IHG & AWC Usher Luxury Resort Era in Chiang Rai

November 17, 2023

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AWC partners with IHG to develop their first two luxury hotels in Chiang Rai — (from left to right: Mr. Rungruang Wirojcheewan, Head of Hotel Operations, AWC, Mr. Matthew John Knights, Chief Hospitality Group Officer, AWC, Saowarin Chanprakaisi, Senior Director, Development, South East Asia and Korea, IHG, Patrick Both, Area General Manager Luxury & Lifestyle Thailand, IHG)

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC) announced a landmark expansion in Chiang Rai in an ambitious move set to redefine luxury travel in Northern Thailand. This development heralds the dawn of an era where opulence meets cultural immersion, with two stunning luxury destination resorts slated to open doors in 2025.

A New Chapter in Thai Tourism

The InterContinental Chiang Rai Golden Triangle Resort, a haven of sophistication, will offer 68 exclusive one- and two-bedroom pool villas. These plush accommodations promise privacy and luxury in equal measure. Meanwhile, the Kimpton Chiang Rai Golden Triangle, evolving from the current Imperial Golden Triangle Resort, will undergo a comprehensive transformation. This boutique will boast 68 suites, incorporating the unique Kimpton brand ethos of luxury and individuality.

The Golden Triangle: A Cultural and Natural Jewel

Nestled in Thailand’s Golden Triangle, these resorts will allow guests to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Lanna culture. The area, known for its historical significance and breathtaking landscapes bordering Laos and Myanmar, offers a mosaic of experiences for the discerning traveller.

Rajit Sukumaran, Managing Director of IHG Hotels & Resorts in South East Asia and Korea, emphasizes this venture as a testament to IHG’s commitment to expanding Thailand’s luxury and lifestyle portfolio by 50%. “This signing is more than an expansion; it’s a celebration of our decade-long relationship with AWC and our shared vision to elevate Northern Thailand’s hospitality landscape,” said Sukumaran.

A Vision of Eco-Luxury and Cultural Immersion

The CEO and President of AWC, Mrs. Wallapa Traisorat, elaborates on the project’s ethos. “Our vision is to transform Chiang Rai into a luxury ecotourism destination. These resorts will be more than just places to stay; they will be gateways to the natural beauty, cultural richness, and artistic vibrancy of the region,” she asserts.

Guests can expect various experiences, from riverfront dining and lifestyle cruises connecting Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar to immersive local explorations. These initiatives are not just about luxury; they are rooted in sustainable tourism practices that honor and showcase Lanna’s nature and heritage.

Strategic Location and Wellness Focus

An hour’s drive from Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai International Airport and nestled amidst mountain ranges, these resorts offer a serene escape. Overlooking the Mekong River, guests will enjoy panoramic views of Laos and Myanmar. The location is more than just scenic; it’s a launchpad for exploring coffee plantations hill tribes, and engaging in Lanna wellness experiences.

The focus on wellness extends to the culinary offerings, with sustainably sourced and organic options designed to nourish and energize. From scenic dining cruises to learning the art of batik and traditional craftsmanship, these experiences are curated to connect guests with the region’s essence.

A Booming Market for IHG

This venture is a strategic move in IHG’s expansion within Thailand, a market where the group already boasts 34 hotels across nine brands, with 39 more in the pipeline. This project is a step towards doubling IHG’s presence in the country over the next three to five years, signalling strong confidence in Thailand’s growing luxury tourism sector.

Conclusion

The partnership between IHG and AWC in Chiang Rai is more than just the opening of luxury resorts; it’s a cultural and environmental statement. It showcases a commitment to sustainable luxury, where the sumptuousness of the resorts is matched only by their respect for and integration with the local culture and environment.

These developments are set to place Chiang Rai on the global map as a destination that offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, culture, and eco-consciousness. They signal a new era for Thailand’s tourism industry, one where luxury is synonymous with sustainability and cultural respect. As these resorts open their doors in 2025, they will not only offer a new definition of luxury travel but will also pave the way for a more sustainable and culturally immersive tourism model in Thailand and beyond.