Crafting Destinations, Preserving Cultures: The Visionary Leaders of Secret Retreats PART 1
The Visionaries Who Turn Dreams into Destinations
Every great journey begins with a vision. At Secret Retreats, our collection of boutique hotels, lodges, yachts and river boats, and restaurants, all have fascinating stories behind them, the stories of the visionary founders and leaders who bring each destination to life. These travel trailblazers have transformed their dreams into sanctuaries of authenticity, sustainability, and cultural preservation. This is the first of two editions celebrating the inspiring minds shaping the future of travel in Asia.
Chris Kingsley – Wa Ale Private Island Resort, Myanmar
When Chris Kingsley and his wife Farina discovered the untouched beauty of the Myeik Archipelago in Myanmar, they saw an opportunity to create more than just a luxury resort. They envisioned a sustainable retreat that would give back to the land and its people. Thus, Wa Ale was born—a sanctuary where conservation and community support go hand in hand.
Through the Lampi Foundation, which receives 20% of the resort’s net profits, the Kingsleys have made an indelible mark on the region. Their foundation funds marine and wildlife conservation efforts, supports local education, and ensures that Lampi Island Marine National Park remains a protected haven for generations to come.
Wa Ale is more than a resort—it is a movement dedicated to preserving Myanmar’s natural wonders while offering guests an unparalleled experience of remote island luxury. Guests can snorkel in thriving coral reefs, kayak through mangroves, and witness the conservation efforts firsthand. The Kingsleys’ vision extends beyond hospitality; they are committed to making a lasting impact on the region’s environment and local communities, ensuring that their legacy remains long after the waves have washed away travelers’ footprints in the sand.
Antara Phookan – Assam Bengal Navigation (ABN) Cruises, India
Antara Phookan’s journey is one that flows with the rivers of India. As part of the family behind Assam Bengal Navigation (ABN), under her stewardship she continues a legacy of exploration, offering travelers a chance to experience India from its most ancient highways—the Brahmaputra and the Ganges.
ABN Cruises is not merely about luxury river journeys; it’s a deep dive into India’s cultural and natural landscapes. With a commitment to sustainable tourism, the Phookan family ensures that these voyages contribute to local communities, preserving heritage while introducing guests to the untouched beauty of the country’s waterways.
Antara’s passion for responsible tourism is evident in every aspect of ABN’s operations. From employing local artisans to designing the interiors of the riverboats to curating excursions that immerse guests in the traditions of riverbank communities, her approach honors India’s diverse history while forging a path for sustainable travel. Guests aboard ABN Cruises don’t just witness India—they experience its rhythm, culture, and heart, guided by Antara’s and her team’s unwavering commitment to mindful exploration.
Atirat Danphattharaworawat – 500 Rai Floating Resort, Thailand
For Atirat Danphattharaworawat, the vision for 500 Rai Floating Resort was clear, to create an experience that seamlessly connects guests with the pristine beauty of Khao Sok National Park. Perched on the emerald waters of Cheow Lan Lake, this floating retreat is a testament to the harmony between hospitality and nature.
Sustainability is at the heart of 500 Rai. By distributing tourism revenue to local communities and implementing eco-friendly initiatives, Atirat ensures that the surrounding environment remains unspoiled. The resort operates with minimal impact, using solar energy, responsible waste management, and working closely with local rangers to protect and conserve the biodiversity of the national park.
More than just a place to stay, 500 Rai is an invitation to rediscover nature, unplug from the modern world, and experience Thailand’s landscapes in their purest form. Guests wake up to mist-covered limestone cliffs, kayak through the lake’s turquoise waters, and listen to the distant calls of gibbons—a true immersion into one of Thailand’s last great wildernesses. Through Atirat’s leadership, 500 Rai is not just a resort, but a gateway to a deeper connection with nature.
Chef Orng Joitamoi – Echo Dining, Myanmar
A rising star in Myanmar’s culinary scene, Chef Orng Joitamoi is redefining fine dining with a distinctly local approach. At Echo Dining, perched on the 24th floor of M Tower in Yangon, Chef Orng crafts dishes that tell the story of Myanmar’s rich agricultural heritage.
His farm-to-table philosophy ensures that each ingredient is sourced directly from local farmers, celebrating the country’s seasonal bounty. Echo Dining is more than a restaurant; it is a culinary narrative where Myanmar’s flavors take center stage.
Chef Orng’s deep-rooted respect for Myanmar’s ingredients is evident in every plate he serves. He works closely with small-scale farmers, fishermen, and artisans to create dishes that showcase the country’s biodiversity. His menu evolves with the seasons, offering guests an ever-changing seasonal experience of Myanmar’s terroir. By championing local producers and sustainable practices, he is not only elevating Myanmar’s place on the global gastronomic map but also ensuring that its food heritage thrives for future generations.
Kimsan Pol – Embassy, Cambodia
As the Culinary Director of Embassy Khmer Gastronomy, one of Cambodia’s most renowned fine-dining establishments, Kimsan Pol is a driving force behind the elevation of Khmer cuisine on the global stage. Through meticulously crafted tasting menus, she presents an exquisite interpretation of Cambodia’s rich culinary heritage while incorporating modern techniques and artistic plating.
Kimsan Pol’s dedication to Cambodian gastronomy extends beyond the restaurant. She actively works with local farmers and producers to ensure that traditional ingredients remain at the forefront of her dishes. Her philosophy is rooted in authenticity, sustainability, and storytelling—each course served at Embassy is a tribute to Cambodia’s diverse flavors and cultural traditions. By leading with passion and innovation, Kimsan Pol is shaping the future of Khmer cuisine, turning every dining experience into a journey through Cambodia’s culinary soul.
The Visionaries Behind Secret Retreats
Each of these founders and managers shares a common trait—a deep commitment to sustainability, culture, and crafting unique travel experiences. Their journeys are not just about business, they are about passion, preservation, and purpose. Whether it’s through luxury river cruises, floating eco-resorts, island conservation, or reimagining fine dining, these visionaries are reshaping the way we travel.
At Secret Retreats, we believe that authenticity and responsible stewardship are essential qualities of a truly sustainable hospitality business. As you embark on your next journey, let these stories inspire you to seek destinations where visionaries like Chris, Antara, Atirat, Orng, and Pol have paved the way for meaningful, responsible, transformative travel.
Stay tuned for the second edition, where we will continue to explore the incredible individuals behind Secret Retreats’ most captivating destinations.
Discover more about these exceptional destinations at Secret Retreats.
