WELLNESS IN CAMBODIA
It is fair to say that Wellness is a relatively new word in the Cambodian tourist industry and compared to options in Thailand and perhaps Vietnam, options are more limited. However this is sure to change in the years to come and the choices available currently can easily combine with exploration of the temples, relaxation on the coast and some healthy dining amongst plentiful restaurants.
Relaxation, rebalancing and recuperation can take many forms and nearly all 4 and 5 star hotels, and many boutiques, offer a quality spa. Besides the hotels then a couple of highly recommended spas are Bodia Spa http://www.bodia-spa.com/ to be found in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh and Sokkhak Spa in Siem Reap http://sokkhakspa.com/ .
The obvious place to start is in Siem Reap and the ideal wellness retreat is Navutu Dreams Resort & Spa http://navutudreams.com/ . Daily yoga classes and Wellness Programmes are coordinated by Francois Chaillou who has worked at Chiva Som, Thailand and has worked with many famous stars and royalty. Francois teaches daily classes of Iyengar and Sivananda Yoga and practices Shiatsu massage. The resident yoga teacher at Navutu Dreams is Siri Atma who has trained with Yogi Bhajan, the master of Kundalini Yoga. She offers Sat Nam Healings and Gong Therapy. Siri’s two fold practice of Yoga and Counseling cover a variety of problems and needs, helping to induce positive life changes and a general feeling of well-being. Components of her methods include Yoga, Movement, Meditation and Stress Management. Acupuncture, cupping and auriculotherapy are all available at Navutu Dreams and various programmes are offered including 1 day or 2.5 days Detox, 3 or 5 day burn out programmes and Weekend Re-Shape Gateways. Compliment the mind, body and soul by chilling out at the resorts three pools and dining at their healthy restaurant, Niam Niam.
One of the most relaxing resorts in Cambodia is Knai Bang Chatt, http://www.knaibangchatt.com/ located in the seaside town of Kep. The exclusive retreat appeals to those who seek privacy and personalised service amongst lush grounds with charming views of the Gulf of Siam. Yoga and Meditation are part of the spa programme offered at Knai Bang Chatt and their staff can guide you through one or more series of basis exercises, breathing and meditation that can enhance the benefits of massage and other treatments. Regular yoga and meditation retreats are the perfect way to rejuvenate the mind and body and with the resorts beautiful pool and fine dining options it is not a surprise many guests have extended stays at Knai Bang Chatt.
Over at Song Saa Private Island http://songsaa.com/ , Cambodia’s premier retreat, the entire main island is a sanctuary where regenerative sites, outdoor salas and discreet treatment villas nestle in the serenity of the rainforest, and along the ocean shore. Guests can draw inspiration and energy from the ocean, the rainforest and the tropical birdlife, to relax, rejuvenate and reconnect with inner peace and joy. Practitioners combine traditional Khmer techniques with ayurvedic principles, chakra-clearing, massage, carefully designed spa cuisine and guided meditations to create a unique and transformative guest experience. Beginning with a private consultation with their Head of Wellness, a truly bespoke programme is designed for guests integrating treatments, diet and other activities that will refresh, rejuvenate and revive. The 27 villas at Song Saa, all with private pool, offer an intimate and exclusive way to experience Wellness in the Kingdom of Cambodia.
Travel Asia can assist with arranging wellness retreats, spa packages and of course hotel and tour bookings, to take your mind away from the stress of planning and into thoughts of a relaxing adventure during your trip to Cambodia. Contact us at info@travelasia.travel for further details.
