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 introduces curated all-inclusive getaways in Maldives

Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts is redefining stress-free travel with a trio of curated, all-inclusive offers across its Maldives properties. Each resort—Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives, Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives, and Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives—presents a unique experience, ranging from surfside excitement to secluded luxury, with every aspect of the stay carefully bundled for a seamless holiday.
At Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives, guests are invited to enjoy five nights of barefoot luxury, with packages starting at USD 3,499 nett for double occupancy in a Water Bungalow or USD 3,999 nett in an Over Water Suite. Tailored for travellers seeking a balance of adventure and relaxation, the offer includes:
- Return speed boat transfers
- A 4-course beach dinner featuring steak or seafood
- A 30-minute spa treatment
- Snorkelling and swimming experiences
- A local island visit
- Unlimited laundry services
- Premium All-Inclusive privileges
For those in search of tranquillity, the adults-only Platinum Wing at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives offers a refined escape. With a minimum stay of seven nights in a Platinum Water Bungalow, the package is available at USD 6,999 nett for double occupancy and features:
- Return seaplane transfers with VIP lounge access
- A 4-course steak or seafood dinner by the beach
- A 45-minute spa treatment
- An island-hopping adventure
- A welcome bottle of wine, fruit basket, and bed decorations
- Unlimited laundry services
- Premium All-Inclusive privileges
At Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, guests can indulge in serene overwater luxury with a seven-night stay starting from USD 6,999 nett for double occupancy in Water Bungalows and higher categories. The package highlights include:
- Return seaplane transfers with VIP lounge access
- Premium All-Inclusive privileges
- A 4-course steak or seafood dinner by the beach
- A 45-minute spa treatment
- An island-hopping adventure
- A dolphin-watching excursion
- Unlimited laundry services
These exclusive offers are available for stays between 1 June and 31 October 2025, with bookings now open.
Whether it’s catching waves at the iconic Pasta Point at Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives, enjoying a sunset over the tranquil lagoon at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives, or exploring the pristine waters surrounding Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, each resort promises a distinct and immersive experience. Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts delivers three unforgettable all-inclusive escapes, designed for effortless relaxation with every detail expertly managed.
Featured
Travel that matters: indulge in sustainability at Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu

With World Environment Day (5 June) and World Oceans Day (8 June) approaching, and Sir David Attenborough’s highly anticipated film Ocean igniting renewed interest in marine conservation, more travellers are seeking meaningful ways to turn environmental concern into impactful action.
Coco Collection, a leading luxury resort brand in the Maldives, demonstrates that responsible travel and indulgent island experiences can coexist harmoniously. At Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, located in the UNESCO-listed Baa Atoll, guests are offered the opportunity to actively engage in ocean conservation efforts while enjoying a tranquil tropical retreat.
Far more than a scenic escape, the resort serves as a centre for daily, impactful sustainability work. Conservation initiatives at Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu include:
- Coral restoration projects, led by the in-house marine biologist to regenerate local reef ecosystems.
- Sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation, hosted at the Maldives’ first veterinary-run turtle rescue centre in partnership with the Olive Ridley Project. Visitors can tour the centre, observe turtle feedings, and register in advance to volunteer.
- Turtle hatching monitoring, involving the observation of protected nests to ensure hatchlings can be safely guided back to the ocean.
- Guided snorkelling and diving excursions in the Baa Atoll’s thriving marine ecosystem, which is home to tropical fish, vibrant coral gardens, and sea turtles.
Following World Turtle Day on 23 May, the resort also commemorates the beginning of turtle hatching season. Weekly marine talks and immersive conservation activities allow guests to deepen their understanding and connection to the ocean.
In 2024, the Olive Ridley Project’s Maldives Research team reported 168 new turtle nests, over 5,264 successful hatchings, and nearly 3,500 turtle sightings. Since 2013, the project has surpassed 40,000 recorded sea turtle encounters, with Coco Collection associates logging the highest number of turtle encounters in the Maldives.
In addition to marine conservation, the resort offers a broad range of water sports — including water skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking — along with cultural experiences through its Coco Experiences programme.
Recognised among the top resorts in the Indian Ocean by the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2024, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is celebrated for its authentic Maldivian heritage, breathtaking natural surroundings, and steadfast commitment to sustainability.
Whether visitors are nature enthusiasts, aspiring conservationists, or simply seeking a purposeful and mindful retreat, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu provides a rare opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Sir David Attenborough and contribute to lasting environmental stewardship.
As sustainability-focused holidays approach, the resort is preparing a range of experiences for both guests and staff. Planned activities include tree planting, Saifodhu (a traditional Maldivian high tea accompanied by a display of homemade goods), a sustainable dining experience, and a sustainability presentation led by the resort’s Marine Educator and the ORP team in celebration of World Environment Day. For World Oceans Day, the island is also set to host various sustainability-driven events and experiences.
Celebration
Escape to Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru for Eid, wellness, and ocean adventures

This June, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru welcome guests to immerse themselves in a memorable Eid al-Adha celebration, enhanced by a range of wellbeing-focused experiences, sustainability activities, and exclusive seasonal offers. The resorts invite visitors to honour this special time while exploring the Maldives’ rich local culture and breathtaking natural environment.
Tripadvisor has recognised Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru as one of the Top 15 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the World as part of the 2025 Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards. This accolade reaffirms the resort’s status as a luxury sanctuary, celebrated for its dedication to excellence and delivering authentic, enriching guest experiences.
Throughout June, guests are invited to reconnect with mind, body, and spirit through a series of carefully curated wellbeing experiences offered at both resorts:
- Wellbeing Wednesday: Barefoot Grounding Day – Inspired by walking meditation, this experience encourages guests to rebalance and reconnect with nature, promoting a healthier work-life harmony.
- Global Wellness Day (14 June): Breathwork & Meditation – An intuitive workshop teaching effective breathing techniques to rejuvenate body and mind.
- International Yoga Day (21 June): Guided Sunset Yoga – Held by the beach, this session offers a peaceful opportunity to embrace mindfulness amidst a stunning natural backdrop.
The resorts commemorate World Environment Week with a series of impactful activities that deepen guest engagement with nature and community:
- Reef Awareness Day – Guided snorkelling sessions introduce guests to the vibrant marine life of the house reefs.
- Citizen Science Snorkel & Culture Talk – A morning snorkel followed by an afternoon discussion exploring Maldivian cultural heritage.
- World Environment Day – Guests can participate in a swim between the islands and join a reef clean-up effort.
- World Ocean Day – Activities include the removal of coral predators from a nearby reef to protect marine biodiversity.
- Environment Week Talk – An educational session at the Marine Lab, detailing the Maldives’ environmental narrative.
The resorts celebrate Eid al-Adha with a variety of exclusive experiences and promotions designed to enhance each guest’s stay:
- Dive More, Pay Less – Guests can uncover the Maldives’ underwater wonders with a special diving promotion that offers increasing savings with each dive.
- Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru: Stay 3, Pay 2 – A chance to enjoy an extended stay in a serene island retreat, with a complimentary third night.
- Dhawa Ihuru: Special Eid al-Adha Dinner (6 June) – A festive culinary event celebrating local flavours, culture, and traditions.
- Exclusive Discounts – Offers include 10% off arts and crafts, 30% off selected watersports and diving activities, and 20% off specially curated guest experiences—inviting travellers to rediscover the magic of the Maldives in unforgettable ways.
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