Featured
Soneva partners with iChild to introduce free experiential eco-learning resources for UK classrooms, schooling at home
Bringing the magic of the Maldives and the Soneva Academy into UK classrooms: sustainable resort brand Soneva have partnered with iChild to support the KS2 and KS3 science and geography curriculum. Each lesson has an editable PowerPoint classroom presentation with spectacular photography, animations and video clips, while accompanying teachers’ notes provide useful guidance and supporting resources.
Engaging with the Environment
Since its launch 26 years ago, Soneva has been at the forefront of the Maldives’ effort to create a more sustainable future, in the face of climate change. Through initiatives such as eliminating single-use plastics, moving towards a zero-waste philosophy, using solar power and reducing its carbon footprint, preserving the Maldives’ native biodiversity is at the heart of Soneva’s Slow Life purpose. The aim of the environmental education from the Soneva Academy is to inspire the next generation to conserve and protect the planet for the future.
Magic of the Maldives and Soneva Academy in the classroom
iChild and Soneva Academy will provide free resources to support KS2 and KS3 science and geography. Teachers and parents will have access to three real-world lessons: Explore the Coral Reefs, Plastic in our Lives and Mosquitoes.
- Lesson 1, Explore the Coral Reefs: Students will explore the coral reefs in the Maldives and discover their importance and the threats they face. They will also see how Soneva is setting up the world’s biggest coral restoration project on Soneva Fushi. School’s will also have the opportunity to adopt a coral nursery structure and will receive updates throughout the year.
- Lesson 2, Mosquitoes: Soneva has tackled the problem of mosquitoes, eliminated insecticides and increased bio-diversity in the process. In this fascinating lesson, students will gain a full understanding of one of the deadliest animals on earth.
- Lesson 3, Plastic in our Lives: Students will learn about single-use plastic and its negative impact on the environment. Plus, they will learn about the zero-waste initiatives at Soneva Fushi and how they can adopt these initiatives at home.
Special offer from Soneva and iChild
They will also extend a special offer code to parents, teachers and their school community to book a Soneva holiday and receive one complimentary Soneva Academy course per child. As part of the offer, families will enjoy complimentary daily breakfast, unlimited access to the cheese and chocolate rooms, snorkelling, movie screenings at Cinema Paradiso and one signature Soneva experience during their stay.
Haven of wonder and adventure for young guests
Soneva Jani and Soneva Fushi in the Maldives are a haven of wonder and adventure for young guests and their families, where rare experiences and enthralling activities take place in awe-inspiring natural surroundings. From the Den, which is the largest children’s club (for under 12s) in the Maldives and South Asia, through to the Soneva Academy’s educational courses (for teens), with unforgettable hands-on experiences, which will add an exciting new dimension to children’s schooling.
Founded in 1995, Soneva is an award-winning sustainable luxury resorts operator. 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, unforgettable experiences that inspire and enthral.
Soneva is a pioneer for responsible tourism, combining a conscientious, proactive approach to sustainability with exquisite luxury and intuitive personalised service. Carbon neutral since 2012, Soneva launched its Total Impact Assessment in 2016, a first for the hospitality industry, measuring its social and environmental impacts. A mandatory 2% environmental levy is added to every Soneva stay, with proceeds going towards the not-for-profit Soneva Foundation to offset both direct and indirect carbon emissions from resort activities and guest flights. The Foundation funds a range of global projects that have a positive environmental, social and economic impact.
Awards
Niyama Private Islands named one of the best by Condé Nast Traveler
Niyama Private Islands Maldives has once again been recognised for its uniqueness, exclusivity, and laid-back luxury, being named one of the ‘Best Resorts in the Indian Ocean’ at this year’s Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.
Set against the incomparable beauty of the Maldives, Niyama Private Islands offers a seductive and unique blend of luxury and adventure. Beyond its world-class accommodations, culinary offerings, and spa experiences, it provides an escape into the surreal across its twin islands, Chill and Play. Guests are invited to craft their own extraordinary experiences, from frolicking in the treetops to partying underwater, and zooming across the ocean with a Seabob, jetpacking, and surfing just offshore.
This award reflects Niyama’s dedication to creating unforgettable memories for its guests through bespoke services and thoughtful touches that exceed the expectations of even the most discerning travelers.
General Manager Hafidh Al Busaidy expressed the team’s gratitude, stating, “We are deeply honoured to receive this accolade from the esteemed readers of Condé Nast Traveler. It is recognition of our constant striving for excellence and our commitment to providing guests with uniquely crafted experiences. We thank the readers, our guests, partners, and our Niyama family for their unwavering support. And we promise to continue to elevate every stay with us, making each even more memorable than the last.”
Celebration
Magical Halloween fun for kids at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort invites families to experience a captivating Halloween celebration filled with mystery and excitement. On October 31, 2024, the resort’s Vommuli House will be transformed into a magical setting, offering a full day of enchanting activities tailored for young adventurers aged 4-12.
Children will engage their creativity through activities like eerie Mummy Crafting and an exhilarating Halloween Decoration Hunt. The excitement continues as kids enjoy breaking open the Monster Piñata, which releases candy and surprises. For budding artists, the Spoo-tacular Face Painting sessions will transform participants into their favourite ghouls and ghosts, while the Ghostly Gathering will provide a whimsical, mystical atmosphere.
The highlight of the day will be the grand Candy Crusaders Trick-or-Treat adventure, where participants in their most spook-tacular costumes will have the chance to win a prize for best dressed. Running from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the Children’s Club guarantees a day packed with fun and adventure for all young participants.
While the children immerse themselves in the Halloween festivities, parents can enjoy the resort’s luxurious amenities. From a serene overwater spa to world-class dining, adults have ample opportunities to relax and unwind. The resort, known for its blend of family-friendly entertainment and refined elegance, provides the ideal setting for an unforgettable holiday.
To ensure a seamless experience, families are encouraged to book in advance through their personal St. Regis Butler. All Halloween activities are exclusive to children aged 4-12, allowing parents the opportunity to relax while their little ones make lasting memories.
Cooking
Dusit Thani Maldives launches SALA: new vegan dining experience
Dusit Thani Maldives is enhancing its acclaimed culinary experience with the launch of SALA, a new vegan restaurant that features nutrient-rich, plant-based dishes made from premium locally sourced ingredients and produce grown in the resort’s own organic gardens.
SALA has been developed in collaboration with Chef Celia Lam, co-leader of the Slow Food Community Bangkok and an instructor at The Food School – Thailand’s premier academy of gastronomy with business incubation services, affiliated with Dusit Hospitality Education. The restaurant offers a carefully curated ‘plant-powered’ menu, with standout dishes like Greek orzo salad, baked spiced pumpkin, and eggplant steak a la plancha. A variety of salads, soups, and mains are also thoughtfully crafted to provide a delightful culinary experience.
Set in a traditional Thai-style house overlooking the turquoise waters of Baa Atoll, SALA reflects Dusit’s signature Thai-inspired hospitality. Its opening also aligns with Dusit International’s Tree of Life sustainability program, which focuses on environmental preservation, health, and well-being. By incorporating organic, plant-based cuisine into its dining options, Dusit Thani Maldives reaffirms its commitment to promoting sustainability and wellness within the luxury travel sector.
SALA will officially open on November 1, 2024. To mark the occasion, Chef Celia Lam will host exclusive masterclasses and interactive workshops from November 1-4, offering guests the chance to learn how to create exceptional vegan dishes using fresh, wholesome ingredients.
“This new organic restaurant underscores our commitment to fostering healthy, sustainable living while delivering an exceptional dining experience,” said Jean-Louis Ripoche, Area General Manager, Maldives. “We are thrilled to welcome Chef Celia Lam, whose passion for sustainability aligns with our vision. We are confident that SALA will appeal to health-conscious travellers looking for a transformative dining experience.”
Located in the heart of the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Dusit Thani Maldives offers a peaceful retreat that blends Thai-inspired luxury with Maldivian culture. Guests can enjoy unique experiences, including encounters with vibrant marine life, world-class wellness at Devarana Wellness, fine dining, luxurious villas, and a wide range of activities set against the stunning natural beauty of the Maldives.
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