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Karis Scarlette’s Dance & Wellness Retreat Returns to Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort

Retreat features instruction from British Royal Ballet-trained dancer.
Julie Keller Callaghan

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Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort, a sanctuary of wellness surrounded by the clear waters of Baa Atoll, has announced the return of its popular Baa Atoll Ballet Retreat led by British Royal Ballet-trained dancer and certified breathwork facilitator, Karis Scarlette. The classical ballet program will again be open to novices and dancers of all ages and levels, inviting them to plunge into the balletic arts from November 12 – 23, 2024.

Ringed by pristine sandy beaches, the island of Fares is a lush landscape of emerald and aquamarine hues, with shady avenues cutting through a maze of towering coconut palms. Transforming the resort into a stage for in-nature healing, the retreat is a holistic wellness experience at the intersection of physical movement and mental serenity. In addition to reaping a repertoire of benefits such as improved muscular strength, better posture, and reduced stress, attendees will enjoy a host of relaxing spa treatments and ballet-themed amenities, as well as learn more about Scarlette’s incredible journey over themed cocktails and delectable dining on the beach. 

“I find that the Maldives, with its incredible beauty, is a perfect fit for ballet retreats, with pristine nature enhancing the healthful virtues of the art,” says Scarlette. “After last year’s success, I’m excited to continue my partnership with Avani+ Fares, making ballet more accessible and expanding our understanding of wellness.”

This year’s retreat brings back popular classes for kids, including Tutus & Twirls that nurtures creativity, coordination, musicality, and technique. For adults, Sunrise Serenity weaves together mindfulness and breathwork, while private and group ballet classes are tailored to suit all levels and abilities, adding a new dimension to the Maldivian holiday experience. 

Enrollment is now open, with two packages available for adults and families. Starting from $4,183, the five-night adults’ package includes:

  • Accommodation for two staying in a Premium Ocean View Room on half-board 
  • Two Ballet Basics for Beginners classes per adult (60 minutes) 
  • One Private Ballet Class per adult (60 minutes)
  • Two Sunrise Serenity: Breathwork in Baa workshops per adult (30 minutes)
  • One Tutu Tension Release massage or Dancer’s Detox wrap at AvaniSpa
  • Two ballet-themed cocktails at Tribe bar
  • Farewell Adrift Beach Dinner hosted by Karis Scarlette
  • Return seaplane transfer from Velana International Airport (MLE).   

Available to book from November 12 – 17 or November 18 – 23, 2024.

The five-night family package for two adults and two children (10 years old and under) starts from USD 5,459++ and includes: 

  • Family accommodation staying in a Two-Bedroom Ocean View Pavilion on half-board 
  • Two Tutus & Twirls: Ballet for Tots classes (30 minutes) 
  • One Private Family Ballet Class (60 minutes)
  • One Me & Mom or Dad massage at AvaniSpa (60 minutes)
  • Ballet-themed arts and crafts at AvaniKids 
  • Farewell Petit Bistro Ballet Brunch hosted by Karis Scarlette 
  • Return seaplane transfer from Velana International Airport (MLE)       

Available to book from November 12 – 17 or November 18 – 23, 2024.

Nestled in a shallow atoll lagoon, the teardrop-shaped island of Fares is one of only 61 islands situated in the marine protected waters of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Beyond the Wellness Studio, days here are spent snorkeling the house reef and exploring the fourteen dive sites and two dive holes, with dolphin and turtle sightings all but guaranteed. Even more aquatic adventure awaits at the iconic Hanifaru Bay, famous for being a feeding hotspot for manta rays, and at a nearby chain of ring-shaped islands teeming with shawls of tropical fish.

About The Author
julieKeller_author-1

Julie is the co-founder of Well Defined and a longtime influencer and advocate in the wellness world. Along with her work at Well Defined, she is an executive recruiter and marketing specialist for Hutchinson Consulting. She is also a consultant and content strategist for numerous wellness brands. She is the former editor-in-chief and publisher of American Spa and was named a 2019 Folio Top Woman in Media in the Industry Trailblazers category and a 2018 winner of ISPA’s Innovate Award. She is also a seasoned journalist, specializing in spa, travel, health, fitness, wellness, sustainability, and beauty. She has been published in Departures, ForbesTraveler.com, E! Online, Gayot.com, Insider’s Guide to Spas, Luxury Travel Advisor, Marin Magazine, Ocean Home, Smart Meetings, Spa Asia, and Travel Agent.