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.

OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels has added another Hawaii resort to its portfolio. It welcomed Kauai Beach Resort & Spa into the fold with a special blessing. It is located in Lihue, Kauai, and spans 25 acres of beachfront property. Outrigger’s newest Hawaii resort features 350 guestrooms with ocean views. The acquisition strengthens its presence on the four largest Hawaiian Islands. Kauai Beach Resort & Spa was previously managed by the company in the 1990s. The transition was marked by a traditional Hawaiian blessing led by Kumu Blaine Kamalani Kia – who started his career with Outrigger 25 years earlier at the resort. "Outrigger feels the heartache of the Maui fires deeply. Many of our employees lost their homes and loved ones.” There is a certain healing in embracing new beginnings. Today's tying of the maile lei was about bringing people together," President Jeff Wagoner said.

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.

  It's time to talk about some beloved Waikiki eats. Anyone who has spent time in Waikiki knows how treasured the local eateries are. These are the spots where both visitors and locals come together to celebrate amazing food and good conversation with sunshine and salty ocean sprays still drying on their skin.   In this roundup, we are highlighting Hawaii food vloggers Amanda and Felix's favorite spots to eat in Waikiki.  If you're a fan of this duo, you already know that they usually focus on showing people where to get cheap eats, and we decided to focus on a few of their favorite Waikiki haunts for this special locals-love list.   Every spot that made the list is located right in the heart of Waikiki (and within walking distance to Waikiki Malia by Outrigger if you're looking for a low-key central home base with cool art and culture). Here's the foodie-approved list of five places to get your eat on in Waikiki.   Hawaiian Aroma Café at Waikiki Beachcomber   Known for its award-winning custom coffee roast that has earned a following for being the best coffee in Hawaii, local favorite Hawaiian Aroma Cafe dishes out yummy breakfast items like guava waffles, salted-caramel waffles and truffle waffles. There's also a drink menu full of made-for-poolside-sipping cocktails that combine the spirit of aloha with traditional old-world spirits. Hot drinks, iced drinks, colorful acai bowls, pastries and hearty paninis round out the menu.   Amanda and Felix Favorite: The turkey pesto panini made with housemade pesto.     Duke's Waikiki   The legendary Duke's Waikiki welcomed Amanda and Alex on a gorgeous evening just as the sun was setting over the eatery's ocean views. Duke's is known for its high-end seafood menu peppered with favorites like panko-crusted calamari, roasted Tristan lobster and coconut-ginger braised seafood. There's also plenty of food "from the land" like slow-roasted prime rib and filet mignon. The drink menu covers beers on tap, bottled beers, wines, bottled wines, cocktails and more.   Amanda and Felix Favorite: It's no surprise that the famed hula pie left Amanda and Felix nearly speechless. Featuring chocolate cookie crust, ice cream, hot fudge, toasted macadamia nuts and whipped cream, the hula pie was huge enough that Felix joked it must have been modeled after the iconic Diamond Head.     Hula Grill Waikiki   Hula Grill got on Felix and Amanda's radar because of its menu full of dishes made of locally sourced ingredients inspired by local fishermen, farmers and "ohana" (family). The duo decided to brunch by the water to enjoy the eatery's famed mimosas made with orange, guava, papaya and POG juices (and the Hula-Rita is another local fave).   Amanda and Felix Favorite: For Felix, the prime rib with fingerling potatoes and au jus, and for Amanda the lump crab benedict.     Appetito Waikiki   Where's the best place in Waikiki to enjoy hand-stretched Neapolitan pizza? Amanda and Felix headed to Appetito Waikiki to enjoy the eatery's famed kiawe-wood Naples-style pizza. The duo raved about the light crunch of their wood-fired pie. In fact, Amanda was so impressed by the ambiance and flavor offered by Appetito that she shared her surprise at the fact that it has managed to remain a favorite spot of locals without being discovered by hoards of travelers.   Amanda and Felix Favorite: The wood-fired pies (well, and pie companions like crab fettuccini, vanilla ice cream with an espresso shot (affogato) and matcha tiramisu).     Roy's Waikiki   During their visit to Roy's, Felix and Amanda shared that this eatery is their top pick for date night in Waikiki. Roy's is renowned for offering the freshest seafood and mouthwatering Hawaiian regional cuisine. The duo didn't leave without first relishing in Roy's famed chocolate molten lava cake and pineapple upside-down cake.   Amanda and Felix Favorite: The flying dragon roll, kiawe-wood baby-back ribs, misoyaki butterfish, macadamia-nut catch of the day and show-stopping European sea bass (yes, all of the above!). Satisfy Your Appetite for Paradise     Is it really a vacation if you don't have the best food of your life? Breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and date night at Waikiki's vlogger-approved favorites are within walking distance when you stay at the perfect-home-base, Waikiki Malia by Outrigger.   This Expert Hub article is produced in association with Outrigger Hotels & Resorts, Hawaii’s largest most diverse hospitality company.

  Let's talk beaches in Phuket, Thailand. Most visitors are familiar with the long lines of sun beds along Patong, Kata and Karon beaches. But there's more to Phuket’s beach culture. With an adventurous spirit, a set of wheels and a map of the island, you can discover some beach gems that will have you coming back for more. Here are four of Phuket’s best ‘secret’ beaches.     YA NUI BEACH   Nestled between Promthep Cape lookout and the long road back to Kata beach, lies Ya Nui beach. It is really two small beaches since the sand banks form two separate arcs split by a large rock formation. You will most likely be joined by some locals, who like to fish and picnic here. Keep an eye out for the loads of vibrant fish species. Kayaks, snorkel gear and umbrellas are available for rent.   LAEM SINGH BEACH   So many people rocket by this beach as they make their way into Kamala Beach from Surin Beach, it’s a crime. Head down the cliffside path and experience one of Phuket’s most beautiful beaches. The water is clean, clear and teeming with aquatic life. Found between Kamala and Surin beaches, Laem Singh is easy to find with hand-painted signs set at the roadside, where paid parking is available.     BANANA BEACH   A little further afield on the upper west coast after Bang Tao, Banana Beach is well worth the trip. Located a short way north of Trisara Resort, pull over when you see a hand-made sign signaling Banana Beach. You’ll find a short steep trail down to the water. Ample snorkeling opportunities and the scarcity of boat and jet-ski activity make this an ideal choice for laid-back beach connoisseurs.   SAI KEAW BEACH   Really just a continuation of Mai Khao beach, this undeveloped beach just goes and goes and goes some more. To reach Sai Keaw, you need to pass through the Phuket provincial checkpoint first, so it really does feel a world away from the hectic resort areas. While you are in the area, do check out the mangroves on the other side of the Sarasin Bridge which connects Phuket to the mainland.   Ready to explore Phuket and it's best beaches? Book your stay at Phuket's Outrigger Surin Beach Resort today and get started.   This Expert Hub article is produced in association with Outrigger Surin Beach Resort, in Phuket.  

  Dreaming of a little far-flung adventure? Visiting Fiji is the perfect answer—from excursions to explore unspoiled treasures deep in the South Pacific to 333 islands to choose from, many of which are untouched and uninhabited. We've made the planning easy with our round-up of the best of the best for every type of traveler, whether you want to amp up the adventure or wind down and relax.  

The Explorer

  Perfect Home Base: Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort, in the heart of the Coral Coast,  a.k.a. Fiji’s Adventure Gateway   There's a reason why Fiji was chosen as the filming location for shows and films like "Survivor" and "Cast Away." It has some of the most unspoiled rainforest ecosystems on the planet, and life won't be able to catch up with you when you disappear into the lushness of Fiji's dense South Pacific terrain.   Start on the beautiful main island of Viti Levu for exploration no matter which direction you travel: jungle hikes, river rafting, and city life.  Check out the eastern side's Tailevu Coast to experience a life lived among dirt roads and mangroves, and then head north to drive through sugarcane farmland peppered by small villages (try a village tour). Or take the two-pedal route on an electric bike tour through the untouched beauty of the Coral Coast.   For extinct volcano adventures, go to the highlands of Viti Levu where you'll find Fiji's highest point of Mount Victoria. Take a trail from the village of Navai to reach Victoria's 4,344-foot summit for a more advanced 4.5-kilometer hike (usually between three to six hours) where you'll be treated to undisrupted views reaching as far as Yasawa Island on crystal-clear days.   Want even more adventure? Try diving with bull sharks (and the occasional tiger shark) in Bega Lagoon, hanging in Kula Adventure Park (Fiji's only wildlife sanctuary), plus sand dune-ing, caving, zip lining and more.  

The Water Lover

  Perfect Home Base: Castaway Island, Fiji, in the Mamanuca Islands   While Fji's largest island of Vitu Levu, a.k.a. "Big Fiji," provides more than enough wonder, it's only the beginning of your great escape. Head to the Mamanuca Islands for some cool adventuring above and below the waves.   Fiji is known as the "Soft Coral Capital of the World," and you can snorkel among beautiful coral—try it at night to see neon coral lighting the abyss in electric shades of pink, purple and yellow. Dive with Castaway Island's PADI-certified dive center to swim among eccentric tropical fish, from clownfish and angelfish to enrapturing sea snakes. Enjoy coral planting and other conservation activities to make a beautiful impact during your stay. Try the Cloud 9 floating bar or a post-water-adventure cocktail at the world's first island beach club, Malamala.    

The Romantic

  Perfect Home Base: Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort, in the heart of the Coral Coast   Known as one of the top spots for destination weddings in the world, Fiji is for lovers, too. The spell of the Fijian sunset has also been known to cause more than a few couples to want to renew their vows.   Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort offers romantic, soulful vow renewals at the Bebe Chapel, with spectacular views across the Coral Coast to the stunning waves of the Pacific. March to strumming guitars as you say those special words all over again during a renewal ceremony on the reef lawn, beach, garden lawn or sunset lawn—and stay for extra-special honeymoon-ing! And don't get us started on the couples massage at Bebe Spa. It's nothing short of memorable.  

The Dreamer

  Perfect Home Base: Castaway Island, Fiji, in the Mamanuca Islands   Does your perfect holiday consist of sitting on a beach and reading a book? Fiji is the perfect destination to get away from it all and de-stress. Stay at Castaway Island to spend the whole day unplugged—no TVs, no wifi in bure, no phones—and postcard-perfect beaches, hammocks books, and board games that let you disconnect to reconnect with family and friends. Life moves slowly in Fiji. Locals are warm and friendly. And if you are looking for uncrowded and authentic, you've found it.  

Beautiful Fiji Is Waiting

  Bula is the way that Fijians wish you life when they greet you, and you can come experience this paradise no matter which kind of traveler you are. Book some of the year's best rates now—over 300 islands, thousands of experiences, and a million reasons to say yes are waiting!   This Expert Hub article is produced in association with Outrigger Hotels & Resorts.

  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.

  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. 

  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.