Featured
Banyan Tree launches global health programme for post-coronavirus travel

Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts has launched a global integrated health and wellbeing programme, in preparation for the return of travel after the coronavirus pandemic.
Partnering with Bureau Veritas to co-develop a proprietary label and set of protocols, the group is launching the SafeSanctuary programme, an integrated health and wellbeing programme that incorporates protocols of assurance and wellbeing standards.
This will be rolled out progressively from June throughout all properties.
The SafeSanctuary Seal demonstrates the rigour of Protect, Provide and Prevent, to assure all guests and associates of the group’s enhanced health and safety measures at all guest touchpoints as they plan, book and stay with us.
This programme has over 40 areas of enhanced protocols, including screening procedures, hygiene stations, and redesigned processes throughout the guest and associate experience.
Protective assurance
Rigorous cleaning and distancing protocols will be applied through the guest and associate journey, focusing on high-traffic public areas as well as high-touch areas in-room with EPA-approved and recommended cleaning agents.
Appropriate distancing will be encouraged through signage and with ambassadors in public areas such as pools, lobbies, restaurants and other facilities. There will be limited capacity quotas in enclosed areas and for group activities.
Guest amenities, linens and bedding are thoroughly steamed and arrive fully protected in-room, ensuring a pristine and comfortable night of sleep.
Contactless journeys
Going contactless as much as possible, in-room directories and restaurant menus will be replaced with digital options for convenient access on personal devices.
Check-in and check-out processes and experiences such as personal health and fitness classes, cooking sessions or wellbeing consultations, may be conducted in-room to enable a vacation prioritising privacy.
Continuous education, training
All associates are educated continuously on the evolving nature of this health situation, along with guests and surrounding communities.
Education and training are fundamental to ongoing success, and the centralised Banyan Tree Management Academy will increase its subject-specific training standards worldwide.
Hygiene managers on each property and key personnel will apply audit technology that allows implementation of the new protocols.
Wellbeing now and for future
The group, known for pioneering wellbeing for guests and associates, is rolling out an organisational wellbeing index to assess and respond to associates’ wellbeing, as well as a regional tele-therapy service to help support emotional and mental health. Self-care, mindfulness and resilience modules are already available for both associates and guests.
Within the SafeSanctuary programme, additional global standards will focus on deep rest through sleep, activities emphasising the connection to nature, and culinary offerings emphasising plant-forward menus and ingredient integrity.
“Banyan Tree Group’s primary mission is to create sanctuaries to live well, and is dedicating all efforts to ensure a safe sanctuary for guests’ return,” a statement read.
Banyan Tree operates three resorts in Maldives: Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Angsana Ihuru in North Male Atoll, and Angsana Velavaru in Dhaalu atoll.
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.
Vabbinfaru 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.
Velavaru or ‘Turtle Island’ is located in the pristine Dhaalu atoll, and accessible by a 40-minute seaplane flight from the main Velana International Airport. This 113-villa resort offers 79 island villas and 34 InOcean Villas, revealing spectacular views and direct access to the Indian Ocean.
Cooking
Michelin magic in Maldives: Chef Wassim Hallal’s spring residency at Soneva Fushi

Danish chef Wassim Hallal will be hosting an exclusive residency at Soneva Fushi’s Flying Sauces from March 17 to May 12, 2025, bringing his two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Frederikshøj, to the world’s first fine dining zipline experience. As spring unfolds in the Maldives, guests will have the opportunity to soar along a 200-meter zipline route to reach an elevated dining platform, where breathtaking views, intuitive service, and Hallal’s masterful culinary creations await.
A pioneer of modern Nordic cuisine, Hallal’s passion for gastronomy has driven him to redefine fine dining in Denmark. His culinary journey began at a young age, leading him to refine his craft in some of Europe’s most prestigious kitchens. Under his leadership, Frederikshøj in Aarhus has earned two Michelin stars, recognized for its innovative approach, precision, and use of the finest seasonal ingredients.
During his highly anticipated spring residency at Soneva Fushi, Hallal will bring the essence of Frederikshøj to the Maldives, offering an unforgettable tasting experience that merges contemporary Nordic techniques with the island’s exceptional organic produce. His culinary philosophy pays tribute to the natural world, shaped by his environment and the evolving landscape of modern gastronomy. His style masterfully balances the refinement of French haute cuisine with the boundary-pushing creativity of New Nordic cooking, infused with global influences that drive his innovation.
At Frederikshøj, his commitment to excellence is evident in the meticulous selection of the finest local ingredients. A true culinary craftsman, he embraces experimentation, constantly redefining flavour, texture, and technique to create dishes that leave a lasting impression. Each plate serves as a canvas—an expression of creativity, refinement, and evolution—always seeking to push the boundaries of what is possible.
While in the Maldives, Hallal and his team will seamlessly blend Frederikshøj’s distinctive culinary ethos with Soneva Fushi’s organic seasonal produce, crafting a two-Michelin-starred dining experience designed to surprise, delight, and linger in the memories of guests long after the final course.
Featured
Elemental escape: Sirru Fen Fushi’s Earth Hour celebration

Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort invites guests to disconnect from the ordinary and immerse themselves in nature through a purposeful evening that celebrates the four elements—Earth, Fire, Water, and Air. Under the Maldivian night sky, visitors embark on a sensory journey of mindful indulgence, blending sustainability, gastronomy, and elemental experiences.
A specially curated four-course menu takes diners on a sensory culinary experience, with each dish inspired by the four elements—paying tribute to nature’s balance and harmony. Carefully crafted to awaken the senses, this exquisite feast seamlessly merges sustainability with culinary artistry.
- Fire – Bold, smoky flavours that ignite the palate and awaken the senses.
- Earth – Deep, grounding flavours that honor the richness of the land.
- Water – Fresh, locally sourced ingredients that capture the purity and fluidity of the ocean.
- Air – Light, ethereal textures that embody the essence of the sky.
Set on the tranquil shores of Onu Onu Beach, this exclusive dining experience is illuminated by candlelight, offering a fusion of sustainable elegance and mindful gastronomy in observance of Earth Hour. The experience is priced at US$ 180 per person.
As the lights dim, Sirru Fen Fushi transforms into a sanctuary of reflection, connection, and sustainability, offering curated experiences designed to engage the senses:
- Fire – A vibrant Boduberu performance, bonfire, and dance bring the energy of the Maldives to life.
- Water – Handcrafted Earth-inspired mixology reflects nature’s purity.
- Air – Long-exposure photography at YASH Photo Studio captures the magic of the night.
- Earth – An exclusive stargazing session, guided by SpaceCat Astrotourism, offers a chance to reconnect with the universe.
Sirru Fen Fushi’s Earth Hour celebration represents a commitment to sustainability and mindful living. Guests are encouraged to unplug, embrace nature’s elements, and contribute to a global movement toward a more conscious and sustainable future.
Family
Easter festivities at Le Méridien Maldives: perfect family getaway

This Easter, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa invites families to immerse themselves in a world of adventure, creativity, and island indulgence. From April 13th to 20th, a week of festive celebrations takes place across the resort, where children embark on magical discoveries, and parents enjoy the warmth of endless summer.
At the Family Kids Hub, excitement fills the air as young explorers dive into Easter-themed arts and crafts, engage in hands-on cooking workshops, and take part in interactive games designed to spark curiosity and imagination. The highlight of the celebrations is the much-anticipated Easter Egg Hunt, where children follow hidden clues across the island in search of sweet surprises, with a special visit from the Easter Bunny.
Beyond the Kids Hub, families can embark on unforgettable island experiences. The Marine Conservation Hub introduces children to the wonders of the underwater world, while guided snorkelling and dolphin cruises offer the opportunity to observe graceful creatures in their natural habitat. Adventure continues on land with beach games, sunset walks, and friendly matches on the resort’s padel court, providing moments of connection and laughter for all ages.
Easter at Le Méridien Maldives is also a journey of flavours. Curated dining experiences invite families to come together and savor life’s simplest pleasures. Easter weekend unfolds at La Vie with a sunset cocktail on the beach, where chilled rosé and golden hues create the perfect moment to pause and indulge. A five-course wine pairing dinner follows, guiding guests on an exquisite culinary journey, with each dish thoughtfully crafted to complement the finest wine selections. On Easter Sunday, the signature Au Soleil pool party brings the festivities to life, with poolside beats, live cooking stations, and crisp rosé for a relaxed afternoon under the Maldivian sun. The festivities culminate in a grand buffet featuring a sizzling barbecue grill, live cooking stations, and live music, bringing families together for a joyful island feast.
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