Banyan Tree Hotel and Resorts, known for luxury accommodations in Asia, is set to open their newest property next Spring. The resort, located in the UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site of Lijiang, in southwest China, encompasses the company's themes of tranquility and lushness.
The property also utilizes the area's ancient Naxi heritage in many ways. The 55 Naxi-inspired villas have been constructed with local materials, such as pink stone and grey Naxi bricks. Traditional red clay roof tiles sourced from local kilns lend authenticity to the contemporary Naxi-styled curved roofs. Each of the villas measures at least 350 square metres and feature private, heated outdoor Jet Pools or plunge pools. The accommodations are decorated in neutral tones, dark lacquered woods and gold accents to promote an air of calm.
In addition, the property's 40 Deluxe Villas, 13 Pool Villas, one Two-Bedroom Pool Villa and one Presidential Villa, are oriented Northeast, for inspirational views of the towering snow-capped peaks of the 5,600 metre Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, said to resemble a jade dragon lying in the clouds.
Partially floating over a courtyard pond, the Bai Yun Chinese restaurant offers fine dining to guests of the resort. Other amenities include meeting facilities, a tennis court, library and games room.
And for those who just want to completely bliss out, the onsite Banyan Tree Spa Lijiang, offers treatments inspired by the unique and rare mountain tea grown in the area. The Spa will feature six heated spa treatment rooms and one Traditional Chinese Medicine Hall, in addition to the gym, yoga room and Banyan Tree Gallery offering unique cultural souvenirs of Lijiang.
Lijiang itself is situated among the legendary Silk Road and was once a major hub of commercial and cultural exchange. It also lies in the midst of natural beauty, surrounded by 13 eastern Himalyan peaks, including the Jade Dragon, and is home to one-fourth of China's plant species. A perfect location for a resort that encourages relaxation and pampering.
Rates start at US$500 for the Deluxe Villa, but from April 01 to June 30, 2006 the resort is holding a grand opening promotion that offers one complimentary night for every night booked at rack rates. This exclusive rate includes daily complimentary breakfast and is available for all corporate bookings and online reservations.
For more information on this resort, or other Banyan Tree properties, please visit www.banyantree.com.
