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Soneva illuminates rare guest experiences with sparkling Soneva Stars calendar

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Soneva, the world-leading luxury resorts operator, has announced a sparkling line-up of Soneva Stars for October and November.

This ever-changing calendar across Soneva’s award-winning resorts in the Maldives and Thailand inspires a ‘lifetime of rare experiences’ for guests, welcoming an eclectic array of world-renowned chefs, sporting heroes, wellness specialists, artists and so much more.

The year-round programme ensures that every stay at Soneva is not only unique, but also inspiring and transformative, too – whether its intimate meals prepared by the world’s most acclaimed restaurateurs; holistic wellness sessions with leading therapists and healers; sports coaching from world-class players; or insightful talks by eminent experts and thought-leaders.

This autumn, Soneva’s kitchens will host some of the world’s finest culinary talents.

Esben Holmboe Bang, head chef of the three Michelin-starred Maaemo in Norway, will grace Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani’s intimate chefs’ tables between October 2 and 9. Known for his bold cooking style, he uses entirely organic, biodynamic, or wild produce that distils the essence of Norway’s dramatic landscape.

Jarno Eggen, chef and owner of Holland’s two Michelin-starred De Groene Lantaarn, will be at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani from October 7 to 22.

Teresa Gutiérrez, head chef of the all-women team at Azafrán in La Mancha, Spain, will be at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani from October 15 to 25. Working with the finest regional ingredients such as Manchego cheese and locally grown mushrooms, her restaurant has been awarded one Sol by Spain’s prestigious Repsol Guide, as well as a Bib Gourmand from Michelin.

The UK’s Michael Wignall, known for his pursuit of perfection in flavour, texture and appearance, will be showcasing his complex culinary craftmanship at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani from October 22 to 28.

During the Diwali holidays, Chef Asma Khan, who stars in the latest series of Netflix’s Chef’s Table and whose restaurant Darjeeling Express was named by the Michelin Guide as one of the UK’s finest Indian dining destinations, will be at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani from October 30 to November 7.

Mumbai’s Vicky Ratnani, the chef, cookbook author and TV presenter also known as the ‘gastronaut’, will be at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani from October 30 to November 14.

Martin Bruhn, the executive chef behind Grace restaurant, the A-list favourite in West Berlin, will be at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani between November 10 and 25.

Thomas Rode Andersen, the acclaimed chef and functional lifestyle coach, will be hosting exclusive dinners at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani from November 23 to December 4.

From the world of sport and fitness, tennis legend Jonas Björkman will be making a welcome return to Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani from October 20 to 30. The former world number one doubles, and number four singles champion will be offering one-to-one coaching for guests wanting to improve their game.

Also returning to Soneva Fushi is football star Mikael Silvestre, who will be running his popular children’s football camp from October 15 to 24.

Former Swedish international footballer, Jesper Blomqvist, who won more than 30 caps for his country, as well as playing for Manchester United and IFK Göteborg, will be at Soneva Jani from October 22 to 30.

Master fitness trainer Johnny Owen will be at Soneva Jani until October 15, before taking up a winter residency at Soneva Fushi until January 14, 2022. With an intuitive coaching style that is intentional, attentive and motivational, he helps guests expand their wellbeing practices and break through pre-conceived boundaries.

World-renowned healers, therapists and wellness specialists will also be sharing their knowledge and experience with Soneva’s guests this autumn.

Yoga specialist Hitesh Kumar will be at Soneva Jani until October 31.

Stephen Kirwin, the acclaimed neuromuscular and orthopaedic sports massage therapist who is also a 12-time Ironman, will be working with guests at Soneva Jani from October 1 to November 30.

Roger J. Moore, named in Tatler’s Best of the Best guide, will be sharing his unique practice that combines science, medicine, Eastern wellness philosophies, psychotherapeutics and spirituality with guests at Soneva Jani from October 22 to December 20.

Soneva Art and Glass, the Maldives’ only hot glass studio at Soneva Fushi, will welcome Danish artist Trine Drivsholm for a residency between October 20 and November 10. She is known for her exquisite glass sculptures with perfectly balanced form and wonderfully tactile properties.

Astronomer and astrophysicist Dr Becky Smethurst will be leading guests on a voyage of discovery across the night skies and hosting fascinating talks on space and the stars at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani – she will be at the resorts from October 21 to 31.

Swedish star Måns Zelmerlöw, the multi-hyphenate pop singer, songwriter, television presenter and former Eurovision winner, will be at Soneva Fushi from October 11 to 28.

Also hailing from Sweden, the renowned television host and yoga expert Kristin Kaspersen will be at Soneva Fushi from October 30 to November 6. During her stay, she will be hosting a series of morning yoga classes for guests as well as sharing an insight into her wellness philosophy.

Then during the half term holidays from October 18 to 25, Oppidan Education will be returning to Soneva Fushi. The UK-based mentoring firm works with children and teens to support their learning outside of the classroom and help them reach their fullest potential – Oppidan’s experts will be hosting one-on-one mentoring sessions, as well as complimentary daily activities that combine learning and fun at The Den.

Founded by Sonu and Eva Shivdasani in 1995, Soneva is a global collection of award-winning sustainable resorts.

The idyllic island settings combine exquisite hospitality with a SLOW LIFE philosophy that treads lightly on the earth.

Through rare, one-of-a-kind experiences, guests are invited to reconnect with the beauty of nature and embrace the luxury of time and space.

To see the full Soneva Stars calendar, visit www.soneva.com/events

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From wellness to culture: Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts embodies new era of Maldivian travel

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The Maldives continues to strengthen its position as one of the world’s premier island destinations, achieving global acclaim while maintaining steady growth in visitor arrivals. The country was recently named Best Beach Destination at the World Tourism Awards 2025 in Brussels and ranked among the Top Ten Countries for Food in the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2025.

According to the Ministry of Tourism, the Maldives recorded over 1.7 million tourist arrivals as of 21 October 2025 — a 10% year-on-year increase. The destination is on course to meet its ambitious target of 2.3 million arrivals by year-end, with the final quarter expected to bring the highest influx of visitors as the nation enters its peak travel season.

Sustained demand from key markets including India, China, Russia, and the United Kingdom, alongside rising interest from the Middle East and Europe, continues to fuel this growth. The trend reflects a broader global shift towards experience-led travel, where visitors seek meaningful, immersive stays rather than conventional leisure holidays.

As arrival numbers climb, the focus within the Maldives tourism industry is evolving from volume to value. Hospitality brands are responding by offering experiences that highlight authenticity, sustainability, and cultural engagement. Among them, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts — which operates four properties across the Maldives — is redefining the concept of island travel through wellness, cuisine, and culture.

The brand’s approach extends beyond accommodation, curating distinctive experiences that deepen the guest journey. From spa rituals rooted in Asian wellness traditions at Mandara Spa and Chavana Spa to private beachfront dinners celebrating the region’s rich culinary heritage, each stay is designed to be both restorative and enriching. Guests who book directly also receive exclusive credits and tailored experiences, reinforcing the Maldives’ growing appeal as a destination for conscious and immersive travel.

This direction mirrors the Maldives’ evolving tourism strategy, which prioritises authenticity and quality over volume. As the nation edges closer to another record-breaking year, its success lies not only in the number of arrivals but in its ability to offer enduring, high-calibre experiences — a vision shared by Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts as it continues to shape the future of island hospitality across the region.

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Centara Maldives unveils bespoke National Day escapes for UAE holidaymakers

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As one of the most notable occasions in the GCC calendar, UAE National Day presents the perfect opportunity to plan a dream island getaway at one of Centara Hotels & Resorts’ Maldivian destinations. Travellers can discover their own piece of paradise across four distinctive properties: Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives, and Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection. Each resort offers a seamless blend of elegance, comfort, island activities, and rejuvenating spa experiences — the ideal way to celebrate the spirit of the occasion with a tropical touch.

Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives

Located a short speedboat ride from Malé International Airport, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives provides an elegant island retreat ideal for celebrating special moments with family and friends. The resort features a range of overwater villas and beachfront residences, each complete with a private pool, jacuzzi, or both — offering guests an opportunity to truly unwind and disconnect from the outside world.

Set within The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, the resort offers an array of experiences, from exciting water sports and excursions to restorative wellness treatments at the tranquil SPA Cenvaree Retreat. Dining choices include international buffets at The Gallery, modern Mediterranean flavours at Bluefin, and light bites at Coco Drift’s swim-up bar. Guests can also toast to the occasion with a refreshing drink at Sunset Social.

In celebration of UAE National Day, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives invites guests to reconnect with loved ones through an exclusive stay package. Guests booking before 15 December for stays until 20 December can enjoy four nights for the price of three or seven nights for the price of five, with complimentary round-trip transfers included.

Additional benefits include:

  • Upgrade to the Half Board Plus meal plan when booking a Room with Breakfast
  • Club access
  • Complimentary sparkling beverage at Sunset Social on the first evening
  • One complimentary couples’ treatment at SPA Cenvaree Retreat
  • A 15% discount and triple points for CentaraThe1 members

Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives

Nestled in the scenic North Malé Atoll, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives offers a vibrant, underwater world-themed escape perfect for families. The resort combines play and relaxation through its lazy river, splash zones, and water playgrounds, alongside the acclaimed SPA Cenvaree, a Candy Spa for children, and a lively kids’ club. Accommodation includes oceanfront and overwater villas, complemented by diverse dining experiences.

Families can enjoy the ultimate island holiday where children stay, play, and dine for free on all stays before 15 December. Perfect for the UAE National Day long weekend, the offer includes:

  • Special room rates
  • Complimentary round-trip speedboat transfers
  • Free stays and meals for up to two children aged 11 and under
  • A 15% discount and triple points for CentaraThe1 members

Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives

For couples and solo travellers seeking tranquillity, Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives offers an adults-only sanctuary designed for relaxation and connection. Guests can wake to panoramic sea views from oceanfront or overwater villas with direct lagoon access. The resort features world-class dining, a yoga pavilion, award-winning SPA Cenvaree, and water sports including windsurfing, parasailing, and snorkelling.

To mark UAE National Day, guests can take advantage of 30% off all villas (and 45% off for CentaraThe1 members), along with 50% off transfers for stays of two to four nights. The package also includes:

  • Sparkling beverage and fresh fruit upon arrival in overwater villas
  • A three-course poolside dinner under the stars for Half Board Plus guests and above
  • Buy-one-get-one-free spa treatments
  • 20% discount on food and beverages
  • 10% off water sports and excursions
  • Complimentary snorkelling and kayaking equipment

Bookings and stays are valid until 10 January 2026.

Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection

Set amidst breathtaking ocean views and a UNESCO-protected marine reserve, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection caters to adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Home to an award-winning house reef and several renowned dive sites, guests can spend their days exploring coral reefs or discovering a historic shipwreck, followed by spa treatments and gourmet dining.

Guests can enjoy 45% off flexible rates for CentaraThe1 members and 30% off for non-members, along with 30% off seaplane transfers for stays of two to six nights until 10 January 2026.

The offer includes:

  • Handmade chocolates and tropical fruit upon arrival in overwater or pool villas
  • A complimentary picnic lunch for families or a private beach dinner for couples (Half Board Plus and above)
  • Buy-one-get-one-free spa treatments
  • Complimentary stays and meals for children aged six and under
  • 20% discount on à la carte dining and floating breakfasts (Club Pool Villas only)
  • 10% discount on water sports and excursions
  • Complimentary snorkelling gear and kayak use

For more information or reservations, guests can visit Centara Hotels & Resorts and explore exclusive UAE National Day offers available across all Maldivian properties.

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Holistic journeys at One&Only Reethi Rah: Year of global wellness expertise

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One&Only Reethi Rah invites guests to continue their wellness journey at the renowned One&Only Spa, which has recently received a prestigious five-star rating from the Forbes Travel Guide — the first and only spa in the Maldives to earn this recognition. Surrounded by tropical greenery, the spa offers a tranquil retreat where ancient healing practices meet modern techniques, providing tailored treatments that promote lasting wellbeing.

Throughout the year, One&Only Reethi Rah has hosted leading international wellness practitioners, and the remainder of 2025 will feature an inspiring series of experiences guided by acclaimed experts. From holistic therapies and Ayurveda to Pilates, yoga, Barre, and CrossFit, each visiting specialist brings unique expertise and methodology to the island, delivering highly personalised sessions designed around each guest’s individual needs.

Beginning in October, Ayurveda specialist Dr Shreejit Ghadigaonkar will offer personalised consultations and treatments based on one of the world’s oldest healing systems, using herbal remedies, massage, and holistic therapies to restore balance. During the same period, Shannon Fenton, a Pilates and yoga instructor, will lead mindful movement sessions to enhance posture, body awareness, and overall wellbeing.

In November, bespoke fitness coach Nicky Holender will introduce tailored programmes focused on strength, endurance, and motivation, while holistic therapist Darya Gudkova will offer deeply restorative treatments combining Eastern traditions with a contemporary understanding of anatomy and psychology.

The season will continue into December and January with Sanam Heravi, a STOTT-certified Barre specialist, whose sessions use intelligent movement to support rehabilitation and life transitions. Guests seeking high-intensity training will be able to train with Zubaid Toefy, a CrossFit coach with a background in Muay Thai and Olympic weightlifting, known for his dynamic and disciplined approach.

Each visiting practitioner contributes distinct expertise to the spa’s offerings, enabling guests to explore individual paths towards vitality, clarity, and inner balance 

Whether guests are beginning a new wellness journey or deepening established rituals, the One&Only Spa provides a setting for intentional transformation. From sunrise yoga sessions to deeply restorative treatments, every moment is designed to strengthen the connection between mind, body, and nature within the serene environment of the Maldives.

For guests seeking advanced skincare, the spa also presents a curated selection of facial treatments that combine cutting-edge technology with high-performance formulations. Through partnerships with globally renowned brands such as Augustinus Bader, the spa offers rejuvenating therapies that leave the skin feeling nourished, firm, and radiant.

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