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Soneva Marks 25 Years of Rare Guest Experiences and a Peerless Sustainable Ethos

Soneva 25 years anniversary
This month, the world-leading, sustainable luxury resort operator, Soneva will be celebrating its 25 years anniversary.

This month, the world-leading luxury resort operator Soneva will be celebrating its 25 years anniversary. Founded in 1995, today the brand is synonymous with ‘intelligent luxury’. Soneva stands renowned for crafting rare and authentic experiences for guests while pioneering sustainability across every level of its operations.

From October 2020 through to 2021, Soneva’s resorts will be hosting a calendar of events and celebrations. The events will recognize many of the ground-breaking achievements and industry firsts the brand has made during its 25-year journey. Soneva is the brainchild of the husband and wife team, Sonu Shivdasani and Eva Malmström Shivdasani. After falling in love with the Maldives while on holiday, the couple discovered Kunfunadhoo, an unspoiled and uninhabited island in the enchantingly beautiful Baa Atoll, opening Soneva Fushi in 1995, the Maldives’ first-ever luxury hideaway.

Over the last 25 years, we have created a new benchmark for luxury and experiential travel. As a business, we understand the importance of crafting enriching, exceptional experiences for our guests and will continue to evolve with their needs in order to surpass their expectations while remaining true to our sustainable ethos and intelligent luxury.

Soneva Founder and CEO, Sonu Shivdasani said.

With its unique ‘no news, no shoes’ philosophy, the resort set a new standard in barefoot luxury. The standards not only transformed the Maldivian tourism industry but also continues to inform Soneva’s role as a leader, trend-setter, and innovator in the world of hospitality. Meanwhile, over the last quarter of a century, the Soneva portfolio has expanded to become a collection of luxurious resorts. Likewise, with each unique destination boasting breath-taking locations, tastefully appointed villas, one-of-a-kind experiences, and a personalized, intuitive service, tailored to guests’ every need.

Soneva Fushi was followed by the launch of Soneva Kiri on Thailand’s fourth-largest island, Koh Kood, in 2009. Soneva in Aqua, a 23-metre ultra-luxury yacht concept, set sail in the Maldives for the first time in 2015. The yacht combines Soneva’s inimitable resort experience with the freedom of a private charter. Most recently, Soneva Jani, located in the Maldives’ idyllic Noonu Atoll and surrounded by a sparkling private lagoon, opened its doors to guests in 2016.

The three Soneva resorts continue to garner a raft of prestigious international awards. In 2020, Soneva Jani was included in the Gold List of Conde Nast Traveler’s Best Hotels and Resorts in the world. In 2019 Soneva Fushi was included on the same list, while Bilanz’s ‘best hotel in the world’ award went to Soneva Jani, and Soneva Kiri was named the ‘number one resort in Asia/Thailand’ in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. 

To view Soneva’s full 25th-anniversary campaign including a curated collection of videos by Bruno Aveillan, and Soneva’s gallery of old photos since 1995, please visit: www.soneva.com/25-years-of-soneva

Feature image by Soneva
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Experience the Magic of Maldives 2024 Festive Celebrations

Experience the Magic of Maldives' 2024 Festive Celebrations

The Maldives transforms into a vibrant paradise during the festive season, filled with joy and unforgettable moments. Luxury resorts in the Maldives offer unique experiences for those looking to revel in the magic of joyous celebrations. Travelers seeking a memorable holiday will find enchanting events and exquisite dining experiences at these luxury resorts, making it the perfect time for a Christmas Maldives getaway.

Intercontinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort

The celebrations begin with the lighting of the Christmas tree, setting a festive mood for guests. Enjoy a cocktail reception on Christmas Eve featuring a sumptuous dinner inspired by global traditions. Santa Claus makes a grand entrance, delighting children and adults with gifts and holiday cheer. For culinary enthusiasts, Michelin Chef Thanos Feskos will lead a remarkable journey through a 12-stage menu. At the same time, artist Nina Brooke offers interactive workshops. In addition to that, Holistic practitioner Yoko Kawaguchi provides Zen meditation sessions, ensuring a tranquil holiday experience by adding a mindful touch to the festivities.

Moreover, as New Year approaches, the resort hosts an Elements-themed extravaganza inspired by Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. Guests can expect mesmerizing ballet performances, fire shows, and live music. DJ Jesse Santos and the band JAZUBEA-T keep the energy alive as the night culminates in spectacular fireworks.

JOALI Maldives

The festivities begin with a sparkling Christmas tree lighting ceremony, complemented by festive canapés and crafted cocktails. Families gather for a lavish Christmas Eve feast, prepared by talented chefs showcasing exceptional holiday flavors. As Santa Claus arrives, young guests are filled with cheer from the gifts and surprises he brings.

On New Year’s Eve, guests enjoy a dazzling dinner, welcoming the new year in the Maldives with champagne, fireworks, and spectacular culinary creations. Throughout the season, children can partake in exciting activities at the Muramas Kids Club, guided by a marine biologist and a chef. Culinary highlights include themed Chef Nina Tarasova dinners featuring Russian flavors and exquisite seafood pairings. For Orthodox Christmas, indulge in a special feast crafted by expert chefs with authentic flavors.

Jawakara Islands Maldives

This holiday resort buzzes with excitement for its inaugural festive celebrations, kicking off on 20th December. The festivities begin with an enchanting lighting ceremony, transforming the island into a magical wonderland. Guests can indulge in a sumptuous Christmas Eve Gala Dinner, a lively evening filled with live music, a DJ, and a dazzling fire show.

Christmas Day brings joy as Santa Claus makes a special appearance for the little ones. Families can participate in a fun kayak race in the lagoon or enjoy the Elf Sunset Cruise. The resort will host a boutique sale for those seeking gifts, offering a perfect opportunity to surprise loved ones.

As 2024 approaches, guests will bid farewell with a glamorous New Year Gala Dinner, culminating in an unforgettable countdown featuring live music, a DJ, and a spectacular fire show. Jawakara promises a festive celebration Maldives filled with joy and memorable moments for all.

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa

From 20th December, 2024, to 7th January 2025, the resort presents an enchanting program with captivating performances and delightful dining experiences. The Winter Wonderland tree-illumination event on a secret beach sets the tone for a magical holiday.

On Christmas Eve, the Sing-Along spectacular takes place in an enchanted forest, where guests can dance under the Maldivian moon. Furthermore, a Santarina’s Wishing Counter and a Santa Parade for children enhance the joy for families. Guests can look forward to a Showman’s Brunch on New Year’s Day, following the dazzling New Year Kuda Cabaret featuring a star-studded cast of performers.

One&Only Reethi Rah

Meanwhile in this luxurious resort, the festive celebrations begins on 20th December 2024. Families can enjoy cocktails and classic carols while decorating the Christmas tree at a traditional tree-lighting ceremony. On Christmas Eve, a Starry Night-themed cocktail and dinner awaits, featuring a feast of seasonal favorites, fresh seafood, and delectable sweets.

Christmas Day offers a lavish brunch by the pool, perfect for gathering with loved ones. As the New Year approaches, the resort hosts the “Light Up the Night” party, featuring live music and refreshing cocktails. Golden Glow pre-New Year celebration invites guests to indulge in culinary delights and entertainment.

The New Year’s Eve gala is the highlight, showcasing an exquisite dinner themed “Reflections,” with dazzling entertainment. Guests will raise their glasses to 2025 at midnight, marking the new year in style. With various engaging activities, from festive chocolate-making classes for kids to adult sports events, the resort ensures a magical holiday experience for all.

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