JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa has officially unveiled the new face of the resort, with 127 additional rooms and villas, and new dining, recreational, and event facilities to become a stunning 'destination within a destination'. Situated by the long stretch of soft sands of Khuk Khak Beach in Khao Lak, Phang Nga province, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa now features a total of 420 spacious rooms, suites, and villas, including new Lagoon Pool View Rooms, Deluxe Lagoon Pool Access Rooms, Family Pool Access Studios, One-Bedroom Villas and a Two-Bedroom Villa, plus the debut of JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort Suites, an exclusive collection of 52 stylish two-bedroom suites. More additions encompass the Aqua Play Zone with a wave pool, fountain trampoline, a big a waterslide and outdoor playground setting along the 2.4 km lagoon pool waterway, which is the longest in Southeast Asia; beachfront Drift Beach Bar & Grill serving heavenly Mediterranean cuisine and seafood grills; a brand-new beautiful ballroom that can accommodate up to 810 people, being the largest in southern Thailand; JW Garden, where organic fruits and vegetables are cultivated, welcoming guests to enjoy a family picnic amidst fragrant herbs and flowers; and more to come! "We are delighted to be unveiling the reimagined JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa today. There is high demand for fully-integrated, beachfront resort experiences in Thailand from around the world and we are positioned to deliver this across multiple segments and market sectors. I believe Khao Lak is ready and I believe the destination will become one of Thailand’s leading leisure tourism and MICE hubs in the years to come," said Abhimanyu Singh, General Manager, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa.  To find out more about experiences at JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa, please visit www.jwmarriottkhaolak.com

Meliá Phuket Mai Khao is one of Phuket’s beautiful places to stay, offering tranquility amidst a delightful design that blends effortlessly into the natural island surroundings.   SETTING THE SCENE As Mai Khao Beach is a protected area, crowds are not a thing here. Meliá Phuket Mai Khao is a tranquil getaway set amidst tropical island greenery offering wellness-inspired facilities and satisfying dining options. Whether you are at the lobby, in a spa treatment room or strolling along the walkways, you will enjoy spaciousness and be able to admire the tropical island greenery. To drench yourself in summertime delight, there are two good-sized swimming pools, one situated on the beachfront lawn with private pavilions dotted around. If you are fond of watching sunsets the poolside pavilions will become your very favourite spot, as you can overlook the sun setting over the sea from them. Another popular spot is the leafy lawn by the beach, where you can enjoy wellness-inspired activities such as yoga at dawn and unwinding in peace at dusk.   GETTING COMFORTABLE The beachfront resort comprises of 30 suites and 40 villas, all of which are remarkably spacious. In addition, 15 of the villas are wellness-oriented with compelling add-ons such as a vitamin-C shower, ultrasonic essential oil diffuser, GermGuardian air purifier, and Tempur-Pedic pillows. The interior design focuses on clean lines and mellow palettes with Mediterranean touches, and with the spacious bedroom and outdoor lounging area of my villa, I am ecstatic to have all these for my stay at Meliá Phuket Mai Khao.   DINING OPTIONS The culinary team here is led by Italian Chef Luca Mancini, who has lived in Thailand for over a decade. He knows Mediterranean and Thai flavours so well and has create a marvellous menu with both cuisines. All-day SASA serves up flavoursome Thai and international dishes in a gorgeous indoor setting, while alfresco GAIA Beach Club indulges playful souls with Mediterranean-inspired casual dining as well as tasty cocktails. Dishes here are mainly made with locally-sourced ingredients and there are also a number of healthful options available.   WHY I’D RETURN I find this resort offers the right balance between selfcare and having fun ─ I can opt for wellness activities all day long, and then unwind with a delicious, refreshing cocktail in hand by the pool followed by a good meal. In addition, there is something about the air here that makes me feel invigorated all day long.   ONE OR TWO QUIBBLES… As the resort places an emphasis on relaxation there is no work station in the guestrooms, and that may be a bit inconvenient for those who do need to spend some time doing work.   MELIÁ PHUKET MAI KHAO 233 Moo 3, Mai Khao, Thalang, 83110 Phuket T. +66 (0) 76 563 550 E. info@meliaphuketmaikhao.com W. www.melia.com/en/hotels/thailand/phuket/melia-phuket-mai-khao FB. @meliaphuketmaikhao     Text by Pakvipa Rimdusit

VLCC, the leader in wellness and beauty service provider, has arrived in Thailand to offer exceptional care in the premium beachfront setting of Avani+ Hua Hin Resort, with tailor-made programmes designed to meet individual needs and deliver quantifiable results provided by experienced medical practitioners. Each rejuvenating programme fuses modern medical testing and diagnostics with Ayurveda therapies to deliver first-rate holistic care. Medi-spa treatments include aesthetics and injectables including Botox, fillers, body contouring and skincare solutions along with custom blends of IV Therapy. The unique flexi-concept of VLCC at Avani+ Hua Hin allows you to dip in and out of their wellness programme, enjoy the facilities of the resort and welcome friends and family to stay and relax at the beach together. In addition to relaxing treatments, you may opt for multiple layered programmes that resolve long term chronic pain sufferers with a dynamic approach to pain management for overall wellness and long term musculoskeletal conditions that can be improved through anti-inflammatory treatments, the elimination of heavy metal residues as well as rehabilitation and physiotherapy sessions led by a team of highly trained experts. The medical team includes a specialist aesthetic and regenerative Doctor, expert physiotherapist, qualified nutritionist, trained medical nurse and Ayurvedic practitioner from India. Each programme is designed to nourish the body, mind and soul. Itineraries include recreation activities such as Zumba, nature walks, yoga and meditation sessions to complement traditional spa treatments and medical solutions. Another unique aspect of the offerings of VLCC at Avani+ Hua Hin includes Post-package Follow-up, Review and Consultation for up to 12 months. This consultation will be available at over 217 VLCC Wellness & Aesthetic Beauty Clinics in 11 countries. To find out more and to book, please visit www.avanihotels.com/en/hua-hin/wellness

For the first time in decades, Phuket's iconic heritage house, the 119-year-old 'Governor's Mansion', will welcome guests to experience the one-off palatial stay during this Songkran Festival. Situated in the heart on Phuket Old Town, the mansion was built by successful local businessman Pra Pitak Chinpracha, and has presently become the well-preserved architectural and cultural heritage of the province. Its second floor is turned into a stunning space by renowned Thai designer Saran Yen Panya in a way that pay homage to Thailand's rich heritage with a touch of modernity, featuring a number of statement pieces by talented designers. Not only a rare opportunity to revel in the original Sino-Portuguese baroque manor is offered, as guests will be hosted by famous Phuket-born model-actress Patricia Tanchanok Good, together with national ambassador for royal Thai cuisine and Blue Elephant founder, master chef Nooror Somany Steppe. Guests will be immersed in a quintessentially Phuketian experience, including: A personal welcome at check-in by Thai superstar Patricia ‘Good’ Tanchanok, who will share her favourite hidden gems in Phuket and tips for exploring the island Exclusive access to a two-bedroom suite on the Mansion’s expansive second floor, including a private reception lounge and living room A bespoke, multi-course ‘Songkran’ tasting menu prepared and hosted by master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe A scuba diving and snorkeling adventure around the sparkling reefs and islands that dot the Andaman Sea A gibbon rehabilitation social impact experience in Phuket’s last rainforest, Khao Pra Taew Wildlife Sanctuary A group of four lucky guests will get to soak up the vibrant festivities with an island getaway of a lifetime, only on Airbnb. The majestic Governor’s Mansion will be bookable on airbnb.com/governorsmansion for USD 50* (approx. THB 1,700) for a two-night stay from 15-17 April 2022. Bookings open at 8 AM ICT on 5 April 2022.   *Plus taxes and fees. This two-night stay is not a contest. Airbnb is closely monitoring Thailand infection rates and government policies and will offer booking guests a USD 1,000 Airbnb credit if it becomes necessary to cancel the stay.    

Award-winning oceanfront wellness destination Chiva-Som in Hua Hin invite you to revive your body and soul with the 'All-Inclusive Wellness Vacation', offering the chance to explore the benefits of its unique wellness philosophy, with a daily wellness treatment, healthy meals, up to a dozen group exercise classes a day, and full use of the resort’s world-class and extensive wellness facilities in a gorgeous setting with lush tropical garden and soothing sound of waves. Chiva-Som's wellness facilities are some of the most extensive and advanced in the world, with a health and wellness centre for spa and holistic treatments, water therapy suites, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, physiotherapy and fitness studios, and an aesthetics centre. Its wellness philosophy is all-encompassing, leading to complete and sustainable lifestyle transformations that result in enduring, long-term health benefits. The 'All-Inclusive Wellness Vacation' includes accommodation, three wellness meals and refreshments per night of stay, as well as complimentary access to group exercise and relaxation classes and use of the wellness facilities. Consultations with wellness advisors direct guests to the most beneficial wellness treatments to try, with a complimentary treatment per night included. Rates start from THB 12,500 net per person per night, with no minimum stay. Guests staying three nights or more also enjoy early check-in from 10:00 and a room upgrade subject to availability, and an additional THB 1,000 wellness credit per day. This offer is available to all residents of Thailand for stays until 31 st May 2022, and can be used in conjunction with Rao Tiew Duay Gan. For more information and reservations, please email reservations@chivasom.com or call +66 (0) 32 536 536.

Situated on the tranquil Mai Khao Beach in Phuket, wellness-inspired Meliá Phuket Mai Khao celebrates its opening with a tempting offer, inviting you to unwind in tranquility and experience the vibrance of Spanish hospitality. The spacious 30 suites and 70 villas at Meliá Phuket Mai Khao come with lighthearted Mediterranean accents that gorgeously blend into its lush surroundings, facilitated with large bedrooms, plunge pools and outdoor bathtubs to enhance indoor and outdoor living alike. At the top of the accommodation scale, the 15 wellness villas each feature an open-air Vitamin C shower, ultrasonic essential oil diffuser, GermGuardian air purifier, Tempur-Pedic pillows, aromatic salts for the outdoor bathtub, a fit ball and yoga mat. A highlight of staying at a wellness villa is a daily 60-minute massage. For gastronomic experiences, all-day-dining SASA serves international and Thai cuisine with healthy options, while Gaia Beach Club pampers your tongue with tasty Mediterranean cuisine and creative cocktails in a breezy alfresco setting. Meliá’s signature YHI Spa offers extensive menu of massages, facials, body scrubs and wraps, spa therapists also provide poolside and in-villa treatments. The resort also offer wellness packages that include healthy menus and freshly squeezed juices as well as activities such as meditation, yoga, and walks and cycling amid stunning natural scenery, at the side of more recreational activities. Meliá Phuket Mai Khao is offering up to 40% off the price of accommodation for direct bookings on www.melia.com by 31 March 2022 for stays until 31 October 2022. The offer includes a 20% discount on food and beverage as well as spa treatments. For more information, visit www.melia.com, contact +66 (0) 76 563 550 or info@meliaphuketmaikhao.com

Art-inspired The Slate Phuket is now offering a series of packages with privileges for you to unwind in the exquisite paradise with the world-class design of Bill Bensley and top-notch facilities. The Slate Stories – Book a stylish Pearl Bed Suite, D-Buk Family Suite or Private Pool Suite and enjoy comfortable airport transfers, daily breakfast, kids' and family activities, a 10% discount at KRU Precision Wellness and 20% off treatments at Coqoon Spa. Guests who stay for five nights will be treated to a three-course dinner at Black Ginger, the resort's Michelin certified Thai restaurant, and six-night stays will receive a free seventh night! Rates start from just THB 4,000++ per night. The Slate Design – Relax in a spacious One-Bedroom Suite or Two-Bedroom Pearl Shell Suite and receive a welcome bottle of bubbly, complimentary minibar items, roundtrip airport transfers, daily breakfast, kids' and family activities, a 10% discount at KRU Precision Wellness, a free 120-minute Coqoon Rebirth Massage for two people, and 20% off other treatments at Coqoon Spa. Guests who book a five-night stay will be rewarded with a three-course dinner at Black Ginger, and six-night stays will receive a free seventh night. Rates start from just THB 7,000++ per night. The Slate Sanctuaries – Reserve your spot at mesmerising Bensley Suite, One-Bedroom and Two-Bedroom Pool Villas, or Two-Bedroom Family Pool Villa and you will be pampered with privileges including daily afternoon tea and in-villa breakfast, a bottle of bubbly, the chef's curated arrival treats, packing and unpacking services, complimentary minibar items, free laundry, roundtrip airport transfers, kids' and family activities, a 'Meet the Chef' experience, private Muay Thai or Pilates classes, a 10% discount at KRU Precision Wellness, a 120-minute Coqoon Rebirth Massage for two people, and 20% of other treatments at Coqoon Spa. Guests who book a five-night stay will receive a three-course dinner at Black Ginger, and those staying for seven nights will be treated to a barbecue dinner in the privacy of their villa! Rates start from just THB 13,000++ per night. The Slate has been awarded the Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA) Plus Certificate by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) for its high standards of safety measures. The packages are available to book from now until 30 April 2022 at www.theslatephuket.com/offers. The Slate has been awarded the Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA) Plus Certificate by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Tranquil beach in the front, majestic Naga Crest Hill in the back, when Banyan Tree Krabi’s superior location meets the resort’s first-rate facilities and stellarly blend-into-nature design, days at Banyan Tree Krabi is purely paradisiacal.   SETTING THE SCENE To relate with its marvelous surroundings, Banyan Tree Krabi infuses the story of Naga, the mythological sea creature that is believed to once inhabited in the Naga Crest Hill, into its concept, making water, nature, and Naga-inspired designs the predominant parts of the theme.   GETTING COMFORTABLE Comprising 72 exquisite pool villas and pool suites, all of which overlook the western horizon, you are sure to always have the best view, especially when the sun sets over scattered karsts. Their interiors are painted with lighthearted palette of light woods, light marble, and white, with vast spaces and modern facilities to ensure your ultimate comfort. Besides, you can be pampered by Banyan Tree’s signature scents in room whenever you want to.   DINING OPTIONS All-day-dining The Naga Kitchen offers a mouth-watering array of international breakfast buffet and a-la-carte selections in a beautiful setting. Krabi’s famous bites like roti and other Southern-style foods are also featured in the choices, and they are delicious. Up on the hill sits Saffron, Banyan Tree’s award-winning Thai restaurant, serving traditional cuisine with a creative twist created by adroit chefs who has obtained great knowledge in Southern-style dishes. For a more romantic dinner, you may savour dishes at the seaside “Bird’s Nest” tables. Beachfront Kredkaew Bar is a cosy spot to savour tasty tapas along with reinvigorating drinks.   WHY I’D RETURN With a number of natural attractions in the vicinity, Banyan Tree Krabi would be a nice base for my future exploration. In addition, the suite and spacious beachfront lounging areas are so soul-rejuvenating that I wish I had spent a lot more days unwinding here.     BANYAN TREE KRABI 279 Moo 3, Nongtalay, Muang, 81180 Krabi T: +66 (0) 75 811 888 E: Reservations-Krabi@banyantree.com W: www.banyantree.com/en/thailand/krabi FB: @banyantreekrabi   Text by Pakvipa Rimdusit

Utopia Corporation (UCORP), one of Phuket's leading real estate developers, led by Mr. Hachi Yin, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Utopia Corporation, and Ms. Nalina Suranakarin, Chief Brand Officer, Utopia Corporation, recently launched Utopia Hospitality Group (UHG), a new flagship hospitality management company under UCORP. Being a dynamic new player in the Asia-Pacific hotel sector, the UHG comes with a vision to create daring concepts and lifestyle experiences that transform the world of hospitality, provide flexibility and openness to create a level playing field in the post-pandemic era for hoteliers. They will benefit from multiple levels of expertise from management and marketing services to property technologies from UHG. Under the umbrella of UHG, prominent lifestyle hotel and resort brands will offer new travel experiences that meet the needs of smart and savvy travelers in the new era through three brand categories: the Midscale Aparthotel Brand merges the modern lifestyle and sense of belonging to a community with the comfort and flexibility of an apartment to meet the needs of a new generation of smart travelers with the motto 'Live Your Own Way'; the Upscale Lifestyle Resort Brand is a 5-star resort brand that occupies the space between lifestyle resort and wellbeing retreat, all in accordance with the slogan 'Live Slow, Play Well'; and the Ultra-Luxury Brand, in collaboration with Tonino Lamborghini, the legendary luxury brand from Italy that epitomizes refined luxury products and designs. The Tonino Lamborghini Boutique Hotel Phuket will be the first hotel under this brand in Thailand, set to welcome guests in 2025. UHG’s plan also includes the creation of two immense landmarks located in the northern and southern regions of Phuket including Bay of Icon, which will be a new destination for high-end global investors and travelers, and the Utopia Dream, a mixed-use development with a low-rise condominium to be constructed in Nai Harn. UHG commemorated its launch with a mini gala dinner at​ Blue by Alain Ducasse, who’s the current living chef with the most Michelin stars in the world.