LUXE Travel Magazine - Adventures in Asia

LUXE TRAVEL

MAGAZINE

VOL. 35

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CONTENTS

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THE DANNA LANGKAWI RESORT & BEACH VILLAS

CASA BOHO

VICTORIA CAN THO RESORT INTERVIEW

VICTORIA CAN THO RESORT

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KAURI

VANA BELLE, A VANA BELLE, A LUXURY COLLECTION LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT, KOH SAMUI RESORT, KOH SAMUI INTERVIEW

IN THE NEXT EDITION...

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THE DANNA LANGKAWI RESORT & BEACH VILLAS MALAYSIA

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The award-winning Danna Langkawi Resort & Beach Villas perfectly encapsulates the scenic splendor of Langkawi, offering a warm island welcome and enchanting experiences at every turn. This luxury beachfront resort invites guests to explore its exclusive private pool villas and colonial-style oceanfront rooms and suites, each offering breathtaking views of tropical mountains, the ocean, marina, or courtyard.

Luxurious touches include bespoke bath amenities by Jo Loves, created by Jo Malone

CBE. Guests can savour intimate seaside dining, stay active at the Technogym fitness centre, or unwind with therapeutic treatments at The Spa, designed to restore balance to body, mind, and soul.

Located in Telaga Harbour Park, this Mediterranean-inspired resort is within easy reach of Langkawi’s top attractions and outdoor activities. The resort is approximately 15 minutes from Langkawi International Airport and 25 minutes from Pantai Cenang.

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Provided by The Danna Langkawi Resort & Beach Villas

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CASA BOHO THAILAND

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Perched on a hillside with breathtaking views of Kamala Bay, Casa Boho offers a unique bohemian atmosphere and has become a top dining destination in Phuket. Known for its bold flavors, laid-back bohemian ambiance, vibrant Latin beats, expertly crafted cocktails, and soulstirring sunsets, it provides an unforgettable experience.

The rooftop restaurant, featuring cozy seating and an inviting covered dining area, is perfect for those seeking a private and intimate setting.

Food lovers can embark on a culinary journey through an array of fresh, signature dishes. Casa Boho’s menu includes a variety of tapas, tacos, daily-made ceviche, and main courses inspired

by Latin American flavours, all complemented by artfully prepared desserts and drinks.

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Provided by Casa Boho

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VICTORIA CAN THO RESORT MS. VO XUAN THU GENERAL MANAGER In the heart of the Mekong Delta, Victoria Can Tho Resort stands as a harmonious blend of luxury and local heritage. At the helm of this beautiful property is Ms. Vo Xuan Thu, whose journey in hospitality has been both inspiring and transformative.

With a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences while embracing the cultural richness of the region, Ms. Vo Xuan Thu shares insights into her leadership, the resort’s sustainable initiatives, and what makes Victoria Can Tho Resort a standout destination for travelers seeking both authenticity and comfort.

Can you share your journey in the hospitality industry and what led you to where you are today?

My journey in the hospitality industry began quite unexpectedly. A friend who previously worked at the resort introduced me to the opportunity, and I started in an entry-level position.

Initially, I didn’t imagine I’d stay in the industry for long. However, after six months, my perspective shifted completely. I discovered a passion for hospitality, finding it both dynamic and rewarding. Since then, I’ve embraced every opportunity to learn and grow, progressing through different roles.

This experience has deepened my appreciation for the industry, and I’m excited to continue my journey here.

What drew you to Victoria Can Tho Resort, and how has your leadership style evolved since joining?

What initially drew me to Victoria Can Tho Resort was its unique brand and reputation as a standout property in the Mekong Delta. The resort’s beauty and serene environment made it an appealing place to work. Additionally, the strong sense of teamwork within our management team has been

incredibly rewarding. We’ve worked together for a long time, and the collaboration is built on mutual respect, where sharing knowledge and learning from one another is key. Each team member brings their own strengths, and my leadership style has evolved to focus on creating an open, supportive environment where we can all grow by sharing our expertise and learning from one another.

Victoria Can Tho Resort has a rich connection to the Mekong Delta’s cultural heritage. How does the resort uniquely blend local culture with luxury experiences for guests?

At Victoria Can Tho Resort, we take pride in offering guests an authentic connection to the Mekong Delta’s rich cultural heritage while ensuring a luxurious and comfortable experience. The resort is designed to reflect traditional architecture, blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings of the Delta. Our Spices Restaurant serves authentic Mekong Delta cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that celebrate the region’s culinary traditions.

We also offer cultural experiences,

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such as guided boat tours along the Mekong’s scenic waterways, visits to local floating markets, and traditional performances that allow guests to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of the region. This unique combination of local heritage with personalized service ensures that guests enjoy both the warmth and richness of the Mekong Delta, while still experiencing the highest standards of comfort and facility.

Sustainability is increasingly important in luxury travel. Can you share some of the eco-friendly initiatives implemented at Victoria Can Tho Resort?

At Victoria Can Tho Resort, sustainability is a top priority as we strive to protect the environment, promote local culture, and support our community.

Some of the key eco-friendly initiatives we’ve implemented include replacing plastic water bottles in guest rooms with glass ones, switching to paper straws for drinks, and using ecofriendly amenities throughout the resort. We also encourage energy-saving practices within our team and reward innovative solutions that contribute to sustainability. In 2023, alongside our sister hotels, we were proud to achieve the Travelife Gold certification, recognizing our ongoing commitment 14 l OCTOBER 2024 l Vol.35

to responsible hospitality.

What has been one of your proudest achievements at the resort, especially in delivering memorable guest experiences?

One of my proudest achievements at Victoria Can Tho Resort has been creating a strong, dedicated team that consistently delivers exceptional guest experiences. In addition to serving both domestic and international tourists, we are especially proud to be the first choice for diplomatic delegations visiting the city. This recognition reflects the consistency and quality of service that our team provides. Great service is never the result of one person’s effort; it takes a cohesive team working together. For me, building and leading such a team has been the most rewarding and successful aspect of my journey here.

The hospitality industry is constantly evolving.

How do you stay ahead of trends and continuously improve the guest experience at Victoria Can Tho Resort?

In today’s fast-evolving hospitality industry, staying ahead of trends means balancing technology with personalized service. Guests increasingly prefer

convenient, tech-driven methods for everything from booking to communication, but they still expect a personal touch. At Victoria Can Tho Resort, we continuously adapt to these trends by embracing digital solutions that enhance the guest experience at every touchpoint. For example, we’ve developed a guest portal that allows customers to easily access hotel information and make bookings with just a click. At the same time, we ensure that our team is always available to provide personalized assistance whenever guests need more information or special support. This combination of technology and human touch allows us to meet modern expectations while maintaining our high service standards.

As a leader in a luxury property within Vietnam, what advice would you give to young professionals aspiring to build a successful career in hospitality?

exceptional service. Additionally, no one is perfect, so always seek to learn from your colleagues and even your guests. Their insights can help you grow both professionally and personally, making your work more fulfilling and your life more rewarding.

As Ms. Vo Xuan Thu continues to lead Victoria Can Tho Resort with dedication and vision, her commitment to blending local culture with luxury remains a driving force behind the resort’s success.

Her leadership not only enhances the guest experience but also contributes to sustainable tourism in the Mekong Delta. Through her journey, Ms. Vo Xuan Thu serves as an inspiring figure for hospitality professionals and a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in this dynamic industry.

My advice to young professionals aspiring to build a successful career in hospitality is to work with responsibility, pay attention to details, and always be open to learning from others. When given a task, take full ownership and see it through with dedication. In the service industry, attention to detail is key—it’s what elevates good service to Vol. 35 l OCTOBER 2024 l 15

THE VIBRANT THE REGION 16 l OCTOBER 2024 l Vol.35

T CULTURE OF

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VICTORIA CAN THO RESORT VIETNAM The four-star Victoria Can Tho Resort offers a luxurious escape in the heart of the Mekong Delta, harmoniously blending Indochine architecture with stunning river views. Located in Can Tho City, this serene retreat rests along the banks of the Can Tho River, surrounded by lush, exotic gardens.

The resort features 92 elegantly designed rooms, including 8 Victoria suites, all showcasing wood flooring, authentic Vietnamese décor, and balconies with views of the river, pool, or garden. Each room seamlessly combines traditional artifacts with the modern amenities of an international-standard hotel.

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Provided by Victoria Can Tho Resort 20 l OCTOBER 2024 l Vol.35

Dining at Victoria Can Tho Resort offers a delightful culinary experience at Spices Restaurant and Cuu Long Bar, both offering indoor and outdoor seating amidst beautiful garden scenery. Guests can enjoy all-day dining that fuses European and Vietnamese cuisines, while the open-air bar serves a selection of cocktails and signature Vietnamese beverages.

For leisure and relaxation, the resort provides two outdoor swimming pools, a tennis court, fitness center, and a peaceful spa overlooking the garden and river.

Additional services, such as tailored sightseeing tours and a private jetty, ensure an unforgettable experience in the captivating Mekong Delta.

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KAURI SOUTH KOREA

Kauri derives its name from the stunning timber sushi counter, where guests can watch master sushi chefs skillfully craft each dish. This restaurant is dedicated to serving the finest sushi and sashimi, using only the freshest ingredients sourced daily to create an exceptional dining experience.

The name ‘Kauri’ comes from a native New Zealand tree, which has been transformed into the dramatic countertop of the sushi bar. This iconic feature not only defines the restaurant’s signature style but also contributes to its warm and inviting atmosphere.

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Provided by Kauri

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VANA BELLE, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT, KOH SAMUI THAILAND 26 l OCTOBER 2024 l Vol.35

Experience luxurious island living at Vana Belle, a Luxury Collection Resort, Koh Samui, where the mythical Himavanta forest theme seamlessly merges with the sparkling ocean. Guests are treated to exceptional service from dedicated staff, including butlers and Golden Key concierges from Les Clefs d’Or, ensuring a worldclass experience.

This beachfront resort offers a serene escape with 180 meters of pristine white sands on Chaweng Noi Beach, ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation. The 72 spacious pool suites and seven pool villas, each with a private terrace, provide breathtaking views of the ocean or lush rainforest. Conveniently located just minutes from Samui’s vibrant nightlife and 15 minutes from Samui International Airport, Vana Belle is the perfect retreat to recharge body, mind, and soul.

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Provided by Vana Belle, a Luxury Collection Resort, Koh Samui

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A HAVEN OF THAI HOSPITALITY AT VANA BELLE, KOH SAMUI FRANCOIS POLLETI General Manager

In this interview, we sit down with Francois Polleti, General Manager of Vana Belle, a Luxury Collection Resort, Koh Samui, to explore the resort’s distinctive blend of traditional Thai hospitality and world-class luxury. With its stunning beachfront location and commitment to creating personalized guest experiences, Vana Belle is celebrated as a sanctuary of tranquility and cultural richness.

Francois shares insights into the resort’s unique offerings, his journey in the hospitality industry, and the challenges of maintaining service excellence in a competitive market like Koh Samui.

Vana Belle is known for its secluded luxury and stunning beachfront location. How does the resort craft personalized experiences that align with this unique setting?

Vana Belle is a stunning luxury resort that harmonizes its secluded beach setting with an array of personalized experiences.

Understanding that every guest is unique, the resort begins by actively engaging with them to identify their preferences, often through pre-arrival surveys or personalized welcome consultations.

Once guests arrive, Vana Belle offers customized services that elevate their stay. Guests can enjoy bespoke dining experiences crafted by talented chefs, spa treatments tailored to individual needs, or private excursions that explore the serene beauty of the surrounding area.

The breathtaking beachfront location allows for distinctive activities that can be personalized, such as private romantic sunset dinners on the beach, guided

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paddle boarding, or personalized yoga sessions with ocean views.

Vana Belle also embraces local culture, offering cooking classes that feature the region’s cuisine and organizing visits to nearby cultural sites, giving guests a deeper connection to the area.

Attention to detail further enhances the personalized experience—staff members go beyond expectations, recalling returning guests’ preferences and ensuring that special occasions are acknowledged with thoughtful surprises. By actively seeking feedback and adapting to guests’ evolving desires, Vana Belle continually refines its offerings to create unforgettable experiences, ensuring that each guest feels unique and valued during their stay.

In essence, Vana Belle creates a sanctuary of luxury where personalized experiences resonate deeply with its stunning surroundings, allowing guests to relax, rejuvenate, and create lasting memories.

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In what ways does Vana Belle integrate traditional Thai hospitality and culture into the guest experience while maintaining world-class luxury standards?

Vana Belle masterfully integrates traditional Thai hospitality and culture into the guest experience while upholding world-class luxury standards. The essence of Thai hospitality, characterized by warmth, generosity, and an all-encompassing sense of care, is woven into every aspect of the resort’s service.

Staff members are trained to embody the Thai principle of “Kwam Suk,” or happiness, ensuring that they anticipate and cater to guests’ needs with genuine attentiveness and respect. This personalized service creates an atmosphere of comfort and belonging, which is a hallmark of traditional Thai culture.

Culturally immersive experiences are abundant at Vana Belle, ranging from traditional Thai cooking classes to local excursions that connect guests with the region’s rich heritage.

These activities not only enhance the guest experience but also honor the local culture, allowing visitors to engage meaningfully with their surroundings.

The resort’s design reflects traditional Thai aesthetics, with architecture and interior décor utilizing natural materials and local craftsmanship. The result is a luxurious yet culturally immersive environment that resonates with the beauty of Thai heritage.

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flavors and recipes. Guests can indulge in both traditional Thai cuisine and innovative fusion dishes, elevating their dining experience to new heights.

The wellness offerings at Vana Belle also draw from traditional Thai practices, with spa treatments that include Thai massage and herbal therapies.

Set within a tranquil environment, these services provide an exceptional blend of relaxation and cultural authenticity.

Additionally, the resort celebrates local festivals and ceremonies, allowing guests to experience the vibrancy and richness of Thai culture firsthand. These events create memorable moments and deepen guests’ connections to the locale.

In conclusion, Vana Belle successfully harmonizes the warmth of traditional Thai hospitality with the elegance of world-class luxury, ensuring that guests enjoy not just exceptional service and amenities but also an enriching connection to the vibrant culture and traditions of Thailand.

What did your journey in the hospitality industry look like and what inspired you to take on the role at Vana Belle?

My journey in the hospitality industry began at an early age, sparked by my family’s love for travel and the experiences we shared at various hotels around the world. I was captivated by the way hospitality could turn a simple stay into a memorable experience. This passion led me to pursue a degree in hospitality management, where I gained a solid foundation in the principles of service, culture, and management. I’ve had the privilege of working in various roles throughout my career.

I started in entry-level positions over 20 years ago, where I learned the fundamentals of hotel operations and guest services. Each position taught me the importance of attention to detail, personalized service, and the ability to adapt to guests’ unique needs. Along the way, I’ve had the opportunity to work at some wonderful luxury hotels and resorts in the United States, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and North Africa, learning from many talented professionals and enriching myself with diverse cultures.

What inspired me to take on the role at Vana Belle was its remarkable reputation for integrating traditional Thai hospitality with world-class luxury.

The resort’s commitment to personalized guest experiences, combined with its stunning beachfront location, resonated deeply with my own values of excellence and authenticity in service. I admire Vana Belle’s dedication to sustainability and its efforts to celebrate the local culture, which I believe are essential in today’s hospitality landscape.

As General Manager at Vana Belle, I aim to leverage my skills to enhance our guests’ experiences, fostering a culture of warmth and attentiveness among my team. I am excited to contribute to innovative service offerings that highlight the beauty and richness of Thai culture while maintaining the highest standards of luxury. This role allows me to bring my experiences full circle and create memorable moments for our guests while honoring the traditions that make Thailand so special.

What challenges have you faced while leading the resort, especially in maintaining

service excellence in a highly competitive market like Koh Samui?

In leading Vana Belle, one of the significant challenges I’ve faced is navigating the highly competitive market in Koh Samui, where there are numerous luxury resorts vying for the attention of discerning travelers. The expectations for service excellence are exceedingly high, making it imperative for us to differentiate ourselves.

Specific challenges include staffing and training, where finding and retaining skilled employees who embody the spirit of Thai hospitality can be daunting. Additionally, ensuring consistency in service across various departments is another challenge, as every guest should receive the same exceptional experience regardless of where they are within the resort.

To address these challenges, I have implemented several strategic solutions. We’ve developed comprehensive training programs that focus on both technical skills and soft skills, fostering a culture of excellence and empowering our staff to provide the best possible service. Establishing a robust guest feedback mechanism has also been essential; we actively analyze feedback to continuously refine our operations and enhance guest satisfaction. Vana Belle has earned the number one ranking on TripAdvisor, not only for Samui destinations but also for Thailand.

Moreover, we emphasize personalization, creating tailormade experiences that resonate with each guest’s unique needs.

This approach not only sets us apart but also cultivates loyalty among our guests.

Despite these challenges, our

commitment to maintaining high service standards remains unwavering. We regularly evaluate our performance and recognize outstanding staff contributions, fostering a supportive team environment that prioritizes guest satisfaction.

Looking ahead, I believe that adaptability is crucial in overcoming these challenges. We are continuously vigilant about market trends and are dedicated to evolving our services to ensure that Vana Belle remains a premier destination for luxury hospitality in Koh Samui. Our focus on innovation and excellence will not only help us navigate challenges but will also allow us to enhance the magical experiences we provide to our guests.

What are some of your favorite aspects of Koh Samui that you think every guest should experience during their stay at Vana Belle?

Koh Samui is a treasure trove of experiences that truly embody the charm of Thailand, and there are several aspects that I think every guest should experience during their stay at Vana Belle.

First and foremost, the stunning beaches of Koh Samui are not to be missed. The soft white sands and crystal-clear waters of beaches like Chaweng and the more tranquil areas near our resort provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation, whether it’s soaking up the sun or enjoying water sports.

I also believe it’s essential for guests to explore the island’s rich culture. Visiting the Big Buddha Temple and Wat Plai Laem offers wonderful insights into Thai spirituality, and the stunning architecture is simply breathtaking. The serenity of these locations encourages reflection and appreciation of the

local traditions.

For those seeking adventure, Koh Samui is a gateway to incredible water activities. Snorkeling and diving trips to nearby Ang Thong National Marine Park are a must, where guests can discover vibrant marine life and stunning limestone islands. It’s an experience that truly connects you with the natural beauty of the region.

Culinary experiences are another highlight of Koh Samui. The local food is delicious, and I recommend that guests try authentic Thai street food at the night markets or indulge in fine dining at local restaurants. The vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine are sure to delight.

Lastly, Koh Samui is renowned for its wellness offerings. From rejuvenating spa treatments to yoga sessions on the beach, guests have various opportunities to unwind and refresh their minds and bodies in a beautiful setting.

One of my favorite memories involves a sunset Muay Thai session on the beach. The combination of the sound of the waves, a gentle breeze, and the stunning colors of the sunset created a truly magical experience that I believe everyone should experience.

In summary, Koh Samui offers a rich tapestry of experiences, and I wholeheartedly encourage our guests at Vana Belle to explore the island’s beaches, culture, cuisine, and wellness opportunities. Each moment spent here can create lasting memories and deepen their connection to this beautiful paradise.

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IN THE NEXT

EDITION...

MIDDLE EASTERN ELEGANCE AND LUXURY

U

nveil the pinnacle of Middle Eastern luxury in our November issue, where we showcase the region’s finest restaurants and resorts. From the serene shores of Sealine Beach to the vibrant heart of Dubai, prepare to be captivated by an extraordinary blend of elegance and indulgence.

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