Paradise Found: Why A Visit To One Of Soneva’s Sanctuaries Is A Must This Festive Season
An inspiring getaway to one of Soneva’s sanctuaries will make for the ultimate festive break
When Soneva Fushi took the number seven spot on the inaugral list of The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2023, discerning travellers were not surprised. The fact that sister destination Soneva Jani joined the ranking at number 36 too, was all but expected. Because the whole concept of barefoot Robinson Crusoe-style luxury, bespoke service – and yes, overwater villas – was practically founded by this niche group that boasts two idyllic destinations in the Maldives, and the equally spectacular Soneva Kiri in Thailand, located just 90 minutes from Bangkok. Evangelical guests return time and time again, as once you’ve experienced the sheer indulgence offered at these resorts, you won’t be satisfied elsewhere.
Barefoot Luxury
Nestled in the picturesque Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve area, Soneva Fushi is one of the largest islands in the Maldives. With 53 private island villas, eight overwater villas and 14 fine-dining destinations, this resort knows how to pamper its guests. Meanwhile, Soneva Jani is home to sprawling overwater villas – some of the most spacious ones in the Maldives – with signature slides from the second floor to the turquoise water below, providing regular thrills. Check into Soneva Kiri for wellness experiences, Thai healing classes, relaxing yoga and fresh, nourishing food, surrounded by tropical gardens and picturesque beaches. Whether you are looking for an action and activity packed stay, or the ultimate pampering session, all three eco friendly resorts – pioneers of the sustainable travel trend – will fulfil your every holiday whim.
Best of all, The Winter Season programme offers a curated seasonal offering at all three family friendly resorts, with celebrity appearances, once-in-a-lifetime feasts and special immersive experiences.
Top Chefs
Tim Raue will be jetting in from Berlin for a 15-week residency at Soneva Fushi’s Flying Sauces restaurant. The chef, whose eponymous Germany eatery holds two Michelin stars and has a 19.5 Gault&Millau rating, will be showcasing his take on Asian flavours, using Maldivian ingredients, at the resort’s fine dining stalwart which comes complete with a 200-metre zipline. Other visiting gastronauts adding yet more spice to the already impressive menus include Mumbai-based Vicky Ratnani and plant-based culinary king Ricky Saward at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani, Michelin-starred and Gault&Millau ranked Spanish restaurateur Maria José San Román at Soneva Kiri, and Timothy Bilton, from Yorkshire’s Cannon Hall Farm, who’ll helm a kitchen at Soneva Kiri.
Soneva Stars
Across the season, a series of visiting international experts in sport, science and wellness will share their knowledge and expertise. Take to the Olympic-sized tennis courts for one-on-one sessions with World No.3 Daniil Medvedev at Soneva Fushi, join sessions with football icon Fernando Torres at Soneva Jani, drift towards sailing lessons aboard the 23-metre Soneva in Aqua with renowned British adventurer Sir Robin Knox-Johnston. Other highlights feature planetary scientist Dr Ryuki Hyodo, wellness specialist Hortensia Corredoira, and football freestyler Marcel Gurk who will spearhead workshops and spark discussion.
Festive Adventures
Across the islands, additional seasonal happenings will get guests into the festive spirit. The programme is led by family friendly activities, including a camp night, zip lining, football matches and more. Fine-tune your culinary portfolio at a pasta-making workshop, enjoy a beach bonfire with S’mores or elevate your health via a Chinese medicine consultation.
On New Year’s Eve, The Four Elements experience will take guests on a global culinary journey with a specially devised menu focused on earth, wind, air and fire. It will be accompanied by dazzling shows that will usher in 2024 in the most memorable manner possible. soneva.com
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From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s November 2023 issue.