Bangkok, 27 November 2023 – Asset World Corp (AWC) has signed a hotel management agreement with IHG Hotels and Resorts to develop two new luxury hotels, the InterContinental Chiang Rai Golden Triangle Resort and Kimpton Chiang Rai Golden Triangle, thus bringing world-renowned brands to Chiang Rai in Northern Thailand. The new hotels are expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Mrs. Wallapa Traisorat, AWC Chief Executive Officer and President, said “This partnership with IHG will put Chiang Rai top of mind for millions of local and global tourists. It aligns with our vision to transform Chiang Rai into a luxury ecotourism destination. Both hotels will be developed with more than 1.5 billion Baht of investment.”
InterContinental Chiang Rai Golden Triangle Resort, a new development, and Kimpton Chiang Rai Golden Triangle, a combination of new development and renovation of The Imperial Golden Triangle Resort, will be set at the Golden Triangle in Chiang Saen district.
This location, amidst the northern mountains and bordered by the Mekong and Ruak Rivers, a natural border between Thailand, Myanmar, and Lao PDR., is a testament to AWC’s strategy of developing quality assets in high potential locations and partnering with globally recognised brands.
The properties mark AWC’s and IHG’s first development in Chiang Rai and support AWC’s long-term GROWTH-LED strategy to develop quality assets in high potential locations, while diversifying its hospitality and lifestyle portfolio.
The development will be AWC’s second InterContinental hotel in Northern Thailand after the recent successful opening of InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping, and AWC’s third Kimpton following Kimpton Pattaya and Kimpton Hua Hin.
Mr. Rajit Sukumaran, Managing Director, South East Asia and Korea, IHG Hotels and Resorts, said “We are excited to expand our footprint in Thailand with AWC. On the back of the recent opening of InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping, this signing is another milestone in IHG’s and AWC’s more than 10-year relationship and will provide travellers with the opportunity to explore more of Northern Thailand.”
InterContinental Chiang Rai Golden Triangle Resort will feature traditional Lanna-inspired architecture with 68 private pool and garden villas, while Kimpton Chiang Rai Golden Triangle will offer 68 contemporary Lanna-style suites, some with plunge pools and pool access.
Both properties will provide a choice of eight food and beverage outlets, including the 110-seat Glasshouse Cafe and Restaurant by the Mekong River that will resemble the architecture of the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century with a contemporary interior design.
The hotels will also offer new guest experiences along the river with a lounge on a cruise boat symbolising the Western entry via river travel during the late industrial era.
The cruise on the Mekong River will take guests on a journey to visit local communities along the Mekong River and neighbouring Myanmar and Lao PDR. The boat will serve afternoon tea with Thai and local desserts, and will also have a bar and restaurant showcasing the Northern Thai influence, featuring a blend of Eastern and Western art.
The two new hotels will feature wellness destinations with Thai herbal treatments, swimming pools, fitness centres, and cultural tours.
The project also includes a commitment to sustainable practices, by collaboration with the Mae Fah Luang Foundation under Royal Patronage to support local communities, along with the “AWC Stay to Sustain”, a sustainable initiative to invite hotel guests to participate by conserving and restoring trees in community forests.
InterContinental Chiang Rai Golden Triangle Resort and Kimpton Chiang Rai Golden Triangle also aim to achieve LEED or WELL certification, aligning with AWC’s green building standards.
The hotels will also have a branch of The GALLERY, AWC’s social enterprise offering products that are uniquely crafted by Thai designers, artists, and communities.