Featured
JLF Soneva Fushi to debut in Maldives in May 2022

Teamwork Arts, producer of the iconic annual Jaipur Literature Festival and its international JLF extension events, and world-renowned resorts operator Soneva, have partnered to launch the first-ever JLF Soneva Fushi in the Maldives.
Taking place from May 13 to 22, 2022, the arts and literary Festival will be held at the award-winning luxury resort, which is located within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
The Jaipur Literature Festival is held annually in the pink city of Jaipur in Rajasthan, India, with yearly iterations of JLF in London, Belfast, New York, Colorado, Houston, Adelaide, Toronto and Doha. Teamwork Arts believes in the spirit of community and the hope, strength and vitality that literature and knowledge give to people.
JLF’s international series, held across the world, has showcased the multilingual literary heritage of South Asia with the distinct flavour of its host regions, bringing together a diverse and engaged community of booklovers, thought leaders and influencers.
After global travel restrictions and lockdowns, JLF Soneva Fushi will be an opportunity to reconnect with the joys of live performances of art, music and literature against the backdrop of this idyllic island resort in the Indian Ocean, surrounded by pristine nature.
In keeping with JLF’s international programming vision, the Festival will reinforce South Asia’s unique literary heritage with a caravan of globally celebrated authors and thinkers taking part in a range of stimulating panels, workshops, music, poetry readings and film screenings.
Spread over 10 days and two weekends, events will be held at stunning locations across the island, with themes as varied as travel, fiction, food, art, wellness, climate change and the environment.
A truly bespoke experience, JLF Soneva Fushi will be a study in Slow Life, with morning yoga sessions, stimulating workshops, delectable international food and jaw-dropping sunsets against a languorous blue sea.
Sunjay Sudhir, High Commissioner of India to Maldives, said, “I am delighted that the first-ever edition of JLF Soneva Fushi Maldives will debut in this beautiful island nation soon. We believe JLF will provide an exceptional platform for a global audience to engage with India, its cultural and literary heritage as well as strengthen cultural and bilateral ties between India and the Maldives. Maldives will be the first country in India’s neighbourhood to find a place in JLF’s global footprint.”
Namita Gokhale, author and Festival Co-director, said, “JLF Soneva Fushi Maldives will be an inspirational journey where we will explore new horizons, celebrating the elements and sharing the power of words and ideas, of poetry and music.”
William Dalrymple, writer, historian and Festival Co-director, said, “This is JLF’s most exotic and pleasurable adventure yet. I can’t wait!”
Sanjoy K. Roy, Managing Director of Teamwork Arts, producer of the Jaipur Literature Festival, said, “We are delighted to partner with Soneva Fushi, which represents excellence in the world of experiential hospitality, in bringing JLF to the Maldives – with the best writers, thinkers, film-makers and thought leaders from across the world and India.”
Sonu Shivdasani, CEO and Joint Creative Director, Soneva, said, “We are really excited to be partnering with Teamwork Arts to bring JLF to Soneva Fushi. Together, we will bring authors and artists from all over the world to celebrate literature, music and art. Learning is a key component of our brand values and, with this Festival, Soneva offers all the attractions of a stunning Maldivian backdrop, while feeding the need for self-enrichment and cultural curiosity. We look forward to welcoming guests to this very special event, taking place over 10 days, full of truly unique sessions, events and workshops.”
A true advocate of literary and artistic traditions and democratic discourse, the Festival will bring together a diverse mix of the world’s greatest writers, thinkers, humanitarians, politicians, business leaders and entertainers on one stage to champion the freedom to express and engage in thoughtful debate and dialogue.
The list of eminent speakers released today includes Italian-American writer, André Aciman; Festival Co-director and award winning eminent author Namita Gokhale; celebrated author of the bestselling books The Silk Roads: A New History of the World, The First Crusade: The Call from the East and The New Silk Roads, Peter Frankopan; author, politician and former international civil servant Dr Shashi Tharoor; Indian columnist and novelist, Shobhaa De; and Festival Co-director, historian and celebrated author, William Dalrymple.
Sharing his thoughts, historian and writer Peter Frankopan said, “Climate and environmental change are the two biggest challenges that we face in the coming years and decades. Indeed, some believe that our survival as a species is dependent on preparing for and addressing these twin dangers. Soneva Fushi’s focus on sustainability and biodiversity has been its signature since it first opened. I can’t think of a more magical and appropriate setting to gather to share some invaluable lessons that history teaches about past periods of ecological and climate change – and how to learn from them.”
Novelist and columnist Shobhaa De said, “The magic of the Maldives will be enhanced many times over with the premier edition of the ‘World’s Biggest Lit Fest’, on its silver shores. This is bound to create a unique and soul-gratifying literary experience – with poetry readings under the stars, and intimate interactions with writers from across the world sharing their work on pristine beaches. I am hoping for a few underwater sessions as well! When a deep respect for the environment meets an equally deep respect for literature and the arts, one can look forward to an ‘out of the world’ event like no other.”
An ideal setting and host for JLF’s ninth landmark international extension, Soneva Fushi is the Maldives’ original barefoot hideaway, inspiring the imagination with striking beachfront villas and Water Retreats.
Everything about the resort feels otherworldly, from the crystal-clear turquoise ocean and dolphins at sunset to the delicious meals available at the resort’s multiple dining destinations.
Nature is nurtured, from the sustainable design and furnishings of the villas to the operations and Waste-to-Wealth Centre, all of which truly define the essence of ‘barefoot luxury’.
Along with its naturally remote location, Soneva Fushi has implemented stringent health and safety protocols to safeguard the wellbeing of all guests, with on-arrival PCR testing in the comfort of their own private villas. Following a negative test result, guests can relax and enjoy everything the resort has to offer, mask-free – a welcome return to pre-pandemic normality.
Soneva is offering an exclusive package to guests attending JLF Soneva Fushi.
Priced from USD 2,310 nett per night, per villa, it includes full access to the Festival sessions, events, activities and workshops, daily full board (with breakfast, lunch and dinner at selected restaurants), return shared seaplane transfers between Malé and Soneva Fushi, and complimentary full board stays for up to two children under seven (when staying with two paying adults).
All guests will also enjoy Soneva Fushi’s complimentary experiences, including a 24/7 Barefoot Butler, children’s activities at The Den, access to the renowned chocolate, ice cream and cheese parlours, and so much more.
JLF Soneva Fushi promises to deliver a dynamic programme encompassing readings, discussions, performances and culinary offerings through an exciting and many-hued Festival.
Stay tuned for detailed programme announcements in the coming weeks.
Featured
Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives announces grand opening

Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, is preparing for the launch of Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, a serene island retreat set to open on April 1st. To commemorate the opening, the resort is offering an exclusive introductory promotion, allowing guests to enjoy a luxurious escape with a range of benefits. The special offer includes Stay 4, Pay 3 and Stay 7, Pay 5 packages, along with exceptional upgrades available for a limited time.
Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives is the final addition to Centara’s collection of four distinctive properties in the Maldives, each tailored to different traveller preferences. The resort features 142 elegantly designed beachfront and overwater accommodations that harmonise with the surrounding natural beauty. This private island sanctuary seamlessly merges Thai-inspired hospitality with Maldivian charm, offering world-class dining across multiple restaurants and bars, as well as revitalising wellness experiences at the Spa Cenvaree Retreat.

The opening of this property also marks the completion of The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, a visionary project that aims to redefine experiential travel in the Maldives. As part of this exclusive multi-island destination, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives offers refined tranquility combined with immersive experiences. Guests staying at the resort also have access to the exciting water attractions and vibrant amenities of the neighbouring Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives.
Andrew Jansson, Cluster General Manager of Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives & Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming opening, stating, “From our picturesque beachfront and overwater villas to our exquisite dining and holistic wellness journeys, our team has worked tirelessly to ensure every aspect of this magnificent property exceeds expectations. We look forward to offering travellers a truly distinctive experience that captures the essence of both Centara’s signature warm hospitality and the beauty of this Maldivian paradise.”
To celebrate the grand opening, Centara Hotels & Resorts is inviting guests to take advantage of the Grand Island Indulgence: Exclusive Introductory Offer. Bookings made before June 30th, 2025, for stays between April 1st and October 15th, 2025, will qualify for the Stay 4, Pay 3 or Stay 7, Pay 5 packages. The offer also includes meal plan upgrades, complimentary sparkling wine and couples’ massages, exclusive access to The Club, a choice of an ocean excursion, and additional perks for CentaraThe1 members.
Featured
Embrace Maldives’ hidden summer with Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts

Beyond the well-known winter appeal of the Maldives lies an underrated gem—summer. From May to October, the islands transform into a sanctuary of intimate escapes, breathtaking marine encounters, and uninterrupted tranquillity, offering a side of the Maldives that remains one of travel’s best-kept secrets. This year, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts invites travellers to rediscover summer in the Maldives through curated experiences across its four island resorts, each tailored to romance, diving, adventure, and relaxation.
Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives provides an ideal setting for couples seeking a romantic summer retreat. Overwater bungalows offer a tranquil atmosphere, where the gentle lapping of waves sets a soothing rhythm for the days ahead. For those desiring an exclusive adults-only escape, Platinum Island offers elevated privacy and sophistication, creating the perfect environment for seclusion. As the sun sets, private sandbank dinners and candlelit beachside feasts transform ordinary moments into unforgettable memories.
For diving enthusiasts, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon offers an unparalleled underwater experience. Home to one of the Maldives’ most vibrant house reefs and in close proximity to iconic dive sites, Ellaidhoo provides exceptional opportunities for marine exploration. Divers can witness the Maldives’ marine life in its full splendour, and encounters with Tripod, the island’s beloved three-finned turtle, add a unique charm to every dive. Whether exploring the legendary house reef or venturing to sites such as Fish Head and Maaya Thila, every descent promises an awe-inspiring glimpse into the ocean’s wonders.
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives serves as the ultimate summer playground for thrill-seekers, where the ocean’s energy meets endless opportunities for adventure. Home to the world-renowned surf break, Pasta Point, the island attracts seasoned surfers eager to ride its perfectly peeling waves. Beyond surfing, the resort offers an array of exhilarating water sports, including jet skiing, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, and windsurfing, ensuring every adrenaline-seeker finds an activity suited to their passion. Whether carving through the waves or speeding across crystal-clear waters, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives encapsulates the thrill of ocean adventure.
Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives redefines summer living, blending stylish beachfront retreats with effortless indulgence. Days unfold at a leisurely pace, with sun-drenched afternoons by the infinity pool, gourmet dining that highlights the flavours of the sea, revitalising spa treatments, and sunrise yoga sessions designed to awaken the senses. Whether savouring exquisitely crafted dishes, indulging in personalised wellness experiences, or simply embracing the island’s serenity, Velifushi offers an escape where time slows down, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the art of island living.
Far from the winter crowds, summer in the Maldives reveals a season of untold beauty, where the rhythm of the waves sets the pace for unforgettable experiences. Whether diving into vibrant marine ecosystems, embracing barefoot luxury, or savoring moments of pure tranquillity, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives welcomes travellers to uncover one of the islands’ best-kept secrets
Cooking
Michelin magic in Maldives: Chef Wassim Hallal’s spring residency at Soneva Fushi

Danish chef Wassim Hallal will be hosting an exclusive residency at Soneva Fushi’s Flying Sauces from March 17 to May 12, 2025, bringing his two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Frederikshøj, to the world’s first fine dining zipline experience. As spring unfolds in the Maldives, guests will have the opportunity to soar along a 200-meter zipline route to reach an elevated dining platform, where breathtaking views, intuitive service, and Hallal’s masterful culinary creations await.
A pioneer of modern Nordic cuisine, Hallal’s passion for gastronomy has driven him to redefine fine dining in Denmark. His culinary journey began at a young age, leading him to refine his craft in some of Europe’s most prestigious kitchens. Under his leadership, Frederikshøj in Aarhus has earned two Michelin stars, recognized for its innovative approach, precision, and use of the finest seasonal ingredients.
During his highly anticipated spring residency at Soneva Fushi, Hallal will bring the essence of Frederikshøj to the Maldives, offering an unforgettable tasting experience that merges contemporary Nordic techniques with the island’s exceptional organic produce. His culinary philosophy pays tribute to the natural world, shaped by his environment and the evolving landscape of modern gastronomy. His style masterfully balances the refinement of French haute cuisine with the boundary-pushing creativity of New Nordic cooking, infused with global influences that drive his innovation.
At Frederikshøj, his commitment to excellence is evident in the meticulous selection of the finest local ingredients. A true culinary craftsman, he embraces experimentation, constantly redefining flavour, texture, and technique to create dishes that leave a lasting impression. Each plate serves as a canvas—an expression of creativity, refinement, and evolution—always seeking to push the boundaries of what is possible.
While in the Maldives, Hallal and his team will seamlessly blend Frederikshøj’s distinctive culinary ethos with Soneva Fushi’s organic seasonal produce, crafting a two-Michelin-starred dining experience designed to surprise, delight, and linger in the memories of guests long after the final course.
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