In an exciting development for luxury travel enthusiasts, renowned hoteliers Sonu and Eva Shivdasani have announced the launch of their new hospitality brand, Sosei. This innovative endeavor marks a significant chapter for the couple who have long been instrumental in transforming the Maldives’ tourism landscape from a budget-friendly destination to a hallmark of luxury.
Pioneers of Barefoot Luxury
Sonu and Eva Shivdasani are well-known figures in the hospitality industry, co-founding celebrated brands such as Six Senses and Soneva. They introduced the concept of barefoot luxury, combining sustainability with high-end experiences. Their philosophy encourages guests to connect with nature, offering a refreshing departure from traditional luxury that overly emphasizes opulence.
Their approach features rustic materials instead of formal decor, open-air showers under natural settings, and experiences like dining on the beach while savoring the stars above. Sustainability is integral to their model—long before it became a trend—by implementing eco-friendly initiatives like organic gardens and eliminating plastic at their resorts.
The Birth of Sosei
Sosei, meaning "rebirth" in Japanese, symbolizes both a new professional venture and a personal renewal for the Shivdasani couple. After stepping back from operational roles at Soneva, they intend to expand their footprint globally. With projects planned in diverse locations—from Japan to the Arctic Circle—Sosei aims to blend their distinct philosophies of eco-consciousness and creativity.
In a recent interview with Travel + Leisure Asia, Sonu expressed that the brand seeks to bring their hallmark experiences to city environments, opening intimate retreats in urban areas that prioritize wellness and sustainability.
Successful Roots in the Maldives
The Maldives has served as a canvas for the Shivdasanis’ vision. They opened Soneva Fushi in 1995, turning an unremarkable property into a luxurious escape that pioneered sustainable opulence. Innovative transport solutions, such as seaplanes and helicopters, drew visitors to previously inaccessible islands, revolutionizing travel logistics in the region.
The couple’s success not only catapulted the Maldives into a luxury tourism powerhouse but also inspired a wave of eco-conscious resorts globally. They continued to innovate with projects like Soneva in Aqua, the Maldives’ first floating villa, and the exclusive Soneva Secret, featuring just 14 private villas.
Transition and New Beginnings
Having sold their stake in Six Senses in 2012, Sonu and Eva recently transitioned away from Soneva as well, setting the stage for Sosei. This strategic move opens new avenues for transformation in luxury hospitality, allowing them to share their philosophy with a broader audience.
Sosei will challenge conventions by integrating sustainability into various urban and remote environments. This venture aims to redefine luxury, ensuring that both wellness and ecological responsibility remain at its core. Sonu envisions signing several new deals by the end of the year to further expand Sosei’s reach.
A Personal Journey of Resilience
The launch of Sosei also aligns with a personal renaissance for Sonu, who recently overcame health challenges. After battling lymphoma, he’s emerged with renewed determination to innovate within the hospitality sphere. His journey symbolizes the essence of Sosei—embracing personal recovery while propelling forward into a broader narrative of luxury travel.
In recognition of his contributions to sustainable tourism, Sonu was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2023, further solidifying his impact on the industry.
A New Era of Luxury Travel
The Shivdasanis are known for their playful approach to luxury, from 24-hour chocolate rooms to unique outdoor cinema experiences. Their properties are not merely places to stay but destinations that inspire wonder. With Sosei, they aim to extend this sense of discovery beyond idyllic islands into metropolitan areas, creating engaging, tranquil escapes within cities.
As they embark on this new journey, Sosei represents a seamless blend of their established legacy and future ambitions. The brand is poised to reshape the landscape of luxury hospitality, providing travel experiences that combine comfort with unexpected elements of joy—all while promoting sustainability and local connections.
For those looking to experience Sosei’s innovative offerings or explore the preceding legacies with Soneva and Six Senses, the anticipation builds as this new chapter unfolds.
Learn more about sustainability in travel with industry experts, and stay updated on luxury travel trends as Sosei navigates its exciting path forward.
