Global Travel News

Bangkok, Thailand, August 02, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Thai Airways arranged THAI Commercial Conference 2025 at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park under the theme “Aim Further, Strive for New Heights” for its global commercial business partners to update its current business operation status and shows future commercial strategy for the second half of 2025 and into 2026. on products and services, the company convened business partners and ticketing agents from all regions worldwide across its route network—including Europe, Asia, Australia—as well as representatives from Thailand. The event was also attended by Thai Airways executives and staff from its international branch offices globally

The event gathered over 300 participants, including top travel agents from across Europe, Asia, Australia, and Thailand, as well as key business partners and senior executives. It served as a vital platform to reinforce confidence in the THAI brand and strengthen collaboration with commercial partners globally.

Under the strategic framework of “Trust in THAI,” the conference introduced the airline’s new commercial direction, showcased new product innovations, and unveiled the upgraded A321neo cabin and seating, which feature an entirely redesigned aircraft interior to elevate the passenger experience.

In line with THAI’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, the airline introduced the “Good Taste for a Good Cause” initiative—promoting Thai-made products that support local communities and small businesses, further expanding Thailand’s soft power on a global scale.

Another key highlight included presentations from expert guest speakers who shared insights on the global economic outlook, offering valuable perspectives on emerging travel trends and the future of the airline industry.

Through this landmark event, Thai Airways reaffirmed its commitment to delivering world-class service, fostering long-term partnerships, and positioning Thailand as a premier aviation and tourism hub in the region and beyond.

Thai airways exit from rehabilitation comes after a robust performance under its restructuring plan. Between April 2024 and March 2025, the airline reported an EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) of 40.31 billion baht — more than double the 20 billion baht target set within the rehabilitation framework.

Over the past four years, THAI has restructured its organization, optimized its fleet and route network, enhanced cabin interiors and service touchpoints, and strengthened its digital infrastructure to better serve passengers and commercial partners alike.

The transformation also included a successful debt restructuring, involving the conversion of liabilities into equity and the issuance of new shares to existing shareholders and staff. These crucial measures restored financial health. As of 31 March 2025, THAI reported shareholders’ equity of 55.22 billion baht a complete turnaround from the 127.23-billion-baht deficit recorded at the end of 2020.

On 8 July, The Central Bankruptcy Court officially approved THAl’s request to exit the rehabilitation program, following a formal submission made in April. This approval marks the culmination of a four-year transformation that has fundamentally reshaped the airline’s financial standing, operational efficiency, and long-term competitiveness.

It aimed to reaffirm our partners’ confidence in the company’s latest developments and strategic direction. The event also highlighted that the company has successfully completed its court-monitored rehabilitation and is now preparing for a major milestone — its relisting on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) scheduled for early August 2025.

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 01, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has signed a strategic partnership agreement with SYDEL, a French real estate investment company, to establish Dusit France – a joint venture created to bring Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to France for the first time.

Leveraging SYDEL’s local knowledge and operational expertise, the joint venture will focus on identifying opportunities for Dusit Hotels and Resorts, whose portfolio of nine brands spans the lodging spectrum – from affordable lifestyle hotels to full-service luxury retreats.

Brands being considered for the French market include Dusit Thani (Bespoke Luxury), Devarana – Dusit Retreats (Wellness Luxury), Dusit Collection (Character Luxury), Dusit Hotels (Upper Upscale), dusitD2 (Lifestyle Upscale), Dusit Princess (Upper Midscale), ASAI Hotels (Lifestyle Midscale), and Dusit Suites (Lifestyle Long Stay).

Together, Dusit and SYDEL will identify strategic locations, support asset owners with repositioning projects, and introduce innovative hotel concepts focused on delivering memorable guest experiences, championing well-being, and creating long-term sustainable value.

The partnership was formalised at an exclusive signing ceremony held on 10 July 2025 in Paris. At the event, Mr. Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer of Dusit International, shared the vision for Dusit France and outlined the group’s growth ambitions in the region.

“We are thrilled to partner with SYDEL to seek opportunities to expand Dusit’s footprint and bring our distinctive brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to France – one of the world’s most iconic travel destinations,” said Mr Cretallaz. “This partnership marks an important milestone in our global expansion strategy, and we are confident that our unique blend of cultural authenticity, innovation, and gracious service will resonate strongly with travellers and developers alike.”

Dusit’s portfolio currently spans 294 properties across 18 countries, including 55 operating under Dusit Hotels and Resorts and 239 luxury villas under Elite Havens. In Europe, the company operates the upper-upscale Dusit Suites Athens in Greece, located in the vibrant coastal district of Glyfada on the Athenian Riviera.

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Bangkok, Thailand, August 01, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / At Jim Thompson, The O.S.S. Room, afternoon tea is more than a ritual – it’s a celebration of curiosity, travel, and the unexpected. This season, The O.S.S. Room unveils an exciting new chapter in its afternoon tea offering, reimagining its signature sets through the lens of Jim Thompson’s adventurous life. The ‘Jim’s Mystery Box Grand Tea Experience’ and ‘Jim’s Pinto’ sets invite guests on a spirited culinary journey, that blends Thai heritage with international flair.

Known for its unique setting and storytelling approach, The O.S.S. Room offers more than just an afternoon tea – it’s a cultural experience steeped in history, mystery, and unmistakable Thai charm. With interiors that nod to espionage-era elegance and service that reflects warm Thai hospitality, it sets the stage for a culinary journey filled with surprises.

While the names of the afternoon tea sets remain unchanged, the menus have been updated to capture the essence of exploration, and both sets are served with a curated selection of tea.

‘Jim’s Mystery Box Grand Tea Experience’ begins with a curated selection of savory creations. Blue swimmer crab is paired with creamy Thai chili paste mayo in the Crab & Chili Bliss open sandwich, while slow-cooked Thai Kurobuta pork is layered with a sweet and aromatic spice blend inside a brioche to form the Pulled Pork Harmony Sandwiches. The Chicken Satay Ball reimagines the Thai street food favorite as a golden-fried croquette, served with a traditional cucumber and chili relish. Miang Khum Pla Yarng rounds out the savory section with grilled fish of the day on betel leaves topped with a tangy herbal dressing and cashew nuts.

On the sweet side, the menu features the Mulberry Fig Muffin with clotted cream and Jim Thompson mulberry jam, followed by the Cashew Nut Financier that delivers a rich, buttery bite with a subtle nutty sweetness. The Lychee Blossom Cake, pays tribute to one of Thailand’s most beloved fruits, while the Zesty Lime Meringue Tart adds a refreshing note with its tangy filling. The Mung Bean Dumpling Delight, Pa Ka Krong, brings a traditional touch, and The O.S.S. Macaron ties it all together with a bold Thai bitter lime filling inside a classic French shell.

Guests may also opt for ‘Jim’s Pinto’, a playful, tiffin-inspired set that offers a rotating assortment of light bites and sweets, each layer telling its own delicious story. This set celebrates Thai-style presentation and culinary nostalgia while remaining refreshingly modern.

Both afternoon tea sets are perfectly complemented by over 20 exceptional tea selections from Thailand and around the world. The highlight is the Jim Thompson Exclusive Blend – a distinctive Thai green tea artfully combined with mulberry leaves, lychee, and floral notes, offering a refreshing experience that perfectly accompanies the culinary journey.

Served within the elegant and atmospheric surroundings of The O.S.S. Room – a space that echoes Jim Thompson’s legacy of intrigue and cross-cultural connection – these updated afternoon tea menus are a must. Rich in flavor, rooted in tradition, and shaped by imagination, this is afternoon tea redefined.

The O.S.S. Room welcomes guests every day of the week, from Monday to Sunday, 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm (last order at 4.00 pm).

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 29, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Pagoda Chinese Restaurant, the award-winning Cantonese dining destination at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, invites hotel guests and local residents to come together and experience its new Weekday Set Lunch menus. Priced at just THB 488++ per person, an ideal setting for both corporate gatherings and casual get-togethers.

Curated with care by Chef Oscar Pun, this set menu is perfect for a productive business lunch or a relaxing midday escape. Guests can choose from two thoughtfully crafted menus, each featuring seven dishes that blend the timeless elegance of Cantonese cuisine with modern culinary artistry.

Set Menu A is a multi-course lunchtime feast that starts with a selection of handmade dim sum, including steamed prawn & vegetable dumplings with asparagus and lettuce, and classic pork & shrimp dumplings with shiitake mushrooms. Guests can then savor bamboo pith, fungus & wolfberry soup, jellyfish with Sichuan dressing, and roasted barbecued duck. Following two delicious main courses, stir-fried kale in oyster sauce, and baked prawns with egg noodles in superior stock, guests can end their lunch with a fried pancake with Chinese date paste.

Set Menu B also commences with delectable dim sum (truffle & vegetable dumplings with shiitake, corn & Chinese lettuce, and classic pork & shrimp dumplings with shiitake), followed by a sublime double-steamed wolfberry, mushroom & black chicken soup. Friends and colleagues can then enjoy crispy-fried prawns with fresh fruit salad, cold fungus with shredded chili sauce, stir-fried broccoli in oyster sauce, and fried rice with crispy pork and vegetables. This set menu also concludes with a fried pancake with Chinese date paste.

The Weekday Set Lunch is available from August 1 – October 31, 2025. Monday – Friday, 11.30 – 14.30 hrs, served in the elegant ambiance of Pagoda Chinese Restaurant.

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 29, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / GOCO Hospitality proudly announces its participation in World Wellness Weekend 2025, reaffirming its commitment to fostering holistic wellbeing for its team members, guests, and communities. Aligning with this year’s inspiring theme, Make Wellness Your Superpower, GOCO Hospitality and its properties will deliver a diverse programme of complimentary wellness activities, designed to promote health, happiness and harmony.

Joining this global initiative at Hero Level by hosting activities that engage the public, inspire the team and support local communities. From Bangkok to Bali, Samui to California, the company’s properties have curated meaningful experiences that encourage people to prioritise their wellbeing.

“We are always proud to support World Wellness Weekend, a brilliant initiative that inspires so many to make wellbeing a priority in their lives,” said Ingo Schweder, Founder and CEO of GOCO Hospitality. “Our teams across the world are passionate about contributing to this movement and helping to make a lasting global impact.”

GOCO-managed hospitality properties will present meaningful wellness experiences that include meditation and sound healing sessions, community outreach and donation drives, yoga classes, aqua gym activities, bodyweight training, and CSR initiatives such as beach clean-ups and children’s projects. Wellness walks, team runs, staff movement challenges, fire blessing ceremonies, nourishing breaks, and wellness-focused meals with detox shots are also among the activities curated to encourage participation and connection.

These events will take place between 19 and 21 September 2025, inviting guests, colleagues and local communities to engage in experiences that nurture body, mind and spirit.

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 29, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / A new journey begins at INDDEE. After six months of creative refinement and development, the 1 MICHELIN Star restaurant now invites guests to explore an evolved tasting experience, layered with new flavours, textures, destinations, and stories from across India.

INDDEE’s latest chapter introduces three new journeys with expanded course structure, playful reinventions, refined presentations, and greater guest engagement—while staying rooted in authenticity. All dishes represent thoughtful interpretations of Indian flavours through various techniques and premium ingredients.

• 10-Destination Journey: 4,900 THB ++
• 10-Destination Vegetable Journey: 4,200 THB ++
• 8-Destination Journey: 4,200 THB ++

Explorers of the new menu will see a delicate Parsi egg akuri executed with a delicate skill, INDDEE’s favorite butter pepper garlic entirely reimagined with a sweet leg of Hokkaido king crab and four new bites that express different techniques of Indian street food, to name a few.

A standout feature is the “Three Ways” main course that follows the idea of choosing Your route. Guests select from three regional directions. Similarly, they will be able to choose their preferred protein for two courses, deciding between palamós and carabineros (only in a 10-destination journey), and free-range organic chicken or grass-fed lamb.

A World of Pairings Awaits

To complement the new menus, INDDEE has elevated and expanded its beverage program — now proudly holding the No. 1 spot in Asia and the title of Best Medium-Sized List in the world, awarded in Vienna at the Star Wine List of the Year awards. The new wine menu now features five curated pairings:

• Beverage Experience – a mixed pairing journey featuring wine, sake, umeshu, etc.
• Wine Experience – INDDEE’s wine-focused route
• Zero Alcohol Experience – an adventurous exploration of no alcohol beverages
• Best of Both – blends the best of both worlds: alcohol & no alcohol pours
• Flexi Experience – customize based on your preferences, deciding on the amount of glasses, styles or grapes. Starts with minimum 3 glasses, additional glasses 450 THB++ each.

Beyond the kitchen, INDDEE has introduced a series of enhancements that shape the guest experience: from artisanal tableware and cutlery rests to more tableside service accessories and glassware. The reservation experience has also been upgraded and now offers seamless booking directly from the MICHELIN app, Instagram, Facebook, and Google.

To ensure culinary authenticity while evolving creatively, INDDEE collaborated with world-renowned Indian food historian Dr. Pushpesh Pant, whose guidance helped shape the narratives, flavors and relevance of ingredients, and historical depth of the experience.

“Our third chapter brings more freedom, more finesse, and more personal engagement,” says Sachin Poojary, INDDEE’s Head Chef. “It’s our most expressive and sophisticated journey yet.”

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Pattaya, Thailand, July 28, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / With a unique “hydro bar”, vistas of Pattaya Beach, and fiery entertainment, LAY Beach Club has opened in the heart of Thailand’s vibrant Pattaya.

The exciting new venue is situated on Beach Road on the Gulf of Thailand’s east coast, a short drive from Bangkok, and has already been dubbed “the place to be”.

The beach club’s crème de la crème is the hydro bar, an elegant cocktail pool where the water’s surface appears to seamlessly merge with the ocean. Dotted with submerged loungers, the hydro bar is surrounded by a white-sand area and deck featuring circle sofas and cabanas.

Also exuding a Mediterranean feel, the lounge and bar area anchoring the beach club caters to almost 250 people. The space is crowned by a chic rooftop lounge, with a capacity for more than 100 guests seated or 300 guests for cocktail events, affording panoramic views of Pattaya Beach.

The a la carte menu brims with Mediterranean and Asian favourites including artisanal sandwiches and wraps, hearty rice and pasta dishes, fresh seafood mains and signature specialities. Highlights with locally sourced seafood include ‘Hand shucked oysters with shallot mignonette, lemon and salsa verde’, and ‘Seafood paella rice with prawn, mussel, squid and clam’. Indulgent desserts such as the Sicily Cannoli generously filled with orange mascarpone, pistachio and drizzled in rich chocolate sauce round out the menu.

The beverage menu is extensive, featuring smoothies and shakes, juices, sodas, iced drinks, beers, wines, champagne, classic cocktails and all sorts of imaginative creations by the award-winning bar team.

Cocktails such as the pandan-scented ‘Blue Tides’, made up of vodka, coconut juice, pandan syrup and coconut milk topped with blue coconut foam, bring creative flair to the menu. ‘The Wave Rider’ is characterised by floral and citrus notes, featuring gin, Lillet Rosé, rose syrup, aloe vera juice, egg white and lime juice. A reinterpretation of a classic Bloody Mary, ‘Sriracha Spark’ packs a punch with clarified vodka, Sriracha sauce, tomato juice, green olive juice, lime, paprika, and salt and pepper.

“LAY Beach Club brings the atmosphere of the famed Mediterranean chill-out beach clubs to Pattaya, with a dynamic menu offering something for everyone,” said Javier Gimeno, the general manager at Meliá Pattaya Hotel, which manages LAY Beach Club. “By day, our sun-soaked beach club has a laid back feel and by night, it’s a lively hotspot with DJs spinning the decks, dance performances and LED visuals on our state-of-the-art giant LED screen.”

The evening’s entertainment is underscored by an enthralling 20-minute fire show packed with high-impact tricks and choreography.

Open daily from 11am until midnight, Lay Beach Club also caters to an array of events.

About Asset World Corp Public Company Limited
Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC), Thailand’s leading integrated lifestyle real estate group and a member of TCC Group, is redefining the country’s landscape of hospitality, commercial workspaces, and iconic lifestyle destinations with its diversified portfolio, strategically located in prime areas across the nation. Committed to creating new landmark projects that not only set new benchmarks for the industry but also strengthen Thailand’s position as a global sustainable tourism destination, AWC collaborates with world-renowned partners, including Marriott International, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Nobu Hospitality, Okura Hotels, Banyan Tree, Melia International, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Accor, and Hyatt, to deliver unforgettable experiences. Its portfolio features flagship commercial properties such as The Empire, Athenee Tower, Asiatique The Riverfront Destination, and Phenix, along with premier F&B destinations like ‘EA’ Rooftop at The Empire, offering world-class top cuisine. AWC is committed to delivering exceptional experiences while championing sustainability in every part of its operations to create long-term sustainable value for all stakeholders through initiatives under three key pillars of Better Planet, Better People, and Better Prosperity (3BETTERs), driving innovation and responsibility to inspire millions and elevate Thailand’s tourism and real estate industry to new heights.

About Meliá Hotels & Resorts
Meliá has 125 hotels in Europe (56), America (18), Cuba (16), Africa (5) and Asia (30). We are present in 32 countries and currently have 21 hotels under development in 11 countries. At Meliá Hotels & Resorts, we stand out for our unique Spanish style in the hospitality industry and for our warmth, closeness and passion for service. This means that we offer our guests a unique wellness experience. Our Spanish warmth and spontaneity are part of our Mediterranean roots and are always present in the Meliá experience. An experience that is enriched by providing thoughtful extra services. Paying attention to the smallest details and providing personalized experiences for each guest. How do we interpret wellness in the MELIÁ brand? We see wellness from an innovative perspective. It is not wellness applied only to nutrition or wellness services, it is 360º wellness. The wellness we want to convey is global. You can find it in all aspects of the brand from different perspectives: physical wellness, spiritual wellness, leisure wellness, social wellness, occupational wellness, environmental wellness, financial wellness and nutritional wellness.

About Meliá Hotels International
Founded in 1956 in Palma de Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International has more than 400 hotels open or in the process of opening, in more than 40 countries, and a portfolio of nine brands: Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ME by Meliá, The Meliá Collection, Paradisus by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ZEL, INNSiDE by Meliá, Sol by Meliá, and Affiliated by Meliá. The Company is one of the world’s leading hotel chains in the leisure segment and its experience in this area has allowed it to consolidate itself in the growing market of urban hotels inspired by leisure. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led it to be recognised as the most sustainable European hotel company in the world (chosen as “Sustainability Yearbook Member” in 2024 by S&P Global), as well as being a “Top Employer 2024” brand in Spain, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Italy, Germany, France and Vietnam.

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Serengeti, Tanzania, July 27, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Wilderness Collection,  a proudly Tanzanian-owned and managed portfolio, has successfully launched its second luxury lodge, Warangi Ridge, right in the heart of Serengeti National Park, offering front row seats to the legendary wildebeest migration.

Warangi Ridge has been beautifully integrated into a stunning granite cliff, perfectly positioned for maximum enjoyment of the views over the savanna grasslands and kopjes below.  Located in a restricted “rangers only” TANAPA Research Area of the park, with no neighbours within a 12 km radius, guests can enjoy this very exclusive wilderness away from the crowds, where predator sightings including cheetahs, leopards and lions, are prolific all year round.

Central guest facilities include an elegant library, lounge bar and restaurant as well as yoga deck, open air gym and spa, all tucked away between the acacia trees, with a waterfall and infinity pool claiming pride of place.

The all-inclusive lodge comprises fifteen thoughtfully designed, fully insulated tented suites. Designed by South Africa’s acclaimed interiors expert Les Harbottle, the tents pay homage to the silhouette of the endangered pangolin, four of which were spotted in the area. Each tent has its own deck with plunge pool and outdoor shower overlooking the sweeping vistas.  An interlinked two-bedroom suite is available for families.

A variety of activities are on offer including day and night game drives in open sided vehicles, river walks along the Orangi River, specialized bird walks and 2-to-3-hour guided eco-nature walks.  There are also child-friendly activities and treats to engage young guests aged 5-15.

Conveniently located just 41km from the Seronera airstrip, Warangi Ridge Lodge is poised to be the hottest new property in one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations!

Special Launch Offers: Stay More, Save More

• $800 per person per night
• 25% off each night after the 2nd night (excluding high season)
• 10% discount when combining stays at Crater’s Edge and Warangi Ridge

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Bangkok, Thailand, July 26, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong, the bold lifestyle hotel located in the heart of Bangkok’s dynamic Ratchaprasong district, is marking Mother’s Day this August with a series of engaging activities and limited-time offers to promote domestic tourism. As the first Moxy Hotel in Thailand and the largest in Asia Pacific outside China, the property continues to redefine the hotel experience with its playful atmosphere, vibrant design, and community-driven programming.

To celebrate the spirit of motherhood, Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong will host the “Mom’s Day Lunch Date” exclusively for its staff on Wednesday, 6 August 2025. This special event invites 10 lucky pairs of mothers and children to enjoy a heartwarming experience from 11 AM to 3 PM at Moxy Bar and Restaurant on 9^th floor. Participants will share a curated lunch, take part in bonding activities, enjoy a guided hotel tour, receive a photo keepsake, and bring home a meaningful gift to commemorate the day. The event reflects Moxy’s dedication to creating personal, memorable moments for both guests and team members.

In collaboration with The Platinum Fashion Mall’s “MOM-MORY – Hop Back, Snap Forward” campaign, Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong will also host six winning mother-child pairs on Monday, 11 August 2025, from 11 AM to 2 PM. Winners will enjoy the ‘Eat Out with Marriott Bonvoy #ATTHEMOXY’ experience at Moxy Bar and Restaurant and receive special souvenirs. This activation reinforces the hotel’s ongoing commitment to engaging with local communities and supporting meaningful celebrations.

Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong is also proud to be the host venue for “Energize Your Day,” a wellness event organized by the Thailand & Cambodia Marriott Worldwide Business Councils in partnership with HealthAtWork, Southeast Life Insurance and MercerMarsh Benefits. Taking place on Thursday, 21 August 2025, from 2 PM, the session will be led by Khun Bo Apichaya Kunadirek, a professional physical therapist. Marriott associates will benefit from an informative health talk and guided exercise session, as well as complimentary health check-ups, including bone, muscle, and fat mass analysis, blood sugar level testing, BMI measurement, and personalized health consultations. The event is part of Marriott’s ongoing commitment to employee wellness and workplace well-being.

In addition, Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong is participating in the government’s “Tiew Thai Kon La Krueng” campaign, aimed at stimulating local tourism during the low season. Thai nationals can take advantage of subsidized rates for stays until 31 October 2025. Moxy Queen rooms (room only) are available at THB 2,118.5 net on weekdays (with 50% government support) and THB 2,542.2 net on weekends and public holidays (40% support). Moxy Twin rooms (room only) start at THB 2,236.5 net on weekdays and THB 2,683.8 net on weekends and holidays. Bookings must be made at least 3 days in advance by filling in this form at tiny.cc/MoxyBKK_Half-Half, contacting the hotel directly by calling +66 2 209 5999.

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Bali, Indonesia, July 24, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / There are so many places that I have yet to visit that I rarely return to destinations, even top-notch ones that I have thoroughly enjoyed.

The Damai, a little sanctuary of serenity in Bali, is a firm exception to that rule. Think exclusive, remote, and stylish. And definitely return worthy.

Tucked away in the hills above Bali’s northern beaches, The Damai is a privately owned bijou resort where the air is clean, the sky clear and the sounds muted, except, sometimes, for the local frogs.

The Damai sits in the lush green hills above sleepy Lovina. There are just 14 beautifully appointed villas in lush tropical gardens with stunning views over the North Bali coast and the distant volcanoes of Java.

The award-winning poolside restaurant serves delicious local and international cuisine with organic ingredients from the resort’s own gardens and farm.

The Damai is a perfect spot to relax from the hectic world outside; to enjoy the private luxury of a pool villa or simply to relax in your private pool after a massage. With a few hours of arriving you will be zoned out, ready to start regenerating.

There are plenty of activities on offer; a trip to one of the spectacular local waterfalls, perhaps, a boat ride out to swim with dolphins on one of the local fishing vessels, or maybe a vineyard tour, wine tasting and picnic at a local vineyard (yes, really!).

But my bet is that you will spend most of your stay in your pool, or reading a book, or having an al fresco treatment.

Unlike many of Bali’s top resorts, The Damai really is far away from the hustle and bustle. You will find yourself far from the crowds, and close to the true heart of Bali, local people going about their daily lives.

Maybe you will venture to a dance class in the village. Savour the scent of cloves in the breeze. Take a trek to a deserted temple or a secret waterfall. You are only a few hours from Kuta or Canggu, but in a very different world.

After taking in the magnificent sunsets, the only sounds you are likely to hear are snatches of traditional music drifting from one of the small nearby villages, or perhaps a rooster crowing.

In addition to the marvellous pool villas, the lush greenery and superb food, the big strength of The Damai is its staff; the vast majority of them locals.

The service here is uniformly smiling and quietly efficient. Nothing is too much trouble whether you are enjoying a cocktail, taking a golf buggy trip from your villa to the main complex, or need help with a restaurant reservation at your next destination.

The Damai describes its style as “elegant simplicity”. All the villas are surrounded by private gardens and you are unlikely to see any other guests unless you wish to.

The food is easy to enjoy. Simple brasserie dishes. Balinese classics. Tropical, local and good. Most evenings dinner is served by the poolside, by a roaring fire, under the stars, with view over the boats at sea, catching the fish for tomorrow’s menu.

“We use organic ingredients wherever possible.” staff tell me. “Many things we grow ourselves. Herbs and salads from our market garden. Honey from the Damai bees. Poultry, eggs and fresh coconut oil from our village. Fish from the local fishermen. Very few imports, and always of the best quality we can find.”

In addition to the a la carte dinner menu there is always a three-course set menu of Balinese favourites. And don’t miss out on the cocktails – alcoholic or otherwise. They are splendid and potentially addictive.

Breakfast features a choice of western or Balinese menus, but we began each day with fresh fruit platters and a shot of “jamu” – a local herbal elixir.

You can then go traditional, or local, maybe with Mie Goreng, fried noodles with vegetables and chicken satés.

Dinner is usually enjoyed al fresco next to the main pool. Think menu favourites like yellowfin tuna grilled bleu with ripe local mango, pickled raisins, sweet and sour soy vinaigrette with macadamia and oyster mushrooms, or poached village chicken with fresh zucchini, cucumber, dill oil, noodles and a touch of wasabi.

Stay ultra regional with grilled local fish of the day, beurre blanc or spicy soy sauce, with pilaf rice and steamed local greens. Your villa will be just a 10-minute drive through the countryside – past local temples and farms – to the beach resort of Lovina.

The Damai Bali was recently nominated for the TOP25 Hotels Bali – World’s Best Luxury Hotels award: a pity as I would prefer it to remain undiscovered for just a little longer.

It was praised for couples seeking a romantic honeymoon in an idyllic, private setting; travellers desiring a peaceful retreat with world-class amenities and attentive service, and for gastronomy enthusiasts eager to experience the culinary offerings.

“We are honoured to be recognised among the world’s best luxury hotels,” said Damai GM Andres Rubio.

“This nomination is a testament to our team’s dedication to creating unforgettable experiences for every guest. We look forward to welcoming travellers from Bali, across Asia, and around the globe to discover the magic of The Damai.”

One note: Unless you are brave/foolish enough to drive yourself, you’ll need to book a hotel transfer. You are a good 3-4 hours from Denpasar Airport, and it is an interesting, albeit slow, drive.

You can stop along the way at Singarajah, Git Git Falls or in Ubud to break up the journey.

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