Ms. Charintip Tiyaphorn, Pimalai Resort & Spa, Koh Lanta
In Conversation with Vishakha Talreja

"Sustainability is ingrained in our very ethos. We are glad that travellers appreciate our efforts to not disturb the nature. We know that people visit us to be close to nature"
Ms. Charintip Tiyaphorn, Owner, Pimalai Resort & Spa

Nestled on the picturesque Andaman island of Koh Lanta, Thailand, Pimalai Resort & Spa stands as the epitome of luxury, offering a tranquil retreat amidst 100 acres of tropical jungle leading to the stunning Kantiang Bay. With 121 lavish rooms, this five-star property ensures an unforgettable holiday experience. Guests can spend their days lounging on the seemingly private beach or indulging in thrilling activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, or sunset cruises in the turquoise waters.

While local bars and restaurants dot the coastline, Pimalai’s onsite restaurants is what you should travel for. The renowned Rak Talay beachfront bar and restaurant serve delectable Thai-style seafood against the backdrop of breathtaking sunsets. Meanwhile, Seven Seas, nestled in the resort’s jungle interior, offers Michelin-chef-conceived menus for a memorable dining experience. Guests can also enjoy various wellness activities onsite, from traditional Muay Thai classes to evening tennis matches and pampering sessions at the signature Pimalai Spa.

 

Pimalai Resort & Spa Koh Lanta

 

Ms. Charintip Tiyaphorn, owner of Pimalai Resort, shares insights with us about her property and tourism to Thailand. “Even though Thailand has become a popular destination among Indians, with the recent visa exemption, the percentage of Indian guests at Pimalai remains relatively low. This is partly due to Indians’ tendency to plan holidays at the last minute, resulting in quick sell-outs for us. However, with our aggressive marketing initiatives, we aim to change this and attract more Indian visitors to experience the beauty of Koh Lanta and our two-decade-old property.” The resort is also looking at adding more family villas.

Charintip  gained expertise in resident management in Bangkok before joining her father (the founder of the resort) and becoming a second-generation leader at Pimalai Resort & Spa. From leading marketing campaigns globally to ensuring that guests at Pimalai experience authentic Thai hospitality, she is involved with every aspect of the hotel.

Pimalai Resort & Spa is favored by honeymooners for its romantic ambiance, with families comprising about 20 percent of guests. For families traveling with children, the resort offers plenty of activities to keep them entertained. The resorts also hosts intimate destination weddings.

 

A wellness haven nestled in the beautiful island of Koh Lanta

 

Located two hours from Krabi Airport and about five hours from Phuket, the resort is accessible via direct flights from Delhi to Bangkok and Phuket. Sustainability is ingrained in the property’s ethos, with a focus on preserving Koh Lanta’s natural beauty. “Our USP has always been the island’s nature, and we’ve been mindful not to disrupt it. Travelers now appreciate our efforts in recycling and following sustainable practices,” explains Charintip. Pimalai Resort & Spa offers travelers an opportunity to savor and embrace nature. She is one of the leaders in the local community and works with the local authorities to develop necessary infrastructure and accessibility to put Koh Lanta on the world tourism map.

For travelers seeking an undiscovered gem, Pimalai Resort & Spa is a must-visit destination in 2024.

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