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JW Marriott redefines luxury in Khao Lak

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JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa is embarking on a new era of luxury hospitality in southern Thailand, as it unveils a newly transformed five-star beachfront retreat.

The resort has been reimagined with new activities, experiences, restaurants, bars, and accommodation, with a vision to become a “destination within a destination”.

An hour’s drive north of Phuket, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa has revealed a significant extension: 76 Deluxe Lagoon Pool View Rooms, 28 Deluxe Lagoon Pool Access Rooms, 20 Family Pool Access Studios, two One-Bedroom Villas and a Two-Bedroom Villa.

With seamless, naturally lit living spaces, lush gardens and a private pool, the 140-square metre Two-Bedroom Villa will be a heavenly hideaway for families, friends, couples and honeymooners seeking a private space to unwind together.

The new accommodation is complemented by fresh facilities, including a pool, which at 2.4km, is the longest in Southeast Asia. With water slides, wave pools and a fountain trampoline, there are water features for all ages.

With 11 dining and social venues, the resort is a culinary destination in its own right. This portfolio of restaurants now includes DRIFT Beach Bar & Grill.

With a fitness centre, water sports, cultural classes, and the serene Quan Spa the resort offers leisure facilities to suit everyone. The kids’ club offers an array of entertaining and educational activities, inspired by southern Thai culture and offshore excursions to the idyllic Similan and Surin islands provide an opportunity for guests to experience some of the best snorkelling spots in Thailand.

The recent renovation has also created an outstanding new option for the MICE sector with a brand-new JW Grand Ballroom that can host up to 800 guests for corporate conferences, special events, and one-of-a-kind weddings.

JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa will soon be complemented by a sister property, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort Suites: 52 two-bedroom suites, which will add another element of spacious and flexible accommodation to this ever-evolving destination.

More information HERE.

Update 23 September 2022

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Sawasdee ka everyone…

What is happening in TAT? 

  • Our new Director, Mrs. Busakorn Prommanot, also known as Khun Apple, has finally arrived in Sydney last week having gone through a lengthy Australian visa processing. If you’d like to meet with her or give her a warm welcome, please reach out to Busakorn Prommanotdirector@thailand.net.au.
  • TAT will release The MICHELIN Guide Thailand at the end of this year. For 2023, The MICHELIN Guide Thailand will feature for the first time Northeast Thailand or Isan – to be represented by the four key cities of Nakhon Ratchasima, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, and Khon Kaen – in addition to Bangkok, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Phang-nga. These four cities have been selected to represent the Northeast region’s distinctive and flavourful cuisine, as well as its remarkable natural and cultural heritage.

Destination Highlight: Kamala Beach, Phuket

First thing that comes to mind when we talk about Kamala Beach would be the ultra-luxury resorts. That’s how this beach got its nickname, the Millionaire’s Mile. Kamala Beach is a tranquil beach on the west coast of Phuket, popular with families and travellers who prefer a quiet holiday. Kamala’s location is perfect, only 6km north of the busy and action packed Patong and just south of Laem Singh beach. Kamala was originally a small fishing village, with the local population being mainly Muslim. Over the years Kamala has also become a popular destination for retirees and long-term visitors that stay in the small hotels, villas, and apartment rentals.

The fishing village atmosphere remains, and it’s not unusual to see local fishermen casting their nets. Until recently the nightlife at Kamala was rather laidback with a few reggae bars and restaurants, however with the opening of Café Del Mar Beach Club and HQ Phuket Beach lounge the nightlife here has certainly ramped up. 

Product Highlight: Andara Resort & Villas Phuket

One of Phuket’s beloved resorts keeps guests returning year after year for a reason. This lavish, spacious hideaway is situated on the west coast of the island in Kamala Bay. Offering a collection of oversized one to four-bedroom suites, most with private pools and ultra-luxe 3 -6-bedroom pool villas complete with your own private chef and villa attendant. We recommend taking advantage of the multi-bedroom suites and bringing your besties along for a stay in the popular pool suite, with 200-400 sq. metres of privacy including a spacious indoor lounge/dining room area. You want to make sure you don’t miss the daily poolside cocktail specials at the main resort pool, and bespoke wellness treatments at Andara Spa. The resort even has its own yacht, The Celebrity, ready for private charters in the beautiful Andaman Sea. If you want to know more, check out Andara Resort Video.

Kind Regards,

TAT Oceania

InterContinental Khao Yai Resort evokes the golden age of train travel

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The InterContinental Khao Yai Resort has opened its doors, welcoming guests to explore the golden age of train travel.

To celebrate the opening, the resort has curated a wide range of enriching experiences and outdoor adventures designed to uncover the secrets of the destination.

Transported Back in Time

The resort was designed by award-winning designer Bill Bensley, who was inspired by the region’s history as gateway for rail transportation to Northeast Thailand during King Rama V’s reign. On arrival, guests are ushered to a check-in area styled like a ticket counter, where a stationmaster bell rings to welcome them and they are served a glass of yellow dragon fruit juice, a fruit the area is famous for.

Adorned with railway memorabilia – from vintage trunks to old tickets – the arrival area sets the stage for the rest of the stay, and each of the 45 rooms in the main buildings is adorned with wall hangings inspired by the vintage railway signs that once hung in train stations around the province.

Curated Experiences

Developed exclusively for Intercontinental guests, the resort offers a series of curated adventures through Khao Yai’s lush mountains and landscapes. Highlights include Welcome to Khao Yai, visiting to Baan Sa Nam Sai, one of the oldest communities in the area, Khao Yai Life & Legends, a chance to experience the traditional way of life here, visiting the Tha Maprang community, or the ‘Tour de Khao Yai,’ cycling around the resort and its surrounds.

Experience-Led Dining

With a focus on culinary expertise and the use of locally sourced, organic produce, the resort offers an eclectic selection of authentic culinary experiences. Somying’s Kitchen is a farm-to-table concept; with most ingredients sourced from the hotel’s own organic farm, whilst local farmers will also contribute to the pantry. Tea Carriage, set in a heritage railcar, offers a formal afternoon tea set with optional Champagne, rosé or sparkling wine pairings, as well as a selection of Signature Iced Coffees and Teas.

Transformative Wellbeing

Complimentary stretching, Hatha Yoga & Pilates group classes are on offer, whilst a Resident Healer will guide guests through their personal wellness journeys. A Cross-Fit-inspired fitness centre overlooks views of Swan Lake and a series of jogging and cycling tracks wind through the resort.

A Commitment to Sustainable Stays

Sustainability has remained a key priority since the construction stage of InterContinental Khao Yai Resort; Bill Bensley and his design team made use of locally sourced materials and upcycled train carriages in the resort design, in line with BENSLEY’s pledge to create sustainable hotel design solutions.

In line with IHG’s commitment to reduce plastic waste by removing bathroom miniatures, InterContinental Khao Yai Resort is one of the first in Thailand to introduce European luxury brand Byredo in a full-size format. Wooden keycards and biodegradable eco-friendly cleaning products will be used across the resort, whilst the culinary team work closely with farms in the region to source seasonal ingredients and minimise food waste.

Later this year, a French brasserie and speakeasy bar will be added to the selection of dining offerings, with a spa and the brand’s signature Planet Trekkers programme further enhancing the guest experience. A range of 19 railcar suites and villas will also be unveiled.

More information HERE.

Update 9 September 2022

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Sawasdee ka.

Did you know that yesterday was R U OK day? A day when we are reminded to start a meaningful conversation whenever you spot the signs that someone you care about might be struggling with life. Everyone (including children) can have these R U OK conversations; you don’t need any qualification. Listening and giving someone your time might just be what they need to help them through. Hope we all can be aware and do our part.

Destination Highlight – Pattaya

We’ve covered Pattaya previously, but since our recent trip is still fresh in mind, we’d like to cover some attractions that will give you reasons to (re)visit Pattaya.

Have you been to Sanctuary of Truth? It is not a temple; the place is best described as a visionary environment: part art installation, religious shrine, and cultural monument. It is made entirely of wood (no metal nails) and commanding celestial view of the ocean. To me personally, the place gave a sort of calming energy. What’s incredible are the stories and teachings that make you reflect – thus the name of the place, Sanctuary of Truth.

How about Nong Nooch Garden? It is one of the largest botanical gardens we’ve been. If you are into gardening, you will be blown away with the variety of plantations they house. Their Dinosaur Valley would drop your jaw even if you’re not a dinosaur enthusiast. More than 100 species of dinosaurs were moulded to excite tourists; the place will certainly take you back in time. 

Product Highlight – Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya

Seeking a top-notch summer / family holiday? 

  • Beachfront
  • Amazing waterpark
  • Family luxury hotel
  • Family club lounge
  • Outdoor play area that features three-level playground  (slides, trampoline, raft game, playground tower, and a digging pit.)
  • Indoor play area features arts and craft, junior cooking class.
  • The Lost World Adventure Land was just launched August 2022; you can zipline and navigate your way across a choice of two obstacle courses in the sky.

I’d say a family could easily spend a week within the property without needing to go outside. They are an absolute entertainment centre for those who love enjoying the sun, water, soft adventure, with lots of fun family activities to be had. Certainly, is one of our top household’s favourites. 

Have a good weekend everyone.

Update 26 August 2022

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Hi everyone!

Hope you are all keeping well. 

What is happening in TAT? 

·         TAT Governor, Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn announced that he wanted to drive Thailand towards experience-based and sustainable tourism at the annual TAT Action Plan 2023 conference. “TAT is committed to help revitalise and transform Thai tourism under our three strategic objectives, which are: to drive demand for meaningful travel, to shape supply by developing a new tourism ecosystem, and to thrive for excellence by making the TAT a data-driven organisation. We believe this will heighten our goal for Thailand to achieve high value and sustainable tourism growth.” Sustainable, Responsible, Digital, and Inclusive – these four words are key to TAT Strategic Direction for 2023.

·         TAT will continue to use the “Visit Thailand Year 2022-23: Amazing New Chapters” as the communication strategies for international market.

·         For 2023, TAT expects Thailand to generate about 80% of Thailand’s tourism performance in 2019.

Destination Highlight – Choengmon Beach, Samui

Travellers visit Samui, not only for its array of beautiful beaches, but also for the eclectic culture. From the quaint Fisherman’s Village to the tranquillity of the Big Buddha, you can really gain a wider perspective of this island and Thai culture in general. While Chaweng Beach is the largest and most populated beach on the island, we’d like to steer your attention to Choengmon Beach not far away. Why this beach, you may ask. The sand on Choengmon is soft, white, and sugary. It is only minutes’ walk to the village on the high street, you can buy anything you need or have forgotten – total convenience. Spending time on Choengmon beach feels like you know a really good secret. It feels very tucked away. There’s fine dining at both ends of the beach, and casual breakfast and lunches in between. You can eat every meal with your feet in the sand. It is a small bay with coves and inlets and just offshore there is another island called Koh Farn Noi, which is easily accessible by kayak from the main beach. 

Product Highlight – Melia Koh Samui

If you’ve been craving to return to Samui, you need to check out this new resort. This idyllic beachfront retreat is located on the pristine Choeng Mon Beach overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. It’s only 9 mins drive from the hustle and bustle of Chaweng Beach. We recommend paying a little extra for Premium Pool Access Room, with direct access to the loop pool.  What’s interesting with their offering is their Boat Suites. Made from real repurposed traditional Thai Chinese boat vessels, it’s a perfect marriage of Thailand’s rich maritime heritage with sleek modern design and makes for a sweet honeymoon stay too. The suite pans two floors with the bedroom on the upper deck, and the bathroom and dressing room on the lower deck. It also has direct pool access. There is something very intimate about these suites, despite still being near to all the facilities.

Have a good day and weekend. 

Kind Regards,

TAT Australia

Andamanda: new water park opens in Phuket

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New Phuket water park Andamanda offers a wide range of rides, slides, attractions, and activities, all interwoven with Thai culture, legend and mythology.

Andamanda Phuket is a brand-new water park and leisure complex that will immerse visitors in a world of Thai mythology and legend, while enjoying the thrill of several exciting waterslides. It is located in the Kathu district of Phuket, between the main tourism hubs of Phuket Town and Patong Beach.

Andamanda is the largest leisure and entertainment facility in Phuket, covering 9.3 hectares of land, comprising a wide range of recreational components, including a Thai heritage-themed water park with five separate zones, (Coral World, The Pearl Palace, Emerald Forest, Great Andaman Bay and Naga Jungle) and two dining areas (The Village and Tropical Beach) – plus extensive entertainment spaces and retail outlets.

The complex includes a collection of thrilling slides and rides designed by WhiteWater West, who have worked with global theme parks such as Atlantis Dubai and Disney. Guests can float down a 550-metre-long lazy river, the longest in Asia, and splash in a vast 10,000 square-metre wave pool that will generate waves up to three-metres high – the highest of any pool in Thailand. Andamanda offers cozy cabanas and VIP pavilions throughout the park, tropical beachfront restaurants, and a series of stunning swim-up bars – including one nestled in a near-life-size replica of Koh Tapu, Thailand’s famous “James Bond Island” – allowing visitors to chill out in style.

What sets Andamanda apart, is its focus on Thai culture and mythology. The park will immerse guests in the legend of “The Lost Kingdom of the Nagon”, an inspirational folk tale set amid the landscapes and seascapes of the Andaman coast. There is a floating market with traditional boats, local arts & crafts, authentic food & beverage outlets, and a stage for cultural performances.

Sustainability is at the core of this development. Andamanda will adopt a circular approach to water management, with a continuous loop of water being reused and recycled. Single-use plastics are prohibited, over 100,000 trees have been planted and solar energy is used to power the complex.

To celebrate the return of international guests, Andamanda Phuket has unveiled its early bird ticket prices. For adults, the “Adventure Explorer” ticket is priced at just THB 850 (AUD 34) – down from the standard price of THB 1500 (AUD 60), while children below 122cm in height can enjoy the “Mini Explorer” price of just THB 550 (AUD 22) – down from THB 1000 (AUD 40). Children under 90cm tall enter for free. Andamanda Phuket is open daily from 10am to 7pm.

To book your tickets visit andamandaphuket.com

137 Pillars support Elephant Nature Park

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This year’s World Elephant Day on 12 August marked the first anniversary of 137 Pillars Hotels & Resorts Thailand’s CSR partnership with the Elephant Nature Park (ENP) in Chiang Mai. This long-term collaboration raises much-needed funds and global awareness for elephant conservation and reforestation in Thailand.

137 Pillars’ Anne Arrowsmith (front) with Khun Lek, riding through Elephant Nature Park.

Since the start of the campaign in 2021, donations from guests staying at both 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok and 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai, personal and online donations through the online spot fund donation platform total over THB 1 million (approx. USD43,388)

Elephant Nature Park is a rescue and rehabilitation sanctuary and was founded by Ms. Sangduen Chailert (Khun Lek) in 1996. Providing a safe place for over 100 elephants from all over Thailand, the centre is also a sanctuary for rescued dogs, cats, buffaloes and many other abandoned and abused animals.

The hotel partnership came about when Anne Arrowsmith, General Manager of 137 Pillars House was asked to showcase some of the unique aspects of Chiang Mai for a Thailand segment on The Today Show, a popular US TV program. Anne chose ENP because of its authentic ethos including their policy of non-riding of elephants. It turned out to be a deeply spiritual and meaningful experience as Anne spent the day interacting with many of the elephants and learning the needs, complexities and challenges faced by ENP during her interview of K. Lek for the programme.  

In order to share this experience with hotel guests and to create a long-term partnership with the sanctuary to raise much needed money to support the work that Khun Lek and her team do on a daily basis, 137 Pillars Hotels & Resorts offers guests at its hotels in Chiang Mai and Bangkok an option to donate to ENP on check-in with a nominal amount of THB 100 (USD 3.00), THB 300 (USD 9.00) or THB 700 (USD 20.00) per night. A larger one-off donation can also be made.  90 per cent of donations go to elephant conservation and 10% to reforestation. ENP sends a receipt and certificate to each donor.

According to Khun Lek; “Although the pandemic has had a devastating impact on elephants and people alike, it has also caused many elephant camp owners to re-think the current unethical programs they offer for tourists.

“My team and I work tirelessly to ensure that this will be a catalyst for positive change throughout the country. Many of the camps we have supported during the crisis through our elephant food bank campaign have now agreed to remove the saddles from the elephant’s back and move towards a more caring approach with our support.”

Download this Fact Sheet to learn more about these magnificent animals and the work done by Khun Lek and her team at ENP.

Discover more ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand here.

Update 12 August 2022

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Sawasdee ka everyone!

How are you? 

I am sure by now you have all experienced travel whether domestic or international. It’s a bit messy, isn’t it? From flight delays, cancellations, frustrated customer complaints, to dealing with insurance companies.

These are testament that our industry still needs the time to recover. Collaboration is certainly key at this point. It is so important to address customers’ issues with clarity and logic reasonings, therefore setting their expectations right. I know it’s easier said than done, but TOGETHER we will get there.  

What is happening in TAT Australia office? 

We are excited to introduce our new Director, Mrs. Busakorn Prommanot. Her friendly nickname is Khun Apple.

Having worked in TAT for over 30 years, her wealth of experience is astounding, from policy and planning, training, to Europe Africa and Middle East market divisions. Australia will be her second overseas posting; she has led TAT Jakarta office previously. When asked about her favourite destination, Khun Apple has a soft spot on Northern regions of Thailand. Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Nan have such rich culture, untouched nature, and beautiful distinctive food. For Oceania market, Khun Apple desire to interest Aussie and Kiwi travellers in meaningful and purposeful travels to Thailand. “I look forward to collaborate with our travel partners soon to make this a reality.”

Destination Highlight: Bangtao Beach, Phuket

You don’t hear much about this beach, but it is one of Phuket’s longest beaches (spanning 6km in length). Bangtao is about 30 minutes’ drive south of Phuket International Airport. A little closer than the popular beaches like Kamala, Patong, Karon or Kata Beach. Hotels mostly occupy its southern end, while the northern end is generally quite and peaceful. A few small beach bars are dotted along its length. Bangtao Beach attracts those looking to leave everything behind and do nothing more taxing than reading a book. The southern end of the beach though has several beachfront hotels and beach clubs, resulting in a lively atmosphere in the evening. Bangtao remains one of the most family-friendly beaches in Phuket.

Product Highlight: Sunwing Bangtao Beach (4*)

Such an easy family holiday accommodation with good entertainment program for all family members. If you seek a relaxing holiday on a beachfront,Sunwing Bangtao might be your answer. They offer various little touches to ease the pressure of traveling with little ones and they are reasonably priced. All rooms can take a minimum of 2A2C. These are separate beds for all in the room, and there’s even room for an additional cot if required. What’s amazing is their specially designed Happy Baby Studios for those with a new addition. The rooms are always at ground level with an enclosed terrace with a gate that can be locked. This room type is specially equipped with baby cot, baby highchair, stroller, nursing mat, baby resting chair, bumbo babysitter, children’s crockery and cutlery, baby bathtub, non-slippery bathmat, stool in bathroom, plastic potty, safety drawer locks and sunbeds & parasol at the gated garden terrace.

Enjoy your Friday and weekend! 

Regards,

TAT Australia

TAT plant 1000 trees for koalas on National Tree Day

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This National Tree Day, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) joined forces with the Koala Clancy Foundation to plant 1000 trees, helping to restore vital koala habitat in regional Victoria.

Team Thailand, comprising members of the TAT Sydney office and the Royal Thai Embassy, including the honourable Ms Busadee Santipitaks, Ambassador to Australia, were joined at the Mt Rothwell site by Councillors from the City of Greater Geelong: Cr Belinda Moloney, Cr Ron Nelson and Cr Anthony Aitken, and a large group of enthusiastic volunteers.

According to Ambassador Ms Busadee Santipitaks; “It was wonderful to see how passionate and dedicated Janine Duffy, President of the Koala Clancy Foundation has been to protect and create a habitat for koalas.

“Equally impressive is Mr Michael Smith, the owner of the land provided for this tree planting, and I truly appreciate their hosting us at their shed (and distillery).”

Trees were planted on the property of Smith, who has offered up his land at Mt Rothwell to be revegetated by the Foundation to help create more koala-friendly habitat. Mr Smith hosted the group for morning tea and lunch in his converted sheep shearing shed, now a boutique gin distillery.

The ambassador explained that the event resonates with Thailand’s continuing efforts to restore elephant rainforest habitat in Thailand. Furthermore, the latest efforts to offset carbon emissions is the Bangkok governor’s campaign to plant one million trees in Bangkok during the next four years.

TAT Director Suladda Sarutilavan expanded on Thailand’s sustainability goals, explaining the Kingdom’s Bio-Circular-Green economy model, and what that means for the future of tourism in Thailand, with initiatives to support the development of more sustainable hotels, conscious dining, and community-based tourism.

TAT recently launched the 7 Greens campaign: Green Heart, Green Logistics, Green Attraction, Green Activity, Green Community, Green Service, Green Plus which encourages resorts and tourism operators to adopt, step by step, more sustainable strategies for the future.

Event sponsor Minor Hotels group have long embraced these ideals, pioneering efforts in Thailand to establish elephant sanctuaries through Anantara’s Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation, and shared their vision with volunteers on the day.

The Koala Clancy Foundation plants trees for koalas on farms and private land, creates new habitat and advocates for better protection of wild koalas. Today, volunteers planted 1000 trees, helping the foundation reach its 2022 target to plant 26,000  trees in Victoria’s You Yangs region.

Founder and president Janine Duffy thanked TAT for the opportunity to share the foundation’s ambitions.

“I am incredibly proud to talk about our You Yangs koalas with decision makers from the local area and abroad, and to hope that these great people can keep the needs of our precious koalas in their minds.” Volunteers were rewarded for their efforts with a delicious Thai lunch followed by a koala-spotting walking tour of the You Yangs, where they were delighted to encounter a koala in the treetops, for many in the group, the first time they had seen a koala in the wild.