News
SLOW LIFE Symposium 2014 to be held in Maldives in November

Maldives.net.mv – It has been announced that the 2014 SLOW LIFE Symposium at Soneva Fushi will focus on the concept of Planetary Boundaries (as pioneered by the Stockholm Resilience Centre), exploring how we can accelerate and scale initiatives like “Natural Capital” and “Social Capital” to shape the ground rules for tomorrow’s capitalism.
Now in its fifth year, the conference brings together a group of 30 eminent representatives from the global world of business, science, travel and education for a four day symposium (November 13-16) and promises to, once again, provide an inspiring environment for collaboration with some of the world’s most influential minds.
Organised by the SLOW LIFE Foundation and hosted by the Soneva Group, the symposium’s express aim is to forge new partnerships and collaborations for the year ahead. The event acts as a hub where business leaders, scientists, NGOs, academics and policy makers discuss key issues. This year these issues will include food, farming, fishing, the health of the oceans and the role of finance and philanthropy in scaling solutions globally.
During the event, attendees will look to explore the following important questions: How can financial and economic systems place our world on a more sustainable footing? How do we balance the often-competing needs of different stakeholders when it comes to land use? How can innovation in governance and investment improve and cement our oceans’ long-term health? How can we promote sustainable fisheries and reef restoration in the Maldives? How can we increase the proportion of philanthropic funds dedicated to environmental causes?
For the second time, the event will be chaired by Jonathon Porritt, Founder Director of Forum for the Future and an original pioneer of sustainable business, who said:
“This unique event brings together an extraordinary group of people who believe in the necessity of action, and it’s an absolute privilege to have been asked to host again this year, particularly as last year was such an inspiration. The incredible investment by the SLOW LIFE Foundation allows us maximum opportunity to have essential conversations that will, and have, lead directly to positive change.”
All the Symposium participants are known champions of environmental causes and each share an unshakeable belief that when we join forces, it is possible to make a big impact on environmental problems in a shorter period of time and bring about transformational change.
This change is tangible, proven through the successful initiatives established as a direct result of past symposiums, such as WHOLE WORLD Water which takes the Soneva model of filtering and bottling drinking water on site and extends it to the whole of the hospitality industry. With members contributing 10% of water revenues, this initiative has the potential to raise $1bn to provide safe drinking water and basic sanitation services globally.
The event will take place at the resort Soneva Fushi in the Maldives, a Biosphere UNESCO protected jewel of biodiversity with a vibrant reef, a colony of nesting turtles, and a world-class observatory.
Soneva Fushi has a 70KW solar photovoltaic system and is in the process of installing a further 700KW, champions the use of natural building materials, eschews the use of plastic, produces its own drinking water, and recycles 80% of solid waste in a nation with no such municipal facilities.
Celebration
Centara Hotels & Resorts lights up Maldives with vibrant Diwali celebrations

Centara Hotels & Resorts is set to celebrate Diwali across its four properties in the Maldives – Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives, and Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection. Each resort will offer a line-up of festive programmes blending Thai hospitality with Maldivian island charm, promising memorable experiences for guests throughout the celebrations.
Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, located a short speedboat ride from Malé International Airport, offers a private island retreat featuring elegant villas, world-class dining, and the renowned SPA Cenvaree Retreat. From 20 to 24 October, guests can look forward to Diwali-themed dining and activities ranging from Indian-inspired breakfasts and vegetarian favourites to creative workshops, Rangoli art, diya lamp making, kite festivals, and a Colour Fun Run. Evenings will feature cocktail gatherings, themed dinners, live music, Bollywood karaoke, and movie nights, ending with a grand beachside celebration. Signature treatments at SPA Cenvaree Retreat, including massages and facials, will also be available from USD 230++ per person.
At Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, part of The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, the focus will be on family-friendly fun. The resort’s lively programme on 20 October will include Rangoli art, crafts at the kids’ club, a Sundance Pool Party, and a colourful Fun Run. The evening will feature a Diwali buffet illuminated by lanterns, festive décor, and live performances. Younger guests can enjoy 20% off treatments at the Candy Spa, a whimsical space offering edible-inspired experiences, hair braiding, and manicures.
Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives will host an adults-only Diwali celebration from 17 to 23 October, combining island tranquillity with festive spirit. Guests can unwind in beachfront villas or explore the underwater world while enjoying curated dining experiences, themed buffets, Bollywood karaoke, movie nights, live DJ sets, and mixology sessions. The resort will offer a sophisticated celebration where relaxation meets festive flair.
Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, part of The Centara Collection, will mark Diwali with activities on 19 and 20 October in the South Ari Atoll. Guests can take part in Rangoli sand art, henna sessions, and family games before gathering for a grand Diwali buffet featuring Indian specialities, live entertainment, and a Bollywood DJ night. With 112 beachfront and overwater villas surrounded by an award-winning house reef, the resort provides the ideal setting for guests to celebrate Diwali amidst nature and culture in harmony.
Cooking
Ifuru Island Maldives introduces Kai, blending Teppanyaki tradition with island spirit

Ifuru Island Maldives has announced the launch of Kai, a new addition to its culinary offering, introducing guests to an authentic Japanese teppanyaki dining experience infused with a Maldivian touch.
At Kai, guests gather around the communal teppan table to enjoy an evening of flavour, flair, and connection. Skilled chefs prepare the freshest seafood, meats, and vegetables with precision and artistry, transforming each meal into a captivating performance of slicing, flipping, and grilling before the guests’ eyes.
Derived from the Japanese words TEPPAN (鉄板), meaning “iron plate,” and YAKI (焼き), meaning “grilled” or “pan-fried,” teppanyaki is a celebrated culinary art that combines food and theatre. Kai brings this timeless tradition to life in an elegant, interactive setting where diners can complement their meal with sake, handcrafted cocktails, or fine wines.
Offering a Japanese-inspired tasting menu that balances tradition, creativity, and contemporary flavours, Kai invites guests on a refined gastronomic journey that celebrates connection and craftsmanship.
“Kai is all about shared moments and sensory delight,” said Marcel Sawyer, General Manager of Ifuru Island Maldives. “It’s a lively, interactive experience that perfectly complements our island’s spirit of joy and togetherness.”
Available as part of the resort’s Premium All-Inclusive offering with a supplement of USD 35++ per person, Kai promises an unforgettable dining experience set against the tranquil beauty of Ifuru Island.
Awards
Sustainability meets luxury: Reethi Faru Resort crowned LUXE Global Winner 2025

Reethi Faru Resort, located in the heart of the Maldives, has been recognised as a LUXE Global Winner 2025, earning the titles of Best Luxury Sustainable Resort in the Indian Ocean and Best Luxury Resort Globally. This accolade reflects the resort’s continued dedication to integrating eco-conscious practices with exceptional guest experiences.
Surrounded by the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean, Reethi Faru Resort has become known for its reef conservation initiatives and its commitment to renewable energy. Each stay embodies a balance between indulgence and environmental responsibility, establishing the resort as a benchmark for sustainable luxury hospitality worldwide.
Commenting on the recognition, Tanique van Dijk, Director of Sales at LUXE Global, stated that Reethi Faru Resort stands as a shining example of how true luxury can align with environmental responsibility. She noted that the resort’s vision demonstrates how sustainability and elegance can coexist seamlessly, offering guests world-class hospitality while contributing to a more sustainable future.
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