The Soneva brand epitomises the fusion of luxury and environmental stewardship
BY AKANKSHA DEAN
Amidst the whispers of waves and the rustle of palms, I found myself enveloped in the luxurious embrace of Soneva – a sanctuary where comfort embraces environmental responsibility. My journey here opened my eyes to what it truly means to indulge with a conscience.
Nestled in the Maldives and Thailand, Soneva is not just a resort; it’s a revelation. This innovative brand masterfully intertwines the essence of luxury with sustainable living.
With each twinkle of the stars above and the gentle touch of sand beneath my feet at both Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani in The Maldives, I realised that here, sustainability and indulgence coexist seamlessly.
A VISION FOR THE PLANET
Soneva has always championed an ethos that transcends traditional luxury. Its brand philosophy, dubbed ‘Slow Life,’ invites guests to savour every moment while remaining acutely aware of their environmental footprint.
For them, luxury is not simply the absence of discomfort; it’s a harmonious balance between self-indulgence and respect for nature. At Soneva, the very foundations of the resorts reflect this ideology.
Designed to blend with their breath-taking surroundings, these properties are more than aesthetically pleasing; they are manifestations of thoughtful architecture. The use of sustainable materials echoes the surrounding beauty, ensuring that the resorts enhance rather than detract from the environment. This is luxury with a purpose.
INNOVATIVE WASTE MANAGEMENT
With global waste management becoming an urgent issue, I was intrigued to discover Soneva’s approach – what they call a ‘Waste-to-Wealth’ initiative.
Here, around 90 per cent of discarded materials are repurposed, turning potential waste into resources. Innovative programmes like the Soneva Maker Programme are making waves, encouraging local communities to transform trash into treasure.
What’s more, I was captivated to learn that Soneva operates the world’s first fully sustainable surf programme, utilising eco-friendly surfboards and gear. The glass recycling initiative, which transforms used bottles into works of art through collaboration with renowned glassblowers, stood out as a beacon of creativity.
What was once destined for landfills is now a testament to human ingenuity and environmental stewardship.
DINING UNDER THE STARS, SUSTAINABLY
Dining at Soneva is an experience that transcends the plate. As I dined at the enchanting ‘Fresh in the Garden,’ a restaurant nestled in the treetops, the flavours revealed stories of the land.
Each dish is crafted with locally sourced, organic ingredients. For those like me who are keen on plant-based diets, the offerings were abundant and creative, showcasing how sustainability can tantalisingly tempt the taste buds.
As the sun dipped beneath the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, I savoured a meal prepared using native coconut oil – a true depiction of authentic Maldivian flavours. Engaging with local culinary techniques enhanced the experience, proving that sustainability does not mean compromising on luxury; rather, it elevates it.
THE CIRCLE OF LIFE
A standout aspect of the Soneva experience is its commitment to a complete ecological cycle. Leftover food from restaurants is lovingly transformed into compost that nourishes the organic gardens of the resort. This cycle ensures that not only does Soneva sustain its lush environment but it also contributes positively to surrounding ecosystems.
While the luxurious amenities tantalise, it’s the conscious practices that bow to my deeper appreciation of beauty – beauty that thrives harmoniously with the natural world.
I witnessed beekeeping initiatives that enhanced pollination in their gardens, connecting guests with the intricacies of nature. The blend of modern luxury and traditional ecological practices formed an intricate tapestry – a true ‘Intelligent Luxury.’
THE ROAD AHEAD
Despite their remarkable achievements, they echo a commitment to continuous evolution. In the words of Sonu, “We are on a journey of discovery, and there’s always room for improvement.”
As they explore innovative practices such as aquaponics, Soneva remains dedicated to enhancing its sustainable ethos.
As my unforgettable journey concluded, I reflected on what I had learned. Soneva had opened my heart to a new understanding of luxury – not just as a lavish experience, but as a platform for leading by example.
Here, I discovered that true luxury lies in being a steward of the world around us, allowing both indulgence and conscience to coexist. This unique approach to ‘Intelligent Luxury’ fosters a connection between guests and nature, making eco-conscious luxury an integral part of the Soneva experience.
In Soneva’s embrace, I discovered a destination where elegance meets eco-consciousness – where the spirit of barefoot luxury transforms into an invitation to savour both the stars above and the earth beneath our feet.
