SINGAPORE—The Mantra Samui Resort is about to undergo a major transformation. The boutique hotel on Thailand’s Koh Samui is not only gaining a new owner, it’s getting an entirely new hospitality group at the helm.
Louis T Collection (Louis T) recently acquired the property as the first milestone in its plan to build a portfolio. The company will develop Mantra into its first Louis T hotel.
The hotel group draws its inspiration from Louis T. Leonowens, a traveler who moved to Bangkok in 1862 as a boy when his mother took the role of governess to the King Mongkut’s children. Today, Louis is remembered as a Siamese royal military captain, private timber-trading magnate and luxury hotelier.
“Given that our company history is linked to Louis T. Leonowens, it makes sense that we chose to have our first property in Thailand, a place where Louis spent the most productive years of his life and where his company still thrives today,” said Adam Simkins, Louis T’s co-founder and board member of Louis T Leonowens (Thailand) Limited. “And of course, we see strong up-trends: Koh Samui is becoming an increasingly popular destination attracting tourists from many countries.”
Located on Koh Samui’s northern coast and close to Bophut beach, the future Louis T hotel is close enough to the island’s attractions, while far enough away to retain a sense of solitude within the verdant hills. The property overlooks the Gulf of Thailand and features an outdoor infinity pool with unobstructed views of dense coconut palms, a spa, an al fresco restaurant and accommodations.
A soft renovation will begin soon after the takeover. Louis T will give the property a facelift by leveraging its intergroup resources, from GETZ Building Solutions and William Montague, a hospitality furniture design and manufacturing company.
“Being both owner and operator, this property will not only be our first brand vehicle, but also serve as a proof of concept for many innovations that we want to carry out.” said Jing Zhou, senior director of strategic planning at Louis T. “We have got a gem in our hands, and we will spend some time to craft it into a nice piece of jewelry.”