Chestnut Maintains Norfolk Momentum

In a groundbreaking effort to help safeguard Khao Lak's stunning natural beaches, lessen the impact of rising sea levels and combat coastal erosion, Thailand's luxurious boutique resort, The Sarojin, is researching the viability of a new and innovative sustainability project. Using locally sourced oyster shells and by-products from the local fishing industry, research test sites were created in late November to assess the viability of a possible new natural offshore reef.  If successful, it's hoped the scheme will improve the area's environmental resilience and enhance its marine ecosystem. Photo credits: The Sarojin Khao Lak's beaches experience typical seasonal monsoon erosion due to their exposure to the Andaman Sea and, like many coastal regions, Khao Lak is at risk of shoreline retreat. Sea level rises also pose another threat, making coastal protection a key priority for the area. Current measures in place, such as sand-filled bags and concrete walls, reduce the beaches' aesthetic, impact local businesses and affect natural habitats. The Sarojin's research project is a natural solution to coastal erosion that utilises indigenous oyster shells sourced from local fishermen. Net boxes filled with the cleaned shells have been deployed at various test sites along the coast, with locations identified through an extensive review of the shoreline. Sustainable engineering and consultancy firm Witteveen+Bos provided initial research advice. Over time, it's hoped that free-swimming oyster larvae will attach themselves to the boxed shells, gradually forming a thriving oyster basket reef that can then be more permanently installed offshore. In addition to serving as a natural barrier against erosion, the oysters are highly effective water filters and their presence is expected to significantly improve inshore water quality, further enhancing marine ecosystems. Photo credits: The Sarojin Spearheading the initiative is The Sarojin owner Andrew Kemp, who added: "We're truly passionate about sustainability and responsible tourism at The Sarojin and protecting the area's stunning coastline is something that is so vitally important to our local community and wildlife and has always been high on our agenda. We are already heavily involved in local mangrove planting projects along the coast and launched our One Booking One Tree initiative in 2022, which sees one tree planted for every guest at the resort, but we felt we could do more. A similar oyster reef concept has already been researched and trialled in Singapore with promising results. If our trials in Thailand are also successful, we hope the resulting reef project will have a lasting positive impact on the environment. Our test sites should give us a clear indication of the efficiency and viability of the project within the coming nine to twelve months.” Monitored test sites include nets fastened to the seafloor by The Sarojin's jetty as well as within the estuary that rivens the property. The sites will be monitored regularly through 2025 to assess the basket reef's growth and development. If successful there are plans for the project to be extended with additional sites added next year. For more information about The Sarojin, please visit: www.sarojin.com

Four Seasons, the world’s leading luxury hospitality and branded residential company, in partnership with Hinitsa Bay Holdings, announces plans for the redevelopment of a beachside property at Hinitsa Bay, Porto Heli, Greece into a luxury resort and private residences. Photo credits: Four Seasons Set against the scenic backdrop of southeastern Greece, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Porto Heli will offer bay views of the Argolic Gulf and the nearby island of Spetses. The expansion and redevelopment will transform an existing beachfront estate, which currently spans 75 hectares (185 acres) and 3.25 kilometres (3,250 metres) of coastline, into a new Four Seasons experience with 80 guest rooms and suites and 30 bungalows, as well as Four Seasons branded residential villas. Thanks to its ideal and prime location, guests and residents will have ease of access to the beach, nearby town centre and extensive walking trails, along with the services and amenities of Four Seasons. “As we continue expanding our exceptional portfolio of hotels, resorts and residences in Greece, Four Seasons entry into Porto Heli will create yet another dynamic resort destination for discerning guests and residents to enjoy,” says Bart Carnahan, President, Global Business Development, Portfolio Management and Residential, Four Seasons. “In partnership with Hinitsa Bay Holdings, we look forward to continuing to build Porto Heli’s profile as a premier Mediterranean destination with a new resort that embodies Four Seasons renowned commitment to service, quality, and personalized experiences.” “The transformation of this exceptional and beautiful estate at Hinitsa Bay into a luxury Four Seasons resort is an important step in the enhancement of the Porto Heli area,” says Paul Coulson, Chairman of Hinitsa Bay Holdings. “We are dedicated to maintaining the ambiance and character of the area while bringing onstream the facilities and leading standards of excellence, quality, and luxury hospitality associated with Four Seasons. With their proven track record of successful projects in key resort destinations throughout the world, we are confident that this development will offer an unparalleled experience for luxury guests and villa owners.” From the Kids For All Seasons program to an extensive multi-sports centre, gym, meeting space, and pools for adults, families and kids, the new Four Seasons Resort and Residences Porto Heli will boast amenities that cater to diverse preferences while delivering a new experience in a destination that is already celebrated by luxury travellers throughout Europe and around the world. Four Seasons guests and residents will also indulge in several distinct dining experiences including an all-day restaurant, beachfront dining, lobby lounge, and more. Located within a 1.3 hectare (3.25 acres) garden, the Resort’s Spa will connect guests to nature with experiences that help tap into a true sense of wellbeing. The wellness space will feature a lounge, more than 18 treatment rooms, fitness and movement facilities, and a thermal suite including saunas, steam rooms, hot and cold plunges and a salt pool. From the social spaces to the fitness and spa facilities, the design has prioritized creating a sense of calmness and peace while connecting guests with nature. Porto Heli, once best known as a fishing village, has evolved into a dynamic summer destination with its idyllic beaches, stately villas, and vibrant nightlife. The area is renowned for its striking natural surroundings, convenient access to the islands of Spetses, Hydra, and Poros, and proximity to the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, as well as the historic town of Nafplion. The verdant landscapes, scenic shores, and turquoise waters together with the destination’s state-of-the-art amenities and traditional charm have attracted luxury tourism and real estate developments, making Porto Heli an ideal setting for a luxurious retreat. Porto Heli is well-connected to Athens via a two and half-hour drive, a short helicopter ride, daily ferry, or private boat services. Four Seasons Resort and Residences Porto Heli will add to Four Seasons portfolio in Greece, including the award-winning Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, and Four Seasons Resort Mykonos, which will open in 2025.

The picturesque Swiss ski resort of Saas-Fee has announced a festive season celebrating the 40th anniversary of Wham!’s ‘Last Christmas’, inviting explorers and skiers alike to recreate its ‘80s nostalgia in the very place the ‘Last Christmas’ music video was filmed in 1984. Photo credits: Saas-Fee ski resort This winter, Saas-Fee will honour the beloved Christmas classic with a series of Wham! inspired festivities designed to transport fans back to the romantic snow-capped setting of ‘Last Christmas’. A car-free resort still happily home to longstanding family-run boutiques, cafes and restaurants rather than big-name international brands, the village remains virtually unchanged from the days it welcomed George Michael, Andrew Ridgeley, Pepsi and Shirlie. A peaceful base providing easy access to all the festivities, The Capra, Saas-Fee’s leading five-star superior boutique hotel, will be the place to stay thanks to a new three-night package introduced for the 40th anniversary. The package includes a three-night stay for two guests, a Wham!Cocktail during their stay, daily breakfast and a Wham!Walk. The Capra will also be hosting nostalgic nights in the hotel’s wine cellar, serving an Alpine interpretation of classic ‘80s dishes. In keeping with The Capra’s year-round culinary concept, retro favourites such as prawn cocktails and traditional English trifle will be made with top-quality, unadulterated local products. Photo credits: Saas-Fee ski resort Highlight activities in Saas-Fee include: The ‘Last Christmas’ glass Karaoke Box at the entrance to Saas-Fee village, where guests can sing Wham! hits under the stars A special Wham! exhibition at the Saas Museum Guided ‘Wham!Walks’ around Saas-Fee to take in the spotlight locations from the music video A ride on the iconic Felskinn Cable Car, which featured in the original ‘Last Christmas’ music video and will be decorated in traditional ‘80s style For guests visiting on 21st December, the opportunity to attend a colourful ‘80s Wham! party held within the village Feel-good après-ski with a live DJ at WinterVibes Bar, from 9th November The Eskimos Ski & Snowboard School’s special ‘Last Christmas’ package with discounted lessons The Capra’s Last Christmas package is available from December 1st to January 31st, with prices starting at 1,170 CHF for a three-night stay based on double occupancy. For reservation enquiries, email reservation@capra.ch with the subject line "Whamtastic."