Hotels and Activities

Mandarin Oriental is scheduled to be opening its second hotel in Thailand on the west coast of Phuket (the first being the established Mandarin Oriental Bangkok). The luxury resort will overlook Laem Singh Bay; a new build project, the resort is set to have 105 rooms including 37 pool villas with views of the Andaman Sea, 3 restaurants, bars, a beach club and spa.

 

Phuket is getting a new aqua park. The US$40 million Blue Tree Phuket water park is scheduled to open in 2019 and is billing itself as the island's first international-standard, integrated water park and family entertainment centre.  Set around the signature Blue Tree Lagoon, it will feature retail and dining outlets, a waterpark, a beach club, and health and fitness facilities. 

Pamooko Pamooka

Phuket

Due to open 2019 (date TBC)

Kata Group Resorts, one of South Thailand’s longest established hotel owning and operating companies, has begun construction of its eighth resort hotel with the groundbreaking ceremony and the lifting into position of the main pillar.
 

The ceremony was led by the group’s president, Pramookpisitht Acharayachai, and by former Phuket senator Dr. Tunyaratt Acharayachai.
 

Named Pamooko Pamooka, the new resort is located at Kata Beach in Phuket and is scheduled to open fully completed in 2019.
 

The family-friendly resort will have its own water park, accommodation facilities of 512 rooms and suites, and large conference and function rooms that will have a maximum capacity of 1,100 persons and be suitable for all meetings and events.

Kata Group Resorts currently owns seven resorts in South Thailand, of which it operates six. There are five Beyond branded properties, at Kata, Karon, Patong, Krabi and Khaolak. Phuket Orchid Resort & Spa is located at Karon, while the Novotel Samui Resort Chaweng Beach Kandaburi is located at Samui.
 

For more information please contact andrew@uniquetravelrepresentation.co.uk

The new luxury InterContinental Phuket Resort is scheduled to open in Q2 2019.

The exclusive sanctuary will comprise of a mix of Thai-inspired contemporary design villas and hotel rooms that offer unobstructed views of the Andaman Sea while being surrounded by forests of pine trees and facilities designed by award-winning designers and architects. Nestled along the 2km golden sands of beautiful Kamala Beach - also known as Millionaire's Mile - protected by forested hills, with stunning Andaman Sea vista's & direct beachfront access, InterContinental Phuket Resort is one of the most serene hideaways on Phuket Island. The ethereal splendor of the resorts architecture, fine-dining, and luxurious abodes set amongst lush gardens with private lagoon, all combine to offer an experience of pure sophistication, yet only a short distance away from Phuket's famous temples and markets.

 

2018

DusitD2 Ao Nang
Scheduled to open 15 December 2018

Hyatt Regency

Bangkok

1 November 2018

Scheduled to open in November 2018, Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit is a modern Thai house designed to foster connections. The 273-energizing guestrooms and suites is featuring floor-to-ceiling picture windows with commanding views of Bangkok. On 29 which is a multi-purpose event venue, Market Café - Thai authentic restaurant, The Lobby Lounge, Regency Club Lounge, swimming pool, fitness centre and 1,359 square metres of meeting space, including a ballroom.

Splash Beach Resort

Mai Khao Phuket

1 October 2018

Langham Hospitality Group adds Splash Beach Resort, Mai Khao Phuket to its growing portfolio of hotels and resorts.
 

Located at the tranquil Mai Khao beach, the longest beach on the island, the resort is situated at the northwest coast of Phuket, stretching along 11 kilometers.  It is part of the pristine Sirinart National Park where no motorized water sport is allowed in the area. The beach was previously a breeding ground for leatherback turtles.
 

The property has 615 rooms, suites, penthouse and villas to suit any holiday accommodation preference. The resort offers practical, functional and comfortable lodging to young, fun-loving families.
 

Phuket’s only integrated resort on Mai Khao beach, a modern fun waterpark complex, Splash Jungle Waterpark is set within the resort. Guests can enjoy thrilling rides such as Boomerango, a reverse free fall off a vertical wall; a six level wave pool, and an aqua play pool for younger children. For those that prefer less of an adrenaline rush can opt to relax and float through the 335-meter lazy river. The resort also has a sandy pool with direct access to the beach.

 

The opening of Cape Fahn Hotel, Private Islands, in September 2018 marks a historic

moment for tourists on Koh Samui and for Cape and Kantary Hotels. Destined to be one of the most exclusive destinations in Thailand, these private islands reveal a range of secluded villas each with its own plunge pool. Some nestle in verdant tropical greenery; some on higher ground with the trees framing uplifting views of the sea; some gaze out over the beach to the gently breaking waves. Then there is Fahn Noi Private Island, a two-bedroom pool villa on a Utopian paradise surrounded by trees and sweeping views of the sea. The fully air- conditioned ‘Hibiscus’ fine-dining restaurant provides the delights of “Bistronomic Cuisine” and the ‘Hue’ all-day bar and restaurant, offers international and Thai menus of the highest quality. For the true romantic, private beach-dining can be arranged. All this is sited a one- hour boat trip from Surat Thani or a gentle 10-minute saunter from Samui International Airport. Media library: https://capekantaryhotels.com/gallery/gallery/capecollection/capefahn/

Dusit International, Thailand’s global hospitality company, has signed a management agreement with Vogue Pranang Bay Resort Co., Ltd. to operate dusitD2 Ao Nang, due to open at the end of 2018. The upscale mid-market property has been entirely refurbished and updated, with new additions to the existing buildings. dusitD2 Ao Nang comprises 173 modern guest rooms and suites with a choice of sea, mountain or pool views. The hotel offers all amenities for a fun and comfortable getaway, including an indoor and outdoor all-day-dining restaurant, a lobby bar, an outdoor swimming pool with a separate kids’ pool, a fitness centre, a spa, and a 200-square-metre ballroom. For families travelling with children, dusitD2 Ao Nang also features an extensive kids’ playground that will keep the hotel’s youngest guests entertained throughout their stay. Located 25 kilometres from Krabi International Airport, the new dusitD2 Ao Nang is tucked away amidst lush jungle greenery on a hillside in downtown Ao Nang, yet within walking distance to the beach, providing convenient access to all of Krabi’s main attractions and popular such as jungle trekking, sightseeing excursions and boat trips to some of Thailand’s most stunning beaches and islands, located within protected national marine parks, for snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking and bird-watching. The hotel will be the second Dusit property in the popular resort area of Krabi. Dusit International currently operates 27 hotels across four brands worldwide, and is rapidly expanding its footprint in key global markets. dusitD2 Ao Nang will be the third dusitD2 branded hotel in Thailand, following dusitD2 Chiang Mai and dusitD2 Kao Yai.

 

Against the seductive backdrop of famous Chaweng Beach, The Library reads like an elegant monograph – a design-centric hotel that invites one to sit with a book in quiet contemplation while also weaving its own story of natural beauty and unmatched luxury. With its existing 46 studios, suites and 20 new luxury pool villas opening Q3 this year, this minimalist resort continues to cement its reputation as Koh Samui’s top boutique accommodation. Focusing on the core concepts of space, privacy and mystery, the new pool villas consist of 16 1-bedroom villas and a 2-bedroom villa. The 1-bedroom Secret Pool Villas form the crux of this new curation, perfectly suited for discerning couples and honeymooners, these are sprawling private spaces and key features include a dedicated entertainment space, full dining area with pantry, spacious Jacuzzi bathtub, 8-meter long saltwater swimming pool, oversized tandem rain shower, his and hers walk-in closets and individual lavatories. The 2-Bedroom Secret Pool Villa provides the exclusivity of a private home with spacious comfort for hosting 2 couples traveling together, a small family or a group of friends. A further two ultra-premium villas will also be available by Q3 2018. The Editor is a luxurious villa geared towards the working creative, and The Writer is a singular, expansive unit featuring beach frontage and access, dedicated living and dining spaces, a private library, outdoor cinema and backyard gym, an upper floor terrace with spectacular views and an 8.5 x 7.5-meter saltwater swimming pool. High res images and hotel fact sheet available upon request.

The Kalima Resort & Villas is a stylish and sophisticated new hotel due to soft open in December 2018. The property is located in Khao Lak and is a 50 minute drive away from Phuket International Airport. Cleverly designed in an eclectic style, this resort blends the authentic lifestyle of the old miners with the mood of mangrove forests combined with a beachfront location. This gives it the perfect natural atmosphere of down-to-earth relaxation. Furthermore, the prominent beach club which is decorated in old miners' club style provides fun and enjoyment for all visitors. Accommodations are elegantly appointed to relax and soothe your mood. Starting at a generous 46 sqm all rooms are spacious and offer magnificent views of nature or provide convenient pool access. Families have plenty of space in the dedicated Family Suites featuring separate bedrooms and a living area. Guests will feel a renewed sense of calm staying in spacious accommodations that blend indoor and outdoor living with natural views. 

 

The Bangkok EDITION is a new generation of luxury and sophisticated design located along Narathiwat Road, in the Mahnakorn Tower (Bangkok’s tallest building) close to North Sathorn Road junction. The hotel features 154 guest rooms and 5 levels of public space, offering over 5,500 sq. ft. of combined meeting space including a boardroom, main function room and outdoor banquet terrace. Food and beverage outlets include two signature restaurants (one with a celebrity Michelin start chef), a lobby bar and pool bar as well as a sky bar. A pool, state-of-the-art fitness centre and spa with 4 treatment rooms will also be available for hotel guests. More details to be released shortly.

www.editionhotels.com/bangkok

 

The Raya Heritage is the sister property to luxury resorts The Rayavadee (Krabi) and Tamarind Village (Chiang Mai). The Raya Heritage is a 5-star luxury sanctuary situated in lush green garden on the bank of the River Ping designed in traditional northern Thai style inspired by the Lanna culture. All 33 all-new suites have views of the river, there are also 11 private pool suites (located on the first floor). There is a restaurant called Kru Khao, a tea terrace for drinks and light bites called Laan Cha and a Lounge & Lawn area for pre-dinner drinks/cocktails and light bites as well. The Aiwaan Spa has a unique northern Thai style steam concept. The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle to the Old Town in Chiang Mai which takes 20 mins (drop off point is sister hotel, Tamarind Village) Press release and images available on request.

Scheduled for completion end of June 2018, Let’s Sea; Hua Hin’s premier beachfront resort is undergoing a major refurbishment with renovations and refinements to all guest rooms and public spaces. The new Barefoot Luxury concept introduces a softer, richer character to the resort, creating a space that suggests genuine refinement but with a casual, laid back ambiance that puts guests immediately at ease. All 40 guestrooms will be redeveloped to reflect the latest design trends as well as new improved features including; upgraded mood lighting, the latest eco-friendly air-conditioning, widescreen Internet TVs, high-speed Internet connections, Bose Bluetooth speakers, new eco-smart showers, and oversized spa tubs in both our premium Moondeck Jacucci Suites, and Pool Access Jacucci Suites. The famous beachfront restaurant will also see significant enhancements and there are novel new spaces to be discovered too including a relaxing sun deck located above the ‘Energy’ fitness studio. Full release and images available on request.

 

Belmond launches Art & Fashion in Motion 2018 – a collaboration with local artists to bring guests closer to contemporary Asian culture. Art and Fashion meet travel as two of the nostalgic carriages receive an artist’s makeover by Thai artist, Somnuek (Parn) Klangnok; with whimsical drawings evoking a sense of fantasy; and celebrating the glamour of travel, Thai fashion designer, Vvon Sugunnasil introduces stylish new uniforms. Celebrating 25 years of iconic rail journeys this year, Eastern & Oriental Express embodies the golden age of romantic rail travel mixing old world glamour with new cutting-edge designs and modern artwork – contemporary nostalgia. Full release available on request for more detail.

The Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort has launched its Blue Fire Cooking School, specialising in Thai cuisine. Head chef Teerathep ‘Tor’ Tishabhiromya will conduct the classes. Each class, which is limited to a maximum of six participants, starts with guests selecting herbs and vegetables from the chef’s garden at the Outrigger. Guests can choose from a morning session, which culminates in a lunch, or an afternoon lesson, which finishes with dinner. At the end, each student will receive the Blue Fire recipe cook book signed by Chef Tor, a souvenir certificate, and an Outrigger Resort apron. The Outrigger, renowned as a couple-friendly all-pool villa hideaway with a de facto private beach in a quiet corner of Samui, is already acclaimed for its Signature Experiences that reflect local Thai culture. These include fruit carving, batik making, kick boxing, leather etching – and now authentic Thai cooking. Full release available on request for more detail.

 

January/February 2018
Asian Trails, a destination management company, has launched the following in Thailand:

 

·       Exquisite Culinary Experiences on Phuket

In close collaboration with luxury hotel Amanpuri, Asian Trails Thailand has created exquisite local food experiences. Discerned travellers are guided through the unchartered yet delicious side of Phuket’s famous food culture in style.

 

·       Holiday Villas & Residences

With over 300 villas, residences and mansions in its portfolio, Asian Trails Thailand now offers a huge collection of multi-bedroom overnight addresses in the Kingdom. Ranging from 1 to 10 bed room accommodations, the company is filling in the void for a growing demand of larger scale stand-alone accommodation for families and parties.

 

·       Sustainable Elephant Experiences

After months of inspections, Asian Trails has mapped out a select choice of elephant sanctuaries in line with tour operators associations strict sustainable guidelines. With conservation centres in the north, centre and south of Thailand, Asian Trails now guarantees to only sell trips to camps where elephants are treated with respect, care and inside a protected environment.

 

·       Pedalling through Bangkok to discover city life after dark

Day or night, Bangkok never seizes to amaze visitors. With its kaleidoscope of sights and sounds, Asian Trails Thailand’s latest offering takes you on an evening bike tour behind the scenes of the city. These tours promise lots of fun as you pedal through the old parts of this metropolis.

 

Launching with 10 buses in   2018, the new bus service will carry passengers from the airport directly to Phuket town. Fares are estimated to be priced between 50-150 THB depending on the route. Upcoming routes for the island include Cherngtalay, Kamala, Patong, Karon and Kata.

 

31 Private Pool Villas - 25 Tree House Villas and 6 Beachfront Villas. Luxury Adult Only Resort. Adult only (16 plus).

 

Located on the same stretch of secluded beach as its sister hotel, Paradise Koh Yao, and only a short journey from Phuket International Airport, you will arrive to the start of your Tree House Villas experience. From the Yacht Haven Marina, you will embark on a 55-minute speed boat journey where you will soak up the scenery through the spectacular world famous Phang Nga bay. Located in a remote corner at the top of this idyllic island of Koh Yao Noi and nestled within a national reserve, you will find this luxury and exclusive resort in a tropical rain-forest on it’s own private bay which is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.

 

Our romantic and exclusive resort will be opened later in 2017 offering 25 signature Tree House Villas with 100sqm of duplex living space and private infinity plunge pools all accessible via their own private suspension bridge and an additional 6 Beachfront Pool Villas which are single story villas and have a 7m private infinity pool with direct walk on beach access.

 

The resort has been designed for guests with a love of the environment, the beauty of nature and the desire to rediscover their inner child. Set amongst the jungles canopy in a treetop location with unspoilt views to the sea and Phang Nga Bay, these villas offer an experience like no other. Each Villa comes complete with a private dining facility, personal complimentary daily refilled mini bar stocked with your favourite drink, a double swing, day beds and a cloakroom. Each villa will also have access to the E-butler service which allows you to request anything you desire via the in room tablet; whether it be in-room dinning, in-room spa treatments or you want to arrange dinner reservations. You will be able to arrange it all in the comfort of your own private villa.

 

For exclusive use to the Tree House Villas guests, the resort will offer a Clubhouse with its own restaurant and bars. The beachfront Clubhouse will be situated alongside a series of cooling and reflective pools with the beach to one side and a natural waterfall to the other. The restaurant menu will offer selection of signature dishes created by the onsite chef using local ingredients ranging from traditional Thai cuisine to International dishes from the Mediterranean

Settled amongst one of the world’s most fascinating geological and ecological locations, the hotels offers an ideal hideaway. Mövenpick Resort Khao Yai will feature 114 rooms comprising of hotel suites, and two, three and four bed villas. The resort will feature a landmark European-inspired clubhouse encompassing an all-day dining restaurant, lobby bar, café, meeting space, swimming pool, fitness centre and spa. Incorporating elements from the surrounding natural beauty, the resort is set in a true Tuscan inspired house with a unique dining terrace featuring an organic menu from the resort’s very own farm.

Comprising of 54 pool villas and 42 suites, the new resort is designed to offer discerning leisure travellers and families a relaxing holiday on Thailand’s premier beach destination. The full service resort will offer exceptional food and beverage options, indulgent spa with eight treatment rooms, a fully equipped kid’s club, exclusive meeting room facilities, a library, multiple swimming pools and extensive lush tropical surroundings. Although peacefully secluded in lush surrounds, the five-star resort is just a few minutes’ walk from the centre of Hua Hin.

 

Along with accommodation renovations to the Fitness area, the Emerald Room and the Orchid Lounge will be unveiled in November 2018. This enhancement to the resort’s offering follows the launch of the new Ocean Rooms and Suites in January 2017, and is part of the resort-wide renovation plan which, after short period of closure from 1 May – 31 October 2018 and the same period in 2019, will see the resort relaunched into a new era of wellness.

 

Having had its private waterfall dinner named as one of the top three ‘Wow

Experiences’ by Kuoni’s 2018 Worldwide Trends Report, The Sarojin, Thailand’s luxurious 56-roomed boutique residence, has revealed the experiences most loved by guests. From private yacht charters around stunning islands and romantic dinners in unique locations to connecting with the local people

and engaging with Khao Lak’s children, The Sarojin has an experience sure to wow everyone.

·       Private Dining Beneath a Candlelit Jungle Waterfall

Also named one of the top three experiences for honeymooners in the world by Kuoni’s Honeymoon Trends Report 2017, The Sarojin’s private candlelit jungle waterfall dinner is exceptionally popular with couples. During the ultimate ‘Just for Two’ romantic dining experience, guests can enjoy sumptuous dishes of marinated Andaman prawns, roast duck in red curry, wok-fried Sirloin steak and

steamed white snapper in a secluded setting, by the side of a cascading jungle waterfall. The Private Jungle Waterfall Dinner is THB 24,000 net per couple (approx. £555)

 

·       Luxurious Private Charters around The Similan Islands

Exclusively available to The Sarojin’s guests, a private charter aboard The Lady Sarojin yacht is the perfect way to explore the nearby Similan Islands in style. A world-famous diving sanctuary, the Similan Islands National Marine Park’s renowned underwater beauty is easily accessible for swimmers, snorkellers and experienced divers from its white sand beaches and is sure to impress!

Private charters aboard The Lady Sarojin start from THB 61,700 (approx. £1,425).

 

·       Engaging with Khao Lak’s Most Vulnerable Children

The Street Food / Cook for Kids initiative is the experience for those wanting to engage with and support the local community. In collaboration with the Camillian Day Care Centre, The Sarojin offers guests the opportunity to cook Thai street food with the children of the centre, creating invaluable interactions that break down the barriers between cultures and languages. A truly unique experience, this initiative provides important social benefits for the children and creates cherished memories for the guests as well as a delicious lunch for all!

The Street Food / Cook for Kids" initiative costs THB 5,900 per person (approx. £137).

 

·       Glimpsing the Life of a Local

The Sarojin’s Glimpse of Local Life excursions are perfect for travellers looking for a cultural adventure. Led by local experts, the authentic experiences enable guests to explore Khao Lak and engage with its ways of life, while supporting the community and experiencing a day in the life of locals, such as fishermen and ethical elephant mahouts. Cycling through the old town of Takuapa, discovering its local markets, cafes and Buddhist traditions as they go, venturing through the rural scenery of Koh Kho Khao and cruising on a traditional Thai longtail boat through the jungle’s emerald waters, guests are sure to be wowed by these glimpses of Khao Lak life. Glimpse of Local Life excursions cost from TB 950 per person (approx. £22 per person).

 

·       Finding a Spiritual Wonder

Among The Sarojin’s cultural experiences, guests will find spiritual experiences they’ll never forget. From taking Alms offerings to local Buddhist monks and receiving a spiritual blessing of love to visiting the local temples, guests are sure to find the contemplative, spiritually rewarding experience they are looking for.

A sunrise Alms giving and Spiritual Blessing of Love costs THB 1,100 per person (approx. £26).

 

2017
 

The upscale boutique hotel is located on Sukhumvit Soi 20, the epicentre of Bangkok’s most dynamic tourism area, in a lively neighbourhood known for its fine restaurants and buzzing nightlife, as well as its upscale lifestyle malls, quality spas and green recreation spaces. The 50-room akyra Sukhumvit Bangkok will offer guests 30-60 square metre accommodations in style with incredible cityscape views, as well as units with floor-to-ceiling glass doors that slide open onto generous balconies. The design aesthetic will combine the simplicity of natural woods with accents of modern-retro chic displayed in everything from the furnishings to the artwork, featuring a range of stylish interior touches that create a distinctive identity whilst still retaining the charm of an intimate urban property.

A charming new vegetarian resort "Away Chiang Mai Thapae" opened its doors on 01 December 2017 featuring Moreganic, one of the cities most healthy restaurants serving a full vegetarian menu and no alcohol. The hotel is centrally located in Chiang Mai just moments from the famous Thapae Gate and a great choice of dining, nightlife and shopping. http://awayresorts.com/resorts/chiang-mai-thapae

 

Unique New Experience Puts Travellers in the Driver's Seat of Their Own Tuk Tuk to Explore Northern Thailand!

 

Diethelm Travel Group, an award-winning inbound tour operator servicing Asia, has unveiled brand new tours offering a classic Thai experience but with a unique twist - instead of being driven around, guests do the driving behind the wheel of their very own tuk tuk while discovering the rural outskirts of Chiang Mai, Thailand in 1-day, 5-day and 11-day tour programmes.

 

The first of its kind, the Northern Thailand Self-Drive Tuk Tuk Adventure experience takes travellers on an adventure of a lifetime driving the iconic three-wheeled rickshaws through the heart of northern Thailand's jungle-covered hills and glistening rice fields, complete with stops in rural villages and an ethical elephant home, a traditional Thai lunch and even bamboo river rafting.
 

Each tuk tuk holds up to three guests who can take turns driving, or simply enjoy the ride from the back seat. All drivers must be 18 years old or older and hold a valid manual driving licence from their home country. Once everyone has mastered the art of driving through a safety briefing and tuk tuk driving lesson,the journey begins in earnest with a convoy of tuk tuks following the lead guide along rustic roads, through farming villages and past traditional temples.

 

Travellers can also choose extended group programmes for 5 or even 11 days. In addition to visiting the elephants and driving around the outskirts of Chiang Mai, the 5-day Northern Thailand Self-Drive Tuk Tuk Adventure experience also takes travellers up to the top of Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest peak, with overnights in homestays and a day spent trekking. The 11-day Northern Thailand Self-Drive Tuk Tuk Adventure itinerary builds on the 5-day option giving travellers even more opportunities to drive through the mountainous north, plus plenty of time. to explore at leisure, lounge by hotel pools and spend time in the charming town of Pai for the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

 

"We're continually seeking out new and immersive experiences that showcase more authentic insights for curious travellers," said Oscar Lopera, Group Product and Contracting Director of Diethelm Travel. "With this in mind, we're proud to be the only tour operator offering this product. Not only are these self-drive tuk tuk adventures completely unique, it's also simply just fun - who ever thought they could visit Thailand and actually drive one of the country's famous tuk tuks?"

The latest addition to the stunning beachside bar at Four Seasons Koh Samui is a Rum Vault – Asia’s first and only library of rums from across the world. Drawing guests into the nefarious pirate-life, the prison door opens into a cosy room with a tasting table as its centrepiece, surrounded by a stellar collection of "imprisoned" rums from across the world. The Vault boasts an ever-growing list of cane spirits exclusive to Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui with dedicated rum flights where four select rums are paired with the best accompaniment.

 

Opening November 2017, Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit is located in downtown Sukhumvit in the new centre of Bangkok. Only 200 metres from Phrom Phong BTS SkyTrain station, it connects guests to the best shopping, dining and cultural hot spots in the capital.

 

Once owned by the heir of the Prince of Chiang Mai since the ancient kingdom of the Lanna period, the hotel is perfectly located at the corner of Loikoh and Changklan roads. The hotel will feature a Thai fusion restaurant, an all-day dining venue, wine bar, a variety of on-site shops, a wide range of wellness facilities, a spa, pool and fitness centre. It’s conveniently located in one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, overlooking the Night Bazaar district and a short walk to Chiang Mai Old City Wall and The Pae Gate.

The most hotly anticipated opening in Thailand this year, YTL Hotels is set to open the Ritz Carlton Koh Samui doors on 1stNovember 2017. The property is set to have a Spa Village, the concept made famous by YTL Hotels, as well as stunning F&B outlets and a total immersion into the Koh Samui way of life.

 

The luxury 5 Star resort, Le Menara opens its doors in November 2017. Situated in North Khao Lak about 10 minutes by courtesy shuttle bus to the centre of Khao Lak, this beachfront property offers Villas and rooms in a quiet setting. 

At an exquisite location along a 600-meter beachfront at Emerald Bay, Rosewood Phuket is a secluded beach hideaway akin to an ideal ocean village. Innovative architecture with subtle Thai influences blends organically into a lush tropical landscape, while sun-weathered shores and glistening, crystalline waters help celebrate luxury island living. Rosewood Phuket is scheduled to open its doors in the fourth quarter of 2017

 

The long anticipated launch of Centara’s newest brand, COSi Hotels, will take place in October 2017 with the opening of the 151 room COSI Samui Chaweng. COSI Hotels is an affordable lifestyle brand for the modern, tech savvy traveller. COSI Hotels will provide guests with an experience that’s reassuringly familiar yet distinguished by its location and local culture. Guests will always be connected as COSI Hotels will ensure that each guestroom is equipped with the necessary connections for guests to plug in their laptops, tablets, smartphones and more.

 

Inspired by verdant tropical nature, a shimmering ocean, and rich cultural heritage of the ancient Takola seaport, La Vela is anchored on Khao Lak’s most serene stretch of beach, appropriately named Bang Niang. The truth is Khao Lak has long been one of the loveliest barefoot beach escapes in the South of Thailand.

The SIS Kata Phuket opened its doors to the World in June 2017 with a dazzling party attended by celebrities, top tier bloggers, journalists and senior members of Asia travel industry. The inspiration of local Phuket hoteliers, the Pattraworanee Family and more specifically the three sisters after whom the Resort is named, the 124 room, 4.5 star ‘SIS Kata Phuket’ is the newest addition to the AKSARA COLLECTION group of hotels in Phuket.

 

With a commanding hillside position overlooking the blue waters of the Andaman Sea, ‘The SIS Kata Phuket’ offers a range of stylish accommodation boasting lush garden views, views over the 2 stunning swimming pools, sea facing rooms, as well as studios and 2 magnificent suites; some rooms even have ‘couples’ spa tubs on the balconies!

 

The atmosphere in the Resort is one of adult oriented ‘Casual Chic’. When not relaxing in their rooms or suites, guests have the choice of 3 stunning swimming pools with swim up bars and several stylish dining and refreshment options both in-doors and of course Al Fresco. For ultimate relaxation, ‘The SIS Kata Phuket’ also boasts a unique Spa venue accommodated within a Thai village styled thatched compound; the perfect place to have the stresses of everyday living kneaded away!

 

The brand new 137 Pillars Suites and Residences joins sister property 137 Pillars House in Chiang Mai to become the newest member of the SLH family in Bangkok. This distinctive hotel opened its doors in April and is located on Sukhumvit Soi 39, a trendy area of the city. Occupying the top level of this unique building, the hotel boasts Bangkok’s highest infinity-edged pool. The 34 suites are all styled to perfection, with traditionally-inspired furnishings with a cutting-edge twist and a jaw-dropping skyline view in every room, some with their own private bar. Guests at the hotel can enjoy a wide-range of personal services such as a meditation spa and wellness centre, gourmet dining, cocktails above the skyline at the rooftop Sky Bar, as well as a bespoke tour service to take in local landmarks such as the Grand Palace and reclining Buddha of Wat Pho in your transport of choice.

 

Opened this March, the newly built property features 158 serviced apartments and offers long-stay guests a choice of fully furnished studios, 1- and 2- bedroom apartments in Bangkok’s vibrant Ekkamai neighbourhood, an area known for its hip cafés, fine restaurants and boutique shopping options.

 

January 2017

Set in a small fishing community, akyra Beach Club Phuket is a blissful boutique retreat on the golden sands of Natai Beach. The 58 luxury suites and stand-alone villas are nestled among tropical gardens and feature floor to ceiling windows, naturally inspired furnishings with a contemporary touch and private terraces. At the heart of the resort is the integrated beach club offering guests a choice of refined dining options and an enticing beachfront pool. The Upper Deck restaurant serves gourmet international fare throughout the day, accompanied by stunning vistas. Guests can simply relax by the pool to the down tempo sounds of the resident DJ, take part in the daily yoga sessions on the beach or sip cocktails and eat fresh net-caught seafood. Those seeking more adventure can opt for surf lessons, scuba diving trips or the chance to swim with leopard sharks.

 

A brand new resort on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Andaman Sea, 90 minutes drive north of Phuket Airport, Merlin's newest gem is a contemporary style resort which lies directly on the stunning white sands of Bangsak, in the Phang Nga region just 90 minutes north of Phuket airport. With three signature lagoon pools and tropical gardens, Bangsak Merlin features unrivalled panoramic ocean vistas on a secluded location. Ideal fro couples and families alike, guests will enjoy generous accommodation with spacious balconies and leisure facilities including the Merlin Spa, spa pool and fitness centre. There is a good selection of food & beverage outlets with two restaurants and two bars; particularly recommended is the all-inclusive option.

 

The centre of Khao Lak with its local shops and bars can easily be reached by the free shuttle service and the town of Takuapa with its sino-portuguese buildings and low-key street market, is just 25 minutes away.
 

275 rooms, 3 swimming pools, two restaurants, deli shop, lobby lounge, Voyager lounge (games room and sports bar with billiard), swim-up bar, beach bar, fitness centre, spa and beauty salon, kids club and playground, and free shuttle to the centre of Khao Lak (twice a day, 25 minutes drive). Free wifi throughout the resort.

Situated on the unspoilt island of Koh Yao Noi in the middle of Phang Nga Bay, between Phuket and Krabi, Cape Kudu Hotel delivers cool coastal aesthetic and dramatic views of the Bay. The hotel features 55 luxurious rooms including 11 pool villas and a Robinson Crusoe suite, complemented by an array of facilities including three bars and dining options, a salt-water infinity pool and fully equipped gym. The interiors are all whitewashed wood, pale greys and blues, modern lanterns and wicker furnishings creating a fresh coastal vibe. The Hornbilll restaurant serves refined local and international cuisine in a relaxed environment, with a menu made up of ingredients grown on the on-site organic garden. From May 2017, the hotel will also begin welcoming guests to its indoor/outdoor spa, Cape Spa. There’s plenty to stay occupied from kayaking to snorkelling, or head to the buzzing night market in a vintage car or Vespa. To get to the hotel, guests will need to take a taxi to Bang Rong Pier from Phuket International Airport where they can relax in the Cape Kudu Hospitality lounge before boarding a speedboat to the island.