Against the breathtaking backdrop of the Andaman Sea, Khao Lak Marriott Beach Resort & Spa unveiled itself to the world’s media this weekend with a spectacular Grand Media Presentation. Sixty media representatives, VIP guests, and tourism leaders were invited to experience first-hand Marriott International’s newest luxury beachside property in Southern Thailand.
The resort, owned by prominent Thai investor Krisada Kanchanalai, represents a bold vision of refined comfort and authentic Thai hospitality. It is located on one of Khao Lak’s most serene and pristine stretches of coastline. The event welcomed leading travel media, industry partners, and dignitaries from across the region to taste what promises to become one of Thailand’s premier resort destinations.
A warm welcome awaits!
Held from 25 to 27 April 2025, the three-day celebration featured a thoughtfully designed itinerary that blended discovery, relaxation, and curated cultural experiences.
Views from Surin Island’s Sea Gypsy Village
Highlights included a scenic excursion to the unspoilt Surin Islands, a Mediterranean-inspired beachfront dinner, and an intimate art exhibition by Leica Ambassador Chut Janthachotibutr.
The centrepiece of the weekend was Friday’s official press conference, featuring remarks by Krisada Kanchanalai, Debdyuti Dasgupta (Dev), General Manager of Khao Lak Marriott Beach Resort & Spa, Brad Edman, Market Vice President for Marriott International (Thailand, Cambodia & Myanmar), Uthit Limsakul, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (Phang Nga Office), and Lertsak Ponklin, President of the Phang Nga Tourism Association. The panel shared insights into the vision, collaboration, and investment that brought the resort to life.
GM Debdyuti talks with Andrew J Wood.
Debdyuti Dasgupta, General Manager of Khao Lak Marriott Beach Resort & Spa, in an exclusive interview, said,
“Launching a premium resort in a destination like Khao Lak certainly came with logistical challenges—especially in a post-pandemic context,” said Mr. Debdyuti. “But with the strength of Marriott’s global network, the support of our regional procurement cluster, and the dedication of an extraordinary team, we overcame those hurdles swiftly. What you see today is the result of seamless collaboration and shared commitment.”
Saturday night delivered the most memorable moment of the weekend: a dazzling Grand Gala Dinner held in the resort’s elegant ballroom. Executive Chef Marco Sanchez masterfully created a five-course menu. Paired with a selection of fine wines, each course showcased a harmonious blend of creativity, flavour, and presentation.
“It was one of the best gala dinners I’ve ever attended,” said media journalists. The author agrees, “From the precision of the wine pairings to the elegance of the service, it was a truly world-class dining experience.”
The weekend concluded on Sunday with optional wellness and community activities, including beach yoga at sunrise, a CSR activity under Marriott’s Serve 360 initiative, and a hands-on Thai herbal compress workshop. A closing lunch at the Thai Curry Sala restaurant, featuring authentic regional curries, offered a final taste of the local culinary tradition.
Your daily itinerary – listed!
The Khao Lak Marriott Beach Resort & Spa Grand Media Presentation set the tone for what is poised to become an exceptional property in Marriott’s Thailand portfolio—an inspired retreat for leisure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and culturally curious travellers alike.
By Andrew J Wood
BIO:
Andrew, a seasoned travel writer and former hotel General Manager, has been a leading expert in Thailand’s hospitality and tourism scene since 1991. With over 40 years of industry experience, he is a Napier University, Edinburgh graduate in Hotel and Hospitality. Originally from Yorkshire, UK, he gained valuable experience with Thistle Hotels, Hilton International in Paris, and Sheraton Hotels in London before moving to Thailand. Andrew has managed some of the country’s top hotels and is a dedicated Skålleague, having served in leadership roles within Skål International. A respected lecturer and writer, his insights are widely followed in the industry.
