Connect with us

News

Banyan Tree’s 30th anniversary: Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru invites travellers to rediscover original Maldives in barefoot eco-luxury

Published

on

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru joins the global celebration of the 30th anniversary celebrations of Banyan Tree, the flagship brand of Banyan Group. Honouring its legacy as the true barefoot eco-luxury Sanctuary for the Senses, the resort unveils newly refreshed villas, an expanded Our Marine Lab, two new restaurants – Saffron and Sangu Garden – and a collection of curated guest experiences. These highlights invite travellers to rediscover the romance of travel and experience the original Maldives as they connect deeply with the heartbeat of island life.

“We are proud to celebrate Banyan Tree’s 30th anniversary at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru,” says Hery Kuswoyo, General Manager. “This milestone reflects a deep commitment to sustainable tourism and preserving the essence of the Maldives as it was meant to be experienced. Through refreshed villas, immersive wellbeing experiences, and meaningful connections with the local community, we honour Banyan Tree’s legacy as a sanctuary for the senses while inviting guests to rediscover the original Maldives in all its natural beauty and authenticity.”

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru’s Refreshed Villas: Timeless Elegance Meets Maldivian Heritage Nestled in the North Malé Atoll, just a 25-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru is an intimate sanctuary of 48 all-pool villas in a tropical paradise surrounded by white sand beaches, lush vegetation, and pristine coral reefs. This barefoot luxury retreat seamlessly combines privacy with direct access to the ocean’s wonders.

Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a heartfelt Maldivian welcome, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of traditional Bodu Beru drums. The signature “barefoot ritual” invites them to ground themselves in the soft sands, embracing the island’s serene spirit. Check-in unfolds as a seamless, intimate experience as guests are guided directly to their villa, with a Toddy Master serving a traditional coconut drink in a ceremony that honours the essence of the island.

At the heart of the newly refreshed villas lies the Thundu Kunaa Art Wall, a handwoven masterpiece crafted by Maldivian artisans over 12 months, showcasing intricate patterns of cultural significance. Complementing this is an exclusive collection of watercolours by Male’s renowned artist, Ahmed Nazim, celebrating the Maldives’ rich maritime traditions. Every detail has been thoughtfully crafted with sustainability in mind, from handwoven textiles inspired by traditional Maldivian sarongs to richly grained wood chosen for its environmental sensitivity from Responsible Sourcing Supplier. Signature touches, such as handmade cotton mosquito nets and solar-lit outdoor spaces, create a seamless harmony between modern luxury and the natural charm of the Maldives.

Our Marine Lab: Pioneering Ocean Conservation

The expanded Marine Lab reinforces Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru’s leadership in marine conservation. Established in 2004 as the first resort-based facility of its kind in the Maldives, Our Marine Lab has been at the forefront for nearly two decades of dedication to marine conservation, led by the passion and efforts of the Banyan Group’s team of scientists, resident marine biologists, conservationists, and hospitality professionals.

The new facility includes a discovery centre with diverse marine biodiversity programmes, including hands-on conservation activities such as educational workshops, coral planting, reef cleaning, and guided snorkelling tours. The programmes offer a unique blend of education and action, allowing participants to contribute meaningfully to conservation while immersing themselves in the unparalleled beauty of the Maldives’ pristine marine ecosystems.

A key initiative is the Marine Environment Officer (MEO) Seedlings Programme, a groundbreaking collaboration with the Maldives National University (MNU). This first-of-its-kind partnership between the private sector and an educational institution offers a foundational course for a Bachelor’s in Marine Science, accredited by the Maldives Qualification Authority. Students receive certification from MNU and gain hands-on experience at the resort in coral restoration techniques such as micro-fragmentation and transplantation, maintaining coral nurseries, marine lab operations, and fish and coral biology. The program also includes essential skills like survey and data collection techniques, ecological studies, and a PADI Open Water diving course. Fully funded by Banyan Group’s Seedlings Programme, the course is offered free of charge, empowering local communities with the skills and knowledge to contribute to marine restoration.

These milestones mark the beginning of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru’s journey toward its own 30th anniversary in 2025. Over the years, the resort has become a benchmark for sustainable luxury and exceptional guest experiences. Its dedication to environmental stewardship was recognised at the TTM Awards 2024 by Travel Trade Maldives, where it was honoured as the ‘Most Sustainable Resort,’ reinforcing its position as a pioneer of eco-friendly hospitality in the Maldives with its holistic approach to environmental stewardship.

Serenity in Nature’s Embrace

New wellbeing experiences invite guests to connect deeply with nature while fostering a sense of relaxation and harmony. Guests can experience Lagoon Floating Therapy, where they drift effortlessly on gentle waves as guided reflection brings a profound sense of inner peace. For a more immersive journey, Underwater Meditation invites guests to descend into the tranquil depths of the ocean, synchronising each breath with the soothing rhythm of the sea.

Saffron Restaurant: A Celebration of Thai Culinary Artistry

Recently recognised in the MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024, Saffron is the Banyan Tree brand’s signature Thai dining experience, blending heritage recipes with a contemporary twist to create a feast for the senses and a deep connection to its destination.

As part of the weeklong celebrations at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru from 27 November to 7 December, the Grand Opening of Saffron Restaurant is headlined by Chef Tipaporn Phianthong (Chef Tipa), the Saffron Lead Chef for Banyan Group. Renowned for her innovative approach to Thai cuisine, Chef Tipa brings over a decade of experience at prestigious international resorts and gained widespread acclaim as a participant in Top Chef Thailand 2023.

Throughout the event, Chef Tipa presents a curated menu that reimagines authentic Thai flavours with modern sophistication. This culinary journey honours traditional Thai techniques while incorporating subtle local influences, promising an unforgettable experience of artistry and flavour.

Sangu Garden: A Gastronomy Journey Through the Maldives

Step into the serene elegance of the new Sangu Garden Restaurant, where nature-inspired design meets contemporary sophistication. Crafted with sustainable materials such as special bamboo and alang-alang leaves sourced from Bali, the space seamlessly harmonises with its surroundings, reflecting the resort’s eco-conscious ethos. The menu highlights responsibly sourced seafood, meats, and local produce, complemented by live cooking stations, interactive dining experiences and self-caught fish grills, culminating in a celebration of Maldivian flavours, timeless artistry, and sustainable living.

Michelin-starred Guest Chef Elevating Sustainable Dining at Award-Winning Madi Hiyaa The celebrations feature an exclusive dining experience at Madi Hiyaa, the Prix Versailles award-winning Japanese restaurant where stunning design meets sustainable luxury. For four nights only, Michelin-starred Chef Hideaki Nagaya takes centre stage, showcasing his masterful fusion of Japanese and French techniques and presenting a menu inspired by his philosophy of “pure, simple, and seasonal” cuisine. Set in the serene overwater pavilion with panoramic views, Madi Hiyaa’s distinctive bamboo structure creates an immersive dining experience that perfectly complements his refined creations.

Exclusive Dine-around concept

With the resort’s exclusive dine-around concept, guests can immerse in a culinary journey that celebrates the flavours of the Maldives and beyond and revel in the ultimate experience with the All-Inclusive package, offering unlimited drinks, afternoon tea, and exclusive offers on spa treatments, diving, and more.

News

Sirru Fen Fushi unveils summer getaway offer for couples and families

Published

on

As summer unfolds across the Indian Ocean, Sirru Fen Fushi–Private Lagoon Resort, a proud member of The Leading Hotels of the World, invites travellers to discover a slower, more relaxed side of the Maldives with its Last-Minute Summer Escape special offer, designed for couples and families seeking meaningful time together in a naturally beautiful island setting.

Nestled within one of the largest lagoons in the Maldives, Sirru Fen Fushi–Private Lagoon Resort offers a distinctive blend of privacy, space, and authentic island experiences. Surrounded by white sandy beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and vibrant marine life, the resort provides an idyllic setting for summer holidays, whether travelling as a couple, family, or multi-generational group.

Available for a limited time, the Last-Minute Summer Escape combines exceptional seasonal value with thoughtful inclusions designed to enhance every stay. Guests can enjoy daily breakfast at Raha Market, dine-around dinners across the resort’s restaurants, complimentary stays and dining for children under 12, and villa upgrades subject to availability.

Beyond its natural beauty, Sirru Fen Fushi offers a diverse range of experiences for all ages. Guests can explore the resort’s Sustainability Lab, take part in coral planting and recycling workshops, enjoy a wide selection of water sports and marine excursions, discover arts and crafts activities, join wellness experiences, or spend quality time together through sports and recreational activities across the island.

With spacious villas, family-friendly facilities, and experiences designed to appeal to every generation, the resort offers an effortless way to create meaningful memories during the summer season.

Summer is a wonderful time to experience Sirru Fen Fushi. Families have more time to travel together, children can immerse themselves in nature and discovery, and guests can enjoy the freedom to explore our island at a relaxed pace. The Last-Minute Summer Escape combines these experiences with added value, making it even easier to create meaningful memories in the Maldives.

For further information and reservations, please visit the resort’s website or contact reservations@sirrufenfushi.com.

Continue Reading

Awards

Sun Siyam earns prestigious design accolades at International Property Awards

Published

on

Sun Siyam, the Maldivian-owned hospitality group operating six resorts across the Maldives and Sri Lanka, has been recognised with two awards at the International Property Awards Asia Pacific, one of the world’s most respected benchmarks for excellence in architecture, design, and real estate. The awards were presented in Bangkok, Thailand, and celebrate outstanding design achievement across two of the group’s most distinguished properties: Sun Siyam Pasikudah in Sri Lanka and Sun Siyam Iru Fushi in the Maldives.

The International Property Awards are judged by an independent panel of more than 80 industry experts and are widely regarded as a gold standard for design and architectural achievement across the Asia Pacific region. Sun Siyam received the Award for Hotel Interiors — Sri Lanka for Sun Siyam Pasikudah, and the Award for Hotel Suite Interiors — Maldives for the Deluxe Water Villa at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi. Both projects were led by London-based Studio Sixty7, founded by Jose Rivero and Lee McNichol.

Both award-winning projects were realised through a long-standing creative partnership between Sun Siyam and Studio Sixty7, a London-based interior design practice whose work is distinguished by its sensitivity to context, materiality, and the spirit of a place. Both Jose and Lee guided the design transformation of two very different island environments, the Sri Lankan coastline and the Maldivian lagoon, while maintaining a coherent philosophy: that luxury should feel earned by the land it sits in, not imposed upon it.

“We are so proud to have received two awards at the International Property Awards Asia Pacific, for Sun Siyam Pasikudah in Sri Lanka and Sun Siyam Iru Fushi in the Maldives. These projects mean a great deal to us. The work we have done with Sun Siyam has pushed us to design spaces that are truly rooted in their environment — not just aesthetically, but in the way they feel and the way guests experience them. To have that recognised is something we are really proud of as a studio. We could not have done it without the Sun Siyam team. They have trusted us with their vision, given us the space to do our best work, and shared our belief that luxury and a deep respect for place are not competing ideas. We are deeply grateful for that partnership, and proud to be part of what they are building, “ said Jose Rivero and Lee McNichol, Co-founders, Studio Sixty7.

Set on a private island in Noonu Atoll where Maldivian magic meets its most elevated expression, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is the flagship of Sun Siyam’s Luxury Collection, a five-star sanctuary where considered design, curated calm, and experiences crafted entirely to your taste come together effortlessly. Generous enough for families, intimate enough for romance, and restorative enough for those who need it most, the resort offers 15 dining and bar venues, an award-winning spa with over 165 treatments, and the largest diving centre in the region. The International Property Award for Hotel Suite Interiors recognises the resort’s newly reimagined Deluxe Water Villa, the first chapter of a resort wide design transformation under the creative direction of Studio Sixty7, and a fitting reflection of a place where every detail is an invitation to stay a little longer.

The new aesthetic introduces muted tones, natural textures, and softly sculpted forms — gently imperfect plastered walls, tactile finishes, and breathable linen creating an atmosphere that is relaxed yet unmistakably elevated. Each villa is conceived as a frame for the ocean: open-plan, serene, with a bathroom offering direct lagoon views. Private decks with suspended hammocks and soft green accents invite stillness, while Horizon Water Villas add a 22 sqm private pool and sunken seating spaces made for sunrise rituals and slow Maldivian afternoons.

“Every element has been chosen to feel grounded and sensorial, inviting guests into a deep sense of calm,” said Lee McNichol and Jose Rivero.

Nestled along a pristine stretch of coastline on Sri Lanka’s northeast shore, Sun Siyam Pasikudah is a boutique retreat of 34 contemporary pavilions and part of the Privé Collection under The House of Siyam. The resort underwent an extensive transformation and reopened in November 2023, reimagined from the ground up with new colour concepts, fittings, furnishings, and offerings, while preserving the original structure that gives the property its architectural character.

The International Property Award for Hotel Interiors — Sri Lanka reflects the depth and integrity of that renovation. Central to the design was a commitment to local craftsmanship: the transformation was realised in close collaboration with Sri Lankan artisans and community woodworkers, with bespoke furniture, handmade chandeliers, and joinery items created locally and woven throughout the interiors. The result is a property that feels genuinely rooted in its surroundings , not imported but grown from the island itself. Nearly 90 percent of the resort’s staff come from surrounding communities, a figure that speaks to a philosophy that extends well beyond interior design and into the daily life of the property.

Continue Reading

News

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru marks Global Wellness Day with island wellbeing journey

Published

on

In celebration of Global Wellness Day, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru invites guests to embrace a month of experiences inspired by the rhythms of island life. Guided by this year’s global theme, JoyMagenta, the programme celebrates joy through movement, creativity, connection and gratitude — from nourishing culinary experiences and mindful rituals to a reflective Full Moon gathering beneath the June Strawberry Moon.

Inspired by Banyan Tree Wellbeing’s eight pillars, the month’s experiences encourage guests to slow down, cultivate awareness, and discover simple practices that support a balanced and joyful way of life amidst the natural beauty of the Maldives, under the guidance of the resort’s resident wellbeing practitioner, Dr Sharma.

Celebrating Global Wellness Day

On 13 June, guests are invited to take part in a thoughtfully curated programme inspired by Banyan Tree’s integrated approach to well-living and this year’s Global Wellness Day theme, JoyMagenta.

The day begins with Sunrise Yoga and a Facelift Home-care Workshop, encouraging movement, mindfulness and self-care through simple practices that can be incorporated into everyday life.

At Sangu Garden, a Wellness Cooking Class celebrates nourishment through fresh, healthy ingredients, while a Wellness Mixology Class at Naiboli Bar explores creativity through wellness-inspired mocktails crafted with local ingredients such as butterfly pea flower, coconut water, turmeric, ginger and tropical fruits.

As the sun begins to soften, a Grounded Beach Walk Meditation by the beach invites guests to slow down, tune into the natural surroundings and embrace the calming pace of island life.

Together, these experiences reflect the spirit of JoyMagenta, celebrating joy through movement, creativity, connection and gratitude while encouraging small, intentional practices that enrich everyday life.

International Yoga Day

Building on the month’s focus on joyful movement and mindful living, the celebration continues on 21 June with International Yoga Day, marked by a special Sunset Yoga session on the beach.

As sunset settles across the lagoon and the sound of the ocean waves fills the air, guests are invited to move with intention, focus on their breath, and embrace the tranquillity of the moment. Guided by the natural rhythm of the island, the session creates space to slow down, cultivate awareness and arrive fully in the present moment.

The Fire Within Full Moon Ritual

The month unfolds on 29 June with The Fire Within, a special Full Moon Ritual taking place beneath the Strawberry Moon.

Known as a moon of warmth, rhythm and renewal, the June full moon arrives as the ocean responds to its gentle pull and moonlight shimmers across the lagoon. Inspired by themes of growth, courage and new possibilities, The Fire Within combines sound healing and reflective practices that encourage guests to pause, reconnect and create space for new intentions. Set beneath the moonlit sky and immersed in the natural beauty of the Maldives, the ritual offers a meaningful opportunity to slow down, listen inward and move forward with greater clarity and purpose.

Discover the Banyan Tree Wellbeing Sanctuary

To complement the Full Moon Ritual, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru will offer a limited-time Full Moon Wellbeing Package from 26 to 30 June 2026. Designed for guests seeking a deeper immersion in the month’s experiences, the package combines a private yoga session, a personalised wellbeing treatment at Banyan Tree Spa, and participation in The Fire Within.

For guests wishing to extend their wellbeing journey, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru also offers its Wellbeing Sanctuary experience — a curated retreat that brings together movement, mindful practices, nourishing cuisine and personalised spa therapies. Inspired by Banyan Tree Wellbeing’s philosophy of connection with self, others and nature, the experience invites guests to immerse themselves in a more intentional rhythm of island life while embracing the restorative qualities of the Maldives.

“Wellbeing often begins by paying attention to the present moment,” said Dr Sharma, Resident Wellbeing Practitioner of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru. “Whether through movement, nourishment, time in nature or quiet reflection, these experiences invite guests to reconnect with what supports their wellbeing in ways that feel personal and meaningful.”

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending

Copyright all rights reserved by Maldives Promotion House 2023.