Latest news with #BanyanGroup


The Sun
3 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Banyan Group Residences Introducing its Most Luxurious Ever Phuket Homes at Singapore Sales Exhibition May 31-June 1
SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 30 May 2025 - Banyan Group Residences' latest sales exhibition, to be held at Fairmont Hotel Singapore this weekend May 31-June 1 will showcase a number of new projects in Phuket, amid a surge of international interest in luxury real estate on the island from all over the world including Singapore which is one of the group's top 5 global source markets and accounts for 6% of the group's Phuket real estate sales. Banyan Group expects to release US$1bn worth of new luxury residential real estate in Phuket over the next two to three years, as demand for quality homes on the island remains high from diverse international markets. At the top of the range is Banyan Group's latest absolute beachfront project, Banyan Tree Beach Residences Oceanus - branded residences at the rarest location within internationally-renowned Laguna Phuket which are set right on the beach in a prime area of Bang Tao, the island's most sought-after district. The 16 magnificent ultra-luxury 4-bedroom Banyan Tree Beach Residences Oceanus are exceptional in every way, with each boasting built-up areas which measure from an incredible 416 sqm all the way up to 768 sqm for the penthouses. Finished to the highest standards using the highest quality materials, they unlock a lifestyle of unparalleled luxury on the doorstep of one of the world's most desirable beaches and are expected to set new record prices for condos on the island. Other recent launches to be showcased in Singapore include Residences at Garrya Phuket, new wellness concept beachfront homes managed as part of the Garrya Phuket hotel which come with guaranteed rental returns of 5% for the first 5 years, and Laguna Lake Residences Aster, minimal-chic contemporary style low-rise condos with a stunning rooftop infinity pool – around a multi-purpose communal lawn and manicured gardens, situated at the entrance of Laguna Phuket and just a stroll away from the popular lifestyle malls of Boat Avenue and Central de Porto. Meanwhile the Group will also be showcasing Skypark Elara Lakelands Residences, stunning nature-themed residences with beautiful rooftop pools and terraces overlooking tranquil parks and lagoons. These are the second phase of condos at the pioneering new Laguna Lakelands, a one square kilometre residential community interwoven by 15km of nature trails and walkways, natural forest and tranquil lagoons. The breathtakingly ambitious master plan is unfolding in stages and incorporates a wide range of recreational options for all ages prioritising health and wellness including a community club featuring an Olympic sized pool, tennis and padel courts and a fitness centre. Banyan Group, led by Singaporean entrepreneur Ho Kwong Ping (KP Ho), is famous for its pioneering Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts luxury hospitality brand with a strong focus on wellbeing which celebrated its 30th anniversary last year. The group's first property was Banyan Tree Phuket – also the first resort to introduce the private pool villa concept - but this has since grown to an impressive group of over 90 luxury resorts globally. Last year, Banyan Tree Group rebranded to Banyan Group to reflect the fact that the Group now has 12 global brands of which Banyan Tree is the flagship. Banyan Group has also been an important driving force in the development of Phuket first as a tourism destination, and more recently as a place for second homes. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Andaman Sea, on a 3km stretch of Bang Tao's pristine beach, Laguna Phuket, developed by the Banyan Group has evolved over 35 years to become Asia's leading integrated resort, home to seven world-class hotels, premium facilities as well as now some 3,000 branded residences, many on or close to the beach. Spanning over 1,000 acres of lush parkland and located just a 30-minute drive from Phuket International Airport, Laguna Phuket has an award-winning 18-hole golf course, luxury spas, exceptional dining options, and countless activities to create unforgettable experiences. Its hotels and condos are set against picturesque lagoons and are interconnected by boats. It will soon also have its own 150-metre-long Beach Club with dedicated zones reserved exclusively for residents. As more and more people over time have flocked to Phuket not just for vacations but as a place to live, Laguna Phuket has evolved to become a unique international residential community, welcoming people from diverse backgrounds and nationalities, with nationals of some 70 different countries as its residents. It even has its own kindergarten, medical and wellness facilities. 'We're seeing a huge demand for new homes in Phuket due to a whole range of factors from trends such as urban flight, work from home, geopolitical issues and simply the fact that Phuket has become a great place to live with world-class international schools and hospitals and all the benefits of a year-round tropical lifestyle,' said Stuart Reading, Managing Director of Banyan Group Residences. 'High-quality property is still significantly cheaper in Phuket than in most of the buyer source markets like Hong Kong, Singapore or Europe, which is also an important factor,' he said. 'For a high quality development in a prime location in Hong Kong, USD1m only gets you about 22sqm of space, compared to over 200 sqm in Phuket,' he said. Singapore buyers are in the top 5 markets for residential properties at Laguna Phuket, accounting for 6% of all historic sales. There is still plenty of room for more growth, according to Banyan Group. Up to 2024, a total of around 3,000 residential units have been built in Laguna Phuket, with another 700 now under development. A further 10,000 units are eventually envisaged for Laguna Phuket and Laguna Lakelands over the next 10 years. 'Our strategy is to focus solely on quality high spec residences, regardless of their size,' says Stuart Reading, MD of Banyan Group Residences. 'It's a bit like when you buy a car from a luxury car brand like BMW or Mercedes, even if you are buying a smaller vehicle you know that the quality and craftsmanship is still on the same level as the top of the range models.' Mr Reading says the group will develop larger branded apartments and penthouses in some of Laguna Phuket's prime beachfront sites, some possibly measuring up to 500 or even 700 sq m in size. 'Scarcity of beachfront land especially on the prestigious central west coast where we're located means we can look to create luxury living through spacious and high-spec apartments with private terrace or rooftop pools rather than land-intensive single villas,' he explains. At the same time, Banyan Group will build lower entry price, smaller but still high specification condominiums in Laguna Lakelands, and other sites within Phuket Laguna that are further from the beach. Banyan Group recently announced a new initiative The Laguna Advantage, which offers a full suite of services designed to make living in Phuket easier for new homeowners. They range from complimentary first year management services and property insurance to healthcare and education privileges such as complimentary first year enrolment at Laguna Phuket's award-winning onsite pre-school SILK Kindergarten and special rates at Phuket's leading international schools.


Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Banyan Group Residences Introducing its Most Luxurious Ever Phuket Homes at Singapore Sales Exhibition May 31-June 1
The pioneering hospitality group's latest property exhibition is headlined by ultra-luxury condos targeting HNWI amid strong international demand for lifestyle homes in Phuket SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 30 May 2025 - Banyan Group Residences' latest sales exhibition, to be held at Fairmont Hotel Singapore this weekend May 31-June 1 will showcase a number of new projects in Phuket, amid a surge of international interest in luxury real estate on the island from all over the world including Singapore which is one of the group's top 5 global source markets and accounts for 6% of the group's Phuket real estate sales. Banyan Group expects to release US$1bn worth of new luxury residential real estate in Phuket over the next two to three years, as demand for quality homes on the island remains high from diverse international markets. At the top of the range is Banyan Group's latest absolute beachfront project, Banyan Tree Beach Residences Oceanus - branded residences at the rarest location within internationally-renowned Laguna Phuket which are set right on the beach in a prime area of Bang Tao, the island's most sought-after district. The 16 magnificent ultra-luxury 4-bedroom Banyan Tree Beach Residences Oceanus are exceptional in every way, with each boasting built-up areas which measure from an incredible 416 sqm all the way up to 768 sqm for the penthouses. Finished to the highest standards using the highest quality materials, they unlock a lifestyle of unparalleled luxury on the doorstep of one of the world's most desirable beaches and are expected to set new record prices for condos on the island. Other recent launches to be showcased in Singapore include Residences at Garrya Phuket, new wellness concept beachfront homes managed as part of the Garrya Phuket hotel which come with guaranteed rental returns of 5% for the first 5 years, and Laguna Lake Residences Aster, minimal-chic contemporary style low-rise condos with a stunning rooftop infinity pool – around a multi-purpose communal lawn and manicured gardens, situated at the entrance of Laguna Phuket and just a stroll away from the popular lifestyle malls of Boat Avenue and Central de Porto. Meanwhile the Group will also be showcasing Skypark Elara Lakelands Residences, stunning nature-themed residences with beautiful rooftop pools and terraces overlooking tranquil parks and lagoons. These are the second phase of condos at the pioneering new Laguna Lakelands, a one square kilometre residential community interwoven by 15km of nature trails and walkways, natural forest and tranquil lagoons. The breathtakingly ambitious master plan is unfolding in stages and incorporates a wide range of recreational options for all ages prioritising health and wellness including a community club featuring an Olympic sized pool, tennis and padel courts and a fitness centre. Banyan Group, led by Singaporean entrepreneur Ho Kwong Ping (KP Ho), is famous for its pioneering Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts luxury hospitality brand with a strong focus on wellbeing which celebrated its 30 th anniversary last year. The group's first property was Banyan Tree Phuket – also the first resort to introduce the private pool villa concept - but this has since grown to an impressive group of over 90 luxury resorts globally. Last year, Banyan Tree Group rebranded to Banyan Group to reflect the fact that the Group now has 12 global brands of which Banyan Tree is the flagship. Banyan Group has also been an important driving force in the development of Phuket first as a tourism destination, and more recently as a place for second homes. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Andaman Sea, on a 3km stretch of Bang Tao's pristine beach, Laguna Phuket, developed by the Banyan Group has evolved over 35 years to become Asia's leading integrated resort, home to seven world-class hotels, premium facilities as well as now some 3,000 branded residences, many on or close to the beach. Spanning over 1,000 acres of lush parkland and located just a 30-minute drive from Phuket International Airport, Laguna Phuket has an award-winning 18-hole golf course, luxury spas, exceptional dining options, and countless activities to create unforgettable experiences. Its hotels and condos are set against picturesque lagoons and are interconnected by boats. It will soon also have its own 150-metre-long Beach Club with dedicated zones reserved exclusively for residents. As more and more people over time have flocked to Phuket not just for vacations but as a place to live, Laguna Phuket has evolved to become a unique international residential community, welcoming people from diverse backgrounds and nationalities, with nationals of some 70 different countries as its residents. It even has its own kindergarten, medical and wellness facilities. "We're seeing a huge demand for new homes in Phuket due to a whole range of factors from trends such as urban flight, work from home, geopolitical issues and simply the fact that Phuket has become a great place to live with world-class international schools and hospitals and all the benefits of a year-round tropical lifestyle," said Stuart Reading, Managing Director of Banyan Group Residences. "High-quality property is still significantly cheaper in Phuket than in most of the buyer source markets like Hong Kong, Singapore or Europe, which is also an important factor," he said. "For a high quality development in a prime location in Hong Kong, USD1m only gets you about 22sqm of space, compared to over 200 sqm in Phuket," he said. Singapore buyers are in the top 5 markets for residential properties at Laguna Phuket, accounting for 6% of all historic sales. There is still plenty of room for more growth, according to Banyan Group. Up to 2024, a total of around 3,000 residential units have been built in Laguna Phuket, with another 700 now under development. A further 10,000 units are eventually envisaged for Laguna Phuket and Laguna Lakelands over the next 10 years. "Our strategy is to focus solely on quality high spec residences, regardless of their size," says Stuart Reading, MD of Banyan Group Residences. "It's a bit like when you buy a car from a luxury car brand like BMW or Mercedes, even if you are buying a smaller vehicle you know that the quality and craftsmanship is still on the same level as the top of the range models." Mr Reading says the group will develop larger branded apartments and penthouses in some of Laguna Phuket's prime beachfront sites, some possibly measuring up to 500 or even 700 sq m in size. "Scarcity of beachfront land especially on the prestigious central west coast where we're located means we can look to create luxury living through spacious and high-spec apartments with private terrace or rooftop pools rather than land-intensive single villas," he explains. At the same time, Banyan Group will build lower entry price, smaller but still high specification condominiums in Laguna Lakelands, and other sites within Phuket Laguna that are further from the beach. Banyan Group recently announced a new initiative The Laguna Advantage, which offers a full suite of services designed to make living in Phuket easier for new homeowners. They range from complimentary first year management services and property insurance to healthcare and education privileges such as complimentary first year enrolment at Laguna Phuket's award-winning onsite pre-school SILK Kindergarten and special rates at Phuket's leading international schools. Hashtag: #BanyanGroup The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Banyan Group Banyan Group ("Banyan Tree Holdings Limited" or the "Group" - SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans across over 90 hotels and resorts, over 140 spas and galleries, and 14 branded residences in over 20+ countries. Comprising 12 global brands, including the flagship brand Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme with Banyan. The founding ethos of "Embracing the Environment, Empowering People" is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Management Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience. About Banyan Group Residences Banyan Group Residences is the property development arm of leading hospitality pioneer the Banyan Group, which is listed on the stock exchanges of Thailand and Singapore. With over 30 years of development experience and an impressive portfolio of residential brands to suit different lifestyles and budgets, it is Thailand's leading lifestyle property developer with a strong and increasingly international pipeline of projects. The group ' s main residential brands are the flagship luxury Banyan Tree Residences as well as Angsana Residences, Dhawa Residences, Garrya Residences, Laguna Residences, Cassia Residences, Skypark and the pioneering new Laguna Lakelands. Banyan Group


Malay Mail
3 days ago
- Business
- Malay Mail
Banyan Group Residences Introducing its Most Luxurious Ever Phuket Homes at Singapore Sales Exhibition May 31-June 1
The pioneering hospitality group's latest property exhibition is headlined by ultra-luxury condos targeting HNWI amid strong international demand for lifestyle homes in Phuket Banyan Tree Beach Residences Oceanus SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 30 May 2025 - Banyan Group Residences' latest sales exhibition, to be held at Fairmont Hotel Singapore this weekend May 31-June 1 will showcase a number of new projects in Phuket, amid a surge of international interest in luxury real estate on the island from all over the world including Singapore which is one of the group's top 5 global source markets and accounts for 6% of the group's Phuket real estate Group expects to release US$1bn worth of new luxury residential real estate in Phuket over the next two to three years, as demand for quality homes on the island remains high from diverse international the top of the range is Banyan Group's latest absolute beachfront project, Banyan Tree Beach Residences Oceanus - branded residences at the rarest location within internationally-renowned Laguna Phuket which are set right on the beach in a prime area of Bang Tao, the island's most sought-after 16 magnificent ultra-luxury 4-bedroom Banyan Tree Beach Residences Oceanus are exceptional in every way, with each boasting built-up areas which measure from an incredible 416 sqm all the way up to 768 sqm for the penthouses. Finished to the highest standards using the highest quality materials, they unlock a lifestyle of unparalleled luxury on the doorstep of one of the world's most desirable beaches and are expected to set new record prices for condos on the recent launches to be showcased in Singapore include Residences at Garrya Phuket, new wellness concept beachfront homes managed as part of the Garrya Phuket hotel which come with guaranteed rental returns of 5% for the first 5 years, and Laguna Lake Residences Aster, minimal-chic contemporary style low-rise condos with a stunning rooftop infinity pool – around a multi-purpose communal lawn and manicured gardens, situated at the entrance of Laguna Phuket and just a stroll away from the popular lifestyle malls of Boat Avenue and Central de the Group will also be showcasing Skypark Elara Lakelands Residences, stunning nature-themed residences with beautiful rooftop pools and terraces overlooking tranquil parks and lagoons. These are the second phase of condos at the pioneering new Laguna Lakelands, a one square kilometre residential community interwoven by 15km of nature trails and walkways, natural forest and tranquil lagoons. The breathtakingly ambitious master plan is unfolding in stages and incorporates a wide range of recreational options for all ages prioritising health and wellness including a community club featuring an Olympic sized pool, tennis and padel courts and a fitness Group, led by Singaporean entrepreneur Ho Kwong Ping (KP Ho), is famous for its pioneering Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts luxury hospitality brand with a strong focus on wellbeing which celebrated its 30anniversary last year. The group's first property was Banyan Tree Phuket – also the first resort to introduce the private pool villa concept - but this has since grown to an impressive group of over 90 luxury resorts globally. Last year, Banyan Tree Group rebranded to Banyan Group to reflect the fact that the Group now has 12 global brands of which Banyan Tree is the Group has also been an important driving force in the development of Phuket first as a tourism destination, and more recently as a place for second homes. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Andaman Sea, on a 3km stretch of Bang Tao's pristine beach, Laguna Phuket, developed by the Banyan Group has evolved over 35 years to become Asia's leading integrated resort, home to seven world-class hotels, premium facilities as well as now some 3,000 branded residences, many on or close to the over 1,000 acres of lush parkland and located just a 30-minute drive from Phuket International Airport, Laguna Phuket has an award-winning 18-hole golf course, luxury spas, exceptional dining options, and countless activities to create unforgettable experiences. Its hotels and condos are set against picturesque lagoons and are interconnected by boats. It will soon also have its own 150-metre-long Beach Club with dedicated zones reserved exclusively for more and more people over time have flocked to Phuket not just for vacations but as a place to live, Laguna Phuket has evolved to become a unique international residential community, welcoming people from diverse backgrounds and nationalities, with nationals of some 70 different countries as its residents. It even has its own kindergarten, medical and wellness facilities."We're seeing a huge demand for new homes in Phuket due to a whole range of factors from trends such as urban flight, work from home, geopolitical issues and simply the fact that Phuket has become a great place to live with world-class international schools and hospitals and all the benefits of a year-round tropical lifestyle," said"High-quality property is still significantly cheaper in Phuket than in most of the buyer source markets like Hong Kong, Singapore or Europe, which is also an important factor," he said. "For a high quality development in a prime location in Hong Kong, USD1m only gets you about 22sqm of space, compared to over 200 sqm in Phuket," he buyers are in the top 5 markets for residential properties at Laguna Phuket, accounting for 6% of all historic is still plenty of room for more growth, according to Banyan Group. Up to 2024, a total of around 3,000 residential units have been built in Laguna Phuket, with another 700 now under development. A further 10,000 units are eventually envisaged for Laguna Phuket and Laguna Lakelands over the next 10 years."Our strategy is to focus solely on quality high spec residences, regardless of their size," says Stuart Reading, MD of Banyan Group Residences. "It's a bit like when you buy a car from a luxury car brand like BMW or Mercedes, even if you are buying a smaller vehicle you know that the quality and craftsmanship is still on the same level as the top of the range models."Mr Reading says the group will develop larger branded apartments and penthouses in some of Laguna Phuket's prime beachfront sites, some possibly measuring up to 500 or even 700 sq m in size."Scarcity of beachfront land especially on the prestigious central west coast where we're located means we can look to create luxury living through spacious and high-spec apartments with private terrace or rooftop pools rather than land-intensive single villas," he the same time, Banyan Group will build lower entry price, smaller but still high specification condominiums in Laguna Lakelands, and other sites within Phuket Laguna that are further from the Group recently announced a new initiative The Laguna Advantage, which offers a full suite of services designed to make living in Phuket easier for new homeowners. They range from complimentary first year management services and property insurance to healthcare and education privileges such as complimentary first year enrolment at Laguna Phuket's award-winning onsite pre-school SILK Kindergarten and special rates at Phuket's leading international #BanyanGroup The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Banyan Group Banyan Group ("Banyan Tree Holdings Limited" or the "Group" - SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans across over 90 hotels and resorts, over 140 spas and galleries, and 14 branded residences in over 20+ countries. Comprising 12 global brands, including the flagship brand Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme with Banyan. The founding ethos of "Embracing the Environment, Empowering People" is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Management Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience. About Banyan Group Residences Banyan Group Residences is the property development arm of leading hospitality pioneer the Banyan Group, which is listed on the stock exchanges of Thailand and Singapore. With over 30 years of development experience and an impressive portfolio of residential brands to suit different lifestyles and budgets, it is Thailand's leading lifestyle property developer with a strong and increasingly international pipeline of projects. The group ' s main residential brands are the flagship luxury Banyan Tree Residences as well as Angsana Residences, Dhawa Residences, Garrya Residences, Laguna Residences, Cassia Residences, Skypark and the pioneering new Laguna Lakelands.


Sunday Post
20-05-2025
- Sunday Post
Travel: Completely de-stressing at Dhawa Ihuru, the Maldives' best diving destination
Get a weekly round-up of stories from The Sunday Post: Thank you for signing up to our Sunday Post newsletter. Something went wrong - please try again later. Sign Up Imagine a world with no roads, no cars and no stress. That world exists, and it's on a small Maldivian island called Ihuru in the middle of the Indian Ocean. I'd only dreamt about what the Maldives is actually like – until I experienced its magic for myself. 'The sand really is that white; the water really is that turquoise,' I quickly concluded while on my 25-minute speedboat transfer from Male (also known as Velana) airport to my resort, Dhawa Ihuru, part of Banyan Group, a Singaporean hospitality brand, since 1994. The stress of travelling for the last 16-plus hours from Glasgow-Dubai-Male quickly melted away as I was greeted by waving staff members on the jetty, very reminiscent of TV's White Lotus. And I knew I was going to enjoy my stay here at Banyan Group's upscale boutique resort. As I checked in at the Barception, in 32-degree heat, I was handed a complimentary mocktail as blue as the ocean I was looking out at! Next, I removed my footwear – and I didn't put shoes on again until departure day – for it's a barefoot resort; there's sand everywhere (even in the restaurant). Then I am accompanied to my secluded sanctuary. On entering villa number 22 I was wowed by its size and stylish, colourful décor, but it was the view from the French doors that was calling me. I immediately flung them open and stepped into my private garden, complete with swing chair, dining area, day bed and sun lounger. Then just a few paces away (21 to be exact) was the white, sandy beach boasting a spectacular panoramic view across the Indian Ocean. It's a sight that will stick with me for ever. Surprisingly, the toilet, shower, sink and Jacuzzi are all located outside my private villa, but I overcame my fear on first use. And you don't need to worry about anyone snooping, as they are totally secluded and the resort operates a no-drone policy, so you're completely unseen. As all-inclusive, family-friendly Dhawa Ihuru has its own house reef, a beautiful coral reef that wraps around the island, and is regarded as the 'best diving destination in the Maldives' I had to try snorkelling in open water for the first time. It is also a popular spot for scuba diving. Ali, recreation manager at Marine Centre, tells me: 'Snorkelling is like standing at an open door looking into the room. Scuba diving is you stepping into the room.' Happy to observe the marine life from 'the door', I head into the warm turquoise water – which is 28-30 degrees Celsius – with my snorkel, face mask and fins. Looking to 'the room', I am amazed by the silent, magnificent world below. It's tricky to concentrate on breathing through the snorkel as all I want to do is open my mouth in sheer amazement. I spot colourful fish I have never seen before, like ember parrotfish, red-toothed triggerfish and Black Tip sharks (yes, I am in swimming with sharks!). This is a pinch me moment. A little further out is the Rannamaari shipwreck, which sunk off the coast of Ihuru over 26 years ago, this is a must-visit for divers. After my snorkelling experience, I head to 8lements, a spa unlike any other with an open-air reception where treatments are carried out in glass boxes. I leave in a complete state of relaxation, arriving back to my villa in time for the sun setting – the first of six sunsets I would witness during my Maldivian escape. I sit, alone, on my beach in silence and reflect as I watch the sun setting before disappearing beneath the horizon. Bliss. That evening, I dine barefoot at the island's weekly Maldivian buffet night at the beachfront Riveli Restaurant. I don't feel properly dressed without my wedges, but everyone else is shoeless too. I try a traditional Maldivian curry and the best butter chicken I have ever eaten, as the Indian Ocean laps on to the shore on my right, just 4m away from my al fresco dining table. Another of the pinch me moments I have experienced during my stay. As a solo traveller, I was a little apprehensive about dining – and spending several days – alone on a small, remote island. However, I never felt lonely. Staff at Dhawa Ihuru made me feel so welcome, I had a new friend everywhere I went. It's such a positive place to be. As well as a board with daily weather updates, there is also an inspirational quote proudly displayed each day. 'Happiness is not by chance, but by choice' it says on day one. I am definitely choosing happiness here, but on this incredible island I don't imagine there is anything to be unhappy about. This trip was incredible – total escapism. And, as staff waved me off when my boat left the island, I felt a little emotional. I may have left the Maldives, but the Maldives will never leave me. P.S. Guests at Dhawa Ihuru can discover the Maldives through a unique twin-island escape as its sister island, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, is located just a five-minute speedboat ride away. Factfile We flew from Glasgow to Male Airport, via Dubai, with Emirates. Return economy class flights, including 30kg of luggage and booked seats, are around £1,100pp. We stayed at Dhawa Ihuru, North Malé Atoll, in the Maldives. Prices are around £500 per night for two adults staying in a beachfront villa. Since its sinking in 1999, the Rannamaari has become a thriving artificial reef, attracting diverse marine life, making it an unforgettable diving experience. In July, Dhawa Ihuru will celebrate the shipwreck's 26th anniversary in style.

Hospitality Net
19-05-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Kanittha Detmak Na Patthalung has been appointed General Manager at Cassia Phuket and Homm Suites Laguna Phuket
Cassia Phuket and Homm Suites Laguna Phuket are pleased to announce the appointment of Kanittha Detmak Na Patthalung as General Manager, effective 1 June 2025. With over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Kanittha brings a wealth of operational expertise, leadership acumen, and deep-rooted knowledge of the Phuket market to her new role. A long-standing member of the Banyan Group, she has contributed meaningfully to the success of several properties across the brand's portfolio. She began her journey with the Group in 2011 as Front Office Manager at Angsana Laguna Phuket, before being appointed Operations Manager at Cassia Phuket in 2015, where she played a central role in launching the resort and shaping its bold, lifestyle-oriented identity. She later returned as Hotel Manager at Angsana Laguna Phuket, where her leadership helped elevate service standards, guest satisfaction, and team morale. In her expanded role, Kanittha will lead the teams at Cassia Phuket and Homm Suites Laguna Phuket, guiding both properties in delivering exceptional, brand-aligned guest experiences. Cassia continues to appeal to independent, socially connected travelers through its vibrant and flexible concept, while Homm Suites offers a warm and homely resort experience grounded in heartfelt service. Her appointment underscores Banyan Group's commitment to cultivating internal talent and advancing gender-inclusive leadership within the hospitality industry.