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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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Celebrate love in paradise: magical Valentine’s Day at Canareef Resort Maldives

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Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love, connection, and the creation of lasting memories. Few places offer a more romantic setting than the pristine shores of the Maldives. Canareef Resort Maldives is curating an unforgettable Valentine’s Day experience, featuring a magical beach dinner under the stars, alongside special spa and photography offers to enhance a romantic getaway.

To elevate relaxation during the Valentine’s period, Canareef Resort Maldives is offering exclusive spa experiences:

  • Complimentary Head or Foot Massage: Guests who book a one-hour couples massage will receive a complimentary 30-minute head or foot massage to further unwind together.
  • Extended Relaxation: Those who choose the “Couples Harmony” package, a two-hour experience, will receive an extra hour at no additional cost. This three-hour indulgence includes a one-hour massage, a one-hour body scrub, and a one-hour natural facial, leaving couples feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

To commemorate a romantic escape, Canareef Resort Maldives is offering a special Valentine’s Day photography package:

  • Valentine’s Special Photo Offer: A professional photoshoot captures the essence of love in a 20-minute session at a picturesque location. The package includes 10 beautifully edited photos as cherished keepsakes, priced at $85++ (plus taxes and service charge). Bookings open on February 7th, with the offer valid until February 14th.

On Wednesday, February 14th, 2025, guests can indulge in a specially curated Valentine’s Dinner on the beach, designed to delight the senses.

The evening begins with ‘Let’s Fire’, featuring succulent prawns with asparagus salad, providing a light yet flavourful start to the meal. This is followed by a comforting Cream of Mushroom Soup, setting the stage for the upcoming courses. A Lemon Mint Sorbet palate cleanser refreshes the taste buds before the “Burning Passion” main course selection.

Guests can choose from three exquisite main course options:

  • Seafood Medley: A symphony of ocean flavours, served with crispy vegetable salad and heart-shaped roasted pumpkin garlic butter.
  • Fillet of Beef Tournedos: Tender, perfectly cooked beef accompanied by seasonal vegetables and heart-shaped fondant potatoes with hollandaise sauce.
  • Spinach and Ricotta Tortellini: A vegetarian delight, featuring delicate pasta in a white wine and basil cream sauce.

The evening concludes with “Consuming Love”, a decadent raspberry cheesecake with strawberry coulis and a Valentine’s chocolate fortifier, accompanied by tea or coffee.

This enchanting dining experience is priced at USD 85 per person, inclusive of taxes and service charge. To enhance the romantic ambiance, each couple will receive a complimentary rose and a glass of champagne.

Valentine’s Day at Canareef Resort Maldives is more than just a dinner; it is an experience. It offers an opportunity to create cherished moments against the stunning Maldivian backdrop, under a canopy of stars, with the soothing sound of waves in the background. It is a celebration of unique connections in an idyllic setting, ensuring an unforgettable romantic escape.

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Unforgettable love stories begin at Ifuru Island Maldives

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Ifuru Island Maldives offers the ultimate romantic escape, featuring 147 luxurious beach suites and villas designed for couples seeking a modern and elegant retreat. Ideal for honeymoons, weddings, proposals, or peaceful getaways, the resort provides a secluded and picturesque haven where every detail is meticulously crafted to create unforgettable moments. From private ‘kissing spots’ and exclusive romantic packages to curated wedding offers and exceptional deals, Ifuru Island Maldives caters to every couple’s desires. In anticipation of Valentine’s Day, the resort aims to inspire couples, whether they are planning significant milestones or simply enjoying each other’s company.

The Love in Paradise Package at Ifuru Island Maldives allows couples to create lasting memories with an ultimate romantic getaway. Offering luxurious upgrades, exclusive dining experiences, and thoughtful touches, this package sets the perfect stage for love. Highlights include:

  • Romantic Dining: Floating breakfasts, canapés & cocktails, private dinners, and sunset cocktails.
  • Couples’ Indulgences: A spa treatment, bubble bath setups, and romantic turn-downs.
  • Memorable Moments: Private sunset cruises, lagoon dives, art classes, and photo sessions.
  • Adventure Awaits: Complimentary water sports and snorkelling gear.
  • Special Perks: $100 resort credit per person and bespoke keepsakes.

Ifuru Island Maldives offers couples the opportunity to experience their dream wedding with its Free Wedding Package, which includes a range of complimentary features designed to create an unforgettable celebration. This package ensures that every detail is carefully arranged, allowing couples to relax and enjoy their special day. Package highlights include signature cocktails, a dedicated wedding planner, a private and elegantly styled wedding venue, a wedding cake, a bridal bouquet, and thoughtful touches such as a unique villa turn-down and a decorated buggy ride to the ceremony. From a scenic venue to intimate details, this package transforms a wedding into an extraordinary event in one of the world’s most romantic destinations.

The package is available for bookings on the Exclusively Yours Premium All-Inclusive plan between 1 May 2025 and 30 September 2025, with a minimum stay of seven nights required.

Visitors to Ifuru Island Maldives can discover charming ‘kissing spots’ scattered throughout the island, thoughtfully designed to create dreamy, picture-perfect moments. These special locations provide guests with the opportunity to capture memories in stunning natural settings, with the breathtaking turquoise waters serving as a picturesque backdrop.

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AMRA Skincare arrives at Javvu Spa, Amilla Maldives

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Javvu Spa at Amilla Maldives introduces an elevated realm of rejuvenation with the launch of AMRA, a renowned skincare line rooted in nature and refined by science. This carefully curated collection has been seamlessly integrated into the spa’s bespoke treatments, reflecting Amilla’s dedication to mindful well-being and sustainability.

Blending the healing properties of the island’s indigenous ingredients with AMRA’s advanced formulations, the AMRA Signature treatments at Amilla Maldives are designed to leave guests feeling renewed and deeply nurtured. Among the highlights is The Amilla Signature Journey by AMRA, which features gold and vitamin C exfoliation, a green caviar rhassoul mask, a 24kt gold stone massage, and a gold and green caviar facial—offering relaxation, skin refinement, and deep hydration (USD 570, 180 minutes). Additionally, the AMRA Olfactory Sound Bath Experience provides a restorative sense of balance through a combination of cleansing foot rituals, aura misting, personalised facial and hair treatments, sound baths, and chakra massage (USD 590, 180 minutes).

To ensure that each treatment aligns with AMRA’s philosophy, the therapists at Javvu Spa have undergone an immersive training program led by AMRA experts. This hands-on experience has deepened their understanding of AMRA’s innovative techniques and unique formulations, equipping them to deliver personalised, transformative treatments.

Narelle McDougall, General Manager of Amilla, expressed enthusiasm about the new partnership, stating, “With AMRA as our skincare partner, we are very excited about the variety of face and body treatments we will be offering our guests. The introduction of AMRA complements our ethos of creating serene, nurturing experiences that reflect the natural beauty of Amilla and the surrounding ocean.”

Each AMRA product is crafted using rare botanicals, precious minerals, and pure oils, designed to nourish the skin and soothe the soul. This harmonious blend of nature and innovation aligns with Amilla’s commitment to preserving the island’s tranquil surroundings while offering memorable moments of connection and care.

Guests are invited to explore the new offerings at Javvu Spa, where every treatment serves as a sensory journey—an opportunity to pause, unwind, and reconnect.

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