Last week, House of Coco Lifestyle Writer, Helena, was invited into the world of Chiva-Som, with a wellness breakfast and treatments hosted by luxury Thai health retreat in an enviable location in the heart of Chelsea.The absolutely beautiful Ashberg House was the setting for Chiva-Som’s delightful breakfast, and after doing a bit of star spotting en route (I think strolling past Hugh Grant counts), I was given a taste of Thailand in the stunning £28m home.
Chiva-Som is a luxury health retreat, set within seven acres of lush tropical gardens on the beachfront of the royal resort of Hua Hin, just 185 kilometres south of Bangkok and easily accessible by road and air. Asia’s first internationally acclaimed health resort, Chiva-Som which in Thai means “Haven of Life”, is a pioneer in combining traditional Asian therapies with western health and wellness. Thailand’s most luxurious destination spa remains unique in its dedication to total wellness, as evidenced by its comprehensive and extensive services ranging from nurturing spa to high-tech medical, and the world-class caliber of its practitioners and therapists. Grounded firmly in the belief that it is the combined health of the mind, body and spirit that leads to personal fulfillment, Chiva-Som is truly holistic in its approach. Each guest is considered not only in terms of his or her immediate mental, physical and spiritual needs, but also encouraged to embark and be guided on an ongoing journey to a healthier, happier lifestyle. I sampled the latest spa cuisine innovations by the resort’s culinary team, the resort’s head of cuisine, Chef Paisarn Cheewinsiriwat creating his own cookbook recipes along with a healthy menu which doesn’t compromise on taste stressing on the importance of balance in your diet. I was impressed, to say the least by the healthy alternative to Nutella and blown away by the absolutely delicious homemade fresh muesli which is a favourite among both guests and staff at Chiva-Som. The first rule at Chiva-Som is to forget the notion that diet and nutrition equate to uninspiring food – the innovative daily menus attest to this belief. To complement guests’ health and fitness programme, Chiva-Som offers gourmet spa cuisine prepared and presented by a team of Thai master chefs using fresh and wholesome herbs, vegetables and fruits grown in the health resort’s own organic garden.
I was fortunate to sample a neck back and shoulder massage with Senior Spa Therapist Saisamon Sriyoha, this treatment is based on Chiva-Som’s full length remedial style Deep Tissue Massage, during this session the therapist worked to loosen tight muscles around the neck and shoulders while simultaneously assessing how much tension held within the body and how best to release it. To top of the experience, the treatment was held in the gorgeous swimming pool area of the house where you can’t help but sense the calming Thai vibes.
Chiva-Som’s strict policy of no children, no mobile phones and no computers ensures that the stresses of modern day life are completely removed. Which, of course, guarantees ultimate relaxation. Careful attention has been paid to creating treatments and programmes that are personalised to the needs and desires of each individual guest. On arrival, guests receive a private consultation with a Health and Wellness Consultant to determine their current state of health and ascertain any goals they wish to achieve from their visit. For guests simply wanting to relax, the peace and tranquility are unparalleled. Manicured gardens, reflection pools, elegant Thai design and the gentle lapping of waves on the quiet beach restore a sense of harmony with nature that calms the soul. Set alongside the beach is an outdoor pool for swimming, water sports and open-air relaxation.
We’re not sure about you but #TeamCoco are completely sold and have already starting planning a get away to Chiva-Som! If the delightful staff are anything to go by, we will be looking forward to a true Thai welcome, the contagious energy and a beneficial much-needed break for the mind, body and soul.Rates at Chiva-Som start from £415 per person, per night based on two people sharing.www.chivasom.com
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