Connect with us

News

Heinrich Morio joins Soneva as Managing Director – Maldives

Published

on

Henrich MorioMaldives.net.mv – Soneva Resorts and Residences, the world-leading luxury resort operator, has announced that Heinrich Morio has joined the company as the new Managing Director – Maldives, responsible for overseeing its flagship resort Soneva Fushi as well as its latest luxury offerings Soneva in Aqua and Soneva Jani.

A dual US and German National, Heinrich’s hospitality career spans more than 35 years, most of which have been spent in the management team of some of the world’s most renowned luxury hotels and resorts.

Prior to joining Soneva, Heinrich was the General Manager (opening) of the Palazzo Versace Hotel in Dubai, and formerly the General Manager of the Burj al Arab, as well as the General Manager of the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, both also located in Dubai, UAE.  Before moving to the Middle East, Heinrich was the General Manager of several One & Only properties in Mauritius and Bahamas, as well as luxury resorts in the United States. He will join Soneva in July 2016.

We are very excited to have Heinrich on board with us. He has impressive hospitality experience in iconic properties around the world and we look forward to leveraging his expertise to further enhance Soneva’s service offering. He will work closely with Olivia as we ramp up to open Soneva Jani by October 2016,” said Sonu Shivdasani, Founder and CEO of Soneva Resorts.

In October 2015, Soneva welcomed Olivia Richli as the new General Manager (opening) of Soneva Jani, Soneva’s newest property in the Maldives, which is currently under construction.  The resort is being built on a large island surrounded by four smaller islands in the middle of a large, five-kilometre turquoise lagoon in the Noonu Atoll, Maldives. Four of the five islands will remain untouched so it will be, by far, the lowest density development in the Maldives. Meaning ‘wisdom’ in Sanskrit, Soneva Jani comprises 24 over water villas and 32 island villas.

The resort is surrounded by crystal clear waters, with pure white beaches, islands covered in rich tropical vegetation and set in a vast sparkling lagoon.Soneva owns and operates Soneva Fushi in the Maldives and Soneva Kiri in Thailand. Soneva in Aqua, an ultra luxurious yacht offering an experiential travel experience, was launched in the Maldives in 2015 and sails out of Soneva Fushi.

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

News

Machchafushi Island Resort integrates marine conservation, sustainable practices across operations

Published

on

Machchafushi Island Resort and Spa Maldives, part of the Centara Collection, offers an authentic Maldivian island experience that blends exceptional hospitality with dedicated environmental stewardship. Throughout the year, the resort reinforces its commitment to biodiversity protection, marine conservation, waste reduction, water management, and sustainable food practices, inviting guests to enjoy a meaningful holiday that creates lasting memories while making a positive impact.

Last year, the resort’s dedication to coral restoration and reef conservation has produced tangible results. Between March and November, the team planted five coral frames, each containing 80 coral fragments, restoring 20 to 25 square metres of reef. Throughout the year, a total of 35 frames in the coral nursery were monitored and nurtured, supporting the growth and survival of new coral fragments. With a 70% coral fragment survival rate, the resort actively cares for the surrounding lagoon, home to dozens of marine species. Guests can participate in these initiatives through coral gardening activities. In addition, guests contribute to the island’s reforestation efforts, supporting the national vision of planting five million trees across the Maldives by 2029, reflecting a long-term commitment to the environment. Programs such as World Coastal Cleanup Day include collaboration with the Dhangethi Island Council on tree planting initiatives, further strengthening environmental stewardship.

Keeping the seas clean remains a top priority, with regular lagoon clean-ups helping to preserve the pristine waters. Over 25 kilograms of mixed waste were removed during a recent clean-up, ensuring the lagoon remains vibrant and healthy. On land, responsible waste management practices include paper straws, bamboo cutlery, and reusable water bottles, eliminating single-use plastics entirely. Between January and October 2025, the resort recycled 6,305 kilograms of glass, 6,325 kilograms of plastic, and 5,795 kilograms of metal, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable environment.

Water conservation is another key focus, with the resort’s Reverse Osmosis Plant producing 420 tons per 24 hours and daily water usage averaging 220 litres per guest. Reuse and recycling initiatives have grown significantly, with 3,000 cubic metres of water reused and 3,932 cubic metres recycled between January and October 2025, compared to 150 and 607 cubic metres in the previous year. Sustainable food practices are prioritised, with hydroponically grown produce including a variety of fruits, herbs, and vegetables accounting for 7 percent of onsite sourcing.

Sustainability is seamlessly integrated into every aspect of the guest experience. From overwater villas overlooking crystal-clear lagoons to immersive opportunities in marine and island conservation, guests can connect deeply with the natural beauty of the Maldives while making a positive impact. The island offers a truly authentic experience, where each moment is meaningful, and every encounter draws visitors closer to the sea, the land, and the thriving ecosystem.

Rainwater is carefully collected and stored, with both rainwater and treated water from the Sewage Treatment Plant efficiently used to irrigate gardens, nourishing plants while conserving freshwater resources. Lighting along the overwater walkways is fully powered by solar energy, reducing carbon footprint and reliance on conventional electricity.

Organic waste generated on-site is converted into rich, organic fertiliser through a composting system, which nourishes cultivated crops and garden plants while supporting sustainable agriculture in the surrounding community through donations to local farmers.

Within the villas, environmentally conscious choices are implemented, such as ceramic soap dispensers for guest amenities to minimise single-use plastics. Water boilers integrated with air conditioning units equipped with heat pump systems enable efficient production of hot water while optimising energy use.

Through these combined efforts, the resort not only minimises its environmental impact but also nurtures a lasting connection between guests, the community, and the natural world, creating experiences that are both memorable and responsible.

Continue Reading

Featured

Dhigali Maldives closes festive season with dynamic New Year’s Eve party

Published

on

The festive season at Dhigali Maldives concluded on a vibrant and memorable note, offering guests a series of celebrations that blended tradition, creativity, and island spirit. From a uniquely Maldivian take on Santa’s arrival to thematic experiences inspired by the elements, the resort transformed into a setting designed for joy and togetherness.

Christmas Eve brought guests to Capers, where a traditional buffet featuring a wide range of global flavours was accompanied by live music that set the festive tone. On Christmas Day, Santa Claus made his entrance not by sleigh but aboard a traditional bokkura, a gesture that delighted families gathered along the shoreline.

In the days leading up to New Year’s Eve, Dhigali Maldives presented a programme themed around “The Four Elements of Nature.” The series began on 27 December with Earth, featuring a jungle trail, grounded yoga sessions, and spa treatments. On 28 December, the celebrations moved to East for Water, highlighted by a floating bar and zorb ball acrobats performing across the pool. Air followed on 29 December with an aerial silk performance on the beach, and Fire brought the energy to a peak on 30 December with traditional Bodu Beru drumming and a fire dance illuminating the night sky.

The festivities culminated on New Year’s Eve at East Beach, where all four elements converged for an immersive celebration. Fire dancers, live performers, and a pyrotechnic display lit up the sky in vibrant colours. Hungarian DJ Regán Lili headlined the night with a set described as electric, her soundscapes resonating across the island and drawing guests to the dance floor as they welcomed the new year. It marked a striking finale to a season of celebration at Dhigali Maldives.

Continue Reading

Love

Valentine’s at Milaidhoo: Collection of intimate island experiences

Published

on

In the heart of the Maldives, love finds its true rhythm. At Milaidhoo, a sanctuary for couples of all ages, romance isn’t forced, it’s allowed to unfold naturally. Whether you’re beneath a blanket of stars, beside the gentle waves of the ocean or in the peace of your own private hideaway, each moment is designed to help you reconnect with yourself, your partner and the unspoiled nature that surrounds you.

This Valentine’s, Milaidhoo invites you to write your own love story through an exclusive collection of experiences, each crafted to celebrate the beauty of togetherness.

Culinary moments

Lagoon Breakfast

Start your day in the most serene way with an indulgent breakfast served by the ocean, right in front of your villa. The soft morning light, calm waters and a bottle of Ruinart Rosé set the perfect tone for a day of love.

Chocolate-Making Class

Indulge your senses in a private chocolate-making experience with our talented pastry chef. Learn the art of crafting delicate chocolates, paired with M. Chapoutier Banyuls Bila-Haut Rimage for the perfect finish.

Sandbank Picnic

Escape to a secluded sandbank for a romantic picnic, complete with gourmet delights, chilled rosé and breathtaking views of the endless horizon.

Valentine’s Beach Dinner on 14th February 2026

Let the stars be your ceiling as you enjoy a four-course dinner by the ocean. From a 10-rose bouquet to champagne and a romantic flower bath awaiting you back at your villa, every detail is designed to make this night unforgettable.

Ocean Stories

Beneath the Blue

Swim hand-in-hand through the thriving marine world of Milaidhoo’s house reef, where colourful fish and graceful corals create an underwater backdrop for your love story.

Private Cruise on Saima

Set sail aboard Saima, Milaidhoo’s handcrafted Maldivian dhoni, for a private cruise through tranquil waters. The experience can be elevated with champagne and gourmet canapés.

Private Cinema on the Sandbank

Create your own private movie night beneath the stars. Soft sand beneath your feet, your favourite film playing and the ocean as your soundtrack. You can even add dinner to make the evening even more special.

Serenity Spa

Reconnection Ritual

A deeply rejuvenating 120-minute experience designed to bring you closer together. From a mindful arrival ritual to a signature couple’s massage using rose oil and finishing with a moment of recommitment over rosebud tea, this is the ultimate expression of love and connection.

Partner Yoga

Support each other in synchronised yoga poses designed to nurture trust, balance and connection.

Couples Floating Sound Bath

Float on warm waters as the soothing sounds of singing bowls and gongs deepen your connection, helping you to harmonise body, mind and spirit.

At Milaidhoo, Valentine’s isn’t just a day, it’s a feeling that lingers in every experience, every moment and every sunset. Amidst turquoise waters, white sands and the gentle hum of island life, couples are invited to slow down and rediscover what truly matters.

This Valentine’s, let Milaidhoo be the island where your love story is written.

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending

Copyright all rights reserved by Maldives Promotion House 2023.