Renowned wine critic James Suckling(left) poses with Frank Grassmann, General Manager of The Nai Harn Phuket. For high resolution version, click here.
The event featured wine critic James Suckling, described by Forbes as "one of the world's most powerful wine critics", and included a dinner limited to 130 guests from around the world, including 20 of Italy's greatest wine producers, hand-picked by James Suckling for their quality and character, reaching top scores of 90 points and above.
The Great Wines of Italy events are part of a global series of elite wine events by www.jamessuckling.com that journeys across the world to luxury, premium destinations such as Miami, New York, Beverley Hills, Hong Kong and Bangkok. The "Limited Edition" event is exclusive for Phuket and to THE NAI HARN.
The event followed the recent Thai Airways International gala event, also held on the stunning 50-metre long, rooftop restaurant Reflections overlooking Nai Harn Bay, and superstar musician Rami Jaffee of the Foo Fighters' visit, as the resort quietly establishes itself as the most glamourous space for bespoke, high-end events and celebrities on Phuket.
The increasing demand for exclusive events at THE NAI HARN is a strong indication that Phuket is once again reasserting its credentials as Asia's premier luxury destination – away from the mass tourism in the centre of the island in the Patong, Karon and Kata districts.
"We are delighted to be at the forefront of a more luxurious tourism profile," said THE NAI HARN General Manager Frank Grassmann. "It is in line with our heritage as the former Royal Phuket Yacht Club when we hosted numerous global celebrities and we are now again establishing the south of the island in Nai Harn as the most exclusive enclave for high-end events."
New additions recently unveiled at THE NAI HARN Phuket include a generous sun deck with comfortable loungers and breathtaking sea views complemented by an enticing range of culinary experiences. For high resolution version, click here.
Recent research data by C9 Hotelworks supports the trend of a more luxury profile of travelers for leisure and special events, especially with the new airport opening and and the addition of a private jet terminal in the pipeline.
C9 Hotelworks Managing Director Bill Barnett said: "Phuket's airlift is getting a major boost this year with the opening of the new international airport terminal. On the heels of this has been news that an affiliate of Thailand's CP Group has been awarded a BoT concession for a THB200 million private jet terminal.
"This is expected to further boost the island's luxury sector which was the best performing hotel tier last year, demonstrated by a 17% increase in average daily rate (ADR) and 24% jump in RevPAR."
THE NAI HARN was named recently as the sole representative of Thailand in the prestigious DestinAsian Luxe List 2016, recognized for excellence in design, exceptional service standards and unparalleled location. The Luxe List is award-winning travel magazine DestinAsian's annual roundup of luxury hotels and resorts in the Asia-Pacific region.
Originally launched in 1986, but having recently undergone an extensive 18-month remodelling programme, THE NAI HARN offers 130 luxurious guest rooms and suites with panoramic views over the Andaman Sea, with immediate access to Thailand's Best Beach, as voted by TripAdvisor users.
The luxury hotel is home to signature dining outlet Rock Salt and also offers glamorous quirks such as the 'Press For Champagne' button on balconies.