Bangkok Spas and Health

Thailand enjoys a world-wide reputation for its tranquil spas and retreats. In Bangkok, the traditional arts of Thai massage, a rather vigorous but highly invigorating experience, have been combined with a series of modern, holistic treatments such as body wraps, facials and mud-baths to give a visitor to one of Bangkok’s many spas a soothing and relaxing experience; the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

There is a large choice of spas and retreats around Bangkok, which range from the brief but refreshing short-stop treatment to the complete and utter luxury of a full day’s pampering. Most of the high-end hotels such as the Oriental, Holiday Inn, Dusit and the Marriot all contain their own in-house spas. Also, there are a number of world-class private spas dotted around the city, the most notable of these being the Mandara and Aspara Spas.

A perfect blend of ancient Eastern traditional treatments with the more modern, Western approach, these spas in Bangkok are simply wonderful. All the stresses and strains of modern life will be scrubbed, massaged and cleaned away, leaving you feeling like a new person.

The Ananda Spa, (tel: +66 (0) 2 255-7200) located next to the President Solitaire Serviced Apartments on Sukhumvit lane 11 allows guests to escape the busy streets of Bangkok and enter another world. The spa has a number of private rooms which all contain Jacuzzis, showers and relaxation areas. The spa offers a huge range of spa treatments at competitive prices.

The Divana Spa,(tel: +66 (0) 2 661 6784) a notable name in Bangkok spas treatment, has recently opened a new spa and wellbeing centre called ‘DVN’ on Sukhumwit lane 35, opposite the Emporium Department Store and very close to the Prmophong BTS Station. Placed in a two-storey Thai house and surrounded by lush tropical gardens, the centre contains nine private couple rooms and 17 treatment beds. Each room has its own design and theme. The spa offers a wide range of treatments all designed to relieve stress and relax visitors.
The Mandara brand is a well-known name to spa users. Their unique blend of Eastern and Western techniques is sure to soothe even the most stressed out of visitors. The Mandara Spas ’ signature treatment is performed by two therapists working together in perfect harmony for the ultimate massage. The Mandara Spa has outlets in the Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel (tel: + 66 (0) 2 261 9000), the Royal Sheraton Hotel and the Bangkok Marriot Resort and Spa (tel: + 66 (0) 2 476 0022).

The Aspara Spa at the Hotel Plaza Athenee (tel: +66 (0) 2 650 8800) offers four separate ‘Couple Spa Packages’. For just 5,800 baht, a couple can enjoy a full range of treatments in a perfect romantic day together.

The Orientist Spas is a unique and exclusive place where visitors can truly relax and escape the stress and strain of modern life. The Spa uses traditional Thai herbs and techniques to give visitors the full benefit of thousands of years’ experience. The Orientist Spa has two branches; one is at 69 Phaholyothin Road, Soi 6 (tel: + 66 (0) 2 278 2240). The other is 1111/148 Lad Phrao Road, Chantatakrasem, Chatuchak (tel: + 66 (0) 2 513 7605).

Spa I Am is a haven of peace and relaxation within the heart of bustling Bangkok. Its 26 private rooms are all fitted out with Jacuzzis, saunas and steam rooms. There is a beauty salon on hand to ensure you look as good as you feel. Spa I Am is based on Ladprao 18, Bangkok (tel: +66 (0) 2 938 4888).

Another popular form of cleansing that has taken root in Bangkok over the past few years is detoxification. Always popular in the East, but now being practised by health-nuts and party-goers alike, these techniques aim to rid the body of toxins over a relatively short period. Places like the Rasayana Retreat and Hydro Health over a selection of different programmes that range from one day to a month.

As advantageous as all the luxury and tranquility of these spas and retreats are, a visitor to Bangkok should not neglect the more rustic and down to earth relaxation on offer on the streets of Bangkok. There are often small and friendly massage venues dotted around, which offer one or two hours of massage for a very small fee. Also, exercise and relaxation can easily be found in Bangkok’s parks and temples.

If you cannot make it to the Bangkok spas there are plenty more provided in the beach resorts as well as Chiang Mai which has an abundance of good value spas.

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