In a recent episode of Trends, filmed at the stunning Ritz-Carlton Residences in Bangkok, YAANA Ventures CEO Willem Niemeijer sat down with host David Barrett to discuss the evolution of eco-luxury travel in Asia — and why glamping is gaining ground among discerning travelers and conscious investors alike.
Willem, a pioneer of sustainable travel in Southeast Asia,
began his journey in tourism in the 1980s before founding Khiri Travel in 1993. In 2016, he launched YAANA Ventures to incubate purpose-driven hospitality ventures that blend commercial viability with positive environmental and community impact.
Among those ventures: Anurak Community Lodge in Thailand, Cardamom Tented Camp in Cambodia, and the newly launched Visama Lodges brand — a next-generation model for deluxe eco-lodges and tented camps in remote corners of Asia.
With 20 en‑suite tents per site, Visama properties are thoughtfully integrated into their natural surroundings and local cultures. The first property opened in late 2023 in Mae Chan, near Chiang Rai in partnership with The Orient & Occident Company. Mae Chan served as the prototype for the Visama Tented Camps concept, inspiring future developments such as Visama Explorer Nan, The lodge is now operated by Dusit Resorts under a white‑label management agreement — a testament to VHG’s ability to design, develop, and deliver high‑end tented hospitality at an international standard.
As Willem explains, glamping offers a compelling alternative to conventional hotel builds.
“It provides a more accessible entry point for investors, while allowing travelers to connect more deeply with nature, culture, and community — without sacrificing comfort.” In post-COVID travel, he notes, authenticity and meaningful experiences have overtaken luxury for luxury’s sake.
Looking ahead, YAANA Ventures and its partners are exploring new locations across Thailand, Cambodia, and further afield — with Visama Explorer Nan opening in late 2025 and more in the pipeline.
For Willem, the opportunity is twofold:
to meet rising demand for sustainable, experience-rich travel, and to help disperse tourism away from saturated hotspots. When asked for his destination tip for 2024, he recommends Thailand’s Nan Province — a domestic favorite still waiting to be discovered by the international market.
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