Elite Traveler May-June 2017

INSPIRE TOP NEWHOTELS

Soneva Jani, The Maldives OPENED OCTOBER 2016

Following the acclaimed private island resort Soneva Fushi, great anticipation surrounded the opening of the group’s latest retreat. While the former can be found in the Baa Atoll, Soneva Jani lies a little further north within a secluded lagoon of the Noonu Atoll, dotted across five lush islands fringed with the beautiful white-sand shores the Maldives is celebrated for. Comprising a collection of sprawling water villas and island sanctuaries, the resort is the epitome of laidback chic, with each contemporary thatched villa opening out onto its own private stretch of the lagoon, encompassing a private pool, outdoor deck and light-filled interior with a retractable roof for stargazing. With such a privileged setting, it’s natural Soneva Jani would pay close attention to the environment, which is perhaps most evident in the magical experience guests have when diving with the resort’s instructors. However time is spent, from being spoiled in the spa to savoring seafood, relaxing with your toes in the sand or wandering through the resort’s flourishing gardens, Soneva Jani is ultimately a place to disconnect from the demands of modern life. Four-bedroom water villa or four-bedroom island villa from $15,150 per night. Contact Mimi Jacob, reservations manager, mimi.jacob@soneva.com, +960 6566 666, soneva.com

Photos Paul Thuysbaert; Marco Fugazzola, Stevie Mann