Featured
As world shifts away from city centre working, could this be world’s greatest commute?
An independent survey, recently commissioned with over 500 senior decision-makers at companies, found that 73 per cent expect businesses to downsize to smaller office spaces, as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
This seismic shift in the way we operate on a day to day business has started to pose significant questions for both employers and employees alike and with 58 per cent of business acknowledging that working from home will soon become the ‘norm’, the home we work in will become all the more important.
For some, the latest remote working revolution could mean the difference between tubes, buses, taxis, cars and trains or this – the world’s greatest commute!
Soneva, the award-winning luxury resort operator, transforms the ‘working from home’ concept with its villa ownership option. Those choosing the ownership option will be able to reside on the island and fully immerse themselves in its lifestyle, enjoying a sense of tranquillity and community, experienced by neighbouring likeminded owners.

Inspired by the surroundings, each villa has abundant natural light, lush greenery and features Soneva’s signature details including an open-air bathroom, private swimming pool and your very own slide to the ocean.

All villas are sustainably built, using reclaimed and recycled materials and equipped with state of the art energy and waste saving technology, as well as high-speed WIFI. Non-tropical wood is used throughout such as eucalyptus, oak, driftwood, cedar and pine.

Villa owners share income by taking part in the Villa Rental Programme, allowing for a return on investment.
They also benefit from exclusive membership to the Soneva Club, discounts on flight transfers, special offers at other Soneva properties, food and beverage discounts at the resort’s restaurants and bars, and discounts on resort facilities.

Soneva is a pioneering family of hospitality properties, offering holistic encounters in luxurious and inspiring environments – from world-class resorts to outstanding natural locations.
Soneva Fushi, Soneva Jani and Soneva in Aqua in the Maldives, and Soneva Kiri in Thailand rebuke the traditional concept of luxury and instead promise the luxury of time, purity and solitude.
Every day, guests are encouraged to discover sandy feet, inspired minds and full hearts. Combining luxury with a conscientious approach to sustainability and the environment, and proactively changing the nature of hospitality, it delivers intuitive service and meaningful experiences to the guests.
Soneva is the only company in the Maldives to sell property to foreign investors. Since 2011, Soneva has sold 30 villas to 27 owners who come from the UK, France, Denmark, Japan, Germany, UAE, Russia, China, Sweden and Switzerland, Canada and Thailand.
For Soneva Villa Ownership enquiries, please contact Roz Colthart, Area Director, Soneva Villa Ownership, at: roz@soneva.com.
Featured
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives aligns festive events with World of Care commitments
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives will mark the festive season with a programme that combines charitable initiatives with its sustainability commitments. Guests will be invited to donate, run, paddle and plant in support of local community and environmental projects, alongside dining experiences that highlight Maldivian produce.
Under its World of Care commitments, the resort has adopted initiatives to improve the school experience for children at R. Maduvvari School on the neighbouring island and to protect the surrounding marine ecosystem. Participation in the season’s activities will contribute directly to these programmes.
From 25 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, guests may purchase wrapped gifts from a Christmas Charity Surprise Tree, with all proceeds directed to the resort’s charitable causes.
On 27 December 2025, Euro Divers will lead a coral-planting session within the house reef. The activity forms part of an ongoing conservation effort to strengthen reef resilience by increasing coral diversity through the careful planting of hardy coral fragments.
Seasalt restaurant will host a “Boat to Table” beachfront barbecue on 28 December 2025 and 4 January 2026. The buffet will feature seafood such as giant tuna sashimi, ceviche and grilled fish prepared from the day’s catch supplied by local fishermen, reflecting the resort’s focus on local sourcing and support for the Raa Atoll community.
A Charity Kayak Race will take place on 30 December 2025 and 5 January 2026. Entry will be by voluntary donation, with funds supporting enhancements at the R. Maduvvari pre-school.
On 2 January 2026, the programme will conclude with a Charity Island Fun Run around the island. Branded t-shirts will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the resort’s community initiatives.
Awards
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo wins triple honours at World Luxury Awards 2025
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort has received three titles at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, named Luxury Adults Only Resort, Luxury Island Resort, and Luxury Cultural Resort in the Indian Ocean.
The awards highlight the brand’s focus on locally rooted hospitality, with stays shaped by place, service and community. The resort presents Maldivian culture through curated experiences, pairing contemporary comforts with island traditions.
Positioned as an adults-only retreat, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo integrates culinary influences and cultural programming to offer guests a stay informed by the rhythm of local life and delivered with consistent service standards.
“These awards are a true reflection of our team’s passion for creating experiences that feel both local and memorable. Every detail, from the design to the service, is guided by the authenticity that defines Mercure. We are grateful to our guests for being part of this journey,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, honouring properties that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and celebrate diversity across the travel sector.
Awards
Hat-trick for Pullman Maldives Maamutaa at 2025 World Luxury Awards
Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has received three honours at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, securing titles for Best Luxury All-Inclusive Hotel, Best Luxury Wellness Hotel, and Best Luxury Family Hotel in the Indian Ocean.
The awards underscore the resort’s approach to experience-led hospitality, combining design, wellbeing and guest engagement. The recognition also reflects Pullman’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity and sustainability, which sit at the centre of the brand’s strategy.
Since opening, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has developed an all-inclusive offering that brings together adventure, wellness and a close connection to the natural environment. Its portfolio includes an underwater villa, wellness concepts and family-oriented experiences.
“We are honoured to receive this recognition at the 2025 World Luxury Awards. These awards celebrate the heart of what we do—creating inspiring moments for every guest, whether they come to reconnect, recharge, or simply play. This achievement belongs to our incredible team, whose passion and dedication make Pullman Maldives Maamutaa what it is today,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, highlighting hotels that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and demonstrate innovation in service and design.
-
News1 week agoAutograph Collection Hotels debuts in Maldives with The Halcyon Private Isles: Signature retreat of individuality, immersion
-
Awards1 week agoCentara Mirage Lagoon Maldives wins top family hotel honour at Little Steps Family Travel Awards
-
News1 week agoSO/ Maldives rolls out red carpet for spectacular festive season
-
Action1 week agoAyada Maldives: Sanctuary where ocean conservation shapes every experience
-
Drink1 week agoOZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI celebrated for wine perfection at global awards
-
Action6 days agoNew Year’s voyage of indulgence: InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau’s private yacht experience with Chef Tom Aikens
-
News1 week agoThe Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands invites guests to Celestial Festive journey beyond horizon
-
News1 week agoThe Standard, Maldives launches ‘We Got You Covered’ campaign to ensure seamless stay, rain or shine


