Post an outstanding Q1 2024, our expectations are for sustained momentum: Khamthong

A boutique resort, with its own farm and located in an oasis of green, Pai Village promises an unforgettable experience, surrounded by beautiful mountains, river valleys and scenic rice barn fields. Phouwanart “Num” Khamthong, Resort Manager, Pai Village shares with  Brand TD all about the resort and more.

Brand TD:  Kindly tell us more about the resort Pai Village and why it is the perfect destination?

Phouwanart “Num” Khamthong (PNK): Pai Village is truly unique as whether guests opt for one of our modern Thai Lanna Heritage rooms or our traditional Pai Hill Tribe Bungalows, all are assured their accommodations in our resort are meticulously crafted to deliver boutique levels of comfort and design, enriching any stay in Pai. Whether one would choose to unwind in a hammock on their terrace or indulge in our outdoor daybeds, comfort is guaranteed. We even have a heated pool for year-round enjoyment!  Additionally, guests enjoy complimentary access to our local farm, where they can soak in the beauty of a picturesque sunset, tranquil streams, flower-lined pathways, and a vibrant pond teeming with colourful Koi fish and Thai carp. And as every great hotel deserves a great kitchen, we take pride in hosting one of Pai’s most renowned restaurants, The Blue Ox, where daily entertainment and excellent cuisine are harmonized by our Chef, recently featured on Iron Chef Thailand. Pai Village promises an unforgettable experience. And last but not least, we also operate an outstanding Mediterranean restaurant just steps away, Limoncello!

Brand TD: What makes your resort distinctive, how does it offer the home-away-from-home experience? What can guests indulge in while spending time there?

PNK: Nestled just moments from walking street, our acclaimed eco-resort offers the perfect blend of convenience and charm. Take a leisurely evening stroll, peruse the shops along the way, and immerse yourself in Pai’s vibrant nightlife, all just steps from our doorstep. Upon your return, anticipate an intimate and personalized experience where you are more than just a guest—you are family. At our resort, we pride ourselves on creating a home away from home atmosphere, where every staff member knows your name and is dedicated to ensuring your comfort and happiness. Your every need is our priority, as we strive to provide you with a truly relaxing holiday and genuine joy throughout your stay.

Brand TD:  Which is the peak season for the resort? What remain your main source markets? What has the occupancy been like in the first two months of 2024? What RevPAR and ARRs are you expecting in the coming months 2024?

PNK: The peak season for northern Thailand typically spans from mid-October to February, attracting a significant influx of visitors from around the world. During this time, the primary market revolves around online travel agencies (OTAs) and direct business, driving robust business performance. We have experienced an outstanding Q1 and our expectations are for sustained momentum throughout 2024 and beyond.

Brand TD: What are you doing to further develop your relationship with travel partners?

PNK: The product and the experience that we offer to our guests is an incentive in itself.  Our confidence in our location, product, and guest experience remains steadfast and should we need, we adapt swiftly to evolving circumstances.

Brand TD:  What are the main challenges that hospitality is facing in your region and what is the way forward? What is being done to promote the region beyond the beaches of Thailand.

PNK: In all honesty, our primary challenge lies in managing the remarkable demand that Thailand is currently experiencing and related to that in recruiting and training manpower to meet these needs. Fortunately, being part of a larger group like Rasa Hospitality helps mitigate this challenge to a significant extent.

Brand TD:  Can you share with us what is the best part about being a hotelier and one memory of your tenure as GM at the Pai Village that stands apart?

PNK: The best part of being part of the amazing team at Pai Village is to create memorable experiences for guests while developing our team further.