Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru has unveiled newly refreshed villas, an expanded Marine Lab, two new restaurants and a collection of curated guest experiences. Set in the North Malé Atoll, a 25-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru has 48 all-pool villas surrounded by beaches and coral reefs. Signature touches in the villas include handmade cotton mosquito nets and solar-lit outdoor spaces.
The newly expanded Our Marine Lab (first established in 2004) is dedicated to marine conservation, led by the efforts of the Banyan Group’s team of scientists, resident marine biologists, conservationists and hospitality professionals. The facility now includes a discovery center with diverse marine biodiversity programs, including hands-on conservation activities such as educational workshops, coral planting, reef cleaning and guided snorkeling tours.
The resort has also introduced two new restaurants: Saffron and Sangu Garden. Recently recognized in the Michelin Guide Thailand 2024, Saffron is the Banyan Tree brand’s signature Thai dining experience. The grand opening of Saffron Restaurant was headlined by Chef Tipaporn Phianthong. Throughout the event, Chef Tipa presented a menu honoring traditional Thai techniques while incorporating subtle local influences.
Sangu Garden is built using sustainable materials such as bamboo and alang-alang leaves sourced from Bali. The menu highlights responsibly sourced seafood, meats and local produce, complemented by live cooking stations, interactive dining experiences and self-caught fish grills. Other outlets at the resort include Madi Hiyaa, the Japanese restaurant and Naiboli Bar.
With the resort’s exclusive dine-around concept, guests can enjoy a culinary journey with the all-inclusive package, offering unlimited drinks, afternoon tea, and exclusive offers on spa treatments, diving, and more.
New wellness experiences at the resort include the Lagoon Floating Therapy, where guests drift effortlessly on gentle waves as guided reflection brings a sense of inner peace. For a more immersive journey, Underwater Meditation invites guests to descend into the depths of the ocean, synchronizing each breath with the rhythm of the sea.
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