Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts marks its debut in Asia's most dynamic tourism destination with the Grand Opening of an exclusive 5-star urban resort, located at the US$2 billion Galaxy Macau™.

Banyan Tree Macau, which officially opens its doors today, features four restaurants – including Belon, an "underwater" oyster bar and grill – and a host of other luxurious offerings for discerning travellers.

"Banyan Tree Macau, designed to be the city's first five-star urban resort, is proud to be a part of the world-class Galaxy Macau integrated destination resort," said Mr Ho Kwon Ping, Executive Chairman of Banyan Tree Holdings.

"With an all-suite concept featuring a Relaxation Pool in every suite, plus Pool Villas in expansive private gardens, we hope to welcome all our guests to this haven in the city where they can enjoy a myriad of activities whether for business or pleasure."

VIPs attending the luxury urban resort's Grand Opening include Mr Michael Mecca, President & Chief Operating Officer of Galaxy Entertainment Group, the parent company of Galaxy Macau; as well as Mr Heinz Roelz, Director of Hotels & Hospitality, Galaxy Entertainment Group.

Commenting on the Grand Opening of Banyan Tree Macau, Mr Mecca said, "Banyan Tree shares Galaxy Macau's vision for impeccable world-class service and quality with a distinctly Asian heart and soul – what we call ‘World Class, Asian Heart'. This is the philosophy that sets us apart. It also perfectly complements what we have created here: the first property of its kind in Macau with true resort features. The Banyan Tree Spa at Galaxy Macau is one of the largest in the world, and its location on the Grand Resort Deck, next to the world's largest skytop wave pool and real white-sand beach, really brings the Southeast Asia-style beach holiday to Macau for an utterly unique experience."

In the heart of Cotai city, just 15 minutes from Macau International Airport, Banyan Tree Macau is the internationally renowned luxury hospitality brand's first resort in the former Portuguese enclave. It is also the first in Macau to feature private indoor Relaxation Pools in all its 246 opulent suites.

Banyan Tree Macau's four dining outlets are headlined by the signature Belon, designed to evoke an underwater environment. The luxuriously immersive experience begins from the moment of arrival at the specialty restaurant, which is named after Brittany's famous delicacy. Guests descend a glass stairwell, passing a waterfall and custom kinetic artwork, down to a bar wrapped in aquatic forms of scallop tails, jellyfish, waves and spiraling shells.

The opening of the property now means visitors can also experience Saffron, Banyan Tree's signature restaurant. Saffron specialises in creative Thai cuisine in a contemporary yet classically elegant setting, and it is open daily during lunch and dinner. Inspired by the customs and cultures of Thailand, the food is prepared using traditional methods passed down through generations of Thai chefs. Saffron's simple and delicate cuisine emphasises indigenous herbs and spices, artistic presentation and skilled traditional techniques, making guests feel like they have been transported to the Land of Smiles. Guests will also enjoy the warm, graceful service that is a distinctive trademark of Banyan Tree's renowned hospitality. Other outlets at Banyan Tree Macau include Cabana for casual poolside dining, and the relaxed Banyan Lounge for social gatherings.
   
Another major attraction is Macau's first award-winning Banyan Tree Spa, a 3,400m² haven of indulgence offering sensory pampering and experiences steeped in holistic Asian healing traditions and set alongside two tropical pools. At Banyan Tree Macau's Sanctuary for the Senses, 10 Pool Villas ranging from 450m² to 950m² feature both private pools and eight air-conditioned cabanas around the outdoor heated pool.

The expansive, 950m² Sanctuary Pool Villas are ideal for family retreats or gatherings of friends, featuring two bedrooms, generous living area and a spa treatment room. The spacious 160m² Sky Villas feature indoor Relaxation Pools and living areas.

The 450m²Pool Villa epitomises the Banyan Tree experience of romance, intimacy, and rejuvenation. Take an invigorating swim in the private pool while the dedicated Resort Host lays out a nutritious and delectable breakfast in the verdant garden of the residence.

Suites range from the 100m² Grand Cotai Suite and 130m² Grand Macau Suite to the 130m² Spa Suite with its own treatment room, as well as a 670m² split-level Presidential Suite with two bedrooms, a dining room, designer kitchen and in-suite Relaxation Pool.

Banyan Tree Macau offers world-class facilities for corporate events and private functions, including a Grand Ballroom that can accommodate up to 1,200 guests for cocktail. Resort facilities also include a Banyan Tree Gallery showcasing indigenous art and crafts from community projects worldwide, plus a state-of-the-art fitness centre.

"Banyan Tree Macau is designed for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the excitement of Cotai's entertainment district, but who still desire their own private sanctuary in which to relax," said Rudy Oretti, General Manager of Banyan Tree Macau.