Featured
Soneva Villa Ownership offers buyers private escape in paradise
Hidden among dense jungle or perched over the azure waters of a remote private lagoon, Soneva’s luxurious Private Residences are a welcome retreat from the stresses of the outside world.
Introduced in 2011 in response to requests from returning guests, the pioneering Soneva Villa Ownership scheme made Soneva the first and only company to offer Maldivian real estate to foreign buyers.
Today, the portfolio includes a breath-taking selection of expansive private villas at Soneva’s award-winning Maldives properties in two of the world’s most unspoiled natural havens: Soneva Fushi in the Baa Atoll, and Soneva Jani in the Noonu Atoll.
A sanctuary of tranquillity, each villa has been positioned to ensure the utmost privacy and seclusion for owners and their guests.
Soneva Villa Ownership offers the rarest of luxuries in an uncertain world – that of time, space and peace to savour life’s simplest pleasures, whether feeling the sand between one’s toes, making precious memories with loved ones or disconnecting from the cycle of daily news.
Built to the same uncompromising sustainability criteria as Soneva’s world-leading resorts, the Private Residences are designed to have a minimum impact on the earth, existing in perfect harmony with their exquisite natural settings.
As a true home-away-from home, the villas’ bespoke interiors are personalised to owners’ exact needs, from the beautiful furniture crafted from reclaimed natural materials, to fun and playful touches such as children’s treehouses, dining towers or twisting waterslides into the private pool.
The castaway-luxe Private Residences at Soneva Fushi are found on the quiet private island of Kunfunadhoo within the unspoiled Baa Atoll, far from the usual tourist trail and part of a protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Ranging from a spacious one-bedroom pool villa, to a sprawling nine-bedroom mansion, each villa is set within its own extensive rainforest garden, just steps away from the soft sandy beach and crystal-clear waters.
The spectacular Villa 65 at Soneva Fushi is up for sale under the Soneva Villa Ownership programme.
The Three Bedroom Crusoe Suite with Pool is a beach-front property comprised of two duplex villas, the whitewashed walls and thatched roofing blend perfectly with the island setting.
The outdoor bathroom is where nature meets luxury. Then there is your pool and outdoor sitting area – perfect for days when all you want to do is relax in your sanctuary, enjoying the service of your Barefoot Butler.
The fully-equipped kitchen has ample space for food preparation, while the 10-seater dining table is ideal for gatherings and in-villa dining.
Located on the sunset side, this villa is close to the vibrant house reef and the diving school, and offers uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean.
Offered under contract with Soneva Fushi, upon purchase it will be upgraded at the resort’s expense into a spacious Four Bedroom Crusoe Suite with Pool. The modifications include extending the pool, adding sweeping terraces and an in-villa gym.
Centred around an ancient Banyan tree, the recently built Villa 43 Sunset Reserve is one of the largest, most luxurious private residences on the island.
With a maximum occupancy of 12 adults and four children, the 2,303 sqm (21,851 sqft), six-bedroom property is ideal for large and extended families, with expansive outside al fresco living space, including two swimming pools, Soneva’s signature open-air bathrooms and sunken seating areas.
A haven from the outside world, it also features its own private gum, spa and sauna facilities, as well as a library and a well-stocked cellar.
On the sunrise side of Soneva Fushi, the new, four-bedroom Villa 38 has a maximum occupancy of eight adults and four children.
Partly encircled by a vast private swimming pool, the 1,525 sqm (16,415 sqft) villa features open plan living spaces, terraces and balconies and large outdoor bathrooms, as well as a fully-equipped private gym, spa suite and steam and sauna facilities.
At Soneva Jani, one of the world’s lowest density resorts, there are two types of Private Residence to choose from: the iconic over-water villas, ranging from one to four bedrooms, or the vast three- or four-bedroom beachfront Island Reserves.
A tiny and remote archipelago in the beautiful Noonu Atoll, this tranquil enclave is surrounded on all sides by the sparkling turquoise waters of a 5.6 kilometre private lagoon.
The 1,226 sqm (13,197sq ft), four-bedroom over-water residence is the ultimate in over-water luxury. Perfectly private, it commands unmatched views over the lagoon, with its own private infinity pool and a slide that plunges straight into the ocean.
A wealth of living space, both inside and out, includes large al fresco terraces with plush daybeds and catamaran nets, light and airy bedrooms, a library, private fitness room and outdoor bathroom.
The unique, 1,956 sqm (21,054 sqft) Villa 34 is inspired by nature, with organic lines, sinuous curves and a sense of light and space throughout.
This huge, three-bedroom Island Reserve has a maximum occupancy of six adults and two children, with everything a family needs for a relaxing retreat from everyday life.
As well as extensive outdoor living and entertaining areas, including a large swimming pool, sunken dining and signature open-air bathrooms, the property also features a private wine vault, gym and sauna facilities, and a soaring dining tower with panoramic views across the horizon.
Since 2011, 31 Private Residences have been sold to buyers from across the globe, including 23 properties at Soneva Fushi and eight at Soneva Jani.
The most Soneva villa owners are based in the UK (four), followed by Russia (with three owners), then France, China, Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands and Switzerland (all with two owners), and Denmark, Canada, the UAE, Japan and Thailand (which all have one owner each).
The most popular villa size among investors has been three-bedroom properties.
The private villas and retreats in the Soneva Villa Ownership portfolio are sold on a renewable leasehold and fully maintained by the resort to ensure owners’ peace of mind, including repairs, fixtures and fittings, lighting, gardening and replacement furniture.
Private owners also enjoy exclusive benefits, including significant savings on food and beverages at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani (including private In Villa Dining), motorised water sports and flight transfers.
Soneva is a pioneering family of hospitality properties, offering holistic encounters in luxurious and inspiring environments – from world class resorts to outstanding natural locations.
Soneva Fushi, Soneva Jani and Soneva in Aqua in the Maldives, and Soneva Kiri in Thailand rebuke the traditional concept of luxury and instead promise the luxury of time, purity and solitude.
Every day, guests are encouraged to discover sandy feet, inspired minds and full hearts.
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.
Cooking
Island-inspired plant-based delights await this January at Nova Maldives
Each year, the number of people participating in Dry January continues to grow, with more individuals embracing this alcohol-free movement. Similarly, Veganuary is expected to reach new heights in 2025, surpassing the 25 million participants who took part this year, marking it as a record-breaking year for exploring plant-based foods.
Nova Maldives invites guests to celebrate Dry January and Veganuary 2025 with a variety of plant-based and alcohol-free offerings. These culinary experiences are designed to embody the wellness-focused and island-inspired lifestyle that Nova champions.
Throughout January, Nova’s expert mixologists will host interactive cocktail-making classes, providing guests with an opportunity to refine their skills while enjoying the resort’s tranquil surroundings.
Dining options during this special month include vibrant creations at Soul Kitchen and refreshing mocktails at Wink Bar. Featured dishes include the Maldivian Coconut & Vegetable Curry and Kopee Faiy Salad, both crafted from sustainably sourced local ingredients for an authentic taste of Maldivian culture. Among the alcohol-free beverages are the tropical Solis Sunset Cooler, inspired by the sunsets over South Ari Atoll, and the Cucumber Basil Fizz, a refreshing blend of basil and cucumber flavours.
For those wishing to recreate these dishes and drinks at home, Nova provides full recipes, encouraging culinary exploration inspired by island cuisine.
Featured Recipes:
- Maldivian Coconut and Vegetable Curry (Tharukaaree Riha): This traditional Maldivian dish combines fresh vegetables with creamy coconut milk for a hearty, plant-based meal. The recipe highlights local ingredients and supports sustainable farming practices.
- Kopee Faiy Salad (Kopi Fai): A refreshing side dish made with Kopee Faiy leaves, grated coconut, lime juice, and salt. Simple to prepare, this salad is a burst of freshness and complements any meal perfectly.
- Grilled Eggplant and Tomato Stack with Herb Pesto: Enhanced with crispy slices of fried breadfruit, this dish combines the savoury flavours of grilled vegetables with a homemade herb pesto, offering a nutritious and satisfying option.
Signature Mocktails:
- Solis Sunset Cooler: A tropical blend of passion fruit juice, lime, and coconut water, topped with soda for a refreshing finish.
- Cucumber Basil Fizz: A vibrant mix of fresh cucumber and lemon juices with basil syrup, creating an invigorating beverage.
General Manager Abdulla Aboobakuru emphasises Nova’s commitment to showcasing authentic Maldivian cuisine, “At Nova, we’re passionate about presenting dishes rich in fresh, plant-based ingredients. With the growing global trend toward mindful eating and health-conscious choices, our new recipes not only highlight local produce such as coconuts, spices, and tropical fruits but also cater to those seeking sustainable and nourishing dining options.”
Celebration
Self-love and serenity: The Nautilus Maldives’ Valentine’s Day experience redefined
In 2025, The Nautilus Maldives, an award-winning ultra-luxury private island hideaway, invites guests to celebrate Valentine’s Day as a sanctuary for the soul. This year’s celebration transcends traditional notions of romantic love, guiding visitors on a transformative journey of self-love and personal well-being. Set amidst untouched beauty and profound serenity, The Nautilus reimagines love as a connection that begins within, forming the foundation for relationships to flourish with greater depth and meaning.
This Valentine’s Day, The Nautilus emphasises the importance of self-love. Solasta Spa’s exclusive Valentine’s offerings are thoughtfully curated to inspire moments of self-discovery, renewal, and reconnection with both oneself and loved ones. Holistic psychotherapist and life coach Lucía Garcia-Giurgiu, based in New York, highlights the philosophy behind these offerings: “The most important relationship we have is the one we have with ourselves.” In alignment with this belief, The Nautilus encourages guests to explore their personal passions and engage in activities that inspire them, either individually or with a partner.
For those embarking on a personal journey, the Aromatherapy Journey provides a sensory escape that enhances physical and mental well-being. The Four-Hand Synchronised Massage, performed by two therapists in perfect harmony, offers a deeply restorative experience. Couples are invited to join a Self-Care Masterclass, where Solasta Spa’s skilled therapists teach gentle massage techniques for partners to practice on one another. Each couple receives a curated self-care kit—including essential oils, massage oil, and a soothing scrub—enabling them to continue their wellness journey at home.
Among the tailored Valentine’s experiences is a Synchronised Yoga session, where couples are guided through partner-based poses by a skilled instructor, fostering physical closeness and trust. Alternatively, guided meditation sessions focusing on gratitude and presence include synchronised breathing exercises and the calming resonance of Tibetan singing bowls, enhancing connection and mindfulness.
For those drawn to creative pursuits, private art workshops offer a chance to bond through artistic expression. Nature lovers may find peace during a guided barefoot walking meditation, immersing themselves in the island’s pristine landscapes for a grounding and serene experience.
Through these curated experiences, Solasta Spa provides a space where mutual respect and appreciation flourish, celebrating each partner’s individuality and the unique qualities they bring to the relationship. By embracing these differences as strengths, couples can deepen their connection, cultivate appreciation, and nurture a love that grows from within.
As twilight falls over The Nautilus, couples are invited to embark on romantic dining experiences designed to rekindle connection and shared joy. The Secluded Sandbank Journey offers a private sunset cocktail, accompanied by the gentle serenade of a singer, followed by a magical five-course dinner under the stars. Guests can toast with champagne and awaken to a floating breakfast at sunrise, creating an intimate moment to begin the new day.
For those seeking beachside elegance, Thyme Beach hosts a Gourmet Dinner featuring a five-course menu paired with champagne. This experience is followed by breakfast served in the comfort of the guests’ house or residence the next morning. At Zeytoun, the Champagne Dinner showcases Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in an enchanting oceanside setting, complete with bespoke turndown touches to conclude the evening. Each culinary journey celebrates connection, blending gastronomic artistry with moments of rediscovered love, creating memories to be cherished long after the evening fades.
Whether guests seek a retreat for self-reconnection or a sanctuary to rediscover love with a partner, The Nautilus offers an experience that transcends the ordinary. Each moment is thoughtfully crafted to honour individuality and connection, inviting visitors to begin 2025 with a renewed sense of meaning. At The Nautilus, every experience is designed to reflect the uniqueness of each love story, leaving lasting memories for the year ahead and beyond.
Featured
Worldwide Kids accreditation highlights Dhigali Maldives’ commitment to exceptional childcare
Dhigali Maldives has announced that its “Play” Kids Club has been accredited by Worldwide Kids, becoming one of only nine such facilities in the Maldives. This recognition underscores Dhigali’s commitment to providing high-quality and inclusive childcare services.
Christian Szabo, the General Manager of Dhigali Maldives, described the accreditation as a significant milestone, emphasising that it affirms the resort’s dedication to offering exceptional and inclusive childcare programs. He expressed pride in joining a network that shares the vision of nurturing young minds.
The “Play” Kids Club caters to children aged 4-12, providing a vibrant array of activities facilitated by certified childcare professionals. This accreditation further solidifies Dhigali’s focus on delivering exceptional family experiences in a safe and stimulating environment.
With this accomplishment, Dhigali Maldives continues to set a high standard for family-friendly luxury, ensuring parents can relax with the confidence that their children are engaged in fun and enriching activities during their stay.
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