Imagine arriving in Chiang Mai on Sunday 17 May, stepping out of the heat and into the calm of Aleenta Retreat. You check into your room or suite (many with private pools) surrounded by lush gardens and mountain views. Bags down, sandals on, the pace immediately shifts.
As the sun begins to set, we gather by the pool for a welcome reception with cocktails, where conversations flow easily and introductions are made. Speakers, delegates and industry peers meet not as “attendees”, but as fellow travellers in the world of regenerative resort development.
Later that evening, for those feeling adventurous, Chiang Mai’s Old Town night market is just a short taxi ride away the bustle of street food, crafts, colour and energy offering a first taste of northern Thailand.
To truly embrace the spirit of the place, we encourage early risers to experience something special. Aleenta Retreat sits close to the start of the Monk’s Trail, a gentle jungle path leading to Wat Pha Lat, a serene forest temple nestled in the hills of Doi Suthep. It’s a beautiful way to witness local spiritual life – walking quietly through the forest, offering alms to monks, or simply pausing for reflection.
Each morning, our group is invited to complimentary wellness sessions, led by local practitioners, before breakfast is served in Aleenta’s indoor–outdoor Garden Restaurant. From there, the days unfold in a relaxed, considered rhythm: a morning conference session focused on thoughtful discussion and shared insight, followed by a leisurely lunch and continued conversations into the mid-afternoon.
There is time, intentionally; to rest, reflect or enjoy the resort before we head out together on Monday evening for a hosted dinner, experiencing Chiang Mai beyond the conference setting.
Tuesday follows a similar gentle pace, concluding with an invitation to join the APOLA drinks reception, bringing together a wider circle of Asia-Pacific hospitality professionals, before a final evening dining and dancing together in the Old Town.
Eco Resort Network gatherings are designed as much around connection and experience as they are around content. Meals, excursions and shared moments are integral to the conversations that happen here; often long after the sessions end.
For those wishing to extend their stay, we’ll be delighted to suggest activities, excursions and explorations to make the most of northern Thailand.
Places are limited, rooms at Aleenta are in high demand, and the gathering is capped to preserve its intimate, collaborative atmosphere.
