North Phuket Unveils Strategic Destination Rebrand

 

Exciting news out of Thailand, with a group of hoteliers in Phuket coming together to launch a new campaign to attract more visitors to the less-developed north of the island.

More awards for Devasom

Devasom Resorts is pleased to announce that Devasom Khao Lak has been recognised in the Best Luxury Resort category and Devasom Hua Hin in the Best Boutique Resort category for Thailand as part of Tripadvisor’s® Travellers’ Choice® Awards Best of the Best for 2025. This prestigious recognition places both resorts among the top 1% of hospitality experiences worldwide based on genuine traveller reviews.

Barefoot luxury at Let's Sea Hua Hin Al Fresco Resort

From an intimate beachfront eatery to the recently renovated boutique hotel it is today, Let's Sea Hua Hin Al Fresco Resort has undergone a culinary evolution, putting Hua Hin on the food map long before it was a barefoot luxury hotel. The local talent of its kitchen awakens guests' senses to the authentic wonders of Thai cuisine, and hospitality standards transcend across the 40 private suites.

How to go shopping in Thailand

It’s no secret that Thailand is one of the most popular shopper’s paradises. Shopping is a prime item on a Thailand tourist's itinerary. A wide range of beautiful and quality items are on offer everywhere. Clothes, homewares, handicrafts, paintings, furniture, handbags, shoes, jewellery the list of bargains is endless. Having 24-hour service clothes tailored is very good value – especially for men. Department stores and local markets are equally fun and interesting to visit.

Important Update for Travellers to Thailand

Starting 1 May 2025, non-Thai nationals entering Thailand by air, land, or sea must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online prior to the arrival. 

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Banyan Tree Samui Embraces the White Lotus Effect

Banyan Tree Spa Samui has introduced a “Sense of Lotus”
 spa package — a 120-minute rejuvenating treatment

Banyan Tree Samui, a MICHELIN-listed resort overlooking sapphire seas from its vantage point on a lush hillside at the southeastern peninsula of Koh Samui, has announced a series of in-house innovations to celebrate the growing popularity of the island under what has quickly become known as “The White Lotus Effect”.

Where can I change my Australian dollars into Thai Baht?

You can change your dollars into Baht in Australia at exchange centres or banks; however, we recommend waiting and changing some of your money at Bangkok International Airport. You will receive a more favourable exchange rate in Thailand, and the changers at the airport will give you a better rate than the hotels. Banks will also have a more favourable rate than the hotels.

Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are in all major cities and you can draw money directly through your ATM or credit card, provided it has Cirrus or Maestro on it. Be aware that all Thai ATMs will charge a fee of around 200b ($10) on top of any fees your own bank will charge. Better to draw larger amounts than lots of small ones.

If you still use travellers' cheques, in USD or Australian dollars, they are accepted in all major hotels and banks. Major credit cards (American Express, Diners Club, JCB, MasterCard, and VISA) are also accepted in all major banks, restaurants, hotels, and shops. You will also find that new 'tap on' technology is gaining wide acceptance.

TIP: American Express says that you could pay fees that total 6% or more of purchases if you don't pay in the local currency.

Street stalls and markets are usually best with good old cash.

An Andaman Surprise in Krabi

Situated in a quiet corner of tranquil Tubkaek Beach and facing a spectacular panoramic vista of uninhabited limestone islets, Banyan Tree Krabi is an idyllic venue for a special Valentine’s evening surprise. The resort’s beachfront lawn provides an intimate setting for couples with a candlelit dinner under the moonlight. On February 14th, for one night only, the resort offers an outstanding “Scent of Love” 5-course set dinner (9,900 THB per couple, inclusive of one bottle of sparkling wine). An amuse-bouche of crispy beer-battered oyster and rose jam is followed by homemade smoked beet-cured Salmon Gravlax, served with black caviar and salad. After soup and a sorbet, the main dish will be roasted Wagyu Beef Tenderloin Embraces Slow-Braised Beef Cheek in Red Wine Sauce, Asparagus, Truffle Purée, Risotto and Brandy Beef Jus or, alternatively, a fish dish which includes Krabi lobster. The meal will be rounded off with delightful sweets and fresh berries, and, hopefully, some memorable moments of magic. For more information and reservations, contact krabi@banyantree.com or tel: +66 75 811 888.

Exciting New Menu Takes Diners on Culinary Pilgrimage of Thailand

INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit’s all-day dining restaurant The Kites Eatery has unveiled a playful and eclectic menu that celebrates central, northern, north-eastern and southern Thai cuisine.