WESTERN AUSTRALIA LIFESTYLE & CULTURE UPDATES

Lightscape returns to Perth this winter

King's Park and Botanic Gardens (Kaarta Koomba) will be transformed into an ethereal world of twinkling lights, laser-lit forests, and vivid colour. Lightscape is returning to Perth this year after a huge success in 2023. Running from June 7 to July 28, new creations have been added to the 1.8-kilometer trail. Some new additions will be a kaleidoscope rainbow path, walkway of giant hot pink neon hearts and a 10-metre-high waterfall of light. Food trucks and pop-up bars where visitors can drink mulled wine to combat the cold are scattered around the event.
https://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=LSPTOURS24&irgwc=1

Record participation for Margaret River Region Open Studios

Margaret River Open Studios is again celebrating a bumper event ahead, with 144 artists taking part in 2024. From September 7 to 22, painters, potters, mosaicists, illustrators and more will show off their creative skills in hay sheds, cow barns, converted water tanks, sea containers and renovated train carriages across the Margaret River Region. This event is perfect for art lovers who yearn to get into the artist's mind and talk about all things art, creativity and inspiration. In 2023 the event saw more than 14,000 visitors who made 145,000 studio visits to support local artists.

Annual Revealed exhibition opens

Held in Fremantle Arts Centre in Perth's port city of Fremantle, Revealed is an annual art exhibition honoring the diversity, skill and passion of contemporary Aboriginal art practice in WA. Running from May 10 to August 4, Revealed features painting, silk print, glass sculptures and more, each depicting a connection to Country, culture and regional life. This exhibition is also an opportunity to ethically purchase original art from Western Australian independent artists and art centres.

Metamorphosis: Artists in Collaboration with Plants

FORM is opening its fifth exhibition in its Southern Exposure series in mid-May at the FORM Gallery and Café in East Perth. This series celebrates WA artists who live or have connections to the southern regions of the state. The Metamorphosis exhibition draws inspiration from the magic, wonder and power of the natural world and the importance of protecting it. This free art event runs from May 17 to July 13.
*Website: https://www.westernaustralia.com

Learn Firsthand Where Sonoma County Food Comes From

Sonoma County

Despite the consistent mild Mediterranean climate year-round, Sonoma County boasts a myriad of microclimates influenced by the coastal fog drifting inland and sunny days that warm the stretches further inland. This unique combination of weather and topography renders Sonoma an optimal region for cultivating a diverse array of produce, contributing significantly to its status as an agricultural superstar.

Explore the expansive Sonoma Coast on a seaweed foraging adventure with Strong Arm Farms owner, Heidi Herrmann on the Sonoma Coast or seek mushroom foraging in coastal Sonoma County with resident expert and chef, Patrick Hamilton. Go a step farther with local nonprofit Farm to Pantry, and glean spring produce that will be distributed to locals in need.

Beginning in April, try your hand at a U-Pick at EARTHSeed Farm. Founder and farm manager Pandora Thomas and her team at EARTHseed Farm practice permaculture stewardship, an ecological design system that incorporates indigenous wisdom to elevate ecosystem health while meeting human needs. During the U-pick program, media can pick their own fruits and berries, and stewards walk them through the farm, educating them on permaculture design while showing off the ripest produce.

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre enhances accessibility for events

In recognition of Global Accessibility Awareness Day, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) is proud to announce new collaborations and initiatives to help event organisers deliver more accessible, inclusive and welcoming events, as part of the venue's Positive Impact Guide.

The Australian Disability Network IMPACT Conference held last week, highlighted MCEC’s dedication to inclusivity, creating an inviting and engaging atmosphere for all attendees.

The event featured accessible technology, Auslan interpreters, sensory rooms and accommodations for assistance animals, ensuring a truly inclusive experience for all participants. The catering options included tray service as well as table service, with a wide range of menu selections available at every station. For presenters with mobility needs, ramps leading up to the stages equipped with handles on each side allowed easy access.

Travellers Aid, a recent addition to MCEC’s Positive Impact Guide, operated a buggy service for attendees with mobility needs, ensuring everyone could easily travel to and from the conference without barriers.

Head of Advocacy, Impact and Reputation, Rohan Astley was pleased MCEC could help create a space where all attendees felt welcomed and valued.

“We’re proud to work closely with event organisers and collaborate with leading accessibility service providers like Travellers Aid to improve inclusivity and support delegates to meaningfully participate and engage in events at MCEC,” he said.

Travellers Aid CEO Elias Lebbos said, “Our partnership with MCEC reinforces a shared commitment to accessible and inclusive events in which everyone can participate. Travellers Aid look forward to this collaboration to better facilitate the practical needs of the 4.4 million people with disability within Australia, as well as our international visitors to Melbourne.”

MCEC is also collaborating with Travellers Aid at the upcoming Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Conference, hosted by the Victorian Tourism Industry Council in August, to provide a buggy service, motorised wheelchairs and personal care support for attendees.

In addition, this week MCEC is also hosting the International Society for Autism Research (INSAR) Annual Meeting secured by the Melbourne Convention Bureau. MCEC is fostering an accessible and inclusive environment for delegates to connect, especially for autistic people, with about 1 in 10 conference attendees identifying as autistic.

To reduce sensory overload, stage lighting for keynote speakers has been adjusted, meeting rooms have been furnished with all black chairs and hand dryers in the bathrooms have been switched off to minimise noise. There is enough room for attendees to stand and walk at the back of the rooms without disrupting the session. A low sensory space is available, offering a quiet and comfortable environment for attendees to take a break and relax. A designated networking space for autistic researchers is also provided, allowing for more comfortable and inclusive interactions.

MCEC team members also participated in an education workshop prior to the event to understand how they can best support autistic attendees and ensure a positive experience for all.

“We’re thrilled to host the Australian Disability Network IMPACT Conference and INSAR at MCEC,and demonstrate our commitment to inclusivity as part of the events. Through our Positive Impact Guide, we aim to provide event organisers with tangible resources to deliver more accessible events, providing a welcoming environment for all attendees,” Rohan said.

MCEC continues to prioritise accessibility and inclusivity, providing an inviting and safe place to connect.

Video content key to engaging Gen Z travellers

In an enlightening session  at ATM 2024 on “How To Build Influence with Gen Z in Just 30 Seconds”, Marc-Antoine Simon, Industry Manager, Travel and Tourism – MENA, TikTok, shared insights on the latest trends in community-led marketing, demonstrating how brief yet powerful content can significantly influence travel decisions.

According to research commissioned by Exodus Travels in 2023, only 45% of vacations lived up to or exceeded the perfect picture they had imagined. On average, travellers search through 38 different travel sites to figure out where to go, how to get there and where to book, with 58% admitting to abandoning a booking because the process has been too stressful.

“Travel is one of the most sought-after pursuits in people’s lives, so much so that they would sacrifice just about anything to get away. Unfortunately, the high likelihood of a trip leading to unwanted disappointment is why, ahead of a trip, people go the extra mile to ensure that the reward is maximised and the risk is neutralised,” he explained.

Simon explained that today, this desire to take control of the search experience sees travellers swapping keywords for human words, queries for communities and information

for immersion. This allows them to discover, on their terms, and transform a daunting endeavour into an enjoyable journey, proving that travel is at the cusp of a new search era fuelled by people.

“Travellers need a search platform that offers fast results with visual content that is mobile and community-led. By creating their own platform, they have eliminated major barriers to travel that once hindered the pre-booking journey, and these communities are making destinations viral overnight,” he added.

A perfect example of the power of user-generated content is Albania, a country often overlooked as a tourist destination. However, in 2022, the country suddenly gained popularity thanks to an influx of videos showcasing its tourism attributes. The impact was significant, with Skyscanner reporting a 44% increase in flight searches to Albania from the UK, and searches from the US also saw a significant uptick.

The expert panel included other notable figures, including Joshua Roche, CEO of Bulla Connect Ltd; Keith Herman, CEO of Trending Travel; and His Excellency Harris Whitbeck, Minister of Tourism Board of Guatemala. Their discussion focused on social media's pivotal role in influencing Gen Z's travel decisions and how these platforms can be leveraged to convert interest into tangible tourist engagements.

During the discussion, H.E. Whitbeck highlighted Guatemala's successful strategies for attracting Gen Z tourists, with a special emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly initiatives that align with their values.

“Gen Z is a massive market for Guatemala, being highly educated and curious. With 78 million people using TikTok in Latin America, marketing the destination becomes a blank slate. However, while community-led coverage from Tiktok is welcome, Guatemala would prefer visitors who have a lower impact on our resources. To achieve this, we would need to leverage tools such as AI and Big Data to tailor our messaging to the right audience,” he explained.

As the 31st edition of Arabian Travel Market approaches its final day tomorrow, Thursday, 9 May 2024, at DWTC, more than 2,300 exhibitors from 165 countries and 41,000 attendees from around the world will look to embrace insights such as these to innovate and transform tourism strategies effectively.

Held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2024’s strategic partners are the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Destination Partner; Emirates,

Official Airline Partner; IHG Hotels & Resorts, Official Hotel Partner; and Al Rais Travel, Official DMC Partner.

Cambodia’s Shaolin-Bokator event a ‘cultural diplomacy breakthrough’

The Kingdom's leading Bokator exponents showcase their

command of the Kingdom's ancient martial art (left),

while Shaolin masters from China's Henan province demonstrate

their own unique fighting style (right). Photo The Phnom Penh Post

The Minister of Tourism described the cross-provincial partnership as not only enriching the tourism experience but also serving as a model for international cooperation in boosting local economies through cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

A senior government leader has described the Kingdom’s latest joint tourism venture as more than a spectacular event, but a symbol of well-planned Cambodian tourism and diplomatic strategies aimed at fostering deeper ties with China.

As he addressed the April 24 grand opening of the “When Shaolin Meets Bokator at Angkor”, Minister of Tourism Sok Soken explained that the occasion was more than a display of cultural heritage; it was a strategic move reinforcing the “Cambodia-China People-to-People Exchange Year 2024”.

Held against the backdrop of the iconic Bayon Temple in Siem Reap province’s Angkor Archaeological Park, the event was chaired by the minister and attended by Sun Shougang, vice-governor of China’s Henan province and Yun Linne, deputy governor of Siem Reap province.

During his speech, Soken emphasised the profound cultural, traditional, and diplomatic relations shared between Cambodia and China, highlighting that such cultural exchanges are pivotal to the ongoing “Belt and Road Initiative” and the strengthening of socio-economic bonds between the two nations.

“This event aligns perfectly with the ‘Cambodia-China People-to-People Exchange Year 2024’ campaign and plays a crucial role in advancing the Belt and Road Strategy,” he said.

He noted that these ties are not just ceremonial but form a strategic framework aimed at substantial economic benefits, primarily through tourism.

Soken highlighted the strategic initiative “5-Build, 3Ds” and outlined various campaigns aimed at attracting visitors.

“In 2023, Cambodia welcomed 5.4 million international guests, with approximately 540,000 of them coming from China, alongside 18.5 million domestic tourists,” he said.

“The rise in tourist numbers in early 2024 -- a 22 per cent increase in foreign visitors, including a 43 per cent rise in Chinese tourists -- underscores the success of recent policies and events aimed at making Cambodia a more attractive destination,” he added.

Soken highlighted Cambodia’s readiness to cater to an influx of Chinese tourists and investors by improving the hospitality sector within the country.

He cited ongoing efforts to fine-tune the local tourism infrastructure and services, ensuring they meet international standards that appeal particularly to Chinese visitors, who are crucial to the tourism sector’s growth.

The event also served as an outlet for expressing gratitude towards the administrations of Henan and Siem Reap provinces for their collaboration, he noted.

Soken described the cross-provincial partnership as not only enriching the tourism experience but also serving as a model for international cooperation in boosting local economies through cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

“I urge the Henan provincial administration to continue promoting Cambodian tourism destinations and facilitating direct flights from Henan province to the Kingdom, especially Siem Reap province. Moreover, I urge your continued support for the ‘Cambodia-China People-to-People Exchange Year 2024’,” he added.

The government’s ambitious “5-Build” strategy is aimed at bolstering its global tourism standing. The strategy emphasises efficient management, enhanced promotion and improved infrastructure.

Key developments include strengthening institutional structures, driving digital transformation and comprehensive investment in human resources. Each of these initiatives demonstrates Cambodia’s commitment to enhancing tourism competitiveness and sustainability.

Chhay Sivlin, president of the Cambodia Association of Travel Agents (CATA), noted a surge in foreign arrivals since the start of 2024. The increase was led by Thai tourists, followed closely by visitors from Vietnam and China.

“Of the 190,000 Chinese tourists, not all ventured to tourist destinations,” she remarked.

Looking ahead to the remaining quarters of 2024, Sivlin anticipated further growth, particularly with the expansion of flight routes, such as upcoming direct flights from Dubai to Cambodia on May 1.

Additionally, Cambodia Angkor Air now offers direct flights to New Delhi, India, tapping into a vast market.

However, she expressed caution regarding expectations for the Chinese tourism market, due to ongoing restrictions imposed by China. She urged coordinated efforts between the leaders of both countries to facilitate Chinese travel.

Top Sopheak, spokesperson for the Ministry of Tourism, highlighted that “When Shaolin Meets Bokator at Angkor” would not only serve as an event which attracts more Chinese tourists and showcases the cultural richness of the Kingdom’s tourism offerings. It also featured exhibitions of cultural and tourism products from both China and Cambodia.

Sopheak shared the ministry’s expectation that Cambodia will welcome approximately 1 million Chinese guests in 2024.

Following Soken’s address, domestic and international visitors were treated to a captivating display of Bokator and Shaolin martial arts performances, set against the majestic backdrop of the Bayon Temple. *The Phnom Penh Post/ANN

Mon State sees tourism surge of over 1.25M visitors in 2023-24FY

More than 1.25 million local and foreign visitors journeyed to tour destinations in Mon State during the 2023-24 financial year, as reported by U Zeya Tun, Director of the Directorate of Hotels and Tourism for Mon State.

The breakdown reveals that over 1.2 million domestic travellers and over 50,000 foreign visitors explored the region. It marks a notable increase of over 50 per cent compared to the corresponding period of the previous year.

U Zeya Tun highlighted the primary attractions drawing travellers to the state, including Kyaiktiyo Pagoda in Kyaikto Township, Kyaikkhami Mid-water Pagoda in Thanbyuzayat, Setse Beach, Kyaikthanlan Pagoda, Taungwine Mountain, Mawlamyine viewpoint in Mawlamyine, Zinkyaik Waterfall in Paung, and the Ywalut area in Chaungzon-Bilukyun for observing handicraft works.

Moreover, Mon State has developed 63 tour destinations catering to both local and foreign visitors. Additional sites such as Kyaukpachi Beach in Thanbyuzayat, sightseeing cruises along the Mawlamyine strand road, and hot springs in Chaungzon Township have been designated as tourist sites. — ASH/TMT

*The Global New Light of Myanmar

Phāea Blue Palace Unveils Its Grandeur: A Luxurious Haven Emerges on the Shores of Crete

Phāea Blue Palace 

The iconic Blue Palace hotel on Crete, part of Greek hospitality brand Phāea and a member of Small Luxury Hotels, will reopen in May 2024 with a new look and feel. Phāea Blue Palace is set to open with 47 bungalows and suites and everything from the interiors to the experiences will reflect Phāea's commitment to conscious luxury hospitality and a deeper connection to Crete's timeless heritage.

The hotel will offer refreshed interiors and a more intimate, personalized experience in the same majestic location. The Phāea experience begins the second guests step into the lobby, where they will have their first introduction to the resort's warm hospitality and feel as though they are stepping into a private home. As they move through the hotel, guests will see how Phaea's legacy of excellent service, attention to detail and Cretan heritage permeates every corner.

The updated rooms and suites reflect a relaxed yet refined island aesthetic, incorporating a colour palette of earthy tones and textures, eclectic artwork and designer furnishings. Phāea has worked with several local designers and artists such as Philippos Theodorides, Themis Z and Nisaki Mou to celebrate Cretan heritage and craftsmanship throughout, further rooting the hotel in its destination. Unique pieces found in the suites include the iconic Klismos chairs, designed by T.H. Robsjohn Gibbings, and manufactured by the house of Saridis in the 60's. All rooms include curated amenities in all rooms – from the welcome amenities to the minibar.

The crown jewel at Phāea Blue Palace is the Phāea Blue Villa. This secluded 3-bedroom villa features a large, heated pool, vast indoor space and opulent amenities, providing a peaceful haven for guests who want to switch off and enjoy the peace and quiet of their own space. A new addition for 2024 is a private chef and private butler who are on hand to ensure that all the guests' needs are catered for.

The hotel's thoughtfully curated experiences will offer guests genuine and original adventures that will immerse them in the destination of Crete, whilst reflecting Phāea's values of kindness, generosity, and consciousness as well as its dedication to people and place. The knowledgeable and passionate concierge team are on hand to assist guests in discovering the authentic side of Crete, with its many secrets, curating an experiential travel experience for all to enjoy.

 

Nourishment and Discovery: The Phāea Farmers' Feast Pop-up

Celebrating farm-to-table eating and the best in homegrown produce, the Phāea Farmers Feast experience brings guests closer to nature and promotes a sense of discovery on the hotel's very own doorstep. Hosted outside in the magical organic garden at PHĀEA Blue Palace, guests can join the hotel's Executive Chef and a Phāea Farmer in hand-picking fresh ingredients, whilst learning about the Phāea Farmers initiative and the joys of growing food firsthand. After harvesting their own ingredients, guests will take part in a creative cooking experience under the guidance of the Chef. Then it's time to feast at a communal table under a starry sky, to enjoy the fruits of their labour: freshly cooked food, accompanied by local, sustainably produced organic wines. Indulging guests in the smells, sounds and tastes of Crete, it's an authentic multi-sensory experience that celebrates all that the island has to offer. In addition, guests can experience the age-old tradition of cooking directly in the soil, enhancing flavours and infusing each dish with the essence of the earth.

All Aboard the Traditional Caique Experience

Aboard a charming traditional Greek fishing boat – a caique - guests can experience the unspoiled natural landscapes of Crete from the waters as they cruise around the beautiful Mirabello Gulf. Setting off from the hotel's own jetty, guests can get a new perspective of the island, visiting secluded beaches and the fascinating and historic isle of Spinalonga, all whilst breathing in the restorative sea air. Over the course of the languid boat journey, guests can enjoy a wine tasting, sampling a selection of Cretan wines alongside an array of locally sourced cheese and freshly prepared salads.

As part of their boat trip, guests can opt to have lunch on land, on the beautiful beach of Kolokytha with a view of the historic Byzantine chapel St. Fokas. There, guests can enjoy a mouth-watering private BBQ prepared by the chef, with views of the sparkling Aegean Sea.

Phāea Blue Palace 

Well explored yet ripe for new discovery, Crete is an enclave of sublime beauty and well placed to offer transformative experiences and retreat from the noise of urban life. As the largest of the Greek islands, Crete presents a stunning diversity of settings that includes magnificent mountain ranges, gorges and valleys, in addition to flawless shores that kiss the Aegean Sea.

Well known for its distinct cultural traits, Crete presents a gateway to the Greece of past and present through authentic food concepts, local experiences and pure connections with nature, all just moments away from any spot on the island.

DISCOVER 2 MORE OF AAPI CULTURE IN LOS ANGELES

Thien Hau Temple | Photo: Chris Valle Photography,
Discover Los Angeles Flickr Pool

Los Angeles is home to some of the largest Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) enclaves outside of their native countries. Generations of AAPI immigrants and Asian Americans have helped make LA one of the most diverse cities in the country. From cultural institutions to landmark buildings, World War II monuments and more, explore the rich cultures and vital histories of the AAPI community in Los Angeles.

1) THIEN HAU TEMPLE

756 Yale St., Los Angeles 90012
213-680-1860
Thien Hau Temple is a Taoist temple in Chinatown that's dedicated to Mazu, the goddess of the sea and the patron saint of sailors, fishermen, and those whose cultures are associated with the ocean. Shrines at the temple venerate Mazu, Guan Yu (god of war) and Fu De (god of the earth). On Lunar New Year’s Eve, crowds gather at the temple to receive blessings, burn incense, and worship the deities. Lion dancers perform and firecrackers are popped to scare away evil spirits. Blessings are given at the temple during the first few weeks of the new year.
MORE INFO

2) USC PACIFIC ASIA MUSEUM

46 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena 91101
626-449-2742
View Website

Photo: USC Pacific Asia Museum

One of the few U.S. institutions dedicated to the arts and culture of Asia and the Pacific Islands, the USC Pacific Asia Museum has a collection of more than 15,000 objects, spanning more than 4,000 years of the region from Persia to the Pacific Islands. The museum exhibits classic and contemporary art in the Grace Nicholson building, a registered California State Historic Landmark. Inspired by the classic gardens of China, the museum’s courtyard was designed by Gilbert Leong, the first Chinese American to graduate from USC with a degree in architecture.
MORE INFO

These are the SEVEN BEST towns in Australia to drive to in a BEV!

Who said you couldn’t go on a road trip across Australia an electric vehicle? Not us!

To celebrate the launch of Toyota Australia’s first entirely battery electric vehicle (BEV), the bZ4X, Toyota has teamed up with travel expert (and all-round legend) Teigan Nash to select the top 7 towns across Australia to travel to in an EV.

The towns were all selected as part of Toyota’s Power Town award, which champions towns across Australia that provide an unparalleled charging experience for new and existing electric vehicle owners.

Toyota’s Power Town award sets out to redefine the way Aussies envision and embrace electric living while providing confidence and trust when travelling across Australia in a battery-electric vehicle.

• PORT STEPHENS, NSW

A stunning coastal town just north of Newcastle, Port Stephens is renowned for its bucket-list worthy scenery, including its beautiful beaches, unbelievable scenery, and picturesque sand dunes.

• KATHERINE, NT

Situated along the Katherine River, Katherine is home to iconic and important natural landscapes, hot springs, picnic spots, – the town offers a perfect combination of exploration and relaxation.

• MORETON BAY, QLD

Described as a “little Maldives in Brisbane”, Moreton Bay is a small paradise on the northeast coast boasting lagoons, nature reserves, delicious seafood (Moreton Bay Bugs, anyone?). For the movie buffs, it’s also the filming location for Scooby Doo: Mystery Island.

• DAYLESFORD, VIC

Situated in the foothills of Victoria’s Great Dividing Range, Daylesford is host to both a quaint township with heritage architecture, hot springs, and fine dining spots, as well as some of Victoria’s most picturesque lakes and botanical gardens.

• STRAHAN, TAS

Strahan is on the west coast of Tasmania, and offers World Heritage-listed wilderness - including sea, forest, sand dunes, waterfalls - on a former port with a historical town. Standouts include its gorgeous heritage railway.

• ESPERANCE, WA

Home to some of the whitest beaches and clearest waters you’ll find in Australia, Esperance looks like the postcards tourists send when they visit the country. See kangaroos on the beach, sample contemporary, locally-sourced cuisine on the waterfront, and of course, take a trip out to see the iconic pink lake.

And THE Toyota Power Town, the winning town:

• CLARE VALLEY, SA

Clare Valley is one of Australia’s oldest winemaking regions but offers so much more. The home of the Australian Riesling is also a gorgeous inland town only 90 minutes’ drive from Adelaide, with stunning natural scenery, heritage cultural buildings and architecture, iconic pop cultural landmarks like the Midnight Oil House, an artisanal hedge maze, and eateries that demonstrate why the region describes itself as a “mecca for foodies”.

Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui: Luxurious Villa Retreat

Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui

GARRYA TONGSAI BAY SAMUI is a gorgeously crafted oasis of serenity, equilibrium and relaxation. The five-star retreat was purpose built to provide a tranquil and harmonious experience, featuring a private beach that blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings.

Intimate and secluded in its own peaceful bay, the sprawling resort covers 28 acres of breathtaking tropical real estate on the northeastern side of Koh Samui. The property is the latest addition to the Banyan Group family, marking the debut of the Garrya Brand in Thailand and the beginning of a vibrant new era in sustainable luxury hospitality in the region

Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui provides tropical stays for every style of traveller. The resort's 81 sea view suites and sea view pool villas are nestled in lush gardens perched on a hillside overlooking a beautiful bay. All 63 suites and 18 pool villas feature exclusive outdoor bathing areas, offering remarkable views of the surrounding area

For guests who need to stay connected to work, Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui also offers a dedicated 24-hour co-working space in the lobby equipped with comfortable, practical furniture and multiple plug points. This space is ideal for digital nomads, remote workers and guests seeking a quiet little corner to catch up on correspondence or some light reading.

Space to Savor

Dining venues at Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui highlight local flavors while making the most of the resort’s spectacular setting. RHOY RHOY! serves unpretentious Thai cuisine with a courtyard featuring beautiful sea views. For elevated beachfront dining, Fish Tales will offer a casual lunch and dinner experience centered on local seafood dishes served in a relaxed, breezy setting, while EVOL serves nutritionally-balanced and wholesome meals, including vegan options, with majority of ingredients coming from the resort’s own garden and local farmers. Additionally, travellers can also customize their culinary experience from a candlelit dinner on the beach to in-villa BBQ served on the terrace, complete with a bespoke menu and a personal Chef and service attendant.

Spa and Wellbeing

Derived from Banyan Group’s ELEMENTS of Wellbeing, 8LEMENTS SPA is set amidst the hotel’s natural green surroundings providing a haven of relaxation and beauty with a selection of fuss-free and accessible treatments. Secluded spa cottages are each equipped with two massage beds, a separate treatment area for Thai massages, outdoor foot wash and relaxation area, herbal steam room and an open-air bathtub for floral or milk baths.

The Spa was completely renovated and a Onsen Spa Suite was added to the existing facilities. Guest can enjoy a private Onsen bath which is incorporated into the Spa Suite for total privacy and any massage treatment can follow the Onsen bath without having to move.

The adult-only Half Moon Pool, one of the resort’s two swimming pools, offers spectacular views of the bay and total tranquillity, while an Exercise Room comes with modern multi-purpose equipment to ensure productive workouts.

Organic Garden and Nature Walk

Since 2003, as a part of the environmental initiative “Green Project” the following sustainability activities at the 8,000 square meter garden can be observed by guests: native vegetables and herb harvesting, explanation on flowers and plants which are utilized in the resort, the composting process of leftover food from the outlets is explained in various stages, a fruit extracts production to make a simple bathroom cleaner, a fish emulsion production can be observed which is used as a natural fertilizer. Even the crafting process of a homemade mosquito repellent from distilled citronella extract is shown. A visit to the organic farm is complementary and is conducted by the hotels Sustainability Manager and the landscaping team.

Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui

Alternative to a visit of the organic garden, the hotels offer a simple nature hike on a complimentary basis three times per week. Conducted by a knowledgeable team member who will guide guest to the highest point of the resort while hiking through the natural “jungle” like environment of Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui. On the way to the viewpoint guest can observe a native to Samui greenery and an array of 80 species of birds that can be found at Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui amongst other native Samui wildlife before arriving to a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the entire bay of Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui and Choengmon Beach.
*Website: https://www.garrya.com/en/destinati