Why the Maldives is Olive’s new favourite vacay destination
Our Founder, Olive Cooke recently took a trip to the Maldives. Turquoise waters, tropical palms and a stunningly remote setting. Nature at her very best in a location to dream of.
Discover Olive’s most memorable Maldives moments, read which pieces were on high rotation and uncover a little sneak peek of new pieces coming to Cooke & Kin soon...
1. Tell us about your trip to the Maldives. What was it about the Maldives that you loved most?
There is an energy at Soneva that is unmatched. It's a gentle calm - as soon as you step off the boat with the sand between your toes it's like the world has melted away and you're on that tropical beach they tell you to imagine in meditation. I find myself constantly pulled to warm destinations so this tiny gem of powder white sand, vivid blue ocean and palms swaying overhead was pure bliss.
2. You stayed at Soneva, who is setting a new standard for sustainability in the hotel industry. What stood out to you most from their environmental and sustainability efforts throughout your stay?
It is so inspiring to see luxury travel with such consideration. I was introduced to Soneva via Slojourn, a global agency that focuses on slow & sustainable travel, this is where I fell in love with Soneva & their continued commitment to recycling & repurposing. Especially as their properties are entirely surrounded by the ocean, which we need to protect for those that call it home.
I love Sonevas continued commitment to recycling and repurposing, especially as their properties are entirely surrounded by the ocean – which we need to protect for those that call it home.
Our impact as humans on ecosystems is endless, so to see what is in place to recycle plastics, glass and other materials that come onto the island is wonderful. Soneva is constantly searching for new ways to use materials, grow food and power their properties and I look forward to seeing them achieve the goals they have set in extending their practices over time.
3. Which Cooke & Kin pieces were high on your vacation wardrobe rotation?
I basically lived in a bikini, sarong and hat while I was away. When we did get dressed, I loved wearing my Tulum Knit Maxi to dinner – it’s so comfortable and the colour is so vibrant. I have to say, I also wore a lot of the next collection that is coming very soon… the most comfortable easy wearing pieces that I can not wait to share!
4. Did you find inspiration for upcoming collections on this trip? If so, can you give us a sneak peek?
I always find inspiration when I am somewhere new and in nature. The colours of the ocean, coral, shells and sky all serve as a starting point for thoughts and ideas.
I did shoot a few pieces of a coming collection with one of my favorite prints to date, inspired by a specific shell that almost looks like mountains. I’ve already said too much! Haha, I can't wait for you to see it!
5. Can you share with us the most memorable moment from your trip?
I loved all the moments of natural beauty. Seeing dolphins play, stingrays out the front of our room and the most beautiful big rainbow after the rain. All of these moments are the most memorable.
6. What are three things you can’t travel without?
It's so hard to only choose three but I will say all my things to protect me from the sun (sunscreen, hat and oversized throw-on shirt), a sarong and of course a bikini!