The spotlight is on SO/ Maldives as the avant-garde island resort celebrates an extraordinary hat-trick of achievements, reinforcing its position as one of the Maldives’ most stylish and forward-thinking luxury destinations. In a year marked by innovation and excellence, SO/ Maldives proudly announces three major international accolades that highlight its design leadership, sustainable vision, and culinary artistry.

The resort has been named the Best Luxury Private Beach Resort in the Maldives by the Luxury Lifestyle Awards 2025, recognizing its bold approach to redefining modern island luxury. Set within the contemporary playground of Maldives, SO/ Maldives has captivated global travelers with its fusion of fashion-forward design, avant-garde architecture, and seamless connection to nature an experience where couture meets coastline.

In a testament to its commitment to a greener future, the resort also clinched the International Sustainability Award 2025, honoring SO/ Maldives’ efforts to lead the way in eco-conscious hospitality across the Indian Ocean. From mindful design and locally inspired architecture to eco-driven dining and renewable practices, the award celebrates the resort’s ongoing mission to blend style with sustainability.

Adding to its growing legacy of excellence, Hadaba at SO/ Maldives was crowned Maldives’ Best Hotel Restaurant 2025 at the 6th Annual World Culinary Awards. Known for its authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, breathtaking oceanfront setting, and immersive dining experience, Hadaba continues to elevate the culinary scene in the Maldives with artistry, elegance, and soulful flavor.

“These awards are not just milestones they are a reflection of the creativity, passion, and dedication of our entire team,” said Olivier MOIES-DELVAL, General Manager of SO/ Maldives. “From design to sustainability and gastronomy, every aspect of SO/ Maldives is crafted to inspire to offer experiences that are as meaningful as they are memorable.”

Since its debut, SO/ Maldives has redefined the rhythm of Maldivian luxury effortlessly fusing bold aesthetics with island soul. These prestigious recognitions reaffirm the resort’s vision to continue leading with purpose, innovation, and SO/ flair.

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru has announced its recognition as one of the Top 4 Resorts in the Indian Ocean in the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2025. The accolade serves as a meaningful tribute to the resort’s 30th anniversary — celebrating three decades of barefoot eco-luxury, sustainability, and heartfelt hospitality, values that remain at the core of Banyan Tree’s philosophy of a Sanctuary for the Senses.

Since 1995, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru has defined the essence of the Original Maldives — a serene haven where turquoise waters meet soft white sands and architecture breathes in harmony with nature. Each of its 48 all-pool villas is a reflection of the island’s deep connection to local culture and sense of place, thoughtfully crafted with eco-conscious, sustainable design that celebrates the natural beauty of the Maldives. More than a destination, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru is a barefoot sanctuary for the senses, rooted in sustainability and local heritage — a place where nature, culture, and a deep sense of belonging come together to craft an unforgettable Maldivian journey.

This recognition follows the resort’s recent success at the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2025, where it was named Leading Eco-Friendly Resort — reaffirming its unwavering commitment to sustainability from design to daily operations. From renewable-energy practices and eco-conscious, sustainable architecture to its pioneering Marine Lab, the first resort-based facility of its kind in the Maldives, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru remains a symbol of environmental stewardship and dedication to marine conservation across the region.

Together with its award-winning Banyan Tree Spa, recognised by Travel + Leisure Asia Awards 2025, the resort continues to champion holistic wellbeing — weaving mindfulness, nature, and Maldivian heritage into every guest experience.

As the resort marks this significant milestone, the honour stands as a celebration of its people, its purpose, and its promise — a living legacy of sanctuary, sustainability, and belonging that has defined Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru for 30 years.

For more information about the resort, explore here.

As the festive season approaches, Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort invites guests to immerse themselves in the rhythm and heritage of island life through “Tales of the Maldives”, a celebration of local traditions forming part of Avani Hotels & Resorts’ global “Travelling Traditions” campaign.

The initiative encourages travellers to celebrate the holidays through the customs and rituals unique to each Avani destination. Across Asia, Europe, Africa and the Indian Ocean, guests are invited to exchange familiar festive routines for authentic cultural encounters — and in the Maldives, Avani+ Fares transforms the season into an island story woven with rhythm, flavour and craftsmanship.

At Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort, “Tales of the Maldives” highlights the country’s deep-rooted artistic and communal heritage. Guests can join traditional Boduberu drumming circles on the beach, participate in storytelling sessions under starlit skies, and discover the legends that have shaped island life for generations.

Culinary experiences take centre stage, featuring Maldivian dishes cooked over coconut husks — a nod to the traditional island kitchen — while local artisans host hands-on workshops in lacquer work and weaving, offering guests a chance to learn the crafts that define Maldivian creativity.

Avani+ Fares extends the celebration to younger guests through AvaniKids and Teens Club, where children can take part in foam parties and learn how to build miniature dhonis, the traditional Maldivian fishing boat. These activities not only entertain but also help instil an appreciation for local heritage in the next generation of travellers.

Recently recognised as the Best Beach Resort at the TTM Awards, Avani+ Fares Maldives continues to blend relaxation with cultural engagement. Surrounded by a vibrant house reef teeming with parrotfish, rays and turtles, the resort embodies the natural beauty and community spirit that the Maldives is known for.

The “Travelling Traditions” programme reinforces Avani’s philosophy of balance — connecting modern travellers with the timeless customs that bring destinations to life. In the Maldives, that connection is found in the beat of Boduberu, the scent of coconut smoke, and the stories shared beneath a canopy of stars.