Featured
Soneva announces sun-drenched summer programmes in Maldives

Soneva has announced a spectacular programme for summer 2022 across its award-winning resorts in the Maldives.
Running throughout July and August, guests of all ages at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani can get into the summer spirit with one-of-a-kind experiences, dine on exceptional cuisine with Michelin-starred chefs, unwind with an array of visiting Soneva Soul wellness specialists, and meet acclaimed visiting experts through the ongoing Soneva Stars calendar including one of the best football strikers of all time and World Cup champion David Villa and football freestyling sensation Marcel Gurk.
Helping guests stay cool throughout the summer, each of Soneva’s award-winning resorts in the Maldives features a 24/7, complimentary ice cream room, where guests can sample a cool selection of 60 homemade ice creams, plant-based nice creams and refreshing sorbets. This year, in honour of International Ice Cream Day on July 17, a mouth-watering array of limited-edition flavours can also be sampled.
Soneva Fushi
Guests at Soneva Fushi this summer can dine with not one, but five exceptional visiting chefs from around the world as part of the Soneva Stars roster. Named one of the ‘100 chefs who have changed Italian cuisine in the last 10 years’, two-Michelin-starred Alberto Faccani’s dynamic style blends styles, forms and traditions. Mark Lundgaard of two-Michelin-starred Kong Hans Kælder restaurant in Copenhagen will be showcasing his distinctive mix of classic French cuisine and new Nordic kitchen. Mexican-born Nina Metayer is the darling of Parisian patisserie, while Mickael Viljanen is the chef behind Dublin’s two Michelin-starred Chapter One. And Bart De Pooter is a prominent Belgian chef, best known for his two-Michelin-starred restaurant Pastorale.
Helping guests stay active this summer, former Real Madrid defender Rafael Márquez recently joined the roster at Soneva Fushi to host a series of football camps. Football freestyling sensation Marcel Gurk will be offering his freestyle workshops to Soneva Fushi’s youngest guests this summer too.
Guests can take a fascinating voyage across the heavens with astrophysicist and analogue astronaut Sarafina Nance at Soneva Fushi’s island observatory. A frequent on-air science expert, she will be hosting after-dinner stargazing sessions along with fascinating talks about astronomy throughout the day.
Families and younger guests have so much to see and do at Soneva Fushi. The Den, the region’s largest children’s zone, has a fun-packed programme of experiences and activities that include arts and crafts, movie nights, treasure hunts and pool parties. The experts from Oppidan Education will be making a welcome return to offer one-on-one mentoring sessions to Young Sonevians, as well as fun complementary activities at The Den. Older children and teens can also join the Soneva Academy, which takes learning outside of the classroom with a selection of fascinating immersive courses, including the Marine Life of the Maldives, Mosquitoes and the Adventure of the Corbin, which follows the voyage of an ancient treasure galleon.
View the Soneva Fushi Summer Programme
Soneva Jani
Soneva’s exceptional line-up of visiting chefs will also be going to Soneva Jani in the Maldives’ Noonu Atoll. Mark Lundgaard, Nina Metayer, Mickael Viljanen and Bart De Pooter will all be hosting exclusive dinners at the resort, including at So Engaging, the intimate chef’s table that seats just five guests. One of the greatest Dutch culinary talents, Jonathan Zandbergen, will also taking up a culinary residency at the resort. Executive Chef at Restaurant Merlet in Schoorl, Netherlands, and with cooking methods that combine both tradition and innovation, he has won numerous prestigious awards, including the ‘Prix Culinary Le Taittinger’.
Other unforgettable dining experiences during the summer calendar include a sunrise breakfast on the sands of North Beach and a mouth-watering selection of themed dinners showcasing the continent’s eclectic cuisine at Asian Kitchen. From the mind of acclaimed Swedish chef, Overseas by Mathias Dahlgren’s menu is an ode to organic produce and the sea, while the new menu at So Wild by Diana Von Cranach offers a health-conscious, plant-based menu designed by the innovative raw food chef herself. And at So Starstruck, the Maldives’ only overwater telescope, diners can explore the heavens with the resident astronomer, Maavin.
Hailed as one of the best football strikers of all time, David Villa is a FIFA World Cup champion, UEFA Champions League winner and the Spanish National Team’s all-time leading goal scorer. After his retirement, he founded his own company, DV7 Group, offering football camps, clinics and other curricula to boys and girls around the world. Joining him on the summer roster at Soneva Jani is football freestyling sensation Marcel Gurk who will be offering freestyling workshops for young Sonevians, too.
At Soneva Soul, visiting wellness specialist Roger Moore returns to Soneva Jani throughout the summer. Named in Tatler’s ‘Best of the Best’ guide as ‘one of the top eight therapists worth travelling around the globe for’, his unique approach combines cutting-edge science and medicine, Eastern wellness philosophies, psychotherapeutics and spirituality to create an integrative pathway to wellbeing. Guests can also join Soneva Jani’s own yoga and meditation masters Justin and Kamal for yoga and meditation sessions and guidance in yogic breathing (Pranayama).
Soneva Jani’s 5.6-kilometre private lagoon is just waiting to be explored – all non-motorised watersports are complimentary, including paddleboards and kayaks, and guests can also book swimming or snorkelling lessons with experienced instructors. There are also lots of exhilarating motorised watersports to try, including wakeboarding, e-surfing and the Seabob.
An array of family-focused activities will keep children and teens engaged from morning to night at Soneva Jani’s all-new The Den. From sensory spaces for toddlers to a mocktail bar for teens, plus areas for dressing up, Lego, crafts, reading and so much more. Older children are also invited to connect with the world around them with the Soneva Academy’s immersive modular courses, from exploring the stars to learning about sustainability and the Maldives’ marine realm.
As part of its ongoing commitment to ensuring that younger guests stay inspired and intrigued outside of term-time, Soneva has also partnered with Oppidan Education, a British-based mentoring firm created to help children continue their learning outside of the classroom and reach their full potential. As well as complimentary drop-in workshops with fun, educational activities at The Den, Oppidan will also offer private, one-on-one appointments, which can be scheduled each afternoon.
Featured
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts earns top honours at 2025 Traveller Review Awards

Delivering unforgettable travel experiences remains at the heart of hospitality, and Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives has once again been recognised for its commitment to excellence at the Booking.com Traveller Review Awards 2025. Now in its 13th year, the awards are based on over 360 million verified guest reviews, reflecting traveler experiences. As a homegrown brand from Sri Lanka, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts continues to redefine hospitality in the Maldives with its collection of tropical sanctuaries.
With a rating of 9.3, Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives continues to captivate travellers seeking an idyllic island retreat in the Meemu Atoll. This island serves as the perfect getaway for couples seeking ultimate relaxation and escape, while the exclusive 18+ Platinum Island provides an adults-only haven. The Platinum Beach Bungalows offer undisturbed tranquility for those desiring a true escape from the world. The resort’s chic overwater bungalows, complete with glass floors revealing the wonders beneath and private terraces with hammocks, provide an intimate and serene retreat, ideal for honeymooners.
Also earning a rating of 9.3, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives stands out for its contemporary design, resembling the shape of a manta ray. Vaavu Atoll, the least commercialised atoll in the Maldives, offers quiet beaches and empty dive sites, giving guests the opportunity to experience untouched beauty. The shipwreck at Vaavu Atoll is a popular diving destination, home to a variety of marine life, including fish, corals, and other invertebrates. With a combination of thrilling water sports and laid-back island vibes, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives serves as a perfect choice for travellers seeking both excitement and relaxation.
Receiving a rating of 9.0, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives remains one of the most sought-after destinations in the Maldives, particularly among surfers and ocean lovers. Located just a 20-minute speedboat ride from Malé, the resort is home to the world-renowned Pasta Point, one of the most consistent surf breaks in the region. The island’s lively atmosphere, diverse recreational offerings, and welcoming hospitality make it ideal for families, featuring a dedicated children’s play area that provides a safe and engaging space for fun-filled activities. Whether traveling as a couple, a family, or a group of friends, the resort offers a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
With a rating of 8.9, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is recognised as a diver’s paradise, celebrated for its legendary house reef and year-round diving opportunities. Located in the North Ari Atoll, the resort offers one of the best house reefs in the Maldives, attracting diving enthusiasts eager to explore its rich marine biodiversity. The rustic charm of Ellaidhoo, combined with its commitment to marine conservation, provides an authentic island experience where guests can disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. Whether diving with reef sharks, enjoying beachside dining, or simply soaking in the island’s natural beauty, Ellaidhoo offers a distinctive retreat for underwater adventurers.
Marking the launch of an exciting summer offer, guests planning a Maldivian getaway for a minimum of four nights between May 1, 2025, and October 31, 2026, will receive complimentary speedboat transfers. Additionally, for an elevated travel experience, GHA Discovery membership offers even greater rewards and exclusive benefits. From the moment guests sign up, they can earn and redeem Discovery Dollars (D$), access member-only rates, and enjoy carefully curated local experiences. With privileges available at every membership level, GHA Discovery enhances each stay by offering recognition and unique opportunities to explore the destination in an immersive way.
Combining the warmth of Sri Lankan hospitality with the natural beauty of the Maldives, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives continues to offer the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.
Featured
OZEN LIFE MAADHOO earns Green Globe Gold Certification

THE OZEN COLLECTION has announced that OZEN LIFE MAADHOO has been awarded the Green Globe Gold Certification after maintaining certification for five consecutive years. This prestigious recognition highlights the resort’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, seamlessly integrating world-class luxury with innovative sustainability practices to protect the delicate ecosystems of the Maldives.
At the heart of OZEN LIFE MAADHOO’s achievements lies a comprehensive approach to conservation. The resort’s team of in-house marine biologists leads a coral restoration project aimed at revitalising a 300-meter section of the house reef. This initiative employs 80 coral frames supporting over 2,000 coral fragments. Collaborations with organisations such as Manta Trust, Olive Ridley Project, and Parley, along with an upcoming partnership with Miyaru NGO, strengthen marine protection efforts while guest education programs enhance awareness of ocean conservation.
According to Nuria Camps Suarez, Head Marine Biologist at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, the coral restoration project represents more than just conservation—it symbolises a commitment to future generations. By restoring the house reef, the resort is actively rebuilding a thriving ecosystem. Partnerships with organisations such as Manta Trust and Parley further amplify the impact, ensuring the preservation of the Maldives’ marine heritage.
The resort also integrates renewable energy solutions, featuring one of the Maldives’ largest floating solar panel systems. This system comprises twelve platforms with 720 panels, supplemented by 1,095 rooftop solar units, collectively generating 30% of the island’s energy requirements and significantly reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
OZEN LIFE MAADHOO’s dedication to a zero-waste philosophy is reflected in its advanced waste management systems. A fully automated organic composter processes three tons of green waste weekly, converting it into nutrient-rich fertiliser, while in-vessel shredders transform garden clippings into compost. Additionally, glass bottles are crushed and repurposed for minor construction projects.
Sustainable dining is also a cornerstone of the resort’s eco-conscious approach. The hydroponic farm enhances gastronomy by growing lettuce and herbs in a soilless system, reducing water consumption from 250 litres to just 50 litres per kilogram. This method meets 70% of the island’s lettuce demand while providing fresh, organic ingredients to its award-winning restaurants.
These sustainability initiatives are seamlessly incorporated into the guest experience, allowing visitors to enjoy bespoke activities such as snorkelling among regenerated reefs and savouring produce from the hydroponic farm—ensuring luxury and environmental responsibility go hand in hand. As OZEN LIFE MAADHOO continues to lead in eco-conscious hospitality, it reinforces THE OZEN COLLECTION’s ethos of ‘Refined Elegance,’ where each stay contributes positively to the planet.
Featured
Experience elegance and serenity at Coco Bodu Hithi’s exclusive Coco Residences

Coco Bodu Hithi, a hospitality resort owned by Maldivians, is renowned for its sleek design and comfort. The resort features expansive 184-square-metre residences, each equipped with a private pool, offering elevated privileges to guests across 24 exclusive Coco Residences.
Suspended above the crystal-clear lagoon, these overwater villas provide a private sanctuary, surrounded by endless shades of blue and uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean. Recognised for its outstanding hospitality, Coco Bodu Hithi was awarded the title of Best Service Resort at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2025. From the moment guests arrive, they are welcomed with a refreshing Kurumba and a basket of tropical fruits, while the resort ensures seamless and attentive service throughout their stay.
Guests staying in Coco Residences benefit from a range of exclusive privileges, including the dedicated service of a Mithuru, who ensures a smooth and personalised Maldivian experience. These privileges include an Executive Champagne Sunset Cruise, a Cocktail Party, and a Guided Wine Tasting with the Resident Sommelier, along with other unforgettable experiences that showcase the breathtaking turquoise waters and endless horizon.
For environmentally conscious and culturally curious travellers, the resort offers a variety of enriching activities. Visitors can participate in Coral Planting and other tailored initiatives with the resident Marine Biologist or experience the excitement of a Boduberu performance on the island.
To further enhance the guest experience, the package includes complimentary breakfast options, ranging from a dine-around breakfast to an in-villa Floating Breakfast, complete with a photographer for a keepsake. Guests also receive a daily replenished minibar stocked with beers and soft drinks, along with special residence bar benefits.
Wellness plays an integral role in the resort’s offerings, allowing guests to embark on a journey of balance, rejuvenation, and inner harmony through daily sunrise or sunset yoga sessions. Additionally, visitors can indulge in relaxation with the resort’s signature Coco Fusion Massage or a soothing Balinese Massage, both designed for deep rejuvenation.
Coco Bodu Hithi seamlessly combines adventure and exclusivity, offering captivating dive sessions, exhilarating water sports, and thoughtfully curated signature experiences. The resort has also welcomed high-profile celebrities, ensuring unforgettable stays in the Maldives.
For those looking to experience the ultimate getaway, the Coco Summer Escape offer provides a 40% discount along with a complimentary meal plan upgrade, allowing for an even more indulgent stay at Coco Bodu Hithi.
-
Family1 week ago
Easter in paradise: Ifuru Island Maldives Candyland celebration
-
Awards1 week ago
Forbes Travel Guide’s dual 5-star rating for One&Only Reethi Rah, One&Only Spa
-
Meditation1 week ago
Lily Beach Resort introduces ‘Harmonic Bliss Week’: Maldives’ first floating sound bath
-
Family1 week ago
Wands, wings, Easter things at Amilla Maldives
-
News1 week ago
Bold fusion of music, island vibes: W Maldives to host W PRESENTS with Pretty Girl
-
News1 week ago
Return of Ifuru Maldives perfume: Fragrance that captures island life
-
Love1 week ago
Tropical love affair: Memorable Valentine’s Day celebration at Madifushi Private Island
-
Action7 days ago
Tennis legend Nikolay Davydenko serves up tuition at Four Seasons Maldives at Kuda Huraa