Sustainability and luxury vacations - how do they go together?
At The Family Project, we firmly believe that true luxury is not based on exploitation and we support hotels that remain true to this principle. For us, luxury is not only about the quality of the experience, but also about the responsibility we have towards the environment, people and society. Soneva is a prime example of how sustainable luxury can be harmoniously combined with exclusive travel experiences. With its consistent philosophy of respecting nature while providing first-class service, the Soneva Foundation is a true jewel of sustainable tourism.
The Soneva Foundation
The Soneva Foundation was established to bring about positive change in the areas of environmental protection, education and socio-economic development. Through its many initiatives, it not only helps to promote sustainability, but also supports the local communities in which Soneva Resorts operate. Here are some of the foundation's key projects:
Environmental protection: mangrove reforestation and initiatives to protect coastal ecosystems, water management and well construction, regenerative agriculture to empower the environment and farmers, waste management and a strict no-plastic policy at all resorts
Education and health: school construction projects to renovate and equip all schools, school lunch project: healthy meals for all children, health initiative in the village: eye care programs, vaccinations and health checks in the communities
Social responsibility: construction of social housing for the local population, support for women and girls through educational programs and vocational training
The Soneva Foundation is consistently committed to promoting a sustainable future and utilizing the resources of Soneva Resorts to make a profound and long-term positive impact in local communities. For us at The Family Project, the Foundation's work is an outstanding example of a company that combines luxury with social and environmental responsibility.
Sonu and Eva – A Heart for the Environment
The story of Soneva begins with the visionary power couple Eva and Sonu Shivdasani. The two founders wanted to create more than just an exclusive hotel—they wanted to create a paradise that is in harmony with nature and people. Their goal was to design a luxury vacation experience that both respects local culture and minimizes its ecological footprint. Sonu and Eva are not only the driving forces behind the Soneva resorts, but also passionate advocates of sustainability and social responsibility. Their vision of “Barefoot Luxury” shapes the entire Soneva experience, where guests can take off their shoes and immerse themselves in a world of tranquility and luxury—without losing sight of the environment.
Voices for the World: The Slow Life Symposium
The Slow Life Symposium, organized by Soneva, is an annual event that brings together leading thinkers, innovators, and environmental activists to develop sustainable solutions for global tourism and beyond. The focus here is not merely on minimizing the ecological footprint, but on actively making positive contributions to nature and local communities.The symposium focuses on topics such as regenerative tourism, which goes beyond merely preventing harm and helps actively regenerate the environment. New concepts regarding carbon-neutral hotels, the circular economy, and resource conservation are discussed. Soneva implements the symposium’s findings at its resorts, ensuring that sustainable practices strengthen both nature and local communities.
In recent years, the symposium has brought together numerous prominent scientists, philanthropists, and public figures—such as Richard Branson and Swedish Crown Princess Victoria.
Why we love it...
Soneva Resorts represent what we embody at The Family Project - luxury that takes responsibility. The combination of exquisite service, breathtaking nature and a deep commitment to sustainability makes Soneva a unique choice for discerning travelers who value their surroundings and people. We love Soneva Resorts because they manage to combine luxury with a respectful approach to the environment, offering a sustainable yet luxurious vacation option.
For us at The Family Project, Soneva is the perfect example of how luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand. A stay at a Soneva resort is not only an unforgettable journey into breathtaking nature, but also a contribution to a more sustainable future.
