HOTEL OVERVIEW

Cast away on a secluded coral atoll in the paradisiacal Maldives archipelago, you experience a sense of magic, romance and tranquility at Banyan Tree Maldives Vabbinfaru that's second to none. Time moves imperceptibly, while the gentle touch of the warm sun kames you recall wondrous dreams once forgotten. You'll find paradise here - catching the salty tang of the sea breeze as you wake up in the morning, swimming in between the wondrous sea creatures that dwell forty feet below, luxuriating in the pampered comfort of your own elegant villa and marveling at the magnificent splash of stars in the night.

The Maldives is the best-kept secret of the Indian Ocean, 'paradise lost' waiting to be rediscovered. The 26 atolls and 1,190 beautiful sun-kissed islands south of Sri Lanka.

Stay at the lavish Vabbinfaru Villa for an extravagant beach hideaway with a personal touch. Enjoy the luxury of a large landscaped garden with ocean views, al fresco living pavilion, beach "sala" pavilion, sundeck, jet pool and outdoor shower. Ample space makes the Vabbinfaru Villa ideal for small wedding parties; yet, priceless privacy can be found within each villa. Sit back and let the shooting stars fall into your lap.

The natural beauty of Vabbinfaru Island can now be experienced in the plush comfort of the new Deluxe Beachfront Villa. The stylish interior has been designed to be bright and breezy - it opens on to a large sundeck at the front that leads to the powder-soft beach and into a glitzy bathroom at the back with an outdoor jet pool and shower. Here you can take part in the play of nature and count the hues of the changing sky, as the stunning sunrise, sunset and star-filled night sky leave their shimmering reflections on the lagoon.

Tuck into scrumptious Maldivian and International treats in the casual setting of Ilaafathi restaurant. Set right on the beach with a natural Alang-Alang roof, this beachfront eatery serves extravagant buffet breakfasts and superb set dinners that will make you come back for more.

As you hear the waves and feel the gentle breezes of the Indian Ocean, a stillness of spirit pervades your body and soul. In the sensuous spa environment of Banyan Tree Maldives we will soothe your senses, calm frazzled nerves and enhance your well being. There are many ways to rejuvenate your inner and outer self here, from the refreshing effects of aromatherapy to heavenly massages amidst sweet floral scents.

Recreation
As a Five Star Golden Palm PADI Dive Center, Banyan Tree offers the full range of PADI and Nitrox courses. We pay individual attention to each guest, so courses and dives are conducted in small groups. Our professional instructors teach in different languages and take great care to create an environment that's truly relaxed. No stress, just pure fun and safe diving!

Many resorts offer "mass diving". Banyan Tree is different - we have set ourselves the mission to create ecological awareness amongst our guests, pursue research in coral growth and pioneer projects supporting marine life. From the beginner's Resort Course to the PADI Open Water Course, you will be taught in great detail about the ocean and its fascinating life.

Imagine - Banyan Tree employs dedicated marine biologists who offer environmental dives and eco-safaris, on which they share their expert knowledge. You will be introduced to the unique Lotus and Turtle Research Projects, which have earned Banyan Tree the prestigious PATA (Pacific Asia Travel Association) Award 2002 for Corporate Environmental Programme. So if you dive with us, you will discover the mysterious creatures of the ocean and leave with a much better understanding of the "Blue Planet".