Latest news with #SixSenses
Skift
4 days ago
- Business
- Skift
Former Six Senses CEO Has a New Venture: Here's How He's Advising Other Hotel Groups
Neil Jacobs stepped away from operations but not from hospitality. With Wild Origins, he's helping brands scale with purpose and avoid the pitfalls he's seen before. Neil Jacobs spent 13 years building Six Senses into a resort brand known for sustainability and wellness. Now, weeks after stepping down as CEO, Jacobs has launched Wild Origins, a new venture that advises hospitality groups and developers on everything from concept creation and brand strategy to design, operations, and execution. 'We can behave as a consultant, offering McKinsey-type advice in our industry, or we can actually do it for people,' Jacobs told Skift. Wild Origins is currently advising Capella Hotel Group, which plans to increase its hotel openings next year. Jacobs is working with the group on growth strategy and senior leadership planning, including the recruitment of a new CEO. 'You go from opening one hotel every two or three years, to next year they're g
CNA
22-07-2025
- CNA
Exploring the laid-back charm of Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi, Thailand's hidden island retreats
Wedged between Phuket and Krabi in the karst-studded waters of Phang Nga Bay, the Koh Yao islands offer a soothing kind of Thai beach experience, one defined less by full-moon parties and infinity pools, and more by buffalo tracks, tide timetables, and the Islamic call to prayer. Long overshadowed by flashier neighbours, Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi have emerged as sanctuaries for travellers seeking simplicity, space, and the slow rhythm of island life. These sibling islands share geography, culture, and a strong sense of identity, but offer subtly different moods. One is waking to a new era of luxury. The other has quietly perfected the art of staying just as it is. KOH YAO NOI Koh Yao Noi has managed the improbable: It's both accessible and largely untouched. A 30-minute speedboat from either side brings you to a place where rice paddies glisten and life follows a rhythm set by tides and prayer calls. While its sister island Yao Yai is larger, Koh Yao Noi has long led the way in drawing discerning travellers with a taste for tranquillity over tourism. That's not to say it's undeveloped. Luxury found a quiet home here years ago, most notably in the form of Six Senses Yao Noi — a resort that helped define barefoot luxury in Thailand. But development has remained minimal. The vibe is mellow, the spirit intact. Where to stay Located in Phang Nga Bay, Six Senses Yao Noi is a sanctuary that's difficult to leave. The experience lifts off from the starter's gun with guests offered the chance to arrive James Bond-style by helicopter from Phuket International Airport. From there, the pampering never lets up. Hideaway or beachfront villas take care of accommodations, while private dining, personal butler service, and tailored activities — from beach strolls to rock climbing and kayaking — fill the days. For a more low-key option, Cape Kudu Hotel offers a boutique stay with bright, breezy rooms and one of the island's best sunset viewpoints. The hotel, part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World collective of independently-minded properties, strikes a balance between comfort and simplicity, with thoughtful touches like outdoor bathtubs, nautical decor, and welcoming service. Guests can lounge at the infinity pool with bay views, sip craft cocktails at the Hornbill Bar, or indulge in massages at the laid-back Cape Spa. It's stylish, sociable, and ideally situated for exploring the island's rhythms. Where to eat Koh Yao Noi's dining scene mirrors its character: Unfussy, sincere, and locally rooted. Chaba Cafe and Gallery is a creative hub where you can nibble on fusion bites amid local art, while Rice Paddy Restaurant serves up Southern Thai seafood under a charming bamboo pavilion. For sea views and elevated Thai cuisine, Hornbill Restaurant at Cape Kudu delivers a reliable mix of traditional dishes and modern touches, with the bonus of breezy al fresco dining. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chaba Cafe Koh Yao Noi (@chaba_cafe) Many upscale properties, especially Six Senses, excel at farm-to-table and wellness-inspired cuisine, often with their own gardens or organic sourcing. For something more intimate and authentic, visitors can book home-hosted meals or cooking classes with local Muslim families — a chance to experience the richly spiced, coconut-infused soul of Southern Thai Muslim cooking in a home setting. What to do Activities here are of the unhurried variety — and that's the point. Rent a scooter or hop on a vintage sidecar tour and you can loop the island in a day, taking in rice fields, sea views, and sleepy fishing villages along the way. Beach lovers can head to Pasai Beach for a swim and a fresh coconut under the trees, while the more adventurous can try Muay Thai training, island-hopping tours to nearby limestone islets, or kayaking through mangrove forests. Cape Kudu offers thoughtful experiences like batik painting classes, traditional dessert workshops, and even a sunrise breakfast cruise aboard their private 'Kantus Bride' boat. You can also feed the island's iconic hornbills or visit Tha Khao village, where time feels suspended between sea and sky. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cape Kudu Hotel, Koh Yao Noi (@capekudu) But perhaps the best thing to do here is to slow down. Read a book on the balcony. Watch the tides roll in. Let the island's gentle pace remind you that disconnection can be a luxury in itself. KOH YAO YAI Just across the channel from Koh Yao Noi lies its larger, more introverted sibling. Koh Yao Yai — Thailand's 'big long island' — is about twice the size, yet for years it was the domain of day-trippers and solitude-seekers. Development was minimal, nightlife nonexistent, and its greatest appeal lay in its silence: Dusty roads winding past fields, the shimmer of sea between rubber trees, the soft cadence of evening prayers echoing from village mosques. All that began to shift with the arrival of high-end hospitality — most notably Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas, which opened in late 2023. Yet remarkably, the island's soul has endured. This is still a deeply traditional place, where women in hijabs ride side-saddle on scooters, kids play barefoot in the temple courtyard, and fishermen mend nets beside low-tide mangroves. Where to stay Anantara Koh Yao Yai marks a new chapter in the island's tourism story. Sprawled across a quiet stretch of East Coast beach, the 148-key resort combines barefoot luxury with an easygoing Thai sensibility. Entry-level rooms begin at a spacious 90 sq m, while beachfront pool villas are sunken into the landscape, topped with turf roofs and surrounded by lush gardens. The hilltop penthouses are the showstoppers — sleek, modern, and kitted out with private infinity pools and panoramic views over Phang Nga Bay. The resort manages to be both expansive and intimate. Guests can spend their days bouncing between Thai boxing classes, sound bath meditation, and paddleboard yoga — or do nothing at all, letting the natural rhythm of the island set the pace. Where to eat View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas (@anantarakohyaoyai) There's no shortage of reasons to stay on-site. Pakarang, Anantara's signature restaurant, offers refined Thai cuisine — grilled Andaman seafood, and Southern-style curries — elevated by regional ingredients and sleek presentation. For something more casual, The Beach features everything from sushi to stone-baked pizzas in a breezy setting just steps from the sand. Outside the resort, the dining scene remains charmingly low-key. Ban Chong Lad, the island's busiest village, comes alive at dusk with sizzling roti stalls, plastic-chaired noodle shops, and the scent of deep-fried snacks wafting through the lanes. Most restaurants are halal, reflecting the island's Muslim majority, and meals are often served with a side of friendly conversation and a sunset call to prayer in the background. What to do Koh Yao Yai remains gloriously free of hard-selling tours or jam-packed itineraries. It's best explored slowly — on a scooter, by longtail, or from the padded sidecar of a vintage motorbike. The scenery ranges from sea-facing coconut plantations and shady rubber groves to near-empty beaches like Loh Pared and the narrow sandbar at Laem Had, which unfurls like a white ribbon into turquoise water. Island-hopping is a highlight. Anantara offers private longtail or speedboat excursions to nearby gems like Hong Island, known for its aquamarine lagoon and dramatic cliffs. Other options include stops at Pakbia, Phak Bia, and the bird-rich islets of the surrounding archipelago. On calmer days, kayaking through mangrove channels or snorkelling above colourful reef patches brings you even closer to the island's natural heartbeat. Back at the base, Anantara also has creative ways to engage with local life: Muay Thai lessons, Thai cooking classes, batik workshops, and even traditional Thai dance. Or do nothing at all — sip a coconut on the beach, read a book by the lagoon, watch buffalo graze in the distance. Koh Yao Yai doesn't shout for your attention. It simply waits for you to notice.
Fashion Value Chain
17-07-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Espire Hospitality Wins Big at MICE Awards 2025
Espire Hospitality Limited earned dual honours in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) category at the Hospitality Horizon MICE Summit & Awards 2025, spotlighting its leadership in event-focused hospitality. The iconic Six Senses Fort Barwara, renowned for its opulent design and historical legacy, was ranked among the Top 20 luxury hotels and resorts for MICE. Meanwhile, ZANA In The Wild, Jim Corbett was recognised in the Top 10 Leisure Hotels & Resorts for MICE, praised for its European-inspired architecture and immersive, nature-led experiences tailored for corporate offsites and retreats. Commenting on the accolades, Mr. Akhil Arora, CEO & Managing Director of Espire Hospitality Limited, stated, 'We are honoured to be recognised for both ZANA In The Wild and Six Senses Fort Barwara at the Hospitality Horizon MICE Summit & Awards. These recognitions reflect the passion of our people who craft meaningful and immersive experiences. As we grow our boutique brand ZANA – Luxury Resorts, we remain committed to setting new benchmarks in the MICE space and being a preferred partner for curating exceptional events across the country.' Espire's growing hospitality portfolio offers a wide range of experiences—Six Senses Fort Barwara delivers majestic heritage luxury, ZANA – Luxury Resorts reimagines luxury in natural surroundings, and Country Inn Hotels and Resorts offers warm, mid-scale stays. With a focus on design, service, and soulful experiences, Espire continues to elevate India's hospitality and MICE landscape.
Time Out
17-07-2025
- Business
- Time Out
Bangkok's next great landmark is a lantern
Bangkok's skyline is constantly evolving with new landmarks like the One Bangkok development, EA Rooftop at The Empire, and Cloud 11. But if you think the city has run out of room for more, think again. In a city where ancient temples sit alongside cutting-edge skyscrapers and creativity flows as freely as the Chao Phraya River, a new cultural icon is about to rise. And this time, it takes the shape of a traditional Thai lantern. Back in 2024, Narai Hotel, a long-standing fixture in the Silom neighbourhood, announced its closure for renovation after welcoming guests for nearly 56 years. Naturally, many wondered what would take its place. Now, there's an exciting update: the site won't simply reopen as Narai Hotel. Instead, it will become part of a larger mixed-use development called Hatai, created in partnership with Six Senses, part of the luxury IHG Hotels & Resorts family. Hatai will bring together a reimagined Narai Hotel and a Six Senses property, along with a public plaza, canal restoration and open-air community spaces. While it may sound like another upscale addition to the Big Mango, what truly sets this venture apart is its visionary design led by none other than Heatherwick Studio. If you haven't heard of Heatherwick Studio before, you might still recognise their work, like The Vessel at Hudson Yards in New York. For the very first time, this world-renowned firm is bringing its signature style to Thailand with a project inspired by the beauty and symbolism of Thai lanterns. Instead of another glass-and-steel tower, Thomas Heatherwick and his team set out to create something that respects the country's architectural heritage while standing out from the rest of the skyline. Structures are made up of stacked, glowing volumes with textured surfaces that soften the edges and catch the light, breaking away from the flat, repetitive facades often seen in the area. Elevated walkways will link the site to nearby streets, offering shaded paths and easier access. Over 5,000 square metres of public space, including green areas and a restored canal, will create a place that's not just for guests, but for the whole community to enjoy. Even though it's still under construction and won't open until 2028, you can already tell it's going to bring a spark of something different to the city's skyline. And who knows – maybe it'll become one of those places everyone wants to see.
Forbes
15-07-2025
- Forbes
Six Senses Rome Offers Excitement And Relaxation For The Jubilee Year
Six Senses Rome offers Christian pilgrims a serene retreat. John Athimaritis As Rome continues to celebrate its Jubilee year, attracting by some estimates more than 30 million Christian pilgrims, the Eternal City's holy sites are teeming with activities. Pilgrims visiting Rome will be able to pass through the Holy Doors of St. Peter's Basilica, San Giovanni in Laterano, Santa Maria Maggiore and San Paolo Fuori le Mura, which are all major basilicas in Rome. A wide range of events, including special masses and processions, will be held throughout the Jubilee year in Rome and other designated holy sites, according to the Vatican. Initially, Jubilees were celebrated every 100 years, then every 50 years, and now typically every 25 years. Six Senses provides a respite for rest, reflection and renewal John Athimaritis Rome pulses with vibrant energy, but for those seeking both the city's buzz and a sense of calm, Six Senses Rome offers the perfect balance — a serene, wellness-driven retreat at its heart. With so much happening around the world, many travelers are turning to vacations as a way to reset, looking not just for adventure, but for rest, reflection and renewal. Six Senses Rome not only allows travelers to immerse in the city's culture and history but also provides options for relaxation. Known for its commitment to wellness, sustainability and experiential luxury, the Six Senses brand creates immersive sanctuaries that connect guests to nature, community and self. In Rome, this philosophy is thoughtfully expressed in a serene green oasis in the heart of the Eternal City, blending ancient Roman heritage with contemporary design by Patricia Urquiola. Set within a restored 15th-century Palazzo on Via del Corso, Six Senses Rome features natural materials, calming neutral tones and lush greenery throughout. The ambiance is peaceful yet sophisticated, with elements like travertine, cocciopesto plaster and a modern multi-level spa including Roman baths. Rome is famous for its historical sites. getty Perfectly positioned within walking distance of landmarks like the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and Roman Forum, the hotel immerses guests in the rich cultural tapestry of the city while offering a restorative escape. Wellness, sustainability and a strong sense of place define every detail, from the plant-filled rooftop to the biohacking spa rituals. It's a tranquil, luxurious retreat amid Rome's vibrant energy. Hotel guests can experience the Roman baths. John Athimaritis Ancient Inspired Wellness Experiences: In Roman times the bathhouse was a place to meet and connect with people, and at Six Senses Rome guests are invited to experience this tradition through a modern lens with the hotel's Roman Baths featuring a series of thermal pools for relaxing the mind and body. Guests can dine while savoring splendid views of the city. John Athimaritis Oasis for Outdoor Dining: Perched atop the property, the recently reopened NOTOS Rooftop is a serene rooftop escape where guests can savor breathtaking views of the city without the overwhelming crowds. Toast to the sunset with Roman-inspired botanical cocktails, expertly crafted mocktails, live music sessions and a curated selection of delicious bites. Sustainability Rooted in Culture and Community: Located in Rome's UNESCO World Heritage historic center, the hotel combines heritage preservation with a strong commitment to social and environmental responsibility. The LEED Gold–certified hotel operates on 100% renewable energy and supports local projects. By fostering community collaboration and sustainable practices, the property invites travelers to connect deeply with Rome while embracing responsible, meaningful travel. Wellness Tailored for the Mindful Traveler: At the hotel's spa, smart technology and expert care combine to personalize treatments, activities, and nutrition. With advanced diagnostics and visiting practitioners, guests deepen their connection to self and surroundings, gaining tools to maintain balance long after their stay. Six Senses Rome is the brand's first hotel to open in Italy. The 15th-century Palazzo Salviati Cesi Mellini, which Six Senses Rome calls its home, is an expertly restored building that recently received the LEED Gold certification for sustainable design and construction. The hotel includes sustainable design by architect Patricia Urquoila and various historical architectural layers are preserved throughout the building, including the 600-year-old columns and the 1,700-year-old baptism site that can be seen from the hotel's ground floor. The hotel features a customized lighting control system, and meters on each floor and at each outlet to carefully monitor energy usage. The opening of Six Senses Rome in 2023 also marked the completed renovation of the magnificent facade of the adjacent San Marcello al Corso Church, the first sustainability project sponsored by the hotel. Built over 80 years throughout the XVI century, San Marcello Al Corso Church includes the protected remains of Rome's oldest known baptism sanctuary, dating back to the IV century, and can be found under the shared basement. The hotel's Earth Lab is the epicenter of its sustainability efforts. Guests can partake in interactive workshops and engage with local community members invited for their knowledge of local craftsmanship and sustainability. The hotel hosts Sustainability Talks and Future Monday's series that invite the community to engage in meaningful conversations around environmental and social issues. It also partners with community-based environmental and social projects, and 0.5% of the hotel's revenue goes toward the dedicated Sustainability Fund. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes The Uber-Rich Are Flocking To This Small Mountain Town By Roger Sands Forbes How To Best Experience The Great American Road Trip By Roger Sands
