Ahead of Love Hornbills Day on 13th February, Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort has announced the celebration of its resident hornbill couple, Gok and Gek, who have made their home in a tree on the grounds of the resort overlooking the azures of the Andaman Sea. Offering a perch above the resort’s picturesque Sea View Pool Villas, this special tree has affectionately been dubbed the Hornbill Hotel by the Avani team, symbolising the property’s commitment to wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism.
In honour of the avian duo, Avani+ Koh Lanta is embracing its connection with nature through a series of interactive guest experiences. The resort has developed activities that promote conservation and showcase Koh Lanta’s vibrant ecosystem, all while respecting the local wildlife. Families can join in the fun with a Hornbill Heroes adventure booklet filled with creativity, learning and fun nature-based activities. Kids can spot Gok and Gek in their natural habitat and learn about their role in the local environment.
AvaniKids ignites curiosity through wildlife themed arts and crafts, complemented by a special bedtime story session featuring When Gok Met Gek – a captivating tale illustrated by a talented Thai artist. To make the experience even more memorable, children will be treated to hornbill-shaped cookies, adding a delightful and delicious touch.
Families can snap memorable moments at hornbill inspired Instagram hotspots, from a vibrant wildlife mural to a perch beneath the iconic Hornbill Hotel. As the sun dips below the Andaman Sea, guests are invited to toast the view with Hornbill Highballs, G+G gin and tonics, or Beaky Blast mocktails – best enjoyed from treetop tables with panoramic ocean vistas.
John Roberts, Group Director of Sustainability & Conservation at Minor Hotels, commented, “At Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort, the emphasis is on nurturing the natural surroundings while offering guests memorable experiences. Gok and Gek’s presence is a testament to the thriving ecosystem here, and the resort is excited to introduce guests to the beauty of local wildlife through engaging activities. Oriental pied hornbill are one species that have adapted to live with human presence and their familiarity with the resort and guests, while keeping a safe distance, certainly reflects that”.
The new guest experiences align with Avani’s broader commitment to sustainability. Avani+ Koh Lanta Resort actively participates in various conservation efforts, including the Dugong Food Survival project, which supports the restoration of seagrass beds crucial for the local marine ecosystem. Additionally, the resort’s Edible Flower Farm showcases sustainable practices, offering guests unique culinary experiences through in-house cooking classes and innovative menu options.
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