THAILAND by Medical Spas Review

ASIANS HAVE LONG INCORPORATED IN THEIR LIFESTYLES

THAILAND

the Land of Massage The good, the bad, and the ugly

THE CONCEPT OF HEALTH MAINTENANCE THROUGH PREVENTION

inverted parallel bars are positioned above. This is possible because therapists rarely weight more than 110 pounds! Another very common massage found in Thailand is the Foot Reflexology massage. Practitioners of this therapy can be found everywhere; in shopping malls, on beaches, you will find one on almost every street in Bangkok. Other massages found like the Balinese and the Tao combine physiological movements used in typical western massages like the Swedish and percussion strokes, and acupressure points stimulation found in Energy Massages. My purpose for traveling to Thailand was to attend the ISPA Asia convention. As an International trainer for Aspen Spa Management for over five years I was trained to perform and teach some fifteen different massages including Asian energy massages so, I was eager to see at the source how they were performed. During my trip I stayed in a number of resorts and four and five star hotels, all of which had Spas, all of them superbly decorated. Unlike some tourists who stay away from trying local day spas and massage parlors, I tried as many as I could and soon arrived at the conclusion that the local establishments offered massages that were technically far better than their resort counterparts! And at one tenth of the price!

A must in a lifetime and for those who cannot afford the trip, wait a little. Thai

I tried to find out why this was so, and discovered that most of the hotels and resorts train their own staff, sometimes using companies from the U.K. and Australia? When asked why they didn’t use local talents the answers had to do with difficulties in finding local trainers who could speak English and/or trainers that would accept to modify the protocols to make them easier to learn. The result is a standard massage protocol that is repeated for all the massages offered on the menu. The only difference being the oils used and perhaps the speed and rhythm of the treatment.

In Thailand there are many different types of massages. The “Classical Thai” is the most popular. There are two basic schools or styles; one from the North of the country, the other from the South and Center. They are typically taught in Buddhist temples, and recently regular massage schools have opened their doors to meet the ever increasing demand, linked to the extraordinary expansion of the Spa Industry in that country. The classical Thai massage is believed to alleviate sore muscles and tension by applying pressure on specific acupuncture points on the body, as well as stretching techniques that help ease joints and articulations. Traditionally this massage is performed on the floor on a soft mat, the person receiving the massage will wear loose fitting,“pajama like” clothing. There is a ritual associated with this massage, it starts with the therapist washing your feet in a wooden bucket filled with flower petals and offering a cup of green tea. Then the “pajamas” are given and the client will change into them and proceed to the massage room. In some cases the massage involves the therapist walking on the recipients back and

as common in America as Sushi

By LESLIE GLOVER hailand is known for its massages. Asians have long incorporated in their lifestyles the concept of health maintenance through “prevention”. That is the basis of Chinese Medicine and most Asian massages are developed around the philosophy of balancing the energies of the body for overall “good health”.

massage will soon be

An article on massage in Thailand would not be complete if the veil of mystery enveloping the sensual Thai massage was not lifted. Getting the information was difficult but thanks to the travel agent who organized my trip in the country I was able to interview the owner at one of the massage hotels. There are a number of massages found in Thailand that are very sensual and sexually stimulating: the “body- body” massage where the masseuse, who is almost nude, uses her entire body to massage. Using warm oils that have essential oils and or plant extracts added, the entire body is worked and kneaded with physiological massage strokes. In spite of the strong sexual stimulation, there is no sexual interaction between the client and the masseuse. Other types of purely sexual massages also exist and are available in very modern hotel like buildings where the client can choose from over a hundred young women therapists displayed behind a glass partition. The prices of services are based on the intricacy of the treatment and experience and skill of the therapist. In the eye’s of a tourist or from a western persons perspective this would be considered prostitution, and by definition it is, however in the Thai culture and many other Asian culture’s this is not looked upon negatively. The same types of massages are also offered in shady massage parlors found in areas where bars and nightclubs catering to tourists can be found. Those are the ugly ones! As they are very much like elsewhere, simply fronts for brothels. For those who have never traveled to Asia and not experienced Spa treatments, there are many massages; even the most mediocre will most likely be better than what they would be able to find in their home town. The kindness, permanent smiles and soft manners of the Thai people will absolutely overwhelm. Anyone who appreciates spa services and particularly massage has to make a trip to this wonderful country. A must in a lifetime and for those who cannot afford the trip, wait a little. Thai massage will soon be as common in America as Sushi restaurants! You cannot keep a good thing secret for long. ■

restaurants! You cannot keep a good thing secret for long.

CHIVA SOM HAS BEEN CREATED ON THE EUROPEAN MODEL

OF MEDICAL DESTINATION SPAS SUCH AS WOULD BE FOUND IN SWITZERLAND

Chiva Som By RAOUL ANDREW SUDRE

you arrive at the resort “they” greet you with “Welcome to Paradise”! The resort is located about 3 hours from Bangkok, in Hua-Hin. It is set in a beautiful setting but “Paradise” it is not. Created on the European model of medical destination spas such as would be found in Great Britain, Hungary, Germany, France or Switzerland, “Chiva Som” is well structured and very regimented with an array of Do’s and Don’ts. The closest thing to Chiva Som in the U.S. would be “Canyon Ranch”.

CHIVA SOM, A MEDICAL DESTINATION SPA, IS WELL STRUCTURED

The majority of guests come from the U.S. and Europe. Recently Russians and Turks have been coming. The U.S. accounts for about 10% of the clients.“Chiva Som” is well managed. Its Swiss G.M. Paul Linder has a great deal of experience running high-end properties: The Palace in St. Moritz for example and so he has that special European touch of class that makes guests feel welcome and feel like VIPs. The service there, as in all other four and five star properties in Thailand is superb. In an era where “service” is disappearing as snow under the sun, it is a true delight to patronize a resort where service is the way it should be. The food is quite tasty for “healthy fare”! Low fat, no salt, plenty of salads and veggies. In fact one of the restaurants by the pool serves a strictly Vegetarian menu. Liquor is not served at the resort, but wine and champagne can be ordered after 6:00pm. No beer though? Why? There are two main reasons. Wine and champagne bring a lot more money than beer and also to keep a classy image in a country that has been invaded by Australians and Brits who have, let us say: “gone out of control”?

AND VERY REGIMENTED WITH AN ARRAY OF DO’S & DONT’S

The spa is a supermarket of holistic and western medicine offerings. Doctors are on hand to perform various procedures such as laser depilation, dermabrasion, botox and other injections while an excellent foreign staff of naturopaths, acupuncturists, homeopaths offer services for detox, slimming and anti-aging. Local therapists perform the traditional “spa” treatments. The menu of massages, body treatments and facials is a bit antiquated and below the level you would expect at a “world ranked spa”! In a country known for its massages, it is a disappointment to have so little choice. In spite of that fact, the overall quality of the therapists exceeds that found in America or Europe, but it is inferior to what can be found in Day Spas and small massage parlors throughout the country. Of course everything is relative and for those who have not tried treatments outside of the resort they will probably have been satisfied.

THE CLOSEST THING TO CHIVA SOM, A MEDICAL

During my stay I tried several massages: 1.) The “Chiva Som”Signature Massage: which is a basic “Swedish Relaxation”massage has the merit of being a true “full body massage” including hands, feet, stomach, chest and butt. A welcome version when compared to the U.S. version. 2.) The Traditional Thai: was in fact a truncated version of the “Classic Thai” and quite inferior to those found everywhere in Thailand at ten times cheaper! 3.) The “Lymphatic” massage: which had nothing to do with any lymphatic manipulation! At best, the same “Chiva Som Massage” done a little slower.Very disappointing!

DESTINATION SPA, IN THE U.S. WOULD BE “CANYON RANCH”

minute massage per day. Everything else is “a la carte”a bit different from the European destinations which include 3 to 4 treatments per day. The European influence is there, nevertheless Champneys, Vichy Thermes, Royal Evian, Palace in Montreux, Quiberon have influenced the operation. Fortunately the Thai influence makes the regimented, clinical atmosphere less bothersome. Chinese medicine is the foundation of many treatments and the practitioners providing these treatments are excellent. Ken Rosen, an American acupuncturist with over 10 years experience and Mae Tanarrat Ymsuk who does an awesome Chinese Chi Nei Tsang (stomach massage) are among the dedicated staff members that guarantee a high quality of care. Part of the package is a large number of group classes: Tai Chi, Yoga, meditation, aerobics etc.. which are included in the price. Private trainers are also available at an additional charge. The majority of clients are between 25 and 45 years old except during the December to March period where the age median rises to above 65, mostly from older people from the U.K fleeing the cold weather.

4.) The Energizing massage: basically was the same as the others! Management is very protective of its clients and do not encourage them to try local restaurants or businesses insinuating hygiene and security problems. Upon arrival and shortly after check in, guests are scheduled for a “consultation”. A welcome step to allow them to ask questions but mostly a good occasion for staff to sell “extra” services. A stay at Chiva Som is full board and one 40

The ownership of the resort is planning the opening of another “Chiva Som” in the northern region of the country; it will be larger and hopefully updated. For those looking for an exotic experience in Asia that is not too far out from an American perception, Chiva Som is a good choice. If you can afford it, you will enjoy it. If, you are bold enough, while in Thailand GO to the small day spas and massage parlors and experience the unadulterated real massage experience of the country. ■

THE BANYAN TREE RESORT WAS SPARED FROM THE TSUNAMI

AND ITS NATURAL BEAUTY CONTINUES TO AMAZE THE TRAVELER

“The Laguna” that was earmarked for luxury hotels it is constructed around canals and water features that bring calm and peace to the area. The resorts are connected by shuttle buses and shuttle boats, so guests staying at the Banyan Tree can also use the facilities

BANYAN TREE PHUKETT

and services of the other resorts in the “Laguna area”.

By RAOUL ANDREW SUDRE

here are some mythical destinations in the world and Phukett in Thailand is certainly one. Only six months after the Tsunami hit that part of the country life was back to normal, most of the damage repaired. The “Banyan Tree” resort was spared and its natural beauty continues to amaze the traveler. Built on a parcel of land; “The Laguna” that was earmarked for luxury hotels is constructed around canals and water features that bring calm and peace to the area. The resorts are connected by shuttle buses and shuttle boats, so guests staying at the Banyan Tree can also use the facilities and services of the other resorts in the “Laguna area”. The “Banyan Tree

Phukett” is the flagship of the company with 115 luxuriously appointed villas. Some of the villas have their own private pools; some have their own in villa spas. The Spa at the resort has 12 Thai style spa pavilions where a variety of treatments can be received individually or for couples in an intimate atmosphere. No doubt a most romantic setting, and ideal “honeymoon destination”. There are a number of exquisite restaurants on the property, all different, all exceptional. Since the resort is quite spread out, a 24 hour service of golf cart transportation is available to move around from one area to the other. In suite dining is an extraordinary experience. Whether it is

THE SPA AT THE BANYAN TREE IS LOCATED IN A SUPERB SETTING

AND THE SPA PAVILIONS ARE JUST A DELIGHT

One cannot understand the word “service” until having had the opportunity to witness Asian service in general and Thai service in particular. To make every client feel as if they are a V.I.P. is the norm there rather than the exception.

Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner, two or three valets come to your villa, set up the table, prepare and serve the fares. One cannot understand the word “service” until having had the opportunity to witness Asian service in general and Thai service in particular. To make every client feel as if they are a V.I.P. is the norm there rather than the exception. The Spa at the Banyan Tree is no exception to that rule, the setting is superb and the spa pavilions where most of the treatments are provided are just a delight. In a country where massage is an intimate part if the Thai culture, the delivery of the services were somewhat disappointing. The different massages that I ordered; the Lomi-Lomi and the Balinese were only different in their title. In no way were they what they purported to be…essentially the same which for many would not be noticed but savvy clients now do know the differences.

In my case I have spent long periods of time both in Hawaii and Bali where, I designed Spas and had the opportunity not only to receive their native massages but also to learn them from local practitioners. The best way to explain this idiosyncrasy is to assume that these resorts cut corners on training and assume that most clients won’t notice. Unfortunately even if this might have been true in the past, it is no longer so today. So like with most spas in hotels and resorts in Thailand, the hardware is spectacular, the software is disappointing, and to receive exceptional treatments the best way to get them is to go outside of the resort to Day Spas and Massage Parlors of which there are many to experience the real thing…and at a tenth of the price! ■

CHI, THE SPA AT THE SHANGRI-LA, EMBRACES A HOLISTIC APPROACH

THE DHEVA SPA AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL IS A DESTINATION SPA IN ITSELF

The

CHI,

DHEVA SPA

at Mandarin Oriental

Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi is a tribute to the glory and splendour of Lanna architecture. Unparalleled luxury and exotic artefacts abound in all the villas and suites. Offering some of the world’s most spacious and exclusive accommodation, the 123 luxurious colonial suites, pavilions & villas, the residences and theme suites have been locally handcrafted in keeping with traditional Lanna architecture and feature many beautiful antiques. Spacious open terraces, some of which feature private plunge pools, exquisitely designed interiors and seamless technology all contribute to an overall atmosphere of luxury and serenity. DHEVA SPA AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL Dheva, pronounced ‘day-va’, is the Sanskrit word for celestial beings that inhabit the heavenly realm. Dhevas led a blissful existence, blessed with the benefit of a powerful karmic rebirth. The Dheva Spa at Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi is a destination spa in itself with 32,000 square foot dedicated to relaxation and well being. Modelled on the Burmese royal palace that stood near Mandalay in Myanmar, the spa lobby is located at its centre with an impressive seven-tier roof symbolizing the seven steps to heaven, or nirvana. Situated in a cluster of teak buildings, next to the resort’s Villa Lobby it comprises 25 treatment rooms and suites. All treatment suites have been created to ensure a truly indulgent experience that can be enjoyed alone or together. Each suite has a private Jacuzzi, steam shower, heated marble scrub marble and private treatment and relaxation area. The Dheva Spa prides itself on the broad range of therapies and spacious treatment rooms and suites. An extensive spa menu offers many treatments that are unique to Thailand, and relaxation rituals that are inherent to the Lanna culture. To guarantee high standards of excellence, a team of skillful therapists are on hands to take care of our guests in the manner of ancient Thai royal protocol. The Dheva Spa is operated by Dr Suchada Marwah, who has extensive experience of practicing in alternative medicine and holistic therapies in Thailand and India. Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi is now developing an Ayurvedic Centre. The centre is run by Dr. Rajeev Marwah, a much respected Ayurvedic doctor in Thailand and India. ■

The Spa at the Shangri-La

ocated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok is set in beautiful tropical gardens and enjoys convenient access to the central business and shopping districts. Only 30 minutes from the international airport and adjacent to a Skytrain station, the 5-star deluxe hotel is a preferred choice for business and leisure travelers. Consistently voted one of the best hotels in the world, Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok boasts unrivaled business services in an elegant and exotic setting. CHI, THE SPA AT SHANGRI-LA

Featuring the largest and most luxurious private spa suites in

The Spa at the Shangri-La, embraces a holistic approach to physical and spiritual wellbeing. Inspired by traditional Asian healing philosophies, the treatments are based upon the principles of restoring balance and harmony to mind and body.

Bangkok, complete with memorable

Featuring the largest and most luxurious private spa suites in Bangkok, complete with memorable bathing and herbal steam facilities, CHI gives the luxury of personal space and timelessness to indulge senses, soothe body and revitalise spirit.

CHI gives the luxury of personal

Surrender to CHI's signature treatments, the intuitive touch of Therapists and the restorative powers of fragrant oils, aromatic herbs and spices. PHILOSOPHY In traditional Chinese philosophy, "chi" is the universal life force that governs well-being and personal vitality. For people to maintain good health, it is believed that chi must flow freely within the body, and when blocked, "dis-ease" and illness follow. Movement is therefore a key element in releasing these natural blockages. Exercise, stretching, massage, hydrotherapy and movement of the mind through relaxation and meditation combine to assist the body's natural renewal and form the basis of the CHI, The Spa philosophy. Developed by a team of experts, CHI's signature therapies are based on the Five Elements Theory, in which Metal, Water, Wood, Fire and Earth are in balance to harmonise with the positive Yang and negative Yin energy within the body. For balance to occur, the harmony of Yin and Yang must be restored. Discover your personal Element Signs CHI also draws inspiration from the origin of the Shangri-La legend, high in the mystical Himalayan mountains. From this magical world, secrets are revived and re-created to bring you, for the first time, a unique spa concept fusing ancient healing traditions, philosophies and rituals from China and the Himalayas. ■

bathing and herbal steam facilities,

space and timelessness to indulge senses, soothe body and revitalise spirit.