Krabi, Thailand’s gateway to charming white-sand beaches like Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, pristine natural parks, and exuberant nightlife spots—whichever suits your fancy, is much quieter these days. But once tourism reopens in the Thai destination, you can bet travelers will be flocking to its golden shores.
Despite the uncertainty of the current travel landscape, Banyan Tree has unveiled a new 72-room resort on the little-known Tubkaek Beach. The first luxury resort to open in Krabi after 11 years, the property is perched on a verdant hillside overlooking limestone cliffs. Backdropped by a national park and Naga Crest Hill, all of the hotel’s guest rooms offer dramatic views of the sunset over the Andaman, as well as private pool access.
For guests seeking an untouched natural environment to immerse themselves in, Banyan Tree Krabi fits the bill with its proximity to both azure waters and scenic hillsides. In fact, a natural spring flows downhill into the property, setting the scene for a flower-fringed canal that ferries spring water into the sea.
Like most Banyan Tree resorts and hotels, wellness is a recurring theme here, with facilities like a rainforest-themed spa, a fitness centre, and a kids’ club. Inspired by its surroundings, the resort welcomes guests with a naga legend-inspired entrance, featuring emerald sea and karats. For the unacquainted, naga is a sea creature from the Hindu mythology that’s also one of the local legends in Krabi.
General manager Robert Sexton said: “From the lobby, an eye-catching naga staircase leads downstairs to a shaded ‘grotto’, and you’ll see naga-themed design inspirations throughout the hotel, including wavy artwork on the walls and amenities in all the rooms. The designers have clearly applied elements of the natural landscape to create a unique ambience and a sense of place.”
Guests hankering for a lavish experience can go for the seven-room presidential villa, which comes with a myriad of saltwater pools, canals, as well as spacious balconies and terraces. Even the modest deluxe pool suite offers a private terrace, plunge pool and jet pool. Featuring warm tones courtesy of natural materials like wood, stone, and sand, the rooms emanate a relaxing vibe.
As part of the dining program, the resort has three “bird’s nest” tables set among the trees surrounding Saffron restaurant—a prime spot for romantic dinners and sunset views. Meanwhile, there’s also The Naga Kitchen for all-day dining, as well floating breakfasts to be enjoyed in-room.
Enhanced safety and hygiene protocols are also par for course here, in light of the ongoing pandemic. Among these are personalised check-in and check-out in the room, a dedicated butler, as well as complimentary usage of a Portier Smartphone.
More information here.
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