Phuket is advancing its position as a prime destination for wellness tourism with the introduction of the "Klee Wellness Retreat,” which involves significant investments aimed at enhancing the health services on offer. The new health center, developed by Kleej Holdings and led by CEO Dr. Kritsada Jitsumruay, is projected to cost over 400 million baht. Its purpose is to cater to health-conscious tourists from around the globe, contributing to Phuket’s reputation as the ultimate Wellness Tourism Hub.
The "Klee Wellness Retreat" will combine modern medical practices with holistic health approaches, establishing itself on 4 rai of land located in Koh Kaew, Phuket. Dr. Kritsada emphasized the need for such developments, stating, “Currently, Phuket has been supported by the government to become a Wellness Tourism Hub to promote health tourism. Tourists are showing increasing interest in health, leading to several private projects like VITALIFE from Bangkok Dusit Medical Services and others.”
With over 15 years of experience in the healthcare sector, Dr. Kritsada aims to instill preventive healthcare and wellness practices at the new retreat. Services will range from preventive healthcare programs to anti-aging, regenerative medicine, and integrative health treatments, creating personalized health improvement programs.
“Klee Wellness Retreat” is set to offer comprehensive services and will feature accommodations for 50 guests, ensuring comfort for health tourists. The project, strategically located near the international airport, major beaches, and various health tourism sites, allows for easy access.
Dr. Kritsada remarked, “We believe the natural surroundings are key to recovery. This project is intentionally constructed to harmonize with nature so visitors can truly experience holistic health care.” The aim is not only to improve health standards but also to positively impact the local economy by creating jobs and business opportunities for residents through service and management positions.
“We hope this project will transform perceptions of health care among Thais, emphasizing holistic health concerns and integrating Phuket as a recognized Wellness Tourism center worldwide,” Dr. Kritsada noted. Recently, the project celebrated its ceremonial groundbreaking, attended by several dignitaries, including investor Aaron Staining and local leaders expressing excitement about positive community impacts.
Local Mayor Kueakrit Jitkuad expressed his congratulations, recognizing the expected benefits to job creation and public health standards. “This project is not just important for the health and tourism sectors of Phuket, but it also distributes income to local communities,” he added. To reinforce its commitment to community health, “Klee Wellness Retreat” partnered with View Advance Tech to donate half a million baht to establish the region's first comprehensive cancer center at Vachira Phuket Hospital.
On the hospitality front, The Ascot Group, part of CapitaLand Investment Limited, has been enhancing its service apartment offerings across Thailand and Laos for over 40 years. With the steady growth of 980 properties worldwide under various brands, they continue to make waves within the serviced residence market aimed at tourists and long-term residents.
Mr. Tan, the general manager, pointed out the expansion plans across Thailand, indicating significant investments are being made to thrive within the ever-competitive hotel market. The company aims to increase its portfolio of serviced apartments significantly by opening 28 properties with 5,587 rooms under brands like Somerset, Citadines, and LYF. The upcoming Somerset Sukhumvit 71 is expected to open soon, adding to the extensive offerings.
“The key to our success is adapting to travelers’ changing needs, maintaining quality and innovativeness,” Mr. Tan stated. This adaptability aligns with the increasing demand for flexible living arrangements, especially as trends like “Bleisure” — integrating business with leisure travel — rise. Hybrid establishments combining hotel and serviced apartments within one facility have become increasingly popular.
Modernform Group is also stepping up by introducing “ORBIX,” its latest line of office furniture aimed at supporting hybrid work and living. With designs promoting functionality, flexibility, and productivity, ORBIX enables the integration of workplace aesthetics within domestic settings. Executive Kittipat Neungjamnong emphasizes the need for workspaces to embrace emotional well-being and creativity beyond traditional office confines.
“A good workplace should not only be functional but inspire creativity and promote balanced productivity,” he explained. Their innovative designs include the adjustable-height desks aiming to reduce office-related ailments and improve overall well-being.
With continued focus on well-being, Modernform's approach ensures work environments contribute to the happiness and productivity of employees. The adaptability of ORBIX furniture reaffirms the company’s dedication to meeting modern needs, allowing spaces to accommodate various working styles comfortably.
Through these initiatives, both “Klee Wellness Retreat” and The Ascot Group stand at the forefront of reshaping health and hospitality experiences, paving the way for Phuket and Thailand as premium destinations for wellness and integrated living.