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Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Angsana Ihuru to offer twin island festive experiences
Underwater adventures, festive performances and Christmas activities set against a stunning backdrop of the Indian Ocean await guests of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Angsana Ihuru this year.
Island festivities
The festive celebration will begin with the decorating and lighting of Christmas trees on December 22. Christmas Eve will be traditional with a small twist as Santa will arrive by boat instead of sleigh on the 24th, followed by lively Christmas carols whilst guests enjoy cocktails and canapés.
On the morning of 25th, Santa and his divers will visit the Rannamaari Wreck to check out the resident guitar fish and other marine creatures.
Fun activities will commence at Banyan Tree beach such as festive games, Zumba session and beach volleyball every day before the sunset. Live arts with local market experience and t-shirt painting are available for the crafty and the much anticipated activity ‘Swim Across the Channel,’ an 890-metre swim between the two islands will also take place.
Guests are encouraged to come as they are for the New Year’s Eve, even barefoot if they prefer but they can dress up and get that perfect Instagram-worthy Christmas shot on the specially designed festive photo booth.
New Year’s Eve at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru will be for those who seek laid back celebration under the stars. The resident acoustic band will serenade guests throughout the evening until the countdown.
For guests who prefer to dance their night away and welcome the New Year under twirling disco lights, they can head over to Angsana Ihuru and show their moves on the dance floor during the DJ performance.
‘Tis the season for the kiddies
A series of fun activities awaits for the kids!
The little ones can try kids-yoga on the beach, coral planting, or bracelet making from recycled fishing nets. For something a little more festive, kids can decorate their own gingerbread man or create Christmas cards using recycled paper.
Activity highlights
Those who seek tranquility can retreat to Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and be rejuvenated by the time-honoured treatments at Banyan Tree Spa. Guests can reconnect to nature by meditations and yoga classes led by the resorts’ inhouse Yoga instructor.
A romantic cruise on the Indian Ocean during the Christmas or New Year’s Eve is also a one-of-a-kind festive experience.
A team of experienced dive instructors will offer the most wonderful underwater adventures to divers and non-divers alike. Divers can meet the resident guitarfish, batfish and moray eels of the legendary Rannamaari Wreck whilst beginners can explore Angsana Ihuru’s vibrant house reef. For non-swimmers, swimming lessons or guided snorkelling can be arranged.
Guests can visit the Marine Lab to participate in conservation activities such as coral planting, citizen science snorkelling and Marine Talk.
For something a little extra, in case the northeast wind blows a little bit stronger, guests can expect a kiteboarding show from the resorts’ kite surfers including one of Maldives’ finest, Ahmed ‘Hambe’ Hamdhan.
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru opened its door in 1995 and is the first international chain resort in the Maldives. With just 48 pool villas dotting around the island, privacy and relaxation can easily be attained. The resort has a restaurant, bar, PADI Gold Palm five-star resort dive centre and a Banyan Tree Spa. It is also home to the Banyan Tree Maldives Marine Lab, the first of its kind to be funded and built on a private resort, where guests can learn about marine conservation and partake in the many sustainability activities on offer including coral planting, reef cleaning and daily stingray feeding sessions.
Angsana Ihuru is surrounded by one of the most vibrant and well preserved coral house reefs in the Maldives. The resort has 45 villas, a restaurant and a bar, a PADI Gold Palm five-star resort dive centre and an Angsana Spa.
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Angsana Ihuru are located in North Male Atoll, just 25 minutes away by speedboat from the airport. The two resorts are just five minutes by boat away from each other.
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Ifuru Island Resort launches exclusive Fanatics Program for ultimate guest rewards
Ifuru Island Resort has announced the launch of the Ifuru Fanatics Program, a new membership initiative designed to reward its valued guests. This program aims to enhance every aspect of the guest experience, combining luxury, exclusivity, and unforgettable moments into a seamless offering. Whether catering to seasoned travellers or first-time visitors to the island paradise, the Ifuru Fanatics Program is designed to make each stay extraordinary.
Program members will enjoy a range of benefits designed to elevate their visit from the moment of arrival. Guests are welcomed with a complimentary bottle of Prosecco and a personalised welcome card from the General Manager, setting the tone for a memorable stay. Members are also eligible for one-level suite or villa upgrades, subject to availability, and can take advantage of early check-in and late check-out privileges, allowing them to make the most of their time on the island.
The program also provides significant savings, with members receiving discounts of up to 50% on future bookings, spa treatments, and dining experiences. Guests can indulge in jet-lag massages, explore the lagoon with dive sessions, or enjoy floating canapé and cocktail experiences. Premium membership tiers offer even more exclusive perks, such as private romantic dinners, Island Wedding Ceremony packages, and generous resort credits for activities and services.
The Ifuru Fanatics Program features four membership tiers: Basic, Turquoise, Blue, and Pink. Each tier offers progressively luxurious benefits. Turquoise members enjoy curated privileges, while Blue members gain access to enhanced experiences, such as private cocktail sessions and Japanese Teppanyaki dinners. Pink members, the highest tier, receive complimentary two-night stays in luxurious suites, private beach dinners, and credits of up to $500 for the Dive Center. Each tier is tailored to different preferences, ensuring a personalised and memorable experience for every guest.
Membership in the Ifuru Fanatics Program is exclusively available to guests who book directly through the Ifuru Island Maldives website, the official Ifuru app, or by contacting the resort’s reservations team. These exclusive benefits are not offered for bookings made through third-party platforms, ensuring members receive the most direct and personalised service.
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Bipasha Basu’s intimate birthday celebration at Fushifaru Maldives
Fushifaru Maldives had the privilege of hosting Bollywood power couple Karan Singh Grover and Bipasha Basu for a memorable birthday celebration. Accompanied by their daughter, the family enjoyed the tranquil beauty and genuine hospitality of the resort during their stay on the picturesque island.
A highlight of their visit included a coconut tree planting activity on the island. Bipasha described the experience as “planting joy and hope for us all” in an Instagram post, reflecting the family’s admiration for Fushifaru’s dedication to sustainability and its pristine natural environment.
Bipasha’s birthday was celebrated with an elegant dinner under the starlit sky, featuring a gourmet menu that included succulent lobster. The candlelit setting, paired with breathtaking ocean views, created an enchanting and intimate atmosphere for the occasion.
Bipasha described her experience at Fushifaru as “very lovely,” praising the resort’s exceptional hospitality, culinary offerings, and attention to detail. She expressed gratitude for the “beautiful trip,” further reinforcing Fushifaru Maldives’ reputation as a premier destination for families, couples, and celebrities seeking exclusive and luxurious escapes in the Maldives.
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Emerald Maldives hosts tennis masterclasses with Filippo Volandr
Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa, a distinguished 5-star deluxe property and member of The Leading Hotels of the World, has announced a collaboration with Filippo Volandri, the esteemed coach of the Italian National Tennis Team.
From February 21 to 28, 2025, Volandri will conduct six exclusive tennis masterclasses, designed to cater to both children and adults seeking to improve their skills on the court.
As the coach behind Italy’s 2024 Davis Cup victory and a key figure in the Italian national tennis team, Volandri brings extensive expertise and a passion for the sport. Known for his strategic approach and ability to inspire players of all levels, he offers a coaching experience that is both insightful and engaging.
Participants will have the unique opportunity to enhance their tennis abilities under Volandri’s tailored guidance. Whether seasoned players or newcomers to the sport, attendees will benefit from expert insights into technique, strategy, and gameplay. These sessions will take place at the resort’s world-class tennis facilities, set against the serene backdrop of the Maldives, creating an unforgettable environment for skill development.
Rohit Chhettri, General Manager of Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “The collaboration with Filippo Volandri provides our guests with an extraordinary opportunity to learn from one of tennis’s finest coaches while enjoying the unmatched luxury and natural beauty of our resort.”
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