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Torsten Richter is new general manager at Anantara Siam Bangkok

Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel just announced the appointment of Torsten Richter as its new general manager. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades in luxury hospitality, he brings a wealth of international experience, strategic leadership, and a deep commitment to service excellence to his new role. Richter joins Anantara Siam Bangkok from his most recent position as Minor Hotels' area general manager for Malaysia & Indonesia, and general manager of Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas. His extensive background includes leadership roles at some of the world's most prestigious hotel brands across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Likewise, Richter’s expertise in guest experience, operational efficiency, and brand positioning makes him an ideal leader to steer Anantara Siam Bangkok into a new era of success. Minor Hotels’ vice-president for F&B and operations in Asia Mark O'Sullivan said of the new general manager: “Torsten's appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Anantara Siam Bangkok. His deep operational expertise, strategic mindset, and passion for excellence make him the perfect fit to lead one of our flagship properties. We are confident that under his leadership, the hotel will continue to set new benchmarks in luxury hospitality and guest experience.” Meet Torsten Richter A native of Germany, Torsten began his hospitality career in 1989 with an apprenticeship as a hotel and food and beverage expert at Schlosshotel Bühlerhöhe, one of the leading hotels in the world. After earning a Diploma in Hotel Management, he gained valuable experience at renowned properties, including The MARK Hotel in New York, where he held positions as Maitre d'Hotel and Restaurant Manager. He later joined Starwood's Leaders Development GM Fast Track programme, which led to his first general manager post at Le Méridien Khao Lak Beach & Spa Resort in Thailand in 2008. Since then, Richter has held general manager positions at several prestigious hotels, including The Sarasvati, a Luxury Collection Resort in Bali; The Ritz-Carlton in Berlin; The JAFFA, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Tel Aviv; and SO/Bangkok. Commenting on his appointment, he stated: “It is an honour to lead Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, an iconic property that exemplifies the perfect blend of Thai tradition and modern luxury. I look forward to working with the talented team to elevate our offerings and create exceptional experiences for our guests.”

New senior leadership appointments announced for Anantara properties in Thailand

Minor Hotels just announced two senior leadership appointments for its Anantara resorts in Chiang Mai and the Golden Triangle. Arnaud Béril, general manager of Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, expands his managerial reach to include Anantara Chiang Mai Resort as cluster general manager of both resorts. On the other hand, Avani+ Khao Lak resort manager Jean-Marc Pougnet will be heading north to take on the role of general manager at Anantara Golden Triangle. Minor Hotels’ vice-president for operations in Asia Nicholas Smith said of these latest appointments: “People are at the heart of everything we do at Minor Hotels. Arnaud and Jean-Marc have demonstrated outstanding dedication to delivering what matters most to our guests, and their career progressions underscore Minor Hotels’ commitment to providing meaningful growth opportunities across the organisation. We look forward to seeing the impact they will continue to make as they lead our northern Thailand resorts into an exciting new chapter.” Béril: from intern to executive Béril’s appointment brings him back to Anantara Chiang Mai, where he was previously food and beverage manager in 2015. In his new capacity, he will oversee both northern Thailand Anantara properties. A native of France, Béril joined Minor Hotels as an intern in 2010, rising through the ranks to hold several senior operations roles across the group’s properties across Thailand, including Koh Phangan, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Hua Hin, Koh Samui and Chiang Rai. In 2022, he moved to Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort as resort manager and rose to the position of general manager in 2023. During his tenure at Anantara Golden Triangle, he took the lead on several initiatives meant to boost the resort experience, including the introduction of Canopy, A Tree Top Dining Experience; the launch of the Samsarn restaurant honouring Thai, Lao, and Burmese culinary heritage; and the newly-launched Mekong Explorer Tents. His elevation of the Anantara Golden Triangle guest experience earned him recognition as General Manager of the Year – Asia in 2024 at the Minor Awards of Excellence. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the Institut Vatel Bordeaux Hospitality Management School. Pougnet: back to where it all began This latest appointment as general manager of the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort marks Pougnet’s return to his first property with Minor Hotels, quite a milestone for someone stepping into the general manager’s role for the very first time. After moving to Chiang Rai, Thailand in 2013, he joined Anantara Golden Triangle in 2018 as food and beverage manager, and was later promoted to food and beverage director. He moved to Avani+ Khao Lak Resort in 2021 to set up its F&B department, and has, for the past two years, served as its resort manager. At his Avani+ posting, Pougnet led a team of over 300 team members at the 327-key property. With over a decade of experience in various senior food and beverage and operational roles across Africa, Asia, and Europe, Pougnet has a firm grasp of operational excellence and creating innovative guest experiences. Originally from Mauritius, he holds multiple degrees in International Hotel and Tourism Management from Ulster University in Northern Ireland and HTMi Hotel and Tourism Management Institute Switzerland.

Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas named One of TIME’s World’s Greatest Places of 2025

Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas, a luxury island hideaway in Southern Thailand’s Phang Nga Bay, has been named one of the world’s 100 most exciting destinations to visit right now by TIME. The annual list, unveiled in this month’s issue, is made of up one-of-a-kind spots and experiences as nominated by TIME’s network of correspondents and contributors around the world. The 2025 issue comprises a highly curated collection of hotels, cruises, restaurants, attractions, museums, parks and more. Only 54 places to stay made the list, with Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas being the only resort in Thailand, and one of only nine in Asia. Opening its doors just over a year ago, Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas is a world its own, sprawling over 27 acres of land that stretches from lush mountain peaks to pristine coastline. Here, tranquility pervades, and yet it is only 35 minutes by speedboat from bustling Phuket and 20 minutes from Krabi. The resort boasts 148 suites, villas and penthouses, including beachfront pool villas with villa host service, and wellness lagoon villas with a dedicated exercise, meditation or treatment room. Appealing to TIME the most is the resort’s ability to balance being truly family friendly while still catering to luxury travellers. Families enjoy suites with bunk beds and play areas, a dedicated waterpark, the largest kids’ club in the region, and child-friendly dining options. Young guests are catered to just as much if not more than adults, with the attentive and intuitive service for which Anantara is known. There are also plenty of activities for families to enjoy on the island, with sidecar rides through lush plantations to quaint fishing villages, visits to Laem Haad Beach, voted as one of the top in the world, getting up close with Thailand’s famous water buffalo, and flying yoga. Best of all is the My SKY experience, with a day aboard a sleek 55-foot private yacht visiting the icons of Phang Nga Bay, including Hong Island, only 20 minutes away, with its hidden treasures, crystal-clear lagoons and panoramic viewpoints. "We are honoured to receive this prestigious recognition from TIME, a testament to our iconic location, high standards of service and commitment to sustainable luxury travel," says Puneet Dhawan, Head of Asia at Minor Hotels. "We look forward to welcoming even more guests, showing them the beauty of our island and the region in the coming seasons."

Anantara Thousand Island Lake Resort to open with 160 keys in Oct 2027 in Hangzhou City, China

Anantara Thousand Island Lake Resort (Rendering) Minor Hotels and its Chinese joint venture, Funyard Minor, have partnered with YouChao International Tourism Hotel Co. Ltd. to develop Anantara Thousand Island Lake Resort. Scheduled to open on the banks of Qiandao Lake in Hangzhou City in October 2027, the 160-key resort is poised to bring a fresh perspective to the popular holiday destination in Zhejiang Province. Spanning a total construction area of 36,000 square metres, Anantara Thousand Island Lake Resort will honour Qiandao’s fame as the world’s most island-rich freshwater lake. Holidaymakers familiar with the area’s charm as well as new generations of vacationers will be immersed in the tranquil beauty of the reservoir and the lush surrounding forest. On their doorstep, they will find abundant natural and cultural attractions, such as the rich culture of Xin’An, once a major trade centre on the Silk Road, picturesque mountain villages and fishing adventures at Longchuanwan National Fishing Centre. The property is designed to accommodate a wide range of guests, from solo travellers seeking solitude to families looking for in-nature activities to business travellers with the resort's multifunctional banquet and meeting space. In addition to guest rooms ranging in size from 62 to 340 square meters, dining outlets at Anantara Thousand Island Lake Resort will include all-day dining, specialty and Chinese restaurants. The hotel will offer a variety of recreational facilities to enhance the guest experience including a fitness centre, swimming pool, spa, tennis court, tea garden, and a forest oxygen bar. "We are honoured to collaborate with YouChao International Tourism Hotel Co. Ltd. to bring Anantara to Qiandao Lake," said Mr. Eddy Tiftik, Vice President of Development for Greater China at Minor Hotels Group and a board member of Funyard Minor China. "This cooperation marks another significant milestone in our expansion in the Yangtze Delta Region, while also showcasing our deep commitment and confidence in the Chinese market. We look forward to this project bringing positive economic impact to the local community and promoting the sustained development of the tourism industry." "We are delighted to join hands with Minor Hotels," said Tang Wenyi, Chairman of YouChao International Tourism Hotel Co. Ltd. "We look forward to working closely with Minor Hotels to promote the development of the hotel industry in the area, create more commercial and social value, and leverage Qiandao Lake’s immense potential as a world-class tourism destination." Anantara Thousand Island Lake Resort is located 22 kilometres from Qiandaohu Railway Station that links it to tier one cities such as Hangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing and Nanjing, and 150 kilometres from Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport. Minor Hotels currently operates four properties in China and plans to grow to 15 properties within the next three years.

Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas draws in Ironman runners and fitness fans

With Ironman 70.3 Desaru Coast coming up in May, Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas has introduced its Ironman 70.3 Desaru Coast Package. Designed with fitness enthusiasts and Ironman competitors in mind, the package blends wellness, adventure, and indulgence, ensuring guests start the New Year revitalized and ready to conquer their 2025 fitness goals. That said, it provides a seamless blend of performance-enhancing amenities and opportunities for relaxation in a venue that prioritises health and fitness without skimping on luxurious indulgence. What’s in it for guests? Highlights of the Ironman 70.3 Desaru Coast Package include: Luxury Accommodations: Guests can relax in elegant accommodations designed to offer ultimate comfort after a day of training or exploration. Daily Superfood Breakfast : Start each morning with a nutrient-packed breakfast featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Afternoon Stretching and Yoga Sessions : Enhance recovery and flexibility with guided yoga sessions tailored for active individuals. Technical Assistance for Bicycle Repairs: Cyclists can access chargeable technical support upon request, ensuring their gear is always in top condition. 15 Percent Savings on Spa Treatments: Rejuvenate with bespoke therapies at the Anantara Spa, excluding promotions and retail products. 15 Percent Savings on Dining: Enjoy discounted dining experiences, excluding in-room dining, non-alcoholic beverages, promotions, and seasonal items. Roundtrip Transfers: Convenient transportation between Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal and the resort allows guests to focus on their wellness journey. Late Check-Out: Take advantage of a 2:00 pm late check-out (subject to availability) for a stress-free departure. Aside from these benefits, guests alsol have access to the resort’s state-of-the-art fitness center, scenic cycling routes, and a variety of wellness activities designed to align with their training and recovery needs. Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas emphasises the importance of balancing wellness and indulgence, particularly for travelers seeking a rejuvenating escape. Thus, the Ironman 70.3 Desaru Coast Package seeks to support guests in achieving their health goals while enjoying the signature luxury experiences that define the Anantara brand.

Anantara Desaru Coast Residences plays host to the House of Robb

Luxury real estate firm Minor Residences recently teamed up with Robb Report Malaysia for an exclusive event titled House of Robb last 8th November at the Anantara Desaru Coast Residences. The event welcomed guests from AHAM Capital’s Future Leaders Programme, giving them exclusive access to the resort’s most exquisite residence. The House of Robb was hosted by Minor Lifestyle and Real Estate chief operating officer Micah Tamthai, together with Robb Report Malaysia editorial director Kenneth Tan. Also in attendance were a number of esteemed partners. Exquisite indulgences After toasting with celebrity-backed Champagne Telmont, guests were free to exploreDolce & Gabbana’s Alta Sartoria creations, showcasing high-level handiwork, intricate details and luxurious fabrics. They were also the first in Malaysia to view Dolce & Gabbana’s Alta Gioielleria, a high jewellery line celebrating art, beauty and Italy’s renowned jewellery-making traditions. Additionally, innovative high-technology professional speakers from Italy’s K-array and the iconic 1965-designed Brionvega Radiofonografo turntable speakers were on display. When it came to entertainment, hosts regaled their guests with a live performance from a duo of musicians. Guests were also invited to indulge in Thai inspired canapés by Anantara Desaru Coast’s culinary team, the legendary Louis XIII by Rémy Martin cognac, an assortment of Cuban cigars, by Cigar Kingdom, as well as Bruichladdich Single Malt Scotch from Islay. The epitome of island elegance Attendees enjoyed an elegant evening of fine gastronomy and Italian craftsmanship, surrounded by the opulence of the 13,000-sq ft duplex villa. Indeed, the venue was a luxurious showcase: a well-appointed four-bedroom residence equipped with its own private infinity pool, sundeck, as well as direct access to the ocean. Typical of all the villas at Anantara Desaru Coast Residences, this showplace offers a curated blend of luxury beachfront living and family-friendly leisure. Owners and residents of the three- and four-bedroom pool villas enjoy access to a wealth of attractions in Desaru Coast and five-star facilities at Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas resort, with prices starting from 9,2 million MYR.

Minor Residences’ Kiara Reserve and Anantara Ubud Bali Residences receive PropertyGuru awards

Minor International's luxury real estate firm Minor Residences announced that two of its premier properties in Asia were recognised at the PropertyGuru Awards in Thailand and Indonesia. Kiara Reserve was hailed as the Best Ultra Luxury Residential Development (Phuket) at the PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards 2024, while Anantara Ubud Bali Residences won the prestigious Best of Indonesia Award for Best Housing Development (Indonesia) and Best Luxury Housing Development (Bali) at the PropertyGuru Indonesia Property Awards 2024. Minor International’s chief operating officer for lifestyle and real estate Micah Tamthai said of the double win: “We are thrilled to have two of our projects recognised by PropertyGuru, the region’s biggest and most respected real estate awards programme. These prestigious accolades highlight our commitment and contributions as a leading developer of luxury and ultra-luxury real estate in the world’s most dynamic markets.” Initially launched 2005, PropertyGuru Group’s real estate awards programme celebrates the finest in Asian real estate. Winners across various categories are selected through a rigorous evaluation process, incorporating insights from industry experts and consumer feedback. Two exceptional properties Kiara Reserve, developed in partnership with Kajima, is an exclusive enclave located on prime beachfront land in Phuket’s ‘Millionaires Mile’. Nestled in nature, the development features breathtaking canopied landscapes overlooking the pearl-sand beaches of Layan Bay. Kiara Reserve’s 17 three- and four-bedroom villas and 29 three- and four-bedroom condominiums blend open-air living and well-crafted interiors with state-of-the-art technology. Inspired by Bali’s rich artisanal heritage, Anantara Ubud Bali Residences, developed in collaboration with PT Wijaya Karya Realty, offers 15 stunning one- and two-bedroom villas perched on the edge of a lush river valley. Each villa boasts a private infinity pool with breathtaking views of the vibrant tropical forest. Perfectly situated near Ubud’s cultural and natural wonders, owners and residents enjoy exclusive access to Anantara’s world-class service and facilities, creating an unparalleled luxury living experience.

Anantara Golden Triangle casts spotlight on conservation for World Elephant Day

Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort teamed up with the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation (GTAEF) to boost awareness on nature conservation as it celebrated World Elephant Day. Held on 12th and 13th August, the event sought to inform the public about the critical role elephants play in ecosystems. By doing so, participating organisations encouraged people to support ongoing elephant conservation projects. This year’s festivities included cultural ceremonies reflecting the spirit of Thailand, a craft market, a fruit feast for elephants, and educational activities for students from Chiang Rai and other guests. Anantara Golden Triangle general manager Arnaud Béril said of the event: "This year’s World Elephant Day event was a heartfelt gesture from our community to the elephants. We aimed to make an impact by planting seeds of awareness among students and guests about the importance of elephants and conservation.” An interactive learning experience The first day of the event featured an interactive learning session for students led by a resident veterinarian whose lecture focused on elephant anatomy and behaviour. The session included target training, a method of training elephants that aligns with elephants' natural behaviours and eliminates the use of harmful tools. This was followed by seed planting activities designed to cultivate awareness of the importance of elephants and nature. The event also featured a craft market showcasing handcrafted art and products from local artisans, with this year’s highlight being live painting performances by local artists. The day concluded with a grand buffet of favourite fruits and vegetables for the elephants. Elephant blessing The second day began with a sacred elephant blessing ceremony, known as the Pakham performed by the Khru Ba Yai or Elephant Spirit Men from Surin. The celebration concluded with a hosted lunch and a learning session with students from The School of the Blind in Mae Sai. GTAEF group director for sustainability and conservation John Roberts said of the event: "In celebrating World Elephant Day we aim to share knowledge and highlight the importance of elephants, demonstrating their way of life to enhance awareness and foster an understanding of their crucial role in the conservation of ecosystems where they live in the wild as well as celebrating their cultural importance to Thailand."

Enjoy the festivities along Desaru Coast with a cultural and culinary extravaganza at Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas

Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas announces the revival of Ombak Festival, a family-friendly coastal celebration of the good times set to unfold across multiple Desaru Coast venues on 13-15 September 2024. As one of the official accommodation partners, the award-winning resort will offer exclusive stay packages and host a series of captivating dining and cultural events during the festival. Festival goers of all ages can look forward to an exhilarating celebration featuring over 100 events, including music performances, visual arts and crafts, delectable food and beverages and family-friendly fun. International headliners such as Grace Jones, Macy Gray and The Cardigans will grace the stage alongside 23 local and regional music stars, including Bunga, Masdo, Aisyah Aziz and Thee Marloes. The festival also boasts Michelin-starred chefs, award-winning restaurants, a beachfront art trail and curated boutiques showcasing celebrated Southeast Asian designers. Not to be missed either is the Ombak Kids festival, a delightful fringe event tailored for younger festival-goers. Anantara Desaru Coast, conveniently located within walking distance of the festival sites, will play host to an array of exciting culinary and cultural events, including “Flavours of Borneo” at the chic Infinity Bar in collaboration with local purveyors of fine foods and drinks – Reka Bar, Vér, and Chocha Foodstore. The event will take place on 14-15 September from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm, with a la carte dishes priced from RM 20 to RM 65.

Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas appoints Jaffery Othman as New Executive Chef

Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, the acclaimed fine dining destination, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Jaffery Othman as the new Executive Chef. In his new role, Chef Othman will oversee the culinary strategy and operations across the resort’s six restaurants and bars, in-villa dining and catering services. Jaffery Othman brings a wealth of experience from both Malaysia and the United Kingdom. Most recently, he served as the Executive Chef at Crowne Plaza Stratford Upon Avon, with an impressive UK roster extending to such luxury properties and fine dining restaurants as the iconic InterContinental Edinburgh the George and Marco Pierre White’s River Room restaurant at The Lowry Hotel in Manchester. Meanwhile, over the years his many Malaysian stints ranged from leading the teams at The Westin Desaru Coast Resort and Hilton Kota Kinabalu to contributing his talents at Batang Ai Longhouse Hilton Resort and Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel, among others. Chef Othman’s extensive training in French cuisine and collaborations with top UK chefs like Marco Pierre White, Raymond Blanc and John Benson-Smith have shaped his skills and personal style, while his experience cooking for Queen Elizabeth II and the Malaysian Royal families infuses every dish he creates with a subtle royal touch. “I am thrilled to be back in Malaysia, a country I feel a strong connection with,” said Chef Othman about his appointment. “I look forward to combining my culinary skills with Anantara’s renowned Thai hospitality to create unforgettable experiences for our guests.” Chef Othman’s passion for travel has taken him to remarkable destinations across Southeast Asia, Europe and the US. His multilingual abilities and love for playing the guitar add to his vibrant personality. He holds a BA (Hons) in Hospitality Management with Tourism from Manchester Metropolitan University in England and a Brevet De Technicien Hôtellerie (B.T.H.) from Institut International D’Hôtellerie et De Tourisme De Toulouse Midi Pyrénées, France.