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Soneva illuminates rare guest experiences with sparkling Soneva Stars calendar

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
Featured
Unwind, dine and play: multi-island summer at CROSSROADS Maldives

This summer, CROSSROADS Maldives is extending an invitation to travellers to explore its unique multi-island destination. Situated just 20 minutes by speedboat from Malé, the destination encompasses a collection of resorts, dining venues, and leisure activities suited to a wide range of guests.
A special summer offer is now available until 31 August 2025 at SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, and Hard Rock Hotel Maldives. Tailored for residents and expatriates, the package features room rates from just USD 249 nett per night, inclusive of daily breakfast, return speedboat transfers for two, and access to the facilities of both resorts. Guests may also enhance their stay with a dining plan, which unlocks access to 14 distinctive restaurants across the destination. Additionally, Hard Rock Cafe Maldives is currently showcasing its limited-time World Burger Tour, featuring highlights such as the Island Spiced Coconut & Curry Burger.
For those with limited time, the SAii Beach Club provides convenient day packages that include use of the pool, beachside relaxation, refreshing cocktails, and house-made gelato. As the sun sets, guests can choose from a variety of dining options, including globally inspired dishes at Terra & Mar or Thai-Italian fusion at Mr. Tomyam, with live DJ entertainment to complete the evening.
Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the two GZ19 padel tennis courts available on-site, catering to players of all levels and offering a lively way to stay active.
Meanwhile, the SAii Spa – one of the few double-storey spas in the Maldives – offers rejuvenating treatments crafted to nourish mind, body, and soul, with therapies incorporating locally sourced organic ingredients.
Whether travelling as a couple, family, or group of friends, CROSSROADS Maldives promises an unforgettable summer escape.
Featured
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa unveils stylish new Beach Villas with Pool

With twice the outdoor space, an extended pool, a reimagined layout, and a fresh, airy design palette, the new Beach Villas with Pool at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa represent a remarkable transformation from their former Beach Bungalow form. The rich, dark wood tones and enclosed garden settings have been replaced with lighter, brighter, more spacious and refined options tailored for couples, honeymooners, and young families alike.
Set just steps from the shoreline and offering picturesque views of the ocean, lagoon, and sunrise, each Beach Villa accommodates up to three adults or two adults and two children under the age of 12. The interior living space now spans 70 square metres (753.5 sq. ft.), while outdoor areas have been extended to 285 square metres (3,068 sq. ft.).
Commenting on the culmination of the resort’s ongoing regeneration project, General Manager Didier Jardin remarked, “Kuda Huraa has long served as a sanctuary for those in search of a cosy Maldivian home-away-from-home. However, we recognised that our former bungalows posed limitations in layout, natural light and space. Our new Beach Villas encapsulate the soul of the island, blending comfort, care and the timeless magic of the Maldives into one seamless experience.”
Key highlights of the new Beach Villas with Pool include:
- A Fresh and Inviting Aesthetic: The former darker colour scheme has been replaced with a lighter, more vibrant palette, featuring subtle sea- and sun-inspired tones of teal, turquoise, and tangerine.
- Redesigned Interior Layout: A more functional layout begins with a bright porch leading into a light-filled en suite bedroom, complete with a study and dining area. A window-side daybed now offers serene ocean views, while a reconfigured walk-in wardrobe allows direct access to the bathroom. All villas include an outdoor shower garden, and select units feature additional family rooms.
- Enhanced Outdoor Living: The previous plunge pool has been expanded to a 36-square-metre (388 sq. ft.) swimming pool, optimally positioned to showcase the ocean vistas. A new pergola fitted with a custom-designed round swing adds an Instagram-ready spot for lounging, dining, or simply basking in the sun.
- Stylish Architecture and Interiors: Contemporary furnishings, including iconic pieces such as the B&B Italia armchair, elevate the visual appeal. A sophisticated mix of contrasting materials and textures, soft organic lines, and elegant architectural curves blend each villa harmoniously into its natural surroundings.
Each Beach Villa includes a host of complimentary features, such as daily fresh fruit, Kuda Spring bottled water, tea and coffee, twice-daily housekeeping with evening turndown, and beach essentials for children aged 12 and under.
For guests seeking a seamless and indulgent island retreat, the Bed & Breakfast package is available, offering a lavish buffet breakfast each morning at Café Huraa. This is included for two guests per bedroom (or four in a family villa or bungalow, and for all guests in suites). The package is available for stays up to 20 December 2026, subject to availability.
Featured
Barceló Nasandhura celebrates World Chocolate Day with sweet surprises in Malé

This July, Barceló Nasandhura is offering guests a taste of the sweeter side of life through a series of limited-time dessert experiences in the heart of Malé.
In celebration of World Chocolate Day, the hotel hosted a Chocolate Indulgence Station in the Nasandhura Lobby on 7th July. Held from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, the event featured handcrafted chocolate desserts and tastings led by Head Pastry Chef Mohammed, a certified Continental Judge in Pastry Arts. The occasion attracted a delightful mix of in-house guests and walk-in visitors, who also enjoyed a specially curated photo setup and the opportunity to purchase exclusive, limited-edition treats.
Additionally, from 4th to 7th July, a dedicated Chocolate Dessert Station was presented at the Oivaru dinner buffet, located on the hotel’s third floor, offering a decadent addition to the evening dining experience.
To conclude the month’s celebrations, guests will be able to enjoy a 10% discount on all ice creams at Alimas Coffee Lounge from 20th to 26th July. Featuring house-made flavours, this offering provides the ideal way to cool off and indulge during the warm island afternoons.
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