The line-up of boats for the 2013 Samui Regatta, which is set to take place May 25th to June 1st off Chaweng Beach on the tropical Island of Samui, is looking strong with a mix of top international racers and regional regatta veterans set to compete. Organised by Regattas Asia, a leading regatta and marine-based sporting event management company in Asia, Samui Regatta is celebrating its 12th year.

Familiar faces on the Asian regatta scene Frank Pong (HKG) and Geoff Hill (HKG) will be leading the charge with the two largest boats in the fleet – Jelik (75ft) and Antipodes (72ft), respectively. Battling it out with them in IRC Zero will be Sam Chan’s TP52 Freefire (HKG), a team from the Royal Malaysian Navy sailing their DK47 Uranus and the Aquila Reichel Pugh 45 Katsu (AUS) skippered by owner Ben Copley.

In the ever-growing 40-foot fleet, the top contenders are converging at Samui Regatta to battle it out for the glory in this the final event of the prestigious 2012/13 Asian Yachting Grand Prix Championship. Competing in IRC One, EFG Bank Mandrake (HKG), skippered by Nick Burns is back to defend their title on the well campaigned Mills 40. After loosing the title on the last day of last year’s regatta, Bill Bremner and crew on Foxy Lady VI (SIN/CAN) are back to make ammends and will be up against Walawala 2 (SIN), WindSikher (SIN), Rikki Tikki Tavi (SIN), Elektra (HKG), Siren (HKG), El Coyote (AUS) and Dynamite (AUS).

“It’s great to see such a competitive fleet of boats lining up for the Samui Regatta. Indeed, across all the classes there are some very evenly matched boats and crews and I’m sure all will enjoy the five days of racing we have planned for them,” said Simon James, Race Director.

Having lost out on the IRC Two title by a single point last year, Lennart Fahlgren is back with Amanda (SWE) and will be racing against Souay 1 (CAN), Moon Shadow (THA), local favourite Royal Thai Navy 1, and Rolex Sydney Hobart veteran Matt Allen on his Adams 10 Ichiban (AUS). With victories at the Phuket King’s Cup and Top of the Gulf regattas in the the last 12 months, Ichiban looks the one to beat.

A battle of the SunOdyssey’s is set for the Charter class with the SunOdyssey 43 DS Paprika II (THA) up against two SunOdyssey 409 2.10 – The Waugh Ship (Ti-Punch) (AUS), skippered by Barry Waugh and Andaman Sea Pilot (THA), skippered by local regatta veteran Andy Dowden.

With last years winner of the Multihull class Fantasia unable to defend their title this year, a new winner is set to be crowned from a line-up of some of the region’s best multihull sailors. Largest in the class is the Crowther 42 Sonic (THA), skippered by Kirati Assakul who will be up against the well-travelled Corsair 38 Miss Saigon (GBR), skippered by David Liddell, Radab Kanjanavanit and his all-Thai crew on Cedar Swan (THA), and locally-built Crazy Horse (THA), skippered by Kunta.

If the winds are blowing, one to watch out for in the Multihulls is Henry Kaye’s Seacart 26 Sweet Chariot (THA), which favours the strong winds Samui Regatta is famed for.

“Samui Regatta has become well known for its top quality racing and professional on-water race management, and again this year the ISAF International Race Officer Ross Chisholm will be calling the shots on-the-water,” commented James.

The Regatta is equally well known for its onshore social scene and the beachfront Regatta Tavern which becomes the focal point early evening as the sailors come ashore. The five days of racing is combined with six nights of parties, including the offsite Beach Republic Party – a mid-week highlight – and the closing Gala Dinner and presentations hosted by Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui under the stars – a fitting finale to the ‘Tropical Island Regatta’.

The 2013 Samui Regatta is organised by leading regatta services provider, Regattas Asia, with strong support from Samui businesses and staff.

For more information, visit www.samuiregatta.com.

In the world of luxury resorts brand is paramount, experience has replaced facilities and stories create emotional bonds. Visitors are guests and the experience is the memory.  Synonymous with distinctive architecture and interior design balanced with functionality and exceptional service, Design Hotels™ lead the way in this guest-centric, experience-driven hospitality world and Thailand’s The Beach Samui is one of the most recent boutique resorts to join the Design Hotels™ collection.

The Beach Samui is the latest boutique resort and Private Residence Club from an exciting and award-winning collaboration between yoo, one of the world’s leading design teams and the Absolute World Group, with architectural conceptualisation by London-based David Archer Architects.

The Beach Samui is part of an engaging story. A story of creation – the creation of a unique and consciously designed resort in a tranquil fishing village on the southern tip of Samui Island with panoramic views over Ang Thong Marine National Park; a story of firsts – Thailand’s first yoo designed resort to become a member of Design Hotels™ and the first Private Residence Club in the Absolute World Group’s eclectic portfolio of boutique resorts in Asia; and a story of awareness – awareness of the resort’s surrounds and responsibilities, building on a brown field site, using locally sourced materials, solar energy and natural water filtration systems.

The Beach Samui is today writing a new chapter in its story. More than 400 hotels apply for Design Hotels™ membership each year, but on average, only 5% are accepted. Design Hotels™ are chosen for their originality in concept. A combination of holistic concepts, location, architecture, design, local integration, corporate ethics and – most importantly – the people behind the concept all contribute to that originality. Design Hotels are “Made by Originals”.

“The location, yoo designed interiors and the philosophy of the resort will inspire our guests old and new who are looking for something different, new holiday experiences and memories to treasure in the most breathtaking of surroundings, the apartments are also available as second home ownership creating a truly exciting lifestyle proposition. The project has been a true labor of love for myself and our creative development team and our joining with Design Hotels™ exclusive and eclectic portfolio of unique hotels around the world is a part of The Beach Samui’s growing story. ” commented Bryan Lunt, CEO of the Absolute World Group.

The Beach Samui and the “Originals” involved in the resort’s conceptualisation and realisation make a perfect partnership, together creating a consciously developed resort with personality and a fantastic story with one of the world’s leading design teams. The new chapter to this story is The Beach Samui’s recognition as part of a collection of the worlds leading design hotels.

Samui Island is also writing a story, a story of Brand Samui, which is being written through unique resort experiences and the growth of branded resorts on the Island. The Beach Samui is the latest addition to this storyline and underscores the Island’s boutique approach and upmarket positioning.

“Samui has developed from a relatively unknown backwater 20 years ago to a luxury boutique island resort destination with some outstanding resorts, a vivid culture and a stunning seascape. The growth of branded developments and the desire to do something different has lead us to develop The Beach Samui, which is the latest boutique resort addition to Samui’s story and through our “local first” approach contributes directly to the Island’s sustainable future,” added Lunt.

2013 is an auspicious year for both the Absolute World Group and Design Hotels™, the former celebrating 15 years of success and the latter 20 years. And together they will celebrate the opening of The Beach Samui in Autumn 2013.

The Beach Samui comprises a range of 21 contemporary suites and penthouses, all with uninterrupted sea views, private terraces with hand carved hot tubs and unique designer interiors. Private beachside cabana relaxation areas provide the perfect escape for guests, an exclusive holistic spa with steam room, plunge pool, treatment room and gym offers the perfect respite. The hotel’s wellbeing bar and restaurant will serve an international menu with an abundance of local organic produce so guests can dine on wholesome dishes whilst taking in the island view or watching the night’s sky reflect the stars in the illuminated infinity pool at their feet.

In-room amenities boast the latest AV equipment, wireless internet, satellite television, iPad check in, temperature cooling systems, branded beach accessories, organic toiletries, and recycling bins to encourage guest participation in the resort’s sustainable attitude, which includes solar energy, locally sourced materials and natural water filtration systems.

A sustainable conscience is at the heart of The Beach Samui story and is now documented in the celebrated 20^th Anniversary edition of the much celebrated Design Hotels™  Book, available to order at www.designhotels.com/specials/the_design_hotels_book_2013

www.thebeachsamui.com
www.designhotels.com/the_beach_samui

About The Beach Samui

The Beach Samui, the Absolute World Group’s premier Private Residence Club & Boutique Hotel, consists of a consciously designed range of 21 contemporary suites and penthouses all with uninterrupted sea views and each with its own hand carved private terrace hot tub, covering a footprint of 820m sq. Each apartment comes complete with a superior yoo Studio designed furniture collection exclusively conceptualised and sourced for The Beach Samui.  All apartments feature breath-taking sea views, private terraces with hot tubs and luxurious interiors with an average apartment size of 53m sq.

As a Private Residence Club, independently operated by Absolute Resorts & Hotels, service is key and as a personal project of Absolute World Group CEO Bryan Lunt, no expense has been spared, down to iPad check-in, the latest in-room AV technology, and Yoga and Well-Being programme, to the sensory foot baths as you leave the sandy beach.  Seamless five-star concierge service and shared ownership advantages also include the exclusive use of Absolute’s speedboat to explore the nearby islands, the use of complementary golf equipment when clients choose to visit one of the one of the nearby world class golf courses, plus the pre-ordering of services and sundries direct to each apartment upon arrival.

In partnership with yoo and with the internationally renowned architect David Archer, Absolute have consciously created this extraordinary resort to mirror its outstanding surroundings.

www.thebeachsamui.com

About Design Hotels™

Design Hotels™ represents and markets a curated selection of more than 240 independent hotels in over 40 countries across the globe.

More than a collection of hotels, the company is a collection of stories. Each property reflects the ideas of a visionary hotelier, an “Original,” someone with a passion for genuine hospitality, cultural authenticity, thought-provoking design and architecture. Each “Original” stands for the individual, aesthetic and service driven experience that his or her hotel provides.

Founded by Claus Sendlinger in 1993, Design Hotels™ offers its members insightful travel industry knowledge, from market trend consultancy to international sales representation. The company has its headquarters in Berlin and branches in London, Barcelona, New York, Singapore and Perth.

www.designhotels.com

About Made by Originals

Made by Originals takes a deeper look into the world of travel, hospitality and culture.  With the goal of being a resource for inspiration, it draws inspiration and content from extraordinary hotels around the world and the creative communities supporting them.

From SoHo in New York to Little India in Singapore, architects, designers, artists, hoteliers, cooks, DJ’s, journalists and fashion designers support us with interviews, experiences, photo galleries and behind-the-scenes looks at their life and work.

www.madebyoriginals.com

About yoo

From Buenos Aires to New York, London to Melbourne, yoo’s name is celebrated for its innovative design flair, stand-out interiors and uber chic styling.

The yoo Studio, has big imaginations, providing a choice of looks and styles to suit individual lifestyles. Sourcing the best quality fittings and furniture from around the world to create interiors that are imaginative, rare and individual.

Having co-founded the Manhattan Loft Corporation, which transformed urban London living in the 1990s with its regenerated loft spaces, property entrepreneur John Hitchcox formed yoo in 1999 with the world’s most celebrated designer, Philippe Starck. Since then yoo has continually raised the bar for contemporary design, electrifyingly redefining the simple word ‘home’ in award-winning schemes around the world – ranging from multi-million dollar luxury homes in the Cotswold’s to resort living in Europe and South East Asia.

With a strong global identity; yoo is now an international lifestyle brand synonymous with quality design. With over 51 projects completed in over 27 countries, yoo has also made a foray into products with their first book ‘Interiors by yoo’ which has sold over 30,000 copies internationally.

www.yoo.com

Koh Samui is getting set to hold its first charity Midnight Run on Saturday March 30 in Chaweng.

Usually when people think of Koh Samui they’re thinking about blue seas, skies and plenty of partying, but increasingly the island is getting a cachet for sporting activities.  Following the triathlon, this new race is shortly to be inaugurated with the aim of it becoming a fixture and is set to attract up to 2,000 spectators and become one of Thailand’s annual sporting and social events.

The Midnight Run is organized by the Thai Hotel Association (THA) and the Thai Association of Koh Samui (TAKS).  Starting at midnight, the race begins and finishes at the landmark Koh Samui bar, The Reggae Pub, which is situated on the banks of Chaweng Lake.  Racers will have a choice of competing on either a one loop circuit of 5 kilometers or two loops of 10 kilometers, before ending up again at the Reggae Pub.

The Koh Samui Midnight Charity Run will take place on Saturday March 30.

The races will be split into various categories depending on age and gender with the winners receiving prizes and trophies.  There will also be a special prize for the best fancy dress outfit.  Everyone who crosses the finish line will also receive a special commemorative medal.

The cost of participation is 400 baht per person for the 5 km Run or for the 10 km Run, if booked prior, or 800 baht on the day.  If booked prior, payment can be made at www.samuimidnightrun.com.

The beautiful island of Koh Samui has it all. With white sandy beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and clear oceans, it really is an idyllic island paradise. It is a lesser known holiday destination, but is one of Thailand’s secret havens: it was only discovered by tourists in the last 20 years and since then has grown in reputation as being a really fabulous island destination.

We’ve taken a look at some of the natural wonders that are a big part of what makes this island so special, and the places that you’ll want to visit whilst you’re there.

Na Muang waterfalls

The beauty of these two waterfalls is not to be missed. Twin waterfalls are carved naturally into the rocks in the shady forested area of the island, and tree roots help channel the water into the depths of the pool at the bottom. You can swim in the pools here, making for an incredible experience, and you can also head here to start an adventure elephant trekking around the island. If you take a short ten minute walk up a rocky path, you will reach the second largest waterfall on the island, so this whole area is well worth exploring.

The southern peninsula

The whole southern area of the island is really spectacular in terms of natural beauty, with huge spans of untouched forest, clear stretches of coconut palms all the way to the sea and hidden bays and beaches that provide relaxation and escape from the more popular spots.

Hin-Ta and Hin-Yai

These two stones, Grandmother and Grandfather, are famous. Naturally crafted by the elements, they closely resemble male and female genitalia. These stones are famous among locals and tourists alike, and many Thai people visit them from the mainland. There are some great shops nearby in the area selling wonderfully authentic Thai produce, including beautiful bowls and vases made from coconut palm wood, and a selection of sweets and local delicacies.

The interior

Traversing into the centre of the island is more than worth the walk. If you are itching to explore a bit more of the incredible landscape, you can enter the interior of the island either from just south of Nathon, or from Maenam. In Samu you’ll find a wide range of rental accommodation, so finding somewhere to stay in this area to suit your requirements and budget shouldn’t be a problem.

Overlap Stone

High above Lamai, the cliff top has a precarious yet breathtaking overhanging stone, and if you make it all the way there you are rewarded with a beautiful view of the island, plus a chance to experience first hand the immense natural beauty of this geographical marvel.

Mark Cox is Director at Samui Island Villas.

You can now indulge your senses at the 3rd Samui Fine Dining Festival, which from March 1 – April 30. The two-month dining extravaganza is presented by a superb selection of Samui’s finest restaurants, together with an elite group of international chefs based on the island.

Each evening, a selection of 16 restaurants present diners with the very best they have to offer. Special six-course menus are served, consisting of a cold starter, a hot starter, a fish course, sorbet, a meat course and finally a dessert. The menus are priced from THB 1,800 – 4,900, with no hidden charges. Gourmets will be pleased to know that each course is offered with a matching wine. Alternatively, guests are welcome to order from the restaurant’s drinks list.

Samui is an ideal spot for dolce far niente, so this fact invites for an antipode. The festival is the first joint event in the history of the island which caters directly to tourism and is designed to promote the island as a holiday destination via its first class dining facilities. The objective is to introduce a genuine touristic concept which would touch the interest of as many tourists possible via a period of two months, resulting in a quality activity on an international level.

The participating restaurants are Banyan Tree, Beach Republic, Chef’s Table, Dining on the Rocks, Le Jaroen, Nikki Beach, Ochos, Rockpool, Sala Samui, Sui Kin Pan Asian Restaurant, The Barge Fine Dining, The Edge, The Five Islands Restaurant, The Terrace, Tree Tops and Zazen.

There are 2 special events during the festival, namely the Opening Gala Dinner on 1 March at the Banyan Tree (featuring a menu paired with five different Champagne vintages) and a fine-dining evening at Nikki Beach on 22 March with free-flowing Champagne – courtesy of Lombard.

“Without the impact of Samui’s excellent chefs, the festival wouldn’t function,” says Horst Hornung, the event’s organiser. “They’re the ones who make it happen by turning cooking into a culinary zeitgeist objective.”

Organised by the Cool Genie Group, the Samui Fine Dining festival is a corporate activity between hotels, resorts, private restaurants, suppliers and local media. There is additional cooperation from Absolute World, Absolute Hotels & Resorts, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Bangkok Airways, The Bayside Group, Delivering Asia Communications, Lombard Champagne, G Four Fine Wines, Truffles Exclusive and Trend Fashion.

A Bangkok Fine Dining Festival will follow in June.
For reservation & menus, visit http://www.samuifinediningfestival.com/

Samui’s market-wide hotel occupancy grew 9% in 2012, bolstered by growth in airlift to the island. “The tide has turned positive for tourism in Samui as the island clocked in a historical high market-wide occupancy of 68% last year. Two key drivers have been the surge of direct  international flights and a marked increase in domestic travel.

A key catalyst of change in trading  conditions has been Bangkok Airways ongoing upgrading of its fleet, which  has provided a substantial increase in airline seat capacity. While the carrier is continuing to upgrade aircraft to larger and more modern Airbuses and slowly phase out older ATR 72 propeller planes, the ominous restriction on total daily flights has created a non-moving ceiling, which even Bruce Lee could not punch through.

Our near-term outlook is that Samui’s hotel industry is expected to enjoy a continued upswing. This is bolstered by a favorable pipeline as only a small number of new hotels are expected to come online over the next few years. Though our eyes and ears remain tuned to Bangkok Airways appeal process in expanding the flight capacity ceiling, as this remain the markets biggest self-induced limitation.”

Airline Indicators

• Samui Airport continued to show strong results in 2012 with a substantial growth in total passenger arrivals of 15% over the previous year. This was led by a 40% rise in the international sector, while the domestic leg ticked up 13%.
• A new development is the Koh Phangan Private Airport which is scheduled to commence its construction by the first half this year and set to complete in 2014. Its completion will benefit Koh Samui with more airline seats available for direct passengers to the outlaying islands.

Tourism Indicators

• Germany was again the number one international source market to the island for the third consecutive year, followed by U.K., Australia and Russia. Thai visitors represented only 9% of total tourists.

Hotel Performance

• Hotel-wide occupancy was on the rise, registering 68% vs. 59% in 2011. However the growth in room night demand was offset by an 11% decline in average room rate. The resulting impact to RevPAR was a slight increase of 3%.
• The five-year trend has showed gradual improvements in average occupancy of 2% year on year growth, which has been offset by a slight decline in the average room rate of 2% annually.
• A key market insight is that branded hotels are sensitive to external events which impact the island’s tourism numbers. This is mainly due to the fact that most of these properties are positioned in upper tier scales.

Bill Barnett, Managing Director, C9 Hotelworks

To read the full report CLICK

Fantastic news from the Perspective Magazine Awards held last night at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills. The Beach Samui won two prestigious awards, Best Interior Design and Best Exterior Design . The Awards program is independently judged by both a panel of experts and our industry peers so it’s congratulations all round to our magnificent team who worked so hard to win these awards.