Guest programming and educational tools surrounding sustainability to be collaboratively designed

  OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels, a leader in global beachfront hospitality, is proud to renew its landmark partnership with NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries. This collaboration underscores OUTRIGGER’s unwavering commitment to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles and its dedication to the preservation of ocean health.   The brand alliance is designed to further amplify outreach and educational programmes focusing on marine conservation, aligning with OUTRIGGER’s ESG goals and its global OUTRIGGER Zone conservation platform. This initiative aims to enrich guest experiences while actively contributing to the protection and sustainability of oceanic ecosystems, fostering a wave of awareness about the vital role of marine ecosystems among guests, hosts, and community partners.   "At OUTRIGGER, we believe that hospitality and environmental stewardship are intrinsically linked," said Monica Salter, VP of Global Communications & Social Responsibility at OUTRIGGER Hospitality Group. "Extending our partnership with NOAA is a natural step in our ongoing commitment to safeguarding the marine environments surrounding our iconic properties. By actively protecting these waters, we help to ensure that the spirit of kuleana (responsibility) is woven into the guest experience."   OUTRIGGER will incorporate national marine sanctuaries’ educational tools and resources into its guest experiences across its properties, enhancing the understanding and appreciation of marine biodiversity. Kicking off this partnership, NOAA was represented at the 8th annual OUTRIGGER Zone Day at the Waikīkī Aquarium as part of its World Ocean Month celebration.   "This agreement with OUTRIGGER enables us to reach a wider audience and make a meaningful impact on marine conservation and education," said Kim Hum, Superintendent, NOAA’s Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. "For example, our life size inflatable whale, Kamakai, was a big hit at OUTRIGGER Kā‘anapali's July 4 celebration. Their commitment to sustainability and expansive reach in key coastal locations provide an ideal platform to engage the public in conservation efforts – in Hawai‘i, Asia Pacific and beyond."   The relationship reflects OUTRIGGER's dedication to its founding values of local culture and respect for the environment, ensuring that the beauty of the world's oceans can be sustained for future generations.   For more information about OUTRIGGER's sustainability initiatives please visit: www.outrigger.com/ozone.

  The $60 million renovation of OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa is now complete and the 22-acre resort stands ready to welcome guests to Keauhou, a name that signifies a “New Era.”   Perched on the cliffs of Keauhou Bay with spectacular ocean views across the Kona coast of the Big Island of Hawai‘i, the history of Keauhou resonates throughout the transformed property.   The revitalized 511 guest rooms/suites and meeting spaces artfully blend the property's profound heritage and reverence for voyaging with modern aesthetics. Inspired by the concept of "kōī au," symbolizing a flowing current and eloquence, the resort’s design by Looney & Associates seamlessly incorporates oceanic currents and wave motifs into its interiors, offering a genuine reflection of the spirit of Keauhou Bay.     The expansive Kaleiopapa Convention Center also underwent enhancements, solidifying its status as a premier event venue with more than 100,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space.   “Through meticulous design and a deep-rooted cultural narrative, we aspired to etch an enduring impression on our guests’ hearts and minds, fostering a profound connection with Hawai‘i’s rich tapestry of history and traditions,” stated Geoff Pearson, general manager of OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa. “With enhanced amenities including Piko Coffee & Wine Bar, we look forward to a new era of Keauhou and perpetuating the legacy of this sacred place.”   Located in the center of the property, the new Piko Coffee & Wine Bar features a variety of white and red wines, rosés and champagnes, sourced from California, France, Italy and New Zealand. Partnering with Big Island Coffee Roasters, a custom blend of Kona and Kaʻu coffee allows for a unique experience that evokes a sense of place through locally sourced ingredients.   Guests can now unwind in style amidst the upgraded lounge chairs and cabanas gracing the adults-only and oceanfront pools, while the young and young-at-heart delight in the 200-foot waterslide. Club-level room guests gain exclusive access to the new Voyager 47 Club Lounge, adding a touch of indulgence to their stay.   The adventurous traveler can take part in nightly manta ray tours via the Kini Kini, a 40ft Hawaiian sailing canoe to learn the myths, legends and facts of the Hahalua (manta ray) before getting in the water and snorkeling alongside these magnificent creatures. Kona is the premiere destination for manta ray sightings, and the property embraces conservation and education for these animals through the Manta Center and annual Manta Day festivities in September.   Visitors can also immerse themselves in daily cultural activities, including a captivating 90-minute guided tour of the historic villages of Kaukulaelae and Keauhou Bay, the birthplace of King Kamehameha III.   As the sun sets, the Feast & Fire Lū‘au pays tribute to the first Polynesians to land in Hawai‘i on the oceanfront of Keauhou Bay, just south of Kamakahonu, the residence of ali‘i (royalty). Developed by Traditions Hawaiʻi, a local production company backed by the iconic Lim and Yap family, guests are treated to a mesmerizing performance that transports them through Hawaiian history. Newly announced for the summer, the Feast & Fire Lūʻau package includes accommodation and two complimentary general admission seats, inviting guests to take part in the vibrant cultural celebration.   The evening also includes an Artisan Village where guests can make lei, watch a poi pounding demonstration, create an art piece by traditional bamboo stamping (ʻOhe Kāpala), or shop a selection of curated treasures from local artisans. For those who enjoy games, traditional Hawaiian games can be found on the Makahiki gaming grounds, featuring native stone bowling, Hawaiian checkers and more.   To reserve a stay at the legendary OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa and partake in this remarkable transformation firsthand, please visit the link HERE or contact your preferred travel advisor.  

The $60 million renovation of Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa is now complete and the 22-acre resort stands ready to welcome guests to Keauhou, a name that signifies a “New Era.” It features 511 revitalized guest rooms/suites and meeting spaces. The resort is perched on the cliffs of Keauhou Bay overlooking the ocean. The Kaleiopapa Convention Center also underwent enhancements, boasting more than 100,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space. ”With enhanced amenities including Piko Coffee & Wine Bar, we look forward to a new era of Keauhou,” said Geoff Pearson, general manager. Club-level room guests gain exclusive access to the Hawaii resort’s new Voyager 47 Club Lounge. Guests can take part in nightly manta ray tours via the Kini Kini, a 40ft Hawaiian sailing canoe. Kona is the premiere destination for manta ray sightings, and the property embraces conservation and education through the Manta Center and annual Manta Day activities in September. Visitors can also immerse themselves in cultural activities, including a 90-minute guided tour of the historic villages of Kaukulaelae and Keauhou Bay, the birthplace of King Kamehameha III. Evenings includes an Artisan Village where guests can make lei, watch a poi pounding demonstration, or create an art piece out of traditional bamboo stamping. 

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OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort recently marked the official Grand Opening of its signature beachfront restaurant, Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman - led by culinary pioneer Peter Merriman.  Located directly on the sands of Waikiki Beach, the contemporary design of OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort is rooted in Hawaiian music and culture. It is adorned with carefully curated art exhibits, with upscale residential-style rooms and suites, and chic poolside experiences It has a fully refreshed Kani Ka Pila Grille and Cyril Pahinui Stage. The expansive resort grounds include three distinct wings: the Ocean Tower, the Pacific Tower and the reimagined Diamond Head Tower. It also features the Waiola Wellness Wing, the enhanced Voyager 47 Club Lounge, and a new Coral Kids Club and state-of-the art fitness centre. Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman is a brand-new restaurant at the base of the Diamond Head Tower, perched on the sands of Waikiki with ocean views. "This is the perfect complement for this iconic beachfront retreat, enabling our guests to connect deeply to the islands through craft food, drink and live music.,” said Jeff Wagoner, OUTRIGGER president and CEO. Approximately 500 VIP guests, including celebrities, executives, and community members, gathered for the official Grand Opening of Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman. The evening’s beneficiary was OUTRIGGERCares Foundation, which has been focused on providing grants and support to impacted OUTRIGGER hosts since the Maui fires last August. Nick Lacheym lead singer of the multi-platinum-selling band 98 Degrees helped to present a $5,000 cheque to the OUTRIGGERCares Foundation. 

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Barefoot luxury reaches new heights at Lonubo – an idyllic private island adjacent to OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort where guests can indulge in the epitome of serenity

  OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort is pleased to unveil an unparalleled experience in barefoot luxury travel, allowing its esteemed guests to bask in the epitome of relaxation on their own secluded haven – the exquisite Lonubo private island.   Situated just 200 metres from OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort, Lonubo boasts lush palm-covered landscapes and promises an exclusive retreat with unparalleled tranquility and privacy for an unforgettable experience.   "With a private island at their disposal, OUTRIGGER guests can elevate the castaway beach experience to unprecedented heights," affirms the resort’s General Manager, John Allanson. "Our commitment to privacy and exclusivity, coupled with luxurious touches, ensures an experience beyond compare."   Upon arrival at Lonubo via a private boat transfer, couples are welcomed to their own private paradise equipped with sun loungers, plush beanbags, sunshades, towels and light refreshments for a four-hour escape into unparalleled bliss.   For those seeking to elevate their experience, an optional gourmet picnic awaits, complete with a curated setup and a selection of delectable food and beverages tailored to their preferences. Romantic evenings can be further enhanced with a starlit barbecue beach dinner, featuring a private chef and waiter ensuring an indulgent barefoot wining and dining experience.   As the sun sets, guests can choose optional enhancements such as an open log fire, tantalising canapés paired with Taittinger Brut Reserve champagne and a private movie screening featuring the film of their choice.   For culinary connoisseurs, the resort's chef recommends the ultimate surf and turf dinner – a lavish feast featuring a one-kilo Maldivian lobster and 500g of black Angus tenderloin steak, expertly grilled to perfection by the dedicated chef on Lonubo.   A detailed brochure outlining the exquisite Lonubo Island private experience is available for interested guests.   To make this dream-like experience a reality, OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort is pleased to offer exclusive savings and value-added promotions until 4 December, 2023, as part of the resort's CYBER Sale promotions. Visit OUTRIGGER.com to seize this exceptional opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime escape.

 

Experience Exquisite Culinary Delights as Eyck Zimmer Takes Centre Stage at OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru in January 2024

  Multiple award-winning international chef Eyck Zimmer will bring his culinary expertise to the luxury OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort 17-31 January 2024.   Zimmer will curate two extraordinary five-course dining experiences at the resort's Art-i-san restaurant, as well as host two captivating cooking demonstrations.   Hailing from Germany, Eyck Zimmer stands as one of the foremost luminaries in the world of contemporary haute cuisine. His illustrious career has been adorned with accolades, including the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de Grande Bretagne in 2000, British Chef of the Year in 2006 and Portuguese Chef of the Year in 2008. His remarkable contributions to French culture and culinary excellence were acknowledged by the French Government, bestowing upon him the esteemed title of Chevalier du Mérite Agricole in 2014. Furthermore, he earned the distinguished title of Master of Culinary Arts from the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts of Great Britain.   Zimmer's culinary journey has been punctuated by stints in some of the United Kingdom's most renowned kitchens, including Claridge's, The Dorchester, The Ritz and The Savoy. His culinary prowess has also left an indelible mark on five-star establishments in Switzerland, Portugal, Serbia, and Germany.   Presently, Eyck Zimmer serves as the Director of Culinary at the illustrious Jockey Club in Hong Kong, where he continues to channel his passion for the culinary arts. His unwavering dedication to his craft is epitomised by his motto, "Born to cook. No plan B!"   Growing up in East Germany during the era of the Cold War, Zimmer's affinity for food was cultivated at a young age. Inspired by the renowned French chef Paul Bocuse, he embarked on his culinary journey at the age of 16. Over the span of 36 years, Zimmer has enriched the culinary landscape in six different countries, earning him high acclaim.   It is worth noting that Eyck Zimmer shares a special history with OUTRIGGER Maldives, as he previously collaborated with the resort's General Manager, John Allanson, during their time at Rocco Forte’s The Lowry Hotel in Manchester from 2005 to 2007.   Zimmer's previous collaborations with OUTRIGGER in the Maldives, in 2017 and 2019, were marked by his exceptional commitment to both guests and hosts, leaving an indelible impression on those fortunate enough to experience his artistry.   Christopher Long, Executive Chef at OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru, speaks highly of Eyck Zimmer, noting, "Eyck gave a tremendous amount of time to both guests and hosts on his previous visits. Despite his many achievements, Eyck remains extremely humble. I am particularly looking forward to his return to OUTRIGGER Maldives."   This January, guests at the OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort will once again have the privilege of savouring the exquisite culinary creations of Eyck Zimmer, an icon of modern European haute cuisine.   For more information and bookings, visit OUTRIGGER.com or contact your preferred travel advisor. Join OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort for an unforgettable culinary journey, where the art of gastronomy meets the essence of barefoot luxury.

 

Edwin Torres to take the helm of the company’s newest beach resort on the island of Maui

  Effective immediately, Edwin Torres will lead the beachfront OUTRIGGER Kaanapali Beach Resort, in Maui, Hawaii. As General Manager he will help OUTRIGGER hosts, their families and the community in the aftermath of the Lahaina wildfires. OUTRIGGER Hospitality Group, finalised its acquisition of the 11-acre (4.4 ha), 432-room Kaanapali Beach Hotel on 26 July, 2023. It was renamed the OUTRIGGER Kaanapali Beach Resort. The property is located on the golden sands of world-famous Kaanapali Beach, Maui – recently ranked as the number one beach in the US and the number 10 beach in the world by TripAdvisor. Torres will lead the beachfront resort with an eye to delivering exceptional service and authentic guest experiences while ensuring operational profitability and host engagement and development. Torres has been complex General Manager, overseeing both the OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel and OHANA Waikiki East by OUTRIGGER since February. Before that, he was General Manager of OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel since 2021 – Hawaii’s first craft hotel which he elevated to number one on TripAdvisor out of 94 hotels on O‘ahu. Torres’ OUTRIGGER career began as food and beverage director at the OUTRIGGER Guam Beach Resort. His industry experience includes Director of Event Operations for the Grand Hotel Marriott in Point Clear, Alabama; Food & Beverage Director at both W Retreat & Spa Vieques Island, Puerto Rico and Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina, British Virgin Islands. “Edwin possesses the remarkable skill to cultivate a success-driven atmosphere, uniting his colleagues in a tight-knit ohana (family),” said Mike Shaff, OUTRIGGER Senior Vice President-Hotel Operations for the Americas. "I have full confidence in Edwin's capacity to lead this renowned resort impeccably, particularly in the aftermath of the destructive fires in Lahaina.”

Outrigger Webinar Training Series

  Watch and dive headfirst into all-things-Outrigger. Hear from our APAC team on the latest from Castaway Island; get a sneak peek into renovations at Outrigger Kona; and be entered for a chance to win a stay at our unforgettable beachfront locations!...(2) nights Outrigger Reef; (2) nights Outrigger Kona; (2) nights Outrigger Kaanapali.

  OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels has finalised its acquisition of the iconic Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel, situated on the sands of world-famous Kā‘anapali Beach – recently ranked as the No. 1 beach in the U.S. and No. 10 Beach in the World by TripAdvisor. The 11-acre (4.5ha), 432-room property will now sail under the banner of OUTRIGGER Kā‘anapali Beach Resort, allowing travellers to experience the soulful essence of authentic Hawaiian culture fused with OUTRIGGER Signature Experiences.   The completed purchase on 26 July further anchors OUTRIGGER in its mission to be "The Premier Beach Resort Company in the World" and heralds a new chapter in its global voyage of delivering barefoot luxury with unparalleled hospitality across Hawaii, Fiji, Mauritius, Thailand and the Maldives.   “As a Hawaii-based company for 75 years, we have cultivated a profound appreciation for this enchanting place and its people,” said Jeff Wagoner, president and CEO of OUTRIGGER Hospitality Group. “We understand the responsibility of being exceptional stewards of this treasured land and embrace the opportunity to continue the tradition of excellence at this extraordinary property. The Kā‘anapali Resort area is undeniably a sought-after destination, captivating travellers from across the globe with its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. We are committed to elevating this experience to new heights while being a collaborative community partner.”   One of the cornerstones of every OUTRIGGER resort is a must-visit beach bar. Maui Brewing Co., a beloved local brand with a deep island heritage, will be the primary restaurant at OUTRIGGER Kā‘anapali Beach Resort. Set to open later this summer, the beachfront space will further enhance the allure of the resort, offering a family-friendly dining experience for breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as live music.   In addition to premium culinary offerings, OUTRIGGER Kā‘anapali Beach Resort will also remain true to The OUTRIGGER Way by continuing to provide enriching cultural activities for all guests, as well as sustainability measures to protect and preserve the shores of Kā‘anapali Beach through the company’s global OUTRIGGER Zone initiative. This includes offering complimentary reef-safe sunscreen from its partner Raw Elements, as well as metal water bottles and reusable bags at check-in for guests to practice sustainability.   OUTRIGGER Kā‘anapali Beach Resort will be added to the award-winning OUTRIGGER DISCOVERY loyalty programme, which rewards guests with exclusive member rates and DISCOVERY Dollars for staying at OUTRIGGER, as well as more than 800 hotels in the GHA DISCOVERY portfolio.   Say aloha to unforgettable happenings and unparalleled hospitality at OUTRIGGER Kā‘anapali Beach Resort by booking a room today at: www.outrigger.com or through your preferred travel advisor.

  The most renowned island in the Gulf of Thailand is Koh Samui. It is Thailand’s second-largest island, after Phuket, located approximately 60km from the mainland and accessible by both air and sea. This slice of paradise is renowned for its palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves and mountainous rainforest. It’s also home to luxury resorts, posh spas, superb diving and a robust nightlife scene, amongst other things. To make the most of this oasis, we’ve put together the ultimate four-day guide, which will have you making the absolute best of your time here on land and sea, day and night.   DAY 1: ON LAND   Start your first full day with a visit to Wat Phra Yai, home to the famous Big Buddha, which sits majestically on the small rocky island of Koh Faan (connected to the main island via causeway). This golden, 12-metre-high seated Buddha statue was built in 1972 and remains one of the island’s most popular attractions. From here, make your way to Na Muang, two cascading waterfalls that prove Samui has more captivating water spots than beaches. Found inland about 12 kilometers south-east of Nathon Bay, they are reached by taking an easy walking path. The first waterfall, Na Muang 1, flows down into a pretty natural pool that provides a cool escape from the heat. About 30 minutes by foot further uphill is the smaller yet equally inviting Na Muang 2. Now that you’re cooled off, it’s time to eat! Head to Chaweng Night Market (from 5pm daily), where you can fill your belly with an array of local specialties: grilled chicken, fresh squid, sweet boiled chicken, sticky rice, smoothies and more. And for those of you that like shopping, this is also the spot; offering everything from T-shirts and sunglasses to wooden souvenirs and tattoos. Just make sure you haggle!   DAY 2: ON THE SEA   Wake up early and hit the high seas! Truly the best way to experience the natural splendor of Samui is by boat. Many of its most stunning vistas can only be appreciated from aboard ship. There are countless reputable local companies offering full- and half-day trips for island hopping, snorkeling, scuba diving and fishing. A typical tour will pick you up from your hotel at 8am and whisk you away to Bophut Pier. Approx. 90 min later you’ll arrive via speedboat at Koh Nang Yuan. The sandbar beaches here, formed by the ocean’s currents interacting with the three peaks of the island, are quite unique to the world. Their beauty will take your breath away. Enjoy snorkeling in clear water and a chance to encounter the most beautiful ocean life. Continue to Koh Tao (translates as Turtle Island, so named because of its shape) for a stop of lunch. Spend the afternoon snorkeling, sunbathing or just relaxing under a coconut tree. Return your hotel at around 5pm. After such a busy day, you’ll probably want to lie low, so it’s the perfect opportunity for dinner at the outstanding Waterline, an innovative fine-dining restaurant.   DAY 3: UNDER THE SEA   The lounge chair you’ve been eyeing beside the pool will have to wait, as you’re up and out early again today to make the most of everything Samui has to offer below sea level. With clear blue waters, warm currents, exotic tropical fish, colorful corals and some of the most impressive dive sites in Asia, it’s no surprise that the Gulf of Thailand is an extremely popular destination for both experienced divers and those wanting to take up the sport. Short, accredited dive courses are readily available and prices are very reasonable compared to most countries. There’s a wide range of dive shops offering all levels of instruction, conducted in the language of your choice. One of the obvious reasons dive courses are so popular here is the great locations from which they are conducted ­– right by the beach in the shallow, calm waters off Coral Cove. Most diving for novices is only a short boat ride away, while world-class sites for more advanced divers can be found less than two hours away at places like Ang Thong National Marine Park. Whether you’re considering trying the sport for the first time or are a serious enthusiast, you won’t be disappointed by either the quality or quantity of diving around Samui, a diver’s paradise!   DAY 4: UNDER THE STARS   Today you are free to do as you wish, be it a spa session, elephant trek, cooking class, lounge by the pool or spot of souvenir shopping. But come sundown, you will need to put on your glad rags and hit the town! Koh Samui nightlife is famous for being amongst the best in Thailand, if not the world. Koh Phangan’s full moon parties are legendary and continue to attract an endless stream of visitors keen to party on the soft white sand until the break of day. The variety and array of cafes, restaurants, bars, clubs and discos is also a major pull, bringing a lively young crowd of revelers. There is a degree of subtle difference to the nightlife in Koh Samui. Alongside the shanty bars selling buckets of cheap local whiskey are sophisticated gourmet restaurants, classic Thai dancing shows, live muay thai boxing bouts and the country’s (in)famous transgender cabaret extravaganzas. There really is something for everyone! Conveniently, most of it happens around Chaweng, so you don’t have to roam far. All along the Beach Road you will see bustling sois (streets) leading off into warrens of bars and pubs. Ground zero for all this unadulterated enjoyment are sois Green Mango and Reggae.   Plan your stay at Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort today.   This Expert Hub article is produced in association with  Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort.

  A Thai vacation is the ultimate way to tie a bow around the holidays. With Thailand being back open for fun, sun and relaxation once more, there are plenty of reasons to wind down by making your holidays heat up in this beautiful, natural country. Famed for its beaches, palaces and welcoming atmosphere, Thailand is fully encompassed in the tropics to deliver diverse ecosystems that will leave you breathless.   Here are our five favorite reasons to visit Thailand right now!     Reason #1: The Temples   Thailand has more than 40,000 temples. While some are ethereal ruins, others are active temples. These serene spots often feature larger-than-life statues and structures. Wherever you're staying in Thailand, stunning temples are likely to be nearby. Check out the world-famous Big Buddha of Phuket and Thailand's other must-see temples like Wat Chalong, Wat Khao Rang, Wat Phra Thong and more.   Reason #2: The Silk Markets   Something that most people don't know until they visit Thailand is that this tropical paradise is home to some of the best silk in the world. The Ban Tha Sawang Silk Weaving Village is a must-visit spot close to the beautiful town of Surin where you can explore and find unique gifts to bring home. This tourist-friendly attraction allows guests to watch how high-quality silk products are made by hand by skilled artists.   Reason #3: The Elephants   Elephants are considered sacred in Thailand! Tourists immediately notice that elephant statues, artwork and symbols are displayed everywhere. Thai culture celebrates the elephant as the symbol of good fortune, and there are opportunities to visit elephant sanctuaries for visitors seeking to have close-up views at these gorgeous creatures in person, too.   A new focus sweeping through Thailand is on ethical elephant sanctuaries that provide an educational and more hands-off experience for tourists. Thanks to these efforts, visitors can now interact with elephants in ways that are much kinder. These places rescue and rehabilitate elephants that have been retired from the logging and tourism industries. At Outrigger, we completely support these efforts both in Phuket and Koh Samui through our GHA Discovery experiences. We encourage you to visit one of these sanctuaries and watch elephants as they happily wander around and socialize.   Reason #4: The Mango Sticky Rice   Yes, everyone who comes to Thailand falls in love with mango sticky rice. Considered the official dessert of Thailand by many, this delectable treat is found in nearly every restaurant. Made using rice blended with fresh mango and coconut milk, this traditional dessert of Southeast Asia can be eaten with both hands and spoons.   Reason #5: The Snorkeling   There's nothing in the world like snorkeling in Thailand! Stay and play near Khao Lak in southern Thailand for easy excursions to the Similan Islands. Most snorkelers spot dolphins and sea turtles as they tour the waters surrounding the islands. Any snorkelers who aren't lucky enough to catch candid glimpses of some beautiful turtles can make up the difference with a visit to the Royal Thai Navy Third Fleet Turtle Nursery in Khao Lak. Featuring turtles from infancy to adulthood, this sanctuary provides education and "turtle encounters" with an emphasis on preparing turtles for release into the wild. Or, find a secluded beach in Phuket.   This Expert Hub article is produced in association with Outrigger Hotels & Resorts.  Travelers seeking the natural beauty of exotic Thailand now have three more reasons to visit this jewel of the tropics at three world-class resort properties in Thailand: Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort, Outrigger Khao Lak Beach Resort and Outrigger Surin Beach Resort.