Santiburi Spa Koh Samui is a sanctuary offering Thai heritage intertwined with wellness. Part of the prestigious Santiburi Koh Samui Resort, the spa has earned a place among the Luxury Lifestyle Awards’ TOP 100 Spas of the World 2025, recognized for its serene setting, sustainability ethos, and transformative guest experiences rooted in peace and nature.

At the heart of this success is Giulio Stix, a dynamic leader with over 20 years of global experience in ultra-luxury hospitality. Fluent in five languages and known for his forward-thinking management style, Giulio has led Santiburi’s repositioning into a model of refined, responsible luxury. Under his guidance, the resort has achieved remarkable growth while enhancing both guest satisfaction and team development. His approach fuses commercial acumen with a passion for mentorship, innovation, and sustainable operations that elevate every aspect of the guest journey.

Alexander Chetchikov, President of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce, has over 17 years of experience celebrating the world’s top luxury brands through the Luxury Lifestyle Awards, bringing deep expertise and insight into the evolving luxury industry. Alexander leads our interview with Giulio.

Alexander Chetchikov: Congratulations on being named one of the TOP 100 Spas of the World by Luxury Lifestyle Awards! The spa’s philosophy centers around “Peace in Every Dimension.” How is this holistic principle reflected in the guest experience from arrival to departure?

Giulio Stix: At Santiburi Spa, we see wellness as a way of life rather than a temporary escape. What truly sets us apart is our personalised approach that blends authentic Thai hospitality with a deep respect for nature and local traditions. Each treatment is thoughtfully designed to restore harmony between body, mind, and spirit, using naturally sourced ingredients — many cultivated right here on the island or within our own resort gardens. Surrounded by lush greenery, guided by expert therapists, and immersed in a sense of calm, our guests feel genuinely cared for from the very first moment.

AC: Signature treatments like “Journey of Samui” and the moringa-based rituals have gained much acclaim. How do these experiences embody the spirit of Santiburi and the local culture?

GS: Each of our signature rituals reflects the essence of Samui — its natural beauty, its traditions, and its way of life. The “Journey of Samui,” for instance, draws on the island’s healing heritage, using locally sourced coconut oil and herbs that have long been valued for their restorative qualities. Our moringa-based rituals celebrate one of Thailand’s most nourishing plants, connecting guests to the land through its natural benefits. Together, these treatments capture Santiburi’s spirit — authentic, elegant, and deeply connected to the island.

AC: Santiburi Koh Samui is known for combining wellness, family experiences, and sustainability. How do you ensure these elements coexist harmoniously without compromising the resort’s luxury positioning?

GS: Luxury today is about balance and meaningful experiences. At Santiburi, wellness and sustainability are part of that luxury — they enrich it rather than limit it. Families can connect through mindful activities, while guests seeking rest and reflection can retreat into calm and tranquillity. Every detail, from our organic gardens to thoughtfully crafted spaces, reflects this approach. Sustainability isn’t restrictive; it’s a way to make each experience more intentional, authentic, and memorable.

AC: You’ve led Santiburi through a phase of exceptional growth and transformation. In your view, what defines modern luxury in today’s hospitality landscape?

GS: Modern luxury is about authenticity, personalisation, and a true connection — both emotional and local. Today’s guests aren’t looking for excess; they want experiences that feel meaningful and rooted in their surroundings. For us, that means crafting stays that are elegant yet effortless, where every interaction feels genuine. Technology and design are important, but human connection remains the greatest luxury of all.

AC: Sustainability is now an integral part of the luxury conversation. How do you see the balance between environmental responsibility and the desire for indulgence evolving in the years ahead?

GS: I believe indulgence and sustainability can go hand in hand. True indulgence today is less about material things and more about sensory and emotional experiences. Guests increasingly want experiences that reflect their values. When luxury respects the planet — with locally sourced food, biodegradable spa products, or thoughtfully designed spaces — it becomes more meaningful. The future of luxury is about responsible enjoyment.

AC: Having managed diverse teams across cultures and continents, what leadership values do you believe are most crucial for driving excellence in luxury hospitality today?

GS: Empathy, trust, and empowerment are the foundation. A great leader listens deeply, recognises individuality, and nurtures growth. In a multicultural environment, emotional intelligence is key — understanding what motivates each team member and creating a sense of shared purpose. At Santiburi, we foster a team culture that feels like a family, where everyone supports and inspires each other. I aim to lead by example, encouraging creativity, care, and collaboration in everything we do. Our guests can feel it when a team works together with harmony and pride.

AC: Finally, as global travelers increasingly seek meaningful experiences, how do you foresee the future of luxury hospitality adapting to meet these evolving expectations?

GS: The future of luxury lies in experiences that transform rather than just impress. Travellers will seek places that offer genuine connection — to nature, local culture, and community — while still enjoying comfort and refinement. At Santiburi, we strive to be such a sanctuary: a place where guests can slow down, reconnect with themselves and their loved ones, and experience the best of Koh Samui in a meaningful way. For us, true luxury is about feeling and experience, not just appearances.

Thank you, Giulio, for sharing your insights and for continuing to reshape what authentic luxury means in the world of wellness and hospitality.

Visit https://santiburisamui.com/ to book your next unforgettable experience today.