News
Heinrich Morio joins Soneva as Managing Director – Maldives

Maldives.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.
Drink
Cheers at sea: Maldivian Dhoni delivers sundowners to overwater villas at Avani+ Fares Maldives

Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort is offering a unique take on island hospitality with the introduction of the Ambaa Adventure. This innovative service features a traditional Maldivian dhoni sailing across the crystal-clear waters of Fares to deliver handcrafted cocktails and mocktails directly to the private overwater pool decks of guests.
Named after the Dhivehi word for ‘cheers,’ Ambaa embodies a celebration of life, connection, and unforgettable moments. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm, guests staying in the resort’s Over Water Villas or in the exclusive two- and three-bedroom Sunset Over Water Pool Residences can watch for the signature yellow sail of the Ambaa boat gliding across the turquoise lagoon. Styled after the traditional Maldivian fishing and transport vessels, the boat pays homage to local heritage with a modern flair.
As the floating bar makes its rounds, guests can summon it by raising a dedicated Ambaa flag from their private deck. Once docked, an onboard bartender prepares complimentary cocktails and mocktails bursting with tropical flavours. This distinctive experience is set against the backdrop of Avani+ Fares Maldives, recently named Best Dive Resort 2024 by Travel Trade Maldives, further enhancing the island’s appeal for diving enthusiasts and lovers of oceanic exploration.
Signature beverages include The Green of the Fares, a bright blend of basil, lime, apple, and gin that mirrors the island’s lush scenery; the Ambaa Breeze, a refreshing mix of watermelon, pineapple, lemon, ginger, and a splash of white rum; and the Fares Kurumba, a rich tribute to the Maldives’ coconut legacy, blending coconut water, Malibu, and spiced gold rum.
“With the introduction of Ambaa Adventure, the magic of Maldivian hospitality is being brought directly to our guests’ villas,” said Judd Rabbidge, General Manager of Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort. “Surrounded by the vast ocean and spectacular sunsets, this experience perfectly captures Avani’s commitment to creativity, guest engagement, and celebrating local culture.”
News
Ananea Madivaru Maldives welcomes guests

Ananea Madivaru Maldives on Wednesday commenced operations.
Christian Grage, Managing Director of DER Touristik Hotels & Resorts, stated, “We are honoured to kick off the season by opening our new ananea hotels, with ananea Madivaru Maldives being the first. I am impressed by the owner’s vision of such a unique hotel, setting new trends and standards in the Maldives.”
The 110-villa ananea Madivaru Maldives is located in the North Ari Atoll, 66km from Velana International Airport. Spanning over two islands connected by an overwater walkway, the resort boasts sandy white beaches, a vast lagoon in the middle, and a marine life rich house reef along the outer rims of the two islands.The transfer to the island is by seaplane and takes approximately 20 minutes.
Set amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of the Maldives, the environment seamlessly blends sophisticated design with a rich culture and traditions of the region. From the moment guests step foot on the resort’s grounds to the fond farewell at departure, the team curates timeless experiences focused on slow glamour and embracing life’s unhurried pace, rather than the fleeting glitz and glamour of modern demands.
Upon arrival at Madivaru island, guests are warmly greeted by a friendly team. This island serves as the heart of the resort’s offerings, boasting a 24-hour reception, the rejuvenating Kandu Spa, Dive Centre, Kids Club, Water Sports Centre, and a selection of seven restaurants and two bars. The island features two swimming pools, one specifically designed for children and families, and the other more suited for adults. A poolside bar and pizzeria complement an infinity pool, while luxurious 2 & 3-Bedroom Pool residences, and beach and water villas with own private pools await guests seeking ultimate relaxation.
Connecting the two islands is a scenic walkway leading to the resort’s signature restaurant and wine cellar, renowned for offering the finest dining experiences. On the smaller island, Kuda Rah, guests discover Beach Pool Villas and Deluxe Water Pool Villas, along with an additional restaurant and the Recreation Centre, completing their idyllic retreat.
The ananea Madivaru Maldives is more than just a stay – it’s an escape into the beauty and luxury of an unspoilt paradise.
Featured
Celebrate Easter at Noku Maldives, Vignette Collection

This Easter, guests are invited to immerse themselves in quiet luxury and timeless beauty at Noku Maldives, Vignette Collection. Nestled in the untouched serenity of Noonu Atoll, this island sanctuary offers a space for renewal, a reconnection with nature, and an opportunity to embrace mindful moments of tranquillity.
As the first light of dawn stretches across the horizon, guests can begin their day with sunrise yoga on Palms Beach or a guided meditation at the Yoga Pavilion, where the rhythmic sounds of the ocean encourage deep relaxation. Throughout the day, a thoughtfully curated selection of experiences awaits—ranging from the gentle art of Easter egg painting, where creativity flourishes in serenity, to a Maldivian cooking class that brings the island’s vibrant flavours to life.
As dusk settles and soft pastels grace the sky, the day transitions into a serene evening with sunset sound healing, complemented by a tasting of delicate herbal infusions—each sip a tribute to the island’s natural bounty. Evenings at Noku Maldives are marked by exquisite dining under the stars, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients are crafted into gourmet masterpieces, perfectly paired with fine wines.
On Easter Sunday, guests can partake in a day filled with whimsical island traditions. A magical island-wide egg hunt, led by the Easter Bunny through palm-fringed pathways, promises hidden treasures and joyful surprises for all ages.
Whether seeking peaceful solitude in a private overwater villa, restorative spa rituals beneath the open sky, or simply the gentle embrace of the ocean breeze, Noku Maldives offers a setting where time slows and every moment is a celebration of renewal.
This Easter, guests are invited to create lasting memories through the island’s pristine beauty, curated experiences, and understated elegance.
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