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Explorar Hotels & Resorts Announces Winner of ‘Best Job In The World’ Competition

Explorar Hotels & Resorts Announces Winner of ‘Best Job In The World’ Competition

[Thailand, 20 June 2023] – Explorar Hotels & Resorts, the pioneering and authentic hospitality brand revolutionising the way we travel, is thrilled to announce two winners of its highly coveted ‘Best Job In The World’ competition. After an extensive search, Aleksandra, also known as @agontsarova on Instagram, and Marta, also known as martasielska.pl have emerged as victors, securing a two-month collaboration with Explorar Hotels & Resorts.

Aleksandra, a seasoned content manager renowned for her expertise in the travel industry, has successfully managed iconic travel pages such as @luxuryworldtraveler, @thesunsecretioncollection, and @accessitaly. Her exceptional storytelling skills and eye for captivating visuals have made her a sought-after influencer in the travel community.

Marta, drawing on her extensive experience in digital marketing, has shifted her professional interests to become a passionate travel content creator. She fostered a robust presence on digital platforms such as YouTube and Instagram, dedicating a significant portion of her recent years to specialising in the stunning portrayal of Thailand’s enchanting landscapes. Her endeavours involve guiding her followers with valuable travel advice, suggesting hotel options, and exposing them to the local culture – a commitment that has culminated in her co-authoring an e-book guide about Thailand.

As the winners of the ‘Best Job In The World’ competition, Aleksandra and Marta will have the unique opportunity to live in-house at Explorar Hotels & Resorts and indulge in all that the enchanting Koh Samui and Koh Phangan islands have to offer. With a blend of leisure, remote working facilities, relaxation, and discovery, Explorar Hotels & Resorts provides a modern cultural getaway for friends, couples, and digital nomads seeking to Experience, Exchange, and Exhale.

“We are delighted to have Aleksandra and Marta as the winners of our ‘Best Job In The World’ competition,” said Tim Sargeant, Co-founder & CMO of Explorar Hotels & Resorts. “We were seeking influencers who were keen on staying in a destination for a little longer than usual! Their passion for travel, coupled with their exceptional content creation skills, perfectly align with our vision of redefining the travel experience. We look forward to showcasing the wonders of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan through their unique perspectives.”

During their two-month collaboration, Aleksandra and Marta will document their immersive experiences, providing their followers with an authentic glimpse into the hidden gems, cultural richness, and unparalleled beauty of the islands. From tranquil beaches to vibrant local markets, they will capture the essence of these destinations, sharing their adventures with a global audience.

“I am incredibly grateful to have been chosen for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” expressed Aleksandra. “Explorar Hotels & Resorts has created an innovative concept that encompasses everything I am passionate about: travel, exploration, and meaningful experiences. I am excited to embark on this journey with Marta and share the magic of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan with the world.”

Marta echoed the sentiment, saying, “Joining Aleksandra on this adventure is a dream come true. We share a deep love for travel and a commitment to showcasing the beauty and authenticity of different destinations. Together, we aim to inspire and guide our audience, offering them a truly immersive experience through our content.”

Follow the story by following @Explorarkohsamui, @Explorarkohphangan, @agontsarova, and @martasielskaon Instagram for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Aleksandra and Marta’s exploration of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan islands in collaboration with Explorar Hotels & Resorts.

The livelihood of fisherman in El Nido Palawan island

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The livelihood of fisherman in El Nido Palawan island

El Nido, a captivating paradise on the Philippine island of Palawan, is well known for its immaculate beaches, clean waters, and breathtaking limestone structures. Beyond its natural beauty, El Nido is also known for its thriving fishing community, which not only supports the local economy but also provides a mouthwatering selection of seafood delicacies to fulfil the appetites of any cuisine enthusiast. This blog will examine the daily lives of fishermen in El Nido, the greatest fishing locations, and the scrumptious seafood dishes they prepare with their catch.

Generations of fishermen have made their living in El Nido by taking use of the rich marine resources that surround the island. Many residents still rely heavily on fishing as a source of income, and it is crucial to maintain this lovely area’s traditional way of life. The fishermen of El Nido employ a variety of methods to catch a wide variety of fish and other marine life, including handlines, nets, and spears.

Best Fishing Spots:
El Nido has a wide variety of excellent fishing locations, many of which are alive with marine life. Here are a few places that these fisherman visit:

The nearby El Nido island of Cadlao offers a wide variety of fish species, including snapper, grouper, and mackerel. Additionally, the coral reefs in the area draw a vibrant assortment of tropical species, forming a refuge for snorkelers and divers.

Due to its unusual shape, Dilumacad Island—also known as Helicopter Island—offers fantastic fishing chances. You can pull in fish like barracuda, tuna, and occasionally even sailfish here. The stunning environment of the island gives your fishing trip an added element of magic.

Tapiutan Island: Tapiutan Island boasts a seductive combination of tranquil waters and abundant marine life. In these crystal-clear waters, anglers can expect to capture reef fish, squid, and lobsters. Tapiutan Island is a great place for both fishing and relaxing because of its beautiful surroundings.

Seafood specialities:
The foundation of the area’s gastronomic tradition is the seafood that the fisherman of El Nido catch. The local cuisine offers a variety of delectable delicacies that are expertly and carefully prepared. In El Nido, these seafood dishes are a must-try:

Kinilaw is a form of ceviche made using fresh, raw fish or seafood that has been marinated in vinegar, calamansi juice (Philippine lime), and spices. It is a classic Filipino meal. The catch of the day, like as tuna, mackerel, or grouper, is frequently included in El Nido’s kinilaw, providing a blast of zesty flavours.

Fish for grilling is available in a broad range from El Nido’s fishermen. Whether it’s red snapper, barracuda, or dorado, you can pick your favourite catch and have it expertly grilled. This straightforward recipe is a fantastic delight thanks to the smokey flavour and soft, flaky meat.

Sinigang sa Miso: Typically made with pork or shrimp, sinigang is a well-known sour soup in the Philippines. Fresh local fish is frequently used into sinigang in El Nido, giving it a distinctive touch. Tamarind or guava are used to flavour the soup, giving it a tart and energizing taste.

Fishermen’s livelihoods in El Nido, Palawan Island, not only support the local population but also offer tourists a unique culinary experience. Clean fishing grounds, an abundance of marine life, and the natives’ culinary prowess combine to produce an exquisite feast of seafood specialities. El Nido offers a thorough immersion into the world of fishermen and their abundant ocean harvests, from the pleasure of catching your own fish to relishing the genuine tastes of traditional cuisine. Grab your fishing gear, discover the beautiful places, and savour the finest seafood treats El Nido has to offer.

Explorar Take-Over at Mrs B – Pop up in Phuket

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Explorar Take-Over at Mrs B – Pop up in Phuket

Join us for an exclusive takeover event with Explorar Hotels & Resorts culinary ‘pop-up’ team at Mrs B on Wednesday 17 June. Experience holistic mixology paired 4-course dinner by Explorar’s Culinary Director Raphael Kinomo and Head of Mixology, Joey Lai with Dj Tim Sargeant keeping the ambient settings under control behind the wheels of steel.

Priced at THB 2,000 + per guest for the 4-course menu, a vegetarian option is available.

19/1 Lagoon Road, Cherngtalay, Thalang
Phuket, 83110 Thailand

E [email protected]
T +66 (0) 93 586 9828

Samui Elephant Spa: An Unforgettable Adventure with Gentle Giants

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Samui Elephant Spa: An Unforgettable Adventure with Gentle Giants

Welcome to Samui Elephant Spa, where majestic elephants roam freely in a lush paradise. Prepare yourself for a day filled with incredible experiences, heartwarming encounters, and a deep connection with these magnificent creatures. In this blog, we’ll take you through the delightful itinerary that awaits you at Samui Elephant Spa.

Before we embarked on our adventure, we took a moment to understand the importance of an elephant sanctuary like Samui Elephant Spa. Unlike traditional elephant tourist attractions, this sanctuary prioritizes the well-being and happiness of these gentle giants. They provide a safe and nurturing environment where elephants can roam freely, engage in natural behaviours, and receive proper care from experienced mahouts (elephant caretakers).

The journey begins by preparing a special treat for our elephant friends. Under the guidance of knowledgeable staff, we learnt how to mix rice and bananas, creating a nutritious and delicious supplement meal that elephants adore. This activity allows you to contribute to the elephants’ well-being actively and serves as a bonding experience between you and these incredible animals.

After preparing the elephants’ meal, it was time to meet these magnificent creatures up close and personal. We were introduced to these gentle giants, each with unique personalities and stories. As we offered them the food we prepared, we witnessed their sheer joy and gratitude, creating a connection and building trust between us and the elephants.

It was time to venture into the breathtaking jungle alongside the elephants. Surrounded by the serene beauty of nature, we witnessed these remarkable animals exploring, foraging, and interacting within their natural habitat.

Accompanied by experienced guides, we embarked on a scenic trek, where the elephants led the way. Returning from the jungle, we prepared to get a little dirty as the elephants guided us towards a muddy oasis. The therapeutic mud not only provides a cooling respite but also helps to protect the elephants’ sensitive skin. This playful activity allows you to experience the elephants’ joyful nature firsthand. We joined them in the mud bath, and it was truly an unforgettable experience.

Once we finished the mud bath, we headed to the river for a refreshing experience. We grabbed a brush and joined the elephants in the river. It was very surprising to notice how thick the elephant’s skin is. As the scrubbing session came to an end and the day drew to a close, it was time to indulge in one more unique experience—a Thai noodle soup cooking class. Led by skilled local chefs, we learnt the secrets of creating authentic Thai flavours. From selecting fresh ingredients to mastering the art of balancing flavours, you’ll create a delicious bowl of Thai noodle soup. This culinary adventure serves as a perfect finale to a day filled with remarkable encounters and an empty stomach!

Samui Elephant Spa offers an enchanting and ethical elephant sanctuary experience that leaves a lasting impact on both you and the elephants. From preparing food for these gentle giants to walking alongside them in the jungle, indulging in mud baths and river play, and finally, engaging in a Thai cooking class, every moment is filled with wonder, joy, and a deep connection with nature. Discover for yourself and embark on this incredible journey creating memories that will stay with you forever.

Explorar Hotels & Resorts Influencer Competition: ‘Best Job In The World’

Explorar Hotels & Resorts Influencer Competition: ‘Best Job In The World’

Explorar Hotels & Resorts today announced the official launch of their “Best Job in the World” competition in search of a full-time social media influencer to develop content and videos for their social media channels. The winner of the competition will have the opportunity to live in the hotel full-time for two months, creating content for the brand while travelling to different locations showcasing the destination, culture, and experiencing the finest of the hospitality industry.

The competition is open to both individual and pair influencers that are passionate about travel, hospitality, and creating engaging content. Applicants must have a strong social media presence and be able to demonstrate their ability to generate high-quality content that resonates with a wide audience, as well as be ready to live the Explorar Hotels & Resorts lifestyle for two months or longer on Thailand’s legendary Koh Samui or Koh Phangan islands.

“Being such a digitally forward-thinking and content-driven brand, we’re excited to launch this competition and find the best social media influencer to join our team,” said Tim Sargeant, Co-founder & CMO of Explorar Hotels & Resorts. “Our goal is to show the world our hotels and destination through the eyes of a creative content creator, while also providing them with an incredible opportunity to live and work in our properties and experience the best of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, Thailand.”

The competition will last one month, from May 5 to June 5, 2023, and entrants must submit a short video displaying their unique content-creating skills in line with the Explorar Hotels & Resorts concept and distinctive offering to guests. To be eligible, the entry must include the hashtags @explorarhotels and #BestJobInTheWorld. Explorar Hotels & Resorts representatives will judge the videos. The winner will be revealed at the conclusion of the competition and will begin their new full-time position as a social media influencer.

The winner of the competition will be a full-time influencer for Explorar Hotels & Resorts creating engaging content for the hotel’s social media channels, including Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. They will be in charge of creating high-quality movies, images, and textual content that represent the hotels, the destination, and the region’s culture. The winner will live in the hotel full-board (food, drink, and laundry included), as well as have access to all of the hotel’s daily activities, services, and facilities, as well as travel to various spots in the region to capture the essence of the destination.

“This is truly the best job in the world,” Tim Sargeant exclaimed. “We can’t wait to see the incredible content that our new social media influencer will create, and we are thrilled to have them on board.”

For more information about the “Best Job in the World” competition and to apply, please visit the Explorar Hotels & Resorts website.

Foodies Guide To El Nido – Must Try Dishes And Local Cuisine

El Nido, a tropical haven in the Philippines’ province of Palawan, is renowned for its magnificent beaches, clean waters, and jaw-dropping limestone cliffs. Yet, visitors to this lovely location are drawn there for many reasons than just the beauty, including the cuisine. With a wide selection of dishes and regional cuisine that are sure to tempt your taste buds, El Nido is a food lover’s paradise. This foodie’s guide to El Nido will discuss some of the local cuisine and must-try meals that you shouldn’t miss while there. 

Fresh Seafood

Since El Nido is a coastal town, it should come as no surprise that local cuisine frequently features fresh seafood. El Nido offers a wide selection of seafood meals, including grilled fish, seafood stews, and seafood pasta dishes. Grilled squid, shrimp in garlic butter, and fish sinigang, a sour soup made with fish and vegetables, are some of the most well-liked seafood dishes. A sort of woodworm called “tamilok,” which is gathered from mangrove trees and eaten uncooked with vinegar and onions, is another local delicacy that you can taste. 

Adobo

A traditional Filipino cuisine called adobo adobo is created with meat, typically chicken or pork, that has been marinated in a sauce comprised of soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic before being stewed in the same sauce. Adobo is a staple in the Philippines and is available at practically all of El Nido’s eateries. Rice and veggies go nicely with this rich and savory entrée. 

Lechon

In the Philippines, lechon, or roasted pig, is a common meal that is frequently offered at festive occasions. The pig is roasted over a fire for a number of hours, producing crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. Lechon is a dish that is offered in restaurants and by street vendors in El Nido. If you enjoy beef, this dish is one you should try. 

Halo-Halo

Filipinos love the sweet treat known as halo-halo, which is composed with shaved ice, sweet beans, fruits, and a variety of other toppings like ube (purple yam) and leche flan (custard). It’s a cool, sweet treat that is ideal for El Nido’s hot, muggy climate. 

Philippine Cashew Nuts 

Cashew nuts, which are cultivated on the island and are regarded as some of the best in the world, are a specialty of Palawan. At El Nido, cashew nuts are available in a variety of preparations, from roasted and salted to used as a garnish on ice cream and other delicacies. As a dipping sauce for grilled meats and vegetables, cashew nuts can also be tried. This sauce is produced by pulverizing the nuts into a paste. 

Kinilaw

The raw fish or seafood used in kinilaw is marinated in vinegar, lemon juice, and seasonings. It is a form of Filipino ceviche. It’s a tasty and energizing dish that seafood fans will adore. You may discover kinilaw in El Nido made from a range of fish, including tuna, shrimp, and squid. 

Pinakbet

A variety of vegetables, including eggplant, bitter melon, and okra, are cooked in a stew with tomatoes, onions, and shrimp paste to make pinakbet, a vegetable meal. It’s a delicious and nutritious recipe that’s ideal for vegans and vegetarians. 

In essence, El Nido is a culinary haven with a wide selection of dishes and regional cuisine that are sure to please any palate.

JOIN US IN EL NIDO

Explorar Treehouses El Nido will feature 69 tree-house villas with private plunge pools surrounded by 360-degree untouched, lush mountain terrain overlooking shimmering sea views. The resort will also feature a permaculture farm and garden, a bar and guest area in ‘The Exchange’, a social space for guests to connect which is unique to the Explorar brand along with Spa and wellness utilising local and natural products.

Opening 2025.

Celebrate Songkran 2023 with Explorar Hotels & Resorts.

Songkran is one of Thailand’s most important festivals, commemorating the traditional Thai New Year. The festival, held annually from April 13th to 15th, is famous for its water fights and splashing of water on friends and family. Koh Samui, an island in the Gulf of Thailand, is a popular Songkran tourist destination. 

The centuries-old Thai festival pay homage to elders with traditional ceremonies and festive activities. Based on the Buddhist lunar calendar, the festival coincides with the arrival of spring, making it a time of renewal and new beginnings. 

Songkran celebrations take place all over the Kingdom, with Koh Samui and Koh Phangan being popular destinations for tourists looking to experience the festival. The streets are lined with people armed with water guns, buckets, and hoses, all eager to participate in the festival’s signature water fights. 

Traditional ceremonies such as merit-making at local temples are also happening for those seeking a more cultural Songkran. Thais make offerings to the monks and receive blessings for the new year and water fights. Furthermore, many Thais perform a ritual known as Rod Nam Dum Hua, in which they pour scented water over the hands of their elders as a sign of respect and to seek their blessings. 

Songkran is also a time for feasting. To cater to the diverse range of visitors on the island, local restaurants and street vendors sell traditional Thai food such as som tam (papaya salad), pad thai, and mango sticky rice, as well as international cuisine through-out the holiday. 

Explorar Koh Samui and Explorar Koh Phangan guests can celebrate Songkran with a special Explorar Songrakn Festivities Kit, which includes a water gun, waterproof covers for valuables, and other items. On 14th April from 2 pm, guests can also enjoy Good Times & Tan Lines’ ‘Songkran Edition’ with DJs, live BBQs, Drink Specials, and more.

The Ultimate Guide To El Nido’s Best Dive Spots

In the Philippines, the small hamlet of El Nido is well-known for its breathtaking natural beauty, clean waters, and variety of marine life. El Nido’s reputation as one of the world’s top diving locations comes as no surprise. Choosing which diving locations to visit during your vacation can be challenging with over 30 to choose from. We’ve assembled the most comprehensive guide to the top diving sites in El Nido as a result.  

Tunnel of Dilumacad  

Helicopter Island, also known as Dilumacad Tunnel, is a well-liked dive location that is only a short boat trip from El Nido town. Advanced divers seeking for a challenge will love this dive site. You must swim through the tunnel, which is around 12 meters deep, to get to the other side. You may witness a variety of marine life inside the tunnel, including groupers, batfish, and jackfish schools. Additionally, the tunnel has several unusual characteristics, like tiny air bubbles and light beams that pass through from the opposite side.  

South Miniloc 

Another well-liked diving location is South Miniloc, which is situated in the southern region of Miniloc Island. The location is noted for its pristine waters and an abundance of marine life, making it excellent for both beginning and expert divers. You can witness several fish species, including as fusiliers, butterflyfish, and angelfish, at the site, which has an average depth of 12 to 18 meters. Moreover, you’ll see sea turtles, enormous clams, and vibrant corals.  

Entalula island 

Near El Nido town, Entalula Island is a well-liked location for diving and snorkeling. The location’s crystal-clear waters and colorful coral gardens are well-known. The dive location is ideal for beginning divers because to its average depth of 8–10 meters. There are several different species you can see, including clownfish, parrotfish, and damselfish. Nudibranchs and sea snakes are among the unusual aquatic animals you’ll see.  

Coral Garden of Dilumacad  

Another excellent dive site close to Helicopter Island is the Dilumacad Coral Garden. The location is renowned for its colorful coral gardens, which are home to a diverse range of marine species. The site is appropriate for both beginner and expert divers because to its typical depth of 10–12 meters. You’ll witness a variety of fish, including snapper, barracuda, and angelfish. A variety of coral species, such as staghorn coral, brain coral, and fire coral, are also present.  

North Rock 

For experienced divers, North Rock, which is close to Tres Marias Island, is a popular dive site. Strong currents and enormous pelagic fish, including barracudas and jacks, are two of the site’s most notable features. To explore this location, which has an average depth of 20–30 meters, you must be skilled at drift diving. A variety of reef fish species, including triggerfish, snappers, and surgeonfish, are also visible.  

As a result of its beautiful waters, vivid coral reefs, and a wealth of marine life, El Nido is a divers’ paradise. The diving sites at El Nido provide something for every level of diver, from beginners to experts. Pack your baggage and get ready to discover El Nido’s aquatic environment. 

JOIN US IN EL NIDO

Explorar Treehouses El Nido will feature 69 tree-house villas with private plunge pools surrounded by 360-degree untouched, lush mountain terrain overlooking shimmering sea views. The resort will also feature a permaculture farm and garden, a bar and guest area in ‘The Exchange’, a social space for guests to connect which is unique to the Explorar brand along with Spa and wellness utilising local and natural products.

Opening 2025.

Explorar Hotels & Resorts Welcomes Raphael Kinimo as New Brand Culinary Director.

Explorar Hotels & Resorts is pleased to announce the appointment of Raphael Kinimo as their new Brand Culinary Director. Raphael’s culinary expertise and experience will play a pivotal role in enhancing the brand’s culinary offerings as it expands its destinations worldwide.

Born and raised in France, Raphael’s passion for culinary arts started at a young age. He pursued his passion by attending culinary school, where he developed a deep understanding of classic techniques. Raphael went on to work with some of the world’s most esteemed French three-star Michelin chefs, who imparted their knowledge and techniques, ultimately earning him the title of Master Chef of France.

Raphael’s culinary journey took him to Dubai and Asia, where he served as Executive Chef at some of the most prestigious hotels and restaurants in the region. His diverse culinary experiences and international exposure have allowed him to develop a unique style that blends classic French techniques with global flavours and techniques.

In his new role, Raphael will develop signature and refined culinary offerings across all Explorar properties. He will also lead the training and development of the brand’s culinary team to ensure consistency and excellence across all its properties.

Raphael’s appointment comes at an exciting time for Explorar Hotels & Resorts as the brand continues to expand its global footprint. The addition of Raphael’s culinary expertise and experience will undoubtedly enhance the brand’s reputation as a leader in luxury hospitality.

Commenting on the appointment, Adam Boulton, COO of Explorar Hotels & Resorts, said, “We are thrilled to have Raphael Kinimo join our team. His culinary journey and experience bring a unique perspective to our brand, and we are confident that his expertise will help us elevate our culinary offerings across all our properties worldwide. We look forward to the innovative and creative ideas Raphael will bring to our team as we continue to grow.”

Raphael is equally excited about joining the Explorar Hotels & Resorts team, stating, “I am honoured to be joining the team at Explorar Hotels & Resorts. I look forward to working with the talented culinary teams across the brand’s properties whilst developing unique and exciting culinary experiences for our guests. My goal is to create a culinary journey that reflects the brand’s values and offers an unforgettable dining experience for our guests.”

As Explorar Hotels & Resorts continues to expand, Raphael’s appointment is a clear indication of the brand’s commitment to providing its guests with unparalleled culinary experiences. With Raphael’s expertise and the brand’s reputation for excellence, the future looks bright for Explorar Hotels & Resorts.

Explorar Hotels & Resorts is an innovative and genuine hospitality brand dedicated to a new way of travelling; blending leisure, remote working, relaxation and discovery. The brand provides a modern cultural getaway for friends, couples and digital nomads seeking to
Explore, Exchange and Exhale with properties located in some of the world’s most beautiful destinations in adults-only (16+) peace and quite. From pristine beaches in Thailand to breathtaking landscapes in the Philippines, Explorar Hotels & Resorts provide a unique and unforgettable experience for its guests.