Featured
Soneva partners with iChild to introduce free experiential eco-learning resources for UK classrooms, schooling at home
Bringing the magic of the Maldives and the Soneva Academy into UK classrooms: sustainable resort brand Soneva have partnered with iChild to support the KS2 and KS3 science and geography curriculum. Each lesson has an editable PowerPoint classroom presentation with spectacular photography, animations and video clips, while accompanying teachers’ notes provide useful guidance and supporting resources.
Engaging with the Environment
Since its launch 26 years ago, Soneva has been at the forefront of the Maldives’ effort to create a more sustainable future, in the face of climate change. Through initiatives such as eliminating single-use plastics, moving towards a zero-waste philosophy, using solar power and reducing its carbon footprint, preserving the Maldives’ native biodiversity is at the heart of Soneva’s Slow Life purpose. The aim of the environmental education from the Soneva Academy is to inspire the next generation to conserve and protect the planet for the future.
Magic of the Maldives and Soneva Academy in the classroom
iChild and Soneva Academy will provide free resources to support KS2 and KS3 science and geography. Teachers and parents will have access to three real-world lessons: Explore the Coral Reefs, Plastic in our Lives and Mosquitoes.
- Lesson 1, Explore the Coral Reefs: Students will explore the coral reefs in the Maldives and discover their importance and the threats they face. They will also see how Soneva is setting up the world’s biggest coral restoration project on Soneva Fushi. School’s will also have the opportunity to adopt a coral nursery structure and will receive updates throughout the year.
- Lesson 2, Mosquitoes: Soneva has tackled the problem of mosquitoes, eliminated insecticides and increased bio-diversity in the process. In this fascinating lesson, students will gain a full understanding of one of the deadliest animals on earth.
- Lesson 3, Plastic in our Lives: Students will learn about single-use plastic and its negative impact on the environment. Plus, they will learn about the zero-waste initiatives at Soneva Fushi and how they can adopt these initiatives at home.
Special offer from Soneva and iChild
They will also extend a special offer code to parents, teachers and their school community to book a Soneva holiday and receive one complimentary Soneva Academy course per child. As part of the offer, families will enjoy complimentary daily breakfast, unlimited access to the cheese and chocolate rooms, snorkelling, movie screenings at Cinema Paradiso and one signature Soneva experience during their stay.
Haven of wonder and adventure for young guests
Soneva Jani and Soneva Fushi in the Maldives are a haven of wonder and adventure for young guests and their families, where rare experiences and enthralling activities take place in awe-inspiring natural surroundings. From the Den, which is the largest children’s club (for under 12s) in the Maldives and South Asia, through to the Soneva Academy’s educational courses (for teens), with unforgettable hands-on experiences, which will add an exciting new dimension to children’s schooling.
Founded in 1995, Soneva is an award-winning sustainable luxury resorts operator. At Soneva Fushi, Soneva Jani and Soneva in Aqua in the Maldives, and Soneva Kiri in Thailand, true ‘luxury’ is defined by peace, time and space. Each day, guests are encouraged to discover the SLOW LIFE, reconnecting with themselves and the natural world through rare, unforgettable experiences that inspire and enthral.
Soneva is a pioneer for responsible tourism, combining a conscientious, proactive approach to sustainability with exquisite luxury and intuitive personalised service. Carbon neutral since 2012, Soneva launched its Total Impact Assessment in 2016, a first for the hospitality industry, measuring its social and environmental impacts. A mandatory 2% environmental levy is added to every Soneva stay, with proceeds going towards the not-for-profit Soneva Foundation to offset both direct and indirect carbon emissions from resort activities and guest flights. The Foundation funds a range of global projects that have a positive environmental, social and economic impact.
Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi wins ‘Best Service’ at 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards
Coco Bodu Hithi, a renowned boutique resort in the Maldives celebrated for its Maldivian-inspired elegance, has received recognition at the 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence.
This prestigious accolade honours outstanding quality across recommended properties worldwide and serves as a trusted benchmark for travellers and industry professionals alike. Coco Bodu Hithi was awarded the title of ‘Best Service’ by Condé Nast Johansens for its exceptional hospitality, which seamlessly blends serene surroundings with meticulous, personalised service.
Additionally, the resort was recently recognised in the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards as one of the top resorts in the Indian Ocean, cementing its position as a leader in luxury travel. Offering a thoughtfully curated guest experience, Coco Bodu Hithi continues to set itself apart within the industry.
The resort also excels in culinary innovation, boasting four exceptional restaurants. Renowned Michelin-starred chefs frequently collaborate with Group Culinary Director and Michelin-starred chef Martin Cahill to craft exquisite dining experiences, reflecting Coco Bodu Hithi’s unwavering commitment to service excellence and world-class gastronomy.
Drink
Cocktail art meets tropical bliss: Tao Zrafi transforms Oaga Art Resort’s Sobi Bar
Oaga Art Resort has transformed its Sobi Bar into a Mixology Garden, showcasing a collaboration with internationally acclaimed Beverage Artist and Netflix’s ‘Drink Masters’ finalist, Tao Zrafi.
Far from the typical poolside bar, the revamped Sobi Bar offers a unique experience where artistic cocktails take centre stage. Standard drinks are replaced with Tao Zrafi’s creations, which expertly blend local Maldivian flavours with surprising twists, providing a sensory journey for visitors.
Each cocktail at Sobi Bar is a testament to Tao Zrafi’s creativity. His exclusive menu combines stunning visual presentation with complex, delightful flavours, elevating the drink experience into an art form.
The Mixology Garden caters to diverse tastes. In addition to Tao Zrafi’s signature creations, Sobi Bar offers a curated selection of international gins and artisanal beers, ensuring every guest finds the perfect beverage to suit their preferences.
To commemorate the launch of the Mixology Garden, Oaga Art Resort is hosting several special events:
- Cocktail Masterclasses (November 29 and December 6): Guests can learn from Tao Zrafi himself, discovering the secrets behind his innovative cocktails.
- The Grand Unveiling (December 5): This evening celebration features Tao’s signature cocktails, a buffet, live music, interactive mural painting, and spectacular fire shows. Guests can enjoy a sunset soiree combining art, music, and unforgettable flavours.
Sneak peeks of Tao Zrafi’s creations are available on Oaga Art Resort’s social media platforms, offering a teaser of the enchanting cocktails awaiting guests at Sobi Bar.
Whether seeking relaxation, artistic inspiration, or an elevated cocktail experience, the Mixology Garden at Sobi Bar promises something extraordinary. With its blend of stunning flavors, unique atmosphere, and unforgettable events, Oaga Art Resort ensures every visitor leaves with cherished memories of paradise.
Featured
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa announces exclusive collaboration with Maldivian
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa, a luxury destination located in the pristine Haa Alifu Atoll of the Maldives, has announced its exclusive partnership with Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, for all seaplane and domestic flight transfers. Starting from November 1st, 2024, this collaboration aims to provide guests with unparalleled convenience and seamless travel to the resort, ensuring daily service, with additional transfers available depending on the season.
The resort is known for its spacious villas, exceptional privacy, a wide array of experiences, world-class amenities, and personalised service, all set in a lush, natural island paradise. With Maldivian as its exclusive seaplane transfer partner, guests can enjoy a direct, swift, and scenic journey from Velana International Airport to the resort’s doorstep.
Ahmed Hafeez, Managing Director of Lily Hotels, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with Maldivian to elevate our guests’ arrival and departure experience. This collaboration ensures a smooth and luxurious transition, allowing guests to begin their unforgettable holiday the moment they step off the plane.”
Upon arrival at Velana International Airport, guests are welcomed by the resort’s dedicated airport representatives, who escort them to the exclusive Lily Hotels Lounge at the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal. Here, they can relax and enjoy panoramic views, complimentary refreshments, and Wi-Fi while awaiting their transfer.
In addition to seaplane transfers, Maldivian will also manage domestic flight transfers for guests who prefer this alternative. This comprehensive approach highlights Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa’s commitment to providing flexible and convenient travel solutions.
The partnership with Maldivian also positions the resort for future growth, particularly with the upcoming upgrade of Hanimaadhoo International Airport. This development is expected to enhance accessibility and offer more travel options for the resort’s clientele. The collaboration is anticipated to generate increased interest in the less-explored northern Maldives, an area known for its untouched natural beauty and more tranquil, underwater experiences.
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