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Soneva’s romantic island resorts: Dream setting for destination weddings

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Whether an intimate gathering on the sand or a spectacular ceremony in front of extended family and friends, Soneva’s award-winning island resorts in the Maldives are an idyllic setting for a dream destination wedding.

Each Soneva resort brings its own, inimitable charm to the celebrations: toes-in-the-sand luxury, surrounded by unspoiled nature at Soneva Fushi in the Maldives’ Baa Atoll; iconic over-water elegance amid a sparkling turquoise lagoon at Soneva Jani in the Maldives’ remote Noonu Atoll; and the freedom of sailing the Indian Ocean on the exquisite Soneva in Aqua luxury yacht.

Every Soneva wedding is utterly bespoke, tailored to ensure both the happy couple and their guests cherish every precious moment.

Soneva’s experienced wedding coordinators take care of every last detail, from personalised packages for brides, grooms and their guests, to delectable dining, one-of-a-kind experiences and luxurious stays in vast private villas.

Any size or scale of ceremony can be accommodated, from micro-weddings with just the happy couple, to a full resort buy-out offering complete privacy for the entire wedding party.

True to the Soneva mantra, ‘inspiring rare experiences’, each wedding is an unforgettable way to celebrate the start of newly-married bliss.

Every Soneva resort has a wealth of breath-taking locations to set the scene, on land, at sea, in the treetops or even under the waves. Barefoot vows on a private sandbank at Soneva Fushi. ‘I do,’ on the Soneva Jani jetty, with unending views over the lagoon. A declaration of love on the deck of Soneva in Aqua, bathed in the rays of the setting sun.

For even the most out-of-the-ordinary celebrations, Soneva can make dreams come true – whether scuba or freediving ceremonies in the clear blue ocean, celebrations under star-strewn skies at Soneva’s observatories, or home-movies and happy memories at Cinema Paradiso.

Soneva’s skilled culinary teams curate bespoke gastronomic experiences and wedding menus that cater to every taste and party size, from Champagne receptions to extravagant feasts. Each Soneva resort has a choice of stunning venues and pop-ups.

At Soneva Fushi, nine dining destinations and numerous culinary experiences include sumptuous spreads at the beach-side Mihiree Mitha or Sobah’s, with traditional Maldivian cuisine on a private island.

At Soneva Jani, the 11 venues include The Crabshack, named one of the ‘world’s most romantic restaurants’ by CNN, and the new Chapter Two dining destinations such as the picturesque Overseas by Mathias Dahlgren and So Wild by Diana Von Cranach, found in the resort’s organic gardens.

On Soneva in Aqua, the on-board sous chef will create a bespoke menu and magical set-ups on deck or on hidden beaches and deserted islands.

Across each Soneva resort, expansive private villas offer exceptional flexibility for wedding parties, whether guests wish to stay in individual properties, or together in a large private residence for an exclusive resort-within-a-resort feel.

At Soneva Fushi, 63 private island villas range from one to nine bedrooms, with direct beach access and verdant gardens, while eight Water Retreats offer uninterrupted horizon views.

Soneva Jani’s iconic overwater villas range from one to four bedrooms, and include 24 original Water Retreats and 27 new Chapter Two Water Reserves, alongside three vast two- to four-bedroom island hideaways.

On Soneva in Aqua, the exceptionally spacious two-bedroom yacht comfortably accommodates four adults and two children.

Because happy memories tell a story that last a lifetime, every wedding celebration is captured for eternity by the talented team of Digital Storytellers at each Soneva resort – from traditional wedding shoots to drone videography and remarkable underwater footage.

Surrounded by soft white sands, swaying palms and sapphire ocean, Soneva’s Maldives escapes are also the perfect honeymoon destination, filled with romance, indulgence and rare experiences.

Every honeymoon is personalised to newly-weds’ desires, whether enjoying a post-wedding floating breakfast served in their private pool, unwinding with a couples’ treatment at the spa, sipping on Champagne on a private sunset cruise, or glamping in a Bedouin tent on a private sandbank.

Soneva is a pioneering family of award-winning resorts in outstanding natural locations.

At Soneva Fushi, Soneva Jani and Soneva in Aqua in the Maldives, and Soneva Kiri in Thailand, true ‘luxury’ is defined by peace, time and space. Each day, guests are encouraged to discover the SLOW LIFE, reconnecting with themselves and the natural world through rare experiences that inspire and enthral.

Soneva has led the way for responsible tourism, combining a conscientious, proactive approach to sustainability with exquisite luxury and intuitive personalised service.

To view Soneva wedding brochure, visit Soneva Weddings.

Featured

Kuramathi Maldives announces private wellness programmes with Imron Zulfikar

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Kuramathi Maldives has announced the arrival of esteemed holistic wellness practitioner Imron Zulfikar, who will undertake an exclusive residency at the resort from 15 December 2025 to 3 January 2026. During this period, guests will have the opportunity to participate in bespoke wellness experiences crafted by a recognised expert in integrative health.

Throughout his residency, Imron will conduct a series of private wellness sessions designed to restore balance, promote renewal, and enhance long-term wellbeing. His practice brings together ancient therapeutic traditions and contemporary fitness science, resulting in personalised programmes that support harmony, mobility, and emotional resilience. Signature offerings include:

  • Watsu Water Healing Journey: A restorative treatment conducted in warm water, combining elements of shiatsu, massage, and gentle movement to release deep tension, soothe the nervous system, and foster a sense of tranquillity.
  • Chakra Balance Therapy: A holistic session that aligns mind and body through crystal healing, guided meditation, and calming massage techniques.
  • Meridian Deep Release Massage: A therapeutic blend of deep tissue massage and acupressure aimed at easing chronic tension, improving flexibility, and stimulating energy flow.
  • Accu Glow Facial: A rejuvenating facial incorporating acupuncture and customised skincare to activate collagen production, detoxify the skin, and enhance natural luminosity.
  • Oriental Slim Detox Massage: A treatment grounded in Traditional Chinese Medicine, combining acupuncture and massage to promote lymphatic drainage and support detoxification.

Imron is an accomplished wellness lifestyle coach and holistic fitness specialist with more than ten years of experience in acupuncture, tension release therapies, yoga, Pilates, and personal training. His integrative methodology nurtures physical alignment, emotional balance, and overall vitality.

He has worked with numerous luxury resorts and an impressive roster of high-profile clients, including Serena Williams, Emma Watson, Richard Branson, and members of the UAE Royal Family. Celebrated for his intuitive approach and refined technique, Richard Branson has previously referred to Imron as having “golden hands.”

Kuramathi Maldives looks forward to offering guests this exceptional opportunity to engage in transformative, individually tailored wellness experiences during Imron’s residency.

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Drink

Felice Capasso brings award-winning mixology to The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli this February

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The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort will host World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2025, Felice Capasso, for an exclusive Tastemaker Series collaboration from 4–5 February. The partnership further strengthens the resort’s position as a destination for discerning travellers seeking craftsmanship, cultural depth, and refined experiences.

Located on a private island in the Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives has established a contemporary interpretation of island glamour. Its signature villas include some of the most coveted accommodations in the Indian Ocean, notably the John Jacob Astor Estate—one of the Maldives’ largest overwater residences—and the tranquil, beachfront Caroline Astor Estate. Each estate offers generous living spaces, expansive pools, and panoramic views, reflecting the resort’s dedication to elevated, residential-style luxury.

Within this sophisticated environment, The Whale Bar—an iconic overwater structure—will serve as the setting for Capasso’s arrival. As evening falls, the venue will adopt a vibrant Latin-inspired ambience, where guests will enjoy family-style small plates, bespoke cocktails, and rare vintages on tap while the sunset illuminates the lagoon. In this atmospheric setting, Capasso will unveil an exclusive cocktail menu for his bar takeover, blending classical technique with modern creativity.

On the following day, the resort will host an intimate Masterclass led by Capasso, centred on rum. The session will explore the spirit’s history, its regional expressions, and the narrative approach that distinguishes exceptional mixology. His expertise—rooted in precision, intuition, and storytelling—offers guests a rare opportunity to engage with a leading figure in the global bar industry.

This collaboration forms part of the resort’s ongoing Tastemaker Series, which brings influential creators and innovators to the island. By welcoming talents such as Felice Capasso, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort continues to craft immersive, evocative experiences that embody the distinctive spirit of St. Regis.

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Drink

Sun Siyam Olhuveli unveils Milano, Olive Bar and Crust & Flame on Dream Island

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Sun Siyam Olhuveli has introduced three new dining and social venues on its Dream Island — Milano, Olive Bar, and Crust & Flame — each conceptualised by the award-winning Studio Sixty7. Together, the venues bring a contemporary expression of coastal European style to the Maldives, blending refined design, effortless island living, and a sense of community that positions Dream Island as the resort’s newest lifestyle and entertainment hub.

Milano – An Italian Soul with a Front-Row Kitchen

Milano celebrates the warmth and generosity of Italian dining, presented through a coastal aesthetic that feels both relaxed and refined. The open kitchen serves as the heart of the restaurant, where guests can watch chefs craft handmade pasta, simmer traditional sauces, and prepare wood-fired dishes. The experience is intimate and engaging, reflecting the sincerity of Italian cooking.

Studio Sixty7 designed the space with an olive-green palette, arched features, textured off-white plaster, linen drapery, and sculpted timber furnishings. Deep green crittall-style glazing adds a quiet elegance, while patterned floors create a gentle visual rhythm. As evening falls, woven pendant lights warm the room, making Milano ideal for leisurely lunches and romantic dinners. Every design detail balances Italian flair with Maldivian tranquillity.

Olive Bar – The New Entertainment Pulse

At the centre of Dream Island’s social energy, Olive Bar offers a refreshed take on family entertainment, hosting nightly performances from acoustic musicians and cultural acts to lively DJ sets. By day, it provides a relaxed lounge environment; by night, it transforms into a vibrant social hub.

The bar’s design embraces coastal openness, featuring timber shutters, adaptable lounge seating, abundant greenery, and natural textures that reflect Studio Sixty7’s craftsmanship-driven approach. Gentle ambient lighting completes the atmosphere, creating a welcoming setting for conversation, laughter, and shared experiences.

Crust & Flame – Casual, Beachside, and Comfort-Driven

Crust & Flame offers a relaxed beachside dining experience centred around artisanal brick-oven pizzas and contemporary light dishes. Its striking emerald-and-sage terrazzo pizza oven serves as the visual anchor of the venue, glowing subtly in natural light as chefs prepare fresh creations throughout the day.

Muted olive and white tiles, moss-toned upholstery, and dark timber seating create a coastal trattoria feel, while maintaining a distinctly Maldivian beach ambience — toes in the sand, ocean breeze drifting through the space, and a focus on simple, well-crafted comfort food.

Reflecting on the creative direction, Lee McNichol, Co-founder of Studio Sixty7, noted that the aim was to craft spaces that feel like a gentle exhale — warm, textured, softly lit, and subtly inspired by European coastal landscapes. Co-founder Jose Rivero added that the intention was to build venues that feel lived-in and soulful, where guests naturally settle into the experience rather than simply dine or watch a performance.

Hassan Adil, General Manager of Sun Siyam Olhuveli, commented: “Our vision for Dream Island was to create a place where guests immediately feel the rhythm of island life — relaxed, social, and full of positive energy. Milano, Olive Bar, and Crust & Flame each offer something distinct, yet together they form a cohesive atmosphere that encourages connection and enjoyment. It is Olhuveli at its most effortless and playful.”

With the launch of these venues, Dream Island evolves into a dynamic culinary and social destination where design, flavour, and ambience come together seamlessly. This development reflects Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s continued journey toward contemporary lifestyle hospitality, grounded in the warmth and authenticity of Maldivian service.

Sun Siyam Olhuveli now offers more than twenty restaurants and bars across its islands, ensuring an ever-diverse dining landscape shaped by creativity, global influence, and the joy of island living.

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