Kerzner International Holdings has announced plans to develop Vana Som Botanical Resort, a new addition to its rare finds collection in Mae Rim, Chiang Mai, marking the hospitality group's first property in Thailand and the brand's debut in Asia.
Scheduled to open in 2029, the resort will be set within the
botanical landscapes and mountainous surroundings of Northern Thailand. The
development will draw inspiration from the heritage of a private family estate,
combining traditional Northern Thai architecture, Lanna culture and
contemporary luxury hospitality.
The project represents an important step in the
international expansion of rare finds, Kerzner's collection of distinctive
destinations characterised by their individual identities and connections to
local culture and surroundings.
“The introduction of rare finds to Asia is an important
milestone in the brand’s international expansion and reflects the significant
opportunities we see for its continued growth,” says Juan Aguilar, President of
Real Estate, Kerzner International. “Vana Som is a natural addition to the
collection. Its heritage as a family estate, strong cultural identity and
connection to the traditions of Northern Thailand are exactly the qualities we
look for in a rare finds destination. Together with our partners, we have an
opportunity to build on this remarkable foundation, creating a destination that
brings together luxury hospitality, private residences and exceptional cultural
experiences. By combining the individuality of the property with Kerzner’s
global reach, commercial strength and operational expertise, we can create
long-term value for our partners while introducing rare finds to new audiences.
We see considerable potential to grow the brand in Asia and beyond, and Vana
Som is an important step in that journey.”
The resort is expected to feature 60 guest rooms alongside
branded residences comprising two- to five-bedroom villas. Its facilities and
experiences will include multiple dining concepts, showcasing traditional Thai
cuisine alongside regional and international gastronomy.
Additional offerings will include dedicated wellness
facilities, a museum-grade gallery and an opera venue, creating a destination
that combines hospitality, cultural experiences and private living.
Aarya Surindhara, Founder & Visionary of Vana Som, says:
“Northern Thailand possesses an extraordinary abundance of culinary heritage,
varied microclimates, and breathtaking landscapes that the world has only begun
to discover,” says Aarya Surindhara, Founder & Visionary, Vana Som.
“Partnering with Kerzner International, whose global reputation for creating
extraordinary destinations is unmatched, allows us to showcase this magnificent
regional richness on the world stage, creating an unprecedented haven of hospitality,
gastronomy, classical arts, and holistic well-being.”
Through Vana Som Botanical Resort, Kerzner aims to introduce
international travellers to Northern Thailand's cultural and natural
attractions while expanding rare finds into new markets.
The project will further strengthen Kerzner's global portfolio, combining the group's hospitality and operational expertise with a destination rooted in local heritage and regional identity. -TTN