Interview : Siradej Donavanik, Vice President Operations and Development, Dusit International

Siradej Donavanik, Vice President Operations and Development, Dusit International talks with TravelMole about the integration of the prestigious historical The Strand Yangon in Myanmar as well as global expansion perspectives for Dusit International. 

Dusit has recently taken over the management of The Strand Yangon. What are your first priorities for such a historic property?

Siradej Donavanik – For a property with such cultural and historical importance, we don’t see ourselves as just taking over the hotel. In contrary, we see ourselves as custodians. The Strand has a legacy of almost 150 years, and preserving that heritage and its values is something we take very seriously. Our goal is to maintain that legacy while operating it as a successful business that can benefit future generations of hoteliers.

How does Dusit’s hospitality philosophy fit with a heritage hotel like The Strand?

Siradej Donavanik – I would speak more about “legacy” than “heritage” which could “scare” a bit younger generations of travelers. Our Thai hospitality is naturally warm and gracious and that is the spirit in which we would also want to do things at The Strand. I believe, that kind of approach would fit perfectly.

We want to preserve the character of the hotel while creating a sustainable business model that serves both guests but also Myanmar hospitality industry. Education and long-term impact are part of our DNA, dating back to when my grandmother founded our education division more than 30 years ago.

Is this your first hotel with such a long history?

Siradej Donavanik – It is our first property that is more than 70 years old, but we have already experience with historic buildings. Legacy is important, but it can be a double-edged sword. If you focus only on heritage, you risk missing future trends and innovation. We want to balance tradition with creativity and appeal to younger travelers as well.

When will Dusit International officially take over the hotel, and what changes are planned?

Siradej Donavanik – We expect to take over in the second quarter of the year, around April. The hotel will continue to be called The Strand and will be part of the Dusit Collection. Our intention is not to redesign everything but to preserve the property’s identity. Some elements will be upgraded, but overall it will remain true to its context and history.

What will Dusit bring to the hotel?

Siradej Donavanik – We will bring our operational expertise and Thai hospitality. That includes improvements in food and beverage, wellness, and training. Our wellness approach goes beyond spa treatments — it includes mindfulness and a more holistic experience. We want to deliver immersive, 360-degree hospitality while continuing the Strand’s legacy. The Strand, as you know it, is very much the pride and the joy for the industry in Yangon. And we want that light to continue, to shine as bright as ever.

Will Thai influences be introduced without overshadowing local culture?

Siradej Donavanik – Absolutely. Thai hospitality embraces other cultures. Everywhere we operate — from Dubai to Japan and India — we bring our hospitality style while respecting local identity. There is no conflict in doing that. We believe strongly in Myanmar’s long-term tourism potential despite current challenges.

How important is training and education in this project?

Siradej Donavanik – It is essential. We operate leading hospitality schools in Thailand and train thousands of students, including many from Myanmar. We want to provide education and professional opportunities that allow people to return home and work in the industry. We hope that our vision is indeed to help to empower future generations of local hoteliers as well. And that is something that comes from our nature, our core values.

Will Dusit seek more heritage properties such as the Strand around the world ?

Siradej Donavanik – The Strand is a once-in-a-lifetime project, and we are very proud of it. In the meantime, we will continue looking for unique properties that fit our brand “Dusit Collection”. The brand was launched in 2024, and we look now at taking over some unique properties bringing a very interesting history, narrative and storytelling. Such as a recently signed hotell on Lake Toya in Hokkaido in Japan, designed by architect Kengo Kuma. We have several other projects in development worldwide.

Are you looking to expand into Europe?

Siradej Donavanik – Yes, we definitely are exploring opportunities. We signed a joint venture with a French family office last year and are currently looking at a property in Paris. We hope to announce flagship projects in France and Germany in a near future.

Could many Dusit brands fit into the European market ?

Siradej Donavanik – Definitely. I am sure that our wellness brand Devarana would perform very well in Europe, as demand for holistic wellness is strong. Our lifestyle brand ASAI would also suit dynamic secondary cities such as Bordeaux, Toulouse, Düsseldorf, or Amsterdam.

Dusit International had an exceptional year 2025 in terms of new hotels management. Will expansion continue at the same pace in 2026?

Siradej Donavanik – Last year we indeed signed 24 hotels, the highest number in our history, and nearly 50 over the past three years. Going forward, we want to be more strategic. We are not trying to compete with global giants — we want to remain an independent brand with a strong identity and unique value proposition.

At ITB Berlin 2026, Dusit International will be present with two properties : Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket (Hall 26-200) and Dusit Thani Maldives (Hall 5.2-115).

Related News Stories:  Dusit International sets new record with 24 hotel signings in 2025