Dusit International to Manage Luxury Resort and Residences in Phuket

Dusit International to Manage Luxury Resort and Residences in Phuket

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on June 10, 2024

Dusit International, a leading hotel and property development company in Thailand, has entered into a partnership with Phuket-based real estate developer VillaCarte Group to manage a dual-branded luxury hotel and residence project in Phuket. This new development, Layan Verde, is set to open in 2027 and aims to become an iconic destination on the island’s west coast.

Located just 800 meters from Bang Tao Beach, Layan Verde spans over 108,000 square meters and features 15 mid-rise buildings designed by Mohammed Adi, Chief Design Officer at Dewan Architects + Engineers. The design focuses on blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings, incorporating principles of Biophilic Architecture for energy efficiency and sustainability.

The project will consist of two distinct brands: Dusit Collection and Dusit Residences. The Dusit Collection – Layan Verde hotel will be the first under Dusit’s new luxury brand, offering 398 rooms across five buildings. This brand targets luxury hotels in iconic locations, known for their unique architecture and exceptional guest experiences.

image

Dusit Residences – Layan Verde will manage another five buildings with 388 rooms. This brand brings Dusit’s renowned five-star hospitality service to luxury condominiums and apartments, leveraging its extensive experience in managing high-end hotels and resorts globally.

Guests and residents at both Dusit Collection and Dusit Residences Layan Verde will enjoy a range of premium amenities. These include an all-day dining restaurant, a fitness center, a swimming pool, a kids club, a rooftop bar, and expansive banqueting spaces. Additionally, the project will feature a shopping center and an ocean club, enhancing the luxury residential offerings in the region.

In line with VillaCarte Group’s vision for sustainable real estate development and Dusit’s commitment to environmental conservation, the project will adhere to principles of Biophilic Architecture. Interiors will feature eco-friendly, moisture-resistant materials and premium high-quality furniture. Advanced EDGE-certified technology will be used to reduce water and electricity consumption by up to 45%.

Siradej Donavanik, Vice President – Global Development at Dusit International, highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership: “Our partnership with VillaCarte Group represents a unique opportunity to redefine luxury residential living in Phuket. By combining Layan Verde’s stunning location and commitment to sustainable design with Dusit’s over 75 years of experience in Thai-inspired gracious hospitality, we will create a truly world-class offering that caters to the discerning needs of locals, residents, guests, and investors alike. This project perfectly complements our existing Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket resort and further strengthens our commitment to providing exceptional hospitality experiences in Phuket.”

VillaCarte Group’s Co-CEO, Maxim Spiridonov, said “Dusit International is renowned for its gracious hospitality and expanding network of properties worldwide. Collaborating with the company is the first step in our strategy of partnering with reputable global brands, and we are confident Dusit’s expertise will help elevate Layan Verde to the level of a landmark project and an iconic symbol of Phuket.”

Dusit International’s portfolio now includes 301 properties across 18 countries, with plans for more than 60 additional properties in the pipeline. This expansion solidifies Dusit’s position as a major player in the global hospitality industry, offering diverse and luxurious accommodation options.


Unwrap the Magic this Festive Season with the Perfect Getaway at W Kuala Lumpur

Unwrap the Magic this Festive Season with the Perfect Getaway at W Kuala Lumpur

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 13, 2025

As the festive spirit takes over, W Kuala Lumpur invites travellers to celebrate the magic of the season with ‘Made The List’, a curated collection of experiences designed to make every moment unforgettable. Perfectly located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur City Centre, the hotel offers postcard-perfect views of the Petronas Twin Towers, setting the stage for a year-end escape filled with indulgence and sophistication.

Crafted for the modern tastemaker, ‘Made The List’ goes beyond traditional getaways, blending luxury, culture, and creativity into every offering. From bold culinary journeys and inspired gifting to music-driven experiences and wellness indulgences, each detail reflects W’s signature blend of energy and elegance.

Guests can explore the Made The Guest List, which brings alive the festive vibe through a dynamic lineup of celebrations such as the lavish Sleigh The Eve Buffet and the indulgent Unwrapped Brunch. The Made The YEN List takes fine dining a step further, featuring Yum Cha at YEN, a curated weekend dim sum affair and XXO Indulgence, a private multi-course experience crafted by Chef Weng.

For those who seek rejuvenation, Made The Spa List at AWAY Spa and Made The Feel-Good List, offering a Hi-Tea edition and Café Pop-Up with Veuve Clicquot, promise a perfect balance of wellness and celebration. Meanwhile, Made The Gift List presents a handpicked range of festive treasures, ideal for thoughtful gifting or self-indulgence.

Speaking on the season’s offerings, Mr. Volker Burth, General Manager of W Kuala Lumpur, shared, “At W Kuala Lumpur, we design experiences that spark connection, celebration, and unforgettable moments. This festive season, we’re raising the bar with curated packages that blend bold luxury, cultural richness, and the electric energy W is known for. Inspired by the vibrant Indian spirit of togetherness and celebration, each experience is crafted to unite, delight, and immerse our guests in moments worth remembering.”

For nightlife enthusiasts, Made The It List brings high-energy music experiences and sound activations that define the city’s festive scene. Guests can also discover Made The Stay List, designed for those looking to celebrate in spectacular style. The Celebrate In Spectacular Style package includes a rejuvenating 60-minute treatment at AWAY Spa, cocktails and canapés at the Living Room, entry to signature festive celebrations, and access to the WET Deck Countdown Party. Each stay is complemented by an in-room turndown ritual featuring decadent desserts and W’s signature scent.

For those seeking a luxurious year-end reset, Sparkle In The Sky offers a 3-day, 2-night stay complete with daily breakfast for two, festive dining at FLOCK, access to the Festive Café at Living Room, and exclusive amenities that promise rejuvenation and renewal.

With Made The List, W Kuala Lumpur redefines the art of festive living, where every celebration feels extraordinary, every stay is boldly luxurious, and every guest leaves with memories that shine long after the season ends.

For reservations and enquiries, email reservations.wkualalumpur@whotels.com.


Raffles Hotel Le Royal Marks 96 Glorious Years with Charity Gala and Art Auction

Raffles Hotel Le Royal Marks 96 Glorious Years with Charity Gala and Art Auction

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 12, 2025

Raffles Hotel Le Royal, one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic luxury heritage hotels, is celebrating its 96th anniversary this month with a grand charity gala and an inspiring art exhibition that honours young Cambodian creativity.

The hotel will host a charity gala dinner and art auction on November 24 at its award-winning Restaurant Le Royal. The evening will feature a gourmet three-course dinner with fine wines and a live auction of artworks created by children from Sunrise Cambodia, a local non-profit organisation supporting underprivileged children. All proceeds from the event will contribute to Sunrise Cambodia’s educational and welfare initiatives. Tickets are priced at $96 for two persons, and the event begins at 6 p.m.

Earlier this month, Raffles Hotel Le Royal unveiled a heartfelt art exhibition titled “I Spy – The Magic of Raffles”, encouraging guests to explore the timeless beauty and cultural heritage of the hotel through the eyes of Cambodian youth. The exhibited artworks, created by the children of Sunrise Cambodia, will also be part of the upcoming auction.

Dagmar Lyons, General Manager of Raffles Hotel Le Royal, said, “Through the eyes of Cambodia’s youth, this unique art project captures not just the beauty of our historic hotel, but also the essence of heritage, imagination and hope.”

The initiative involved 25 children from Sunrise Cambodia who participated in an art competition under the guidance of celebrated Cambodian artist Chhim Sothy, with support from artists Li Ming Hang and Emmeline Mulder. Their creative expressions of “The Magic of Raffles” reflect both artistic curiosity and cultural pride. On Children’s Day, five of the best artworks were selected and turned into limited-edition postcards, available at the Raffles Boutique, with proceeds going to Sunrise Cambodia’s creative education programs.

The 96th anniversary celebrations also coincide with Raffles Hotel Le Royal receiving the Green Globe Certification for the second consecutive year, reaffirming its commitment to sustainable hospitality practices. The certification recognises the hotel’s excellence in energy efficiency, waste reduction, community engagement, and environmental stewardship.

The Green Globe programme, founded after the 1992 United Nations Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit, remains the world’s leading sustainability certification for tourism and hospitality. It evaluates hotels on 44 criteria across four categories, supported by over 380 indicators.

As Raffles Hotel Le Royal celebrates nearly a century of timeless elegance, community engagement, and sustainable innovation, it continues to serve as a beacon of Cambodia’s cultural and environmental legacy.


Kenya Tourism Board Crowned Best in Africa

Kenya Tourism Board Crowned Best in Africa

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 11, 2025

The Kenya Tourism Board has been crowned as the Best Tourism Board in Africa at the prestigious Africa Tourism Awards 2025 (The Balearica Awards), held on 1 November at the Hilton London Canary Wharf.

The Kenya Tourism Board triumphed over other leading contenders, including the Egypt Tourism Authority, Rwanda Development Board, South African Tourism, Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, and Instituto do Turismo de Cabo Verde. The recognition reinforces Kenya’s position as a continental benchmark for destination marketing and promotion.

Adding to the country’s pride, the Masai Mara National Reserve was named the Best Safari Destination in Africa. Competing against globally acclaimed parks such as Chobe, Kruger, Serengeti, South Luangwa, and Volcanoes National Parks, the Masai Mara stood out for its extraordinary wildlife experiences, particularly the world-famous annual wildebeest migration and its community-driven conservation initiatives.

image

Kenya’s achievements extended across multiple categories. The Kenya Tourism Board received commendations for Best Tourism Video with its acclaimed campaign “This is the Real Deal,” Best Country Destination, Best City Destination for Nairobi, and Best International Airport for Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Together, these recognitions highlight Kenya’s strong tourism infrastructure and its diverse appeal to global travellers.

Speaking about the awards, Allan Njoroge, Acting CEO of Kenya Tourism Board, said,

“These accolades are a strong testament to Kenya’s extraordinary natural heritage and our commitment to sustainable tourism growth. The Masai Mara remains our crown jewel and one of the world’s premier safari destinations. Our recognition as Best Tourism Board reflects KTB’s innovative marketing strategies, strategic partnerships, and concerted efforts to grow visitor arrivals, boost revenue, and create millions of jobs for Kenyans.”

The awards coincided with the 2025 World Travel Market (WTM) in London, where the Kenya Tourism Board led a vibrant delegation to promote the country’s tourism offerings. KTB used the platform to strengthen partnerships, highlight Kenya’s latest travel products, and attract international visitors.

With its unmatched wildlife adventures, rich cultural traditions, scenic coastlines, and warm hospitality, Kenya continues to set the gold standard for African tourism and remains a leading choice for travellers across the globe.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.