Thailand, Koh Samui, Surat Thani. June 23, 2020

Meliá Koh Samui is launching a raft of stringent health, safety and hygiene measures in the wake of COVID-19, including the appointment of an executive to take charge of the emotional wellbeing of guests.

The 159-room and 41-suite luxury beachfront resort and the first property in Thailand launched under Spanish hotel group Meliá Hotels International has reopened after closing in April due to the spread of Covid-19, and is introducing the sweeping new measures under a global program called "Stay Safe With Meliá".

Developed in collaboration with certification, inspection and testing company Bureau Veritas, the program's rigorous standards are based on World Health Organization recommendations and are being implemented across all of Meliá Hotels International's properties upon reopening.

The "360 degree" program entails a strict cleaning and disinfection plan endorsed by supplier Diversey and uses technological solutions to minimize physical contact between guests and staff, utilizing occupational health measures to identify people at risk and management of possible cases of infection. The program also includes post-COVID-19 standards to ensure the safety of food and beverage, wellness, entertainment and in-room experiences as well as operational guides targeting staff procedures, training and maintenance of facilities.

In addition to Bureau Veritas auditing Meliá Hotels International's management of the preventative measures to combat COVID-19, Meliá Koh Samui will appoint a person responsible for the emotional wellbeing of guests and to verify compliance with the program.

"We are studiously training our staff in these crucial new operating procedures and standards to ensure only the highest levels of health, safety and hygiene for all of our guests, our staff and our community in this brave new world," said the resort's general manager Ernesto Osuna.

Meliá Koh Samui has also obtained "Amazing Thailand Safety and Health: SHA" certification, developed by Thailand's Ministry for Tourism in collaboration with public and private sector partners to mitigate the threat of COVID-19 and elevate the country's tourism industry standards. Under the certification, Meliá Koh Samui must follow strict COVID-19 control guidelines by Thailand's Department of Disease Control and Ministry of Public Health regarding sanitation and social distancing.

Overlooking Choeng Mon Beach, on Koh Samui's north-eastern coastline in the Gulf of Thailand, Meliá Koh Samui celebrated its grand opening on January 10, unveiling world-class facilities including two restaurants, a swim-up bar, a lagoon pool that "loops" through its grounds like a river, a two-level infinity pool, an executive lounge, spa, fitness centre, ballroom and conference facilities and, for families, a kid's club, outdoor playground and mini water park.

To contact Meliá Koh Samui or to make a booking, please call +66 (0) 89 184 0725 or email [email protected]