Featured
Soneva Stars brings world’s most sparkling talent to Soneva resorts
Every year is filled with exceptional experiences and the wonder of discovery at Soneva.
Spanning all of Soneva’s world-leading resorts in the Maldives and Thailand, Soneva Stars is a new, year-round calendar of acclaimed visiting experts and one-of-a-kind activities, ensuring that Soneva’s guests will always be inspired and enthralled, no matter when they visit.
Soneva Stars will focus on five key periods during the year, including February half term, the Easter break, August holidays, October half term and the end of year Festive holidays.
The new, annual programme promises an eclectic line-up of thought-provoking experts and rare experiences from across a thrilling spectrum of interests and disciplines – from best-selling authors, daring explorers, and sporting heroes to leading wellness practitioners, motivational speakers and Michelin-starred chefs.
Throughout the year, guests are guaranteed to encounter bespoke experiences with Soneva Stars’ fascinating array of talent, whether those are hosted dinners, engaging talks or enriching one-on-one sessions.
“By curating an annual calendar of acclaimed visiting experts and bespoke experiences, the new Soneva Stars programme is a natural extension of our ethos of ‘intelligent luxury’,” Sonu Shivdasani, founder and CEO of Soneva, was quoted in a statement, as saying.
“With a focus on the busiest periods across our three Soneva resorts in the Maldives and Thailand, our guests can be assured that they will find the most engaging, diverse and memorable experiences from the moment they arrive.”
Past Soneva residencies have been hand-picked from the world’s most eminent experts in their chosen fields.
Celebrated chefs have included the two Michelin-starred Tom Aikens, Spain’s one Michelin-starred Kiko Moya, and three Michelin-starred Julien Royer, co-founder of Asia’s best restaurant, Odette.
From the world of sport and fitness, Soneva has welcomed champion freediver Umberto Pelizzari, rugby legend Jason Robinson, and football stars Mikael Silvestre and Karina LeBlanc.
From art, culture and science, visiting experts have included celebrated Italian glass artist Lino Tagliapietra, acclaimed astronomer Massimo Terenghi and best-selling author and historian Peter Frankopan.
From the realm of wellness and healing, leading practitioners Sandra Laznik and ayurvedic expert Dr GN Lakshman have enjoyed residences at Soneva’s resorts.
In 2020, Soneva Stars is set to welcome a bigger and brighter line up than ever before.
Pioneering Danish chef Jonas Astrup will bring the best of Nordic cuisine to Soneva Fushi in March, whilst two-starred Cédric Vongerichten will combine modern French and Indonesian flavours at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani in April.
Acclaimed wine expert Jancis Robinson will be sharing her extensive knowledge with guests at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani in March and April. Considered the world’s most influential wine critic, she will be guiding guests through the essentials of oenology via the array of vintages in Soneva’s extensive wine cellars.
Throughout the year, celebrated yoga practitioner Pawan Kumar will be in residence at Soneva Jani – having honed his craft in India’s ashrams and with yoga masters in the Himalayas, he views yoga as a science, and the key to unlocking a life of peace, bliss and miracles.
Soneva currently runs two resorts in the Maldives, Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani, and luxury yacht, Soneva in Aqua. The world-leading luxury resort operator also operates Soneva Kiri resort in Thailand.
In 1995, the award-winning luxury resort Soneva Fushi set the standard for all desert island barefoot luxury hideaways in the Maldives. Located in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Soneva Fushi pairs Robinson Crusoe fantasy with intelligent luxury.
Sixty-two private villas with their own stretch of beach are hidden amongst dense foliage within touching distance of a pristine coral reef. Eight new one- and two-bedroom Water Retreats, perched above the turquoise depths of the Indian Ocean, are scheduled to open to guests by May. Intuitive service is provided by Mr./Ms. Friday butlers.
Highlights include the open-air Cinema Paradiso, counting Saturn’s rings in the high-tech Observatory, the home-made chocolate and ice cream rooms, five hundred wines to choose from, six different restaurants and countless destination dining options.
In November 2015, Soneva launched a floating villa concept, Soneva in Aqua, a treasure trove children’s Den and a multi-purpose facility encompasses a glass gallery, boutique and studio where guests can learn the art of glass blowing.
Opened in December 2016, Soneva Jani is Soneva’s newest property and the world-leading luxury hotel group’s second resort in the Maldives.
Soneva Jani is located on the island of Medhufaru within a 5.6 kilometre lagoon in the Noonu atoll, and has uninterrupted ocean views in all directions. The lagoon is 35 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport and one hour by speedboat from Soneva Fushi.
Meaning ‘wisdom’ in Sanskrit, Soneva Jani currently comprises 24 overwater villas and one island villa, with additional villas to be built in phase two. Five islands encircle the lagoon, each one with soft white sands and covered in rich tropical vegetation. Four of the five islands will remain untouched, making Soneva Jani the lowest density development in the Maldives. The overwater villas are spaced across the expansive lagoon, offering privacy and extensive views over the Maldives’ turquoise waters. The island villas will be tucked into the lush greenery, providing the ultimate privacy, and all within steps of the beach.
Soneva Jani’s main guest facilities are located at The Gathering, the heart of the overwater villas. This dramatic three story structure is home to the main dining outlets, in addition to the Soneva Spa, library, retail area and wine cellar. It is located next to the Maldives’ first overwater Observatory.
Facilities on the island include the overwater Cinema Paradiso, the Eco Centro Waste-to-Wealth centre, organic gardens, tennis courts, water sports champa and Zuhair’s Beach on a desert island in the lagoon.
Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives has unveiled 40 newly constructed Grand Beach Suites with Private Pools, located on the exclusive Dream Island. These luxurious 101 sqm suites combine contemporary elegance with Maldivian charm, providing a serene retreat surrounded by lush gardens and turquoise waters.
Situated along the pristine shores of Dream Island, the Grand Beach Suites offer an exceptional blend of style and comfort, accommodating up to four adults or two adults with three children. Designed by Sun Siyam Resorts’ design and construction teams, the interiors feature sleek, earthy tones and a calming island ambiance. The refined design captures the essence of Maldivian allure while maintaining a chic, modern aesthetic.
Each Grand Beach Suite includes a private pool, surrounded by lush tropical gardens and offering stunning views of the turquoise Maldivian waters. The spacious layout features a convertible extra room that can serve as a cozy bedroom for children, separate from the main living area. The open bathroom concept offers luxury with an outdoor bathtub and rain shower, complemented by high-quality toiletries and thoughtful amenities. Guests can also enjoy the expansive outdoor terrace deck, an ideal spot to relax by the private pool and take in the panoramic ocean views accompanied by the soothing sound of nearby waves.
Hassan Adil, General Manager at Sun Siyam Olhuveli, expressed enthusiasm about the new suites, stating, “These new Grand Beach Suites with Private Pools offer guests a heightened sense of tranquility and style. Our Planning Department’s team has masterfully captured the essence of the Maldives, creating spaces that blend nature with ultimate comfort and sophistication.”
Whether relaxing by the pool or unwinding on the private beach, guests of the Grand Beach Suites are offered unparalleled privacy and comfort. Designed for honeymooners, couples, and families, these suites provide the ultimate escape for those seeking a refined and immersive Maldivian experience.
The festive season at Amilla Maldives promises to be an unforgettable celebration, blending the magic of the holidays with the vibrant energy of a 70s-inspired disco theme. From December 20th, 2024, through the New Year and into early January, the resort transforms into a retro wonderland with ‘Disco Fever @ Amilla,’ offering guests a unique array of activities, events, and dining experiences designed to create lasting memories.
Guests can begin their days with a luxurious breakfast at Fresh, followed by an assortment of lunch options at Emperor’s Beach Club, Joe’s, or Fresh. Evenings bring a choice of diverse culinary experiences at restaurants such as East, Barolo, Tessera, and Feeling Koi, except on special event nights, when themed dinners take centre stage.
Each night offers the enchantment of outdoor cinema at Amilla Odeon, where families can enjoy a movie under the stars accompanied by popcorn and refreshments. For those seeking action and adventure, the Vibe Tribe program ensures endless fun, providing a mix of energetic activities like beach volleyball and relaxing pastimes such as board games, catering to teens and adults alike.
The celebrations culminate on New Year’s Eve with a spectacular disco-themed party. Guests are invited to dress in 70s-inspired outfits and enjoy live entertainment from Björn Again, the renowned ABBA tribute band. As the clock strikes midnight, the festivities continue with an exclusive after-party at Tessera, ensuring a dazzling start to 2025.
Christmas at Amilla Maldives is equally magical, with highlights including an underwater disco led by Santa Claus at the main pool, a festive brunch, and a lively ‘Carol-oke’ event. Throughout the season, themed nights and special activities abound, from traditional Maldivian dinners to fashion shows, creative workshops, and sporting events such as water polo, beach badminton, and football matches.
The resort also offers unique culinary events, featuring wine pairings, BBQ nights, and a New Year’s Day brunch complete with mermaids and mimosas. Children are treated to an array of engaging activities, including reindeer cookie making, mocktail sessions, costume contests, and arts and crafts, ensuring fun for the whole family.
Amilla Maldives invites its guests to embrace the retro spirit of the season, creating moments that shine as brightly as the iconic disco ball. This festive season promises to be a celebration like no other, filled with music, joy, and sparkle.
The Nautilus Maldives has announced an extraordinary partnership with GlobeAir, Europe’s leading private jet operator. This exclusive collaboration introduces GlobeAir’s long-haul private jet services to the Maldives, setting a new benchmark for bespoke travel and offering an unparalleled journey into the world of ultimate luxury.
By joining forces, The Nautilus and GlobeAir aim to redefine bespoke travel, combining their expertise to deliver highly personalised and unforgettable experiences for the most discerning global travellers. This partnership seamlessly merges two realms of exceptional luxury, elevating both the travel experience and the destination itself.
GlobeAir’s newly launched long-haul private jet services to the Maldives reimagine private aviation with tailored itineraries, exceptional service, and unmatched comfort. From the moment passengers board, their journey is designed to reflect the elegance and exclusivity synonymous with The Nautilus. This collaboration exemplifies The Nautilus’s commitment to absolute freedom and bespoke ultra-luxury hospitality, where every detail is meticulously curated to ensure an unforgettable experience. Together, The Nautilus and GlobeAir invite guests to embark on a seamless transition from takeoff to the barefoot luxury of the Maldives.
The Exclusive Nautilus Experience:
- A Seamless Voyage: Guests begin their journey with a round-trip aboard a GlobeAir private jet, where every detail is crafted to provide ultimate comfort and personalised service.
- A Timeless Stay in Paradise: Upon arrival at The Nautilus, time slows down, and bespoke experiences take centre stage. With only 26 ultra-luxury boho-chic houses and residences, each space offers complete privacy and is tailored to individual preferences.
- Complimentary Cinema Under the Stars: Guests can indulge in an enchanting beachside cinema experience, featuring a custom bokkura setup and the soothing sounds of the Indian Ocean. The evening is complete with a bottle of fine champagne, blending barefoot sophistication with the magic of the Maldives.
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