Travel news: Southern Thailand in the spotlight

From the launch of new wellness experiences by Minor Hotels to mixology masterclasses at one of Phuket's most famous distilleries, here's a roundup of exciting new experiences to keep in mind the next time you're in southern Thailand.

Eco-oasis: Khao Lak welcomes the JW Garden

More recently, the JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa opened its innovative “JW Garden,” a 27-hectare protected area dedicated to sustainability and conservation. This innovative project is home to over 200 species of native plants, fruits and herbs and helps integrate ethical sourcing into the resort’s culinary offerings. Guests can explore the garden on guided tours, meet chickens, ducks and other animals, and learn about organic farming.

In addition, children can also benefit from lessons at the on-site Environmental School, which aims to highlight the importance of sustainable practices. In addition to guided tours, visitors can enjoy a range of other activities including bird watching, kayaking, herb picking, fitness sessions on the brand new running track and nature experiences at the Yoga Shala and Lagoon Escape.

Quiet retreat: Kamalaya Koh Samui introduces day passes

Kamalaya Koh Samui now offers day passes that grant access to its world-class facilities. Known for its idyllic location, the resort offers visitors services from over 50 certified professionals who are well-versed in various fields such as naturopathy, Ayurveda and yoga. Guests can also explore the resort's Shakti Fitness Centre, open-air wellness sanctuary, thermal pools, historic meditation cave and herbal steam caves. With customizable packages and discounts on select experiences, visitors can tailor their full-day visit to their liking.

Revive and thrive: Layan Life by Anantara aims to redefine wellness

Minor Hotels will introduce Layan Life by Anantara at Anantara Layan Phuket Resort. Layan Life, a world-class medical wellness facility, will span 1,767 square metres and combine cutting-edge medical technologies with traditional Rajasamnak healing practices.

The two-story center – which offers 3- to 10-day programs that combine modern medical assessments, customized nutrition and fitness advice – houses an expansive gym, yoga and Pilates studios, meditation rooms, a hydrotherapy area, a Thai herbal pharmacy and rooms for treatments such as infusions, physiotherapy and beauty treatments. In addition, the dedicated “Active Zone” offers tennis courts, a Muay Thai ring, a climbing wall and an outdoor fitness area with water sports.

Mixology Masterclass: Distillery Phuket’s new interactive workshops

Distillery Phuket in Chalong now offers interactive workshops where guests can learn how to mix, stir and shake cocktails while discovering the unique stories behind several local spirits, including Lanna vodka, Chalong Bay rum and Saneha gin. In addition to the workshop, participants can also take part in a tasting session featuring nine spirits, while younger guests can participate in a fun mocktail workshop.

Elite expansion: The luxury zone in the center of Phuket

In the coming months, Central Phuket will expand its “luxury zone” from 2,000 to 8,000 square meters. This expansion will not only increase the existing brand space, but also add new names, bringing the total from 14 to 30 brands, including Balenciaga, Dior and Prada (the latter of which is set to open this month). The luxury area will also be moved to the second floor to make room for exciting super-luxury stores that are in the pipeline.