Latest news with #BanyanTreeVabbinfaru
Cision Canada
2 days ago
- Cision Canada
Banyan Tree Invites the World to Take a "Sacred Pause" with the Launch of #ThisRightNow On Global Wellness Day 2025
A global invitation to reconnect with nature, self, and community through rituals inspired by land, season, and ancestral memory SINGAPORE, June 14, 2025 /CNW/ -- In celebration of Global Wellness Day, Banyan Tree, the flagship brand of Banyan Group ("Banyan Tree Holdings Limited" or the "Group" - SGX: B58) unveils #ThisRightNow, a global call to pause, breathe and reconnect with what truly matters. The initiative invites guests across the world to step into presence through gentle rituals inspired by the wisdom of nature, local traditions and ancestral rhythms. From desert valleys to coral reefs, sacred temples to snow-capped mountains, #ThisRightNow is brought to life through curated experiences across Banyan Tree's sanctuaries around the world. Each moment is grounded in nature: Banyan Tree AlUla: Stargazing in the Ashar Valley evokes ancient constellations and desert stillness. Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape: Temple blessings and astrological rituals reconnect guests with ancestral time. Banyan Tree Lijiang: The silent majesty of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain offers presence beyond words. Banyan Tree Ringha: Himalayan valleys cradle guests in deep calm and spiritual reflection. Banyan Tree Mayakoba: Sacred ruins whisper the wisdom of Maya civilisation. Banyan Tree Dubai: The hydrothermal Rainforest Trail offers a sensorial inward return. Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru: Rhythms beneath the sea awaken a deeper state of being. Banyan Tree Phuket: Still lagoons and mangrove forests invite gentle introspection. Banyan Tree Krabi: Coral-fringed shores and limestone cliffs create a space of coastal quiet. As a pioneer in holistic wellbeing, Banyan Tree offers an evolving eco-system of spa and wellbeing experiences designed for modern travellers. This includes thematic retreats, multi-day programmes, and a curated selection of wellbeing products guided by Banyan Group's 8 Pillars of Wellbeing. Key offerings include: Banyan Tree Connections: a private wellbeing immersion for two integrating movement, mindfulness and shared rituals to nurture both inner balance and relational harmony. Offered as a supplement to any room reservation, the programme is currently available at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Banyan Tree Phuket, and will be launched at Banyan Tree Mayakoba and Banyan Tree Anji by the third quarter of this year. Banyan Tree Wellbeing Sanctuary: Signature room categories complete with sleep rituals, nourishing cuisine, and destination-inspired daily practices. Visiting Practitioners Programme: Intimate and restorative sessions led by global experts in nature-based healing. Featured in the second half of this year are Wim Hof Method instructor Laura Hof (Banyan Tree Dubai and Banyan Tree Phuket), sound healing and meditation practitioner Harriet Emily (Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru), and restorative yoga instructor Gabrielle Mendoza (Banyan Tree Phuket), with additional practitioners to be announced. Beyond the resort, Banyan Tree extends the invitation to everyday life. Through breathwork, sensory micro-rituals, and moments of still reflection, the brand encourages people everywhere to practice presence—wherever they are. Guests are invited to share their personal pauses using #ThisRightNow, contributing to a growing collective of mindful experiences. Explore nature-inspired stories, rituals, and reflections from Banyan Tree sanctuaries at ABOUT BANYAN TREE Banyan Tree ( offers a sanctuary to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul in awe inspiring locations around the globe. Rediscover the romance of travel as you journey to iconic destinations where authentic, memorable experiences await. Banyan Tree provides genuine, authentic service and a distinctive, premium retreat experience. ABOUT BANYAN GROUP Banyan Group ("Banyan Tree Holdings Limited" or the "Group" - SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans over 90 hotels and resorts, more than 140 spas and galleries, and 20 plus branded residences in over 20 countries. Comprising 12 global brands, including the flagship brand Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme with Banyan. The founding ethos of "Embracing the Environment, Empowering People" is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience.
The National
10-04-2025
- Business
- The National
Three decades of preserving Maldivian paradise at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru
In 1993, Ho Kwon Ping was on a trip to the Maldives. The former journalist was on a mission, having turned his hand to hospitality and transformed a disused bay in Thailand into the first Banyan Tree resort, he wanted the hotel brand's second property to be in the Indian Ocean archipelago. At a small island, 30 minutes from Male, PK (as he's known to his friends) toured a forest-topped islet in the North Male Atoll. Home to a small guest house, there was not much else on the island, not least electricity or running water. 'Still, he knew that this was the one,' Mohamed Naeem, deputy general manager at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru tells me as we sit on the terrace of Madi Hiyaa, the resort's manta-shaped overwater restaurant, enjoying uninterrupted ocean views. Naeem has been part of the resort since its inception. Born and brought up in the Maldives, the former teacher-turned-hotelier relocated to the tiny island before it officially became Banyan Tree. As one of the first international resorts to open in the Maldives, the Singaporean hotel brand brought a lot of changes to the industry across the Indian Ocean island nation. 'I remember once in the early days, I went to a meeting with the leadership team. I was the only Maldivian in the room. Not only that, but I was the only Asian in the room. I couldn't quite believe the proposals these men were making,' recalls Naeem. 'Workers were to get one month off after every three months of working and a flight home every few months, and more. I wrote it all down, but in my head, I was thinking this will never happen.' But happen it did as Banyan Tree brought international hotelier standards to what was then a tourism industry very much in its infancy. Three decades on and more than a million visitors now flock annually to the Maldives. While this rapid tourism development has brought economic benefits to the archipelago, it has not come without cost. Coastal areas and marine ecosystems face degradation, often due to waste from densely populated resort islands. At Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, a commitment to preserving the natural environment is evident. As the first resort in the Maldives to establish an on-site marine laboratory, conservation and education have been core components of the story for many years. 'We're doing all sorts of conservation with the guests. It is included in the stay price as it's not something that Banyan Tree wants guests to have to pay extra for,' head marine biologist Nick tells me while I glue a piece of coral onto a concrete marine cookie. The activity is the newest conservation focused project to launch at the resort, aiming to let guests be part of the efforts to help resort the island's surrounding corals. Travellers are welcome to visit the newly launched purpose-built marine lab where a colourful classroom setup is adorned with accurate fish representations of the sea life found in the nearby ocean. Glowing fish tanks filled with planted corals line one side of the lab, which has an overhead gallery where visitors can partake in educational discussions and conservation lessons. A new coral spawning programme is under development, a pioneering method that could repopulate the hotel's house reef in just a few years, much faster than using conventional conservation methods, explains Nick. Of course, more traditional conservation methods remain, and I get the chance to see some in action the next day while scuba diving. About 15 metres below the surface of the Indian Ocean, surrounded by colourful parrot fish-tailed trigger fish, my dive buddy and I pass a metal cage-like structure covered in corals. These synthetic electric reefs emit low-level electric currents, which trigger a process that deposits calcium carbonate onto the structure, essentially providing a growth boost for the corals. "When planted on these reefs, corals are not only safer from predators," explains Henry, the resort's assistant marine biologist, "but they also grow significantly faster." Conservation efforts extend beyond the water at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru. Guest rooms utilise refillable toiletry bottles and glass water bottles, eliminating single-use plastics. As one of the region's pioneering holiday islands, Banyan Tree also balances its long-standing hospitality with updates. Villa renovations include modern amenities like USB charging ports, new artwork and upgraded balcony furniture. The resort maintains a rustic and natural atmosphere, intentionally avoiding overwater villas and constructing buildings around existing topiary. "The owners made a choice to prioritise unobstructed ocean views and to preserve the natural environment wherever possible,' explains Naeem. This choice puts the natural beauty of the island first, although it does result in some unique villa layouts including irregular-shaped bathrooms and swimming pools located in the rear of the villas, far away from the million-dollar ocean views. Walking around the sand-covered island takes all of six minutes – I time it as I go. While that is a drop in the ocean compared to many newer resorts in this popular holiday destination, these 48,000 square metres represent three decades of hospitality and a foundational approach to preserving nature alongside the Maldives modern tourism development.
Yahoo
02-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Banyan Tree Charts New Path for Wellbeing Travel with Global Launch of Banyan Tree Connections Programme
Available at Selected Resorts Worldwide from May 2025, the Private, Immersive Holistic Wellbeing Journey for Two Responds to Growing Need for Meaningful Connections in an Increasingly Fragmented World SINGAPORE, April 2, 2025 /CNW/ -- Banyan Tree, the flagship brand of Banyan Group ("Banyan Tree Holdings Limited" or the "Group" - SGX: B58) launches Banyan Tree Connections, a private wellbeing immersion for two with movement, mindfulness, and shared rituals that nurture both relationships and inner wellbeing. Available as a supplement to room reservations, the programme will launch in four selected locations—Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru (Maldives), Banyan Tree Phuket (Thailand), Banyan Tree Mayakoba (Mexico), and Banyan Tree Anji (China)—starting May 2025. For over 30 years, Banyan Tree has pioneered holistic wellbeing, continuously evolving to meet the needs of modern travellers. Marking the first phase of Banyan Tree Spa & Wellbeing's enhanced offerings, Banyan Tree Connections reflects a growing need for meaningful relationships through shared experiences. "In a world where time together is increasingly fragmented, genuine connection is becoming rare. Banyan Tree Connections was created in response to this universal longing—offering experiences that nurture relationships, inner wellbeing and shared renewal in some of the world's most awe-inspiring settings," says Paul Hawco, Executive Director, Integrated Wellbeing, Banyan Group. "Banyan Tree has always been a Sanctuary for the Senses, where each moment is infused with intimacy and a deep connection to the local culture. This programme reflects our belief that wellbeing is not just individual, but flourishes in togetherness." An Immersive Wellbeing Journey Across Continents Each destination offers distinctive experiences that reflect its natural and cultural essence, making every journey unique. Guests will embark on a holistic wellbeing private immersion programme for two, beginning with a personalised wellbeing consultation, followed by a series of experiences guided by Banyan Group's 8 Pillars of Wellbeing to cultivate shared moments of togetherness between partners, friends and family members: Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Maldives (Available from May 2025): A barefoot sanctuary where authenticity meets eco-luxury, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru invites guests to experience the original Maldives through 2- and 3-night programmes. Reconnect with nature and self through Yoga Duo, Conscious Grounding, Breathwork & Sound Meditation, and Lagoon Floating Therapy. Restore balance with a Holistic Wellbeing Treatment and a Herbal Oil & Reflexology Workshop. Local traditions come to life in a Maldivian Cooking Class, followed by a Private Sunset Cruise. The experience concludes with a Bonding Destination Dining experience, offering a serene moment of togetherness in an unforgettable setting. Banyan Tree Phuket, Thailand (Available from June 2025): Nestled among serene lagoons and lush tropical gardens, Banyan Tree Phuket offers a 2-night programme blending movement, mindfulness, and traditional healing practices. Guests can find deep relaxation through Sound Healing Meditation, enhance flexibility with a Private Yoga Duo session, and experience the restorative benefits of a Herbal Oil & Reflexology Workshop. A Time Together Spa Treatment fosters connection and renewal, while a Private Lagoon Kayak Sightseeing experience provides a tranquil exploration of the island's natural beauty. The journey is complemented by a sharing-style Japanese dinner at Hojo, offering an exquisite culinary experience in a serene setting. Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Mexico (Available from July 2025): Where nature and heritage intertwine, Banyan Tree Mayakoba offers Mayan-inspired wellbeing experiences through 2- and 3-night programmes. Guests can flow through Private Yoga Duo, Mangrove Movement, and Drum Breathwork Meditation, embracing the rhythms of the natural world. Renewal unfolds through a Temazcal purification ritual, Herbal Oil & Reflexology Workshop, and Time Together Spa Treatment. A private mangrove kayaking journey invites quiet reflection, while a Recycled Paper Workshop encourages creativity and sustainability. The programme concludes with a sharing-style La Copa Mexican dinner, bringing guests together over vibrant local flavours. Banyan Tree Anji, China (Available from August 2025): Set amid misty bamboo forests and rolling tea plantations, Banyan Tree Anji offers a 2-night programme that harmonises movement, mindfulness, and nature. Guests can ease tension with a Private Duo Stretch session, find inner calm in a Sound Healing Meditation, and unwind with a 90-minute Time Together Spa Treatment. A private guided hike through Lingfeng Mountain invites deep connection with the landscape, while a White Tea Aroma Bath Bomb workshop draws from Anji's tea traditions. The experience also features a sharing-style Saffron Thai dinner, offering an opportunity to savour authentic flavours in a warm, communal setting. The Banyan Tree Connections programme is now available as a supplementary booking to room reservations at all four resorts. For more information, visit For high-resolution images, please download here ABOUT BANYAN TREE Banyan Tree ( offers a sanctuary to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul in awe-inspiring locations around the globe. Rediscover the romance of travel as you journey to iconic destinations where authentic, memorable experiences await. Banyan Tree provides genuine, authentic service and a distinctive, premium retreat experience. ABOUT BANYAN GROUP Banyan Group ("Banyan Tree Holdings Limited" or the "Group" - SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans 91 hotels and resorts, around 140 spas and galleries, and 20 plus branded residences in over 20 countries. Comprising 12 global brands, including the flagship brand Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme withBanyan. The founding ethos of "Embracing the Environment, Empowering People" is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience. 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