Search Results forsamui
Santiburi Koh Samui gives a seasonal twist to the 100 Miles Dining Programme
Santiburi Koh Samui, the luxury retreat by S Hotels & Resorts, is ushering in the new season with a refreshed 100 Miles Dining Programme at its signature Sala Thai at Santiburi restaurant, a beloved culinary landmark for over 30 years. The five-course set continues to celebrate authentic Thai cuisine crafted exclusively from ingredients sourced within 100 miles of the resort, with the head chef personally handpicking fresh produce from local markets and the resort’s own organic garden, ensuring the highest quality and authenticity in every dish. Every dish on the menu supports local fishermen, farmers and small-scale producers, with all ingredients either wild-caught or naturally harvested. At its heart, the menu is a love letter to the coconut, sourced exclusively from traditional Koh Phangan farms renowned for their naturally creamy sweetness, while the seafood arrives fresh daily from trusted local vendors. The initiative also champions S Hotels & Resorts’ new “Green Button” initiative: for every 100 Miles Set Menu ordered, a tree will be planted at Chiang Rai’s Singha Park, supporting reforestation and sustainability education. The chef handpicks fresh herbs from Santiburi Koh Samui’s own organic garden. The flavourful journey begins with Hor Mok Talay, a delicate, spiced coconut custard infused with fresh Surat Thani seafood, artfully served in a mini coconut shell as a tribute to Samui’s most iconic fruit. Traditionally steamed in banana leaf cups, this classic Thai dish is reimagined by the chefs, who elevate its presentation while honouring the island’s celebrated coconut heritage. The shell not only enhances visual appeal but also offers a final touch: tender coconut flesh to enjoy afterwards, serving as a natural palate cleanser that gently softens the spice. Tom Yam Goong with a fragrant coconut water broth. For the starter, Samui Lobster Carpaccio pairs the island’s sweet, meaty lobster with playful tom yum caviar and a crisp peanut cracker. The soup course, Tom Yam Goong, is reimagined with a fragrant coconut water broth, offering a lighter, more aromatic take on the classic. The main, Surf ’n’ Earth, pairs slow-cooked, grain-fed beef cheeks from a local farm in Nakhon Si Thammarat, certified by the Department of Livestock Development, with wild-caught Samui red snapper. The tender beef cheeks are slow cooked to perfection and paired with a stir-fried Malindjo leaf mousse and crispy egg, inspired by the Southern Thai favourite Bai Liang Pad Khai (Stir Fried Malindjo Leaves with Eggs), finished with a rich red curry sauce. The red snapper is complemented by local squash mousse and elevated with bold, house-made Surat-style yellow crab curry sauce. Savour the whole coconut, reimagined with chocolate and raspberries. To conclude the culinary journey, Chocolate Coconut Parfait with Raspberries pays homage to the coconut in both form and flavour, balancing creamy sweetness with a bright, tart berry accent. Inspired by the anatomy of a mature coconut, with its rich brown shell and pure white flesh, the dessert is artfully crafted as a half shell: a delicate chocolate exterior encasing a silky coconut parfait. Every element celebrates the island’s most iconic fruit. The chocolate, supplied by a local Samui artisan, underscores Thailand’s rich terroir and dedication to homegrown ingredients. Finished with fresh raspberries, this playful yet sophisticated finale invites guests to savour the “whole coconut” in a beautifully reimagined, edible form. Slow-cooked beef cheeks with melinjo leaf mousse and crispy egg. The 100 Miles Dining Programme is available exclusively at Sala Thai and is priced at THB 2,900++ per person, with optional wine pairing at THB 1,250++. Guests can also enjoy the menu as part of a specially curated room package, priced from THB 8,850+++, which includes accommodation, daily breakfast for two, one “100 Miles Dining” experience at Sala Thai Restaurant for two for every two paid nights, and 20% off the à la carte menu at Sala Thai.
Santiburi Koh Samui starts a new season with its 100 Miles Dining Programme
S Hotels & Resorts’ luxury retreat Santiburi Koh Samui ushers in the new season with a refreshed 100 Miles Dining Programme at its signature Sala Thai at Santiburi restaurant. Koh Samui's foremost culinary landmark continues to celebrate authentic Thai cuisine with a five-course set meal crafted exclusively from ingredients sourced within 100 miles of the resort. To do so, Santiburi’s head chef personally hand-picks fresh produce from local markets and the resort’s own organic garden, ensuring the highest quality and authenticity in every dish. The 100 Miles Dining Programme is available exclusively at Sala Thai and is priced at THB 2,900++ per person, with optional wine pairing at THB 1,250++. Guests can also enjoy the menu as part of a specially curated room package, priced from THB 8,850+++, which includes accommodation, daily breakfast for two, one 100 Miles Dining experience at Sala Thai Restaurant for two for every two paid nights, and 20 percent off the à la carte menu at Sala Thai. Support where it matters Every dish on the menu supports local fishermen, farmers and small-scale producers, with all ingredients either wild-caught or naturally harvested. At its heart, the menu is a love letter to the coconut, sourced exclusively from traditional Koh Phangan farms renowned for their naturally creamy sweetness, while the seafood arrives fresh daily from trusted local vendors. The initiative also champions S Hotels & Resorts’ new Green Button initiative: for every 100 Miles Set Menu ordered, a tree will be planted at Chiang Rai’s Singha Park, supporting reforestation and sustainability education. A gastronomic experience through Thai flavours The flavourful journey begins with Hor Mok Talay, a delicate, spiced coconut custard infused with fresh Surat Thani seafood, artfully served in a mini coconut shell as a tribute to Samui’s most iconic fruit. Traditionally steamed in banana leaf cups, this classic Thai dish is reimagined by the chefs, who elevate its presentation while honouring the island’s celebrated coconut heritage. The shell not only enhances visual appeal but also offers a final touch: tender coconut flesh to enjoy afterwards, serving as a natural palate cleanser that gently softens the spice. For the starter, Samui Lobster Carpaccio pairs the island’s sweet, meaty lobster with playful tom yum caviar and a crisp peanut cracker. The soup course, Tom Yam Goong, is reimagined with a fragrant coconut water broth, offering a lighter, more aromatic take on the classic. The main, Surf ’n’ Earth, pairs slow-cooked, grain-fed beef cheeks from a local farm in Nakhon Si Thammarat, certified by the Department of Livestock Development, with wild-caught Samui red snapper. The tender beef cheeks are slow cooked to perfection and paired with a stir-fried Malindjo leaf mousse and crispy egg, inspired by the Southern Thai favourite Bai Liang Pad Khai (Stir Fried Malindjo Leaves with Eggs), finished with a rich red curry sauce. The red snapper is complemented by local squash mousse and elevated with bold, house-made Surat-style yellow crab curry sauce. To conclude the culinary journey, Chocolate Coconut Parfait with Raspberries pays homage to the coconut in both form and flavour, balancing creamy sweetness with a bright, tart berry accent. Inspired by the structure of a mature coconut, with its rich brown shell and pure white flesh, the dessert is artfully crafted as a half shell: a delicate chocolate exterior encasing a silky coconut parfait; every element celebrates the island’s most iconic fruit. The chocolate, supplied by a local Samui artisan, underscores Thailand’s rich terroir and dedication to homegrown ingredients. Finished with fresh raspberries, this playful yet sophisticated finale invites guests to savour the “whole coconut” in a beautifully reimagined, edible form.
Centara Reserve Samui names Olivier Pauchard as new F&B director
Centara Hotels & Resorts' luxury flagship property Centara Reserve Samui recently appointed Olivier Pauchard as its new director of food and beverage. Pauchard brings a fresh perspective and creative leadership to the resort's acclaimed dining experiences. In his new role, he will oversee all food and beverage operations at Centara Reserve Samui, shaping the resort's gastronomic vision and ensuring consistency of quality, creativity, and service across every outlet. His focus will be on elevating dining concepts, fostering team development, and driving sustainable growth aligned with the resort's commitment to refined, experiential luxury. He said of his appointment:"I'm honoured to join Centara Reserve Samui and to contribute to a property that already defines sophisticated island luxury. My goal is to build on this foundation, inspiring our teams to craft moments that resonate with guests long after they leave." Meet Olivier Pauchard A results-driven hospitality professional, Pauchard joins Centara Reserve Samui with over a decade of experience in luxury hotels and resorts across Asia and Europe. Known for his innovative approach to operational excellence and people-first leadership, he has earned a reputation for curating distinctive culinary identities and delivering exceptional guest experiences. Prior to joining Centara Reserve Samui, Olivier served as acting F&B director at Pimalai Resort & Spa, where he successfully led a team of 150 across seven outlets. During his tenure, he guided the resort to record revenues, launched new dining concepts, and contributed to Pimalai earning two Michelin Keys, as well as recognition among Thailand's top three resorts by Condé Nast Traveler. A graduate in Hospitality & Tourism Management and a certified WSET Level 2 professional, Pauchard represents a new generation of hospitality leaders, strategic, authentic, and passionate about creating memorable experiences through food, service, and storytelling.
Koh Samui rises as one of Asia’s most dynamic wellness and sports tourism hubs
Asia is now seeing the rise of Koh Samui as one of region’s most dynamic integrated wellness and sports tourism destinations. Moving beyond its identity as a luxury island escape, Samui is embracing global trends that merge wellbeing, active living, and performance to redefine how travellers experience health and connection. Indeed, given how Thailand continues to lead Asia’s wellness economy, with tourism as its driving force, Koh Samui is emerging as a destination where tropical serenity meets transformative wellness and sports innovation. Taking wellness beyond the spa These opportunities were at the forefront of The C9 Sessions – Koh Samui Wellness Tourism “Beyond the Spa." The event brought together global experts and investors to explore how the island can evolve into Asia’s new model for holistic wellbeing and active lifestyle travel. Ingo Schweder, founder and chief executive of GOCO Hospitality as well as managing director of Horwath HTL Health & Wellness pointed out:“In the global wellness economy, we’re now larger than fashion or pharmaceuticals. Schweder, however, added that real success depends on integrity and not on wellness washing. He said: "Guests today expect authenticity and results. Koh Samui has the opportunity to set new benchmarks by developing properties that deliver measurable outcomes, whether in wellness, longevity, or performance.” Schweder also identified longevity medicine, precision health, and spiritual wellbeing as key growth areas, supported by a rising demand for meaningful, results-oriented experiences that integrate health across all aspects of hospitality. Where wellness and sports come together A driving force behind this evolution is the Maraleina Sports Resort, one of the island’s most ambitious project. The massive development centres on five pillars: football, swimming, fitness, racquet sports, and family. That said, it boasts of world-class facilities including FIFA-standard pitches, high-performance gyms, and recovery zones designed for athletes and wellness travelers alike. Maraleina Group director of marketing and business development Marcelo Fonseca remarked: “Our vision started with a passion for sport and a belief in Samui’s potential. What began as a dream to create opportunity for local youth through Samui United has grown into a full ecosystem connecting wellness, community, and family. Millennials and Gen Z travelers aren’t just seeking relaxation: they want to move, connect, and take charge of their own wellbeing. Sport is becoming the gateway to their wellness journey.” Maraleina’s partnership with the Paris Saint-Germain Academy positions Koh Samui within an elite international sports network, offering young Thai athletes the chance to train at global standards while elevating the island’s profile as a destination for health-minded visitors. For Mika Chunuonsee, former Thai national footballer and business development manager at Maraleina, sport’s community impact is central to Samui’s story. Chunuonsee declared: “Sports tourism is about people and purpose. Through Samui United, we’re building opportunities for local players and inspiring youth across the island. But it’s also about engaging visitors who want more than sightseeing: they want to train, play, and recover in a place that shares their lifestyle values. Samui offers that perfect blend of authenticity and ambition.” The changing face of Koh Samui as a destination As global travel continues to evolve, the convergence of wellness and sport is reshaping how destinations compete. Hybrid concepts where recovery meets performance, and mindfulness meets movement are becoming powerful differentiators. Thailand’s wellness market valued at THB 1.4 trillion in 2023, driven by strong growth in wellness tourism. According to C9 Hotelworks managing director Bill Barnett: “The convergence of wellness and sport gives Samui year-round vitality. These segments aren’t seasonal. They bring resilience, attract international travelers, and move Samui beyond traditional leisure. With its natural assets and innovative projects, the island is well positioned to become Asia’s next wellness and active lifestyle capital.” From luxury longevity resorts to grassroots football academies, Koh Samui’s transformation reflects a global shift in travel: one driven by wellness, community, and the pursuit of better living.
Koh Samui’s Kamalaya gives guests five key reasons to come over
With its exquisite mix of traditional and contemporary wellness modalities, Kamalaya is the perfect getaway for those in need of a restful respite Wellness retreat Kamalaya in Koh Samui offers holistic health solutions to the anxiety, stress and numerous other challenges posed by the ever-changing world around us. The retreat’s unique approach to wellness combines ancient Eastern healing traditions with Western medical research to achieve life-enhancing results. Each programme is enriched by the expertise of Naturopaths, Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners, Yoga teachers, fitness trainers, massage therapists, Meditation and Life Enhancement Mentors, along with a variety of other complementary health professionals. On 11th November, Kamalaya will mark 20 years at the forefront of the wellness industry, unveiling new technology and programming designed to enhance the guest experience. Five reasons to come to Kamalaya With over 80 prestigious international awards, here are the top five reasons to visit now: Introducing the Cognitive House Officially opened in February of this year, the Cognitive House is a sanctuary within a sanctuary, designed to enhance cognitive function and mental wellbeing, awaken the mind's vast potential and restore inner clarity. Guests can experience results-oriented treatments with carefully curated therapies ranging from Neuro-Lymphatic Therapy and Neurofeedback to Neuromodulation and Transcranial Photobiomodulation Therapy. Each treatment is thoughtfully integrated into Kamalaya's holistic philosophy and crafted to unlock the powerful potential of the brain. Get with the programme for brain enhancement Introduced in May of this year, the Brain Enhancement wellness programme reflects Kamalaya's core philosophy of harmonizing healing therapies, integrative medicine and personalized wellness solutions. This comprehensive initiative combines advanced IV infusions, the Kamalaya Essentials supplement line, fitness and movement practices, cognitive therapies and holistic activities. Designed to nurture mental clarity and optimize cognitive function, the program empowers guests to unlock their mental potential while laying a transformative foundation for achieving enhanced brain health and overall wellbeing. Personal Wellness Guardians bring care beyond your stay Kamalaya's Wellness Guardians embody the sanctuary's commitment to lifelong transformation. These trusted guides offer heartfelt support across multiple time zones, ensuring that each guest feels nurtured and cared for before arrival, throughout their stay, and up to a year after departure. With gentle guidance, the Wellness Guardians help weave the essence of Kamalaya into daily life, making the journey of healing and growth an ongoing experience rather than a moment in time. Radiant health for women at any stage of life Initially offered in 2023, Radiant Bliss continues to offer women a nurturing space to reconnect with their natural rhythms. By doing so, they care freely embrace the many transitions of life with grace and vitality. Through personalised therapies, compassionate guidance and a carefully curated blend of somatic practices, breathwork and sound healing, the program supports balance, renewal and inner harmony at every stage from fertility and motherhood, to perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. The quintessential Thai Detox getaway Kamalaya's natural landscape of granite boulders, lush jungle canopies, and sweeping sea views allows guests to fully immerse in the restorative rhythm of the surroundings. The signature cuisine is an integral part of the holistic wellness philosophy. Rooted in the principles of functional medicine, it embraces the concept of “food as medicine” and is designed to support cellular detoxification, reduce inflammation, and restore balance to the body. The diverse team of chefs bring together global culinary expertise with a shared passion for wholesome, fresh, locally sourced ingredients and mindful cooking methods. The result is a vibrant and nourishing dining experience that not only delights the senses but also inspires sustainable lifestyle transformation, supporting body, mind, and spirit.
C9 Hotelworks: Koh Samui tourism and hospitality grew steadily in early 2025
Hospitality and travel consultancy C9 Hotelworks reports that the Koh Samui hotel and tourism market is demonstrating solid growth through the first four months of 2025. Per the Samui Hotel & Tourism Market Review 2025, growth in the sectors was supported by strong air and cruise arrivals, stable hotel performance metrics, and impressive European market engagement. Between January and April of this year, Koh Samui International Airport recorded 1,127,832 passenger arrivals, representing a nine percent increase over the same period in 2024. This follows a strong performance in 2024, which saw total air arrivals reach 2.78 million, reflecting an increase of 21 percent year-on-year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Cruise tourism also contributed to overall growth, as the island welcomed 35 cruise ships carrying 65,792 passengers in the first four months of 2025, marking a six percent year-on-year increase. In 2024, Samui hosted 50 cruise liners, nearly doubling the number of arrivals compared to the prior year. C9 Hotelworks managing director Bill Barnett said: “Koh Samui is increasingly attracting wellness-focused travelers who are contributing to a shift in the island’s tourism profile. Properties such as Kamalaya continue to lead the way in capturing this segment, characterized by year-round visitation and longer average stays. We’re seeing Thailand, and Samui in particular, benefiting from a global uptick in wellness tourism, which offers strong potential for sustainable, high-value growth in the hospitality sector.” Resilience as 2025 came in Hotel sector performance remained resilient, as occupancy levels peaked in January 2025 with an 8% increase year-on-year. While there was some softening in Q1 during the Chinese New Year period, overall 2024 occupancy rose 12 percent compared to 2023. Average Daily Rate (ADR) continued to climb, with a nine percent year-on-year increase in 2024 and a notable 21 percent year-on-year rise recorded in April 2025 STR’s Asia Pacific area director Jesper Palmqvist remarked: “Koh Samui’s hotel performance in early 2025 reflects a steady and encouraging trend. We’re seeing meaningful growth in both occupancy and average daily rates, signaling sustained demand in key source markets and a positive pricing environment. The market is not only recovering but also showing signs of structural stability, supported by disciplined supply growth and targeted international connectivity.” Europe remains the leading international source region, accounting for 56 percent of arrivals in 2024, driven by travelers from Germany, the United Kingdom, and France. Growth in these markets has been supported by expanded codeshare agreements between Bangkok Airways and 30 global carriers. Another boost to airlift is the Singapore Airlines Scoot service which not only services regional travelers but links into SQ’s Lion City hub for long-haul passengers’ easy transit. Remko Kroensen, area general manager for Banyan Tree Samui and Banyan Tree Krabi, weighed in, saying: “The long-haul market has performed exceptionally well for us this year. It's been a key strategic focus, and we're pleased to see that effort translating into strong results.” In the pipeline Meanwhile, the hotel development pipeline within the area signals continued investor confidence, and Koh Samui currently has 634 registered accommodation providers with 24,188 keys. While overall supply has remained stable with a five-year CAGR of one percent, new branded properties are scheduled to open in the near term, including Nivata Koh Samui (Tapestry Collection by Hilton, opening Q4 2025) and SO/ by Sofitel and Fivelements Samui (both expected in 2026). Centara Reserve Samui’s director of sales and marketing Thansita Sirapastuwanon said: “The pandemic challenged us to rethink luxury through safety, sustainability, and innovation. As travel rebounds, demand from both traditional and emerging markets continues to strengthen Koh Samui’s position as a leading luxury destination.” With regard to further prospects for this year, Barnett remarked optimistically: “Barring any external disruptions, sustained demand from European and Asian source markets, combined with limited new hotel supply and ongoing infrastructure investment, are expected to support continued growth in arrivals, hotel occupancy, and rates throughout the remainder of the year.”
Koh Samui’s Golden Lotus Villas are now part of Elite Havens
Asian luxury villa management and rental provider Elite Havens recently expanded its portfolio in Koh Samui with the addition of Golden Lotus Villas. The Golden Lotus Villas are a stunning new collection of high-end residences perched in the lush hills of Koh Samui that pair refined contemporary design with panoramic ocean views. That said, the Golden Lotus Villas set a new benchmark in private tropical escapes. According to Elite Havens’ cluster country director for Thailand and Japan Femke Beekers: “At Golden Lotus Villas, we’ve created a sanctuary that celebrates the beauty of Koh Samui through contemporary architecture, world-class comfort, and personalised Elite Havens service. It’s a place to slow down, reconnect, and indulge in the essence of island luxury. Yet, it’s just moments away from the vibrant energy and bustling scenes for those seeking a livelier pace.” The jewel of the headland Located on the prestigious Bophut headland and overlooking the shimmering coastline from Bophut to Chaweng, this exclusive estate features six meticulously designed villas: The Blossom, The Flourish, The Harmony, The Purity, The Tranquil, and Villa Vie. Each one offers an elevated experience of privacy, comfort, and sophistication. Golden Lotus’ showcase villa in the estate is Villa Vie, a six-bedroom residence that offers a refined take on island living, with seamless indoor-outdoor spaces and panoramic sea views from every vantage point. The expansive outdoor area features an infinity pool, ample lounge seating, and a picturesque setting for enjoying sunsets with family and friends. Inside, the villa boasts a spacious open-plan layout, thoughtfully designed with high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, and contemporary furnishings that create a bright, welcoming atmosphere. Designed for modern travellers seeking understated elegance, each of the Golden Lotus villas boast expansive indoor-outdoor living spaces, minimalist architecture, and sleek interiors inspired by Thai design aesthetics. With configurations ranging from two to six bedrooms, the villas cater to families, groups of friends celebrating a milestone, couples in search of a secluded getaway, or corporate escapes. What to expect from each of the Golden Lotus Villas Villa Vie: Perched high above the lush, tropical landscape of Koh Samui, Villa Vie offers an unrivaled vantage point from its eagle’s nest setting in the mountains. This six-bedroom sanctuary is a visual feast from every angle, with panoramic sea views that unfold in every room. The Blossom Villa: A three-bedroom retreat with captivating ocean views, designer furnishings, and curated artwork throughout. The Harmony Villa: Spread across three levels, this four-bedroom villa is ideal for larger groups and can be split into two independent units. The Flourish Villa: Intimate yet spacious, this three-bedroom villa features a long plunge pool and a seamless flow from interior to terrace. The Purity Villa: Nestled next to The Blossom, this three-bedroom villa mirrors the estate’s serene design ethos with its artistic touches and rainforest backdrop. The Tranquil Villa: A flexible four-bedroom layout with modern design, perfect for families or friends travelling together. The Golden Lotus Villas estate also provides a host of thoughtful amenities including private pools, daily housekeeping, optional private chef services, and airport transfers. Guests are never far from Koh Samui’s vibrant culinary and nightlife scene yet enjoy total seclusion and serenity within their villa.
Kapuhala Koh Samui hailed Best Vegan Resort and Restaurant by PETA Asia
Eco-centric Thai resort Kapuhala Koh Samui recently received PETA Asia's prestigious Best Vegan Restaurant and Resort award. The recognition highlights the resort's dedication to offering an exceptional vegan culinary experience and sustainable, health-conscious accommodations that align with PETA's core values of compassion, sustainability, and wellness. General manager and head chef Crystal Lee Passarello declared: "We are incredibly honoured to receive this recognition from PETA Asia. This award is a testament to the hard work and passion of our team, who continually strive to offer our guests a great culinary experience without harming animals or the environment.” Passarello added that, at Kapuhala Koh Samui, wellness and sustainability go hand in hand, and that the resort is a sanctuary where people can connect with nature and enjoy delicious plant-based Italian cuisine in a stunning environment. PETA Asia's annual awards celebrate businesses and organizations that go above and beyond in advocating for animal rights, environmental stewardship, and cruelty-free living. Kapuhala Koh Samui's win underscores the growing demand for plant-based, eco-friendly experiences in the hospitality industry. Plant-based pleasure Kapuhala Koh Samui stands out not only for its stunning natural beauty but also for its unwavering commitment to plant-based living. The resort offers a wide range of vegan dishes at its celebrated restaurant, Halapua, featuring locally sourced ingredients and modern Sicilian and Italian recipes that cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Inherited from sister resort Kapuhala Sicily, the menu includes everything from colorful, vegetable-forward main courses to unique desserts, all crafted with the highest attention to quality and sustainability. In addition to its celebrated restaurant, Kapuhala Koh Samui is a haven for those looking to escape into nature while embracing an eco-luxury lifestyle. The resort offers beautiful tented villas, wellness retreats, and an array of sustainable practices that minimize its environmental impact, including waste reduction, water conservation, and eco-friendly building materials. Kapuhala Koh Samui's commitment to sustainability and wellness has earned it a reputation as a top destination for conscious travelers. The resort's vegan offerings, which combine modern cuisine with vibrant, natural flavors, serve as a beacon for those seeking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while exploring the beauty of Thailand.
Banyan Tree Samui: Embracing the White Lotus Effect
Koh Samui, Thailand’s tropical paradise, has recently found itself in the spotlight thanks to the hit U.S. TV series The White Lotus. The third season, which premiered in February 2025, was filmed primarily on the island, captivating audiences around the world with its stunning scenery and lush landscapes. This newfound attention, fondly dubbed “The White Lotus Effect,” has sparked a surge in interest from travellers keen to explore the idyllic beauty of Koh Samui. Among the island’s many gems is Banyan Tree Samui, a MICHELIN-listed luxury resort perched on a picturesque hillside overlooking sapphire-blue seas. Although The White Lotus was not filmed at the property, its panoramic vistas and verdant rainforest setting bear a striking resemblance to the show’s most iconic scenes. Seizing this moment, Banyan Tree Samui has unveiled a host of innovative offerings inspired by the island’s newfound prestige. The White Lotus-Inspired Experience From the moment guests arrive, Banyan Tree Samui provides touches reminiscent of The White Lotus. Locally infused welcome amenities greet visitors, while the resort’s Wellbeing Sanctuary programs—including yoga, meditation, and fitness sessions—offer the perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate amidst nature. At the Banyan Tree Spa Samui, the newly introduced Sense of Lotus spa package takes indulgence to a new level. The 120-minute treatment begins with a White Lotus Polisher, a gentle exfoliation using bead powder from lotus seeds, followed by a soothing Sense of Lotus body massage to calm the mind and body. For sunset lovers, the White Lotus cocktail is a must-try. This tropical masterpiece blends vodka, white rum, lychee juice, lime juice, and coconut milk, garnished with fresh lychee and dried Damask rose petals, making it the ideal way to toast the day. Explore Koh Samui from Sea Adding to the experience, Banyan Tree Samui offers a private speedboat, Sense of the Sea, which guests can charter to recreate their own White Lotus-inspired day trip. Explore the captivating limestone islets of Mu Koh Ang Thong Marine Park, a prominent filming location in the series, or uncover hidden gems within the Gulf of Thailand’s vibrant marine ecosystem. Luxurious Living with Spectacular Views Each of Banyan Tree Samui’s 88 villas features its own private infinity pool, offering guests the ultimate in privacy and comfort. Tiered into the hillside, the resort spans an impressive 38 acres, boasting lush flora, a private beach framed by coral reefs, and breathtaking vistas of the surrounding seascape. The resort’s three restaurants—including Saffron, listed in the 2025 MICHELIN Guide—present culinary delights that cater to every palate. For relaxation, guests can unwind at the award-winning spa featuring Banyan Tree’s signature Rainforest hydrotherapy facility, or enjoy the other amenities, including a fitness centre, kids’ club, and a library. Koh Samui’s Time to Shine With the “White Lotus Effect” firmly placing Koh Samui on the world travel map, Banyan Tree Samui stands out as a beacon of luxury and serenity. General Manager Remko Kroesen shares, “Viewers are falling in love with the idea of Koh Samui. This wave of visitors will not only elevate the island’s prestige but also foster a newfound appreciation for its natural beauty.” For those seeking an unforgettable escape, there’s no better time to visit Koh Samui. Whether you’re indulging in world-class spa treatments, sipping on the White Lotus cocktail, or soaking in the stunning views from your private villa, Banyan Tree Samui offers a tropical retreat inspired by the allure of one of television’s most captivating series.
W Koh Samui celebrates women’s empowerment with exceptional luxury
This month, W Koh Samui highlights the strength and beauty of women with an exquisite selection of delectable treats and soothing treatments for International Women’s Day. On Saturday, 8th March, W Koh Samui’s executive sous-chef Bee regaled diners with an exceptional dessert inspired by her mother’s love: the sculptural Mamuang Prik Kleur. Served to celebrate International Women’s Day and exclusively offered to ladies dining at The Kitchen Table on the day, the dessert is a delectable fusion of green mango mousse, chilli and sea salt jelly, and guava sorbet. According to chef Bee, Mamuang Prik Kleur is an edible tribute to her mother who introduced her to the world of Thai flavours through her exceptional mastery of traditional specialities. That said, this inspired confection celebrates the warmth, inspiration and creativity her mother instilled in her. A restful, restorative celebration Till 31st March, W Koh Samui’s AWAY Spa offers ladies a special price on all its 60-minute treatments, as well as a complimentary 15-minute extension of their choice. These include muscle-soothing body massages and fragrant scrubs to nourishing body wraps and tailored facials. For those in search of modalities to soothe both body and soul, AWAY Spa is the first facility in Asia to offer Thaimazcal, a herbal sauna and steam bath treatment that combines Thai herbs with Mexico’s deeply spiritual temazcal ritual. Local adventures For ladies seeking to balance tranquillity with adventure, dive into the vibrant nightlife at nearby Chaweng Beach, or try wakeboarding on the north shore’s Maenam Beach. Maenam Beach is also home to many Buddhist landmarks, such as the 36-foot-tall Big Buddha statue, the sacred relic of Buddha’s footprint or temples housing mummified monks. For a taste of local life, join villagers in lively festivals filled with dancing, singing and colourful celebrations, then shop for unique handcrafted treasures made with locally cultivated pearls.
Avani+ Samui
Avani+ Samui Resort, Taling Ngam, Koh Samui, Surat Thani, Thailand
Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort
Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort, Maret, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Buri Rasa Village Samui
Buri Rasa Village Samui, ตำบล บ่อผุด Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Sheraton Samui Resort
Sheraton Samui Resort, อําเภ, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Kamalaya Koh Samui
Kamalaya, Laem-Set Road, Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
SALA Hospitality Group Samui Chaweng Beach Resort
SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort, Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
W Koh Samui
W Koh Samui, Mae Nam, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
U Samui
U Samui, Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Conrad Samui
Conrad Koh Samui, Hillcrest Road Taling Ngam, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Kimpton Kitalay Samui
Kimpton Kitalay Samui, Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Silavadee Resort Koh Samui
Silavadee Pool Spa Resort, Maret, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand Thailand
InterContinental Koh Samui Resort
InterContinental Koh Samui Resort, an IHG Hotel, Taling Ngam, Koh Samui Surat Thani, Thailand
3 nights in Koh Samui and 2 nights in Pattaya catch your interest?? Centara and Cosi Hotels have you covered!
In conjunction with Centara Hotels & Resorts, Cosi Samui Chaweng Beach and Cosi Pattaya Naklua Beach was giving you the opportunity to experience 5 nights total of pure luxury across 2 amazing cities! Just by simply answering a simple question
Win 2 nights in a Ocean front Balcony Pool Suite at SALA Samui Chaweng Beach!
SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort is Koh Samui’s stunning new 5-star pool suite and villa beach resort and spa. Replete with a white sandy beach, luxury pool villas and all the amenities needed to create a magical getaway drenched in sunshine -- it really is the quintessential Asian paradise.
Luxury Oceanfront Pool Villa seeks fun-loving travellers! Apply within
In partnership with TD, Conrad Koh Samui is giving you the opportunity to win two nights in a Oceanfront Pool Villa including breakfast for two all by answering one easy question.
Win the perfect honeymoon with Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel
“There is only one happiness in this life, to love and be loved,” as George Sand once said. A powerful and insightful sentiment from the famous French novelist, and a notion which Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers has taken to heart with the launch of The Journey of Love 2018 – a lucky draw campaign aimed solely at brides and grooms planning to celebrate their nuptials in 2018.