When you think of a spa vacation, do you imagine being pampered to perfection or pounded into shape? Are you more intrigued by the idea of an ocean-side hot stone massage or a ten-mile hike in the mountains?
THAILAND 2011
Thailand has become well known worldwide for its many attractions. Many attractions can all over the country, offering visitors interesting knowledge of Thai culture to be found uniquely.
For instance, there are numerous Buddhist temples that the tourist can visit to learn about the national religion co Thailand. In Bangkok, the capital city of the country, there are many important temples. One of the most important temples is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, where a Buddhist image made from a large Emerald is kept. The Temple of Dawn is also in Bangkok on the bank of the chao Phraya River. These are only two of the many important Buddhist Temples in the Bangkok area. There are many more throughout the country.
The best spa vacations can offer the opening to rejuvenate weary minds, bodies and spirits in luxurious surroundings or physically keen agendas in sparse accommodations. Spend the hours in meaningful meditation or learning Yoga. Or pass the time following a regimented program filled with body-toning endurance activities.
Hua Hin Guesthouse
There have never been more tempting options in spa vacations and in some of the most exotic locations nearby the world. When a spa is the destination, the choice is yours.
Romance
Six Senses Hideaway, Hua Hin, Thailand
More and more couples and honeymooners are selecting to either begin or renew their relationships at destination spas nearby the world. For unparalleled privacy and a world class romantic retreat, the Six Senses consistently ranks as one of the best. Bath Spa Rituals with names such as Heart Chakra Milk Spa and Romantic Petals may put you in moon to tie the knot with a Hideaway Wedding, other specialty of the resort. Reach the spa by driving or flying a shuttle from the Bangkok International Airport.
Weight Loss
Canyon Ranch, Tucson, Arizona, Usa
Since 1979, the Canyon Ranch has been an encouraging source of change for those seeking a healthier way of living. Their diplomatic but efficient motto inspires participants with “The Power of Possibilities.” Fitness director Katherine Brumfield prefers the term “lifestyle change” over “diet” at the resort and spa. Wholesome gourmand meals have supplanted the meager servings of lettuce and fruit that were once coarse at weight-loss spas. Daily walks, lectures and an devotee team of physicians and nutritionists guide the path. The remarkable backdrop of the painted desert mountains more than eases the transition.
Yoga
Los Altos De Eros, Costa Rica
Serious Yoga practitioners are returning year after year to renew the body and spirit at this adults only, five-star spa in the hills of Costa Rica. Sunrise and sunset Yoga classes, a Yoga immersion program and exceptional spa treatments in one of the most tranquil settings on earth make for a fully rejuvenating experience. Guests rave about the all-natural Yoga cuisine and complementary fruit smoothies. Should you conclude to explore the island you’ll find lots to do nearby in the small settlement of Tamarindo. For a change of pace there’s a vibrant nightlife, sports fishing and a gorgeous beach at Playa Avellanas. Fly into the Liberia Airport where a representative will greet you and drive you to the resort.
Adventure
The Island Experience, Ilha Grande, Brazil
The spa caress comes full circle by combining luxury and adventure on a wonderful island off Rio de Janeiro. The week long program maintains a focus on spiritual renewal while keen you physically with sea kayaking, snorkeling and hiking. One guest summarized their week at the resort as “Indiana Jones and the Spa Break.” Arrive in paradise via the Rio International airport where you will be met at the gate and secretly transportable to the lodge.
Golf
The Westin Turnberry Resort, Scotland
Pure heaven for the uncompromising sportsman may very well be found here at the Westin. The best spa in Scotland happens to be the site of two championship golf courses, archery, horseback riding and mountain biking. The award-winning spa offers the choice of a fast-paced fitness studio or the serenity of hydrotherapy, reflexology and holistic body care treatments. Why not indulge in both while viewing its magnificent stretch of the Atlantic coastline? Glasgow International and Glasgow Prestwick airports are within an hour’s drive and Edinburgh International airport is under two hours away.
http://www.turnberry.co.uk
Eco-Friendly Escape
Daintree Eco-Lodge & Spa, Daintree Rainforest, Queensland, Australia
The Daintree may be about as green as it gets for the ecologically-minded spa traveler. Massages and therapies inspired by Aboriginal traditions are administered in the lush natural surroundings of a rainforest. You’ll explore secluded pristine waterfalls and dine on contemporary Australian cuisine with a native twist. Each of the 15 well-appointed villas surprisingly offers all the amenities you’d expect of a more urban location. The lodge is a scenic 90-minute drive north of the Cairns International Airport.
http://www.daintree-ecolodge.com.au
Family Friendly
Adler Thermae Spa & Wellness Resort, Sienna, Tuscany, Italy
Many of the great destination spas are family cordial but few can correlate with this Italian oasis. Parents tour the immense wine cellar or soak in thermal medical waters while children are entertained at the favorite Kid’s Club or Teen Lounge. Even the fussiest kids will love the workshops, barbeques, movies and water games designed especially for them. The whole family can spend time together horseback riding in the Orcia Valley, mountain biking or dining poolside on authentic Tuscan cuisine. Arrive by air through Perugia, Florence or Rome.
http://www.adler-thermae.com
Fitness
Amansala, Tulum, Mexico
Amansala makes the list for its acclaimed Bikini Boot Camp in an “eco-chic” environment. Forget the fancy amenities and plush accommodations; there are no televisions in the rustic-but-stylish cabanas. The Amansala doctrine is to get you into shape with beach or jungle power walking, body sculpting and power ab sessions. For any “downtime” there’s meditation, Mayan Clay spa treatments and fullness of sunshine. Tulum is settled about two hours south of Cancun near the historic Mayan ruins.
http://www.amansala.com
Holistic Healing
Grail Springs, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Among the best spa destinations in health and wellness is Grail Springs. Guests are introduced to the Grail Holistic Lifestyle as a healthier way of living and a path to longevity. They offer a allinclusive menu of health boosting tonics, organic meals and anti-aging treatments. Evening lectures, life coaches and meditation classes are a treat for the mind and soul. Yoga, Pilates and cardio-strengthening workouts are a part of the daily activities through individually customized plans. The Feng Shui certified interior is filled with antique tapestries stone fireplaces, making this castle-like spa destination the perfect retreat.
http://www.grailsprings.com
Absolute Luxury
Banyan Tree Desert Spa & Resort Al Areen, Manama, Bahrain
Experience incomparable six-star luxury and immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Middle East at this architectural masterpiece. The tiny Arabian Gulf island is a cultural fusion of antique Greek, Portuguese and Arabic sway with an old-world charm, reminiscent of the fabled ‘Arabian Nights’. This is the visually remarkable resort where true spa connoisseurs live like royalty, if only for a few days. The Bahrain International Airport is only thirty minutes away.
The Top Ten International Spa Destinations