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Soneva Jani welcomes new era with launch of Chapter Two
Soneva, the luxury resort operator with sustainability at its core, has announced the launch of Soneva Jani, Chapter Two.
The award-winning Maldives resort is synonymous with overwater luxury, superlative hospitality and rare guest experiences, and this new chapter marks the beginning of an incredible new era.
Now open to guests, Chapter Two expands upon Soneva Jani’s portfolio of luxurious water villas, as well as introducing exciting new dining concepts, the Soneva Wellness Centre, and a whole new way to experience the best of the resort with Soneva Unlimited.
“We are delighted to introduce guests to Soneva Jani Chapter Two,” Sonu Shivdasani, Founder and CEO of Soneva, said.
“As we continue to celebrate Soneva’s 25th anniversary into the middle of 2021, Chapter Two will mark the start of an exciting new era for Soneva Jani. At this milestone moment in our story, we will continue to set the standard for sustainable luxury with even more choices of exquisite accommodation, remarkable gastronomy and rare, unforgettable experiences for our guests.”
Twenty-seven new overwater villas can be accessed via a winding jetty off the southern tip of the resort’s main island. The new villas in Chapter Two have been carefully positioned to maximise privacy and create a true sense of seclusion, with the ocean on all sides and unmatched views of the sunrise or sunset.
Ranging from the spacious One Bedroom Water Reserves to a sprawling Four Bedroom Water Reserve, they are among the largest and most luxurious overwater villas of their kind in the world: each featuring vast indoor and outdoor living spaces and sweeping terraces, private pool, some have slides straight into the private lagoon, and outdoor bathrooms for bathing under the sun and stars.
The one- and two-bedroom Reserves also have the iconic retractable roof over the master bed for stargazing. Ideal for families, all the rooms can be closed off, with a children’s sleeping area located just behind the master bedrooms for maximum peace of mind while staying overwater.
Like all of Soneva’s villas, the new Water Reserves have been crafted to the highest environmental standards, using sustainable materials, such as Forest Stewardship Council-certified woods, and state-of-the-art technology to reduce their impact on the planet.
Commanding unforgettable views, they include 20 One Bedroom Water Reserves, six Two Bedroom Water Reserves (including one which has been designed to accommodate differently abled guests) and a Four Bedroom Water Reserve.
Soneva Jani’s existing three and four Bedroom Island Reserves on the island now fall under Chapter Two.
When guests book a stay in any of the Chapter Two overwater or island villas, they get to experience Soneva Unlimited, an indulgent new offering that invites guests to enjoy every facet of Soneva Jani to their heart’s desire, all included in the price of the villa.
Soneva Unlimited includes unlimited: dining at all bars, restaurants and In-Villa Dining; alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks at all bars and restaurants; visiting Michelin-starred chef dinners and experiences; wines from the Soneva Unlimited list; experiences, diving, and children’s experiences; and spa treatments.
Also included under Soneva Unlimited is a dedicated Barefoot Butler, return shared seaplane transfers from Malé, daily laundry service, and daily replenishment of the in-villa minibar. The full Soneva Unlimited menu can be viewed here.
Wellbeing is a vital part of the Soneva philosophy, and Chapter Two welcomes the launch of the new Wellness Centre on Soneva Jani’s picturesque South Beach.
Set to open its doors in Q2 of 2021, the 1,742 sqm centre will set a new standard in holistic wellness, combining ancient Ayurvedic techniques with cutting-edge therapies. It has been designed to harmonise with its breath-taking beachside setting and features two indoor therapy rooms and three open-air treatment pavilions with unmatched views of the spectacular natural surrounds.
The Wellness Centre includes a dedicated Ayurvedic Clinic as well as an indoor consultation room for visiting specialists. Alongside a cross-functional fitness area, an open-air yoga pavilion includes facilities for aerial yoga.
The new complex also features a retail area, featuring sustainable apparel, wellness products and accessories.
Chapter Two also expands on Soneva Jani’s choice of dining destinations.
Overseas by Mathias Dahlgren was the first new outlet to open in October 2020. It is the brainchild of celebrated Swedish chef and restaurateur, Mathias Dahlgren. Inspired by its spectacular location next to The Gathering, this casual, overwater restaurant serves lunch and dinner menus of plant-based and pescatarian dishes, with produce freshly picked from Soneva Jani’s organic gardens, or sustainably caught in the waters around the resort.
So Wild by Diana Von Cranach is a fully plant-based restaurant in the midst of the Organic Garden. Diana’s 50 years of experience in plant-focused dining come to life in a menu that draws inspiration from Ayurveda and highlights ingredients grown at the resort. Having forged her own culinary path in Asia, the internationally renowned raw food chef and cookbook author has created a menu that revives historical recipes from around South East Asia and Indonesia. Ingredients are prepared using techniques like steaming, flash-frying, and dehydrating when they aren’t presented raw.
The third new culinary addition to Soneva Jani is So Primitive. Set around the central fire pit, this dining experience puts the element of fire in the spotlight. Think roasting, grilling, searing, salt-crusted baking, and cooking in kettles and clay pots over coals. Choose from a menu that features fresh seafood, meats, and plant-based dishes. So Primitive will be open for guests in the near future.
The starting price for a One Bedroom Water Retreat in Chapter Two starts from $3,560+++ in shoulder season, which includes all meals, transfers, experiences, drinks and spa treatments.
Soneva Jani is located on the island of Medhufaru within a 5.6-kilometre lagoon in the Noonu Atoll, and has uninterrupted ocean views in all directions.
The lagoon is 35 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport, and one hour by speedboat from Soneva Fushi. The recently opened Maafaru International Airport in the Noonu Atoll is just a 15-minute complimentary speedboat ride from Soneva Jani.
Inspired by the word for ‘wisdom’ in Sanskrit, Soneva Jani currently comprises 51 overwater villas and three island villas, with intuitive service provided by our Barefoot Butlers. The Chapter One Jetty has 24 one- to four-bedroom Water Retreats, while the Chapter Two Jetty has 27 one- to four-bedroom Water Reserves.
Five islands encircle the lagoon, each one with soft white sands and covered in rich tropical vegetation. Four of the five islands will remain untouched, making Soneva Jani the lowest density development in the Maldives.
Facilities on the island include the overwater Cinema Paradiso and restaurant, the new Soneva Wellness Centre that houses an Ayurvedic centre, more treatment and consultation rooms, a cross-functional fitness area, and retail shop. Also on the main island is the Eco Centro Waste-to-Wealth centre, organic gardens, Jungle Gym, tennis courts, and water sports champa.
Families seeking the ultimate summer escape in 2025 will find the perfect destination with Kuramathi and Campioni. These two exceptional partners offer a holiday experience where children can combine their love for football with the thrill of training alongside former Premier League players and UEFA coaches at breathtaking resorts. The exclusive Campioni football training camps cater to children aged 4-15 years, running across two weeks with three football legends. Liverpool and England star John Barnes MBE, accompanied by a UEFA coach, will lead sessions from July 28th to August 1st. Meanwhile, England icons Harry Redknapp and Stuart Pearce MBE will join from August 4th to August 8th, presenting an unparalleled opportunity for budding young footballers.
Campioni’s ethos, “Train Like A Pro,” offers a unique chance for children to be coached for two hours daily by some of English football’s most celebrated figures. These interactive and engaging sessions focus on fundamental skills while emphasising teamwork, strategy, and sportsmanship. With personalised guidance provided throughout, participants gain invaluable insights from the experts and create unforgettable memories.
While children hone their skills on the pitch, parents are free to unwind in a variety of ways. They can relax on the beach, explore the island, work out in the gym, visit the spa, or simply enjoy the vibrant energy of the training sessions from the sidelines.
The Campioni experience extends beyond football. Families are invited to participate in additional activities, such as welcome drinks at the start of the week, a mid-week parents’ game featuring the football legends, and an end-of-week medal and certificate presentation. These events ensure everyone in the family enjoys a dynamic and engaging holiday.
Kuramathi, a renowned Maldivian resort, serves as the ideal backdrop for this unique experience. Famous for its winding white sandbank and tropical jungle spanning the 1.8km island, the resort features 12 room categories, 12 restaurants, 6 bars, evening entertainment, and an array of facilities. Options range from one-bedroom Beach Villas and Two-Bedroom Beach Houses to overwater villas perched above the island’s turquoise lagoon, making it a perfect choice for families.
Off the field, Kuramathi’s complimentary Bageecha Kids’ Club caters to children aged 3-12 years with indoor and outdoor play areas, arts and crafts, splash pads, and a large swimming pool. Activities for older children include badminton, football, ping pong, baseball, and basketball. For couples seeking a romantic evening, extended kids’ club hours are available at an additional charge, alongside 24-hour babysitting for younger children.
The resort also offers unique environmental activities, such as eco-centre presentations, hermit crab trails, tree planting, and visits to hydroponics gardens, encouraging younger guests to learn about sustainable practices.
For adventurous families, Kuramathi provides a fully equipped dive school with multilingual instructors who guide participants through PADI and SSI courses, including options for children as young as eight. Guests can also explore the ocean through snorkelling safaris, turtle discovery trips, dolphin excursions, and semi-submarine tours. Water sports such as windsurfing, dinghy sailing, and catamaran lessons are available for children aged 12 and above.
While children are occupied, parents can relax at the spa or enjoy evening cocktails at the Champagne Loft or pool bars. Dining options include international cuisine at the buffet restaurant and specialty venues like The Reef, La Belle Vie, and Siam Garden. Nightlife on the island is vibrant, with live music, beachside movie nights, DJ performances, and more.
Kuramathi and Campioni promise a summer holiday filled with excitement, learning, and relaxation, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Sun Siyam Resorts has announced its receipt of the prestigious 2024 Target Taste Award for ‘Overseas Island Hotel Group.’ The accolade was presented during the ‘Target Taste’ awards ceremony in December 2024, held in Beijing. This event celebrated innovation and excellence within the luxury lifestyle industry.
The 2024 awards, themed ‘Revolutionise and Innovate,’ gathered leading brands and visionaries to highlight advancements in high-end hospitality, design, travel, and culinary arts. Sun Siyam Resorts was honoured for its commitment to redefining island luxury through exceptional guest experiences, sustainable practices, and innovative offerings.
Ashley Zhang, Regional Marketing & Communications Manager for China, accepted the award on behalf of the company, marking a significant milestone for the group.
Target Taste, a prominent Chinese luxury lifestyle magazine established in 2013, has consistently recognised industry pioneers. Its awards serve as a hallmark of innovation, elegance, and excellence in the luxury sector.
Claudia Klingbeil, Group Director of PR & Communications at Sun Siyam Resorts, stated: “This recognition is deeply meaningful to all of us at Sun Siyam Resorts. It reflects the passion, dedication, and heart that our team pours into creating memorable experiences for our guests, and this recognition fuels our commitment to constantly evolve and innovate.”
Step into a realm of unparalleled luxury and avant-garde elegance as SO/ Maldives prepares to celebrate Chinese New Year in high style from 28 January to 31 January 2025. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Maldives, this iconic celebration promises a curated experience of haute cuisine, holistic indulgence, and captivating festivities, transforming the holiday into a statement of sophistication.
Renowned for vibrant celebrations and rich heritage, this year’s Chinese New Year program offers an unforgettable lineup. Highlights include a spectacular light-up ceremony, spellbinding cultural performances, a chic DJ party, and elegant festive fairs, all steeped in glamour and refinement.
The theme for 2025, “Ushering Fortune and Unity for a Prosperous New Year,” emphasises joy, harmony, and good fortune. Anchored in multiculturalism and diversity, the festivities aim to bring families and couples together for a stylish celebration of new beginnings. Through vibrant events and a glamorous ambiance, SO/ Maldives sets the stage for a bright and prosperous year.
Guests can immerse themselves in a fusion of cultural traditions and tropical luxury. Highlights include the energetic Lion Dance, which winds through the resort, and thrilling adventures such as snorkelling in crystal-clear waters. Culinary experiences like the Asian Street Market and Beach BBQ showcase Chinese-inspired gourmet delights, while creative workshops such as Handmade Pottery and Canvas Bag Painting ensure magical moments for younger guests.
SO/ Maldives elevates the festive allure with dazzling red lantern installations and breathtaking dragon dance performances on pristine beaches. Villas adorned with bespoke Chinese New Year decor blend cultural heritage with contemporary chic, creating an atmosphere of bold sophistication.
“At SO/ Maldives, we reinvent luxury celebrations, merging vibrant traditions with a cutting-edge, fashion-forward perspective. This Chinese New Year, the experience will be as bold and dazzling as the Year of the Wood Snake itself,” says Olivier MOIESDELVAL, General Manager of SO/ Maldives.
SO/ Maldives invites guests to embrace the finer things in life, where every taste, touch, and moment sparkles with creativity and glamour.
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