Chumpol Chantaloon, General Manager

Chumpol Chantaloon, General Manager, Rayavadee, Krabi

In this interview, Chumpol Chantaloon, general manager of Rayavadee, Krabi, share his growth in the hospitality industry in Thailand.

What do you do?

I’m the General Manager at Rayavadee, Krabi.

How did you get into the industry?

My journey in the hotel industry began 22 years ago when I joined Rayavadee in 2000.

Share a behind-the-scenes story.

There are many unique stories about Rayavadee:

• We’re the only resort surrounded by three beaches and stunning limestone cliffs.
• Our nature and wildlife are unparalleled – truly “like nowhere else on Earth.”
• We offer a variety of exceptional experiences within the resort and nearby areas, both on land and at sea.
• The Railay community prioritizes safety and cleanliness.

What’s a food memory from your childhood or travels that stands out?

My hometown in Northeastern Thailand, Isaan, is the source of my most treasured food memories. I love the local Isaan cuisine, which is spicy, salty, and absolutely delicious. Som Tum, a papaya salad, is the ultimate test of Isaan food and a must-try for almost any guest visiting Thailand.

What are the best and worst parts of your job?

The best part is definitely the team. We’re not just colleagues; we’re a big family supporting each other to ensure our guests have the best possible stay.

The biggest challenge is managing seasonal operations. Southern Thailand’s monsoon season can be tough. We work hard to maintain the resort and surrounding areas throughout the year, always ready to welcome visitors.

What’s your favourite food and beverage pairing?

I’m quite simple in this regard – a good red wine with a delicious steak is the perfect way to end a long day.

What’s one of the craziest things you’ve seen behind the scenes?

During the 3-month COVID lockdown, all our staff stayed at the resort, taking care of the property. We were the only people on Railay – it was like a deserted island!

We spent a few hours daily on maintenance, then enjoyed swimming, fishing, kayaking, and cooking together. It was an amazing experience, like one big, happy family.

What would your perfect day off be?

Cooking a special meal with my wife and daughter – simple but special.

Describe a typical day in the life of Chumpol Chantaloon.

Besides operation meetings and managing the property, I prioritize meeting and talking with guests and staff. It helps me understand their needs, comments, suggestions, and expectations, allowing me to serve them better and achieve my ultimate goal: everyone’s happiness.

What does Chumpol Chantaloon do for fun?

I love all sports and hanging out with friends.

What should guests know about Rayavadee?

Rayavadee recently celebrated its 30th anniversary on November 28, 2023. We remain committed to providing exceptional service while preserving the pristine natural beauty surrounding us. Our dedication to nature and environmental conservation will continue to guide us for years to come.

It’s an honour to have welcomed guests over the past 30 years. We consider you part of our family and eagerly await your return.

How have you grown in your profession, and what are your key learnings?

I started in the Front Office and worked my way up to General Manager. My key learnings have come from projects assigned to me and the guidance of mentors.

What should people know about being a General Manager?

This role demands dedication to both the job and the resort. I have an open-door policy and am available 24/7, even on my days off. It’s also crucial to be a role model for the team.

What’s your view on the hospitality scene in Railay?

We’re one of the leading hotels that have positively impacted the area through sustainability initiatives and community building.

What practices are you currently implementing or planning for social responsibility and sustainability?

I use the principles of unity and environmental concern for local people as the driving force for our organization. We actively help preserve the beach and green spaces in the hotel and have joined forces with other Railay businesses to form the “Railay Model” environmental conservation alliance.

What can guests look forward to in the upcoming months?

Besides the festive activities and special menus we’ve prepared for Christmas and New Year, I’m excited to announce the completion of renovations and refurbishments at our four signature restaurants:

• Raya Dining: Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a new “French Bistrot” concept.
• Raitalay Terrace: Open for lunch and dinner, serving delicious Asian cuisine.
• Kura Phranang: Open for dinner, offering authentic Thai and Southern Thai

Read more interviews similar to this one with Chumpol Chantaloon here, and stay updated with the latest gourmet and travel recommendations here and here.