Fairmont Hotels & Resorts debuts in Thailand with the opening of Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit

Setting a 'Blooming Stage’ for Celebration in the Heart of Bangkok

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - (, 2026) – Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, part of the world-leading hospitality group Accor, in partnership with Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC), today announced the opening of Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit. Marking Fairmont’s first hotel in Thailand, the new property introduces the brand’s distinctive spirit of culture, connection and celebration to Bangkok’s vibrant Sukhumvit neighborhood, offering 416 guestrooms and 58 suites for exceptional stays, dining, wellness experiences, celebrations, and world-class meetings and events in one of the city’s most dynamic destinations.

Envisioned as a "blooming stage" for celebration in the heart of Bangkok, the hotel embodies the philosophy that every flower unfolds with purpose. Designed by esteemed Thai architectural and interior design practice PIA, Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit embraces Thailand's rich botanical heritage through a contemporary lens. Floral themes are interwoven throughout the hotel, from its spectacular lobby chandelier inspired by the golden ratchaphruek blossom - Thailand’s national flower - comprising 4,166 glass pieces and over 35,000 crystal balls, to bespoke artworks, sculptural forms and subtle botanical motifs across guestrooms and public spaces. Its design fuses elegant residential comfort with a vibrant social energy, creating a series of spaces designed to move effortlessly from intimate moments to meaningful gatherings and events.

Omer Acar, CEO, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, said: “Thailand’s gracious hospitality, rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted appreciation for connection make it a natural home for Fairmont. Representing a pivotal step in Fairmont’s strategic expansion across Asia, this landmark property follows the much-anticipated debuts of both Fairmont Hanoi and Fairmont Tokyo. More than just a hotel, this magnificent social epicenter enables locals and global travelers to unite and celebrate, connect, and immerse themselves in the spirit of this vivid city, enabling us to truly Make Special Happen for everyone that visits.”

A Vibrant & Epicurean Epicenter

Located in the heart of Sukhumvit, where Bangkok’s culture, creativity and contemporary lifestyle converge, Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit places guests at the center of the city’s vibrant rhythm. Surrounded by the neighborhood’s finest dining, entertainment and heritage landmarks, the property stands as a natural threshold to experiencing the rich complexities of Bangkok. Culinary experiences sit at the heart of the Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit experience, with seven distinctive venues unfolding throughout 2026. Harper's reimagines the North American-French brasserie concept, pairing Parisian elegance with New York sophistication throughout the day. AELA Social Bar transitions from an elegant daytime lounge into the hotel's signature cocktail destination after sunset, while CAYA Pool Club celebrates the vibrant flavors of Thai street food through contemporary cuisine and creative cocktails served in a relaxed setting, drawing inspiration from Bangkok's iconic night markets.

Hidden beneath Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit lies Wiggle Room, scheduled to open mid-September 2026. A bold new entertainment destination, Wiggle Room brings together the glamor of classic cabaret with the energy of contemporary Bangkok. With its own private entrance at Sukhumvit Soi 18, this immersive supper club transforms every evening into a theatrical experience, where live music, captivating performances, imaginative cocktails and exceptional cuisine unfold around a dedicated stage. Sophisticated yet delightfully unexpected, Wiggle Room is designed for those who believe the best nights are never planned—they simply happen, one unforgettable performance at a time.

In December 2026, the culinary collection will extend across levels 32 and 33 of the hotel, with the rooftop located on level 33 and home to two new dining concepts: one blending Italian and Japanese influences against sweeping views of the Bangkok skyline, and another celebrating contemporary Thai cuisine while embracing the country’s rich gastronomic heritage.

Mrs. Wallapa Traisorat, Chief Executive Officer and President of Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC), said “Welcoming Fairmont to Thailand for the first time marks a significant milestone for Asset World Corp (AWC) and its long-standing partnership with Accor. AWC extends its sincere appreciation to the distinguished guests, partners, Accor, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, and all teams whose collaboration brought this achievement to life. Designed to connect travelers, businesses, and local communities, the hotel further strengthens Bangkok’s position as a leading global destination. Guided by its Sustainable Growth-led Strategy and mission of “Building Better Future,” AWC remains committed to partnering with world-class brands to enhance Thailand’s tourism industry and create long-term value for all stakeholders.” 

Wellness Without Walls

Wellness is a defining element of the Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit experience. Guided by Fairmont’s Wellness Without Walls approach, the hotel meticulously interweaves wellbeing across the entire guest journey, extending beyond simply the spa and fitness facilities. From restorative treatments and purposeful movement to thoughtful in-room and hotel-wide touchpoints, guests are supported in maintaining their wellbeing throughout their stay and at their own pace.

At Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit, Fairmont Spa takes local inspiration from the jasmine flower, a symbol of Thai hospitality and purity. The spa offers a tranquil sanctuary where treatments are thoughtfully curated to deliver both immediate and lasting benefits. Fairmont Studio provides dedicated spaces for yoga, cardio and strength training, supporting guests through purposeful movement and exercise. Fairmont Fit extends wellness beyond these dedicated facilities through practical touchpoints and programming designed to help guests maintain their personal routines while travelling. These interconnected spaces for fitness, mindful movement, and restorative care deliver an intuitive approach to wellbeing that is natural, effortless, and personal.

Jerome Lobier, General Manager of Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit, said: "We are delighted to welcome guests as we prepare to introduce Fairmont to Thailand for the first time. Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit is a place shaped by the energy of Bangkok and the spirit of Sukhumvit, where international travelers and the local community can come together to connect, celebrate and experience the very best of the city. Whether guests are joining us for exceptional dining, moments of wellbeing or life's special celebrations, we look forward to welcoming them with the genuine, heartfelt service that defines Fairmont."

Bangkok’s Definitive Events Destination

With over 21,500 square feet (2,000 square meters) of flexible event space across three dedicated floors, Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit brings one of the city’s most revered new destinations for meetings, celebrations and social occasions. The hotel has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate every type of gathering, from executive summits and international conferences to elegant weddings, gala dinners and milestone celebrations. At the heart of the collection is the Signature Grand Ballroom, distinguished by its soaring 12-meter ceiling and dedicated arrival forecourt, creating a memorable sense of occasion from the moment guests arrive. The offering is further complemented by a second ballroom, seven breakout rooms, Couture Hall and a collection of versatile meeting spaces providing equally refined settings for intimate gatherings, product launches and private events. Whether hosting a corporate conference, a lavish wedding or family celebration, Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit combines intuitive and heartfelt service, exceptional cuisine and meticulous attention to detail to create memorable experiences to be cherished with every occasion.

Turning Moments into Special Memories for Every Family Member

Alongside thoughtfully appointed family accommodations, the hotel offers dedicated children's experiences through its Kids Club program, while four-legged companions up to 30 kilograms are equally welcome with carefully considered pet-friendly amenities that ensure a comfortable stay for guests travelling with their pets.

Those who book the Fairmont Gold experience, will enjoy access to Fairmont Gold, the brand's signature "hotel within a hotel" concept. Designed for discerning travelers seeking enhanced privacy and personalized service, Fairmont Gold offers a dedicated reception for seamless check-in and check-out; an exclusive lounge with thoughtfully curated food and beverage offerings throughout the day; and a dedicated concierge team to anticipate every need.

In line with AWC's mission of ‘Building Better Future’, Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit has been designed to LEED Gold standards, incorporating biophilic design, water recycling, smart energy systems, superior indoor air quality, EV charging and a heat-reduction façade. These features reflect AWC's commitment to creating quality destinations that generate long-term value for communities, the environment and future generations, as well as supporting Fairmont and Accor’s sustainability goals.

Reservations for stays from August 18, 2026 are now available at Fairmont.com and ALL.com. Also, Fairmont properties worldwide participate in ALL Accor, a lifestyle loyalty program and booking platform that provides members with access to a wide variety of rewards, services and memorable experiences.

‘The GALLERY’ at Meliá Pattaya Hotel Supports Thai Artisans and Young Creativity

PATTAYA, Thailand (Sept. , 2026) – Meliá Pattaya Hotel has opened a new boutique to showcase the wares of talented Thai designers, artists and craftspeople in support of artistic development for children and youth.

Organized as a social enterprise, The GALLERY connects local artisans with a wider audience through a thoughtful collection of Thai-made gifts, handicrafts, home décor, wellness products and souvenirs.

All profits from The GALLERY boutique at the hotel are reinvested to support artistic development for children and youth by helping to create opportunities for a new generation to foster Thai creativity and preserve local craftsmanship.

“We’d like our guests to have an opportunity to discover meaningful products carrying stories that celebrate Thailand’s communities and their fascinating traditions and creativity,” said Meliá Pattaya Hotel’s general manager Alexander Lopez.

Among The GALLERY’s diverse offerings are products by DAWOOD Voyage Travel Souvenirs, whose craftspeople create intricate tuk-tuk souvenirs from sustainable wood that evoke one of Thailand’s most recognisable modes of transport.

The collection also encompasses wellness and aromatic products from Mesook Farm (Agarwood Farmer Group), including jasmine and lemongrass-scented massage body oils and aroma wood, along with ceramics, decorative pieces and other locally crafted gifts.

Also represented is Maison Craft in Thailand, which experiments with weaving materials and techniques as part of efforts to keep distinctive folk crafts and traditional skills relevant for generations to come.

“It is rewarding for our team to provide a platform for Thai artisans and contribute to opportunities for children and young people to develop their artistic potential and continue craftsmanship handed down the generations,” said Lopez. “Together, the products illustrate The GALLERY’s focus on items with purpose and provenance, giving hotel guests the opportunity to take home a tangible connection to Thailand and support the people and skills behind each piece.”

Based on the mission of “Building a Better Future”, The GALLERY was established by Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC), the owner of Meliá Pattaya Hotel, to promote Thai artisans’ work and foster positive social impact. Based on the concept “Giving Art, Art of Giving”, the initiative stems from AWC’s commitment to creating long-term value for communities through responsible and sustainable development.

The GALLERY forms part of a growing network of social enterprises at AWC hotels across Thailand, including Meliá Chiang Mai and INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit.

Banyan Tree Krabi Wins at Sustainable Green Awards Expo

KRABI, Thailand (Aug., 2026) — Banyan Tree Krabi, one of Thailand’s torchbearers in the fields of sustainability and eco-friendliness, proved its credentials once again when it took home first prize in Barista Mixology and second place in the culinary category at the “Hotel Expo Krabi Go Green 2026” challenge in Krabi on 24 July, 2026.

The winning drink in the mixology contest was a harmonious blend of locally-grown coffee mixed with seasonal fruits, concocted by Dawadee Songprasert, affectionately known as Khun Dao, of Banyan Tree Krabi’s beachfront Kredkaew Bar.

She said her “Soil to Soul” entry was inspired by Krabi's rich natural resources and the hotel’s commitment to sustainability, adding that her creation also follows a zero-waste concept. “We reuse coffee grounds and mango peels to make a cordial, giving these ingredients a second life,” she said.

The mocktail was blended with roselle, mangosteen and natural honey, infused with coconut oil, all of which are locally produced.

Additionally, the resort’s culinary team took second place in the “Local Taste Competition” with a recipe of Chargrilled Prawns with Tom Yum Emulsion, showcasing local ingredients and the authentic flavors of southern Thai cuisine.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the event, the Deputy Governor of Krabi Province said the development of qualitative tourism along with the conservation of natural resources was of great importance to Krabi as its strove towards becoming a green tourism destination.

Krabi in southern Thailand is renowned for its natural wonders, including the iconic towering karst cliffs that jut from the Andaman Sea, hidden lagoons, limestone caves, and islands ringed with white-sand beaches. The region and its dramatic scenery was recently the backdrop for Hollywood blockbuster Jurassic World: Rebirth and previously hosted Leonardo DiCaprio and the crew of hit movie The Beach.

Banyan Tree Krabi has been at the forefront of the local ecological movement and has been recognized with several significant national and international accolades, including a Green Hotel Award - Gold Certification, presented by Thailand’s Department of Environmental Quality Promotion. Last year, it won a Thailand Tourism Sustainability Award in the category of Health & Wellness Tourism at the national Thailand Tourism Awards 2025.

The Award-winning Resort

Banyan Tree Krabi offers 72 pool suites and villas, among them seven two-bedroom options, one three-bedroom villa, and a majestic seven-bedroom beachfront Presidential Villa. Each of the rooms faces the sea and the sunset as the property tiers into the hillside.

Facilities include two restaurants and a beach bar, a kids’ club, a fitness centre, meeting rooms, and — in harmony with Banyan Tree’s wellbeing branding — a tropical spa with Rainforest hydrotherapy facility.

Banyan Tree Krabi was awarded Two MICHELIN stars by the MICHELIN Guide in 2024 and 2025, and lauded by Fodor’s Travel 2026 as the only hotel in Thailand listed in The 100 Most Incredible Hotels in the World.

Hotel Launches Rooftop Sound Healing Experiences Above Gulf of Thailand

PATTAYA, Thailand (2026) – A new sound healing experience suspended high above Pattaya’s shoreline is beckoning guests to calm the nervous system and encourage mindfulness.

Conducted at the Meliá Pattaya Hotel’s rooftop bar, the new Sound Healing Retreat combines therapeutic sound frequencies with guided relaxation techniques.

The sessions harness singing bowls, crystal bowls, gongs and other instruments to shift the mind from a heightened alert state, spurred by the busyness of everyday life, into slower, more meditative brainwave patterns. The experience supports physical and mental wellbeing by activating the body’s parasympathetic nervous system.

Private sessions are available at the hotel’s YHI Spa for individuals and couples, while larger group classes and corporate wellness experiences are also on offer for meetings, incentives and retreats.

Among the most atmospheric offerings is the hotel’s “Yoga with Sound Bath” experience held at the rooftop bar at sunrise. Combining a 45-minute yoga class with a 20-minute sound healing journey, the session unfolds as the city gradually wakes beneath the rooftop venue.

“There’s something especially powerful about experiencing sound healing above the city as the sea stretches out in front of you,” said Meliá Pattaya Hotel’s general manager Alexander Lopez. “These experiences encourage guests to come up for air and reconnect with themselves in an extraordinary setting that simultaneously feels calming and reinvigorating.”

Sound healing builds on Meliá Pattaya Hotel’s wider wellness offering at YHI Spa, which blends Asian healing traditions with contemporary wellbeing therapies. The spa menu offers an array of massages, body rituals, facials and hydrotherapy treatments using natural products and techniques designed to restore balance and relaxation.

The hotel’s regular morning yoga and Pilates classes held throughout the week offer guests gentler movement-based wellness experiences. Hosted at Yitong Sky Bar, the beginner-friendly sessions focus on flexibility, posture, core strength and mindful movement while taking in Pattaya’s morning skyline.

Sound healing sessions, yoga and Pilates classes are available by advance booking through the hotel’s spa.

Hotel Launches Rooftop Sound Healing Experiences Above Gulf of Thailand

PATTAYA, Thailand (, 2026) – A new sound healing experience suspended high above Pattaya’s shoreline is beckoning guests to calm the nervous system and encourage mindfulness.

Conducted at the Meliá Pattaya Hotel’s rooftop bar, the new Sound Healing Retreat combines therapeutic sound frequencies with guided relaxation techniques.

The sessions harness singing bowls, crystal bowls, gongs and other instruments to shift the mind from a heightened alert state, spurred by the busyness of everyday life, into slower, more meditative brainwave patterns. The experience supports physical and mental wellbeing by activating the body’s parasympathetic nervous system.

Private sessions are available at the hotel’s YHI Spa for individuals and couples, while larger group classes and corporate wellness experiences are also on offer for meetings, incentives and retreats.

Among the most atmospheric offerings is the hotel’s “Yoga with Sound Bath” experience held at the rooftop bar at sunrise. Combining a 45-minute yoga class with a 20-minute sound healing journey, the session unfolds as the city gradually wakes beneath the rooftop venue.

“There’s something especially powerful about experiencing sound healing above the city as the sea stretches out in front of you,” said Meliá Pattaya Hotel’s general manager Alexander Lopez. “These experiences encourage guests to come up for air and reconnect with themselves in an extraordinary setting that simultaneously feels calming and reinvigorating.”

Sound healing builds on Meliá Pattaya Hotel’s wider wellness offering at YHI Spa, which blends Asian healing traditions with contemporary wellbeing therapies. The spa menu offers an array of massages, body rituals, facials and hydrotherapy treatments using natural products and techniques designed to restore balance and relaxation.

The hotel’s regular morning yoga and Pilates classes held throughout the week offer guests gentler movement-based wellness experiences. Hosted at Yitong Sky Bar, the beginner-friendly sessions focus on flexibility, posture, core strength and mindful movement while taking in Pattaya’s morning skyline.

Sound healing sessions, yoga and Pilates classes are available by advance booking through the hotel’s spa.

Noteworthy Hotel Openings in 2021 | RAKxa Wellness & Medical RetreatBangkok, Thailand

RAKxa Wellness & Medical RetreatBangkok, ThailandOpening early 2021

Tucked in Bangkok’s undiscovered ‘Green Lung’ island on the Chao Phraya River, the RAKxa Integrative Wellness & Medical Retreat is set to deliver tailored wellness programs incorporating both advanced medical treatments and holistic therapies. This groundbreaking wellness retreat will feature 60 private villas, providing guests a fully transformative experience through personalized three-to-fourteen-day programs based on the retreat’s next level wellness testing technology.

Ashley Lai Appointed General Manager At Sheraton Samui Resort in Koh Samui, Thailand

Ashley Lai

Marriott has appointed Ashley Lai as General Manager of the Sheraton Samui Resort in Thailand.

Ashley, a graduate of the University of Hawaii has worked with Marriott International for over 15 years, initially at the JW Marriott and The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur.

In December 2013, Ashley transferred to the JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa as Resident Manager where she was recognized for her leadership as JW Marriott Rooms Leader of the Year.

Ashley then moved to Siem Reap in Cambodia, her most recent position prior to Samui, to take on the challenge of being General Manager of the first Courtyard by Marriott branded hotel in the country.

Returning to Thailand, Ashley has joined the popular Sheraton Samui Resort as GM.

Source

Marriott International Signs Agreement With Asset World Corporation To Bring Four World-Class Hotels To Thailand

Project expected to add 1,638 rooms under three global brands in Bangkok and Pattaya by 2027

Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) today announced it has signed a milestone agreement with Asset World Corp Plc. (SET: AWC) to add four new landmark properties under three world-class brands across Bangkok and Pattaya, Thailand. The multi-property agreement features a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Thailand’s first JW Marriott Marquis hotel in Bangkok and two Autograph Collection hotels, set to debut the Autograph Collection brand in the country.

“We are pleased to strengthen our longstanding relationship with Asset World Corporation in this landmark signing,” said Craig S. Smith, Group President, Asia Pacific, Marriott International. “This agreement is a testament to the confidence owners and franchisees such as AWC have in Marriott International. We are excited to play a role in AWC’s vision of expanding its diverse portfolio of hospitality and lifestyle projects in Thailand.”

Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Bangkok at Asiatique the Riverfront
Targeted to open by 2027 in Bangkok’s newly revamped Asiatique The Riverfront, the Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Bangkok is expected to serve as a private, ultra-luxury boutique urban resort set on the scenic curve of the Chao Phraya River. With 124 meticulously designed guest rooms, the urban sanctuary will showcase the rich culture, history and heritage of Bangkok’s 19th Century maritime trade.

Source

Thai Hotel Offers To Drop Lawsuit Against Complaining Guest

A hotel in Thailand that filed a criminal defamation suit against a guest who posted negative reviews about it online said Friday it will drop the complaint if he makes apologies and other gestures to restore its reputation.

The lawsuit filed last month by the Sea View Koh Chang Hotel could result in up to seven years in prison for American Wesley Barnes, who teaches English in Thailand, if he is found guilty of defamation and violation of the Computer Crime Act by posting false information online. He spent two nights in jail after he was arrested before being granted bail.

The hotel was also criticized for taking such harsh action. The Sea View said it was necessary to protect its reputation and that Barnes had failed to respond to its demands that he retract his reviews on travel websites.

The hotel said in a statement emailed Friday that it "would be pleased to conclude the complaint under conditions that Mr. Barnes shows his sincerity and takes full responsibility for what had happened and remedy the situation."

Barnes did not reply to an emailed request for comment about the settlement offer, which the hotel said came after he requested mediation. The American said last month he had been trying to reach out to the hotel to resolve the issue.

Thai media reported that Barnes offered a formal apology at a mediation session on Thursday and agreed to the hotel's terms.

According to the hotel on Koh Chang, an island about 300 kilometers (185 miles) southeast of Bangkok, the dispute began when Barnes and a friend brought an alcoholic beverage to dinner at the hotel's restaurant on June 27. When they were told there was a 500 baht ($16) corkage fee, they complained, and after some negotiation with the food and beverage director were allowed to pour from their own bottle without paying extra.

Barnes' version was broadly similar, but added that afterward he saw the food and beverage director, whom he called the restaurant manager, treat a Thai employee abusively, and that was why he decided to post his critical reviews.

"Do not sleep here! Don't support modern day slavery of Thai people!" began the most strident review. It singled out the restaurant manager as being "really bad." Later postings were similar in tone.

Thai hospitality firm Dusit International announces re-entry into India

Thailand-based hospitality firm Dusit International has announced its return to India with a plan to open at least two Dusit-branded hotels per year 2021 onward in tier I and tier II cities.

The company will focus on markets such as Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru – as well as key leisure destinations such as Goa.

Source

Brand overview: Pullman to grow portfolio by 40 hotels with strong APAC focus

Growth in the coming years

According to the TOPHOTELCONSTRUCTION database, Pullman Hotels & Resorts has 15 hotels in its pipeline for 2020, which will bring the company 4,410 new rooms

9 properties are planned for 2021 and things pick up again in 2022 with 12 scheduled openings. 4 more hotels are on the books for 2023 with more likely to be added by then.

Pullman’s main regional focus

Of Pullman’s 40 new hotels, 31 will launch in the APAC region, adding 8,732 rooms to this area. Africa comes in a very distant second place with 4 projects and 1,074 rooms followed by the Middle East with 3 openings. South America and Europe will each see one hotel launch.

China leads the pack with 17 projects and 4,833 new rooms. Despite the coronavirus wreaking havoc in the local hotel industry, investors are still keen on new projects there since they expect everything to go back to normal in the near future.

Vietnam and Indonesia share second place with 3 hotels each, followed by New Zealand and Australia which will get two new hotels each.

Noteworthy Pullman hotel projects around the world

The largest project currently in Pullman’s pipeline is the Pullman Doha Bridge Towers (West Bay) with 468 rooms. The hotel will open in late 2020 and offer guests easy access to Doha’s West Bay business district.

Visitors to Thailand’s serene islands will look forward to the late 2020 opening of the Pullman Khao Lak Resort. The 251-room property set on a stretch of gently sloping beach is the ideal family getaway thanks to its large kids’ club and family-friendly facilities. Couples can avail of the private villas to have their peace and quiet or go for a dip in the adult-only infinity pool overlooking the sparkling Andaman Sea.

Set within Accra’s Airport City enclave, the Pullman Accra Airport City will become a hub for business travellers visiting the city. Slated to open in early 2021, the 214-room property is anticipated to become a major venue for conferences and events thanks to its seven meeting rooms and banqueting facilities as well as its convenient location just a few minutes from Kotoka International Airport.