Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru Unveils a Wellbeing Journey

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, a tranquil island retreat combining eco-luxury and authenticity, introduces Banyan Tree Connections. Available starting May 2025, this private, immersive wellbeing experience invites guests to reconnect with themselves, loved ones, and nature. Designed for couples, friends, and families, the programme offers a transformative escape into the heart of the Maldives.

Banyan Tree Connections provides a series of curated rituals, mindfulness practices, and movement to help guests slow down and reconnect. As an addition to villa stays, the programme allows guests to experience the Maldives in a deeply personal and rejuvenating way.

Hery Koswoyo, General Manager of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, discussed the inspiration behind Banyan Tree Connections, stating:

“Banyan Tree Connections was created in response to a universal longing for deeper relationships, genuine presence, and time well spent together. Here at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, our tranquil island setting offers a natural canvas for this journey where each moment is intentional and every experience grounded in the essence of the original Maldives.”

The Banyan Tree Connections Experience at Vabbinfaru

Guests can choose between two immersive programmes: a 2-night or a 3-night experience. Both programmes nurture balance, presence, and togetherness while immersing guests in the island’s natural beauty. Here’s a closer look at what each programme offers:

2-Night Programme: A Restorative Journey

Day 1:
- Wellbeing Consultation: Personalize your journey with a consultation to understand your needs and goals.
- Private Yoga Duo Session: Align your body and breath with a calming yoga session.
- Herbal Oil & Reflexology Workshop: Relax and rejuvenate with traditional healing techniques.
- Breathwork & Sound Meditation: Clear your mind and find balance through a calming session.
- Time Together Spa Treatment (90 minutes): Share a renewing spa experience to foster connection.
- Private Sunset Cruise: Enjoy a peaceful cruise across the atoll and reconnect with nature.
- Saffron Thai Dinner: End the day with a shared dinner, complemented by wellness snacks and a welcome gift.
Day 2:
- Spend the day reflecting and enjoying the serene island atmosphere. Moreover, this time offers an opportunity to embrace the stillness and tranquility of the surroundings.

3-Night Programme: A Deeper Immersion

Day 1:
- Wellbeing Consultation: Tailor your experience with a personalized consultation.
- Private Yoga Duo Session
- Herbal Oil & Reflexology Workshop
- Breathwork & Sound Meditation
- Time Together Spa Treatment (90 minutes)
- Private Sunset Cruise
- Saffron Thai Dinner & Wellness Snacks
Day 2:
- Conscious Grounding Session: Ground yourself with a session on the beach to connect with the earth.
- Maldivian Cooking Class: Learn traditional Maldivian cooking techniques and immerse yourself in local culture.
- Lagoon Floating Therapy Session: Relax and float in the lagoon, experiencing total calm.
- Holistic Wellbeing Treatment: Choose between acupuncture or cupping therapy to deepen your healing.
- Saffron Thai Dinner & Wellness Snacks
Day 3:
- Spend your final day reflecting and unwinding amidst the pristine beauty of the Maldives. In addition, this day allows you to savor your time together and fully embrace the peaceful atmosphere.

Global Expansion: Banyan Tree Connections Around the World

Banyan Tree Connections isn’t limited to Vabbinfaru. It will also be available at selected Banyan Tree properties worldwide, each offering unique cultural and natural elements.

Banyan Tree Phuket, Thailand (Launching June 2025): A 2-night programme set among lush tropical gardens and lagoons. Guests will enjoy practices like Sound Healing Meditation, Private Yoga Duo sessions, and a Herbal Oil & Reflexology Workshop. In addition, a Lagoon Kayak experience offers tranquil exploration, while a Japanese-inspired dinner at Hojo completes the experience.
Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Mexico (Launching July 2025): This 2- and 3-night programme blends Mayan-inspired rituals with mindfulness practices. Guests will experience Mangrove Movement, Drum Breathwork Meditation, a Temazcal purification ritual, and a Recycled Paper Workshop. To wrap up the experience, the programme concludes with a vibrant La Copa Mexican dinner.
Banyan Tree Anji, China (Launching August 2025): Nestled in bamboo forests, this 2-night programme combines movement, mindfulness, and nature. Guests will enjoy a Private Duo Stretch session, Sound Healing Meditation, a 90-minute Time Together Spa Treatment, and a guided hike through Lingfeng Mountain. Additionally, they will participate in a White Tea Aroma Bath Bomb workshop, drawing from the region’s tea traditions.

A Legacy of Holistic Wellbeing

Banyan Tree has pioneered holistic wellbeing for over 30 years, continuously evolving to meet the needs of modern travellers. With the introduction of Banyan Tree Connections, the brand continues to offer transformative experiences focused on authentic connections. Available at select Banyan Tree locations worldwide, this programme offers an opportunity to slow down, reconnect, and embrace meaningful shared moments.

The Maldives continues to be a dream destination for travelers from around the world, offering pristine beaches, luxurious resorts, and crystal-clear waters. However, a few updates to the travel experience require visitors’ attention before they head to this tropical paradise. Here’s an overview of important changes in taxes, regulations, and other key Maldives travel updates for 2025 to help you plan your trip smoothly.

Departure Taxes and Airport Fees

A recent increase in departure taxes and airport fees requires all travelers’ attention.

Economy class passengers now pay $50 (up from $30).
Business class passengers pay $120 (up from $60).
First-class passengers face $240 (up from $90).
Private jet passengers are now charged $480 (previously $120).

These fees typically get included in your airline ticket, so you won’t need to pay them separately at the airport. These increased taxes support the wider effort to improve the infrastructure at Velana International Airport, ensuring it continues to serve as a world-class gateway for tourists.

Green Tax (GRT) Changes

The Green Tax, which funds the Maldives’ environmental sustainability efforts, has slightly adjusted:

Tourists staying at resorts, guesthouses, or on vessels will pay a Green Tax of $12 per day.
Infants under 2 years old are exempt from the tax.

This tax helps the Maldives maintain its delicate ecosystem and preserve its stunning natural beauty for future generations.

Tourism Goods and Services Tax (TGST) Update

The Tourism Goods and Services Tax (TGST) has increased from 16% to 17% in 2025. This could lead to small price adjustments in tourism-related services such as dining, activities, and accommodations, but it’s unlikely to drastically change your overall budget.

Visa and Health Documentation

While no significant changes have occurred in the visa process, keep the following in mind:

Visa on arrival: Most travelers will receive a 30-day visa upon arrival, free of charge. Just make sure your passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.
IMUGA Declaration: Travelers must submit a Traveler Declaration via the IMUGA portal (https://imuga.immigration.gov.mv) at least 96 hours before departure. This simple form collects your basic health and travel history, and you’ll need to present the QR code at customs upon arrival.

These requirements remain in place, ensuring the smooth entry of tourists while maintaining public health safety.

Tobacco Regulations: Duty-Free Limits

If you plan to bring tobacco products into the Maldives, be aware of the updated duty-free import limits:

200 cigarettes
25 cigars
250 grams of tobacco

Exceeding these limits may result in temporary confiscation by customs until your departure. Stricter regulations now apply to e-cigarettes.

Entry Restrictions for Israeli Passport Holders

Israeli passport holders are currently not allowed entry into the Maldives. Israeli nationals will need to use a different passport for entry, if applicable.

The Maldives is Still Waiting for You

The Maldives remains as enchanting as ever, with these minor changes helping to enhance the overall experience for tourists. From the increased taxes contributing to infrastructure upgrades to the environmental efforts supported by the Green Tax, the Maldives continues to invest in maintaining its status as a premier travel destination.

Though a few new fees and regulations require your attention, the country’s unparalleled beauty, luxurious resorts, and welcoming atmosphere make it well worth the trip. Your dream vacation is just a flight away!

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru Unveils a Wellbeing Journey for Couples and Families