Showing posts with label Thailand. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Thailand. Show all posts
Thursday, July 30, 2026
Thailand Advances US$334m Koh Samui Cruise Terminal Plan
The Transport Ministry is seeking approvals for a public-private partnership cruise terminal on Koh Samui, with operations targeted for 2032.
BANGKOK — Thailand’s Transport Ministry is advancing plans for a 12.17-billion-baht cruise terminal on Koh Samui, equivalent to approximately US$334 million, aimed at supporting large cruise ships and expanding the country’s cruise tourism capacity.
Sunday, July 12, 2026
Best Western has Bangkok covered: Different Hotels for Different Travellers
From youthful city stays and neighbourhood hideaways to airport stopovers, conference venues and upscale accommodation, Best Western’s diverse Bangkok portfolio matches distinct hotel brands with the travellers and locations they serve best.
The BWH Hotels Bangkok portfolio shows how location, brand identity and price point can be used to serve markedly different travellers within one sprawling metropolis. Rather than competing for precisely the same guests, its properties range from compact neighbourhood hotels and youthful lifestyle accommodation to airport stopovers, large conference venues and upscale international hotels.
The BWH Hotels Bangkok portfolio shows how location, brand identity and price point can be used to serve markedly different travellers within one sprawling metropolis. Rather than competing for precisely the same guests, its properties range from compact neighbourhood hotels and youthful lifestyle accommodation to airport stopovers, large conference venues and upscale international hotels.
Thursday, June 4, 2026
Thailand Pride Month 2026: Best LGBTQIA+ Events, Destinations and Travel Experiences
Thailand is reinforcing its position as one of Asia's leading LGBTQIA+ travel destinations as Pride Month celebrations take place across Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Ko Samui and Chiang Mai. Following the introduction of the country's landmark Marriage Equality Act, Thailand continues to attract travellers seeking inclusive experiences, vibrant cultural events and welcoming hospitality.
Tuesday, April 21, 2026
Why Sathorn Is One of Bangkok's Best Districts for Visitors — and Where to Stay
What Is Sathorn, Bangkok?
When travellers search for the best areas to stay in Bangkok, Sathorn consistently ranks among the top choices — and for good reason. Sathorn is one of Bangkok's most dynamic districts, offering a mix of cultural landmarks, art spaces, lush green parks, vibrant nightlife, and fine dining experiences. While it's well known as a financial hub, the district rewards visitors with far more than boardrooms and embassies.
Thursday, March 19, 2026
Banyan Tree Samui Wins “Best Spa Resort – Thailand” at Global Spa Awards
Banyan Tree Spa Samui has been named “Best Spa Resort – Thailand” at the Global Spa Awards 2026, presented by UK-based wellness publication The Luxury Spa Edit.
Thursday, March 6, 2025
Meliá Pattaya Hotel Opens in Tribute to History and Culture
Meliá Pattaya Hotel, a 234-room hotel celebrating Pattaya's diverse culture, opened on February 14. Located on Second Road in Pattaya, the hotel is a short drive from Bangkok and offers stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand.
Monday, June 12, 2023
Thailand: on the rebound
The Kingdom of Thailand is determined to recover its tourism industry despite financial handicaps. Roderick Eime reports from Bangkok’s Thai Travel Mart
Against an optimistic backdrop, the opening speech from Mr Tanes Petsuwan, Deputy Governor for International Marketing - Asia and the South Pacific, trumpeted Tourism Thailand’s (TAT) renewed effort to regain its enviable pre-pandemic (2019) international arrival figures of 40 million annually.
Thursday, June 1, 2023
Thursday, May 11, 2023
INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit To Debut This Summer
Thailand's first INNSiDE hotel breaks new ground with design inspired by famous Bangkok landmarks
Thailand will soon open the doors of its first INNSiDE hotel, a design marvel that "challenges convention" with a sky-high transparent infinity pool, integrated co-working spaces and authentic Spanish tapas bar.
Monday, January 23, 2023
Pimalai Resort & Spa: Elegance and seclusion on Koh Lanta

Like most places in Thailand, you can find accommodation at every price point, but here on Koh Lanta, tucked away inside the jungle, are some genuinely outstanding resorts.
Monday, November 7, 2022
Pimalai to highlight Mangrove Adventures
Pimalai Resort & Spa in Thailand is highlighting the crucial existence of mangrove swamps in filtering and purifying water and providing essential nutrients, taking guests into one of these fascinating settings.
Saturday, August 20, 2022
Furama Hotels: Location, Location, Location
Furama is not a brand particularly well known to Australian and New Zealand visitors to Southeast Asia. Still, the joint Thai-Singaporean company has quite a presence with some 40 properties owned or under management around the globe.
Wednesday, May 20, 2020
200 Baby Turtles Born at Banyan Tree Samui
Thai resort nurses green turtles to life
The birth of some 200 green turtles has brought a moment of joy to the staff at one of Thailand’s top hotels.
Between April 4 and 24, three nests hatched on the secluded beach at Banyan Tree Samui resort, and a total of 200 baby turtles emerged under the watchful gaze of the hotel’s resident marine biologist, Thepsuda Loyjiw.
![]() |
| Banyan Tree Samui's CSR team had erected a fence around the turtle nests to protect the eggs from predators. |
“It was heartwarming to watch the baby turtles being born, and then scurrying to the sea,” said Loyjiw. “Ever since the mother turtle laid her eggs on our beach, we have been protecting them from predators such as birds and monitor lizards, and gauging the temperature of the eggs to make sure the hatchlings would be given every chance of survival.”
It appears that this mother turtle was in luck, because not only does Banyan Tree Samui employ a sustainability team headed by a marine biologist, but the 5-star hotel was singled out last year by global watchdog EarthCheck as meeting the highest standards for environmentalism in the country.
Banyan Tree Samui is located at the southeastern tip of Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand. The resort’s beach is sheltered in a cove, flanked by coral reefs, and isolated from the busy public beaches of Chaweng and Lamai.
When fully grown, green sea turtles generally weigh between 110 and 180 kg and measure about one meter in length. It is rare in Thailand for a giant green turtle (Chelonia mydas) to lay eggs so close to a tourist area; most seek out deserted bays in the Andaman Sea to make nests. However, since the onset of Covid-19, hotels on Koh Samui have been ordered to close, bringing the popular tropical island to a standstill.
Several recent news reports have noted that marine life and wildlife have regenerated on many of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations since the coronavirus crisis began. Nests of rare leatherback turtles have been discovered on Phuket, and an increasing number of dugongs has been spotted close to Thai shores.
Wednesday, November 13, 2019
‘Being Well’ at Great Value in Bangkok During Holiday Season
#onlyinthailand
Outstanding Three-day, Two-night stay for two offer with a focus on well-being
The upscale lifestyle wellness 235-room and suites Well Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 is offering guests a $378 three-day, two-night ‘Being Well’ holiday season package for two.
Focused on well-being, the offer includes a 60-minute wellness activity with a choice of Aromatherapy Massage, Ancient Thai Massage, Muay Thai Class and Personal Fitness Training.
Also included are a daily buffet breakfast, complimentary in-room minibar, 15% discount on standard menu at Well Spa, 35% discount on food on a la carte menu at Eat Well Café, complimentary access to Well Fitness, outdoor salted water swimming and group exercise classes, and a special rate on extended nights. One free date change is available at least seven days prior to the original check-in date.
Available from now until 31 March 2020 with a supplement charge of $24 net per night applied for stays between 25 December 2019 and 10 January 2020.
More than half a million Australians visit Bangkok each year for holidays and business. Many like to stay where they feel welcome, at a home away from home, in the world’s most popular travel destination.
The Well Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20, supports good living in a city that rarely sleeps and is providing a distinct advantage for visitors looking to maintain healthy lifestyles.
The hotel is located in central Sukhumvit, a global tourism destination where you can experience everything Bangkok has on offer – restaurants and bars, clubs, retail malls, food markets, bespoke tailors, handicraft outlets and more. The Well Hotel is an easy walking distance from the BTS Skytrain (Asok), MRT Subway (Sukhumvit), Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre and luxury malls such as The Emporium, The EmQuartier and Terminal 21. On the pavements and streets in between, hawkers sell souvenirs and knock-off designer goods, luggage and footwear as well as roadside eats, beauty and massage.
From here, long walks can be launched, Yoga, Muay Thai or workouts hosted at the Well’s open-air pool and fitness centre where high stress and demanding work lives are put back into balance.
Around the corner at the EmQuartier, guests can access Bounce, one of Bangkok’s newer fitness and fun experiences. It is an adrenaline playground comprising interconnected trampolines, adventure features, padding and airbags. Suitable for all ages – pre-schoolers and teenagers through to fitness enthusiasts and corporate groups.
Nearby Benjakiti Park is one of Bangkok’s most popular parks offering space for joggers, walkers and cyclists. Further afield is Lumphini Park providing 2.5-km of paths for walkers, joggers and cyclists who exercise at sunrise and sunset to avoid the heat of the day. Here you will find children’s playgrounds, beautiful flora and magnificent trees, boats on lakes, hundreds of birds and even monitor lizards.
The RSM Academy at Rajadamnern Stadium, the original home of Muay Thai, offers a welcoming platform for enthusiasts of all ages and abilities to explore the art of Thai boxing.
The three-year-old Well Hotel Bangkok has five-room categories to suit all guest needs. All rooms and suites have comfortable beds, work desks, mini-bar, personal electronic safety box, 46-inch smart TV, telecoms, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout and LAN cable in room and mobile device charging stations.
Each Executive Suite and Executive Room is equipped with an exercise bike, yoga and Pilate’s equipment. Guests can also join the free group exercise classes daily. In addition, a microwave and printer on request are provided in all Executive Suites.
Other facilities include the Eat Well Café, The Twist Bar & Bistro, Pool Bar, Well Spa, Fitness Centre and an outdoor rooftop swimming pool. Meeting and event spaces are available for corporate meetings or small to mid-sized events. For security, the hotel has HD CCTV in public areas and a key card system for guest areas and elevators. A 24-hour room service, in-room dining, baby-sitting service, currency exchange, laundry and dry cleaning, valet parking and shoeshine service are also available to ensure a relaxed and pleasant stay.
The Twist Bar & Bistro is located on the ground floor of Memory Wing. It is a perfect place for an intimate dinner, or with friends just to catch up for a chat, a memorable cocktail and a wealth of appetizing Thai and Western meals. The restaurant has a touch of Art Deco design with a modern twist evoking the glamour and romance of the prohibition-era of the 1920’s and 30’s. Besides the comfortable and cosy dining area inside, there is also an outdoor terrace where patrons can take in the scene. The menu changes seasonally and daily specials using fresh ingredients are offered with a main focus on Western cuisine.
Open during the day the Eat Well Café focuses on traditional fare and Asian fusion. The café features only healthy fresh ingredients. Breakfast is also served daily in the café.
The Pool Bar is located on the Level 7 of Welcome Wing offering, herbal drinks, juice, cocktails, beers and light snacks.
The hotel has the magic mix to bring to life the hotel mantra of “live a healthy lifestyle while travelling. The Wellness Centre has a Well Spa, Fitness Centre and Rooftop Saltwater swimming pool. Well Spa is offering 100% natural therapies with natural products and essential oils in all treatments and massages. The hotel prides itself as a lifestyle wellness hotel. The concept is highlighted by the three main messages which are sleep well, eat well and stay well.
Designed by leading Thai architectural and design company, BEGRAY. The project started with the renovation of a post-modern building which is now Memory Wing. Later the second building was built in the same fashion, named the Welcome Wing featuring the lobby. The architect was inspired by the old houses and buildings in Sukhumvit area that portray the classic Thai twist design harmonizing the old and the new with the touch of art deco. It is aimed to bring an exceptional hotel experience to the guests who appreciate classic design but do not want to compromise on the ideal location of the Well Hotel Bangkok.
A combination of health and wellness, comfort and style plus responsive staff are corner stones of the Well Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20.
Monday, November 4, 2019
Chiva-Som Reopens for a New Era Of Wellness
The Chiva-Som International Health Resort in Hua Hin, Thailand, has reopened its doors, marking the completion of the fourth and final stage of its renovation - the first major works since its launch over 24 years ago - and welcoming a brand new era of wellness.
Tuesday, July 30, 2019
New Cultural Cycling Tour of Northern Thailand

Grasshopper Adventures is excited to announce a brand new cycling tour of Northern Thailand. This 9-day journey takes riders from the sites of Chiang Rai, through rural mountain landscapes and lush forests, to Chiang Mai. Northern Thailand, bordering Laos and Myanmar, is known for its forested mountains inhabited by several hill tribes, each with its own language and culture. Guests will discover impressive Buddhist landmarks by bike, enjoy breathtaking views, and immerse themselves in spectacular nature on this active holiday. Departures are available in October, November, and January with prices starting at $2,800 per person double.
For more information, visit https://www.grasshopperadventures.com/multi-day-cycling-tours/chiang-mai-kingdoms-of-the-north-bike-tour/.
Friday, July 5, 2019
Thailand's Highest Restaurant and Bar Is Now Open at Mahanakhon Bangkok SkyBar
Mahanakhon Bangkok SkyBar, Thailand's highest restaurant and bar is now open at Bangkok's landmark destination, King Power Mahanakhon. Located in the heart of Sathorn and directly connected to Chong Nonsi BTS station, the new dining venue is situated on the 76th and 77th floor of the iconic pixelated building. Inspired by the Chaopraya river and the concept of an eclectic journey, a visit to the upscale modern brasserie allows one to step into an exotic escape from the usual hustle and bustle of Bangkok. Tastefully designed indoor and outdoor seating areas, along with exclusive VIP lounges offer a comfortable dining venue for guests to enjoy world-class mixology and unique dishes. As Wilson Associates' latest interior masterpiece led by Tristan Auer, Mahanakhon Bangkok SkyBar is Bangkok's newest iconic dining destination.
Wednesday, March 6, 2019
Six Senses Yao Noi Reintroduces ‘The View’ - Southeast Asia’s Ultimate Romantic Villa
YAO NOI, Thailand – The View, a newly revamped premium one-bedroom villa at Six Senses Yao Noi is now welcoming guests. Ideal for couples, especially honeymooners and those celebrating a special occasion, it provides an abode of comfort, exclusivity and space with a touch of fun and quirky elements.
Wednesday, February 27, 2019
137 Pillars House - a New Era of Elegance

The award-winning 137 Pillars House is a stunning 30 suite boutique hotel with a rich colonial past; built around the original colonial teak homestead which dates back to the late 1800s. It is located in a leafy residential enclave a few minutes’ walk from the historical Wat Gate Temple, Ping River and boutique shopping area. The hotel is a member of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH).
Thursday, September 27, 2018
Chiva-Som - Countdown to Reopening
#thailand

The much-anticipated re-opening of Chiva-Som International Health Resort, Hua Hin on 1 November 2018 is on schedule with this acclaimed Thailand property nearing completion of its current refurbishment program which commenced in May for the temporary period of closure.
New and refreshed guest experiences will include the unveiling of more spacious Thai Pavilions in a contemporary Thai style and stunning new Thai Pavilion Suite accommodation featuring a glass-walled private space for around six guests, set amidst the tranquil gardens and suitable for private breakfast, lunch and dinner, meditation or just for relaxing. Glass doors, automatic blinds and insect screens in an outdoor private sala can be kept open or closed, in either case offering beautiful views of the surrounding lake and gardens.
The Emerald Room will be brighter to give a fresh and relaxing ambience inside or on the terrace for breakfast, lunch and dinner while The Orchid Lounge will offer a new layout and style that includes a juice bar and live music corner as guests enjoy an extensive choice of mocktails, teas and other refreshments.
The Fitness Centre will feature a new reception area, dedicated stretching area, new equipment and refunctional exercise studio whilst the Library and Guest Relations area are being given a new look and feel.
This expansive period of refurbishment, which continues next year with Chiva-Som again to be closed from May through October, is being overseen by Chairman and CEO of Chiva-Som International Health Resort, Mr Krip Rojanastien, who together with Designrealization Siam co. ltd, one of the world's most respected architecture forms, has developed a modern and fresh take on Asia's much-loved classic.
Chiva-Som is a popular destination for Australians offering guests a total lifestyle transformation to achieve wellness and longevity and will continue to present a full range of health and wellness Speciality Retreats, integrating naturopathic and conventional medicines, including A Taste of Chiva-Som, Art of Detox, Optimal Performance, Spa Wellbeing, Yoga for Life, Fitness, Natural Renewal, Sustainable Weight Management, Cell Vitality, Cranial Relief, Emotional Wellbeing and Tension Release.
All components are set and overseen by expert health professionals including consulting doctors, naturopaths, fitness instructors, spa therapists, nutritionists and alternative health practitioners.
Reservations are available to book throughout from 1 November 2018 to 30 April 2019 when Chiva-Som will again close temporarily for the next phase of refurbishment for re-opening 1 November 2019.
For Chiva-Som bookings in Australia contact your travel agent or a Chiva-Som Specialist on 1300 857 437.

The much-anticipated re-opening of Chiva-Som International Health Resort, Hua Hin on 1 November 2018 is on schedule with this acclaimed Thailand property nearing completion of its current refurbishment program which commenced in May for the temporary period of closure.
New and refreshed guest experiences will include the unveiling of more spacious Thai Pavilions in a contemporary Thai style and stunning new Thai Pavilion Suite accommodation featuring a glass-walled private space for around six guests, set amidst the tranquil gardens and suitable for private breakfast, lunch and dinner, meditation or just for relaxing. Glass doors, automatic blinds and insect screens in an outdoor private sala can be kept open or closed, in either case offering beautiful views of the surrounding lake and gardens.
![]() |
The Fitness Centre will feature a new reception area, dedicated stretching area, new equipment and refunctional exercise studio whilst the Library and Guest Relations area are being given a new look and feel.
This expansive period of refurbishment, which continues next year with Chiva-Som again to be closed from May through October, is being overseen by Chairman and CEO of Chiva-Som International Health Resort, Mr Krip Rojanastien, who together with Designrealization Siam co. ltd, one of the world's most respected architecture forms, has developed a modern and fresh take on Asia's much-loved classic.
Chiva-Som is a popular destination for Australians offering guests a total lifestyle transformation to achieve wellness and longevity and will continue to present a full range of health and wellness Speciality Retreats, integrating naturopathic and conventional medicines, including A Taste of Chiva-Som, Art of Detox, Optimal Performance, Spa Wellbeing, Yoga for Life, Fitness, Natural Renewal, Sustainable Weight Management, Cell Vitality, Cranial Relief, Emotional Wellbeing and Tension Release.
All components are set and overseen by expert health professionals including consulting doctors, naturopaths, fitness instructors, spa therapists, nutritionists and alternative health practitioners.
Reservations are available to book throughout from 1 November 2018 to 30 April 2019 when Chiva-Som will again close temporarily for the next phase of refurbishment for re-opening 1 November 2019.
For Chiva-Som bookings in Australia contact your travel agent or a Chiva-Som Specialist on 1300 857 437.
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