Anantara celebrates its 25th anniversary with exclusive experiences in Budapest
Few luxury hotel brands embrace local culture as thoughtfully as Anantara New York Palace. The brand's story began 25 years ago in Thailand, and since then it has expanded to some of the world's most extraordinary destinations—from tropical islands in the Indian Ocean and vast desert landscapes to iconic European capitals, including Budapest.
Yet throughout the past quarter century, one principle has remained unchanged: offering guests more than simply a luxury stay by immersing them in the culture, traditions, and stories of each destination.
This anniversary year is a celebration of that philosophy.
At Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel, these celebrations take the form of a carefully designed collection of experiences where Hungarian traditions meet renowned Thai hospitality.

Discovering the Art of Matyó Embroidery
One of the anniversary's most distinctive experiences is the Matyó Experience, a half-day excursion to the traditional village of Tard in northeastern Hungary. Matyó folk art is internationally renowned for its vibrant floral patterns and exceptionally intricate embroidery, which has been an integral part of Hungarian cultural heritage for centuries.
Local artisans have passed their knowledge down through generations, allowing visitors not only to observe the creative process but also to try embroidery or even crochet themselves. Along the way, they learn about the symbolism behind the motifs and how the designs have evolved over time.
The excursion also includes a visit to the local church, followed by a traditional Hungarian lunch. Guests are served homemade goulash while listening to authentic Hungarian folk songs that once accompanied community celebrations and seasonal festivities. As a keepsake, participants receive an elegant publication and tote bag introducing the history of Matyó embroidery and highlighting Anantara's commitment to preserving traditional craftsmanship around the world.

A breakfast where Hungary meets Thailand
The anniversary celebrations also extend to gastronomy.
One of the highlights is the "Sunrise Across Two Cultures" breakfast experience, served on the elegant balcony of the hotel's beautiful White Salon.
This private breakfast brings together the flavors of Hungary and the culinary traditions of Thailand at a single table.
The experience perfectly reflects Anantara's philosophy: travel is more than simply moving from one place to another—it's about bringing cultures together, even over breakfast.

From Siam to Budapest: A Wellness Journey with Hévíz Healing Mud
No anniversary celebration would be complete without wellness. The "From Siam to Budapest" signature treatment combines traditional Thai healing rituals with one of Hungary's greatest natural treasures—the therapeutic mud of Hévíz—in a luxurious 90-minute spa experience.
The journey begins with a traditional Thai foot ritual designed to prepare both body and mind for relaxation. This is followed by a mineral-rich back exfoliation and a nourishing Hévíz mud wrap that deeply revitalizes the skin. Guests also enjoy a soothing herbal foot compress before the experience concludes with an invigorating Thai-style back massage.
Blending Eastern wellness traditions with Hungary's renowned spa heritage, the treatment beautifully embodies the anniversary's central message: cultures from opposite sides of the world often have far more in common than we imagine.

East meets west in a Signature Cocktail
The hotel's bar is also unveiling a special anniversary cocktail that perhaps best captures the spirit of the celebration.
Its preparation is a performance in itself. The cocktail is crafted using the "throwing" technique, in which the bartender dramatically pours the ingredients between two vessels. The method not only creates the perfect texture but also adds an entertaining theatrical element behind the bar.
Finished with a garnish of lemon zest, fresh mint, and gold-dusted blueberries, the cocktail is elegant, celebratory, and playful—a fitting tribute to Anantara's remarkable 25-year journey.
A quarter century of stories—with many more to come
The 25th anniversary is not only an opportunity to reflect on the past, but also a promise for the future. For Anantara, travel has always meant far more than staying in a luxury hotel. It is about discovering local cultures, connecting with communities, and preserving traditions.
The anniversary experiences in Budapest perfectly demonstrate this philosophy in practice. The meeting of Thai heritage and Hungarian traditions can be felt in every detail—from the flavors of breakfast and the signature wellness treatment to the celebratory cocktail.
The result is far more than a collection of luxury hotel services. It is a series of meaningful experiences that stay with guests long after their journey has come to an end.







