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Thirty Years of the Original Maldives: Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru Unveils ‘A Season to Return’ Festive Celebration

 

This festive season, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru invites travellers to return to where the story of the Original Maldives began — a sanctuary of barefoot elegance, ocean tranquillity, and heartfelt connection.
From 22 December 2025 to 10 January 2026, the island marks its 30-year journey with the theme “A Season to Return” — a celebration of gratitude and renewal, where moments of wellbeing, community, and culinary artistry come together in harmony.
Spa and Wellbeing: Moments of Reflection and Renewal
The festive season offers a moment to slow down and restore balance — to reconnect with what truly matters. Begin each day with sunrise yoga, or meditation by the ocean, and embrace renewal through regenerative spa rituals at the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa, honoured by the Travel + Leisure Asia Awards 2025.
Highlights include the New Year’s Yoga Awakening on the Lagoon Platform, Gratitude Meditation, and Herbal Massage Oil Workshops, each reflecting Banyan Tree’s holistic approach to wellbeing — harmonising nature, mindfulness, and rejuvenation as the new year unfolds.
Culinary Artistry & Festive Flavours
A celebration of global flavours meets local inspiration across the resort’s three restaurants and two bars.
Dinner Experiences
Every evening unveils a story of flavour and sense of place. From the Thai Degustation dinner at Saffron, where delicate spices dance in harmony, to the elegant Omakase & Sake Pairing at the award-winning Madi Hiyaa, each dining course tells a story that delights the senses.
At Sangu Garden, themed evenings such as Maldivian Oasis or Fisherman’s Night celebrate the island’s vibrant heritage. The Orthodox Night, designed in honour of the Russian New Year, brings warmth and festivity to the season — a candlelit dinner under the stars featuring ocean-fresh delicacies and soulful live music.
Tastings & Pairings
The art of indulgence continues with Japanese Lobster and Champagne Dinners, Lagoon Wine and Chocolate Tastings, and more, curated to awaken curiosity and delight. Set within the breathtaking tranquility of Madi Hiyaa, the resort’s overwater restaurant overlooking the Indian Ocean, these evenings unfold beneath golden skies – a celebration of togetherness and the timeless beauty of the Maldives.
Cooking & Mixology Classes
For those who delight in creation, the Saffron Signature Cooking Class, Maldivian Curry Class, and Island Barman Japanese Cocktail Workshop invite participation in delightful culinary experiences, guided by the resort’s culinary talents and infused with the joy of creation.
Festive Celebrations
As the sun sets, the island transforms into a haven of warmth and connection — from the Christmas Eve Sunset Cocktails and New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner with Masquerade theme and Countdown by the beach, to traditional Bodu Beru performances under the stars. Every moment reflects the resort’s heartfelt hospitality and a legacy that continues to nurture connection, wellbeing, and a sense of belonging.
Celebration with Purpose
In line with the brand ethos “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People,” guests can take part in meaningful activities led by the resort’s pioneering Marine Lab — the first of its kind in the Maldives. From Christmas Coral Micro-Fragmentation Plantingand Save the Reef snorkels to local reef clean-ups and educational marine talks, every experience supports the island’s long-standing conservation mission.
A Season to Return
With the theme “A Season to Return”, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru’s festive programme embodies the spirit of the resort’s 30-year journey — a tribute to the people, culture, and a heritage that continue to shape the Original Maldives for generations to come.
Travellers returning to Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru this festive season will enjoy exclusive benefits including savings on villa stays for booking from five (5) nights and other exclusive perks, thoughtfully designed to inspire joy, balance, and renewal.
As another year draws to a close, A Season to Return invites moments of gratitude and gentle anticipation for new beginnings — a celebration of love and romance, and the beauty of returning to where it all began.

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