Awe-inspiring Experiences for the Senses Curated by Banyan Tree

  • February 10, 2015
Awe-inspiring Experiences for the Senses Curated by Banyan Tree
SIGHT

  • A sunrise painting in Huangshan: Overlooking Mount Huangshan, guests at Banyan Tree Hangzhou (pictured above) become part of the backdrop made famous by Chinese watercolor paintings. The sunrise here takes one's breath away with warm hues of orange and reds mixing with the deep purple colors of the retreating night shadowed across the mountain landscape.



  • Falcons swooping in the Arabian sky: As the only resort offering falconry courses in the UAE, the private nature reserve surrounding Banyan Tree Al Wadi is home to exotic desert wildlife such as falcons, hawks, kestrels, owls and eagles; as well as Oryx and Arabian gazelle. Surrounded by Bedouin-style tented pool villas, Ghaf trees and sand dunes, guests are invited to enjoy the resort's falconry demonstration where magical birds soar free across the Arabian sky.



SOUND

  • Lull and crash of waves in the Seychelles: Perched atop a hillside on possibly the best beach in the Seychelles, Intendance Bay, the soundtrack greeting guests at Banyan Tree Seychelles is the magnificent Indian Ocean crashing against soft white sand and granite boulders. Accompanied by the sound of waves, guests are lulled into a deep sense of relaxation during an open-air massage at the resort's award-winning spa.



  • Beating drums of the Maldives: Made from stingray hide, the bodu beru is a traditional instrument used in Maldivian celebrations. Accompanied by a dance of the same name, the bodu beru infuses the hum of island rhythm deep into travellers' souls. Guests arriving at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru are greeted by traditional bodu beru drummers, imbuing a treasured beat that remains well after they return home.



SMELL

  • Heady incense in Mexico: Billowing incense combined with the ocean breeze provides the perfect aromatherapy for guests. Restful fragrances such as lavender and night queen are placed in the villas at Banyan Tree Cabo Marques each evening, ensuring a deep sleep high on the cliffs above the Pacific Ocean. Available through Banyan Tree Gallery, guests can purchase Banyan Tree's incense, recreating the rejuvenating effects of their favorite fragrances in their own home.



  • Exotic Ingredients of Vietnam: Spread across the lush, unspoiled landscape of Central Vietnam, guests can embrace the beauty and splendor of nature at Banyan Tree Lang Co's organic vegetable and herb garden. With a wide variety of leafy green vegetables and local herbs such as spicy chili peppers, fresh mint and basil; delectable freshness is savored in every dish at the resort.



TOUCH

  • Saving Trees in Bintan: Raising awareness for climate change and terrestrial protection in Indonesia, Banyan Tree Bintan's conservation laboratory opened in 2007. While undergoing tree surveys, the laboratory found an area of the resort hosted a thriving population of Shorea falcifera, an endangered and uncommon tree variety. The property now invites guests to engage in environmental research and be part of its tree planting initiatives. Digging the earth and planting young saplings continues to be key in conserving this endangered species.



  • The Royal Banyan Treatment in Samui: The intuitive, healing touch of Banyan Tree Spa therapists, carefully honed at Banyan Tree's dedicated Spa Academies, is best experienced through the signature Royal Banyan treatment at Banyan Tree Samui. Combining Asian and Western techniques, the Royal Banyan massage uses a pouch dipped in warm sesame oil, designed to improve blood circulation and muscular tension, followed by a gentle Jade facial, which improves skin condition and firms facial muscles, leaving a glowing complexion.



TASTE

  • Discover fiery spices in Mexico: A cool getaway steeped in Mexican-Caribbean charm, Banyan Tree Mayakoba is renowned for its cuisine. Specializing in both Thai and Mexican fare, guests can take cooking classes to discover exotic spices and learn how to unleash feisty flavors in their favorite dishes. With Panunchos, Churros and Tom Kha Gai as well as pungent curries infused with mouth-watering chili and tangy lime, guests can earn their East-meets-West culinary stripes in no time.



  • The secrets of a simple snack in Phuket: The signature cracker served at Banyan Tree Phuket's Thai restaurant, Saffron, appears simple – an airy, crunchy snack with colorful threads of saffron, kaffir lime and chili. Once tasted, though, the cracker seems anything but, offering a mouthwatering multitude of fresh Thai flavors to create a delicious treat, a perfect pairing with the tartness of the restaurant's famous Thai papaya salad.


Visit website: www.banyantree.com