates sand art drawing at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi
-
News1 week agoRenowned Integrative Movement Therapist Mins Teo to lead exclusive wellness residency at Patina Maldives
-
Awards1 week agoMaldives wins in 2 categories at Marine Diving Awards in Japan
-
Awards1 week agoSO/ Maldives nominated for Condé Nast Traveler’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards
-
Drink1 week agoSavouring paradise: Taste of Mediterranean cuisine at Kuramathi’s Palm
-
News7 days agoFun amplified: Hard Rock Hotel Maldives unveils Summer Camp-Cation 4.0
-
News1 week agoSoneva Secret whispers: Bespoke luxury unveiled in Haa Dhaalu Atoll