Family
Soneva unveils summer camp, more activities for half term break family holidays
Soneva has paved the way for family-friendly getaways where there is always something going on to keep children and teenagers curious and entertained.
Soneva is now gearing up for an impressive line-up of activities for August and the October half term periods at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani in the Maldives, and at Soneva Kiri in Thailand. This includes a Summer Camp at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani in the Maldives.
Whether it’s a private water slide into a sparkling lagoon, complimentary chocolate and ice cream rooms, cultural trips to local communities or one-on-one tutoring sessions, Soneva makes sure no one is ever bored.
Soneva is known for its resorts’ children’s clubs, which are all called The Den. Every day there are countless activities to take part in, from arts and crafts, recycling, cooking classes and more.
The Den teams organise experiences for children and teenagers around the resort, from joining the marine biologist for a guided snorkelling session to learning about the organic gardens with the resort gardeners.
Tours of the Eco Centro waste management centres allow Soneva’s young guests to learn about sustainability practices and what they can do to give back to the environment and local communities.
Soneva Fushi’s Den is a sprawling playground for the imagination. Children can explore a pirate ship, splash in two swimming pools, go down the spiralling red water slide, play in the Lego and Duplo room, have fun in the dress-up and makeup area, and watch movies in the cinema. There is also a library, learning area, and music room filled with instruments, and more.
During family time, parents can head over to The Den with their little ones to enjoy their very own shallow pool. The Den also has a separate lounge area dedicated to teenagers.
At Soneva Jani, The Den is not just in The Gathering; it also includes the whole island itself. Creative and learning-inspired activities happen all day long, while water sports around the lagoon include kayaking, paddle-boarding, snorkelling, sailing and so much more.
There are plans to build a much larger children’s club on the main island of Soneva Jani in the near future.
In keeping with Soneva’s philosophy that fostering curiosity and continued learning are crucial to living a fulfilled life, all activities and experiences for young Sonevians are geared towards stimulating their minds and imaginations.
Soneva frequently partners with Oppidan Education, a UK-based mentoring programme, to host complimentary group workshops and private one-on-one sessions for an additional charge during half term holidays.
Soneva Fushi – Summer Camp
This year, Summer Camps will be taking place in August, one for children aged 7 to 11, and another for teenagers aged 12 to 17. Each lasts two weeks and has been designed to encourage participants to disconnect from their daily life and learn to live in the moment.
Activities fall under the following categories: Sustainable, Local, Organic, Wellness, Learning, Inspiring, Fun, Experiences.
Camp Starter Packs will be given to each participant, containing: a Soneva Fushi journal, wooden pen, a tote bag, a cap, and a Soneva Fushi metal water bottle.
At the end of each day, they will earn a different Ranger badge.
Children’s activities include: making worm farms, scavenger hunts, Maldivian snack cooking classes, pool parties, surfing lessons, repair and DIY workshops, snorkelling with the marine biologist, movie nights, photography and videography challenges, gardening and compost making, and an Eco Warriors Waste Fashion Show, among others.
Teenagers’ activities include: An educational yacht tour aboard Soneva in Aqua, zero waste workshops, local culture trips to neighbouring islands, yoga, face mask class, pool party, campfire gatherings with s’mores, surfing lessons, snorkelling with manta rays, gardening and permaculture, a disco party, and sailing.
Soneva Fushi – August Calendar
Over the course of August there are a number of exciting and stimulating events, experiences and activities available for Soneva’s younger guests.
Other than the daily activities at The Den, Soneva Fushi has an extensive calendar of experiences, dining events and more; a number of them designed specifically with Soneva’s younger guests in mind.
Glassblowing classes at the Soneva Art & Glass Studio introduce this ancient art form to guests of all ages, while Soneva’s Junior Master Chef cooking competition is an opportunity for young chefs to shine.
Tour the water bottling plant on the island to see how the team filters and mineralises Soneva Water, before tasting the different Soneva waters on offer.
For those who love a good adventure, children can make their own treasure maps with clues, before heading off into the island to hunt for buried treasure.
Water sports like paddle boarding, sailing and kayaking are always available at the Water Sports Champa, while pool parties at The Den provide the perfect opportunity to get to know the other children on the island.
The Island Rangers series of experiences includes the Flora and Fauna Safari, Movie Challenge, and Splash and Sailing. These will appeal to the wildlife lovers and aspiring conservationists, the budding movie or documentary film makers, and the lovers of wind and waves.
Soneva Fushi – October Calendar
Throughout the month, children and teens can get to know the island’s critters and wildlife with the new Conscious Experience: Wildlife Explorers. Learn about the animals, plants and insects that live on and around the island and learn what their names in Dhivehi are.
Pool parties, arts and crafts, learning activities, water sports and pizza making classes fill the daily programme at The Den.
For Halloween, Soneva Fushi takes trick-or-treating out into the high seas and into the depths of the jungle. Everyone is encouraged to dress up in their spooky or creepy costumes to collect sweets and chocolates to enjoy later.
Soneva Jani – Summer Camp
Soneva Jani’s Summer Camp is two weeks long, with awards at the end of each week and the final farewell party on the very last evening.
Activities take participants along the winding paths of the main island, out on the lagoon and beneath its waves. Some of the activities are both child and teenager friendly.
Throughout the two weeks, participants can take part in experiences that inspire a sense of adventure, foster deeper learning, or ones that bring out their artistic side.
They can learn how to fish sustainably with a line and hook, or learn about all the uses of coconut – from food, to oil to building materials. The marine biology team will take them out to the reef to help them do surveys on marine life. They can search the island for sea turtle nests and learn about their unique lifecycles.
Fitness enthusiasts can run the island Jungle Gym, which was built by the hosts at Soneva Jani, or take part in energetic games that get their pulse racing. Friendly football matches and yoga and meditation sessions are also available.
In the evenings, they can sit by the camp fire, hearing traditional Maldivian tales, while making s’mores over flames. They can also spend time with the resident astronomer and learn the secrets of the night sky through the state-of-the-art telescope at the overwater Observatory.
Soneva Jani – August Calendar
Outside of the Summer Camp activities, there are special bonding experiences, like the Mother and Daughter and Father and Son Spa Packages that include soothing massages for a pampering session.
Soneva Jani – October Calendar
In October, on top of the Mother and Daughter and Father and Son Spa Packages is the Children’s Yoga and Nail Art Sessions. Here, Soneva Jani’s young guests can choose to learn new yoga poses with the resident yogi, or learn how to paint bright and colourful nail art with The Den team.
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.
Soneva Fushi inspires the imagination with 63 spacious beachfront villas, ranging in size from one- to nine-bedrooms, hidden among dense foliage and located within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Watch classic movies at the resort’s outdoor Cinema Paradiso. Choose from nine different dining options, five hundred wines and 11 types of pillow. Unwind at the on-site Six Senses Spa. Nature’s resources are transformed into art at the Glass Studio, while The Den gives children the freedom to live their island dream. Glorious days are spent star-gazing at the Observatory, sampling organic delicacies and exploring the coral reef.
Inspired by a word that means ‘wisdom’ in Sanskrit, Soneva Jani is located on a collection of five islands, and a beautiful, 5.6km lagoon.
The resort currently comprises 24 overwater villas and three island villas, with additional villas to be built in Chapter 2. Each Water Villa opens to its own stretch of sparkling lagoon and is complete with a private pool and a retractable roof to stargaze from the master bedroom, while many villas also have slides from the top deck into the water below.
Explore the glimmering galaxies from the resort’s state-of-the-art observatory or spend time indulging in a range of activities including water sports, scuba diving, wellness therapies, dolphin cruises and bicycling along the island’s many trails.
Prepare for an unforgettable escape at the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, where Halloween festivities blend seamlessly with luxurious experiences. This year, the resort elevates the excitement with a full week of thrilling adventures, immersive Halloween-themed activities, and fun for the whole family. With an exclusive “Kids Stay & Eat Free” offer, there’s no better time to plan a family getaway at one of the top family resorts in the Maldives.
Beginning on 28th October, the Halloween festivities kick off with the Creepy Food Challenge at Anchorage, where guests can sample creatively eerie dishes that will excite both kids and adults alike. For those with an artistic flair, there will be a Halloween Sip & Paint session at Kakuni, allowing guests to sip cocktails while crafting their very own Halloween masterpiece. As night falls, Anchorage Bar will transform into a magical wonderland for the Witches & Wizards Disco Night, where the whole family can dance under the stars in costume, fully embracing the festive spirit of Halloween in paradise.
On 29th October, guests can dive into the day with Aqua Aerobics at the main pool, where spooky costumes and devil horns are encouraged! After splashing around, the fun continues with the Wrap the Mummy Station at Anchorage Bar, where participants can channel their inner mummy in this playful challenge. As the evening draws near, attendees can prepare for the spectacular Avatar Performance at Anchorage Bar, a show that will captivate guests with its mysterious, otherworldly magic.
30th October welcomes the Day of Vampires and Devils, starting with a special themed breakfast, where guests can snap a photo with a vampire. The eerie vibes continue in the afternoon with the Vampire Face Paint Station at Anchorage Bar, allowing kids (and adults) to transform into their favourite Halloween characters, complete with candy vampire teeth. The night promises to be unforgettable with a Vampire Pop-Up Performance and Karaoke session at Anchorage Bar, inviting guests to unleash their inner creatures of the night.
Halloween itself, 31st October, marks the pinnacle of the celebration, with the entire resort embracing a spooky atmosphere. The day begins with a ghostly surprise as haunting characters roam the resort for the Halloween Ghost Cosplay during breakfast, creating perfect photo opportunities for families. Later, guests can join the Pumpkin Carving session at Anchorage, where both kids and adults can showcase their creative skills. As the sun sets, the festivities reach their peak with the Thriller Night Flash Mob and DJ party at Anchorage Bar, followed by a hair-raising visit to the Haunted House, open from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm—perfect for families who love a good scare!
The evening culminates with a lavish Hollow Beach Buffet, where families can enjoy a mouthwatering spread of Halloween-inspired dishes while soaking in live music under the Maldivian sky.
Throughout the week, the Kids Club will be buzzing with special Halloween-themed activities, including pirate sword-making, “Find Jack Sparrow” treasure hunts, Halloween mocktail potion making, creepy cupcake decoration, and fun-filled pool parties, ensuring the little ones are fully immersed in the spooky spirit.
Celebration
Festive journey of luxury and sustainability: holiday highlights at Sun Siyam Iru Veli and Vilu Reef
The festive season at Sun Siyam Iru Veli and Sun Siyam Vilu Reef promises unforgettable experiences for guests of all ages. Both resorts have curated distinct themes to celebrate the holidays, focusing on transformation and sustainability while providing luxurious experiences for their visitors.
Sun Siyam Iru Veli: Metamorphosis – A Festive Transformation
This year, Sun Siyam Iru Veli’s festive theme, “Metamorphosis,” symbolises growth and renewal. The resort has embraced a journey of transformation, offering elevated services and experiences while maintaining the core values that its guests cherish. From family-friendly Christmas fun to wellness journeys and a celebratory Christmas dinner, every aspect of this festive period is designed to showcase the beauty of change and renewal. Christmas Day activities include a Whale and manta shark snorkeling trip in the morning, followed by Santa’s arrival at Dolphin Beach, and a Christmas Cinema Paradise for Kids & Family at Chemistry in the evening. Adults can also start their Christmas morning with yoga and pilates classes as part of a wellness activity.
For New Year’s Eve, DJ Toni Mesas will set the stage for an energetic evening. An international DJ from Barcelona, Toni is known for his love of electronic music, particularly techno house. Following his performance, the Wildfire Arts Collective, premier cirque-style entertainers from Los Angeles, will deliver a breathtaking fire show during the cocktail party and New Year’s countdown.
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef: Island Harmony – Eco-Friendly Festive Splendour
At Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, this year’s theme, “Island Harmony,” embraces an eco-friendly celebration with a focus on cultural sustainability. The island will be adorned with decorations made from coconut, bamboo, and palm leaves, reflecting the resort’s commitment to eco-conscious luxury. Christmas celebrations will include Santa’s arrival at Aqua Beach, live music, and beach games for families and children, such as sand sculpting for kids and a family movie night. Island excursions, sunset fishing, and a variety of watersports will also be available.
On New Year’s Eve, DJ Cosmicatx, Saudi Arabia’s first female superstar DJ and producer, will lead the festivities with her music. Additionally, the world-renowned LED artists, SuperLEDShow, will perform mesmerising acts to ring in the new year. Dennis Kiss and Szulita Szekrényes will deliver electrifying, tightly-choreographed sessions mixing mind-melting projections, lights, acrobatics, and pure artistry—ensuring a memorable night for all in attendance.
Celebration
Tropical holiday wonderland: festive feasts, family fun, and wellness at LUX* South Ari Atoll
Celebrate the most magical time of the year under the starry skies of the Maldives with an array of thoughtfully curated festive events. At LUX* South Ari Atoll, guests are invited to experience the warmth of Maldivian hospitality through beachfront feasts, creative children’s activities, and vibrant culinary and musical celebrations. From December 22, 2024, to January 7, 2025, the resort offers a variety of programs designed to create unforgettable memories.
“Our resort is the perfect destination for the festive season, blending the natural beauty of a tropical island with a host of special events,” says John Rogers, General Manager of LUX* South Ari Atoll. “Recently recognised as the Best Resort for Families in the Maldives by Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2024, we have crafted extraordinary experiences to cater to every guest. Whether you wish to immerse yourself in the festive spirit, unwind with a spa day, or explore the underwater world, you can celebrate the season in true LUX* style.”
The resort will host four distinguished experts, each offering workshops to enhance guest experiences. Renowned painter Hussain Ihfal Ahmed, also known as “Iphpha,” will present his acclaimed coffee paintings and impressionist works inspired by nature. Japanese artist Makers Space will introduce guests to a distinctive pixelated art style, reimagining familiar scenes in vivid new ways. Hamburg-based artist Jeannine Platz will captivate audiences with her expressive calligraphy and performance art, blending dynamic harbou paintings with live demonstrations. Additionally, German volleyball champion Jochen Schöps will lead daily workshops, providing guests the rare opportunity to train with an Olympic athlete.
The festivities kick off on December 22 with an elegant Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, featuring canapés, bubbly, and festive cocktails, all set to the sound of carols. Christmas Eve celebrations include a lavish international buffet at MIXE and East Market, followed by a Christmas Eve Party at Beach Rouge. On Christmas Day, guests can enjoy a traditional roast in true Maldivian style. The celebrations continue on December 26 with MIXE Maldivian Night, featuring local flavours and entertainment. As New Year approaches, excitement builds for the New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner, followed by a Year-End Countdown Party at Senses, complete with live entertainment and a spectacular fireworks display to ring in 2025.
Children will be enchanted by a season full of surprises. Activities include gingerbread house decorating, writing letters to Santa, and festive crafts to ignite their imaginations. Santa himself will make a special beachside appearance on Christmas morning, bringing gifts for every young guest. With beach games, treasure hunts, and outdoor movie nights, the fun never ends.
Guests can craft their ideal holiday with a perfect balance of festive celebrations and tranquil island activities. Daily wellness sessions, including floating yoga and facial workshops, offer moments of relaxation, while the Maldives’ vibrant marine life can be explored through guided snorkelling and diving excursions. For those looking to unwind, the spa offers exclusive festive packages to rejuvenate and refresh, ensuring guests leave feeling their best.
With 10 room categories available, ranging from chic bungalows for leisurely mornings to overwater villas offering ultimate privacy, or pavilions with direct beach access for easy beach lounging, LUX* South Ari Atoll caters to both couples and families, ensuring everyone enjoys their ideal holiday retreat.
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