Ahead of World Manta Day on 17 September, Lynn Jula Kessler, the marine biologist at Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort offers the following advice on viewing the gentle giants.   1. When to go?   The manta rays’ migration pattern is dominated by the two monsoon seasons in the Maldives. From roughly December to May we find the mantas more frequently on the Western atolls. From June to November we mainly focus our search on the eastern sites. In South Ari Atoll around Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort we are extremely lucky to record year-round sightings of manta rays, as the animals don’t leave the atoll when the monsoon is changing (due to the geographical size of the atoll). Most manta sightings have been recorded between October and March.   2. Videos and books to enjoy in preparation   The Manta Trust has published a fantastic Guide to Manta and Devil Rays, which gives a great overview of all the manta species known to science, with helpful identification keys. For a more aesthetic book, I recommend the Secret Life of Manta Rays, co-authored by Dr. Guy Stevens, the founder of Manta Trust. This book has stunning photographs and interesting insights to the conservation efforts, plus it’s a beautiful coffee table book. As one of the biggest threats to manta ray populations around the world is overfishing, I can recommend Seaspiracy on Netlfix to familiarise yourself with overexploitation of the seas.   3. Choose a resort with a dedicated marine biologist or conservationist   Many resorts in the Maldives have a resident marine biologist or conservationist on site. With a bit of research, or by contacting the resort directly, you can find out how well the marine biologist is included in the resort’s ocean activities — and what other types of sustainability efforts are being pursued by the resort. At Outrigger we have our global nature conservation programme called OZONE — Outrigger ZONE.   4. Do a trial snorkel or scuba dive first   This is important, especially if you are not a strong swimmer or have little experience snorkelling in the ocean. Try snorkelling in a safe environment first. This way you can familiarise yourself with the equipment, practice being in open water, and increase the chance of a more enjoyable manta dive or snorkel excursion.   5. Be ready!   If you join a group trip make sure you listen to your guide’s instructions and are ready to get into the water at any moment!   6. Don’t get too close   Manta rays are very curious by nature. We try to stay at about a three to four metre radius. But due to mantas’ inquisitive nature they almost always break this distance themselves. The best advice I can give when it comes to manta ray encounters is to stay as calm as possible. The chances of the manta ray turning around and checking you out from up close are much higher when you remain calm at the surface rather than splashing around and chasing after it. However, don’t try to touch a manta ray. This will most likely end the encounter as mantas are not tactile animals and get scared when being touched.   7. Photography tip   Many times I have seen guests more focused on their camera settings than on the mantas themselves. If you are not familiar with your camera settings or you don’t want the extra pressure of having to take pictures as well as keeping up with mantas, leave the camera behind. However, action cameras such as GoPros are usually a very easy solution and make great footage and can be rented at the dive centre. If you join a trip with me you can be certain that I always carry a camera. I am more than happy to share my pictures.   8. Instagram channels to keep an eye on   If you are interested in manta rays, I recommend the channels from Manta Trust (@mantatrust) and the Maldivian Manta Ray Project (@maldianmantaproject). On the OZONE Maafushivaru (@ozone_maafushivaru) channel, I share information and insights on manta rays as well as other marine projects at Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort.   9. What is Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort doing on Manta Ray Day?   For World Manta Day we have a scheduled manta ray excursion for our guests. I will be joining as well, providing the participants with insights into the manta rays’ life and briefing everyone on proper in-water behaviour. All data collected during this trip will be submitted to the Maldivian Manta Ray Project and the Manta Trust, which is the world’s leading organisation on manta ray research and conservation.   10. Learn more about mantas and the responsible resort approach   Find out more about World Manta Day at WorldMantaDay.com. It’s a great resource with information links, a list of challenges facing mantas, upcoming events, and how to get inolved. The Outrigger OZONE page also gives useful insights on coral protection and propagation initiatives, reducing waste, guest education, and the best eco-activities for responsible travellers.

  Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa, a 22-acre oceanfront property on the Kona coast of Hawai‘i Island, is commemorating its one-year anniversary with savings up to 50% for Outrigger DISCOVERY members. Outrigger’s DISCOVERY loyalty program is free to join and provides special perks, exclusive rates, benefits and rewards. Travelers can book these unprecedented savings now through September 30 with travel dates through December 31, 2023.   “Our oceanfront Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa provides a captivating home base for travelers seeking everything from relaxation and romance to authentic Hawaiian culture and adventure,” said Steve Solberg, the property’s general manager. “We feel honored to have served our customers and local community this past year and are pleased to provide special half-off pricing in celebration of our first anniversary.”   Premium Amenities   Perched on Keauhou Bay’s lava-rock cliffs, Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa offers spacious, fully furnished rooms and private lānai (balcony) overlooking the Pacific Ocean. In addition, Club Room accommodations feature sizable suites with enhanced bath amenities and access to the Voyager 47 Club Lounge which offers complimentary daily breakfast and early-evening receptions with delicious pupu (appetizers), beer and wine.   Signature Experiences   As the largest island in the Hawaiian chain, the “Big Island” offers plenty of excursions for guests to enjoy any day of the week. From snorkeling with manta rays to touring a working coffee farm, hiking volcanos or whale watching, guests are assured memorable, authentic experiences.  

• Manta Ray Viewing – The Kona coast is one of the only places in the world where guests can view giant manta rays up close. Float on the ocean surface and watch as graceful, gentle mantas swim up from below to feed on the plankton-rich water.
• Feast & Fire Luau – Embrace an evening in paradise while dining under the stars. Immerse in the cultures of the islands and Kona’s newest lūʻau show from the award-winning cast of Traditions Hawai‘i and feast on a generous spread of delicious island fare.
• Cultural Tour – Discover Kona’s historic playground by taking part in a 90-minute cultural tour of the village of Kaukulaelae and Keauhou Bay and visit the birthplace of King Kamehameha III, the third king of the Kingdom of Hawai‘i.

  Oceanfront Dining on the Kona Coast   Experience the flavors of Hawai‘i at the resort’s restaurants and bars. Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa offers two island-inspired dining experiences with locally sourced food and drinks made from the freshest produce and seafood. Both Holua Poolside Bar and Lounge and Wailele Café offer fresh, sea-to-table meals along with Hawaiian-raised beef made with locally sourced ingredients.   Relax and Rejuvenate at Ho‘ola Spa   Keauhou Bay was once a place of rejuvenation for Hawaiian royalty, and today, guests can experience the royal treatment at the Ho‘ola Spa. Recharge and replenish mind, body and spirit with transformative Hawaiian spa treatments that use indigenous, botanically derived products.   Travelers can take advantage of this exclusive limited-time anniversary sale now by calling 1-866-326-6803 or visiting www.outrigger.com/kona using promo code ‘1YEAR.’

 

Completely renovated property on Koh Samui’s Lamai Beach in Thailand has been designed for families and couples

  The Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort officially opened 1 August with a group from Germany as its first guests. The fully renovated resort opened with 44 premium category rooms, with the remaining 102 superior rooms to open in November 2022.   Guests checking in from 1 August can enjoy the resort’s main lifestyle features, which are ideal for families, including the beachfront Edgewater beach club with three pool zones and a kids’ water slide. Guests can also enjoy the Outrigger’s signature Voyager 47 Club Lounge, the Coral Kids Club and game room, a fully equipped fitness centre and redesigned main lobby area.   Premium category rooms include 12 Club Garden rooms (57m²), 12 Lamai Garden Suites (70m²) and 20 Premier Lamai Garden Suites (80m²).   Depending on category, premium rooms feature spacious living quarters separate from the rest of the room, a four-poster bed, relaxing tropical decor and a luxurious marble bathroom with separate shower and bathtub.   All guests in premium rooms have exclusive Voyager 47 Club Lounge access with all-day non-alcoholic drinks, afternoon snacks and evening cocktails with the Chef’s tasting plate.   Every room in the resort has a balcony, French-style balcony or terrace. Each room blends contemporary design with soft-colonial accents.   “We are really excited by the whole Edgewater family beach club concept, which is the first of its kind in this part of the island,” said the resort’s General Manager, Leah Matters. “With the Voyager 47 Club and a colonial beach house feel throughout the property, Outrigger has created a truly memorable and unique beach holiday experience,” she said.   Outrigger took over the resort in July 2021. The redesign was led by Bangkok-based architectural firm and longstanding Outrigger design partner, Santhaya + Associates.   In November, an additional 102 superior rooms, an all-day dining restaurant and a fourth swimming pool will open. Each superior room will offer French doors opening onto a private balcony overlooking the resort gardens or swimming pool.   Outrigger has opened four properties in Asia in the last six months: the Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort, the Outrigger Khao Lak Beach Resort, the Outrigger Surin Beach Resort in Phuket and the Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort.   Outrigger has the aim of becoming the “Premier Beach Resort Company in the World”.

Outrigger has officially launched the Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort. The fully renovated resort opened with 44 premium category rooms, with the remaining 102 superior rooms set to open in November 2022. Guests can enjoy the resort’s main lifestyle features, which are ideal for families, including Edgewater beach club with three pool zones and a kids’ water slide. Guests can also enjoy the Outrigger’s signature Voyager 47 Club Lounge, the Coral Kids Club and games room, a fully equipped fitness centre and redesigned main lobby area. Premium category rooms include 12 Club Garden rooms (57m2), 12 Lamai Garden Suites (70m2) and 20 Premier Lamai Garden Suites (80m2). Depending on category, premium rooms feature spacious living quarters separate from the rest of the room, and a four-poster bed,. All guests in premium rooms have exclusive Voyager 47 Club Lounge access with all-day non-alcoholic drinks, afternoon snacks and evening cocktails. Every room in the resort has a balcony, French-style balcony or terrace. “We are really excited by the whole Edgewater family beach club concept, which is the first of its kind in this part of the island,” said the resort’s General Manager, Leah Matters. Outrigger took over the resort in July 2021. The redesign was led by Bangkok-based architectural firm and longstanding Outrigger design partner, Santhaya + Associates. In November, an additional 102 superior rooms, an all-day dining restaurant and a fourth swimming pool will open. Outrigger has opened four properties in Asia in the last six months: the Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort, the Outrigger Khao Lak Beach Resort, the Outrigger Surin Beach Resort in Phuket and the Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort.

  Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort is playing a key role in gathering and sharing information on whale sharks, manta rays and sea turtles with conservation groups in the Maldives.   The tracking and reporting process, led by the resort’s marine biologist, Lynn Jula Kessler, shows that populations of whale sharks and manta rays in the South Ari Atoll around Outrigger Maldives are stable or doing well. However, there is more concern about critically endangered sea turtles, which often get ensnared in fishing nets travelling between their nesting grounds in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.   On whale sharks, Outrigger Maldives is cooperating with the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme. Kessler and accompanying resort snorkelling guests collect data on whale shark sightings, noting any injuries, some of which are caused by collisions with boats.   This September, Kessler and Outrigger will join the #GentleToGiants initiative being run by the whale shark research team. The campaign aims to secure commitments from tourism businesses to adhere to whale shark encounter guidelines.   “Many of the whale sharks spotted in South Ari Atoll are juvenile males five to eight metres in length,” says Kessler. “The waters around here are like a boys’ high school for whale sharks,” she says.   Kessler also sends information on manta ray sightings to the Manta Trust, an NGO founded to protect manta rays globally. By sending underwater images of mantas to the trust, conservationists can track new pregnancies, injuries and overall population trends. Manta rays are classified as endangered. They are protected by law in the Maldives, which has the biggest recorded population of manta rays in the world.   "No matter how often I encounter manta rays, they always amaze me,” says Kessler. “Besides being unbelievably graceful, they are also very curious and intelligent. They can often be observed interacting with snorkellers and divers which makes the encounters even more magical."   Kessler gives presentations twice a week to Outrigger guests on manta rays, whale sharks, turtles, marine life and coral reef preservation in the South Ari Atoll.   In July, she conducted coral planting, assisted by guests, adding frames of new coral beneath a jetty at the resort to encourage the breeding of young corals and fish species.   Marine conservation and awareness building are a key part of Outrigger Maldives resort operations, all of which align with Outrigger’s ZONE (OZONE), the company’s long established global marine conservation and environmental care initiative.   Outrigger would like to hear from journalists who are interested in the OZONE project, marine conservation and sustainable guest activities.

Learn More. Earn More. Reward Yourself and Your Clients

  This webinar will help you better sell Outrigger Hotels and Resorts, as well as condos, throughout all the major Hawaiian islands.       Outrigger’s multi-branded portfolio includes Outrigger® Resorts, OHANA Hotels by Outrigger®, Hawaii Vacation Condos by Outrigger®, Kapalua Villas Maui and Honua Kai Resort & Spa Maui while also managing select properties from top international hotel brands including Embassy Suites by Hilton®, Best Western® and Hilton Grand VacationsTM.

  In the last 10 months, Outrigger Hospitality Group has added five properties throughout the Pacific and Indian Ocean to its global portfolio: Outrigger Khao Lak Beach Resort, Outrigger Surin Beach Resort and Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort in Thailand; the five-star Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort; and Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa on Hawaii Island. To support its long-term growth strategy, the premier beach resort brand has announced several key senior-level appointments:  

• Tony Pedroni, Vice President Operations - APAC
• Jason Zvatora, Vice President Commercial Strategy - APAC
• Mike Shaff, Senior Vice President Operations, The Americas
• Jenna Villalobos, Senior Vice President Commercial Strategy

  “As Outrigger continues its strategic expansion, getting our toes in the sand with new beach resorts across the globe, having the right leadership team is imperative,” said Jeff Wagoner, President and CEO Outrigger Hospitality Group. “From operations to revenue management, I have full confidence in the expertise of Mike, Jenna, Tony and Jason to navigate Outrigger towards our mission of being the premier beach resort brand in the world.”   As Vice President Operations – APAC, TONY PEDRONI will oversee and direct all hotel operations in the Asia Pacific region. Pedroni first joined Outrigger in 2013 as General Manager of the then Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort. He is an experienced global hospitality professional, having served as General Manager for JW Marriott in Thailand; at the Renaissance in South Korea and the Waiohai Beach Club a Marriott Vacation Club Resort in Hawaii, as well as hotel management positions in Kuwait, the United Kingdom and Washington, DC.   Pedroni rejoined Outrigger last year as Area General Manager - Thailand when Outrigger became owner and manager of three Outrigger Resorts in Khao Lak, Surin Beach and Koh Samui. Pedroni has led the renovation of all three properties.   As Vice President Commercial Strategy – APAC, JASON  ZVATORA returns to Outrigger and is based in Australia. Zvatora is responsible for driving APAC performance by leading and driving top-line revenue strategies, staying ahead of market trends and directing the property commercial teams to success.   As Senior Vice President Operations, The Americas, MIKE SHAFF will lead both the hotels and resorts operations for The Americas region with a focus on creating positive guest experiences through programming, renovations and repositioning, while driving strong financial performance to ownership. Shaff also assumes oversight of the Hawaii Vacation Condos by Outrigger division.   As Senior Vice President Commercial Strategy, JENNA VILLALOBOS will develop the global commercial strategy for both corporate and property, focusing on the disciplines of revenue strategy, global contact centre, CRM (customer relationship management), business intelligence and website technology.

  Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort has earned the title of “Best Luxury Hideaway Resort in Maldives, 2022”, in this year’s Luxury Lifestyle Awards.   The visually stunning property comprises a collection of 81 luxury villas in five categories including beach, pool and duplex accommodations, as well as coveted overwater bungalows.   “Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru sparkles with breathtakingly beautiful nature alongside elegant accommodations. We are so proud that our delightful hideaway has already been recognised by the experts from Luxury Lifestyle Awards,” said John Allanson, General Manager of the property.   “The Outrigger Way commitment to authentically caring for our guests, alongside the bewitching allure of our setting has been apparent to patrons and judges alike,” he said.   Known for its uninterrupted views of white sandy beaches and a seemingly endless turquoise lagoon, Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort recently underwent an extensive modernisation. It is now poised to be among the Maldives’ most sought-after vacation experiences.   Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru has all of the amenities high-end guests expect: private seaplane transfers, a diverse array of quality food and beverage outlets, plush full-spa service, a chic retail boutique, vow renewals, PADI dive centre, abundant watersports, and more.   Marine conservation and awareness building are a key part of the resort operations, which align with Outrigger’s ZONE (OZONE), the company’s long established global marine conservation and environmental care initiative.   The resort’s marine biologist, Lynn Kessler, leads guests on snorkel and scuba trips each day. She collects data on manta rays, whale sharks and turtles, which helps Maldives-based NGOs in their marine conservation work. She also gives marine wildlife presentations to Outrigger guests twice a week and is connected with a coral planting program.   “Being environmentally responsible and leading by example is key to The Outrigger Way - caring for our hosts, our guests and our place,” said Mr Allanson.   Expert judges at Luxury Lifestyle Awards took these factors, and more, into consideration before giving the award.

  From romance to some of the most epic coastlines in the world (think cerulean seas on one side contrasted by lush vegetation on the other), Mauritius is a traveler's gem nestled 2,000 miles off the southeast coast of Africa. Enjoy a little adventure—swimming with dolphins! kitesurfing! culture and dance!—or relax into romance in waterfront villages.   1. Climb Le Morne Brabant Mountain   A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Le Morne Brabant Mountain, is spectacular for its natural beauty and historical significance. Once a fortress to shelter escaped slaves through the 18th and early 19th centuries, this cultural landscape is a storied symbol of the universal ideals of individual freedom and the struggle for liberty.   Take the 7 km hiking trail to pass by verdant vegetation and cave croppings before the summit gives way to views of the Mauritius lagoon and the surrounding Indian Ocean islands.   Insider Tip: Hiking with a guide is recommended, as the second part of the hike involves bouldering, which is much easier with a guide.   2. Island-Hop by Boat   No trip to Mauritius would be complete without venturing to the beautiful surrounding islands. Head to those off the southeast coast like Île de la Passe, Ile aux Flammant, Ile Phare, and Ile des Deux Cocos for untouched beaches and snorkeling in crystal-clear lagoons.   Insider Tip: Try a private catamaran cruise with live music and fresh-catch cuisine.   3. Sample the Street Food   Mauritian street food brings a unique decadence, from dhal puri (split-pea pancakes) filled with herbs to gateaux piments (fried chili cakes). Another street market staple: the roti chaud, a flavorful, curry-filled flatbread.   Insider Tip: Try the very Mauritian bean curry-filled dhal puri for a local-love favorite.   4. Swim with Dolphins   Adventure is said to be a great aphrodisiac and as one of the most romantic places in the world, Mauritius is the perfect place to explore your adventurous side, too.   One of the must-see's in Mauritius: swimming with dolphins. Take a boat tour out, and then put on snorkeling gear and dip into the clear turquoise waters to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures.   Insider Tip: Check out Outrigger Mauritius's Dolphin Tours for up to four people, including swimming with dolphins, snorkeling, snacks and drinks.     5. Try a Passion Fruit Mojito   One of the top places to stay on the island is the beachfront Outrigger Mauritius in Bel Ombre. You'll be surrounded by coastal beauty—and excellent taste. The Plantation Club onsite restaurant is known for its Mauritian fusion cuisine and sugarcane field views. One of the classic favorites is the Passion Fruit Mojito, a mocktail made with fresh passion fruit puree, fresh lime, mint leaves and a splash of sprite.   Insider Tip: Experience the iconic taste of Mauritian rum with a post-dinner cocktail at the Rum Room (reservations required).     6. Go Kitesurfing   With its year-round tropical climate and stunning turquoise waters, Mauritius is one of the top destinations in the world for watersports—and kitesurfing is among the favorites. Whether you're just getting started on a twintip board or ready to start jumping, the reliable winds and range of both perfectly flat waters and world-class waves make it the ideal spot for all levels.   Insider Tip: First time? Try a lesson with KiteGlobing in partnership with Outrigger Mauritius, with private, semi-private, and family kitesurfing lessons available from experienced instructors that are VDWS certified (or equivalent).   7. Roadtrip along the Wild South Coast   The southern coastal road in Mauritius is one of the most scenic routes in the world. After a morning hike at the aforementioned Le Morne Brabant Mountain, head a few kilometers south for your first road trip stop at Maconde, a famous curved patch of road with an iconic viewpoint overlooking the Indian Ocean. Next, stop by the quaint village of Baie du Cap, and then stop by a few of the top beaches, including St. Felix and Gris Gris. For top kitesurfing (or watching!), check out the famous Pointe d'Esny, and then finish off the trip with a seaside stroll (and maybe a little fish curry) along the Mahebourg waterfront.   Insider Tip: Try a little more adventure with a helicopter ride to see the iconic "underwater waterfall," a magical illusion of sand and water just off the coast of Le Morne.   For Mauritius exploration, come soon and stay in the heart of the southern coast at the five-star Outrigger Mauritius Beach Resort—the perfect jumping-off point for must-see adventures!   This Expert Hub article is produced in association with Outrigger Hotels & Resorts.

 

Outrigger’s ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ campaign includes coral planting, mangrove propagation, marine education awareness and more. 

  To go beyond World Oceans Month, which started 8 June, Outrigger Resorts has kicked off 11 weeks of environmental actions, informally called ‘Ocean’s Eleven’, which will run to 31 August across its nine flagship properties.   Outrigger’s Asia Pacific resorts, including Fiji, Thailand, Mauritius, Maldives and Hawaii, are hosting multiple events from coral planting to fish-house making to beach and marine clean-ups and mangrove tree planting. For guests less willing to take the plunge, there will be in-room videos, kids' club activities and presentations on manta rays, whale sharks, turtles and coral reef conservation.   ‘Ocean's Eleven’ is an extension of Outrigger’s ZONE (OZONE), the company’s global conservation initiative that provides enriching experiences for Outrigger guests, hosts and local communities with an emphasis on healthy oceans and coral reefs.   Examples of the marine conservation campaign by Outrigger include:  

• Phuket – following beach cleaning on 8 June by the hosts of Outrigger Surin Beach Resort and Outrigger Khao Lak Beach Resort, the team joined mangrove tree planting at Mai Khao beach in Phuket, 13 June.
• Koh Samui – the Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort staff collaborated with Trash Heroes Koh Samui in its weekly clean-up efforts around the island’s beaches; staff also assisted the Bantai Crab Bank in their catch and release programme which releases baby crabs back into the ocean.
• Maldives – led by Outrigger Maafushivaru Maldives Resort in-house marine biologist Lynn Kessler, Outrigger will collect data on manta rays and whale sharks for local conservation NGOs; she is also working with ORP a sea turtle protection group that also carries out underwater clean ups of man-made debris; Ms Kessler will be giving marine biology presentations twice a week for guests. And to raise awareness — and for fun – Outrigger is offering guests a Blue Ocean Martini, made of vodka, martini and Blue Curacao.
• Mauritius – beach cleaning at Outrigger Mauritius with local school children in August when a mobile marine educational centre called Bis Lamer will be present at the resort throughout the month. On 8 June there were ocean awareness trips on a glass bottom boat for kids who also joined in World Ocean Day ‘edutainment’ games on shore.
• Fiji – there will be a round-the-island beach clean up 16 June at Castaway Island, Fiji and fish house making on 23 June.
• Hawaii – hosts and guests at Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort and Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort will participate in a Sustainable Coastlines Festival Cleanup, taking place 18 June; Outrigger will also hold its 6th Annual OZONE Day at Waikiki Aquarium, with many educational activities for families, 25 June.

  These are just a highlight of activities. Others will be added between mid June and the end of August.   “As owners and operators of beach resorts from Mauritius to Hawaii, Outrigger has a front-row seat to the link between healthy oceans and healthy communities,” said Monica Salter, Outrigger’s VP of global communications and social responsibility.   “The goal for ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ – 11 weeks of marine action and awareness raising – is to inspire both guests and hosts to take individual action towards a sustainable lifestyle. This will hopefully make a positive impact for the planet beyond our almost three-month intensive period of action,” she said.   Further information: www.Outrigger.com/sustainablesummer

  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.

  All is calm on Kauai—and being reunited with paradise has never felt so good. Whether you're planning to stay on Kauai or do a little island hopping, if you're looking for laid-back, lush adventure Kauai is the perfect next destination. From more secluded finds to iconic must-see spots, Kauai has so much magnificent nature to explore. Here are our top five things to do now on the gorgeous "Garden Island."   #1 Trek the Pier at Hanalei Bay    A popular landmark, the Hanalei Pier was originally built in 1882. However, its most recent version is just a few years old. The pier was used for many years as a loading point for sugar ships. Today, the shallow area near the pier is a popular spot for family swimming with a nice mix of hot and cool water where the pier meets the ocean, and the pier attracts everyone from kayakers to those who like to fish.     #2 Go Wild at Wailua Falls   With this excursion, you're stepping into a piece of television history. These beautiful 173-foot falls located on the Wailua River were featured in the opening credits for "Fantasy Island" back in the day. This is a magical setting where you can pack along your own picnic basket and umbrella for a private lunch in paradise.     #3 Visit the Koloa Rum Company    Featuring a taproom and shop, this vibrant and welcoming distillery—this is the first licensed distillery on the island of Kauai—is the perfect spot to sip some island sunshine straight into your soul. Koloa also offers rare treats like rum fudge sauce, cakes, jellies, jams, syrups and more. Make sure to book your tour ahead of time to confirm availability.   #4 Explore the Princeville Botanical Gardens   You'll be convinced that the Garden of Eden is real when you step foot inside the Princeville Botanical Gardens for a walk through paradise. Located on Kauai's north shore, this beautiful estate is owned locally by the Robertson family. It features incredible tropical landscaping that flows into two steep valleys—and taking a chocolate tour is a must. The treats to collect along the way include homegrown honey, fresh fruit samples and homespun chocolates. You'll also learn the history and folklore behind popular native Hawaiian greenery. Book your tour ahead of time to confirm availability.   #5 Hang Around Old Koloa Town    Old Koloa Town is a plantation-era village that is alive with lovely shops, restaurants and historical landmarks. It's a great place to sample some Kona coffee, munch on some Hawaiian shaved ice, snag some locally made soaps, pick up some authentic pearl earrings to take home and soak up what small-town life looks like in paradise. You'll find little tidbits of history celebrating Koloa's status as the home of Hawaii's first successful sugar mill peppered throughout your journey.   This Expert Hub article is produced in association with Hawaii Vacation Condos by Outrigger, offering the perfect Kauai home base—from luxurious oceanfront enclaves to charming cottage-style condos.