InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) is set to open its 25th hotel in Thailand. The group, which currently operates across five separate brands nationwide, has confirmed plans to open The InterContinental Yao Yai Resort in Phang Nga Bay in 2020.
Around 30 minutes’ drive from both Phuket and Krabi airports, the resort’s strategic location has long been a favourite spot for tourists due to its picturesque beaches and limestone cliff formations; around five million tourists book their stay in the bay each year, making it one of the most favoured destinations in Thailand. The new resort’s proximity to several travel hubs is expected to facilitate more convenient arrivals and departures in the region, thereby maximising holiday time and lessening the stress of travel for the many guests who come to Phang Nga Bay.
“The island is gaining increasing popularity amongst discerning travellers who seek a more exclusive experience,†said Khun Sornkom Kitprasan, President of Soraya Development Company Limited (SDCL), who has signed an agreement with IHG to build the resort. “We are confident that the InterContinental brand’s premium offerings, combined with the hotel’s stellar location, will be well-received when we open our doors in 2020,†said Mr. Kitprasan.
The new resort from IGH will feature a total of 170 rooms, split into four separate categories: ocean view rooms, located on the top floor and boasting panoramic views of the ocean, with their own plunge pool; family-friendly suites featuring water slides, pool access and the signature Planet Trekkers’ Programme, which allows families to explore together; tropical villas, which are one-bedroom units on the lagoon and creeks; and the beachfront pool villas that boast unobscured views across the whole beach.
Built on the largest island in Phang Nga Bay, The InterContinental Yao Yai Resort also offers excellent views of Bird-Nest Island and Phang Nga Island, located just 700 metres from the resort’s very own private beach. Facilities at the new hotel include three restaurants and bar outlets, a gym, pool, spa and resort centre. Meeting facilities and wedding arrangements are also available.
Rajit Sukumaran, who is Chief Development Officer, Asia Middle East Africa at IHG recently stated: “Together with our trusted partner, Soraya Development Company Limited, we are delighted to bring our world-class InterContinental Hotels & Resorts brand to Koh Yao Yai. We are expanding our luxury footprint to give affluent travellers a new destination to explore and unwind.â€
With this ambitious new project from IHC and SDCL, the number of tourists coming to Phang Nga Bay is expected to rise further still, in response to continuous infrastructural development in the region.
