Nanku Wellbeing Spa at Punta Islita Resort: Chorotega Healing and Ancestral Rituals
Punta Islita’s Nanku Wellbeing Spa introduces a range of unique treatments designed to reconnect guests with the earth’s healing energies. Signature offerings include:
Ancestral Healing Workshop: Guests explore the therapeutic benefits of local plants like Juanilama and turmeric, known for their digestive, anti-inflammatory, and calming properties. The workshop features hands-on experiences with herbal infusions, essential oils, and traditional remedies passed down through generations.
Ancestral Moon Circle Rituals: Tailored to align with the lunar phases, these deeply restorative sessions incorporate therapeutic massages, fire ceremonies, and crystal healing, using white quartz and locally sourced herbs. Available for individuals or couples, the experience is designed to release emotional burdens and foster a sense of inner peace and renewal.
Beachfront Yoga Deck: A brand new space, surrounded by tropical vegetation and overlooking Islita Beach, offers daily yoga and meditation classes harmonize the body’s rhythms with the natural ebb and flow of the ocean.
Photo credits: Punta Islita’s Nanku Wellbeing Spa
Bearth Spa at El Mangroove Resort: Mindful Modalities and Sound Healing
El Mangroove’s Bearth Spa elevates its wellness offerings with an new menu of holistic treatments. New highlights include:
Cacao Ceremony: A heart-opening ritual using raw cacao, celebrated for its transformative properties. This experience is designed to foster self-love, emotional release, and a deeper connection to nature.
Sound Healing Therapy: Harnessing the ancient vibrations of Tibetan singing bowls and chimes, this modality aims to relax the mind, balance the body’s energy, and promote deep meditative states.
Mohari Hospitality (“Mohari”) today announced the acquisition of the Bauer Hotel in Venice, Italy. The acquisition of this iconic property is a significant addition to Mohari’s growing European portfolio, underscoring its commitment to building a collection of luxury properties with irreplaceable heritage and unique cultural resonance. Previous owner, Signa Group, had signed a management agreement with Rosewood Hotels, which will operate the property.
Mohari has made this latest acquisition alongside its strategic partner in Europe, Omnam Investment Group, a real estate investment and development group specializing in high-end, transformative hospitality with over a decade of experience in Italy and Europe, investing and developing historic and complex projects.
The Bauer Hotel is located in the heart of Venice and considered one of the city’s architectural treasures, embodying late 19th-century Venetian medieval mannerism. The property is positioned on the Grand Canal in the historic San Marco district, just steps from the world-renowned Piazza San Marco. Under its new ownership, the property will undergo an extensive restoration, recapturing its grandeur as a symbol of Venetian elegance.
“Our vision at Mohari is to establish a portfolio of unparalleled luxury hospitality destinations defined by iconic locations, heritage value, and exceptional guest experiences. The legendary Bauer Hotel fits perfectly within our vision,” said Mark Scheinberg, Founder and Principal of Mohari Hospitality.
“The Bauer is truly irreplaceable, prominently situated in the beautiful city of Venice. We are proud to have the opportunity to preserve and elevate this extraordinary jewel of a property, honoring its legacy while transforming it to become one of Europe’s most distinguished hotels.”
Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, celebrated for their global collection of remarkable destinations and expertise in reimagining heritage properties, will bring their design, restoration, and operational excellence to the project.
The Bauer Hotel joins Mohari’s growing collection of luxury European assets, following the Company’s recent acquisition of a historic Parisian property, which is set to become a luxury hotel of exceptional prominence and stature, and its previous flagship investment in the Four Seasons Hotel in Madrid, which has since become one of Europe’s most exceptional hotels.
Mohari and Omnam were advised on the acquisition by Kryalos SGR, DLA Piper, Deloitte, Eastil Secured, CBRE, and Cushman & Wakefield.
LUX* South Ari Atoll is proud to announce it has been named Best for Families in the Africa, Asia and Middle East regions at the 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence. This esteemed accolade highlights the resort’s dedication to delivering exceptional family-friendly experiences in the Maldives.
Photo credits: LUX* South Ari Atoll
Condé Nast Johansens, a trusted luxury travel guide, is renowned for its expert recommendations of the world’s finest hotels, restaurants, and travel experiences. The Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence are among the most prestigious in the hospitality industry, with winners selected by an independent panel of experts who assess accommodation quality, service, dining, and overall ambience.
“We are honoured to receive this recognition from Condé Nast Johansens,” says John Rogers, General Manager of LUX* South Ari Atoll. “Our goal is to provide families with the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, ensuring each guest, young and older, has a memorable experience. Our commitment to high standards is reflected through our family-friendly accommodation, engaging PLAY kids’ club and island experiences.”
This recognition from Condé Nast Johansens emphasises LUX* South Ari Atoll’s status as a premier destination for family travellers. From cinema under the stars and coral planting workshops to snorkelling with whale sharks and island treasure hunts, the resort continues to set the benchmark for luxury family travel globally.
For bookings and enquiries on family experiences, please visit www.luxresorts.com, contact stay@luxmaldivesresort.com, or call +960 668 0901.
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is proud to announce its achievement of the Forbes VERIFIED Responsible Hospitality badge, awarded to properties that uphold over 100 stringent standards designed to protect the environment and support the well-being of employees, guests, and local communities. This recognition reflects the resort's unwavering commitment to sustainable practices and responsible hospitality.
Photo credits: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
In a stellar year for recognition, the resort has also achieved the Green Globe Certification, a prestigious accolade that underscores its dedication to minimizing environmental impact, promoting sustainable tourism, and creating a sustainable environment for future generations. Achieving the Green Globe Certification involves a rigorous process that requires adherence to strict criteria across energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, and social and cultural sustainability. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands has successfully demonstrated its commitment to quality and excellence through a recent evaluation across a comprehensive set of compliance indicators.
Renato de Oliveira, General Manager at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, stated, “We are incredibly proud to receive both the Forbes VERIFIED Responsible Hospitality badge and the Green Globe Certification, reflecting our tireless commitment to sustainable hospitality and dedication to the protection of our natural world. This recognition is a testament to the efforts of our entire team, our Ladies and Gentlemen, in creating exceptional guest experiences with respect for the environment at our core. And of course we will continue to innovate to ensure our environmental footprint is light and fruitful for the planet and our community.”
A FOUNDATION OF RESPECT
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands was meticulously designed with respect for the area's fragile ecosystem. Prior to construction on an existing sandbank, marine experts conducted extensive studies to ensure minimal impact on coral reefs and marine spawning. Sustainable construction materials, such as PEFC-certified timber from responsibly managed forests in Europe, were used, allowing the resort to earn PEFC Project Certification. The developers also achieved EDGE certification, leading to the Maldives' first green loan.
NATURAL BEAUTY
Land: The resort landscape features thousands of adopted trees and carefully selected native plants to prevent forest degradation and the negative impacts of importation. Among these is a 100-foot-tall Banyan tree in the Mystique Garden, dedicated to the resort’s late architect Kerry Hill. Acres of white sand stretch toward the blue lagoon, serving as a sanctuary for crabs, birds, and sea turtles.
Sea: Encompassing 99% ocean, the Maldives is a vibrant underwater world. The resort island is encircled by a lively coral reef that shelters lobsters, fish, rays, and sea turtles. Preserving the reef and marine life remains a priority, with over 105 coral frames planted since the project's inception and 28 frames planted in 2024 alone. The resort's coral regeneration initiative has created abundant nursery frames and new habitats for ocean life.
Photo credits: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES
Energy: The resort harnesses solar and sustainable energy, contributing approximately 20% of its total electricity needs. In 2024, rooftop solar panel systems were installed on all guest villas, and the installation of a floating solar garden began, which is expected to add 1,400 kWp to the grid by 2025. Each villa is equipped with a smart energy-saving management system, while hot water pumps utilize ambient thermal energy.
Culinary Consciousness: The resort’s seven dining venues prioritize locally sourced ingredients, offering an extensive selection of plant-based options and 100% cage- and crate-free eggs and meat. Daily food waste, approximately 726 kg, is composted for the resort gardens. Additionally, our culinary and bar teams embrace a zero-waste approach, creating chutneys and coffee scrubs, along with various other initiatives to minimize waste.
Water: Still and sparkling water is purified at the resort’s dedicated plant using filters from Nordaq, eliminating the need for plastic bottles. Greywater is treated and reused for landscaping.
Plastic Use: The resort has committed to banning single-use plastics, implementing reusable water bottles, bamboo-based serving ware, and crystal amenity jars. Its garden and desalination plant also contribute to reducing plastic imports.
PARTNERSHIPS AND PROGRAMS
Drone Research: The resort has implemented an advanced ocean plastics monitoring program using drones, developed in partnership with Dr. Melissa Schiele. In 2024, the program has completed 50 drone flights, identifying critical plastic debris, including eleven ghost nets weighing approximately 418 kg. These ghost nets pose a significant threat to marine life, as they can ensnare and kill creatures. By removing them, the resort helps to prevent these tragic incidents and protect the ocean ecosystem.
Jean-Michel Cousteau Ambassadors of the Environment Program: This program continues to provide guest experiences focused on environmental preservation in collaboration with the renowned oceanographic explorer. This year, Cousteau visited the resort again to further educate students from Villa College and the Maldives National University, as well as the resort’s naturalists. His ongoing presence inspires both guests and Ladies and Gentlemen alike, reinforcing the importance of environmental stewardship.
Saad Amer as Sustainability Champion: This year, Saad Amer, recognized as a Climate Activist and a member of Forbes' 30 Under 30 for social impact, visited The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands to curate meaningful guest experiences. His session, titled "A Thought Experiment: How to Save Our Planet," engaged both guests and the local community, where he shared valuable insights on the impacts of climate change. During his visit, he connected with students from Maldives National University and Villa College to discuss future initiatives. Additionally, he led an interactive activity with the resort’s younger guests, inspiring them to become "Climate Kids" and fostering a sense of environmental stewardship from an early age.
Community Footprints: The resort engages with local schools through educational excursions, promoting ocean conservation awareness. In 2024, eight educational excursions took place, including visits to Dhiffushi, Thulusdhoo, Gaafaru and Huraa. A notable initiative this year was a recycling competition held with students from Dhiffushi, where the winning teams were awarded a visit to The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands for a special lunch with the resort’s naturalist. During this experience, they learned about coral restoration efforts.
The Ritz-Carlton Spa: Showcasing a commitment to sustainable living, The Ritz-Carlton Spa features an organic body and skincare collection by Bamford. In 2024, its dedicated Ladies and Gentlemen at the spa have innovatively transformed coffee grounds into sustainable body scrubs for in-house guests, highlighting its ongoing dedication to environmentally friendly practices and wellness initiatives.
As part of the resort’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands will soon launch a Coral Adoption Project, enabling guests to contribute to initiatives aligned with its Community Footprints philosophy. Additionally, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is excited to introduce a new package featuring Saad Amer, the Sustainability Champion of the resort. This package will include educational and inspiring activities designed to deepen guests' understanding of the local climate and promote support for the surrounding community, ensuring that their holiday experience is both enriching and impactful.
For more information, visit ritzcarlton.com/Maldives, and for real-time updates, follow the resort on Instagram and Facebook.
The MICHELIN Guide’s inaugural hotel recognition programme, MICHELIN Keys, has awarded Two Keys to Banyan Tree Krabi, a luxury resort on tranquil Tubkaek Beach on the Andaman coast of Southern Thailand.
Photo credits: Banyan Tree Krabi
The French-based MICHELIN Guide, famed for its accreditation of “stars” to the most exquisite restaurants, has for the first time introduced a ranking system of “keys” to acclaim the most outstanding hotels in the world.
The 2024 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection in Thailand included a total of eight Three-Key hotels (its highest decoration), 19 Two-Key hotels, and 31 One Key hotels. Each hotel had been anonymously visited and assessed by MICHELIN inspectors. Banyan Tree Krabi was among only four resorts or hotels in the Krabi region decorated with a key award.
According to the MICHELIN Guide, distinction is based on five criteria: excellence in architecture and design; quality of service; overall personality and character; value for money; and meaningful contributions to the local community.
In addition, the prestigious French-based guide also recommended the resort’s spa, Banyan Tree Spa Krabi, as one of the seven “most luxurious” spas in Thailand.
Banyan Tree Spa Krabi’s signature experience is The Rainforest, the region’s first luxury hydrotherapy facility, described by the MICHELIN Guide as a place “where tropical serenity meets holistic wellness”.
“Dive into a luxurious hydrothermal circuit featuring a Rain Walk, Steam Room, Sauna, Ice Fountain, Vitality Pool, Outdoor Cold and Hot Plunge Pools, Jet Pool, and Heated Bed,” the MICHELIN Guide said. “Let the Tropical Rainmist take you away as the soothing Rain Shower helps you relax before an invigorating body scrub boosts your skin’s moisture. Experience true tranquillity as a skilled therapist works their magic, kneading away all your tension.”
The spa has eight private treatment rooms, each with a selection of “Colour-Calm” choices. The theory behind colour-calm therapy is that the spectrum of light carries electromagnetic energy, and therefore affects energy or chakras.
This month, Banyan Tree Spa Krabi introduced a new treatment idea for guests — complimentary weightless therapy classes.
Weightless therapy is a holistic technique that involves floating in water, whereby the buoyancy helps alleviate pain and stress. Also known as flotation therapy, this sensory deprivation treatment is renowned for inducing a state of deep relaxation.
At Banyan Tree Spa Krabi, trained therapists guide and glide their clients gently upon the water in one-on-one sessions usually lasting half an hour.
Photo credits: Banyan Tree Krabi
“Weightless therapy is an alternative way to heal your body and mind,” said Banyan Tree Spa Krabi Manager Ms Montira Vichiankoo. “The meditative state obtained by floating in the water helps us relax as well as exercising muscles, joints and bones.”
The new weightless therapy experience is just one of several innovations at the award-winning spa, a self-styled “Sanctuary for the Senses” that offers massage and wellbeing treatments, including traditional Thai and oil massages such as the Restorative Detox massage, a deep tissue technique designed to stimulate the body’s circulatory system. Alternatively, the Sleep Essentials massage is a unique ritual that brings the mind and body to a deep state of rest.
Each therapist at the resort has undergone intensive training at the Banyan Spa & Wellbeing Academy, which introduces students to its very own “8-Pillar Philosophy.”
The 8-Pillar Philosophy — involving the concepts of Connection, Growth, Groundedness, Nourishment, Rest, Movement, Practice, and Mindfulness — is also evident in Banyan Tree’s “Wellbeing Sanctuary” programme which was launched in 2021.
Setting aside a selection of suites dedicated to holistic and wellness pursuits, the “Wellbeing Sanctuary” provides guests with an opportunity to combine a leisure vacation with a daily itinerary designed to enrich mind, body and soul — from meditation to Thai boxing, from massage and hydrotherapy to nature trails and sailing lessons — complemented with a nutritious diet and personal consultations.
Located on a tranquil beachfront, and tiered into a lush hillside facing westward towards the Andaman Sea and the sunset, Banyan Tree Krabi has 72 pool suites and villas, among them seven two-bedroom options, one three-bedroom villa, and a majestic seven-bedroom Presidential Beachfront Pool Villa.
Facilities include two restaurants and a beach bar, a beach club, a kids’ club, a fitness centre, meeting rooms, and the aforementioned rainforest-themed spa.
For more information or reservations, contact +66 075 811 888 or email krabi@banyantree.com
Sun Siyam Resorts is enhancing the all-inclusive experience in the Maldives with the launch of its 24-hour, resort-wide all-inclusive plan, available across all properties as of November 1st 2024.
Photo credits: Sun Siyam Resorts
The new 24-hour all-inclusive plan has been launched following the success and demand for Siyam World's premium 24 hour all-inclusive which has laid the foundation for its expansion across all resorts. Additionally, in resorts with multiple meal plans, booking data indicates that in 2024, 85% of British guests choose all-inclusive over BB, HB and FB options.
Aside from dining options in multiple restaurants and premium drinks, the popularity of Sun Siyam Resorts all-inclusive product is due to the extensive selection of activities – all included. From snorkeling safaris and dolphin cruises to sunset fishing and spa or watersports credit, each curated experience caters to every traveller, whether they seek relaxation, adventure, or both.
With this new 24-hour all-inclusive approach, Sun Siyam Resorts sets a new benchmark for flexible but attainable, worry-free travel, delivering incredible value and endless ways to enjoy the beauty and culture of the Maldives without add-ons and hidden costs.
Photo credits: Sun Siyam Resorts
Each resort brings its own unique touch to the all-inclusive experience: Iru Veli's premium all-inclusive Signature Plan covers activities like paddleboarding, windsurfing, and even offers jet ski or spa credits along with three excursions. At Siyam World, the WOW! premium all-inclusive plan offers unlimited access to Siyam Water World—the Maldives' largest floating water park, various excursions to choose from, and 24/7 dining and entertainment within 18 bars and restaurants. Iru Fushi's all-inclusive package and dine-around meal plan in more than 15 restaurants and bars, offers serene, day-to-night luxury, delivering drinks and bites on demand, while Vilu Reef and Olhuveli both feature all-inclusive dine-around packages with waterfront bars that welcome guests at all hours.
For more information visit www.sunsiyam.com
Marking the brand's Australian debut, the 2025 opening of Mondrian Gold Coast is set to ignite the region's lifestyle hospitality scene, leading a new direction in antipodean style across architecture, design, cuisine, wellness and cultural connection.
Photo credits: Mondrian Gold Coast
Since the opening of its first property, Mondrian LA, in 1996, Mondrian has continued to break the mould of lifestyle hospitality. Built by some of the world's most iconic dreamers and visionary designers, each Mondrian emerges as a creative hive where the fantastical meets the future and dream-like spaces immerse guests in the culture of the place it inhabits, both in aesthetics and spirit. These distinctive hallmarks of the brand have been the driving force behind its successful expansion, currently encompassing 11 properties based in some of the world's most exciting cultural destinations.
Mondrian's expansion in Australia marks an exciting milestone for the evolution of the brand, which is part of Ennismore, the fastest-growing lifestyle hospitality company. Located on one of Queensland's most iconic beaches and surrounded by outstanding natural beauty, Mondrian Gold Coast will capture Burleigh's eclectic rhythm, creative community and sun-bleached surf scene.
Photo credits: Mondrian Gold Coast
Set within a sculptural masterpiece designed by leading Australian architects Fraser & Partners, the hotel unfolds across 24 floors allowing for breathtaking views across the pine tree-framed beach and Pacific Ocean beyond as well as the verdant Hinterlands. The sleek design of the 208 studios, suites and homes, including spectacular two- and three-bedroom Beach Houses and the hotel-crowning Sky House, has been conceived by award-winning Studio Carter and is informed by the textural and tonal interplay of the sugar-white sands and pandanus-studded coastline.
Designed by acclaimed multi-disciplinary architecture practice Alexander &Co, the ground-floor restaurant spills out onto a sun-dappled terrace, blurring the lines between inside and out and capturing Burleigh's infectious energy and humming street scene. On the third floor, the oceanfront restaurant and pool club are a tangible celebration of the region's exquisite local produce and culinary creativity. A wellness space and spa specialising in future-forward treatments, as well as an extensive hybrid events space, completes the scene for the Gold Coast's most exciting new arrival.
“Australia has long been a strategic focus for Mondrian's growth, and the Gold Coast was a focal point thanks to its phenomenal natural setting, rich cultural landscape, and vibrant social scene. Over the last couple of years, we have seen a rising demand for lifestyle brands, where locals and international guests are looking for authentic, creative and immersive experiences – all the hallmarks of the Mondrian brand. It felt a natural choice to bring Mondrian to the Gold Coast and we believe it will resonate strongly with the local market and lend something entirely new to the hospitality space”, says Chadi Farhat, Brand COO Mondrian Hotels & Residences.
Celebrate Christmas in Style on Koh Samui
A gourmet’s paradise of 5-star feasting is on the cards at Banyan Tree Samui this Christmas, with each of its three restaurants offering a colourful variety of dining options from Dec 24-26, inclusive. The resort’s beachfront restaurant, Sands, offers a 3-course set lunch and a 5-course set dinner (or 7-course vegetarian alternative) on each of those three days, while award-winning fine-dining venue Saffron hosts set evening dinners in a sophisticated and tranquil ambience. Meanwhile, The Edge restaurant will entice diners with an abundant buffet menu from Dec 24-26, offering both Western and Eastern cuisine and a host of Christmas surprises.For more information or reservations, contact samui@banyantree.com or tel: +66 77 915 333.
Photo credits: Banyan Tree
Twas the Night Before Xmas, and Krabi is Stirring
Located on tranquil Tubkaek Beach, Banyan Tree Krabi is hosting a sumptuous Christmas Eve Gala Dinner at its popular restaurant The Naga Kitchen. Starting from 6:30pm, guests and diners will be paraded with an astounding variety of delectable international culinary choices, including salads and appetisers, cheese and cold cuts, an Indian Tandoori selection, freshly baked pizzas, a carving station, Japanese favourites, and delicious seafood options such as Spicy Tuna and Salmon Tartare with Local Fresh Herbs.For more information or reservations, contact krabi@banyantree.com or tel: +66 075 811 888.
Photo credits: Banyan Tree
Ring in 2025 with a Samui Beach Party
Located in a private bay at the southeastern corner of the island, Banyan Tree Samui invites guests and revellers to experience their “A Night Under the Sea Party Night” from 10pm till 1am on New Year’s Eve. The night will begin with a fabulous feast - a 5-course gala dinner set menu from 7pm to 10pm - with everything from appetisers such as sushi and sashimi, French foie gras, oysters, tiger prawns and Russian caviar to main courses of prime rib of beef, lamb crown or Tasmanian grilled salmon, and a host of delectable desserts. At 10pm, the party moves to the beachside where a dance floor will burst into life. For more information or reservations, contact samui@banyantree.com or tel: +66 77 915 333.
Photo credits: Banyan Tree
Kick Off 2025 with Countdown in Krabi
Banyan Tree Krabi bids farewell to 2024 with a Gala Dinner and Countdown Party with live entertainment, an extravagant buffet, and selected free-flow alcoholic beverages. Starting at 7pm on 31st Dec with a festive feast at The Naga Kitchen venue, diners can choose from an array of cheeses, cold cuts, a salad bar, homemade smoked salmon, truffle soup, iced seafood including fin de claire oysters, as well as a selection of Southern Thai and Japanese culinary delights. There’s also a supervised Kids’ Corner as the party moves to the beach when midnight approaches.For more information or reservations, contact krabi@banyantree.com or tel: +66 075 811 888.
