A conversation with Laguna Phuket’s VP and Deputy Managing Director, Paul Wilson.
“Laguna Phuket, a sprawling 2,500-rai resort complex in the heart of Cherngtalay, has emerged as one of the most dynamic and prosperous destinations in Phuket,” said Paul Wilson, Vice President and Deputy Managing Director.
Mr Paul Wilson, VP and Deputy Managing Director Laguna Phuket.
“The 18-hole golf course, residential developments, and luxury hotels spread across 3 kilometres of pristine beachfront have positioned Laguna Phuket at the forefront of Phuket’s tourism revival.”
Post-Pandemic Recovery and Expansion
“Phuket’s tourism industry has seen a remarkable recovery since the pandemic, thanks in part to Thailand’s innovative “Sandbox” initiative, which allowed international tourists to return earlier than in many other destinations,” says Wilson.
He added, “Laguna Phuket has capitalised on this momentum, continuing to expand its residential portfolio and developing new recreational facilities, including expansive landscaped parks with walking trails, outdoor exercise, dog park, regenerative “pocket forests” and a new residents beach club directly on the beachfront. The resurgence has been bolstered by significant developments throughout Phuket, with Cherngtalay now regarded as the island’s hottest area for tourism and real estate.”
Wilson reports a promising outlook for Laguna Phuket in 2024, forecasting a 5% increase in occupancy rates compared to 2023. “This rise in occupancy is complemented by a substantial 15% increase in average room rates, driven by strong demand for luxury accommodations. As a result, revenue per available room (RevPAR) is expected to see an impressive 18-20% rise, reflecting the overall strength of the destination.”
“The positive trend is not isolated to Laguna Phuket. Recent data from STR, a leading global market data provider on the hotel industry, shows similar growth across Phuket’s luxury hotel sector. This indicates a robust demand for high-end travel experiences on the island, supported by steady interest from European and American markets, along with emerging markets such as the Middle East and Russia,” he added.
Dog Park & Family Maze.
Challenges and Adaptations
While the recovery has been strong, Wilson acknowledges the challenges the post-pandemic landscape poses. “One significant change is the shortening of booking windows, with travellers making decisions much closer to departure dates. This shift has necessitated a more dynamic approach to forecasting and planning,” he shared.
He said, “The pandemic also highlighted the importance of human capital in the hospitality industry. As many workers returned to their home provinces during the pandemic, Laguna Phuket has had to adapt to a more competitive recruitment environment. The company has focused on maintaining a flexible workforce and offering attractive working conditions to retain top talent, which has served it well in navigating these challenges.”
Angsana Laguna Phuket.
A Cautiously Optimistic Outlook
Looking at the immediate future, Wilson remains cautiously optimistic. While 2024 is a banner year for Laguna Phuket, the company remains vigilant about potential disruptions. “In travel, you always have to be somewhat paranoid,” Wilson notes, “Always looking for what could trip you up.” This cautious approach has guided Laguna Phuket’s development strategy, with the company opting for phased expansions that allow flexibility in response to market conditions.
New projects include the wellness-focused Garrya brand.
In closing, Mr Paul Wilson looks ahead, saying, “Laguna Phuket continues to be a leader in sustainable development, carefully balancing expansion with environmental stewardship. New projects like the wellness-focused Garrya brand and the expansive Laguna Lakelands residential community are designed to integrate seamlessly with the natural surroundings, preserving the unique charm that has made Phuket a sought-after destination for travellers worldwide.”
Written by: Andrew Wood
