Family
Soneva Fushi, Maldives introduces new ‘Den’ concept for children
Maldives.net.mv – The endless flights of fancy, driving ideas and activities at the Children’s Den at Soneva Kiri are to be recreated by popular demand at Soneva Fushi, with the building of a second Den by the end of 2013, devoted to fun and learning for young children and teenagers.
Taking their inspiration from the dramatic Manta Ray at Soneva Kiri, as well as many discussions with young Soneva Enthusiasts over the past two years; Sonu and Eva Shivdasani and their creative team have come up with another unique concept for Soneva Fushi. When completed, it will be the most creative and large-scale dedicated children’s Den in the Maldives.
So forget classrooms and think play time! The Den is like an amusement park, eco-pod and theatre of dreams all rolled into one.
Pride of place in The Den will be a spectacular 130 square metre swimming pool complete with slide, while smaller children will have their own toddlers pool, both pools bordered with decks designed for safe sun-kissed play. Other outdoor activities revolve around a pirate ship, a zip line that allows users to whizz through the jungle and of course the ever popular games area including a large ping pong table.
Designers have invested an enormous amount of time into their plans for The Tunnel, a 14 metre corridor linking the gardens with The Den, and a treasure trove of all the activities that children MUST have at the top of their daily hobby lists. It is clad in roots and branches hiding an ‘old’ map of the Den with hints as to where the ‘treasure’ is buried. Whatever our age, we all love trying to find buried treasure!
The tunnel is also educational with sections from old buildings showing how people used to build in the Maldives, and fun with a novelty door in door in a door, plus glass peep holes in the walls. Also in the walls is a clock from wonderland.
All these features have been carefully conceived to make the Tunnel a big hit with the children, encouraging them to explore the organic garden which has flowers and Asian trees with swings and nests hanging from the branches.
Venturing inside offers no relief from the excitement. A dancing area, DJ corner, dressing up room, library and cinema provide space for music, books, films and fantasies. A music room with a small stage will house a range of musical instruments for some proper Maldivian noise-making.
Tables shaped like tropical leaves create a learning area that few children will ever have experienced, while a ‘mocktail’ bar and kitchen provide space for children to learn about food and drink. Locally crafted woodcarving countertops give these areas a distinctly Asian feel, educating young visitors about natural materials locally sourced.
For our younger guests, the Den also features a Lego room and display area where children can build on walls and show off their creations. Teenagers can enjoy their own relaxation area which provides a bit of peace and quiet for those tired from the exciting activities. There is also a peaceful sleeping area for toddlers.
Many of the ideas for the Children’s Den in Soneva Fushi have stemmed from input by children who have played in the Den at Soneva Kiri. The structure itself was the stuff of dreams after groups of younger guests were asked to imagine their fantasy play area, leaving a creative team of international architects and builders with the task of rolling out this real life manifestation of their imaginations.
It has been a stunning success. Built to appear like a gigantic manta ray hovering above the forest, it offers healthy natural light and magnificent views, appreciated as much by parents who are captivated by both concept and delivery and by the children engaged in all the activities.
Over the years, Soneva’s teams of professional child minders, who are constantly on duty at The Den, have come up with a range of clever ideas for integrated learning and play so children might learn about protecting Thai elephants while also painting them on paper or even creating their very own print in batik art. They find out about making traditional puppets and costumes inspired by cultures throughout Southeast Asia or learn more about the environment by crafting mobiles and bracelets from recycled paper or taking nature walks in the surrounding rain forest.
Diversity is key to keeping children occupied and entertained and parents relaxed and happy. The Den at Soneva Fushi is guaranteed to deliver!
Ifuru Island Maldives has announced that the brand-new Water Park Facilities at the Coconut Kids Club are now officially open for guests. The much-anticipated launch on November 1, 2024, marks a new chapter in family-friendly entertainment at the resort.
Designed for children aged 4 to 12, the Coconut Kids Club now boasts a vibrant water park complete with interactive splash zones and playful water play areas. These exciting additions provide a safe and engaging space where children can enjoy endless aquatic adventures, while parents relax and unwind in the sun.
Alongside the new water park, the Coconut Kids Club continues to offer a daily schedule of fun and educational activities, including arts and crafts, games, and creative projects, offering children enriching experiences throughout their stay.
“We’re delighted with the overwhelmingly positive feedback from our guests,” said Marcel Sawyer, General Manager of Ifuru Island Maldives. “It’s wonderful to see families creating joyful memories together, and we’re thrilled to be part of that experience.”
The new water park is now open, inviting young guests to explore and enjoy, as Coconut Kids Club fosters a vibrant, family-oriented atmosphere where quality time and unforgettable moments are central.
Prepare for an unforgettable escape at the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, where Halloween festivities blend seamlessly with luxurious experiences. This year, the resort elevates the excitement with a full week of thrilling adventures, immersive Halloween-themed activities, and fun for the whole family. With an exclusive “Kids Stay & Eat Free” offer, there’s no better time to plan a family getaway at one of the top family resorts in the Maldives.
Beginning on 28th October, the Halloween festivities kick off with the Creepy Food Challenge at Anchorage, where guests can sample creatively eerie dishes that will excite both kids and adults alike. For those with an artistic flair, there will be a Halloween Sip & Paint session at Kakuni, allowing guests to sip cocktails while crafting their very own Halloween masterpiece. As night falls, Anchorage Bar will transform into a magical wonderland for the Witches & Wizards Disco Night, where the whole family can dance under the stars in costume, fully embracing the festive spirit of Halloween in paradise.
On 29th October, guests can dive into the day with Aqua Aerobics at the main pool, where spooky costumes and devil horns are encouraged! After splashing around, the fun continues with the Wrap the Mummy Station at Anchorage Bar, where participants can channel their inner mummy in this playful challenge. As the evening draws near, attendees can prepare for the spectacular Avatar Performance at Anchorage Bar, a show that will captivate guests with its mysterious, otherworldly magic.
30th October welcomes the Day of Vampires and Devils, starting with a special themed breakfast, where guests can snap a photo with a vampire. The eerie vibes continue in the afternoon with the Vampire Face Paint Station at Anchorage Bar, allowing kids (and adults) to transform into their favourite Halloween characters, complete with candy vampire teeth. The night promises to be unforgettable with a Vampire Pop-Up Performance and Karaoke session at Anchorage Bar, inviting guests to unleash their inner creatures of the night.
Halloween itself, 31st October, marks the pinnacle of the celebration, with the entire resort embracing a spooky atmosphere. The day begins with a ghostly surprise as haunting characters roam the resort for the Halloween Ghost Cosplay during breakfast, creating perfect photo opportunities for families. Later, guests can join the Pumpkin Carving session at Anchorage, where both kids and adults can showcase their creative skills. As the sun sets, the festivities reach their peak with the Thriller Night Flash Mob and DJ party at Anchorage Bar, followed by a hair-raising visit to the Haunted House, open from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm—perfect for families who love a good scare!
The evening culminates with a lavish Hollow Beach Buffet, where families can enjoy a mouthwatering spread of Halloween-inspired dishes while soaking in live music under the Maldivian sky.
Throughout the week, the Kids Club will be buzzing with special Halloween-themed activities, including pirate sword-making, “Find Jack Sparrow” treasure hunts, Halloween mocktail potion making, creepy cupcake decoration, and fun-filled pool parties, ensuring the little ones are fully immersed in the spooky spirit.
Celebration
Festive journey of luxury and sustainability: holiday highlights at Sun Siyam Iru Veli and Vilu Reef
The festive season at Sun Siyam Iru Veli and Sun Siyam Vilu Reef promises unforgettable experiences for guests of all ages. Both resorts have curated distinct themes to celebrate the holidays, focusing on transformation and sustainability while providing luxurious experiences for their visitors.
Sun Siyam Iru Veli: Metamorphosis – A Festive Transformation
This year, Sun Siyam Iru Veli’s festive theme, “Metamorphosis,” symbolises growth and renewal. The resort has embraced a journey of transformation, offering elevated services and experiences while maintaining the core values that its guests cherish. From family-friendly Christmas fun to wellness journeys and a celebratory Christmas dinner, every aspect of this festive period is designed to showcase the beauty of change and renewal. Christmas Day activities include a Whale and manta shark snorkeling trip in the morning, followed by Santa’s arrival at Dolphin Beach, and a Christmas Cinema Paradise for Kids & Family at Chemistry in the evening. Adults can also start their Christmas morning with yoga and pilates classes as part of a wellness activity.
For New Year’s Eve, DJ Toni Mesas will set the stage for an energetic evening. An international DJ from Barcelona, Toni is known for his love of electronic music, particularly techno house. Following his performance, the Wildfire Arts Collective, premier cirque-style entertainers from Los Angeles, will deliver a breathtaking fire show during the cocktail party and New Year’s countdown.
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef: Island Harmony – Eco-Friendly Festive Splendour
At Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, this year’s theme, “Island Harmony,” embraces an eco-friendly celebration with a focus on cultural sustainability. The island will be adorned with decorations made from coconut, bamboo, and palm leaves, reflecting the resort’s commitment to eco-conscious luxury. Christmas celebrations will include Santa’s arrival at Aqua Beach, live music, and beach games for families and children, such as sand sculpting for kids and a family movie night. Island excursions, sunset fishing, and a variety of watersports will also be available.
On New Year’s Eve, DJ Cosmicatx, Saudi Arabia’s first female superstar DJ and producer, will lead the festivities with her music. Additionally, the world-renowned LED artists, SuperLEDShow, will perform mesmerising acts to ring in the new year. Dennis Kiss and Szulita Szekrényes will deliver electrifying, tightly-choreographed sessions mixing mind-melting projections, lights, acrobatics, and pure artistry—ensuring a memorable night for all in attendance.
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