Old City location for first of new brand

The Thai property development company Tanayong has appointed newly established InVistion Hospitality to create their new boutique hotel brand, U Hotels and Resorts. 10 hotels and resorts will be developed within the next 5 years in Thailand, Laos and Cambodia. Each property will have no more than 100 guest rooms and suites, and will be positioned as “niche accommodation”. The first development under the new brand name will be the 41 room U Chiang Mai, situated on Rajchadamnoen Road in the Old City, scheduled to open by the middle of 2008.

Mr. Jonathan Wigley, Managing Director of InVision Hospitality; the freshest management, consultancy and advisory services company and Mr. Kavin Kanjanapas, Managing Director of Tanayong Public Co. Ltd.; one of the largest residential and commercial property development and investment companies in Thailand announces their new expansion plan for hospitality development and a new bijoux deluxe hotel and resort brand.

With a large land bank for residential and property development, Tanayong also plans new acquisitions to build a deluxe brand of hotels and resorts as part of its future growth. The mission is to grow the brand portfolio to 10 hotels/resorts in 5 years within Thailand focusing on Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Kanchanaburi, Phuket, Samui, Krabi, Khao Yai, Rayong, Bangkok and three locations outside of Thailand including Luang Prabang in Laos, Phnom Phen and Siem Riep in Cambodia. Tanayong has appointed InVision Hospitality to create the brand.

Tanayong’s vision is to create an interesting, uncomplicated bijoux deluxe hotel and resort brand that is a stimulating blend of local heritage and design accents that pair with modern amenities, service and facilities to unobtrusively encourage a sophisticated target customer eager to enjoy the local environment. With “U Hotels & Resorts”, the brand’s target is the experienced traveler with a curious mind. This is a sophisticated, self-reliant individual not afraid to enjoy, share and get involved, who see things differently and seeks new experiences, global and local, and who can balance their lifestyle and their need for accomplishments. U Hotels & Resorts will consist of maximum 100 rooms/suites and in some cases will include a residential element.

“We are very excited to be part of the brand creation and embrace a philosophy of building mutually beneficial partnerships with property owners and investors like Tanayong, so that their objectives and goals are achieved. We are confident that the strength of our partnerships will be translated into great value and benefits for the guests of ‘U Hotels & Resorts’.” said Mr. Jonathan Wigley, Managing Director of InVision Hospitality.

The first property is under construction and schedule to open by mid 2008. U Chiang Mai, will be a low rise building comprised of 41 rooms and is located in the heart of the city on Rajchadamnoen Road. Only 20 minutes drive from Chiang Mai International Airport and minutes walk to famous city walking streets. The hotel facilities include “Eat&Drink” serving no menu, homely cuisine in a European influence bistro setting for breakfast, lunch and dinner which include an open air bar area. The Resident’s Lounge and three spa treatment rooms are located in the refreshed past residence of Chiang Mai’s governor. The residence has been refreshed in the original Chiang Mai architectural style but through interior design and decorative items. This heritage setting is given a modern Thai accent. The Reading Room will also be located in the same area with extensive collection of Chiang Mai’s history and literature. A fitness together space provides a total workout solution.

Aside from being Wi-Fi enabled throughout the hotel which is complimentary, and an iPod in every room, U Chiang Mai also offers the 24 hour room which will allow guests to enjoy their room for 24 hours from arrival as well as breakfast whenever/wherever during the stay. Participation in the local community activities, heritage talks and guided walks are also available for all of guests who love to immerse in the local environment and its heritage to create their own experience. Fitness together, will include interactive runs with U People and guests. Free bikes are provided for all guest’s use and enjoyment.

Tanayong has appointed Mr. Peerasak Pongarayakul, Design Director of SPA+A to bring out the company vision and brand philosophy on the design of architecture and interiors for all U hotels and resorts under development.

“We choose to work with InVision Hospitality based on their exceptional track record and expertise of the team. We are also proud to add U Hotels & Resorts to our company’s portfolio and it’s part of our expansion in hospitality sector. U Chiang Mai Hotel is the first in a series of new hotels that we are planning to add in Thailand and within the region with both resort and city locations. We are looking forward to expand our presence as a leader in niche/deluxe hotels.” said Mr. Kavin Kanjanapas, Managing Director of Tanayong Public Co. Ltd.