Nestled in the foothills of Mount Emei (also known as Emeishan), the resort serves as a gateway to the Mount Emei Scenic Area, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site inscribed for both its cultural and natural significance and known for its rich biodiversity.

A Mountainside Sanctuary Embraced by Nature

Inspired by the traditional courtyard homes of western Sichuan, the resort reinterprets the region’s architecture in a contemporary form that follows the natural contours of a forested valley. Its design, landscaping and guest experiences draw on the surrounding environment and local culture.

During development, seven century-old camphor trees, along with all existing trees with a trunk diameter greater than 10 centimetres, were retained in their original locations. Pathways through the bamboo forest follow the natural terrain, allowing bamboo to grow through and alongside the walkways while preserving the site’s character.

The guest arrival, framed by mature camphor trees, leads to an open-air courtyard inspired by the traditional Chinese architectural principle of “four waters returning to the hall” (si shui gui tang), in which pitched roofs channel rainwater into a central courtyard. Throughout the resort, filtered light, mountain air, the sound of water and views across bamboo groves and forested slopes create a quiet dialogue between architecture and nature.

The resort comprises 130 rooms and villas across six categories, each with a private outdoor hot-spring pool.

Getting there 

Banyan Tree Mount Emei is a five-minute commute from Emeishan High-Speed Railway Station and around two minutes from the entrance to the Mount Emei Scenic Area. 

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is approximately two hours away by car, while Chengdu Tianfu International Airport is around two hours and 15 minutes away. Leshan Airport, which is expected to begin operations later in 2026, will be approximately 40 minutes from the resort by car.

(Source: Banyan Group)

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This extensive transformation will take Club Med Cherating into a new era of all-inclusive hospitality, anchoring it as a resort sanctuary deeply integrated into the lush, tropical surrounds. The date of completion has yet to be announced.

However, promotional and informational materials suggest the resort’s transformation could take two years to complete.

Originally opened in 1979 as the very first Club Med resort in Asia, Cherating was chosen by Gilbert Trigano, the co-founder of Club Med, for its prime, untouched forest and sweeping beachfront. Decades later, this transformation honours that original pioneering spirit, seamlessly blending modern upscale luxury with the resort’s natural assets.

Club Med Cherating remains the only resort in Asia boasting a completely self-contained, in-resort jungle. Rather than serving as a distant backdrop, the preservation of this 80-hectare lush ecosystem ensures that nature is fully embedded into the guest experience.

“Club Med Cherating holds a special place in our history as our first home in Asia,” said Club Med CEO for Southeast Asia and the Pacific Rachael Harding. This transformation will open a new chapter for this iconic destination.”

Signature curated experiences

Once Club Med Cherating reopens, it will introduce five signature experiences that allow guests to connect with the vibrant environment fully:

Hop on the Jungle Express: A signature transit experience that beautifully journeys through the dense, 80-hectare preserved jungle, revealing a stunning, hidden Pantai beach on the other side of the resort.

The Cliffside Challenge: An exhilarating eco-adventure where guests climb real, natural rock cliffs that rise dramatically above the sea on Pantai beach. At the summit, climbers are rewarded with panoramic ocean views.

Jungle Discovery Trails (Developed with a Local NGO): Led by an expert Green G.O (Gentle Organiser), guests can step into the jungle to uncover a hidden world through a new series of guided trails. These include specialised sunrise hikes, which reward guests with opportunities for wild animal spotting and birdwatching during the day, and mysterious fluorescent hikes as night falls.

Farm-to-Fork in the Jungle: Guests can take the Jungle Express to the Rembulan gourmet club to taste fresh, sustainably sourced local produce before finishing the evening with specially crafted cocktails at the lively, social heart of the resort.

Firefly Mangrove Cruise: As darkness falls, nature presents its most magical side. Guests glide along the calm mangrove river as fireflies beautifully illuminate the surrounding trees.

(Source: Club Med)

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Street festivals in Tokyo and Yokohama

In Tokyo, Shibuya Bon Odori is a thrilling summer festival that sees hundreds of brightly dressed dancers take to the streets of Shibuya – famed for its iconic pedestrian crossing. This August, urban explorers can experience this upbeat occasion at Best Western Hotel Fino Tokyo Akasaka or Best Western Hotel Fino Tokyo Akihabara, a choice of modern hotels in two of the capital’s most dynamic downtown districts. In nearby Yokohama, the Minatomirai Dai Bon-Odori is staged at the end of August in Rinko Park, overlooking the city’s famous waterfront. Whilst enjoying two days of exciting activities, revellers can rest and relax at Best Western Hotel Fino Shin-Yokohama, which is just a five-minute walk from JR Shin-Yokohama Station.

Captivating Cultural Occasions in Osaka and Nagoya

Rooted in Japan’s Shinto rituals, Tenjin Matsuri is celebrated every summer in Osaka and features colourful street parades, river-boat processions and dazzling firework displays. Visitors can enjoy this three-day extravaganza at a choice of three Best Western hotels: Best Western Osaka Tsukamoto, a contemporary property just moments from JR Tsukamoto Station, Best Western Plus Hotel Fino Osaka Kitahama, which offers elevated stays close to the Tosahori River, and Best Western Hotel Fino Osaka Shinsaibashi, a newly revitalised hotel in the beating heart of Osaka, close to City Hall. A short 50-minute bullet-train ride away in Nagoya, the Nippon Domannaka Matsuri features approximately 20,000 dancers performing in original costumes inspired by the city’s heritage. Located in the lively Sakae district, Best Western Plus Nagoya Sakae is surrounded by the festivities.

Endless summer refreshment in Hokkaido

In the northern island of Hokkaido, the annual Sapporo Summer Festival runs for almost a month during July and August. Sapporo’s Odori Park transforms into a vast urban dance arena and beer garden, with live performances and plenty of refreshments from the city’s famous breweries. Just a short drive from Sapporo, Best Western Plus Fino Chitose Hotel is a full-service hotel with modern rooms, a restaurant, a fitness centre and great transport links, putting Hokkaido’s many summertime attractions within easy reach.

Tropical island festivities in Fukuoka and Okinawa

Japan’s southern islands transform into tropical paradises every summer, with plenty of attractions and activities for culture-seeking explorers. On Kyushu Island, the city of Fukuoka bursts into life with the Nogata Summer Festival, featuring spectacular floats, stage performances, and dramatic fireworks. Surrounded by stylish bars and cafés, Best Western Plus Fukuoka Tenjin-minami lets travellers feel the pulse of this waterfront city. Finally, in Okinawa, Japan’s exotic island jewels, the Nago Summer Festival features food stalls, traditional eisa dancing and live music – wonderful to watch whilst strolling in a summer kimono. When the time comes to unwind, guests can escape to a choice of beachfront hotels: Best Western Resort Okinawa Kouki Beach, where every room offers a balcony with ocean vistas, and Best Western Okinawa Onna Beach, a low-rise resort nestled on a white sand bay.

There’s no better time to experience Japan’s colourful festivals, local traditions and diverse destinations. From vibrant city escapes and island retreats to scenic countryside adventures, travellers can explore the country while staying at Best Western hotels. To book your stay with BWH Hotels in Japan, visit bestwesternasia.com.

(Source: Your Stories — BWH)

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The 394-key hotel is located in Port Moresby’s central business and government district, a five-minute drive from Jacksons International Airport and connected to the Vision City Mega Mall – marking Marriott International’s second property in the country and a significant milestone for the brand’s expansion in the Pacific.

Meetings, Dining & Social Spaces: More than 2,500 sqm of meeting and event space, including Papua New Guinea’s largest ballroom, complemented by multiple dining venues and the new Sheraton Club.

Wellness & Recreation: An infinity swimming pool, one of Port Moresby’s largest fitness centres and a full-service day spa.

The integration with retail, dining, and entertainment reinforces the hotel’s role as a central hub, offering guests continuous security and peace of mind while staying in Port Moresby.

(Source: Sheraton Hotels & Resorts)

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Agoda search data highlights free cancellation and ‘pay at the hotel’ as some of the region’s most-used filters, reflecting preferences for convenience and greater control over travel plans.

While accommodation type remains the most-used search filter, accounting for 19% of all filter use across Asia, traveller priorities are diversifying. Both ‘free cancellation’ and ‘pay-at-hotel’ options have climbed into the top 10 most popular filters region-wide, highlighting the increasing importance travellers are placing on clear cancellation policies and flexible payment options, in addition to where they stay.

Agoda’s additional data show that this desire for flexibility extends throughout the trip-planning journey. Travellers aren’t just looking for refundable options; they are also tailoring their searches to convenient property features such as specific bed types, parking facilities, and proximity to public transport. Travellers are looking for accommodations that can easily cater to their specific travel styles, whether they are planning a spontaneous drive-to getaway, travelling with a large group, or mapping out a multi-stop itinerary.

“Search filters can reveal what travellers want to know before they book, whether that’s the right accommodation type, greater flexibility or confidence in the quality of a stay,” said Agoda Senior Vice President, Supply Andrew Smith. “For accommodation providers, these insights can be a roadmap for meeting evolving traveller expectations. Properties that make their value proposition clear, highlight the amenities guests care about most, and reduce booking friction will be better positioned to increase visibility, encourage conversion in an increasingly competitive market.”

(Source: Agoda)

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The Rafa Nadal Tennis Centre, which operates flagship academies in Mallorca and Kuwait, has chosen to establish its first Southeast Asian outpost at Samara Lombok.

Located on Lombok’s south coast, just a 25-minute drive from Lombok International Airport, Samara Lombok is a 150-hectare integrated coastal destination set to open in Q1 2028 — the first “Destination by Hyatt” in Southeast Asia. The development will open with three boutique hotels and 150 of a planned 500 villas. It will also feature 12 dining concepts, a marine biology and watersports centre operated by luxury expedition company Rascal Voyages, and a football training centre.

The centre will feature four world-class tennis courts and four padel courts.

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As demand for premium travel continues to rise, with the market projected to grow from an estimated USD1.6 trillion in 2025 to USD3 trillion by 2033, WorldHotels is strengthening its network through branded residences, immersive outdoor hospitality, wellness retreats and distinctive independent hotels in sought-after destinations worldwide.

“Every addition to the WorldHotels portfolio represents more than growth; it represents a shared commitment to excellence,” said Ron Pohl, President of WorldHotels. “Independent hotel owners are increasingly seeking partners to help them compete without compromising the character and authenticity that sets their properties apart.

Spotlight: WorldHotels’ developments in Asia

Essensia Sky and Parkway Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: This project marks WorldHotels’ inaugural entry into high-end residential living, featuring 74 villas and 424 apartment units set to open in September. It’s a testament to the brand’s commitment to delivering elevated living experiences in bustling urban areas.

WorldHotels Long Beach Resort, Phu Quoc, Vietnam: This beachfront resort offers a luxurious island experience amid the stunning landscape of Phu Quoc. It reflects the brand’s focus on combining leisure with natural beauty.

Ecoland Hotel, WorldHotels Elite, Jeju Island, South Korea: Marking WorldHotels’ debut in South Korea, this contemporary luxury retreat emphasises nature-inspired design and premium amenities. It’s aimed at travellers seeking relaxation and immersion in their surroundings.

Resort Country Club, WorldHotels Distinctive, near Manesar, India: Positioned just outside New Delhi, this resort blends upscale leisure with recreational activities, including championship golf, introducing WorldHotels to India’s burgeoning premium hospitality market.

To support its expanding luxury portfolio, BWH Hotels continues to strengthen commercial resources for WorldHotels properties through its dedicated Upscale & Luxury Worldwide Sales division, connecting independent hotels with high-value corporate and leisure travel opportunities.

For more information about WorldHotels, visit WorldHotels’ development website.

About WorldHotels
WorldHotels is a privately held hotel soft brand within the BWH Hotels global enterprise. Founded by independent hoteliers dedicated to the art of hospitality, WorldHotels offers one of the finest portfolios of independent hotels and resorts worldwide, expertly curated to inspire unique, life-enriching experiences that connect people and places. WorldHotels comprises five unique collections, each with its own personality and style to appeal to the needs of today’s traveller, from elevated oceanfront resorts and upscale city hotels to wellness retreats and glamping accommodations. The collections include: WorldHotels Luxury, WorldHotels Elite, WorldHotels Crafted, WorldHotels Distinctive and WorldHotels Backdrop. For more information, visit WorldHotels.com. 

About BWH Hotels
BWH Hotels is a leading global hospitality enterprise comprising three hotel companies — WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay Hotels. The global enterprise boasts approximately 4,300 hotels in over 100 countries and territories, with 18 brands across every chain-scale segment, from luxury to economy. BWH Hotels suits the needs of developers and guests in every market. 

For more information, visit bwhhotels.com. 

(Source: Your Stories — WorldHotels)

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The 300-room resort opened this month adjacent to Layan Beach and offers access to many of the destination’s attractions, such as Laguna Phuket, Boat Avenue, Porto de Phuket, championship golf courses, and stylish beach clubs, all within a 15-minute drive. Phuket International Airport is approximately a 30-minute drive away.

Designed around wellbeing and relaxation, the resort offers a range of facilities for guests seeking restorative experiences.

The Malai Spa provides a peaceful space inspired by traditional Thai wellness, offering signature massages and aromatherapy treatments. Guests can also maintain their fitness routines in the fully equipped 24-hour fitness centre, complete with dedicated yoga facilities and modern cardio and strength-training equipment.

 Visitors can uncover Phuket’s rich cultural heritage in Old Phuket Town, visit the historic Wat Phra Thong temple, experience authentic local life in Bang Rong Community or discover hidden coastal gems including Banana Beach and Leam Son Beach.

Fast facts

(Source: Radisson Hotel Group)

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The opening represents the next chapter of the company’s long-term premium growth strategy, strengthening its position in the luxury hospitality sector while supporting Krabi’s emergence as one of Asia’s most desirable quiet luxury destinations.

Building on the success of Centara Reserve Samui, the new resort reflects the company’s continued investment in high-value travel experiences designed for today’s affluent global travellers. As demand for authentic, immersive luxury travel continues to grow, Centara sees significant long-term potential in Thailand’s luxury tourism sector, driven by longer average stays, higher average daily rates (ADR), and discerning travellers seeking meaningful, destination-led experiences.

“We believe Thailand has every ingredient to be recognised among the world’s leading luxury destinations, from its rich culture and exceptional hospitality to its breathtaking natural beauty and world-class service. The opportunity now is to create hospitality brands that are equally distinctive on the global stage. Through Centara Reserve, we are redefining modern Thai luxury by bringing together experience-led travel, cultural authenticity and a genuine sense of place. The launch of Centara Reserve Krabi marks another significant milestone in our long-term strategy to strengthen our premium portfolio while helping elevate Thailand’s position in global luxury hospitality,” said Michael Henssler, Chief Operating Officer, Centara Hotels & Resorts.

Reserved for truly iconic destinations, Centara Reserve is designed around meaningful cultural connections, personalised service and immersive local experiences. The brand responds to a growing shift in luxury travel, where affluent guests increasingly value authenticity and human connection over traditional definitions of luxury. According to the American Express Global Travel Trends Report, 59% of affluent travellers define luxury through meaningful human interactions rather than material indulgence.

The Reserve journey began with the opening of Centara Reserve Samui in December 2021, introducing a new interpretation of Thai luxury centred around storytelling, cultural immersion and personalised hospitality. Unlike many luxury brands, Reserve was designed not only for couples but also for families, offering multi-generational luxury experiences that remain rare within the premium hospitality market.

Since opening, Centara Reserve Samui has established itself as one of Thailand’s leading luxury resorts, setting a new benchmark for personalised, experience-led hospitality while validating Centara’s long-term vision for the Reserve brand. The resort earned 28 international awards, consistently maintaining a perfect five-out-of-five Tripadvisor rating and delivering strong commercial performance. In 2025, the resort recorded a 7.5% year-on-year increase in revenue, supported by continued ADR growth, demonstrating the commercial success of Centara’s luxury strategy.

An Investment in the Future of Thai Hospitality

The transformation of the former Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi into the world’s second Centara Reserve represents a significant investment in the future of Thailand’s luxury hospitality industry.

Located at the exclusive Pai Plong Bay, the fully reimagined resort has been carefully designed to meet evolving demand for experience-led luxury while capitalising on Krabi’s growing appeal among high-value international travellers. With increasing demand for premium leisure travel, longer average visitor stays and strong ADR potential, Krabi has emerged as one of Thailand’s most promising luxury destinations.

“Centara Reserve Samui is where the Reserve story began – a place where timeless island living and personalised service came together to redefine modern Thai luxury. Centara Reserve Krabi is where the story becomes even more immersive, shaped by dramatic landscapes, deeper cultural connections and an extraordinary sense of place,” said Neil Li, Corporate Director of Operations – Centara Reserve & The Centara Collection and General Manager of Centara Reserve Samui. “Every aspect of the resort has been thoughtfully developed to deliver a contemporary luxury experience that resonates with today’s affluent travellers while celebrating the warmth and authenticity that define Thai hospitality.”

Krabi: Thailand’s Emerging Quiet Luxury Destination

Home to some of Thailand’s most iconic seascapes, including Railay Bay and Maya Bay, Krabi is renowned for its turquoise waters, white-sand beaches and dramatic limestone cliffs. Combined with its rich Southern Thai heritage and a naturally slower pace of life, the destination offers a compelling alternative to more established resort markets.

Unlike its neighbour Phuket, Krabi has retained a more intimate atmosphere, making it increasingly attractive to travellers seeking privacy, authenticity and meaningful experiences. This positions the destination strongly within the global “quiet luxury” travel trend.

Centara Reserve Krabi

Set within a secluded beachfront cove accessible by boat, Centara Reserve Krabi will feature 120 elegantly designed rooms, suites and pool villas ranging from 75 to 388 square metres, alongside lagoon pools, Reserve Spa Cenvaree and three restaurants and three bars, including the renowned Salt Society Beach Bar & Kitchen.

Every stay will be thoughtfully curated through personalised welcome rituals, locally inspired experiences and bespoke itineraries led by dedicated Reserve Hosts, creating authentic connections between guests and the destination.

Looking ahead, Centara continues to explore opportunities to expand the Reserve brand into other iconic destinations across Thailand and internationally. While the first two Reserve properties are beachfront resorts, Centara also sees long-term potential to introduce the Reserve brand into gateway cities, including Bangkok, as well as selected destinations in Japan and Europe.

For more information about Centara Hotels & Resorts, please visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com.

(Source: Your Stories — Centara Hotels & Resorts)

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Hilton Hotels & Resorts (brand value up 28% to USD19.2 billion) has seen growth supported by its strong premium positioning, global reputation for high-quality hospitality, and continued investment in its luxury portfolio, including Waldorf Astoria, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, LXR Hotels & Resorts, and NoMad Hotels. 

Expansion into high-demand luxury destinations has further strengthened Hilton’s global presence and reinforced its appeal among affluent travellers.

Hyatt (brand value down 6% to USD7.5 billion) retains its position as the world’s second most valuable luxury hotel brand. The brand continues to strengthen its luxury positioning through the expansion of its premium portfolio, including Park Hyatt, Alila, Miraval, and Andaz, which cater to growing demand for personalised and experience-led stays. Hyatt’s record development pipeline of 148,000 rooms and continued growth of its World of Hyatt loyalty programme to approximately 63 million members further support its long-term growth prospects, as the brand expands its presence across key luxury travel markets.

Marriott (brand value up 23% to USD4.6 billion) ranks as the world’s third most valuable luxury hotel brand, supported by continued portfolio expansion and strong global brand equity. The group’s luxury offering, spanning brands such as Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, JW Marriott, and EDITION, continues to benefit from rising demand for premium experiences and personalised hospitality. 

Growth initiatives, including expanding its luxury portfolio and launching new concepts such as Series by Marriott, have strengthened Marriott’s ability to cater to evolving luxury traveller preferences. Its Marriott Bonvoy ecosystem, with 271 million members globally, further reinforces customer loyalty and supports sustained brand growth across international markets.

Meanwhile, with a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 93.5/100 and an AAA+ brand strength rating, Taj Hotels (brand value up 32% to USD878 million) retains its position as the world’s strongest luxury hotel brand. As luxury travellers increasingly seek authentic and experience-led stays, Taj continues to differentiate itself through its distinctive blend of Indian heritage, personalised hospitality, and timeless luxury. Its strong brand equity reflects its ability to deliver meaningful guest experiences while preserving its unique cultural identity on the global hospitality stage.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts ranks as the world’s second strongest luxury hotel brand, achieving a BSI score of 87.1/100 and an AAA-brand strength rating, underpinned by its premium positioning, extensive global luxury portfolio, and reputation for delivering high-quality hospitality across international markets. Marriott ranks third strongest, with a BSI score of 83.4/100 and an AAA brand strength rating, reflecting the strength of its diverse luxury brand portfolio, global reach, and continued investment in premium guest experiences.

As part of the Hotels 50 2026 report, Brand Finance has separately ranked the world’s 10 leading luxury hotel brands by brand value and brand strength.

(Source: Brand Finance)

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