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SO/ Maldives to open November 2023

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This November will mark the opening of SO/ Maldives, a sartorially-rooted retreat set on a pristine private island and surrounded by the Emboodhoo Lagoon.

Located just a 15-minute speedboat ride from Malé’s Velana International Airport, the hotel harmoniously blends rare accessibility with exquisite privacy, with each of the 80 individually designed villas nestled directly on its own slice of white-sand beach or on stilts above the lagoon. Innovative restaurant and bar concepts are designed to offer a refreshing counterpart to the ubiquitous resort all-day dining buffet, while the cultural programming will bring together the best of music, fashion, design and art. Throw in an oh-so-chic spa and you have the ultimate exotic-island experience that will never go out of style.

The design of SO/ Maldives is bold and structural, drawing inspiration from the craftsmanship and theatricality of contemporary couture. Upon arrival, guests are met by a spectacular, over-water pavilion, which sets the aesthetic tone of the hotel with clean lines, cool neutrals, and natural wood, juxtaposed against vibrant accents and a sculptural, red-latticed central staircase. The hotel’s distinctive walkways are framed by billowing fabrics or architectural timber canopies, making a striking counterpart to the island’s lush natural flora, and referencing the dramatic styling of high fashion presentations.

Created in collaboration with leading artists and fashion designers, the 80 over-water and beachfront villas are a lesson in inclusive luxury, perfectly suited to everyone from young families and couples to groups of friends seeking sartorial experiences in this covetable pocket of seclusion. Set across eight categories, the collection ranges from the 120 sqm Lagoon Water Pool Villa Collection to the spectacular 330 sqm Three-Bedroom Ocean Water Pool Atelier, while the 238 sqm Family Beach Pool Villa with Capsule come complete with fun adjoining sleep pods for younger guests. Private pools come as standard, as does an invaluable personalised concierge service courtesy of the hotel’s guest experience hosts.

A complete antithesis of the staid all-day dining buffet, the hotel offers three distinct dining options, each with its own unique food-driven concept. The Citronelle Club is inspired by the flavours of Asia, serving up spice-filled dishes family style, while the menu at destination restaurant Hadaba will feature slow-cooked dishes and smoked delicacies, using both local produce and the finest Levantine ingredients and spices. Guests looking for a more laid-back vibe can head to Lazuli, a hybrid beach bar and lounge oozing Cote D’Azur charm and elegance, which will play host to DJs and live music programming as the nights draw in.

Surrounded by lush greenery, the Wellness Camp features specialist treatment rooms alongside hammam, steam rooms and a full-fitted gym, while those looking for a more organic workout can head to the watersports centre located on the beach. For families, The Nest kids club is fully equipped with toys, games, and activities, while teens have their own dedicated space, The Zone, complete with games room and outdoor deck.

For more information and/or bookings, visit www.so-maldives.com or contact the reservations team via SO.Maldives.Reservations@so-hotels.com.

Awards

Sun Siyam Iru Veli recognised with 10 honours at Life Saving Leadership Awards

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Sun Siyam Iru Veli, part the Privé Collection of House of Sun Siyam, has been recognised with 10 notable awards at the 3rd Life Saving Leadership Awards Ceremony held by the Maldives Swimming and Life Saving Skills Training School on 17 May 2026.

These accolades strengthens the resort’s position as one of the leading benchmarks for water safety and lifeguarding excellence in the Maldives. They are also a reflection of the continued investment in aquatic safety, emergency preparedness, and professionally trained lifeguarding operations and Sun Siyam Iru Veli’s commitment to creating a safe island experience for every guest.

Among the accolades received was the Maldives Water Safety Excellence Award 2025, the highest recognition presented during the ceremony. Additional honours included The Pinnacle Resort Award, Best Lifeguard Service Operation, Sustainability in Lifeguard Operation Award, and Water Safety Education and Advocacy Award. Together, these accolades reflect the resort’s continued efforts to integrate internationally aligned safety practices into the guest experience while maintaining the warm and intuitive spirit of Maldivian hospitality.

Alongside the organisational awards, five team members from Sun Siyam Iru Veli were also individually recognised for their contributions and leadership in the field of water safety and lifesaving training. General Manager Masdhooq Saeed received the General Manager of the Year Award, while Mohamed Athif Ibrahim was honoured for Water Safety & Life Saving Training Leadership. Additional recognitions included the Supervisor Excellence Award presented to Ahmed Shifau, the Trident Excellence Award awarded to Ahmed Jamsheed, and the Rising Star in Lifeguarding Award presented to Hassan Yousuf Adam Abbas.

Since launching its dedicated lifeguarding operation in 2023, Sun Siyam Iru Veli has continued to invest in training, prevention strategies, emergency preparedness, and water safety awareness. The resort’s approach combines proactive guest education and observation with structured emergency response systems, ensuring a safe and seamless experience across the island’s ocean and pool environments.

“Water safety is incredibly important for resorts across the Maldives, where the ocean is such a central part of everyday life and the guest experience,” remarked Mohamed Najah, Resort Manager of Sun Siyam Iru Veli, during the award ceremony. “As an industry, the way we approach safety and precautions must continue to evolve. Moving beyond simply warning guests to be cautious, it is our responsibility to ensure our teams are properly trained, prepared, and confident in responding when needed. It is an honour to see these efforts recognised, but this is only the beginning. Our focus now is on continuing to strengthen training across our frontline teams and further raising the standard of water safety within our industry.

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Drink

Asia’s top mixology talent to lead cocktail takeover at JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll

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JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort invites guests to discover an immersive three-night cocktail journey this June, featuring acclaimed mixologist Navjot Singh. Taking place across the resort’s distinctive venues from June 17 to 19, 2026, the exclusive bar takeover will present a curated series of innovative tropical cocktail experiences inspired by island living, craftsmanship, and storytelling.

Led by Navjot Singh, Beverage Program Leader at Lair Bar, the experience brings one of Asia’s most celebrated contemporary cocktail programs to the Maldives. Recognised as No. 8 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025, Lair Bar is renowned for its innovative approach to mixology, blending luxury spirits, creativity, and immersive storytelling. Navjot himself was recently crowned World Class India 2025, cementing his reputation as one of the industry’s leading talents.

Joining him is Nakul Dev, Senior Bartender at LAIR BAR, whose creative approach is deeply inspired by the flavours and ingredients of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. With over six years of experience in hospitality and cocktails, Nakul is known for crafting ingredient-driven drinks that reflect the essence of the mountains and local produce from his hometown. His passion for flavour development and exploration of new techniques brings an additional layer of creativity and depth to the collaboration.

Set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, the takeover will unfold across three distinct venues, each offering its own atmosphere and cocktail narrative. At Nikkei Bar, guests will enjoy an exclusive sunset activation where thoughtfully crafted cocktails elevate golden-hour moments with refined tropical flavours and interactive guest experiences. Wahoo Bar will host an elegant beachfront evening inspired by the serenity of the coast, pairing curated tropical cocktails with breathtaking sunset views and laid-back sophistication. The final experience will take place at JW Garden, where a “Garden to Glass” concept celebrates locally grown ingredients such as basil, lemongrass, and pandan, highlighting sustainability and creating an immersive journey.

“We are thrilled to welcome Navjot Singh to JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort for this exclusive guest bartender series,” said Srikanth Devarapalli, General Manager. “His expertise, creativity, and dedication to craft reflect our commitment to offering guests immersive moments that are aligned with our philosophy of contemporary luxury.”

Each cocktail hour has been carefully designed to reflect the spirit of the island through a contemporary lens, blending tropical influences with modern techniques and storytelling. Through this collaboration, JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort continues to elevate its culinary and beverage programming, offering guests meaningful and memorable experiences rooted in connection, discovery, and craftsmanship.

Learn more about JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort here.

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Culture

Eid al-Adha at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa blends family togetherness with island luxury

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This season, as families from across the globe gather to honour the blessed occasion of Eid al-Adha, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa invites multi-generational travellers to celebrate the spirit of sacrifice, gratitude, and togetherness on the pristine shores of Shaviyani Atoll. Embracing the essence of this holy celebration, the resort has curated a deeply meaningful Eid experience, seamlessly aligned with its ongoing “Family Fun Summer” offer, giving loved ones the perfect framework to slow down, connect, and nourish the soul in an island sanctuary.

An Eid Culinary Awakening at Aailaa

Celebrating the occasion with gastronomic elegance, the resort’s vibrant all-day dining venue, Aailaa, will be transformed into a festive sanctuary alive with the warmth and spirit of Eid. Guests can look forward to a special Eid corner during breakfast, featuring traditional morning delicacies. As the day unfolds, a curated festive menu takes centre stage, showcasing rich, comforting flavours such as Chargrilled Lamb Chops and Beef Kofta Kebab.

The specialty of the day belongs to a true masterpiece: the ROYAL PRELUDE – Slow-Cooked Lamb Paya Shorba. A traditional, gelatinous aromatic broth simmered overnight, it is infused with Kashmiri saffron, delicate herbs, and finished with a golden, crispy onion garnish, offering a deeply comforting taste of heritage.

Spaces Crafted for Togetherness

At the heart of the experience is a commitment to providing a space for families to be truly present. The resort’s Overwater Duplex Villas and Two-Bedroom Duplex Beach Villas with Pool serve as private havens of comfort, specifically designed to cater to the nuances of multigenerational living. These sanctuaries are complemented by the intuitive care of Thakuru service and the freedom of complimentary bicycles, allowing guests to explore the island’s lush landscapes at a leisurely, intentional pace.

The journey extends beyond the villa, offering a curated collection of activities that celebrate the spirit of discovery. Younger guests are invited to the Family by JW™ Little Griffins Kids’ Club, one of the largest in the Maldives, with over 100 programs to spark curiosity and play. For a deeper connection to the environment, the JW Garden provides a tranquil setting for families to engage in culinary classes, offering a literal ‘farm-to-table’ experience that fosters a deeper harmony with the natural world.

The journey extends beyond the villa, offering a curated collection of activities that celebrate the spirit of discovery. Younger guests are invited to the Family by JW™ Little Griffins Kids’ Club, one of the largest in the Maldives with over 100 programs spark curiosity and play. For a deeper connection to the environment, the JW Garden provides a tranquil setting for families to engage in culinary classes, offering a literal ‘farm-to-table’ experience that fosters a deeper harmony with the natural world.

Family Sun Summer Package

Designed for ultimate connection, the Family Fun Summer package offers a comprehensive escape with a USD 300 resort credit to be used toward spa treatments, signature dining, or island adventures. The experience includes daily breakfast, along with three-course lunches and dinners for two adults and children under 12 at select venues. Families can also enjoy a signature floating breakfast in the privacy of their villa.

For more information and bookings, please visit the resort’s website.

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