Going to the spa is quite an experience. Some might even go as far as claiming it to be a life-changing experience. It is definitely something that you need every now and then to rejuvenate and revive yourself after nerve-wrecking hours at work and going about your hectic daily life in the big city. Well known for its sandy beaches and rich heritage, Thailand is also home to serenity and uncompromised relaxation. In this issue, Top 10 of Asia takes a look at its list of the 10 most luxurious and exclusive spas in Thailand (listed in no particular order) each with its own specialty and breath-taking location.
Akaryn Samui
Founded by Anchalika Kijkanakorn, Akaryn Samui is strategically located to face a tantalizing blue lagoon in the wonderful crescent-shaped Hanuman Bay. Sophistication and privacy are two elements that are carefully thought of in designing each suite and villa. The exclusive spa is the place to be to restore wellness and rejuvenate. Among the treatment offered at Akaryn Samui are spa treatments, aromatherapy, Ayurveda, body scrub, deep tissue massage, meditation, reflexology, sauna as well as Thai and Swedish massage. Akaryn Samui offers you the smoothest journey towards wellness and relaxation.
Anchalika Kijkanakorn
Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa
Situated on the bank of Chao Phraya River, Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa is a perfect hideaway from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok city. Imagine the beautiful cityscapes as the backdrop and lush tropical garden surrounding you while being pampered by what could possibly the best relaxation treatment you have ever received. Founded by William Heinecke, the spa combines ancient remedies and contemporary techniques to help rejuvenate and bring back your inner glow. There are couple suites and deluxe rooms available. Each comes with bath tub, private garden, rain shower as well as a healthy spa cuisine option.
Banyan Tree Phuket
With Ariel P. Vera as the key person for this spa, Banyan Tree Phuket is known as an extraordinary resort surrounded by the blue sea that will make you leave all your troubles behind. The award-winning architecture of the resort showcases the best of the romantic islands, perfect for a getaway with your loved ones. The employees at Banyan Tree Phuket are trained to put you at ease with their traditional Asian hospitality and world class service. Try the Royal Banyan Herbal Pouch Massage. It infuses East-meets-West techniques and a herbal pouch dipped in warm sesame oil for best soothing effect.
Chiva-Som
Chiva-Som has been described as “Haven of Life” and is located on the Gulf of Thailand. Founded by Khun Boonchu Rojanastien, Chiva-Som is all about the life of celebration while maintaining crucial elements of health and wellness. Aside from the usual massage and therapy, Chiva-Som also provides healthy cuisines that are both rich in taste and health benefits. Only the freshest products are being used together with fresh herbs and spices to ensure a remarkable dining experience. With perfect combination of Thai and international standard hospitality, friendly staff at Chiva-Som will make you feel right at ease leading the way towards the healthier you.
Kamalaya Koh Samui
Kamalaya Koh Samui is the perfect healthy-holiday destination that you have been looking for. The resort’s Wellness Sanctuary and Holistic Spa is an award winning spa that promises a number of wellness programs to cater to your mental and physical needs like detox, distressed, yoga, fitness and weight control. Clive McNish, the General Manager always ensures his team of international naturopaths are doing their best to help you create personalized health program from extensive range of holistic medicine, spa and healing therapies.The spa also offers self-exploration program called “The Embracing Change”.
Katiliya Mountain Resort & Spa
Katiliya’s luxurious ‘Spa on the Lake’ is a perfect place to ease away tensions and stress. Visitors can enjoy a variety of massages, body scrubs and facials all in the comfort of private treatment rooms. Managed by Nopporn Gritsanarungreung, each of the spa’s treatment room is equipped with a private shower and a sauna or steam room. Try the spa’s signature ‘Katiliya Wellness Program’ which gently cleanses your body with spa treatments and yoga sessions to increase the flow of positive energy into your system. Finish up with a cocktail of Thai organic fruit and vegetables, together with Thai herbs and minerals which further enhance the calming effects of the program.
Nakamanda Resort & Spa
Owned by Weera “Eric” Purinrak, this centre of serenity is located in Klong Muang area of Krabi which faces a small forested island with a setting of enchanting mountains emerging from the deep blue Andaman Sea. The spa overlooks the glittering beachfront pool and water fountains which are already a feast for the eyes on its own. The Naga Spa has six treatment rooms with a private changing and shower room each. There is a private garden waiting for you once you are done with your treatment. Just sit back, relax and enjoy your cup of tea. The spa offers a variety of massages and body treatments using aromatherapy oil, fresh fruit blends and herbs for a whole body relaxing experience.
Pimalai Spa
Pimalai Spa is charmingly hidden behind the hilltop resort lobby where it is quite windy. The air is so fresh that each time the wind blows you can smell the fresh scent of the valley. Nature is certainly a strong influence in creating the identity of this spa resort. Paninart Tiyaphorn, the current Managing Director, is on a mission to bring back his guests to the nature with village-style architecture and interior. The delightful small straw roofed Salas at the resort look like they actually belong to the jungle landscape. Treatments offered include body massages, body treatments, body wraps, facial treatments and beauty salon services.
Rayavadee Spa
The Rayavadee Spa’s wide-ranging line of therapies is based on ancient Thai healing methods and deep wellness philosophy. It combines effective body, mind and soul relaxation treatment which all takes place in its deluxe private settings. The Rayavadee Spa offers revitalizing facial and scrubs alongside whole body treatments like the energizing body wrap and soothing massages. There are also all kinds of salon treatments and spa packages which are specifically fashioned to cater to different needs of its visitors. This lavish spa is currently managed by Christophe Pointaux who oversees the entire operation and other maintenance aspects.
Sri Panwa Spa
Wan Vorasit Issara is the owner and Managing Director of Sri Panwa Luxury Resort Phuket which is the home to its very own ‘Cool Spa’. The spa is currently one of the Top 10 Luxury Spa Destinations in Phuket which makes it a must visit if you are looking to replenish your mind, body and spirit in a secluded rainforest setting. Located high above the Andaman Sea overlooking Phuket’s Archipelago, Cool Spa was designed to complement the oceanic view in its unmistakable tropical and contemporary elements. The spa is equipped with four spacious treatment rooms, a private salon and a floating yoga deck – all facing the magnificent view of the ocean.
Issue 7/2014