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Soneva marks milestone 25th anniversary with new film series by Bruno Aveillan

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Soneva, the luxury resorts operator with award-winning properties in the Maldives and Thailand, is celebrating its landmark 25th anniversary with a 12 month campaign starting from this month.

To mark the occasion, renowned French filmmaker Bruno Aveillan has created a new series of films that focus on the driving force behind Soneva’s success: its people.

The films, available to view on Soneva’s youtube channel, take an in-depth look at some of the fascinating individuals who represent every facet of the Soneva brand, from the dedicated guardians of the islands’ natural beauty to the skilled creatives whose diverse talents shape the unforgettable Soneva experience.

An acclaimed filmmaker, photographer and artist, Aveillan is considered one of the most in-demand directors on the planet, working with world-renowned brands that include Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Chanel and Time Warner.

A recipient of more than 200 awards, including multiple Gold Lions at Cannes, Gold Clio Awards and Grand Prix Stratégie, Aveillan’s name has become a by-word for modern cinematographic excellence.

A staunch Soneva enthusiast since his first stay at Soneva Fushi, Aveillan was also behind the lens for Soneva’s 2018/19 Festival of Colour campaign, which brought to life the diverse array of unique guest experiences, visiting experts and activities taking place throughout the year, inspired by the vibrant palette of hues at Soneva Fushi, Soneva Jani and Soneva Kiri.

The director’s latest film series focuses on Soneva Fushi in the Baa Atoll, which was the first Soneva resort to open its doors back in 1995, setting a new standard in sustainable luxury and transforming the hospitality sector in the Maldives archipelago and beyond.

Featuring one four-minute long brand film and 10 shorter videos, the series was shot against the backdrop of Soneva Fushi’s idyllic natural beauty and is bathed in the island’s sublime golden sunlight.

“By directing this new opus for this enchanting place, I had the great opportunity to meet what perhaps constitutes the absolute treasure of this pure jewel on earth: its human beings,” says Aveillan.

“Day by day, these people make the dream happen, shaping the soul and creating the legend of Soneva. Happy birthday, dearest Soneva!” 

The films star some of Soneva Fushi’s best-loved Hosts, many of whom have been with the resort since the very beginning.

Both Shantha, Soneva Fushi’s chocolate maestro, and talented head Pastry Chef, and Rocket, the island’s sustainable fisherman, joined the Soneva family back in 1995. Kudafari’s connection with the resort dates back even further – he was the caretaker of Kunfunadhoo who helped founders Sonu and Eva discover the island, and his pet rabbit was the ancestor of all the famous bunnies who now call Soneva Fushi their home.

Living proof that Soneva Fushi is one of the world’s most romantic destinations, husband and wife Hosts, Shameem and Aju, reveal the story of how they first met and fell in love on the island.

Skilled sommeliers Charles and Mariko explain the passions that drive them, while tailor Ali introduces his son, who now works for Soneva, too.

Viewers also get to meet Construction Director Ahmed and Resort Housekeeper Abdulla, and discover more about their key role in creating and maintaining the beautiful natural setting and spectacular architecture that are synonymous with the Soneva brand.

“2020 is a very special year for Soneva so we decided to create a film series to commemorate our landmark 25th anniversary and show our appreciation for our extended Soneva family,” says Sonu Shivdasani, Founder and CEO of Soneva.

“With a plethora of awards, including several Gold Cannes Lions, London International Awards and New York Clios, we were very lucky that acclaimed filmmaker and photographer Bruno Aveillan agreed to direct it. A Soneva enthusiast himself, Bruno has created several short films for us over the years, such as ‘The Boy with the Coconut’, and, more recently, our ‘Festival of Colours’ film series. We are delighted with the final cut and cannot wait to share the series with the world so that people can get to know some of the of the remarkable individuals who have played a role in our success.”

Soneva is a pioneering family of hospitality properties and products, offering holistic encounters in luxurious and inspiring environments – from world class resorts to outstanding natural locations. Combining luxury with a conscientious approach to sustainability and the environment, and proactively changing the nature of hospitality, it delivers intuitive service and meaningful experiences to the guests.

To view Soneva’s full 25th anniversary campaign including a curated collection of videos by Bruno Aveillan, and Soneva’s gallery of old photos since 1995, please visit: https://soneva.com/25-years-of-soneva 

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Noku Maldives unveils long-term Sea Turtle Conservation Programme

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Noku Maldives, Vignette Collection, has announced the launch of a dedicated Sea Turtle Conservation Programme, developed in partnership with the Atoll Marine Conservation Centre (AMCC). Beginning on 25 November 2025, this long-term initiative strengthens the resort’s commitment to the Vignette Collection pillar Means for Good, reflecting a considered approach to environmental stewardship and responsible hospitality.

The waters surrounding Noku Maldives support a naturally thriving ecosystem, characterised by extensive seagrass meadows, coral-rich shallows, and warm lagoons that provide an essential refuge for sea turtles. In recent years, the island has recorded multiple nesting events along its shores — a rare and significant indicator of the health of its marine environment. The new programme aims to safeguard and enhance this natural heritage.

As part of the collaboration, a full-time AMCC marine biologist will be stationed on the island to lead a comprehensive portfolio of conservation activities. This will include monitoring the local sea turtle population, assessing reef and coral health, supporting long-term scientific research, and conducting fieldwork and outreach initiatives across neighbouring islands.

The programme will also enhance guest engagement through educational talks, guided snorkelling experiences, and hands-on conservation workshops, offering visitors the opportunity to connect with the underwater world in an enriching and meaningful way.

The initiative complements Noku Maldives’ growing suite of Means for Good activities, which already include reef conservation studies, coral restoration projects, cultural experiences, and community-led programmes. Together, these efforts underpin the resort’s commitment to delivering stays that are rooted in authenticity, responsibility, and deep respect for the natural environment.

“Our lagoon has always been a peaceful refuge for sea turtles and marine life,” said Hussain Shahid, General Manager of Noku Maldives. “This partnership with AMCC reflects our dedication to protecting these waters and ensuring they continue to flourish. By bringing conservation, community involvement, and guest education together, we hope to create meaningful and lasting impact for the atoll.”

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From spa rituals to sunrise yoga: Angsana Velavaru champions mindful living

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Surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of South Nilandhe Atoll, Angsana Velavaru invites guests to embark on a holistic journey of renewal that nurtures both body and mind.

At the centre of this experience is the award-winning Angsana Spa, inspired by the timeless essence of Asian wellness traditions. Here, the healing power of touch, scent, and nature come together in harmony. Guests can enjoy a range of treatments designed for both relaxation and family bonding, including restorative massages, revitalising body polishes, and signature rituals that incorporate natural ingredients such as coconut, honey, and tropical herbs. Each therapy aims to rejuvenate, soothe, and restore a deep sense of inner calm that reflects the island’s natural rhythm.

Wellness at Angsana Velavaru extends far beyond the spa. The resort’s approach to wellbeing embraces movement, mindfulness, and meaningful connection. Its modern tropical fitness centre provides a tranquil setting for guests to stay active while remaining close to nature. Activities such as aqua aerobics in the Kuredhi Pool and sunrise yoga on the beach combine physical vitality with mindful awareness.

Across the island, guests are encouraged to slow down and reconnect with their surroundings. Guided meditation, breathwork sessions, and sunset yoga create opportunities for reflection and relaxation. These practices are seamlessly woven into the resort’s environment, offering a sense of serenity that lingers long after the stay.

Under the guidance of Wellbeing Director Artemasius Harefa, Angsana Velavaru’s holistic programmes align with Banyan Group’s Eight Pillars of Wellbeing, with a focus on rest, movement, mindfulness, and connection. The result is a collection of experiences designed to inspire balance and renewal, giving guests the opportunity to embrace a more mindful way of living.

“Modern travellers seek more than rest; they seek renewal,” said Artemasius Harefa, Wellbeing Director at Angsana Velavaru. “Our goal is to create experiences that help guests reconnect with themselves and the natural world, turning wellness into a meaningful way of life.”

At Angsana Velavaru, wellbeing is not a moment but a continuous journey shaped by nature, connection, and the healing spirit of the Maldives.

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Trans Maldivian Airways named World’s Leading Seaplane Operator 2025

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Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA), the world’s largest seaplane operator, has once again strengthened its position as a global aviation leader with new accolades at the World Travel Awards 2025. The airline was named the World’s Leading Seaplane Operator 2025 and the Indian Ocean’s Leading Seaplane Operator 2025, acknowledging its continued contribution to air connectivity across the Maldives. The 32nd Annual World Travel Awards ceremony took place at Exhibition World Bahrain and was attended by more than 300 leaders from the international tourism industry.

Established in 1993, TMA has played a central role in shaping the Maldives’ aviation and tourism sectors. Operating the world’s largest seaplane fleet with 65 DHC-6 Twin Otters and serving over 80 resort destinations, the airline provides vital connectivity across the archipelago with a focus on safety, reliability, and operational efficiency. Conducting more than 400 flights daily, TMA remains essential in enabling access to resort islands nationwide.

Commenting on the achievement, A.U.M. Fawzy, CEO of Trans Maldivian Airways, said: “This prestigious recognition from the World Travel Awards, year after year, reflects the trust placed in our team by our partners and guests, and the responsibility we carry as the primary air service provider connecting resort destinations across the Maldives. At TMA, our focus remains on continuous improvement and building on decades of service excellence. As the tourism industry in the Maldives continues to evolve and grow, we will continue strengthening our operations and supporting the long-term development of the Maldives as a world-leading destination.”

TMA continues to enhance its operational capabilities through ongoing investments in fleet upgrades, infrastructure, staff training, and technology-driven improvements, ensuring it meets rising demand while maintaining its hallmark of dependable service.

As the Maldives prepares for further growth in visitor arrivals, Trans Maldivian Airways remains committed to working closely with industry partners, supporting national tourism objectives, and ensuring a seamless and reliable travel experience for guests visiting the country’s island destinations.

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