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.

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.

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.

The St. Regis Goa Resort proudly announces the reopening of Riverside, its signature Pan-Asian restaurant gracefully situated along the tranquil banks of the River Sal. Reimagined with an elevated aesthetic and a renewed culinary vision, Riverside invites guests to rediscover the harmony between nature, flavour, and understated luxury.

Reflecting the charm of sunlit afternoons and starlit evenings, the redefined Riverside celebrates the rich diversity of Asian gastronomy. The restaurant’s refreshed interiors exude sophistication through warm textures, natural elements, and subtle elegance, creating the perfect backdrop for leisurely riverside dining.

Guests can savour panoramic river views from the breezy patio or immerse themselves in the energy of the open kitchen, where chefs craft vibrant dishes inspired by the street markets of Southeast Asia. Each creation blends authenticity with modern artistry, showcasing a thoughtful balance of taste, texture, and aroma.

From soulful curries to wok-tossed delicacies, every plate at Riverside narrates a story of cultural connection and culinary refinement. The ambiance, enriched by the gentle flow of the River Sal, captures the spirit of The St. Regis experience, timeless, elegant, and distinctly memorable.

With its refined flavours, captivating design, and serene riverside setting, Riverside at The St. Regis Goa Resort promises an extraordinary dining experience where every meal becomes a moment to savour.

Timings: 12:30 PM – 5:00 PM | 7:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Closed on Mondays

The First Group Hospitality has taken another major step in its growth journey, announcing a series of hotel management signings during the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) World in Dubai. The deals highlight the company’s expanding reach both within the Middle East and internationally, reinforcing its position as one of the fastest-growing hotel management firms in the region.

At the summit, The First Group unveiled the rebranding of three of its flagship Dubai properties under Marriott International’s Tribute Portfolio and Autograph Collection. The newly branded hotels, The First Collection Marina, Dubai, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel; The First Collection Waterfront, Dubai, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel; and Hotel Local Dubai, Jumeirah Village Triangle, Autograph Collection, reflect a strategic alignment with Marriott’s global presence and loyalty network.

Spread across three vibrant neighbourhoods, Dubai Marina, Business Bay, and Jumeirah Village Triangle, these properties are designed to offer lifestyle-driven experiences that blend local flair with world-class hospitality standards.

Adding to the excitement, The First Group announced its partnership with BB Holding to launch Radisson RED Marjan Island, the UAE’s first franchised Radisson RED property. Scheduled to open in 2027, this 261-key hotel will be located on Ras Al Khaimah’s Al Marjan Island, one of the emirate’s most sought-after destinations known for its mix of relaxation and adventure.

The company also revealed its first European project, Gennadi Seaside Resort in Rhodes, Greece, marking The First Group Hospitality’s debut in the European market.

Commenting on these developments, Rob Burns, CEO of The First Group, said, “These milestone signings reflect The First Group Hospitality’s expanding collaboration with leading global hotel groups who trust us to manage flagship properties in the UAE and beyond. We sincerely thank our partners for their confidence in our vision and continued support throughout this growth journey. The variety of management agreements demonstrates our versatility as third-party operators to work across a spectrum of properties, from midscale to luxury, from city hotels to beach resorts.”

The series of announcements at FHS World come at a time of strong momentum for the company’s portfolio. Beyond the summit, The First Group also joined hands with IHG Hotels & Resorts to launch Holiday Inn Dubai Village Circle, a 349-key property located near Al Maktoum International Airport. The project further extends the firm’s collaboration with IHG, following notable ventures such as Ciel Dubai Marina, Vignette Collection, soon to become the world’s tallest hotel.

Headquartered in Dubai, The First Group Hospitality continues to build its reputation as a trusted hospitality management company specialising in hotel operations, asset management, and F&B strategy. With a team of seasoned professionals, the firm focuses on enhancing operational efficiency, revenue growth, and guest satisfaction across its expanding global portfolio.