My top 5 Asia Detox Destinations...
Another mince pie and that extra glass of mulled wine are outrageously tempting, especially when everyone else is getting into the "spirit" of things.
If like me you follow a healthy lifestyle 10-12 months of the year you may be concerned that the festive season is going to send your healthy habits, into a downward spiral. Because once you start...
Ok, so let’s focus and be a little mindful on some health-focused rest and relaxation.
Let me take you to......
Bali - not as obvious as you might think. Away far from the madding crowds, to the north of this island paradise. Tucked away on the remote northeastern coast of Bali, you will find a sanctuary of peace and tranquillity, immersed in the gentle spirituality and age-old traditions of the Island of the Gods. Fringed by volcanic, black sand beaches, far away from the densely packed South, here one will find a truly intimate setting perfect to relax, rejuvenate and rediscover. In a hotel where ALL the staff are from local villages, this small 25 room adults-only luxury retreat exudes a subtle vibrancy that echoes true Bali - a land that time has forgotten. Sea breezes, peaceful nights, this is a holistic retreat focused on health and happiness.
Borneo - set amidst lush mangroves, Gaya Island is a tranquil hideaway surrounded by distinctive island flora and fauna. From the warm clear waters of Gaya and its rich lowland forests to the high altitude blossoms of Mount Kinabalu, treatments here utilise only the finest fresh local ingredients. A rich tapestry of spa programmes reflects the cultural healing traditions of Sabah's many indigenous people.
And if you thought Koh Samui was past its sell by - then let me surprise you. In an idyllic village retreat where age-old Thai spa therapies have been revived, integrating nature with an indoor/outdoor environment, and drawing from the island’s healing resources, individual treatment pavilions or salas, and a Yoga Sala, rest above the serene, meditative Gazing Pond. The therapeutic properties of natural local ingredients and age-old healing practices of the region are at play here whilst the residence pays respect to the environment, culture and traditions of Thailand to create holistic and rejuvenating spa programmes. Like the Songkran Shower, a pre-spa ritual inspired by the annual Songkran festival involving the joyful throwing of water, as a prelude to selected spa treatments.
Set in an emerald landscape of lush farmland and verdant jungle, your trip to the Cameron Highlands features healing therapies based on produce of the Orang Asli or 'original people' from the surrounding jungle and ancient tea rituals of the Colonial British pioneers. This authentic blending of culture and product is what makes the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia such a unique haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. This award-winning spa uses the tranquil emerald landscape of the highlands provides the perfect ambience for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Malacca is the world's only spa to base its therapies on the healing heritage of the Baba-Nyonya or Peranakan culture - a unique combination of Chinese and Malay influences. Treatments are designed to recapture energy that life's challenges remove. Based on Peranakan healing philosophy and inspired by traditional Chinese medicine, the spa therapies are moulded around a person's cool or warm energy. A visit here is a voyage into the heart of Malacca's rich culture. Inspired by the elaborate and colourful 12-day Peranakan Wedding Ceremony, every guest enjoys a pre-spa experience that includes a soothing hair care ritual. Therapies are moulded around a person's cool or warm energies based on Peranakan belief and inspired by traditional Chinese medicine. The combinations of age-old traditional remedies sourced from indigenous ingredients are believed to cleanse, replenish and reinvigorate, both physically and mentally. Come here to embrace the rich multicultural influences and life with a spa experience like no other.
For more information on any of these idyllic retreats please get in touch.
01736 370008 | vanessa.devere@travelcousellors.com