Family
Six Senses Laamu receives full marks for home-based Junior Marine Biology Programme
After 10 weeks of exploring the oceans around Six Senses Laamu, the first series of the online Junior Marine Biology programme has made a satisfying splash.
What’s more, it is not too late to dive in, as all classes were recorded, which means they can be taken any time, and in any order.
The online Junior Marine Biology programme is a series of free web-based classes, made up of short informative videos, activities to do at home and one-on-one feedback by the team of 10 marine biologists at the Maldives Underwater Initiative (MUI).
Each class explored a different topic, from how the islands of the Maldives are formed (parrotfish poop in case you were wondering) to the importance of corals, seagrass meadows, mangroves and marine protected areas.
The atoll’s gentle giants took their turn in the spotlight, including live footage of the season’s first turtle hatchlings emerging from their nest on April 26, plus a special encounter with manta rays in virtual reality.
The programme also introduced what it means to be a scientist and how to share science, culminating in a session on how to make a stop motion conservation movie, which received some amazing animations from the children taking part.
Due to the various lockdown measures in place, the Six Senses team were displaced all over the world, from Six Senses Laamu to Abu Dhabi, Bangkok, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, yet their collective passion for the project resulted in high-caliber, rich and varied course content, compiled in a matter of days for each class.
Even more remarkable was the enthusiasm, creativity and dedication of the children. Their heartwarming final video compilation of jokes and reasons why they love marine biology brought a collective tear … and hope that these budding conservationists will go on to fight for the future of our blue planet.
Six Senses Laamu’s Marketing Communications Manager Leanna Crowley coordinated the programme with meticulous care and attention. Her efforts have been rewarded with over 10,000 page views and 300 pieces of homework from more than 80 children in 20 countries (and counting), along with many messages and videos.
Each submission was individually marked and handed back by the Maldives Underwater Initiative specialist hosting the session, with thanks in particular to Nicole Pelletier from the Manta Trust, Jo Goodfellow from the Olive Ridley Project, and Vivienne Evans and Ali Shareef from the Blue Marine Foundation.
“Receiving the homework, videos and stories of the adventures our Junior Marine Biologists have gone on has been the highlight of our lockdown,” Marteyne van Well, general manager at Six Senses Laamu, was quoted in a statement, as saying.
“To know that we could provide education and inspiration despite the ongoing global restrictions shows the dedication of our Maldives Underwater Initiative team towards achieving our vision of creating a global community of marine stewards. I am so proud of the team and of this community of little marine biologists who I hope to meet in person one day.”
Lead presenter and Guest Education Coordinator Lawrence Menz and co-presenter and Head Marine Biologist and Research Coordinator Philippa Roa proved an instant hit for their wonderful chemistry, fun bloopers and terrible jokes.
Although the structure, by necessity, was different to what children might enjoy on vacation in the Maldives, the objective was the same, aiming to help foster an understanding of marine biology and see first-hand the importance of marine conservation.
It certainly came as a relief to parents to aid their home schooling efforts and their kind words were very well received by the MUI team:
“Firstly, a HUGE thank you for putting together this program. My son has been loving it! It is definitely making lockdown easier and it is fun to dream of travel and the sea. We truly hope that one day we will be able to visit Six Senses in person.”
“My son has spent many happy hours with your online marine biology course. Thank you for your spectacular effort. You have added goodness, fun and happiness to very trying times.”
“You have produced a world-class series of online lessons for our young people. My boy follows your course independently and with bright, sparkling eyes and a positive attitude. When I watch your videos or print out your sheets I am awed by the high standard. I can only imagine the very hard work, coordination and planning that has gone into this course – and to all the online material Six Senses has offered throughout this awful time.”
“I just wanted to send a short note to thank you for your Junior Marine Biology online course that your team offered the past 10 weeks. We used it to supplement her regular, at-home classroom work, during this Covid time. really, really enjoyed the online course. It is her dream to become a Junior Marine Biologist and your team truly inspired her.”
“We are so sad that your amazing course is over, it really has been such a fantastic experience for us. To see your beautiful island and your stunning wildlife and learn so much along the way has been very special. It’s been a great way for me to encourage all kinds of home-learning from writing to maths without the sulking we get when it’s time for school work… We enjoyed seeing the fellow graduates around the world too.”
Lawrence and the team are now working towards re-crafting the Junior Marine Biology programme offered at the resort. Guiding these adjustments is the most important feedback of all, the suggestions provided by the graduates of Junior Marine Biology online who are hoping to come explore Laamu’s marine life in person and put to use all the skills they have learnt.
Although the physical Junior Marine Biology programme will take off again with the opening of Six Senses Laamu, the online resources will remain available via a dedicated website, so that families can still start the programme over the summer vacation.
MUI is an initiative by Six Senses Laamu in partnership with three NGOs: Blue Marine Foundation, the Manta Trust and the Olive Ridley Project. The mission is to lead the tourism industry in the Maldives by undertaking meaningful marine conservation focused around the three pillars of research, education and community.
One of the team’s many pioneering projects includes an underwater contactless ultrasound scanner for Laamu’s resident population of pregnant manta rays in order to study gestation and embryonic development and guide conservation strategies.
Six Senses Laamu is the first and one of the only two resorts in the pristine Laamu atoll. Most of the villas and facilities are built overwater, however beach villas and on-land dining are an option. All villas offer a sense of privacy and seclusion, with an amazing view to the ocean and Maldivian nature.
Six Senses Laamu offers a wide range of dining options, with cuisines from around the world, an ice cream parlour, an overwater wine cellar and a signature Chill Bar. Many activities, excursions and options are available for everyone to enjoy, both overwater and underwater, in addition to the Six Senses Spa.
Six Senses Laamu hosts one of the largest teams of marine biologists in the Maldives, the MUI. Staff from Six Senses Laamu and its three partner NGOs: Manta Trust, Blue Marine Foundation and Olive Ridley Project work together under the banner of MUI and seek to lead the tourism industry in the Maldives with meaningful marine conservation efforts based on research, education and community outreach.
This Easter, elevate your holiday with a glamorous escape to the sun-kissed shores of SO/ Maldives. Nestled like a private fashion-forward sanctuary in the ethereal Emboodhoo Lagoon, just a chic 15-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport, this avant-garde island retreat sets the stage for a dazzling celebration of style, indulgence, and adventure.
With an air of effortless sophistication, SO/ Maldives invites you to embrace the spirit of Easter in the most fashionable way; where gourmet indulgence, holistic wellness, and bespoke island experiences come together in a setting as breathtaking as a runway debut.
Easter at SO/ Maldives is an affair of refined taste, with exquisite dining experiences curated for the most discerning palates. Step into a world of haute cuisine with the Crustacean & Wine Pairing Set Dinner at The Citronelle Club, where a Master Sommelier orchestrates an exquisite fusion of ocean-fresh seafood and fine vintages. As the night unfolds, Lazuli unveils a Master Wine Menu, where a handpicked selection of wines is savored against the backdrop of chillout DJ beats and the Maldivian starlit sky.
For a sunset soirée, sip on signature cocktails at Pavilion Bar’s Sunset Hour, before indulging in a three-course beachfront dinner at Lazuli Beach, where culinary artistry meets seaside elegance. The Easter revelry culminates with the Easter Extravaganza Beach BBQ at Citronelle, a lavish beachfront affair complete with gourmet delights and live music by the Rishvan Imon Duo; an evening of pure island glamour.
For those seeking serene indulgence, SO/ SPA Easter Wellness Camp unveils an oasis of holistic renewal. Chakra Balancing, Walking Meditation, and Sound Meditation create the perfect harmony between mind, body, and soul, ensuring that guests emerge refreshed and radiant. Exclusive spa offerings provide a tailored touch of luxury, with overwater and beachfront sanctuaries designed for the ultimate escape into tranquility.
Easter at SO/ Maldives isn’t just about indulgence; it’s also about art, adventure, and meaningful connections. Families can revel in the Easter Family Egg Hunt & Games at Lazuli Beach Club, while creative souls embrace island artistry with workshops like Sip and Clay, Jewelry Making, and Palm Leaf Basket Weaving; a nod to the craftsmanship and heritage of the Maldives.
For the little trendsetters, The Nest transforms into a playground of Easter-themed magic, with bunny hop games, storytelling sessions, egg-painting workshops, and even a whimsical Easter puppet show; ensuring young guests enjoy an experience as enchanting as a fairytale.
For those who crave the thrill of the extraordinary, SO/ Maldives invites you to immerse yourself in the glamorous side of adventure. Dive into the mesmerizing depths of the Indian Ocean with snorkeling and diving excursions, or glide across its turquoise expanse with exhilarating activities like jet skiing, paddleboarding, and parasailing. Set sail on a sunset dolphin-watching cruise, where golden-hour hues and playful marine life create a cinematic experience that rivals the most breathtaking of fashion campaigns.
Whether celebrating with family, friends, or a special someone, Easter at SO/ Maldives promises a fusion of couture luxury, barefoot elegance, and unforgettable moments. With its exclusive island setting, curated experiences, and signature SO/ flair, this Maldivian paradise is the ultimate destination for an Easter celebration that is effortlessly stylish, indulgently chic, and truly extraordinary.
For more information or to book your perfect Eid getaway, please visit SO-Maldives.com or write to SO.Maldives.Reservations@so-hotels.com.
Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives is bringing a fresh twist to Easter celebrations with a creative LEGO-themed experience from April 20th to 25th, promising an unforgettable holiday for guests of all ages. The celebration features a vibrant blend of creativity, family adventure, and entertainment across the resort’s pristine beaches and venues including special performances by multi-awarded magician Yollin Lee and DJ Ironik, an internationally acclaimed British DJ and rapper
To enhance the experience even further, Sun Siyam Olhuveli presents a sensational lineup of entertainment. International champion magician Yollin Lee, celebrated for his award-winning sleight-of-hand performances, will dazzle audiences with his mesmerizing illusions. Additionally, the UK’s renowned DJ, producer, and rapper Ironik—who played a pivotal role in shaping British urban music—will bring his signature beats to the resort, ensuring an unforgettable evening.
The festivities kick off with an Easter egg hunt featuring LEGO-themed eggs at Sunrise Beach, followed by engaging LEGO workshops where families can unleash their creativity. As the sun sets, an evening show at Lagoon Bar Deck will bring music, dance, and dazzling lights to mark the grand opening. Throughout the celebration, guests can enjoy a variety of interactive activities. The Mosaic Challenge will have participants constructing a giant LEGO masterpiece, while little ones can enjoy the classic Egg Rolling competition at Milano Beach. Easter brunch at Island Pizza and an exclusive Easter BBQ at Water Sports Beach will add culinary delights, complemented by a Family Sandcastle Competition.
From egg painting and a LEGO hunt to Easter cookie decorating, the festivities continue to spark joy. The Egg Spoon Race across multiple beach locations, alongside a special Easter cocktail, will bring the celebration to a memorable close.
For those seeking enhanced experience, exclusive promotions such as the Family Fun Holiday package, Easter BBQ, and Water Sports Beach Carnival will be available at an additional cost. Families can also take advantage of 30% off all kids’ activities, making it the perfect time for a sun-soaked, adventure-packed holiday.
This Easter, indulge in a luxurious escape! Book a grand villa by April 20, 2025, for stays until December 23, 2025, and unlock exclusive perks—50% off à la carte dining, airport transfers, and a complimentary couple’s massage with a four-night stay. Extend to five nights in a pool villa and enjoy free round-trip transfers. Plus, enjoy irresistible discounts on room upgrades, water sports, and a romantic diving experience.
To take advantage of this offer, visit https://www.sunsiyam.com/sun-siyam-olhuveli/offers/easter-offer/.
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef invites guests to join an eco-friendly Easter extravaganza filled with family-friendly activities, special offers, and unforgettable experiences. Running from April 16th to 20th, 2025 it’s the ultimate destination for creating lasting memories with loved ones.
Get ready for an action-packed and eco-friendly Easter at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef! From Easter Egg Hunts to Bunny Basket Making and Easter Mini Olympics, we’ve packed the holidays with fun for the whole family. But this year, we’re taking a greener approach to our festivities. Our eco-friendly theme focuses on reducing waste and using sustainable materials throughout the event.
For instance, when dyeing Easter eggs, we’re opting for natural ingredients like spinach for green, beetroot for red, red cabbage for blue or purple, and turmeric for yellow. Additionally, instead of using plastic decorations, we’re choosing reusable wooden or fabric eggs to minimize environmental impact.
Our SuperLEDShow, featuring internationally acclaimed performers Dennis Kiss and Szulita Szekrényes, will dazzle you with mind-blowing light displays and acrobatics on April 19th and 20th—all part of our commitment to bringing awe-inspiring entertainment in an eco-conscious way.
To top off the celebration, enjoy a Pool Party and a special Easter Beach BBQ, with sustainability at the heart of every detail. Join us for a fun-filled Easter that celebrates not just family, but also our beautiful planet. Sun Siyam Vilu Reef offers a perfect balance of fun, relaxation, and sustainability, ensuring your Easter getaway is unforgettable.
Easter Offer: Celebrate Easter at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef with an exclusive offer including up to 40% off accommodation, free roundtrip seaplane transfers for two with a minimum 7-night stay, a Lucky Dolphin Cruise, and a gourmet welcome platter with champagne upon arrival. Enjoy additional perks like a room upgrade (subject to availability), free snorkeling equipment, kayaking, and a Veranda breakfast during your stay. Plus, kids under 12 stay and eat for free. Book now to elevate your Easter getaway with unforgettable experiences at this stunning eco-friendly resort. Offer valid for bookings made from 16 February to 20 April 2025, for stays until 23 December 2025.
To take advantage of this offer, visit https://www.sunsiyam.com/sun-siyam-vilu-reef/offers/easter-offer/.
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