Buyers Information Pack - English - banyan tree

BUYERS 

INFORMATION PACK

CONTENTS 

INTRODUCTION 

Seychelles I Mahé I Intendance Bay I Flora & Fauna 

THINGS TO DO 

Activities I Island Hopping from Mahé 

FACILITIES 

Amenities I Restaurants 

BANYAN TREE SPA SEYCHELLES 

Spa Treatments I Therapists I Spa Facilities 

Pavilion Names I Operating Hours I Contacts 

GALLERY 

Operating Hours I Contacts 

SITE LAYOUT PLAN 

FINISHING SCHEDULE 

PHASING PLAN 

ARTISTS IMPRESSIONS 

PARCEL & HOUSE SIZE 

LIST OF PROFESSIONALS 

CMAI Architects I SJ McMillan & Ah-Kong Land Surveyors I Gibb (Seychelles) 

AdMakers International I Banyan Tree Holdings Limited I Webber Wentzel 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS) 

Control & Ownership Structures I Sale, Occupation & Transfer I Residency & Visitors’ Visas 

Financial Issues I Rental Pool I Architectural & Building Guidelines 

SELLING PRICES 

CONTACT

NORTH 

SILHOUETTE 

VICTORIA 

MAMELLES 

ST ANNE 

MOYENNE 

CERF 

ANONYME 

MAHE 

CURIEUSE 

PRASLIN 

SEYCHELLES 

FELICITE 

LA DIGUE 

FREGATE 

INDIAN OCEAN 

MARIANNE

INTRODUCTION 

SEYCHELLES 

Like luminescent jewels they sparkle in the middle of the Indian Ocean: the archipelago 

of 115 idyllic islands that make up the Seychelles – truly one of the world’s most precious treasures. 

Here, away from the fast-paced commercial world, one can return to a simpler existence where 

days and nights are long and the tranquil silences even longer. 

The Seychelles is delicately dotted over an area of more than 455km2. 41 of these islands constitute 

the oldest mid-oceanic granite islands on earth. Clustered around the main island of Mahé, and 

neighbouring Praslin and La Digue, these are the “Inner Islands” and the cultural, economic and 

tourist hub of Seychelles. Divided into five groups (the Amirantes, the Southern Coral Group, 

Alphonse Group, Farquhar Group, and the Aldabra Group), the remaining 74 coral atolls and reef 

islets form what is known as the “Outer Islands”. 

With its mesmerising mix of a warm turquoise waters, powdered white sands, emerald green 

thickets of coconut palms and exotic forest, and the most astonishing variety of fauna and flora, 

this unspoilt scenic paradise has more natural and marine parks than anywhere else in the world – 

almost 50% of the country’s total landmass, in fact. 

The 81 000 Creole residents of these islands are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness, 

vibrant culture and mouth-watering cuisine. Just another reason why the Seychelles has become 

such a desirable destination for foreign tourists and investors.

AT A GLANCE 

GEOGRAPHY: 4-10 degrees south of the equator. Lies between 480km and 1 600km 

from East coast of Africa in the Western Indian Ocean. 

CAPITAL: Victoria on the main island of Mahé 

CLIMATE: Tropical. Always warm without extremes. Temperature rarely drops 

below 24°C or rises above 32°C. All but the most remote of the southern 

islands lie outside of the cyclone belt. January and February are the rainy 

months, while May to September bring drier, cooler weather. October 

to March sees generally calm waters and warm, humid conditions. 

CULTURE: Since the first French settlers arrived in 1770, Seychelles has been a 

POPULATION: 81 000 

magnet for people from all walks of life, from freed slaves to colonial 

settlers, political exiles, adventurers, Arab and Persian traders, Chinese 

and Indians. With such multi-ethic roots, Seychelles has evolved into a 

vibrant peaceful and tolerant society – a melting pot of different 

races, traditions and religions, all of which co-exist in harmony. 

LANGUAGE: There are three official languages in Seychelles: Creole, English and 

French – although many Seychellois also speak Italian and German. 

CURRENCY: Rupees are the official currency, however US Dollars and Euros are 

also accepted.

MAHÉ 

Measuring 155km2, Mahé is the largest of the Seychelles’ islands, and being home to the 

905 metre high peak, Morne Seychellois, it is also the highest. Some 90% of the country’s 81 000 

population live on the island, which is also the site of the vibrant capital city Victoria and the 

island’s International Airport. 

While the Northern and Eastern parts of Mahé are the most populated and developed, the pristine 

Southern and Western areas provide a proliferation of spectacular national parks, all waiting to be 

explored and enjoyed. These include: Baie Ternay Marine National Park and Port Luanay Marine 

National Park, as well as the offshore St Anne Marine National Park, Conception Island, Therese 

Island, Anonyme Island and Silhouette Island. 

Mahé’s expanses of virgin forest offer a sensory feast. Full of hidden secrets and surprises, here you 

will find the most rare bird and plant species, including the endangered and endemic Medusagyne 

Oppositifolia, otherwise known as the Jellyfish Tree, the carnivorous Pitcher Plant, and a vast 

array of Orchids.

INTENDANCE BEACH 

Situated on the South-western coastline of Mahé, Intendance Beach has been described 

as one of the ten most beautiful beaches in the world. And when one considers its talcum 

powder white sands, brilliant turquoise waters, imposing granite boulders, swaying pockets 

of palm trees, and backdrop of verdant tropical forest – it is easy to see why. Intendance 

Beach is just 30 minutes for Mahé International Airport and 50 minutes from the capital 

of Seychelles, Victoria.

FAUNA & FLORA 

You will find some of the richest and rarest fauna and flora on the planet in Seychelles. Committed 

to conservation and avid protectors of the environment, the Seychellois are justifiably proud that 

their country houses two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Aldabra, the world’s largest raised coral 

atoll, and Praslin Island’s Vallée de Mai – once believed to be the original site of the Garden of 

Eden itself. The islands also boast six national marine parks. 

FLORA 

The tropical climate and rich soils of the Seychelles’ islands provide a verdant environment for all 

manner of plant life, including the famous Coco-de-Mer, a very rare type of coconut found only 

on the islands of Praslin and Curieuse. Known as the ‘love nut’ due to its rather suggestive shape, 

this is also the world’s largest seed. 

• Seychelles boasts over 700 species of plants, 81 of which are endemic 

• Important species include: Casuarinas, Albizzies, Mangroves, Takamakas, Baobabs, Citrus Plants, 

Pitcher Plant, and the very rare Bois Meduse. 

• Certain species were introduced in the 1700s, including: Vanilla, Black Pepper, Cardamon, 

Bouganvillea and Nutmeg. 

• Fruits that proliferate here include Mangoes, Paypayas, Pineapple, Jamalac, Guava, Bananas 

and Bread Fruit. 

FAUNA 

The world’s smallest frog and heaviest land tortoise are both found in the Seychelles, as well 

as some of the largest seabird colonies on the planet. The marine life around the islands is 

quite astounding, particularly on the more remote coral islands. Over 900 species of fish have 

been recorded in these parts, and thanks to bans on spear guns and dynamite for fishing in the 

1960s, these sea creatures are confident around snorklers and divers, which makes for magical 

underwater experiences. 

• The Giant Tortoises from Aldabra now populate many of the islands of the Seychelles. 

• Some of the largest seabird colonies in the world 

• Islands such as Bird, Aride, Cousine, Aldabra and Cosmoledo host many species of seabirds 

including the Sooty Tern, Fairy Tern, White-tailed tropic bird, Noddies and Frigatebirds. 

• Marine turtle colonies can be found on Cousine and Aldabra islands

THINGS TO DO 

ACTIVITIES 

Whether you’re in search of rest and rejuvenation or raw adventure, the Ocean Estate will 

offer endless possibilities for both, with a whole world of natural wonder existing just beyond 

your door. 

Set sail around the islands and discover giant tortoises and green sea turtles. Dive into crystal clear 

waters and witness whale sharks, dolphins, coral reefs and over 900 species of fish. Take a trail 

through Virgin forest and be amazed by rare birds and scenic beauty. Head for an uninhabited 

island by helicopter or if you prefer to slow the pace right down, a day of pampering awaits at 

the luxurious Banyan Tree Spa, followed by a romantic moonlit meal served by your own private 

butler on the beach. 

Deep sea cruises 

Sailing 

Sea safaris 

Game-fishing and fly-fishing 

Diving and snorkeling 

Helicopter rides 

Nature walks and hikes 

Swimming 

Facilities of Banyan Tree Resort & Spa

ISLAND HOPPING FROM MAHÉ 

With 115 islands to choose from – each one unique in terms of character and natural splendor – 

island hopping will become a favourite pastime. How else can you hope to experience the vast 

variety of scenic and cultural delights on offer here? 

As the archipelago’s main island, Mahé is perfectly positioned to explore the surrounding islands 

of La Digue, Praslin, Curieuse and others, as well as the world heritage sites of Valleé de Mai and 

Aldebra – be it by sea or air. Ferry services, chartered flights and helicopter transfers are available 

daily, meaning a complete change of scenery is never far away. 

Aldabra Atoll (2.5 hours by air) 

Anonyme (10 mins by sea) 

Bird Island (40 mins by air) 

Cerf (7 mins by air or 15 mins by sea) 

Cousine (20 mins by air) 

Denis Island (35 mins by air) 

Desroches (35 mins by air) 

Fregate (20 mins by air) 

La Digue (20 mins by air) 

Moyenne (20 mins by sea) 

North Island (20 mins by air) 

Praslin (1 hour by sea or 15 mins by air) 

Silhouette (15 mins by air or 50 mins by sea) 

St. Anne (7 mins by air or 15 mins by sea)

FACILITIES 

With the magnificent Banyan Tree Hotel & Spa situated right next door to the estate, exclusive 

dining, entertainment and pampering are just a few steps from your villa. The resort’s range of fine 

restaurants are a treat for the well-traveled gastronome, while its ocean-fronted lounges are the 

perfect place to languish in a burnished sunset, glass of champagne in hand. 

And then of course, there is Banyan Tree Spa – a place of physical, mental and spiritual renewal, 

this is truly a sanctuary for the senses. Here all cares and concerns evaporate in the exotic scent 

of essential oils, natural herbs and spices, while tensions are eased away by the skillful hands of 

internationally trained holistic therapists. 

AMENITIES 

• Expansive infinity swimming pool 

• Award-winning Banyan Tree Spa – exclusive spa treatments and holistic therapies 

• Banyan Tree gallery retail boutique 

• Tennis court 

• Beauty Salon 

• Fully equipped gymnasium 

RESTAURANTS 

Four exclusive and exciting destination dining experiences: 

• Saffron for contemporary Thai and Southeast Asian cuisine 

• Au Jardin D’Epices for mouth-watering Mediterranean cuisine 

• Chez Lamar for delicious local Creole flavours 

• La Varangue’s veranda for tasty tapas

BANYAN TREE SPA SEYCHELLES 

SPA TREATMENTS 

Spa Packages 

Body Massages 

Facials 

Hand & Foot Treatments 

Hair Treatments 

Bridal Treatments 

THERAPISTS 

The Spa boasts 14 highly skilled and qualified therapists from Thailand, each of whom has received 

extensive training from the Banyan Tree Phuket and Bangkok Academy. 

SPA FACILITIES 

• Six standard pavilions with outdoor shower, steam room & toilet facilities 

• Two deluxe pavilions with Jacuzzi, outdoor shower & toilet 

(one of the deluxe pavilions doubles as a wet treatment room). 

• All pavilions have a common relaxation area 

• Two beauty salons, offering hair treatment and hand & foot treatments

PAVILIONS NAMES 

Rooms / Names No. of Beds Remarks 

Pavilion 1 – Aloe 2 Standard Pavilions 

Pavilion 2 – Basil 2 Standard Pavilions 

Pavilion 3 – Bergamot 2 Standard Pavilions 

Pavilion 4 – Galangal 2 Standard Pavilions 

Pavilion 5 – Ginger 2 Standard Pavilions 

Pavilion 6 – Lemongrass 2 Standard Pavilions 

Pavilion 7 – Peppermint 2 Deluxe Pavilions + Jacuzzi 

Pavilion 8 - Turmeric 2 

OPERATING HOURS 

09.00am to 10.00pm daily 

(Note: In villa spa service is available from 9am to 8pm daily) 

CONTACT 

Tel: +248 383 500 I Spa Reception – Ext: 7401 or 7402 I Spa Office Direct – Ext 3516 

Facsimile: +248 383 600 I Email: spa-seychelles@banyantree.com 

BANYAN TREE GALLERY 

OPERATING HOURS 

09.00am to 9.00pm daily 

CONTACT 

Deluxe Pavilions + 2 Wet treatment 

beds + Jacuzzi 

Tel: +248 383 500 I Gallery Shop – Ext: 7288 

Facsimile: +248 383 600 I Email: gallery-seychelles@banyantree.com

SITE LAYOUT PLAN

Phase 1A 

Phase 1B 

Phase 2 

Phase 3 

Phase 4 

Phase 5

A FOUNDATIONS 

A1 RC Concrete Strip 

Foundations 

FINISHING SCHEDULE 

PROJECT: BANYAN TREE OCEAN ESTATE - SEYCHELLES 

GENERAL ARCHITECTURAL SPECIFICATION - FINAL DRAFT 

INTERNAL & EXTERNAL FINISHES SCHEDULE SHEET 

ITEM MATERIAL DESCRIPTION COLOUR CODE 

Reinforced concrete foundations to suit 

soil conditions or founded onto rocks as 

per engineers specifications. 

A2 RC Concrete Column Bases Reinforced concrete foundations to suit 

soil conditions or founded onto rocks as 

per engineers specifications. 

A3 Decking Posts & Steel 

Columns 

B COLUMNS 

Founding of timber decking posts and steel 

columns to engineers specifications. 

B1 RC Concrete Column 200x200mm Reinforced concrete column 

as per engineers specifications. 

B2 Steel Column Steel column to engineers specifications. 

B3 Timber Post Timber post to engineers specifications. 

C INTERNAL FLOORS 

C1 RC Concrete Slab Reinforced concrete slab as per engineer’s 

specifications. 

C2 Cement Screed Min 30mm cement screed in max 9 meter 

square panels. Edge of panel to be finished 

with small v-joints. Screed to be powerfloated 

to smooth finished and to be well 

cured. All to engineers specifications. 

C3 Porcelain Floor Tiles 600x600mm MERANO “Galaxy Nano” 

1st Grade Polished Porcelain Tiles on 

screed with 1mm joints with light grey 

grouting or as specified. Design as per 

detail layout. 

C4 14mm Strand woven Bamboo 

T&G Flooring 

122 x 14mm Strand woven “Click-Lock” 

bamboo flooring to be laid on flat cement 

screed as a floating floor with an 

ELASTILON rubber underlay and 

self-adhesive layer as per manufacturer’s 

detailing & specification. Bamboo to be 

carbonized or caramel brown. Colour 

sample to be approved by Architect. 

C5 BELGOTEX Carpet LADY BLUSH from ROYAL TWIST* 

range, or similar approved, fitted carpet 

on “Orange-Air Tread” underlay, to 

Interior Designer’s specification. 

Natural Concrete 





MERANO 

“Galaxy Nano” 

Carbonized or 

caramel brown 

with a Satin Matt 

finish 

Refer to samples 

& colour swatches 

from the ROYAL 

TWIST Range


C6 Clear Glass Clear laminated safety glass panels - 

thickness, fixing and sealing strictly to 

manufacturer’s specifications. 

C7 15mm Strand woven 

Bamboo Tread 

15mm Strand Woven Bamboo Tread with 

Bull nose edging to be laid on flat cement 

screed on ELASTILON rubber underlay 

and self-adhesive layer as per manufacturer’s 

detailing & specification. On steel/concrete 

structure as per engineers specification. 

Bamboo to be carbonized or caramel 

brown. Colour sample to be approved 

by Architect. 

Clear 

C8 Marble Slab Marble Slab as per Supplier's specification. White 

D EXTERNAL FLOORS & DECKING 

D1 RC Concrete Slab & Precast 

Concrete pads 

Reinforced concrete slab as per engineer’s 

specifications. Where exposed, concrete 

to have brushed or patterned finished as 

per architect’s detail design. 

D2 Cement Screed Min 30mm cement screed with non-slip 

finish detail in max 9 meter square panels. 

Edge of panel to be finished with small 

Edge of panel to be finished with small 

v-joints. All to engineers specifications. 

Inlay pattern finish as per architect’s 

detail design. 

D3 Natural Quartzite Stone Tiles 300x300mm Honed Silver-Grey Quartzite 

Tiles on screed with 6mm joints or as 

specified. Design as per detailed layout. 

Tiles to be laid in accordance with 

supplier’s specification. 

D4 22mm Composite Timber 

Decking [ENVIRODECK] 

D5 22mm Composite Timber Tread 

[ENVIRODECK] 

125 x 22mm Composite timber slats with 

a max width variance of 5mm, on decking 

substructure to Engineer’s details. Slat to 

be in lengths of min 2.4m and fixed to 

substructure as per specialists details. 

Ends to be trimmed to ensure that joints 

are uniformly staggered over full width of 

deck. Gaps to be nominally 6mm. Gage 

between slats to be 100mm. Great care 

must be taken with setting out of the 

slats on the deck. Space underdeck to be 

compacted, be free of weeds, covered with 

bidum and a layer of gravel in a colour to 

architect’s specification. 

To external timber stairs with 5mm Bull 

nose edge. Installed as per manufacturer’s 


D6 Gravel Cover Gravel laid on geofabric layer on 

well compacted soil treated with weed 

inhibiting membrane. 

Carbonized or 

caramel brown 


finish 



Silver-Grey 

Mocca 

Mocca 

As per 

specification


E INTERNAL WALLS 

E1 Internal Plaster 1 Coat smooth plaster of min. 

15mm thickness. Painted or finished as per 

specification. 

E2 Smooth Skim Coat Finish 1 Coat internal plaster finished with a final 

coat quality skim coat to supplier’s 

specifications. Painted or finished as per 


E3 Tiled to ceiling Tiled to underside of ceiling. All tiling to be 

edged and finished with aluminium edging. 

All to Architect’s specification. 

E4 Tiled to 1200mm Tiled to 1200mm above F.F.L. Remainder of 

wall to be plastered and painted or finished 

as per paint specification. All tiling to be 

edged and finished with aluminium edging. 

All to Architect’s specification. 

E5 Strand-Woven Bamboo Veneer Strand Woven Bamboo veneer cladding on 

timber frame. Installed and insulated as per 

manufacturer’s specification and architect’s 

detail. 

E6 Dry Walling Dry walling to be skimmed and painted as 

per architect and manufacturer’s instructions. 

In wet areas or where appropriate, walling to 

be insulated with ISOTHERM with 15mm 

RHINOBOARD on either side as per 

Architect’s detailing. 

E7 Tiled Splashback to detail 1 coat plaster with tiled splashbacks. 

All tiling to be edged and finished with 

aluminium edging. Remainder of wall to be 

painted or finished as per specification. 

E8 Colourback Glass Installed as per supplier’s detail and 


As per 

specification 

As per 

specification 

MERANO 


MERANO 


Carbonized or 

caramel brown 

finish with a Satin 

Matt 

As per 

specification 

E9 Marble Slab Marble Slab as per Supplier’s specification. White 

E10 Stonework Natural dry-packed stone cladding (as per 

existing development) to concrete walls as 

per Architect’s detailing. 

E11 EKOBE Coconut Tile Coconut tiles to be laid in accordance with 

supplier’s specification and as per Architect’s 

detail. 

E EXTERNAL WALLS 

E12 External Wood or Steel Float 

Plaster Finish 

1 Coat external quality smooth plaster. 

Painted or finished as per specification. 

E13 400mm Horizontal Cladding 15 x 400mm butt jointed T&G NUTEC 

EVERTITE cement building planks, 

installed horizontally with black 

double-sided EPDM rubber gasket strips 

to edge detailing as per manufacturer’s 

specification. To be plaster skimmed & 

painted as per specification. 

MERANO 


Translucent white 

Natural stone 

Natural 

As per 

specification 

As per 

specification


E14 Composite Timber Horizontal 

Cladding 

E15 Natural Quartzite Stone 

Mosaic Tiles 

Composite timber cladding on timber 

frame. Installed and insulated as per 

Architect’s detail. 

Honed Silver-Grey Quartzile Tiles laid 

in accordance with manufacturer’s 


E16 Stonework Natural dry-packed stone cladding 

(as per existing development) to concrete 

walls as per Architect’s detailing. 

E17 Composite Timber Louvre Slat Composite timber louvre slats to be 

mounted on a galvanized and painted steel 

frame by specialist manufacturer. Frame to 

be painted and finished as per specification. 

F ROOF 

F1 Roof sheeting High Quality sheet metal roofing with 

standing seam profile, laid and fixed in 

accordance with manufacturer’s 

specifications on timber purlins. 

Painted or finished to specification. 

F2 Clear Polycarbonate Sheeting 1.25mm MODEK Industrial 7 profile 

sheeting installed as per manufacturer’s 


F3 Roof Trusses Roof trusses designed and installed by 

specialist subcontractor. Truss design & 

spacing to be approved by Architect/ 

Engineer. 

F4 Exposed Bolted Trusses/Rafters Exposed trusses/rafters to be designed and 

installed by specialist subcontractor as per 

Architect’s details. Shop drawings to be 

submitted to Architect for approval. Truss 

design & spacing to be approved by 

Architect/Engineer. 

F5 Insulation Roof to be insulated with 

ALUCUSHION & ISOTHERM 

for metal roofs as applicable, installed as 

per manufacturer’s specification. Double 

insulation to be confirmed with architect. 

F6 RC Roof Slab RC Roof slab to engineer’s details. Exposed 

roof slabs to receive a BITUTHENE 

waterproofing to supplier’s specification on 

screed to fall as indicated. Waterproofing 

to receive protection coat of pebbles or 

equal approved. Fullbore and concealed 

rainwater downpipes to be installed as per 

manufacturer’s specification. 

F7 Glass Roof Glass roof to be supplied and installed 

strictly in accordance with manufacturer’s 

specfication. Glass to be UV resistant. 

F8 Composite Timber Louvre Composite timber louvre slats to be 

mounted on a galvanized and painted steel 

frame by specialist manufacturer. Frame to 

be painted and finished as per specification. 

Silver-Grey 

Natural stone 

Mocca 

Graphite-Grey or 

Charcoal 

Clear 

As per 

specification 

As per 

specification 

Mocca


G CEILINGS 

G1 Gypsum RHINOBOARD 

Ceiling 

G2 Suspended Gypsum 

RHINOBOARD Ceiling 

G3 Skimmed and Painted Soffit to 

concrete slab 

9.4mm skimmed gypsum RHINOBOARD 

cement ceiling fixed to 38 x 38mm battens 

at 400 CCS on SAP substructure. Painted 

and finished as per specification. Ceiling to 

be installed as per manufacturer’s specifications 

and details. 

9.4mm skimmed gypsum RHINOBOARD 

cement ceiling fixed to 38 x 38mm battens 

at 400 CCS on SAP substructure. Painted 

and finished as per specification. Ceiling to 

be installed as per manufacturer’s specifications 

and details. 

Underside of RC slab to be plastered, 

skimmed and painted as per specification. 

G4 Exposed Floor Joists Painted and/or finished as per specification. 

G5 Exposed Rafters Painted and/or finished as per specification. 

G6 6mm Fibre Cement T&G 6mm Fibre cement T&G in 1,2x3,6m sheets 

with 7mm grooves at 98mm CCS. Sheets 

on 50x30mm brandering at 300mm CCS. 

Painted and finished as per specification. 

G7 Hardwood Timber Slats Hardwood timber slats, size & spacing 

as per Architect’s detailing, on 20x40mm 

brandering strip frame. Fixed, painted 

and finished as per specification. 

H CORNICE 

H1 20x40mm Timber Cornice 20x40mm double-rebated hardwood timber 

cornice strip. Finished to specification. 

H2 Recessed Joint 6mm Recessed joint in plaster. As per 

Architect’s detail and finished as per 


H3 35x50mm Galvanized m/s “Z” 

Profile Shadowline Cornice 

(SM25 - DonnCeil Range from 

GYPROC) 

I SKIRTING 

White Powder Coated Galvanized m/s “Z” 

Profile Shadowline cornice. Installed as per 


I1 Tile skirting Tile skirting to match floor tile and as per 

Architect’s instruction. 

I2 15x96mm Strand woven 

Bamboo Skirting 

I3 Natural Quartzite Stone 

Tile skirting Natural 

I4 35x50mm Galvanized m/s 

“Z” Profile Shadowline 

15x92mm Strand Woven Bamboo Cornice 

strip, fixed as per supplier’s specification. 

Finished to specification. 

Quartzite stone tile skirting as per 

Architect’s detailing. 

White Powder Coated Galvanized m/s 

“Z” Profile Shadowline skirting. Installed 

as per manufacturer’s specification. 

As per 

specification 

As per 

specification 

As per 

specification 

As per 

specification 

As per 

specification 

As per 

specification 

As per 

specification 

MERANO 


Carbonized or 

caramel brown 


finish 

Silver-Grey 

As per 

specification


J FASCIAS & BARGEBOARDS 

J1 32mm Timber Fascia 

Bargeboard 

32mm Timber barge boards (150-230mm 

wide as required) painted and finished as 

per specification. 

J2 Aluminium Fascia Bargeboard Aluminium Fascia to manufacturer’s detail 

to match roof sheeting, as per Architect’s 


K RAINWATER GOODS 

K1 Gutters Aluminium gutters as per roofing details. 

Profile to be confirmed by Architect. 

Painted and finished as per specification 

to match roof colour. 

K2 Downpipes 75mm diameter Aluminium downpipes 

fixed to façade with Universal-Downpipe 

bracket for hidden fixing. 

K3 50mm Concealed UPV 

Downpipe 

L BALUSTRADE / HANDRAIL 

50mm diameter downpipes concealed as 

per Architect’s detail and fixed to façade 

with Universal-Downpipe bracket for 

hidden fixing. 

L1 Timber Handrail Profiled Timber Handrail to Architect’s 

details. Sealed, stained or painted as per 

specification. Architect to confirm. 

L2 Stainless Steel Handrail Stainless Steel Handrail to Architect’s 

details. 

L3 Stainless Steel Cabling 4mm diameter grade 304 (if possible 306) 

ss cable fixed and tensioned to steel posts 

through pre-drilled holes. Allow for plastic 

or rubber plugs at connections. 

L4 Frameless Glass Balustrade 12mm ARMOURPLATE toughened safety 

glass from “SMARTGLASS”, or equal 

approved, with flatground polished edges. 

Fixed through predrilled holes as per 

manufacturer’s specifications. All to confirm 

to National Building Regulations. 

L5 Steel Baluster Post 50x50mm galvanized and painted hollow 

steel section, with composite timber slats 

on either side as per Architect’s detail. 

Finished as per specification. 

M CILLS 

M1 Plaster Cill Plaster cill to detail. Painted and finished 

as per specification. Architect to confirm. 

M2 Hardwood Timber Cill Profiled Hardwood Timber Cill to 

Architect’s detail/instruction. Stained or 

painted as per specification. 

M3 Tiled Cill Tiled cill to match floor tile as per 

Architect’s detail. 

As per 

specification 

To match 

roof colour 

To match 

roof colour 

To match 

roof colour 

As per 

specification 

As per 

specification 

As per 

specification 

As per 

specification 

As per 

specification 

MERANO 

“Galaxy Nano”


M CILLS 

M4 Natural Quartzite Stone Tile Cill Natural Quartzite stone tile cill 

installed as per supplier’s specification. 

M5 Composite Stone Cill Composite stone cill to match kitchen 

work tops. 

N WINDOWS 

N1 Aluminium windows Aluminium windows with or without 

subframes by specialist aluminium 

manufactuer. All sections to be high 

polyester powder coated and all joints to be 

mechanically jointed and adequately sealed 

with an approved sealant. Window Frame 

to be screw fixed to perimeter and pointed 

all round with approved silicone sealant. 

Refer to Window Schedule. All glazing to 

be Low-E safety glass with non-reflective 

coating (clear) as per National Building 

Regulations. 

N2 Acid-Etched Glass Acid-etched glazing to be applied to 

specified windows as per window schedule. 

O DOORS 

O1 Aluminium doors Aluminium doors with or without subframes 

by specialist aluminium manufactuer. 

All sections to be high polyester powder 

coated and all joints to be mechanically 

jointed and adequately sealed with an 

approved sealant. Door frame to be screw 

fixed to perimeter and pointed all round 

with approved silicone sealant. Refer to 

Door Schedule. All glazing to be Low-E 

safety glass with non-reflective coating 

(clear) as per National Building Regulations. 

O2 Acid-Etched Glass Acid-etched glazing to be applied to 

specified doors as per window schedule. 

P CABINETRY & FIXTURES 

P1 Kitchen Cabinetry & Fixtures High Quality European kitchen units 

with composite stone tops, white duco 

cupboards and gloss lacquered fronts with 

stainless steel handles, or as per Designer/ 

Supplier specification. Acid-etched glass 

front where applicable. All opening sections 

to have soft closing hinges or rollers. 

Q IRONMONGERY 

Q1 Ironmongery All locks, door hardware and furniture 

be brushed stainless steel or as per 


Silver-Grey 

To match 

kitchen finish 

Charcoal 

Frosted white 

Charcoal 

Frosted white


R SHUTTERS & BLINDS 

R1 Hardwood Timber shutters Hardwood timber slats to be mounted on 

a galvanized and painted steel frame by 

specialist manufacturer as per approved 

Shutter Schedule. Frame to be painted on 

site as per paint specification. 

R2 Composite Timber Louvre Composite timber louvre slats to be 

mounted on a galvanized and painted 

steel frame by specialist manufacturer. 

Frame to be painted and finished as per 


R3 Curtains & Drop-Down Blinds Curtains and drop-down blinds as per 

interior package. All details as per Interior 

Designer. 

R4 CENTOR S1/ES2 

Retractable Insect Screen 

S LIGHTING FIXTURES 

CENTOR S1/ES2 Aluminium frame 

with PVCcoated polyester screen mesh 

supplied and installed strictly according to 


S1 Lighting & Fittings Light fittings & fixtures to have LED/CFL 

globes as applicable as per Architect’s 


T SANITARYWARE 

T1 Sanitary Ware All Sanitaryware by DURAVIT, 

or similar approved. 

T2 Taps & Mixers All taps & mixers by HANSGROHE, 

or similar approved. Shower Clear 

toughened and frameless safety glass. 

MIN 2m high or as per Architect’s 

detailing, with shower tray set into slab 

or similar to spec. 

T3 Shower Clear toughened and frameless safety 

glass. MIN 2m high or as per Architect’s 

detailing, with shower tray set into slab or 

similar to spec. 

U APPLIANCES 

Natural 

Mocca 

U1 MíELE Washing Machine Míele W3035 Washing Machine. Clean Touch 

Steel 

U2 MíELE Tumble Dryer Míele W3035 Tumble Dryer Clean Touch Steel. Clean Touch 

Steel 

U3 MíELE Dishwasher Míele G2472 SCSF Optima II Series. Clean Touch 

Steel 

U4 MíELE Refrigerator Míele K1801 SF Refrigerator. Clean Touch 

Steel 

U5 MíELE Freezer Míele F 1811 SF Freezer. Clean Touch 

Steel 

U6 Merging Kit Míele Fridge+Freezer merging kit 

(38996010USA) or equal approved.


U APPLIANCES 

U7 MíELE Microwave Oven Míele M 8260-1 Microwave Oven. Clean Touch 

Steel 

U8 MíELE Single Oven Míele H 4682 B Oven. Clean Touch 

Steel 

U9 MíELE Steam Oven Míele DG 4082 Steam Oven. Clean Touch 

Steel 

U10 MíELE Warming Drawer Míele ESW 4082-14 Warming Drawer. Clean Touch 

Steel 

U11 MíELE Gas Hob Míele KM 391 G Gas Cooktop. Black 

U12 MíELE Wall Hood Extractor Míele DA 5990 W Wall Hood. Clean Touch 

U13 DAIKIN Air Conditioning 

System 

V POOL & JACUZZI 

V1 Pool with Vanishing Horizon 

(RIMFLOW or equal approved) 

V2 DIAMOND SEAL 

Toughened Glass Vanishing 

Horizon Strip 

V3 Wind Meter with automatic 

pump offswitch 

V4 TEUCOHYDROSPA 

Seaside 640 

W ROADS & DRIVEWAY 

Air conditioning as per specification with 

individually controlled units. Supplied 

and installed strictly to manufacturer’s 


Salt water chlorinated tiled pool with glass 

vanishing horizon to be designed and 

installed by specialist subcontractor as 

per Architect’s specifications. Internal walls 

to be honed Silver-Grey Quartzite stone 

mosaic Tiles laid in accordance with 

supplier’s specifications. External walls to 

be clad in Natural Stone. Stonework to be 

approved by Architect. 

DIAMOND SEAL Toughened Glass, 

or clear perspex strip, to Vanishing Horizon 

as per specialist detail and specification. 

Supplied and installed to manufacter’s 


TEUCOHYDROSPA Seaside 640 

Jacuzzi supplied and installed as per 

manufacturer’s specifications. 

W1 Concrete Pavers Concrete paver’s to be supplied and 

installed by approved manufacturer as 

per architect’s detailing. Colour to be 

confirmed. 

W2 Flagstone Pavers Cement flagstone pavers laid on well 

compacted soil by specialist subcontractor. 

Colour to be confirmed. 

W3 Concrete Concrete to be cast in sections as per 

engineer’s specifications. Concrete to be 

well cured. Edge of panel to be finished 

with small vjoints and double row of 

concrete pavers as per Architect’s detailing. 

All to engineers specifications. 

Silver-Grey 

Clear 

Natural Concrete


X UTILITIES 

X1 Telephone & Internet Telephone & internet connection to be 

provided in all villas. 

X2 Satellite Television Satellite Television to be provided in all 

villas. 

X3 Security Alarm System Security and alarm system with motion 

detectors to be provided in all villas. 

** Suppliers, material and detail information subject to change. All specifications and finishes to be confirmed by Architect. (awaiting legal input) 

*** It is acknowledged that all the materials, products, fixtures and fittings listed herein are subject to availability and may (if required and so certified by 

the Architect) be replaced with a substantially similar item. No person shall have any claim against the developer or any of its contractors as a result of such 

replacements and the purchaser hereby indemnifies the developer and its contractor in this regard.

REF ROOM 

R1 FOYER & PASSAGE 

R2 

LIVING & 

ENTERTAINMENT 

C D E F G H I M 

INTERNAL 

FLOORS 

C1 C2 C4 

C5 

EXTERNAL 

FLOORS & 

DECKING 

N/A 

C1 C2 C4 N/A 

WALLS ROOF CEILINGS CORNICE SKIRTING CILLS 

E1 E2 E5 

E10 E11 

E1 E2 E5 

E10 E11 

F1 F3 F5 

F6 F7 

F1 F3 F5 

F7 

G1 G2 

G7 

G1 G2 

G7 

H1 H3 I2 I4 

H1 H3 I2 I4 

M1 M2 

M3 

M1 M2 

R3 DINING ROOM C1 C2 C4 N/A 

E1 E2 E5 

E10 E11 

F1 F3 F5 

F7 

G1 G2 

G7 

H1 H3 I2 I4 

M1 M2 

M3 

R4 KITCHEN 

C1 C2 C3 

C4 C8 

N/A 

E1 E2 E5 

E6 E7 E8 

F1 F3 F5 

F7 

G1 G2 

G7 

H1 H3 I2 I4 

M1 M2 

M3 

R5 PANTRY 

C1 C2 C3 

C4 

N/A 

E1 E3 E4 

E5 

F1 F3 F5 

F6 

G1 G2 H1 H2 I2 I4 

M1 M2 

M3 

R6 

SCULLERY & 

LAUNDRY 

C1 C2 C3 N/A 

E1 E3 E4 

E5 

F1 F3 F5 

F6 

G1,G2 H1,H2 I2,I4 M1,M2,M3 

R7.1 MAIN BEDROOM C1 C2 C4 N/A 

E1 E2 E5 

E6 E11 

F1 F3 F5 

F7 

G1 G2 

G7 

H1 H3 I2 I4 

M1 M2 

M3 

R7.2 GUEST BEDROOM C1 C2 C4 N/A 

E1 E2 E5 

E6 E11 

F1 F3 F5 

F7 

G1 G2 

G7 

H1,H3 I2 I4 

M1 M2 

M3 

R8 BATHROOM C1 C2 C8 N/A 

E1 E2 E5, 

E8 E9 

F1 F3 F5 

F7 

G1 G2 H3 I4 

M1 M2 

M3 

R9 GUEST BATHROOM 

C1 C2 C3 

C4 C8 

N/A 

E1 E2 E5 

E8 E9 

F1 F3 F5 

F7 

G1 G2 H3 I4 

M1 M2 

M3 

R10 DRESSING ROOM 

C1 C2 C4 

C5 

N/A 

E1 E2 E5 

E6 

F1 F3 F5 

F7 

G1 G2 G7 H1 H3 I2 I4 

M1 M2 

M3 

R11 GYM/SPA 

C1 C2 C3 

C4 

N/A 

E1 E2 E5 

E6 

F2 F4 F5 

F7 F8 

G1 G2 G5 

G6 G7 

H1 H3 I2 I4 

M1 M2 

M3 

R12 STAIRWAY C1 C2 C4 N/A E1 E2 E5 N/A N/A H1 H3 I2 I4 N/A 

R13 COURTYARD N/A 

D1 D2 D3 

D4 D6 

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A M4 M5 

R14 UTILITY STORE C1 C2 C3 D1 D2 D3 E1 E3 E4 

F1 F3 F5 

F6 

G1 G3 H1 H2 I1 I2 I4 

M1 M2 

M3 

R15 

VERANDA 

BALCONY 

N/A D1 D2 D4 N/A F1 F4 F5 G4 G5 G6 N/A N/A N/A 

R16 

CIRCULATION 

TOWER 

N/A 

D1 D2 D3 

D4 

E1 E2 E10 

F2 F4 F5 

F6 F7 F8 

G1 G3 G4 

G5 

H1 H2 I1 I2 I3 I4 M2 M4 

R17 EXTERNAL STAIR N/A D1 D2 D4 

N/A 

D5 

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 

R18 POOL N/A 

D1 D2 D3 

D4 

V1 V2 N/A N/A N/A I3 I4 N/A 

R19 JACUZZI N/A 

D1 D2 D3 

D4 

V4 N/A N/A N/A I3 I4 N/A 

R20 EXTERNAL PAVILION N/A D3 D4 N/A 

F2 F4 F5 

F7 F8 

N/A N/A I3 I4 M4 

R21 

ENTRANCE 

WALKWAY 

N/A 

D1 D2 D3 

D4 

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 

R22 BUGGY PARKING N/A 

D1 D2 D3 

D4 D5 

N/A 

F1 F2 F3 

F4 F5 F6 

N/A N/A N/A N/ A 

R23 MAID STATION 

C1 C2 C3 

C5 

N/A 

E1 E2 E3 

E4 E6 E7 

F1 F3 F5 

F6 

G1 G6 H1 H2 I1 I2 

M1 M2 

M3 

R24 BUTLER STATION 

C1 C2 C3 

C5 

N/A 

E1 E2 E3 

E4 E6 E7 

F1 F3 F5 

F6 

G1 G6 H1 H2 I1 I2 

M1 M2 

M4 

R25 DRIVEWAY N/A D1 D2 D6 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 

R26 

EXTERNAL 

WALKWAY 

N/A D1 D2 D4 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 

M3

PROPOSED OVERALL 

PHASING PLAN

EXISTING 

BANYAN TREE 

VILLAS 

PROPOSED NEW OCEAN ESTATE BOUNDARY 

PROPOESED EASEMENT IN FAVOUR OF 

OCEAN ESTATE

ARTISTS IMPRESSIONS

BANYAN TREE LUXURY 5-BEDROOMED DOUBLE POOL VILLA

PARCEL & VILLA SIZES 

LEVEL 1 

LIVING AND 

ENTERTAINMENT 

AREA 

LEVEL 2 

MAIN BEDROOM 

SUITE 

2 BEDROOM VILLA 

A. INTERNAL AREAS: Sq.M 

Lounge: ...................................... 22.09 

Dining area: ............................... 12.18 

Serving kitchen: .......................... 13.58 

Scullery: ...................................... 5.30 

Service kitchen: .......................... 7.14 

Guest toilet: ................................ 3.08 

Main bedroom: ........................... 28.18 

Main dressing area: .................... 8.40 

Main bathroom: ......................... 15.95 

Guest bedroom: .......................... 26.81 

Guest dressing area: ................... 8.09 

Guest bathroom: ......................... 13.81 

Stairwell: .................................... 7.36 

Store: .......................................... 3.23 

Batteries: .................................... 2.30 

Refuse: ....................................... 0.90 

Total internal areas: 178.40 

B. EXTERNAL AREAS (covered): 

Living area: ................................ 29.48 

Pavilion: ..................................... 14.82 

Main: .......................................... 33.24 

Guest 1: ...................................... 16.60 

Other: .......................................... 45.35 

Total external areas: 139.49 

(covered) 

B. EXTERNAL AREAS (not covered): 

Decks: ......................................... 78.12 

Pools: .......................................... 34.50 


(not covered)



Lounge: ...................................... 24.29 

Dining area: ............................... 21.26 

Serving kitchen: ......................... 8.76 

Service kitchen: ........................ 9.22 

Guest toilet: ................................ 2.95 

Main bedroom: ........................... 22.62 

Day bed: ..................................... 3.52 


Main bathroom: ......................... 13.28 

Guest bedroom 1: ...................... 22.62 

Guest day bed 1: ........................ 4.21 

Guest dressing area 1: ................ 9.00 

Guest bathroom 1: ...................... 13.28 

Guest bedroom 2: ...................... 22.62 

Guest day bed 2: ........................ 4.21 


Guest bathroom 2: ..................... 13.28 

Store: ......................................... 15.09 

Batteries: .................................... 2.40 

Refuse: ....................................... 1.00 



Living area: ................................ 67.64 

Pavilion: ..................................... 35.00 

Main: ......................................... 30.80 

Guest 1: ..................................... 30.80 

Guest 2: ..................................... 30.80 

Other: ........................................ 50.72 


(covered) 


Decks: ....................................... 115.93 

Pools: ........................................ 72.36 


(not covered) 

LEVEL 1 – LOWER GUEST 

BEDROOM SUITE 

LEVEL 2 – LIVING AND 

ENTERTAINMENT AREA

LEVEL 1 – LOWER 

GUEST BEDROOM SUITE 

LEVEL 2 – LIVING AND 

ENTERTAINMENT AREA 



Lounge: ...................................... 27.46 

Dining area: ............................... 22.28 

Serving kitchen: ......................... 22.20 

Service kitchen: .......................... 6.72 

Guest toilet: ................................ 2.68 

Gym: .......................................... 10.46 

Main bedroom: ........................... 38.97 

Day bed: ..................................... 4.00 


Main bathroom: ......................... 12.73 

Main foyer: ................................ 2.68 

Guest bedroom 1: ...................... 22.62 

Guest day bed 1: ........................ 4.00 



Guest bedroom 2: ....................... 22.62 

Guest day bed 2: ......................... 4.00 

Guest dressing area 2: ................. 8.72 


Guest bedroom 3: ....................... 22.62 

Guest day bed 3: ........................ 4.00 


Guest bathroom 3: ..................... 13.04 

Guest bedroom 4: ...................... 22.62 

Guest day bed 4: ........................ 4.00 



Stairwell: .................................... 4.00 

Service counter & store: ............ 11.05 

Store: .......................................... 11.42 

Butler station: ............................. 9.09 

Batteries: .................................... 2.39 

Refuse: ....................................... 0.98 



Living area: ................................ 45.50 

Pavilion: ..................................... 48.73 

Main: .......................................... 45.50 

Guest 1: ...................................... 31.58 

Guest 2: ...................................... 39.57 

Guest 3: ...................................... 49.20 

Guest 4: ...................................... 39.57 

Other: ......................................... 110.62 


(covered) 


Decks: ....................................... 102.35 

Pools: ........................................ 86.38 


(not covered)

LIST OF PROFESSIONALS 

ARCHITECT: 

CMAI Architects 

URBAN DESIGN & LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT: 

CMAI Architects 

LAND SURVEYOR: 

S.J. McMillan Professional Land Surveyors 

& Ah-Kong Land Surveys Ltd 

CIVIL, ELECTRICAL & STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS: 

Gibb (Seychelles) 

LAWYERS: 

Webber Wentzel 

MARKETING: 

AdMakers International 

DEVELOPERS: 

Banyan Tree Holdings Limited

CMAI ARCHITECTS 

CMAI Property Development has worked with clients on profitable developments 

throughout South Africa and neighbouring countries for over 25 years. As specialists in 

Coastal Development, its core services include: 

• Identifying and assessing the development potential of large land holdings 

• Co-ordinating and securing development and environmental approvals 

• Master Planning and Site development planning 

• Urban Design 

• Project Co-Ordination and Management 

“Sister” company CMAI Architecture provides architecture, design and landscape architecture 

services to support the development implementation needs of clients. 

CMAI is committed to the environmentally sensitive development of land, property and natural 

resources, and supports the facilitation of sustainable development and the improvement of our 

living environment. 

Ultimately, CMAI is focused on unlocking land value, improving the quality of living environments 

and creating better places for people to live. 

SUCCESSFUL PAST PROJECTS: 

• Thesen Islands Marina, Knysna, South Africa 

• Pezula Private Estate, Knysna, South Africa 

• Hanglip, Plettenberg Bay, South Africa 

• Jack Nicklaus Golf Course, South Africa 

• Pledge Square, Knysna, South Africa 

• Hemel & Aarde Village, Hermanus, South Africa 

• River Sands Eco Estate, Port Alfred, South Africa

S.J. MCMILLAN PROFESSIONAL 

LAND SURVEYORS 

& AH-KONG LAND SURVEYS 

Based in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa, Shaun J.McMillan is a professional land surveyor 

providing a full range of services, including Cadastral surveys, township planning, topographical 

and engineering surveys, sectional title surveys, digital mapping, subdivision and rezoning and 

GPS surveys. 

GIBB SEYCHELLES 

The international engineering and scientific GIBB story begins in 1926 when Sir Alexander 

Gibb formed what is today part of one of the leading engineering consultancies in the world. 

The South African chapter of this story originated in 1956. Since then, the company has 

developed into a powerhouse with some 600 employees employed in offices located in every 

major city in South Africa, each offering a full range of services. Today, GIBB has a reputation 

as a well-known and highly respected company of leading engineers and scientists on the 

African continent 

GIBB has been involved in the SADC, East African and Nigerian regions since the late 1940s, 

and currently maintains local offices in Angola, Botswana, Kenya, Mauritius, Mozambique, 

Nigeria and Swaziland with separate companies established in a number of these countries. 

Through this extensive office network, associations and long-term relationships with local 

and international companies, GIBB has some further 200 staff employees, and is able to ensure 

that the best high quality expertise is incorporated into the timely and efficient completion of 

projects throughout sub-Saharan Africa.

WEBBER WENTZEL 

HENDRIK DU PREEZ 

Hendrik is a partner in the corporate department at Webber Wentzel and the current head of the 

corporate practice group in the Cape Town office. 

He practises corporate and commercial law with an emphasis on corporate transactions including 

mergers and acquisitions, corporate restructuring, finance and refinancing transactions and general 

commercial work. 

He has been involved in large international transactions and investments into South Africa 

including Standard Chartered Bank’s re-entry into South Africa, JP Morgan Chase’s acquisitions in 

South Africa and Parmalat’s international restructuring and refinancing and its subsequent listing 

on the Milan Stock Exchange. Hendrik is also part of the firm’s Africa initiative and has been 

travelling extensively over the last couple of years. 

Education: 

BComm (University of Stellenbosch) I LLB (University of Stellenbosch) 

HDip Tax Law (UCT) I Advanced Company and Advanced Contract Law (UCT) 

Membership in Professional Societies: 

Member of the Cape Law Society I Member of Law Society of the Northern Provinces 

Areas of Expertise: 

Corporate finance transactions including mergers and acquisitions 

Re-financing, lending and security transactions 

General corporate commercial transactions I Project Management

ADMAKERS INTERNATIONAL 

From private jets and yachts to Rolls Royces and the most resplendent international property 

developments, AdMakers International is the chosen marketing partner of the world’s most 

desirable high-ticket brands. 

Having enjoyed two decades in this privileged position, the Agency has been able to consolidate its 

knowledge and experience of the elite market. Positioned as the industry experts in this exclusive 

niche, international property clients approach AdMakers on everything from overall marketing 

strategy, to architecture, product mix, and how to position their developments in world markets. 

The recipient of multiple industry accolades, AdMakers is the world’s most awarded property 

marketing agency. 

With branches in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Montreal and New York, AdMakers International is 

a truly global agency, one that has consulted on property projects with a collective value of more 

than $30 billion across Africa, Europe, North America, South America, the Middle East and exotic 

island destinations such as the Bahamas, Seychelles, Cape Verde Islands and Mauritius.

BANYAN TREE HOLDINGS LIMITED 

Listed on the Singapore Stock Exchange, Banyan Tree Holdings is part-owner and the operator 

of Banyan Tree Seychelles. 1994 saw Banyan Tree open its first resort in Laguna Phuket, 

Thailand. Since then the group has gained global recognition and over 500 awards and 

accolades for the exclusive hotels, resorts and spas it manages and develops around the world. 

Epitomising the romance of travel, rejuvenation and relaxation in hand-picked destinations 

around the globe, the brand has become synonymous with providing the ultimate resort 

experience. 

The group, at end 2009, owns and/or operates 28 world-class resorts and hotels, 

67 spas, 69 retail galleries and 2 golf courses. 

SINCE 1995, BANYAN TREE HAS STEADILY EXTENDED ITS 

GEOGRAPHICAL PRESENCE TO 23 COUNTRIES – AND COUNTING. 

BAHRAIN Banyan Tree Al Areen 

CHINA Banyan Tree Hangzhou 

Banyan Tree Lijiang 

Banyan Tree Ringha 

Banyan Tree Sanya 

INDONESIA Banyan Tree Bintan 

Banyan Tree Bali 

MALDIVES Banyan Tree Madivaru 

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru 

RESORTS INCLUDE: 

MEXICO Banyan Tree Mayakoba 

Banyan Tree Cobo Marqués 

SEYCHELLES Banyan Tree Seychelles 

THAILAND Banyan Tree Bangkok 

Banyan Tree Phuket 

UAE Banyan Tree Al Wadi

FAQS (FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS) 

GENERAL INFORMATION ON SEYCHELLES 

Q How do I get to the Seychelles? 

A There are daily international flights with Air France, Condor (Germany), Kenya 

Airways, Qatar (Doha), Air Austral (Reunion), Air Seychelles (UK, France, 

Switzerland, Italy, South Africa, Mauritius and Singapore) and Emirates (Dubai). 

Q What is the weather like in Seychelles? 

A Tropical marine which is humid and cooler during the Southeast monsoon 

(May to September) and warmer during the Northwest monsoon (March to May). 

Temperatures rarely vary outside of the range of 24°C to 32°C and the country lies 

outside the hurricane belt, so severe storms are rare, making Seychelles a year 

round holiday destination. 

Q Where should I go within the Seychelles? 

A Most of the islands can be visited either by plane or boat offering many different 

day trips or long weekends. Along with the pristine beaches there are art studios, 

galleries, nature reserves, national monuments, religious sites, waterfalls and 

national heritage sites to visit. For more information, visit the website of the 

Seychelles Tourist Board at www.seychelles.travel/en/home/index.php. 

Q How do I travel around the islands? 

A “Air Seychelles” offers daily domestic flights to a few of the other islands including 

Praslin and chartered flights to the other islands. “Helicopter Seychelles” is a 

charter company specialising in island transfers, excursions and scenic flights. 

“Zilair” offers an air-conditioned aerial limo service between the Seychelles inner- 

islands and the “Island Development Company” (IDC) offers daily flights to 

Desroches and Alphonse and chartered flights to the other islands. 

The inter-island ferry leaves from Mahé to Praslin and connections to La Digue and 

smaller islands can be made from Praslin. Some islands, such as Silhouette, Cerf 

and Saint Anne operate their own personal transport service to and from Mahé.

Q Is a visa required to enter Seychelles? 

A No foreigner requires a visa to enter Seychelles. A one month’s visitor permit is 

issued on arrival into the country and can be extended. All visitors do require a 

valid passport for the duration of their stay and return, sufficient funds and 

accommodation. 

Q Is it possible to stay longer? 

A Extensions are possible but must be applied for a week before expiry of 

visitor’s permit. 

Q Can I work in Seychelles? 

A The employment market is closely regulated in the Seychelles and low limits are set 

on the percentage of foreign workers in companies. To work in Seychelles a 

foreigner will need a work permit; GOP (Gainful Occupation Permit) which comes 

at a fee. 

Q What is the currency? 

A The currency is the Seychellois rupee (SCR) which was freely floated on 

November 3rd 2008 and is made up of 100 cents. 

Q What are the main languages in Seychelles? 

A English, French and Seychellois Creole are all official languages. 

Q What about education? 

A The literacy rate for the Seychellois is more than 90 per cent and currently there 

are 23 crèches, 25 primary schools and 13 secondary schools. The schools are 

located on Mahé, Praslin, La Digue and Silhouette. 

There are also three private schools Ecole Française, International School and 

Independent School; all three are situated on Mahé. 

There are seven post-secondary schools and a university opening on Mahé. 

Q What is the main religion of the Seychellois? 

A Most Seychellois are Christian with 82% being Roman Catholic, 6% Anglican, 

1% Seventh Day Adventist and 3.4% other Christian denominations. 

The rest of the islands are 2% Hindu, 1% Muslim and 1.5% other non-Christian 

1.5% are non-specified and 0.6% have no religion.

Q Is there a good health care system in Seychelles? 

A There are medical facilities available on the main islands, with a government 

hospital and emergency room in Victoria, and private medical clinics throughout 

the rest of Mahé and Praslin. Medical insurance with full evacuation cover is 

strongly recommended. 

Q Can I bring my pet into the country? 

A Seychelles does not accept pets for a period of less than 6 months and all bird 

species are prohibited. All cats and dogs require an import permit issued by the 

Veterinary Services and these pets must have valid vaccination records including 

proof of rabies inoculation as well as Veterinary Health Certificate. There is a 

quarantine period of 2 weeks to 6 months depending on the country of origin. 

Q How is the banking system? 

A Banking hours are generally Monday to Friday 08h00 – 14h00 and 

Saturday 08h00 – 11h00. All banks will process travellers’ cheques and process 

foreign exchange transactions, however passports are required and commission may 

be charged. There are ATM facilities that accept most international bank cards 

throughout the islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. 

Exchange rates are determined by the market and may differ between the banks. 

Money may only be changed with an authorised money dealer such as a bank or 

bureau de change. 

Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Seychelles. 

Q What types of banking products are available from the commercial banks in the 

Seychelles and who are the key commercial banks? 

A Seychelles has a well-established and financially sound banking environment that 

offers a diverse range of products and services. A broad range of account products 

are available, including current (chequebook) accounts, savings accounts, call 

deposits, and fixed deposits. Foreign currency accounts are available for qualifying 

clients.

The commercial banking sector provides twenty-four hour banking facilities 

through Automated Teller Machines (ATM). All major international credit 

cards are widely accepted throughout the country and may be used at the ATMs. 

All commercial banks are regulated and supervised by the Central Bank of 

Seychelles. 

There are six commercial banks and two other non-bank financial institutions 

currently established in the Seychelles, namely, Barclays Bank (Seychelles) Ltd, 

Mauritius Commercial Bank (Seychelles) Ltd, Habib Bank Ltd, Seychelles 

International Mercantile Banking Corporation Ltd (S.I.M.B.C.) – Nouvobanq, 

Bank of Baroda, Seychelles Savings Bank Ltd, Development Bank of Seychelles 

and Seychelles Credit Union. 

Q Is offshore banking available in the Seychelles? 

A Non-domestic banking in Seychelles is regulated by the Central Bank of Seychelles 

and is administered under the Financial Institutions Act 2004 to cater for offshore 

as well as domestic banking. The Act makes provision for the licensing of offshore 

banks and incorporates the necessary flexibility to encourage growth in that sector. 

It also features full confidentiality with regards to information of its clients with the 

exception of criminal investigation cases. 

In Seychelles, there are two banks that have been granted an Offshore Banking 

License by the Central Bank of Seychelles, namely, the Barclays Bank (Seychelles) 

Ltd and BMI Offshore Bank (BMIO). 

Q Is satellite TV available in Seychelles? 

A Multi-channel cable and satellite TV services are widely available. BBC World 

service and Radio France are available on FM. 

Q How do mobile phones work? 

A There is GSM coverage on most islands and international roaming on your existing 

mobile international number will work on the main islands.

Q Can we drink the tap water? 

A Tap water meets World Health Organisation standards but most people prefer to 

drink bottled water, which is widely available. 

Q What is the electric voltage in Seychelles? 

A The voltage is 220-240 volts AC 50 Hz throughout the Seychelles and the British 

Standard square three-pin, 13 amp sharp electric plug is used. Visitors from other 

countries, other than the United Kingdom, are advised to bring their own adapters. 

INFORMATION ON DEVELOPMENT 

Q Who is the developer? 

A The developer, Ocean Estate (Seychelles) Limited, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of 

Banyan Tree Resorts (Seychelles) Limited, who have been operating Banyan Tree 

Seychelles for the past 7 years. 

Q Who has the responsibility for the development? 

A Ocean Estate (Seychelles) Limited is the developer and as such has the overall 

responsibility for the development of The Ocean Estate. In addition 

hereto, the developer has appointed a team of international advisers to assist 

with the development. This team of professionals include architects, project 

managers, environmental specialists, engineers, surveyors, quantity surveyors, 

sales and marketing specialists, legal advisors and all other ancillary service 

providers. These international contractors will work closely with local 

professionals who are fully au fait with doing business in the Republic of Seychelles 

and who provide invaluable assistance to contribute to the overall success of this 

development. 

Q Who is financing the development of The Ocean Estate? 

A The project is being financed mainly by shareholders’ equity. However, the 

developer has also procured project and development finance from reputable 

financial institutions.

OWNERSHIP 

Q What legal title in the villas will be passed to purchasers? 

A All villas in the The Ocean Estate are sold and transferred to purchasers on 

freehold title. 

Q What are the formalities imposed by Seychelles law in respect of the transfer 

of freehold title in the Seychelles? 

A Freehold title in immovable property may be transferred as of right to a Seychellois 

national. For any non-Seychellois national, such transfer can be effected subject to 

sanction having been obtained from the Government of the Republic of Seychelles 

in terms of the Immovable Property (Transfer Restriction) Act. This required 

sanction application will be facilitated by the sales and marketing agents and will 

be submitted to relevant authorities as part of the sale process. 

Q What is sanction and how is it obtained? 

A Sanction approval is required for every non-Seychellois for purposes of owning 

immovable property in the Seychelles and will be facilitated by the sales and 

marketing agents. This is a formal application process and various documents are 

required to be submitted with the application. These documents include character 

references, police record certificates, copies of passports etc. Full details hereof will 

be provided to each purchaser. 

Q What ownership structures are available to purchasers? 

A The purchasers can acquire the villa in their personal names, or in the name of a 

corporate entity. 

Q Can a local holding company be established to own property? 

A Yes, a local Seychelles company can be registered, the shareholding in which can 

then be structured to conform with the requirements of each purchaser. 

A foreigner purchasing shares therein will be subject to obtaining government 

sanction. 

Q Are there any other types of companies that could be used to hold an interest in 

property in the Seychelles? 

A An interesting and versatile form of company is the Seychelles International 

Business Company (“IBC”), which is tax-free corporation designed for engagement 

in all forms of international business, with no minimum reporting and record-

keeping requirements and comprehensive confidentiality features. They can be set 

up within 24 hours by non-resident shareholders and the annual fees are low. 

An IBC cannot hold an interest in any Seychelles immoveable property, however 

it can hold an interest in shares, thus it could hold shares in a local property 

holding company. It is regarded as a foreigner for these purposes, so sanction will 

be required for the IBC to own such shares. 

SALE AGREEMENT 

Q How do I reserve a villa in The Ocean Estate? 

A A villa can be reserved by signature of a Reservation Agreement. In terms of such 

agreement a reservation fee of $30,000 is to be paid into an escrow account, 

whereafter the villa will be reserved and taken off the market. A full set of sales 

documentation will then be forwarded to a purchaser who has to sign these 

agreements within a period of 14 days after receipt thereof. If he fails to do so the 

reservation will lapse and the villa will be put back on the market. 

Q How do I pay for my villa? 

A Within a period of 30 days after the signature of the Sale Agreement, 10% of the 

purchase price has to be paid into the Escrow Account. Thereafter a purchaser has 

two further periods of 30 days each to pay two further instalments of 10% of the 

purchase price. As soon as the purchaser has so paid 30% of the purchase price, 

the balance has to be secured or payments have to be made to equal the draw down 

procedures set out in the Sale Agreement. The purchase price is disbursed out of 

the Escrow Account on a draw down procedure set out in the sales documentation 

and duly vouched for by progress certificates from the architects. 

Q What is an escrow account and where will it be held? 

A The escrow account is set up to protect purchasers in that the developer will not 

be entitled to any monies out of this escrow account, unless the procedure set out 

in the Sale Agreements for the draw downs is followed. 

Q When do I become owner of my villa? 

A Transfer of the villa is effected after the final completion date as the developer 

wishes to finish the construction process and then provide purchasers with a duly 

completed and fully furnished and fitted out villa.

Q What security do I have prior to the transfer date? 

A As soon as 30% of the purchase price has been paid into the escrow account a 

fixed charge over the land parcel on which the villa is to be constructed will be 

registered in the purchaser’s name, which charge will only be cancelled on transfer 

of the villa into the name of the purchaser. 

Q What restriction (if any) is placed on purchasers selling their villas before the 

development is complete? 

A Prior to the transfer date of the villa, no purchaser may dispose of his villa without 

the prior written consent of the developer. After transfer, the developer has a right 

of first refusal during the development period. 

Q Which legal system will govern the agreement of sale and ancillary 

documentation to this development? 

A The agreements are governed by the laws of Seychelles. 

Q When is occupation of the first villa likely to take place? 

A Late 2011. 

BANYAN TREE PRIVATE COLLECTION 

Q What is the Banyan Tree Private Collection? 

A As a purchaser you qualify for membership of the Banyan Tree Private Collection. 

This is a collection of properties forming part of the Banyan Tree Global 

Destination Club. Membership entitles a person to receive annual occupation 

rights to these properties across the world on certain specific terms and conditions. 

Q What fees, if any, are to be paid for such membership? 

A The developer will pay for and on behalf of each purchaser, the once-off joining 

fee to enable the purchaser to receive this membership. 

Q Are there any annual membership fees? 

A Yes, all purchasers will be liable for the annual membership fees as and when such 

fees are due and payable. At current levels, this varies between US$3000 - 6000.

LETTING POOL ARRANGEMENTS 

Q Is there a rental programme available for villas in Banyan Tree Ocean Estate? 

A Yes, purchasers will be offered the option to put their villas in a letting pool that 

will be managed and operated by Banyan Tree Resorts. 

Q If my villa is in the letting pool, will I still be able to use it when I want? 

A A purchaser is being offered two options. A revenue sharing option and a standard 

option. [In terms of the revenue sharing option a purchaser will be allowed to 

occupy his villa for 60 days during every year at no cost. In terms of the standard 

option, a purchaser will be able to occupy his villa for 305 days of every year, but 

be liable for all costs in relation thereto. 

Q What are the characteristics of the revenue sharing option? 

A Purchasers who have elected the revenue sharing option will be entitled to one 

third of the net rental revenue received from the letting pool, but will not be liable 

for any costs in relation to the management of the villa and services provided by 

Banyan Tree Resorts. 

Q What are the characteristics of the standard option? 

A Purchasers who have elected the standard option will be entitled to one half of the 

net rental revenue received from the letting pool, but will be liable for payment 

of all costs for the management of the villa and services provided by Banyan Tree 

Resorts. 

Q What are these services that Banyan Tree Resorts are providing to the 

purchasers? 

A For a fixed fee the services included are – 

provision of security guards; 

housekeeping service; 

gardening service; 

swimming pool maintenance; 

cable television connection; 

pest control of the villa every month; 

international direct dial (IDD) telephone connection; 

wire and wireless internet access; 

the provision of 2 electric powered vehicles (EPV’s), together with repairs and 

maintenance thereto; 

common area expenses (buggy path lights, desalination plant and generator 

maintenance, waste removal, landscaping, sewerage treatment, closed circuit 

television (“CCTV”) maintenance, salary of appropriate person in charge).

TAXATION / EXCHANGE CONTROL 

Q Is there any inheritance, gift tax in the Seychelles? 

A No, there is neither inheritance nor gift tax in the Seychelles. 

Q Is there any capital gains tax in the Seychelles? 

A No, there is no capital gains tax in the Seychelles. 

WITHHOLDING TAX 

Withholding tax is not payable on rental income. If the property is owned by a 

local company and the rental is distributed by way of dividend to a foreign 

shareholder of such property owning company, a withholding tax at the prevailing 

rate (currently 15%) will be payable. This is a final tax, meaning that the dividend 

will not be considered income for income tax purposes. 

Q What are the tax implications in having shares in an IBC? 

A A Seychelles IBC is not subject to any tax or duty on income or profits. 

A shareholder of a Seychelles IBC is also not subject to any tax on his income 

derived from the IBC. In a similar fashion, a Seychelles IBC is also exempt from 

any stamp duties on all transactions relating to its business, in particular on any 

transfers of property to or by the company, and on any transactions in respect of 

the shares, debt obligations or other securities of the IBC. 

If the local property owning entity pays a dividend to an IBC, the 15% withholding 

tax on dividends will be payable. 

Q Are there any exchange control restrictions on receiving funds from the Seychelles? 

A All restrictions on the trading of the Seychelles rupee were removed in November 

2008 under an international monetary fund sponsored economic stabilization 

programme.

CONTACT 

Anse Intendance, Intendance Road, Mahé, Republic of Seychelles, Indian Ocean 

TELEPHONE 

HOTEL +248 383 500 

OFFICE DIRECT +248 383 516 

FACSIMILE 

FACSIMILE +248 383 600 

EXTENSIONS 

SPA RECEPTION (ext 7401/2) 

SPA OFFICE DIRECT (ext 3516) 

GALLERY SHOP (ext 7288) 

EMAIL 

spa-seychelles@banyantree.com 

gallery-seychelles@banyantree.com 

GOLF & MARINE 

Annerette Fourie 

Mobile: 082 452 1930 

00248 383500 

sales@golfandmarine.net

Buyers Information Pack - English - banyan tree

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