Eric Laurent

Laurent has stepped up as general manager at Awei Pila, the Group's most exotic resort which is situated on a private island in the pristine Mergui Archipelago, one of the newest and most desired destinations in Southeast Asia.

Surrounded by a labyrinth of 800 islands, atolls and lagoons, the Mergui Archipelago was for decades off-limits, and has only in recent years become accessible to visitors.

Awei PIla is now in its second season (open October through May) and has been hailed by several international travel magazines as one of the destinations of the future. Its 24 yurt-like villas overlook a pristine white-sand beach and sapphire sea, and the resort recently opened the first scuba diving center in the region.

Despite its remote location, Awei Pila is able to cater to diverse and intrepid travelers with speedboat transfers from the port of Kawthaung in southern Myanmar. It recently opened a spa, and provides full-board stays with exquisite dining overseen by an experienced Italian chef.