YTL Hotels is delighted to announce the official opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui after much global anticipation. Friday 8th June saw prominent local and international guests arriving at the captivating island destination and were welcomed to celebrate its official opening that evening. Located on the tropical island paradise of Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand, the resort seamlessly combines the brand’s legendary service with the traditional spirit of Thai hospitality and colourful Samui island life culture to create a unique melting pot of indelible new memories.
The evening saw guests embracing Thai pomp and ceremony that included a thoughtfully crafted dinner designed by Executive Chef Jose Chelo Ballester, showcasing distinctive Thai influences and live traditional Thai music by local island performers. The elegantly decorated Baan Talat was the perfect alfresco setting for the exquisite 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. A heartwarming moment filled the air when the Ladies and Gentlemen of the resort joined Mahmoud Skaf on stage for The Samui Way of Life Opening Countdown. Guests were treated to a chic after-party entertained by an international DJ at the beach where the celebration continued into the night.
“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.
The Ritz-Carlton, 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.
Resting beneath the shade of swaying coconut trees, 175 exquisite suites and pool villas echo local architectural aesthetics and contemporarily designed interiors with soothing colour palette tones. Expansive windows and verandas invite natural light in, transforming suites and villas into light, airy private havens complemented by views of landscaped gardens or panoramic ocean scenes over the Gulf of Thailand.
The resort’s gastronomic experiences 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 the finest ingredients sourced from local markets daily and offers views over the swim reef from its private dining alcoves; Sea Salt, where international classics and Thai favourites are savoured 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.
Inspired by the therapeutic properties of natural local ingredients and age-old healing practices of the region, the 3,800 square metre Spa Village Koh Samui respects the environment, culture and traditions to create holistic and rejuvenating spa programmes. Guests can experience the Songkran Shower, the signature pre-spa ritual inspired by the annual Songkran festival involving the joyful throwing of water, as a prelude to selected spa treatments. The spa includes eight treatment suites, three massage pavilions, a yoga pavilion, health bar, and a lap pool with intimate cabanas.
For a wholly immersive experience of the local culture, the resort has curated some of the most unique and authentic activities that afford glimpses into the vibrant local life, including Muay Thai (The Art of Eight Limbs), an effective fighting system and an ancient sport that hones one’s agility and speed. Additionally, guests can sign up for a journey to a local market to source seasonal produce, followed by a culinary class to unlock secrets of southern Thai cooking.
The resort features a one-of-a-kind temperate Swim Reef that teems with over 50 species of fish. It is the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia and offers unique snorkelling and fish-feeding experiences. Two pristine beaches, a beachside pool and two floodlit tennis courts are available for enjoyment and relaxation. The Ritz Kids programme, with a dedicated playroom, encourages indoor and outdoor activities where cherished family moments are made of.
Unforgettable bespoke weddings are a signature at the resort. Lifetime vows can be exchanged at Sala Thai, an elevated pavilion overlooking the breathtaking Gulf of Thailand.
The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui is set to inspire life’s most meaningful journey – through The Samui Way of Life.
