Banyan Group, formerly known as Banyan Tree Holdings, has reached a transformative milestone in its global journey with the announcement of its 100th property, the Mandai Rainforest Resort in Singapore, set to open in November 2025. This landmark moment reflects the Group’s steadfast commitment to sustainable luxury, meaningful guest experiences, and purpose-led hospitality.
The homecoming celebration will feature a “Week of Good” initiative—a charitable festival dedicated to community engagement, sustainability education, and cultural connection—underscoring Banyan Group’s philosophy that hospitality is about more than accommodation; it’s about connection, care, and conservation.
From Singapore to the World: A Purposeful Expansion Path
Under the leadership of President and CEO Eddy See, Banyan Group’s expansion strategy has been driven by a belief in experience-led travel, where luxury intersects with culture, wellness, and regenerative tourism.
“Hospitality shouldn’t just house people,” says See. “It should tell a story, uplift communities, and invite deeper connections to place.”
This vision has guided Banyan Group’s dynamic 2025 portfolio, spanning Asia, Africa, and Europe, and propelled the brand into new markets while reinforcing its legacy in long-standing destinations like the Maldives and China.
Africa Debut: Ubuyu, A Banyan Tree Escape in Tanzania
One of the Group’s most anticipated ventures is Ubuyu, a Banyan Tree Escape nestled in Ruaha National Park, Tanzania—marking the Group’s first African safari lodge, scheduled to open in late 2025. Ubuyu offers a regenerative travel experience, complete with Maasai-inspired architecture, eco-conscious design, and immersive wildlife encounters featuring elephants, lions, and endangered wild dogs.
The launch of Ubuyu highlights Banyan Group’s growing commitment to eco-luxury in emerging destinations, while integrating local culture, artisanal craftsmanship, and sustainable community development.
Maldives Milestone: 30 Years of Responsible Tourism
2025 also marks three decades of Banyan Group in the Maldives, commemorated at the iconic Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru. Celebrated for pioneering sustainable tourism in the region, the resort received accolades from the Government of Maldives for its long-term contributions to marine conservation and community upliftment.
From coral regeneration to low-impact architecture, Banyan Group continues to set the standard for sustainable island tourism in the Indian Ocean.
Expansion in Asia: Deepening Presence in China and Southeast Asia
In China, Banyan Group celebrates 20 years of operations, having grown from its first hotel in Shangri-La in 2005 to 33 properties across the mainland. Recent openings in Zhuhai, Hengqin, and Wenzhou have laid the groundwork for further expansion in Yunnan, Gejiu, and Panzhihua—highlighting the Group’s role in shaping the country’s leisure and wellness travel landscape.
In Southeast Asia, the Group continues to diversify its offerings:
- Garrya Mu Cang Chai in Vietnam, blending modern design with bamboo craftsmanship and mountain serenity.
- Homm Mandaue Cebu in the Philippines, expanding the Homm brand into urban markets with strong local ties and contemporary comforts.
European Debut: Banyan Tree Residences in Madrid
Making its foray into Europe’s luxury residential market, the Banyan Tree Padilla Madrid Residences introduces boutique urban living in the heart of Salamanca, one of Madrid’s most exclusive neighborhoods. Designed by Caramba Estudio, the project includes one- to four-bedroom residences with private amenities, wellness services, and curated cultural experiences—marking a new era for Banyan Group’s branded residences outside Asia.
In parallel, the Oceanus Beach Residences in Laguna Phuket, Thailand, reflect the Group’s continued growth in luxury real estate, with 16 beachfront homes offering access to Banyan Tree’s wellness network and international schools.
Driving Sustainability Through Hospitality
Banyan Group’s progress is rooted in more than expansion—it’s driven by a deep commitment to environmental and social responsibility. The Banyan Environmental and Community Fund, co-managed with the China Environmental Protection Foundation, supports projects in coral restoration, clean water access, and marine biodiversity protection.
Meanwhile, the Banyan Tree Gallery retail arm continues to promote ethical craftsmanship, with 30 global outlets and a new onboard partnership with China Airlines, offering sustainable lifestyle products and artisanal gifts.
Industry Recognition and Brand Excellence
In the first half of 2025 alone, Banyan Group has earned over 100 industry awards, including:
- #2 Best Hotel Brand – Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific
- Best House Reefs in the Maldives – Dhawa Ihuru
- Eight Forbes Travel Guide Star Awards
- “Thailand’s Most Awarded Developer” – Asia-Pacific Property Awards 2025–26
These recognitions highlight Banyan Group’s success in blending design, sustainability, and service at a global scale.
Looking Ahead: Sustainable Growth, Community-Centered Design
As the Group looks beyond its 100th hotel, the focus sharpens on authenticity, cultural nuance, and long-term sustainability. New developments will emphasize eco-conscious construction, extended-stay experiences, and community engagement—ensuring that every project adds meaningful value to both guests and local ecosystems.
Whether through safari escapes in Africa, urban wellness hubs in Asia, or heritage-rich residences in Europe, Banyan Group is redefining luxury travel as a force for good.
Final Word
The unveiling of Mandai Rainforest Resort in Singapore as the 100th Banyan property is more than a celebration—it’s a declaration of purpose. With every destination it touches, Banyan Group champions a form of hospitality that is enriching, responsible, and transformational.
As the global travel landscape evolves, Banyan Group continues to inspire with a model of growth that honors people, place, and planet—laying the foundation for the next hundred hotels, and beyond.
