Manager Daily 360: Kata Group Resorts Rebrands 'Beyond Khaolak Resort' to 'ananea Beyond Khaolak', Debuting Flagship in Thailand
Kata Group Resorts, a leading seaside resort operator in Southeast Asia with over 45 years of service, announced a major rebranding of its flagship property, ‘Beyond Khaolak Resort’, to the new name ‘ananea Beyond Khaolak’. This move sets a new chapter for the Andaman sea retreat, aiming to resonate with the modern generation through its core concept of “Slow Glamour”—a relaxed lifestyle emphasizing simplicity and meaningful connections.
“Beyond Khaolak Resort,” a renowned property under the Beyond Resorts brand of Kata Group and recipient of numerous quality awards, reinforces its commitment to elevating destinations for modern travelers. This is achieved through the transformation into ‘ananea Beyond Khaolak’ in collaboration with “ananea,” a European-based Lifestyle Hotel brand designed for contemporary travelers seeking balance, inspiration, and meaningful connection.
The ananea brand is part of DERTOUR Hotels & Resorts, which belongs to the DER Touristik Group, a major German travel and hotel company and one of Europe’s largest tourism leaders (the same group behind hotel brands like Sentido, Calimera, Aldiana, and Playitas, etc.). ananea Beyond Khaolak is the first ananea property in Thailand and serves as the first Flagship Property in Southeast Asia.
Mr. Pramookpisit Achariyachai, CEO of Kata Group Resorts, stated:
“This is an exciting and significant step for Kata Group. The rebranding to ‘ananea Beyond Khaolak’ is not just a name change; it is about redefining the Khao Lak vacation experience to align with the needs of modern travelers who seek more meaningful and inspiring getaways. This collaboration with the globally strong ananea brand under DERTOUR Hotels & Resorts perfectly merges our over 45 years of Thai hospitality expertise with contemporary European lifestyle design. ananea Beyond Khaolak will not only be the first in Thailand but also a Flagship that will set a new standard for lifestyle resorts in the Southeast Asian region. We are ready to welcome all guests to this new home to create new memories together.”
The 'ananea' Philosophy
The name ‘ananea’ is derived from the Greek word “ananeosis,” meaning “renewal” or “new beginning.” It perfectly blends modern European design and Mediterranean minimalism with the warm charm of the Thai coast.
- Core Philosophy: “Slow Glamour,” offering a distinct ‘Barefoot Luxury’ experience where visitors can relax, find happiness in simplicity, and truly connect with nature and the people around them.
Resort Details and Features
- Location: Situated on the tranquil Pak Weep Beach in Phang Nga province, just an 80-minute drive from Phuket International Airport.
- Accommodation: An All-Villa Resort comprising 177 spacious units, ranging from Villa Garden to the Two Bedroom Pool Villa.
- Designed beautifully and environmentally consciously, embracing the “less is more” principle with natural materials and warm tones.
- Focus: “Adult Centric Design,” concentrating on amenities and activities that cater primarily to adult comfort and service, while also welcoming guests of all ages.
- Amenities: Kanda Spa, a fitness center, and a large swimming pool.
- Activities: Dedicated restorative activities such as “Mind-body & soul” and a variety of “Slow Entertainment” options.
- Dining: Diverse high-quality dining experiences with fresh local ingredients, including:
- Motown On Fire (Premium steakhouse)
- At Beach Bar and Restaurant (Casual atmosphere)
- @Beyond Café
Commitment to Sustainability
The vision of ananea Beyond Khaolak focuses on operating under the philosophy “Beyond a Good Place Is a Better Planet,” integrating “Slow Glamour” with a comprehensive commitment to regeneration and responsibility.
Mr. Sasit Sthavornvong, Assistant Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Kata Group Resorts, added:
“ananea Beyond Khaolak is not just a stay; it is a spiritual and physical renewal. We embrace the ‘Slow Glamour’ lifestyle where guests can connect with like-minded people through meticulously crafted facilities for perfect relaxation, communal spaces, mindful activities, and a ‘Barefoot Luxury’ experience. This is the true alternative for travelers seeking stylish simplicity, nature, and memorable moments by the sea.”
- Sustainability Goals: The vision seriously prioritizes the balance between luxury and environmental care, utilizing energy-saving technologies, systematic waste reduction, and water conservation, all directly aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030.
- Positive Impact Focus: Emphasizing responsible resource management (Responsible Consumption), preserving the invaluable marine and coastal ecosystems of Khao Lak (Life Below Water), and promoting sustainable community economic growth (Decent Work and Economic Growth).
