Krabi, Thailand, November 14, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The Michelin Guide's first hotel award program, Michelin Keys, has awarded two keys to the Banyan Tree Krabi, a luxury resort located on the tranquil Tubkaek Beach on the Andaman coast in southern Thailand.

The France-based Michelin Guide, famous for its awards to the most exquisite restaurants, has for the first time introduced a rating system with “keys” to recognize the world’s most outstanding hotels.

The MICHELIN Guide 2024 hotel selection in Thailand included a total of eight hotels with three keys (the highest rating), 19 hotels with two keys, and 31 hotels with one key. Each hotel was visited and evaluated anonymously by Michelin inspectors. The Banyan Tree Krabi was one of only four resorts or hotels in the Krabi region to receive one key.

According to the Michelin Guide, the award is based on five criteria: excellence in architecture and design; quality of service; overall personality and character; value for money; and meaningful contributions to the local community.

Furthermore, the respected French travel guide also recommended the resort's spa, the Banyan Tree Spa Krabi, as one of the seven "most luxurious" spas in Thailand.

The signature experience at Banyan Tree Spa Krabi is The Rainforest, the region's first luxury hydrotherapy facility, described by the Michelin Guide as a place "where tropical tranquility meets holistic well-being".

“Immerse yourself in a luxurious hydrothermal circuit with a rain path, steam room, sauna, ice fountain, vitality pool, outdoor hot and cold plunge pools, whirlpool, and heated lounger,” says the Michelin Guide. “Be enchanted by the tropical mist, relax under the soothing rain shower, and enjoy an invigorating body scrub that moisturizes your skin. Experience true tranquility while an experienced therapist gently releases your tension.”

The spa features eight private treatment rooms, each equipped with a selection of "color relaxation" treatments. The theory behind color relaxation states that the light spectrum transports electromagnetic energy and thus affects the energy pathways or chakras.

This month, the Banyan Tree Spa Krabi has introduced a new treatment idea for its guests – free zero-gravity therapy sessions.

Weightlessness therapy is a holistic technique in which one floats in water. The buoyancy helps to alleviate pain and stress. This treatment method, also known as floatation therapy, is based on sensory deprivation and is known to induce a state of deep relaxation.

At the Banyan Tree Spa Krabi, customers are gently guided and led over the water by trained therapists in individual treatments that usually last half an hour.

“Weightlessness therapy is an alternative method to heal body and mind,” said Montira Vichiankoo, manager of the Banyan Tree Spa Krabi. “The meditative state achieved by floating in water helps us relax while also exercising muscles, joints, and bones.”

The new weightless therapy experience is just one of several innovations at the award-winning spa, which describes itself as an "oasis of the senses" and offers massage and wellness treatments, including traditional Thai and oil massages such as the Restorative Detox Massage, a deep tissue massage to stimulate the circulatory system. Alternatively, the Sleep Essentials Massage offers a unique ritual that puts body and mind into a deep state of relaxation.

Every therapist at the resort has completed intensive training at the Banyan Spa & Wellbeing Academy, which introduces students to its own “8 pillar philosophy”.

The 8-pillar philosophy – which includes the concepts of connection, growth, grounding, nourishment, rest, movement, exercise and mindfulness – is also evident in Banyan Tree's "Wellbeing Sanctuary" program, which was launched in 2021.

Apart from a selection of suites dedicated to holistic wellness activities, the “Wellbeing Sanctuary” offers guests the opportunity to combine a relaxing holiday with a daily program designed to enrich mind, body and soul – from meditation to Thai boxing, from massage and hydrotherapy to nature walks and sailing courses – complemented by nutritious food and personal consultations.

The Banyan Tree Krabi is situated on a tranquil stretch of beach, its terraced design clinging to a lush hillside with westward views of the Andaman Sea and the sunset. It features 72 pool suites and villas, including seven two-bedroom suites, one three-bedroom villa, and a majestic seven-bedroom Presidential Beachfront Pool Villa.

The facilities include two restaurants and a beach bar, a beach club, a kids' club, a fitness center, meeting rooms and the aforementioned rainforest-style spa.

ABOUT BANYAN TREE: Banyan Tree offers a retreat to rejuvenate body, mind, and soul in breathtaking locations around the globe. Rediscover the romance of travel and embark on journeys to legendary destinations where authentic and unforgettable experiences await. Banyan Tree offers exclusively villas, often with private pools, and guarantees warm and personalized service and a distinctive premium retreat experience.

ABOUT THE BANYAN GROUP The Banyan Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group” – SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with a clear purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences, and commitment to responsible business practices. Its extensive portfolio includes over 70 hotels and resorts, over 60 spas and galleries, and 14 branded residences in more than 20 countries. The Group comprises 12 global brands, including its flagship brand, Banyan Tree. Each brand is independent but connected through the withBanyan experience membership program. The founding principle of “protecting the environment, empowering people” is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and the Banyan Management Academy. The Banyan Group remains committed to sustainable travel, focusing on regenerative tourism and innovative programs that enhance the guest experience.