Speaking about the group’s journey, post-pandemic recovery, the growing importance of India, and future expansion plans, Benjawan Meksakul, AVP, Regional Sales & Marketing, Banyan Group, shares how Banyan Tree continues to grow with purpose—putting people, place and planet at the heart of its hospitality philosophy.
By Priyanka Saxena Ray
Q: How have the last few years been for Banyan Tree Group?
A: The past three years have been extremely exciting. About three years ago, we rebranded from Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts to Banyan Tree Group to better reflect the diversity of our businesses—hotels, resorts, residences, real estate, golf courses and integrated destinations like Laguna. Two years ago, we celebrated our 30th anniversary, and last year marked a major milestone as we reached 100 hotels globally.
Q: What made the 100-hotel milestone especially meaningful?
A: Our 100th hotel was Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree in Singapore, which was very special. Our founder is Singaporean, so after 30 years, opening a flagship property in Singapore felt like a homecoming for the brand.
Q: How did 2024 and 2025 perform post-COVID?
A: Performance varied by destination, but overall, it was very strong. Looking at my portfolio—Thailand, Indonesia, Maldives and Laos—Thailand has been booming post-COVID. Properties such as Angsana Laguna Phuket and Cassia Phuket recorded their best years since opening. Maldives also recovered early and strongly.
Q: How important is the India market for Banyan Tree Group?
A: India is a very important source market. Indian outbound travel has evolved significantly—from MICE-focused travel earlier to luxury weddings, family celebrations, anniversaries and milestone events today. We’ve seen growth not just in groups but also FIT travellers. Destinations like Thailand and Maldives continue to resonate strongly with Indian guests.
Q: Sustainability has always been core to Banyan Tree. How does that translate on-ground?
A: Sustainability is foundational to who we are. Instead of cutting trees to build hotels, we believe in growing trees as part of the hotel. From turtle conservation in Koh Samui to coral protection through marine labs in the Maldives—where we were pioneers—we focus on education, preservation and responsible operations. We want guests to learn from nature and local communities through travel.
Q: How do you see Banyan Tree Group evolving over the next five years?
A: We will continue to grow, but consciously. Growth is not about numbers alone—it’s about impact, wellbeing, community connection and meaningful experiences. We want every new project to align with our values.
Q: Any upcoming projects you can share?
A: We have new projects in Thailand, Maldives and Indonesia, and Indonesia in particular continues to offer strong growth potential. Bali, for example, is emerging as a key destination, with unique concepts like Banyan Tree Escape—designed to bring guests closer to nature.
Q: What defines the Banyan Tree experience today?
A: Purposeful travel. We believe travel should connect people to nature, culture and themselves—offering experiences that are enriching, sustainable and truly memorable.
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