The 'Banyan Tree Connections' programme offers private two-person wellbeing journeys for families and friends, designed to nurture relationships and build shared rituals. Olivia Palamountain reports

Banyan Tree has announced the launch of a new wellbeing initiative focused on strengthening relationships through shared experiences in tranquil, natural settings.

The "Banyan Tree Connections" programme, which begins in May 2025, offers private wellbeing immersions for two people, incorporating movement, mindfulness and shared rituals designed to foster deeper connections between partners, friends or family members.

Available as a supplement to room reservations, the programme will initially launch at four properties: Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru in the Maldives, Banyan Tree Phuket in Thailand, Banyan Tree Mayakoba in Mexico and Banyan Tree Anji in China.

"In a world where time together is increasingly fragmented, genuine connection is becoming rare. Banyan Tree Connections was created in response to this universal longing—offering experiences that nurture relationships, inner wellbeing and shared renewal in some of the world's most awe-inspiring settings," says Paul Hawco, executive director, integrated wellbeing, Banyan Group.

"Banyan Tree has always been a Sanctuary for the Senses, where each moment is infused with intimacy and a deep connection to the local culture. This programme reflects our belief that wellbeing is not just individual, but flourishes in togetherness."

Each of the four locations offers distinctive experiences reflecting the natural and cultural essence of its setting. The programmes begin with personalised wellbeing consultations, followed by experiences guided by Banyan Group's eight "Pillars of Wellbeing".

At Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru in the Maldives, available from May 2025, guests can book two or three-night packages featuring yoga sessions for two, conscious grounding, breathwork and sound meditation and lagoon floating therapy. The experience includes a Maldivian cooking class, herbal oil and reflexology workshop, private sunset cruise, and concludes with a bonding destination dining experience.

The Phuket property's two-night programme, available from June 2025, combines sound healing meditation, private yoga sessions, a herbal oil workshop, and a "Time Together" spa treatment. Guests can also enjoy private lagoon kayaking and a sharing-style Japanese dinner.

Banyan Tree Mayakoba in Mexico introduces Mayan-inspired wellbeing experiences from July 2025, with two and three-night programmes featuring mangrove movement sessions, drum breathwork meditation, and traditional Temazcal purification rituals, concluding with a Mexican dinner.

In August 2025, Banyan Tree Anji in China will offer a two-night programme set amid bamboo forests and tea plantations, including private stretching sessions, sound healing meditation, and a white tea aroma bath bomb workshop inspired by local tea traditions.

The initiative marks the first phase of enhanced offerings from Banyan Tree Spa & Wellbeing, responding to what the company describes as a growing need for meaningful relationships in an increasingly fragmented world.

Banyan Tree, the flagship brand of Banyan Group, has operated for over 30 years and currently manages a global portfolio of 91 hotels and resorts, approximately 140 spas and galleries, and more than 20 branded residences across 20 countries.