 Given
its history, it seems inevitable now that Thailand
should be hailed as one of the spa capitals of the world. Although
the spa was essentially a European invention, the Thais have adapted
it to their tradition of holistic healing for body and mind that
goes far back in time to ancient India and China.
A harmonious blend of cultural heritage and destination diversity
has made Thailand an infinitely
attractive spa destination. Thailand
is Buddhist society, and all aspects of Buddhist expression radiate
a sense of tranquility, harmony, inner peace and calm, thus forming
a natural complement in the Mind, Body and Spirit equation.
Nuad pan boran is a form of Thai massage designed as a practical
application of the Buddhist concept of metta, loving kindness. It
emphasises the mind/body connection, and with a skilled therapist
it can also be treat emotional problems.
The Thai spa experience today rests on four distinctive qualities.
Firstly, the spas themselves are aesthetically pleasing with a Thai
atmosphere that is instinctively appreciated by visitors. Then,
the welcome accorded by pleasant, smiling staff and therapists is
always the first stage in the treatment, gently placing the visitor
in the role of an honoured guest who is in soothing, caring hands.
Next, there are the world famous Thai massage and traditional healing
techniques which are the basis of the treatment; and finally, the
spirit of this deep tradition itself permeates the occasion —
a tradition of service, of healing, and giving pleasure and comfort.
Thai spas now compete on an equal footing with the cosmopolitan
capitals of the world. Since 1999, they have figured in the world’s
top five: The
Oriental Bangkok, the Banyan
Tree Phuket, Four
Seasons Resort Chiang Mai and Amanpuri
Phuket. Chiva-Som International Health Resort was rated the
world’s number one destination spa.
|
The
convivial enjoyment of 
