Fodor’s Names Banyan Tree Krabi Among the World’s 100 Finest Hotels

Fodor’s Names Banyan Tree Krabi Among the World’s 100 Finest Hotels

By Hariharan U

Published on November 7, 2025

Banyan Tree Krabi has been named among the “Fodor’s Finest Hotels 2026”, an annual list recognizing the 100 most exceptional hotels and resorts in the world. Among just 15 properties across Asia, Banyan Tree Krabi proudly stands as the only hotel in Thailand to earn this coveted distinction.

In announcing the list, Fodor’s, one of the world’s most trusted travel authorities since 1949, emphasized that every property was thoroughly vetted by its team of editors and writers through a “brutal and fastidious” selection process.

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Rachael Levitt, Managing Editor at Fodor’s, praised the resort’s philosophy where “sustainability goes hand in hand with comfort and luxury.” “Thailand is famous for its hospitality, and the team here is exceptional,” she noted. “Local cold-press coffee highlights an emerging Thai industry, and the resort’s gallery promotes locally crafted artisan goods. The restaurants — Saffron, The Naga Kitchen, and Bird’s Nest — celebrate regional delicacies and Southeast Asian fusion in a stunning natural setting.”

Nestled along tranquil Tubkaek Beach, approximately 40 km from Krabi International Airport, Banyan Tree Krabi offers a serene escape framed by limestone cliffs, the Andaman Sea, and lush tropical hillside — an environment Fodor’s described as “where nature’s rhythm meets refined design.”

Ms. Haruethai Maneerat, General Manager of Banyan Tree Krabi, expressed pride in the global recognition, “To be selected by Fodor’s as one of the 100 best hotels in the world for 2026 is a great honour. This award reflects our team’s dedication to excellence and the Banyan Tree brand’s enduring commitment to sustainability and service.”

A cornerstone of Banyan Tree Krabi’s success is its comprehensive sustainability programme, led by marine biologist Ms. Thepsuda Loyjiw, the resort’s Sustainability Manager. The initiative focuses on reducing consumption, promoting eco-friendly operations, and fostering community partnerships.

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Among its standout efforts is “Souvenirs from the Sea”, a collaboration with local artisans who transform beach refuse into upcycled souvenirs such as tote bags, sold at the resort’s Banyan Tree Gallery Krabi.

This latest recognition follows Banyan Tree Krabi’s Two Keys rating by MICHELIN in its 2025 evaluation of Thailand’s finest hotels, cementing its reputation as one of the country’s leading luxury resorts.

About Banyan Tree Krabi

Banyan Tree Krabi features 72 pool suites and villas, including expansive two- and three-bedroom options, and a seven-bedroom Presidential Beachfront Pool Villa. The resort’s facilities include:

  • Two signature restaurants and a beach bar

  • A rainforest-themed spa

  • A beach club, kids’ club, fitness centre, and meeting space

About Banyan Tree 

Banyan Tree (www.banyantree.com) offers sanctuaries to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul in awe-inspiring destinations worldwide. Known for its all-villa concept and private pool experiences, Banyan Tree redefines luxury with authenticity, mindfulness, and service excellence.

About Banyan Group

Banyan Group (SGX: B58) is a global, purpose-driven hospitality company with over 70 hotels and resorts, 60 spas and galleries, and 14 branded residences across 20 countries. Through its ethos of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People,” the Group continues to champion responsible and regenerative tourism, blending design-led innovation with a commitment to people and the planet.


Courtyard by Marriott Madurai Marks Eight Years of Hospitality and Growth

Courtyard by Marriott Madurai Marks Eight Years of Hospitality and Growth

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 25, 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Madurai is celebrating its eighth anniversary, marking eight years of hospitality, culinary experiences and strong connections with the city. Since opening in 2018, the hotel has grown alongside Madurai’s tourism, business and hospitality sectors.

The property has built a strong presence among Leisure Travellers, Temple Tourists, Corporate Guests, MICE groups and Wedding celebrations. Over the years, it has continued to adapt to changing guest expectations while focusing on personalized and experience-led hospitality.

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Mr. V. Vasudevan, Chairman, said, “Eight years in Madurai is a milestone built on trust, commitment and strong relationships. We are proud to have grown alongside the city and look forward to creating greater value for Madurai’s hospitality landscape in the years ahead.”

The hotel is also seeing strong business momentum in 2026. During the first half of the year, Courtyard by Marriott Madurai recorded 25%+ growth, with occupancy crossing 85%. Hotel revenue grew by 19.9%, while occupancy growth stood at 8.8%.

Mr. C. Muralikrishnan, Managing Director, said, “Our eight-year journey reflects our ability to evolve with Madurai and its changing hospitality landscape. The strong growth this year reinforces our confidence in the city’s potential and our vision for the future.”

Food and beverage continues to be an important part of the hotel’s offering, with Madurai Kitchen becoming a prominent dining destination for both hotel guests and local diners. Its buffet, food festivals, brunches and curated culinary experiences have added to Madurai’s growing premium dining culture. The hotel has also strengthened its presence in the weddings and MICE segment, having hosted 25+ medical conferences, including national and global associations.

Mr. V. Akshay Ram, Executive Director, said, “Hospitality is ultimately about creating experiences that guests remember. Over the past eight years, we have continually evolved our offerings while staying committed to personalized service and meaningful guest experiences.”

Guest loyalty remains an important part of the hotel’s journey, with repeat guests returning year after year. The property also recorded record guest satisfaction in the first half of 2026. Alongside technology-led convenience, the hotel continues to focus on the human connection that remains central to hospitality.

Sustainability has also become part of the property’s daily operations. Its glass-bottle water plant and energy-efficiency initiatives have helped bring annual electricity consumption down from 2,980,550 kWh to 2,908,447 kWh, saving 72,103 kWh despite an 8.8% increase in occupancy and 19.9% growth in hotel revenue. Engineering-led operational practices have also helped reduce HLP costs from 9.4% to 8.4%.

Mr. Mahesh Padala, General Manager, said, “Our eighth anniversary is a celebration of our guests and our associates who make every experience special. The loyalty of our guests and record satisfaction this year inspire us to raise the bar even further.”

As Courtyard by Marriott Madurai enters its ninth year, the hotel will continue to focus on guest experience, F&B innovation, weddings, MICE, technology and sustainability, while growing alongside Madurai and contributing to the city’s evolving hospitality landscape.


Taj Agra Invites Guests to Embrace the Monsoon with Special Staycation Offer

Taj Agra Invites Guests to Embrace the Monsoon with Special Staycation Offer

By Hariharan U

Published on August 23, 2026

Taj Agra is inviting guests to make the most of the monsoon season with a specially curated Monsoon Staycation, combining comfortable accommodation with dining and wellness benefits for a relaxed getaway in the historic city.

The staycation offer provides guests with savings across key aspects of their stay, including accommodation, food and beverages, and spa and salon services.

Guests can avail 25% savings on breakfast-inclusive stays, along with daily breakfast at the designated dining venue. The offer also includes 25% savings on food and beverages and 25% savings on spa therapies and salon services during the stay.

Speaking about the offer, Bikram Pradhan, Revenue Manager, Taj Agra, said, “The monsoon season offers a wonderful opportunity to slow down, reconnect and enjoy a more leisurely getaway. Through our Monsoon Staycation, we are delighted to welcome guests to Taj Agra for a relaxed and enriching experience, with thoughtfully curated dining and wellness benefits.”

Additional benefits under the offer include up to 8% NeuCoins on eligible bookings and spends, along with standard Wi-Fi throughout the stay.

Key Offer Details:

  • 25% savings on breakfast-inclusive stays
  • Daily breakfast at the designated dining venue
  • 25% savings on food and beverages
  • 25% savings on spa therapies and salon services
  • Up to 8% NeuCoins on bookings and eligible spends
  • Standard Wi-Fi during the stay

The Monsoon Staycation is available for bookings from 18 July to 23 August 2026, with stays valid from 18 July to 30 September 2026.

Located in Agra, Taj Agra offers guests a blend of contemporary hospitality and the cultural heritage of the destination, making it a setting for leisure escapes, celebrations and business stays.

Booking:

Guests can book the offer through Taj Hotels' official booking platform.


The Leela Ambience Gurugram Curates New Luxury Retreat Experience

The Leela Ambience Gurugram Curates New Luxury Retreat Experience

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 22, 2026

The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences is inviting guests to slow down and enjoy a more relaxed city escape with its new Luxury Retreat Reserve, an experience created around leisurely mornings, unhurried afternoons and memorable evenings.

Set within the luxury urban sanctuary, the stay offers rooms overlooking a sprawling 1,000-acre forest, giving guests a peaceful setting while still being in the heart of the city.

The experience begins with breakfast at Spectra, the award-winning all-day dining restaurant, followed by a three-course lunch at Diya. Known for its contemporary take on Indian cuisine, Diya brings together traditional flavours and a refined dining setting.

Guests can then spend a relaxed afternoon at The Courtyard Garden, where afternoon tea is served among lush greenery and private cabanas. The setting offers a quiet break from the pace of everyday city life.

For guests who prefer to spend their leisure time outdoors, the experience also includes access to activities at The Leela Ambience Golf Greens and The Leela Cycling Trail, available at an additional charge. The 9-hole golf course offers views of the surrounding landscape, while the cycling trail features curated routes for guests looking to explore the outdoors. After an active afternoon, guests can unwind at the spa with an exclusive credit, which can be used towards personalised therapies.

As the day comes to an end, Zanotta offers an Italian dining experience with panoramic Pearl and Ruby views overlooking Gurugram’s skyline. The restaurant combines Italian cuisine, elegant interiors and a curated beverage selection for a refined evening. The experience also includes round-trip transfers within a 10-kilometre radius and a bottle of house wine, adding to the ease of the stay from arrival to departure.

Available for bookings from 1 September 2026, Luxury Retreat Reserve is designed for guests looking to step away from busy schedules and simply enjoy a slower pace, good food, outdoor experiences and the comfort of having nowhere else to be.

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