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Soneva Fushi unveils world’s largest one- and two-bedroom overwater villas

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Soneva Fushi’s new Water Retreats are soon to be ready to welcome guests, adding yet another facet to the original barefoot luxury resort.

Guests can expect innovative designs and some new changes to the iconic Water Retreat designs that can be found at Soneva Jani.

Reached by a gently curving jetty near Dolphin Beach, at the opposite end of the island to the Out of the Blue dining destination, the eight Water Retreats have been designed to ensure the utmost privacy for guests, as well as to make the most of the picture-perfect ocean vistas.

The One Bedroom Water Retreats (584 sqm/6,286 sqft) and Two Bedroom Water Retreats (857 sqm/9,224 sqft) are the largest one- and two-bedroom overwater villas in the world.

The spacious interiors and exterior living spaces give guests more to love, as well as making them perfect for families.

As each of the rooms in the Water Retreats can be sealed off, the doors out onto the deck can be locked, and the children’s room is located at the back of the master bedroom, they are child-friendly and suitable for young Soneva guests of all ages.

The One and Two Bedroom Water Retreats, all with water slides, will open their doors to guests on September 25.

“We are very proud to announce this exciting new phase for Soneva Fushi,” Sonu Shivdasani, Soneva’s CEO and Founder, was quoted in a statement, as saying.

“When we first launched Soneva Fushi in 1995, we redefined tourism in the Maldives with our unique vision that pioneered the concept of sustainable luxury. After 25 years at the forefront of the global luxury tourism sector and as a bucket-list destination in the Maldives, we are always striving to evolve with our guests’ ever-changing needs. While we will always remain true to the much-loved spirit and laid-back ethos of Soneva Fushi, the new Water Retreat villas will elevate our offering. Having overwater villas gives our guests the luxury of choice, to stay amongst the deep greens of the jungle with the beach just steps away, or wake up to panoramic views of the ocean.”

Noticeably different from Soneva Jani’s iconic Water Retreats, these new overwater villas at Soneva Fushi are not whitewashed, so the browns of the natural and sustainable wood panels are visible through the interior finishing.

The Two Bedroom Water Retreats have both bedrooms on the ground floor, while the pool has been moved to the front of the pool deck, where it is now suspended over the ocean.

The pool deck has been extended for more space for sun loungers and daybeds, with extra overhangs that create more shade. Catamaran nets let guests sit above the waves, while curved steps lead from the pool deck to the water below.

When it comes to the interior, the colour palette consists of light blues, greens, and soft beiges, bringing to mind the colours of the ocean around Soneva Fushi and the verdant island jungle.

The décor is true to the rustic castaway style that Soneva Fushi is known for, similar to the resort’s newer villas (Villa 38 and 43). The lighting systems are from PLH Italia, known for their sleek and discrete design.

“I wanted to keep Soneva Fushi’s natural beauty, so it looks almost the same as the day we found it, with the villas hidden amongst the vegetation. When we had to add more villas, we didn’t want to touch the beach, as we believe it should be for our guests and the turtles that visit our shores. So, we built over the ocean. We hired all the right people to come and assess the proposed location, ensuring there would not be any live coral in the area.,” Eva Malmstrom Shivdasani, Soneva’s Creative Director and Conscience, said.

“The new Water Retreats are very spacious and have been finished in Soneva Fushi’s rustic style. Everyone involved in building these overwater villas has done a fantastic job. Everything is bespoke and the joinery craftsmanship is amazing. Our guests can now stay in an island villa or a Water Retreat without moving between resorts.”

These Water Retreats have been raised high enough above the ocean so that the waves do not break against the underside like most overwater villas, thus reducing noise and vibrations.

The walls use recycled Styrofoam as insulation, which helps keep the interiors cooler and serves to muffle the sound of the wind and waves.

With a push of a button, the retractable roof slides back above the master bed to reveal sunny skies or starlit nights. The new mechanism is now made using aluminium, rather than steel, making its operation even smoother and quieter.

The curving jetty that links the Water Retreats to the island has been redesigned with the jetty planks laid lengthwise rather than width-wise to reduce the noise of buggies and bicycles riding along them.

With a choice of either sunrise or sunset views, the villas feature a large al fresco deck, which includes plush sun loungers, a sunken seating area and catamaran nets. Choose between swimming in the ocean or the private pool, while a curving 19-metre slide plunges into the waves from the upper floor.

Both villa types feature an expansive upper level with a dining sala, as well as Soneva’s signature outdoor bathroom with direct access to the sea.

Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the spacious dining and living areas with natural light, while a fully-fitted pantry with wine fridge and minibar provide gourmet snacks and drinks.

Flanked by an en-suite bathroom, dressing room and children’s sleeping area, the master bedroom suite features a king-sized bed for the ultimate in comfort.

In the two-bedroom villa, a second guest bedroom also includes a king-sized bed, en-suite bathroom and dressing room.

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 the castaway fantasy with intelligent luxury.

Stay in one of the 63 island villas, ranging in size from one to nine bedrooms, and eight one- and two-bedroom Water Retreats.

Each island villa comes with its own stretch of beach, most have their own pools, and are hidden among dense foliage within touching distance of a pristine coral reef. The Water Retreats all have water slides into the sea below, private pools, and Soneva’s iconic retractable roof above the master bed.

Intuitive service is provided by Mr./Ms. Friday butlers.

Highlights include the outdoor Cinema Paradiso, exploring the cosmos at the high-tech Observatory, indulging in the complimentary chocolate, ice cream and cheese rooms, five hundred wines to choose from, and 11 restaurants and bars.

Soneva’s floating villa concept, Soneva in Aqua, is a luxury two-cabin yacht that sets sail from Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani.

Explore the treasure trove that is the children’s Den, that comes with a Lego room, dress up room, two pools, a water slide and more.

There is a multi-purpose facility that encompasses the Maldives’ only hot glass studio, the glass gallery, and boutique where guests can learn the art of glassblowing.

If the experiences are magical, the philosophy is simple: No news, no shoes. No pretensions either.

The starting price for the new Water Retreats at Soneva Fushi is $2,626+++ per night for the One Bedroom Water Retreat with Slide, and $5,232+++ per night for the Two Bedroom Water Retreat with Slide. For more information and bookings, please visit www.soneva.com.

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Angsana Velavaru: sustainable paradise for adventure and relaxation

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Angsana Velavaru, nestled in the pristine waters of the Maldives, offers an idyllic escape for families and groups seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. With a commitment to environmental sustainability, this vibrant resort has become a hub for engaging water-based activities that not only entertain but also educate guests about marine conservation and the rich local ecosystems.

Every experience at Angsana Velavaru provides visitors with a window into the dynamic life beneath the waves. From snorkelling among vibrant coral reefs and kayaking through serene lagoons to paddle-boarding along the island’s edges, these immersive activities reveal the intricate marine ecosystems of the Maldives. Among the “101 Things to Do” is the coral planting program at the resort’s Marine Lab, where guests partner with marine biologists to restore the reefs by planting coral fragments that nurture underwater biodiversity. This hands-on experience not only inspires a deep respect for marine conservation but also leaves a lasting, positive impact on the ocean’s fragile environment.

In line with its commitment to sustainability, Angsana Velavaru has implemented a variety of innovative initiatives aimed at protecting the island and its natural resources. Recent projects include the installation of solar panels that harness renewable energy, significantly reducing the resort’s carbon footprint. Additionally, a food compost machine has been introduced to minimise waste, while a rainwater harvesting system conserves water resources vital to the island’s ecosystem. The resort has also adopted a saltwater chlorination system for its pools, enhancing the health and safety of swimming environments while decreasing reliance on harsh chemicals.

As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, Angsana Velavaru proudly introduces SustainLinen, a unique initiative that repurposes leftover fabric to create stylish tote bags. This innovative project not only promotes recycling and waste reduction but also provides guests with a practical memento that embodies their commitment to sustainability during their stay.

As the festive season draws near, Angsana Velavaru has curated an exciting line-up of celebrations and exclusive offers tailored for friends and families. From meticulously planned holiday events and themed dining experiences to activity-filled days on the island, visitors will find ample opportunities to create lasting memories in the Maldives’ enchanting setting. The resort invites everyone to partake in a unique celebration that encapsulates the spirit of the season while embracing the stunning beauty and culture of the Maldives.

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Fashion

Patina Maldives and Stampd debut their second collaborative collection

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Patina Maldives, Fari Islands, and Stampd have announced their second collaborative capsule collection, emerging from a shared passion for mindful design and fresh perspectives. This partnership deepens the creative dialogue initiated during their 2023 collaboration, seamlessly blending the tranquil pace of island life with the monochrome and minimalistic style that is characteristic of Chris Stamp, the founder and creative director of Stampd.

The collection targets modern travellers who seek purposeful and meaningful experiences by offering an aesthetic that is effortlessly refined. It combines surf-ready comfort with metropolitan sophistication, appealing to conscious consumers and ocean enthusiasts alike.

Reflecting Patina Maldives and Stampd’s commitment to environmental stewardship, the pieces are crafted from consciously selected materials, including organic cotton, recycled ocean-bound plastics, and locally sourced natural fibres. This collaborative passion project features a t-shirt for both men and women, a unisex white linen shirt, swim shorts for both genders, a trucker cap, and a tote, with each piece embodying the collaborative spirit of both brands.

Anthony Gill, the General Manager of Patina Maldives, stated, “At Patina Maldives, we believe in the transformative power of fresh mindsets. This collaboration with Stampd captures our ethos of deep connections—whether between nature and design or among like-minded individuals who share our passion for experiences that leave a lasting impression. Each piece tells a story of discovery and connection, inviting guests to embrace new perspectives while respecting our commitment to the environment and community, striking the perfect balance between purpose and style.”

The seeds of this collaboration were planted during Chris Stamp’s immersive journey to Patina Maldives in late 2022. Through his Polaroid camera, Stamp captured the interplay of light, water, and architecture that defines the resort’s distinctive character. These moments of curiosity evolved into a collection that honours both the serene rhythm of island life and the dynamic pulse of coastal cities through urban-ready fashion.

Chris Stamp remarked, “Growing up in Southern California and now calling Miami home, I’ve always lived at the intersection of ocean and city. This collection celebrates the art of discovery, bringing together individuals who share a passion for thoughtful design and sustainability in luxury. Each piece carries our stamp and the Patina spirit, inspiring wearers to embrace fresh perspectives whether they’re exploring urban landscapes or finding serenity by the ocean.”

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Ayada Maldives introduces the sleek Jet Car experience

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Ayada Maldives, renowned for its luxury experiences and stunning oceanic paradise, has introduced an exhilarating new way to explore the island’s turquoise waters: the Jet Car. This innovative, sports-car-inspired watercraft offers guests the ultimate blend of luxury and adventure, providing a one-of-a-kind experience in the Maldivian seas.

The Ayada Maldives Jet Car is more than just a ride; it represents an unforgettable thrill. Designed to resemble a sleek sports car, this watercraft glides effortlessly over the lagoon, offering an exhilarating way to explore the island’s pristine waters in style. Perfect for adventure seekers and luxury enthusiasts alike, the Jet Car presents an unmatched opportunity to experience the breathtaking views and vibrant marine life of the Maldives from an entirely new perspective.

Guests embarking on the Jet Car adventure will feel the excitement as they cruise through Ayada’s stunning waters, creating waves and turning heads along the way. This unique watercraft is not only a visual spectacle but also easy to operate, making it accessible for both experienced water sports enthusiasts and those new to water-based adventures.

The Jet Car experience is available for booking at Ayada Maldives’ Watersports Center, with prices starting from $249 per ride. Each ride promises to be a highlight of any guest’s stay, providing an unbeatable blend of adrenaline and beauty that captures the essence of the Maldives.

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