22 September 2007 - Sakhir, Bahrain - With the onset of the Holy Month of Ramadan, Banyan Tree Desert Spa & Resort - Al Areen has introduced special Ramadan Desert Delights as part of the culinary feasts that commence with each Iftar. During this holy month, the resort has lined up several themed culinary experiences.

For Iftar, Rimal, the resort's elegant all-day-dining restaurant, has taken on an Arabic theme for the entire month, with an extensive menu of both local and regional Middle Eastern dishes. Diners will be able to select from exquisitely prepared hot and cold dishes, live cooking stations including a traditional lamb ouzi and shwarma station, classic salads and an assortment of desserts including qamar aldeen. Rimal can comfortably accommodate 50 guests for Iftar.

For Ghabghas, Vertigo restaurant will offer diners a relaxing evening in the authentic atmosphere of the resort's Arabian style tower with unparalleled views of the Arabian Gulf.  The colourful lamps and lavish furnishings in the restaurant are aimed at creating a mystical atmosphere heightened by the rich aromas of the tantalizing shishas. Diners can avail to the 'a la carte' menu or choose from a mouth watering selection of three, four-course traditional Ramadan menus which include an extensive variety of local and regional dishes.

Moreover, for an alternative Ramadan experience, Banyan Tree Desert Spa & Resort - Al Areen's highly acclaimed and award-winning villas are available.  While relaxing in the tranquility of the desert under the stars the guests can enjoy Iftar and Ghabghas in the privacy of a luxurious individual villa. With a delectable mix of Middle Eastern artistry and contemporary design, each villa boasts of its own private open air swimming pool and jet-pool, an enclosed courtyard and spacious majlis. A Ramadan package in a Desert Pool Villa includes one night stay, Iftar in the Rimal restaurant, in-villa, Ghabgha for two with an extensive variety of local and regional dishes and shisha. A Ramadan package in a Royal Pool Villa includes one night stay, a private butler, Iftar in the Rimal restaurant and in-villa Ghabgha for four persons.

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Saleh Al Belushi, Chairman of Banyan Tree Desert Spa and Resort, Al Areen said: "During Ramadan, the entire Iftar and Ghabgha experience for our visitors will be substantially enhanced by the excellence of our culinary skills and the exquisite ambience we provide. The resort's culinary reputation and distinctive style further enhanced by the culinary reputation of our chefs has always been appreciated. With the introduction of our special Ramadan Desert Delight theme, we are confident that the cultural and culinary blend will reflect the traditional Ramadan dining experience and stand out."

Banyan Tree Al Areen opened its doors in April 2007 boasting the only-all-villa, private swimming and jet-pool resort in the Middle East, the world's most extensive and luxurious spa and hydrothermal garden, three international restaurants, a complete body wellness centre and the award-winning Banyan Tree Gallery.

The Royal Pool Villa of the Banyan Tree Desert Spa and Resort - Al Areen has recently been included in this year's prestigious list of 101 Most Exquisite Hotel Suites & Villas by the well established and widely read luxury travel and lifestyle magazine, Elite Traveler. 

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About Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts
Banyan Tree offers an intimate retreat experience featuring its own signature blend of romance and Asian sensuality. The philosophy behind the hotels, resorts, spas and galleries is based on providing a place for rejuvenation of the body, mind and soul - a Sanctuary for the Senses.

Banyan Tree resorts are found in Phuket, Thailand (1994), Maldives Vabbinfaru (1995), Bintan, Indonesia (1995), Bangkok, Thailand (2002), Seychelles (2002), Ringha, China (2005), Lijiang, China (2006), Bahrain (2007) and Maldives Madivaru (2007). Flagship Banyan Tree Phuket was the first to introduce a tropical garden spa concept.

About Angsana Resorts & Spas
Launched in 2000, Angsana is the sister brand of Banyan Tree, inspired by the exotic Angsana Tree noted for its crown of golden flowers. Angsana resorts are designed as contemporary, chic and vibrant retreats to live life spontaneously and sense the moment.

Angsana resorts are found in Bintan, Indonesia (2000), Great Barrier Reef, Australia (2000), Bangalore, India (2001), Maldives Ihuru (2001) and Maldives Velavaru (2006).

In 2003, Colours of Angsana joined the Angsana portfolio. This boutique hotel collection appeals to the soft adventurer and cultural tourism sector. The current hotels are Gyalthang Dzong (Shangri-La, China), Deer Park Hotel (Giritale, Sri Lanka) and Maison Souvannaphoum (Luang Prabang, Laos).

To date, the Banyan Tree Group manages and/or has ownership interests in 22 resorts and hotels, 58 spas and 70 retail galleries and two golf courses.

© Press Release 2007