The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui Opens in Thailand
Date: June 2018
Location: North-Eastern part of Koh Samui, Thailand
Name: The Ritz-Carlton Koh Samui
No. of Keys: 175 suites and pool villas
Seller:
Developer/Owner: YTL Hotels held the official opening party in early June 2018, after much global anticipation.
The elegantly decorated Baan Talat was the alfresco setting for the dinner.
Ceremonial speeches were led by Tan Sri Dato’ (Dr) Francis Yeoh, Managing Director of YTL Group of Companies, Craig Smith, President and Managing Director of Asia-Pacific for Marriott International, Inc and Mahmoud Skaf, Area General Manager.
“It is truly exciting to be in Koh Samui – an island that has long had a reputation for its extraordinary and charming island life, and authentic Thai hospitality and culture; a destination that is a perennial favourite amongst domestic and international travellers.
While the Ritz-Carlton Reserve brand was launched in Thailand in 2008 with Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui is the first Ritz-Carlton hotel in Thailand.
Having been long-standing partners for the last 20 years, we look forward to further strengthening the relationship between YTL Hotels and Marriott International in Asia-Pacific and globally,” said Tan Sri Francis Yeoh.
YTL Corporation Berhad, owner of several European & Malaysian Hotels, including The Threadneedles in London, branded under Marriott’s Autograph Collection, the boutique Bray House in Berkshire, England, JW Marriott and Ritz Carlton in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, three Marriotts in Australia and the Vistana by YTL Hotels chain.
The Money Island in Bray, Berkshire is due to re-open in 2018.
In March 2018 YTL bought the Hague Marriott
Tan Sri Dato (Dr) Francis Yeoh Sock Ping, who grew the parent company from a single listed entity in 1988 to five listed companies and one of the largest conglomerates in Malaysia. In 2006 he was awarded the CBE by Queen Elizabeth II, here in the UK. The hotel division is run by Datuk Mark Yeoh as Executive Director.
The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui, located on the north-eastern part of the island, is a stunning 58-acre oceanfront property that stretches from hilltop to beach. Built on the site of a former coconut plantation, the resort pays homage to its past through the extensive use of coconut and other natural materials – touches that imbue a sense of place and help immerse guests in the destination.
The resort’s gastronomic experiences will “ignite the senses with vibrant explorations of scents, flavours and colours.” Shook!, a stylish interactive dining space, serves innovative Asian and Western dishes complemented by a superb selection of fine wines.
Pak Tai features traditional southern interpretation of Thai cuisine using locally sourced ingredients and offers views over the swim reef from its private dining alcoves;
Sea Salt, with international classics and Thai favourites are available in a relaxed ambience; and Tides, an ideal spot for sun-lovers to unwind with a refreshing cocktail from the poolside bar and a citrus-cured specialty from the cevicheria.
The circular bar and lounge, One Rai, is an intimate refuge for sundowners and Asian-inspired appetisers. On Saturdays, guests can enjoy Baan Talat, a weekly outdoor dining experience that serves an authentic array of à la minute Thai street food dishes cooked at the individual street food stalls; traditional dancing and local crafts are also featured to further enhance the market-style atmosphere.
THPT Comment: So that the wining and dining taken care of!
First Seen: Insights eHotelier