Krystal Prakaikaew Na-Ranong

Krystal Prakaikaew Na-Ranong is a prominent figure in the hospitality industry, best known as the co-founder and owner of The Slate, a multi-award-winning beachfront resort located in northwest Phuket, Thailand.25 Her role at The Slate extends to being the Managing Director, where she has been instrumental in shaping the resort's unique identity and vision.5

Background and Education

Krystal comes from an illustrious local family in Phuket, with her great-grandfather being among the most acclaimed figures in the area.4 She received her education in hotel management from the prestigious Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne3, which laid the foundation for her future career in the hospitality industry.

Career and Experience

Before joining the family business, Krystal gained valuable experience working at high-profile establishments such as the Intercontinental Paris and the Four Seasons Bangkok.1 This international exposure helped her develop a keen eye for luxury hospitality and innovative design concepts.

Vision for The Slate

Krystal's vision for The Slate was to create a hotel that would stand out in Phuket's hospitality landscape. She convinced her father, Wichit Na-Ranong, to move away from a traditional Thai style and embrace a more modern design aesthetic while still incorporating elements of Phuket's rich tin mining history.1 This unique approach resulted in a contemporary hotel that tells the story of the island's past, making it a conversation starter for guests.1

Contributions to The Slate

Under Krystal's leadership, The Slate has become known for its:

1. Strong emphasis on design and aesthetics
2. Incorporation of local history and culture
3. Innovative approach to hospitality

She has also initiated projects that enhance the guest experience, such as:

• SHADES: An art gallery featuring conceptual sculptures, paintings, and photography1
• INIS: A collection of resort jewelry (Celtic for "island")1
• Vibrations: A pioneering approach to music, food, and cultural celebration6

Personal Interests

Outside of her work at The Slate, Krystal is known to play the harp and has a passion for art and fashion, which often influences her work at the resort.1 Her ability to read the market and introduce innovative concepts has made her a notable figure in the hospitality industry.7

In summary, Krystal Prakaikaew Na-Ranong is a visionary hotelier who has successfully blended modern design with local heritage to create a unique hospitality experience at The Slate in Phuket, Thailand.