Awards
Soneva honored 2023 Terra Carta Seal for leadership in sustainability

Soneva has been honored with the prestigious 2023 Terra Carta Seal by The Sustainable Markets Initiative. The award-winning resort brand, which has properties in the Maldives and Thailand, is built on the foundation that businesses must exist for a greater purpose than shareholder returns. Soneva recognises that luxury travel and the pursuit of rare experiences can co-exist with a deep care for the earth, the environment and its people, and continually strives to raise the benchmark for responsible tourism.
The Terra Carta Seal is awarded to companies that have demonstrated the success of a high-impact, large scale company-wide project, initiative or strategy which aligns with one or more of the Sustainable Markets Initiative’s ten Terra Carta Articles. The Articles underpin the Terra Carta, the Sustainable Markets Initiative’s guiding mandate which provides a roadmap and framework to accelerate the transition to an ambitious and sustainable future, placing Nature, People and Planet at the heart of global value creation.
The winners were selected by a panel of global experts from the environmental, business, political and philanthropic worlds. Designed by Sir Jony Ive, the Terra Carta Seal was launched in 2021 at COP26 by His Majesty King Charles III when he was the Prince of Wales. Since its inception, the Sustainable Markets Initiative has awarded its coveted Seal to just 83 companies globally.
“The Sustainable Markets Initiative’s Terra Carta Seal recognises those companies which are taking great strides in delivering real-world outcomes to create a more positive future that we can all embrace. The calibre of the projects and initiatives being driven by these companies sets the standard for us all as we push forward to a more sustainable future.
Jennifer Jordan-Saifi, CEO, Sustainable Markets Initiative, said:
“The Sustainable Markets Initiative’s Terra Carta Seal recognises those companies which are taking great strides in delivering real-world outcomes. As we stand on the eve of COP28, public, private sector and philanthropic actors will come together at the inaugural Business and Philanthropy Climate Forum to bridge the gap between ambition and action. It is examples exemplified by the 2023 Terra Carta Seal winners that are helping to inspire and lead the way.”
Recognised for its remarkable sustainability efforts, Soneva is the only hotel brand among a select group of large global organisations that received a 2023 Terra Carta Seal. Other companies who received the 2023 Terra Carta Seal include Airbus, Carbon Clean, CDPQ, DLA Piper, EY, Haier Smart Home, Hitachi, LanzaTech, Novartis, Orange, Ping An Bank, Pollination, ReNew, Robertson, Siemens Energy, and Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.
While there is currently no industry standard for environmental and social reporting, Soneva developed its own Total Impact Assessment (TIA) methodology in-house which includes measuring its Environmental Profit and Loss (EP&L) and improving year-on-year. By taking a ‘planetary boundaries’ view of its social and environmental impact, the TIA assesses the impact from sources over which Soneva has both direct and indirect control, including natural capital, human capital, social capital, economic capital and tax.
“Soneva is honoured to be awarded the prestigious 2023 Terra Carta Seal. We are dedicated to leading the way in responsible tourism and championing the transformative power of travel and tourism in global conservation efforts. Soneva resorts have been carbon neutral since 2012. We recently invested USD 9 million in 4.5MWp solar PV and 4.5MWh of battery storage at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani that will take us to 50% of electricity from renewable energy.
“We also have a mandatory 2% environmental levy on all stays. The proceeds go to the non-profit Soneva Foundation, which helps offset both direct and indirect carbon emissions from our resort activities as well as guest flights, while also supporting impactful global projects such as forest restoration efforts in Mozambique and Thailand, coral restoration in the Maldives, reintroducing near-extinct hornbills to Thailand’s Koh Kood island, distributing fuel-efficient cook stoves in Myanmar and more,” said Arnfinn Oines, Social & Environmental Conscience, Soneva.
Awards
Fushifaru Maldives shines across premier global, regional travel awards in 2025

Fushifaru Maldives has announced a series of distinguished accolades and nominations in 2025, further cementing its position as a leading name in boutique luxury hospitality.
The resort has been awarded Maldives’ Leading Boutique Resort 2025 by the prestigious World Travel Awards, a significant milestone that highlights Fushifaru’s continued excellence in offering personalised service rooted in genuine Maldivian warmth and hospitality.
Adding to this achievement, Fushifaru Maldives has also received the 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award, placing it among the top 10% of hotels worldwide based on consistently high guest reviews and ratings. This recognition reflects the resort’s unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction and heartfelt hospitality.
Fushifaru’s growing prominence in the global travel scene is further underlined by its shortlisting for The Travel Industry Awards 2025 by TTG, a testament to its rising influence and reputation within the industry.
In addition to global accolades, Fushifaru Maldives has been nominated by Travel Trade Maldives (TTM) in three prestigious categories:
- Best Boutique Resort
- Most Picturesque Resort
- Best Wedding Destination
These nominations underscore Fushifaru’s unique blend of natural beauty, thoughtful design, and authentic Maldivian guest experiences that make it an ideal destination for leisure, romance, and celebration.
“We’re truly grateful for these recognitions, which reflect the care and passion our team pours into every detail of the guest experience. We sincerely thank our guests for choosing to make Fushifaru their preferred destination in the Maldives,” said Ahmed Siaar, General Manager of Fushifaru Maldives.
These accolades and nominations celebrate Fushifaru’s dedication to creating meaningful and memorable experiences—both above and below the waterline.
Awards
Bandos Maldives crowned Indian Ocean’s Best Dive Resort at World Travel Awards 2025

Bandos Maldives has once again been awarded “Indian Ocean’s Best Dive Resort” at the World Travel Awards 2025. This marks a consecutive win, underscoring the resort’s ongoing excellence in providing world-class diving experiences and its lasting reputation as a premier dive destination in the Maldives.
A key factor in this achievement is Dive Bandos, recognised as one of the Maldives’ most well-established and respected diving centres. With decades of experience, Dive Bandos offers expertly guided underwater adventures led by a seasoned team of dive professionals. Their dedication to safety, education, and marine preservation ensures that every dive is not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful.
Bandos Maldives provides convenient access to over 40 renowned dive sites, giving guests unparalleled opportunities to explore the Indian Ocean’s vibrant coral reefs, dramatic drop-offs, and rich marine biodiversity. Whether a beginner or an experienced diver, guests are guided by multilingual instructors who prioritise both safety and unforgettable encounters beneath the waves.
Ismail Rasheed, General Manager of Bandos Maldives, stated, “This award means a great deal to us not just as a recognition, but as a reminder of why we do what we do. Our mission has always been to deliver meaningful, safe, and unforgettable dive experiences. I’m incredibly proud of our dive team and the entire Bandos family for their unwavering commitment to excellence. We are grateful to our guests and industry partners for their continued trust and support.”
Bandos Maldives is conveniently located just 7 kilometres from Velana International Airport, on a pristine coral island spanning 18.66 hectares in the heart of North Malé Atoll, exemplifying the allure of the Maldives as a top travel destination. Since welcoming its first guests half a century ago, Bandos Maldives has remained dedicated to its enduring ethos of “the island of hospitality.”
Nestled amidst the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, Bandos Maldives offers a diverse range of 220 rooms. The resort also features three vibrant bars, four restaurants, and relaxation at the Orchid Spa. The state-of-the-art Clubhouse sports complex provides opportunities to stay fit and unwind with beach volleyball, tennis, steam baths, sauna, and a modern fitness suite. For underwater enthusiasts, Dive Bandos, one of the country’s longest-established centres, ensures a safe and exhilarating underwater adventure.
Awards
Maldives named ‘Best for Romance’ in Expedia’s 2025 Island Hot List

The Maldives has been officially recognised as the world’s premier destination for romance in the first-ever Expedia 2025 Island Hot List. The influential report, released today by the global travel giant, places the Maldives among the top ten most sought-after islands globally, a testament to the nation’s enduring appeal.
The inclusion is backed by a significant uptick in traveller demand, with Expedia data showing that travel interest in the Maldives has surged by $15% year-on-year. This places the archipelago in an elite group of destinations that are capturing the imagination of global travellers.
While celebrated for its quintessential romantic allure, the Expedia report highlights a noteworthy evolution in the Maldives’ brand identity. The “Insider Tip” provided for the destination points to a new era of conscious luxury, describing the trend as “Paradise with a purpose.” The report notes, “Remote. Relaxed. Refined. The Maldives remains the ultimate romantic, luxury escape, but 2025 marks a shift: floating villas powered by solar, coral farming initiatives, and a growing push for carbon-neutral tourism.”
This recognition of the Maldives’ growing commitment to sustainability is a significant nod to the efforts of hoteliers and tourism operators across the country.
The comprehensive Expedia report, which analysed factors including traveller data, accommodation quality, accessibility, and overall tourism appeal, named the Maldives alongside other world-class destinations such as Bali (Best for Relaxation), Fiji (Best for Community), and Koh Samui (Best for Affordable Luxury).
For Maldivian hoteliers, the report contains several key data points. It identifies May as the best time to travel to the Maldives, offering a valuable insight for marketing and occupancy planning. The report also references the premium positioning of the destination, noting average hotel rates can be around $655. Jumeirah Olhahali Island Maldives was specifically mentioned as a hotel recommendation.
Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group brands public relations, commented on the list’s purpose: “Powered by real traveller data, the Expedia Island Hot List gives travellers the inspiration they need to plan a smarter island escape.”
The press release also shared that global interest in island destinations is up by an average of $30%, signalling a robust market that the Maldives is well-positioned to capitalise on. Expedia’s advice to travellers, such as bundling flights and hotels to save an average of nearly $338, further encourages bookings to long-haul destinations like the Maldives.
This accolade from a major online travel agency like Expedia provides powerful validation of the Maldives’ strategic direction, successfully blending its world-famous romantic appeal with a forward-thinking commitment to environmental stewardship.
-
News7 days ago
SIX & SIX PRIVATE ISLANDS introduces Edhurun: New philosophy of personal hosting rooted in Maldivian culture
-
Cooking1 week ago
The St. Regis Maldives announces exciting culinary journey with renowned Chef Jolly
-
Fitness1 week ago
Velassaru Maldives opens Reformer Pilates and Barre Studio
-
News1 week ago
Dusit opens dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives: Vibrant new all-inclusive escape
-
Celebration1 week ago
Fari Islands Festival 2025: New chapter in cultural and creative luxury
-
News1 week ago
Amilla Maldives honoured by Travel + Leisure for family stays
-
Excursions1 week ago
OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO hosts Dive Month for female journalists
-
Featured6 days ago
SAii Lagoon Maldives introduces brand signatures in wellness-led evolution