AsiaSpa

asiaSpa
November/December 2017
THE 10
MINDFUL TOP
AYURVEDIC
ISSUE RETREATS
Luxury – Travel – Wellness
CLEAN BEAUTY
VIPASSANA MEDITATION
AUDIOVISUAL WELLNESS
ROMANTIC
TRAIN TRAVEL
OMAN
OBSESSION
Hong Kong, China HK$48 • Singapore S$8 (inc GST)

Malaysia M$20 • Thailand B200 • China Rmb60
Philippines P285 • Indonesia RP70,000 (inc tax)
Australia AUS$8 • New Zealand NZ$8 • Japan ¥1,500 • South Korea W6,000
Taiwan, China NT$200 • Rest of Asia US$7 • USA US$8 • Rest of world €7
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Contents NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017
82
Features
Smooth Moves
70 Where the Mind Goes, the Body Follows
Inner Retreat
74 Antidote to City Living – Wellness Rejuvenation
Retreat at Fivelements Hong Kong
Well-Being
82 Inside Information – Advice from Experts
88 Mindfulness Amped
Top 10
94 Ayurvedic Retreats
Destinations
130
100 On the Right Track – Train Travel
108
116
Destination Wellness: Luxury Cruising
Oman Obsession 70
The Great Escape
124 On the Eastern Edge – Tanjong Jara Resort
24 Hours in
130 Hamilton Island
AsiaSpa Awards 2017

132 Shortlist for the 13th annual AsiaSpa Awards
6 AsiaSpa November/December 2017

Contents NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017
Departments
12 Editor’s Note
16
38
Ultimate Unwind
Guide to Stylish Spas
24 Latest Escapes
Hideaways for Your Next Stay
32 Essentials
Skincare
Palette
What’s Hot
Eco Vibe
For Him
What’s Happening
40 Spa Healer
Daniel Mitel
42 Expert Take
Comfort Zone’s Barbara Gavazzoli
44 First Impression
Thalgo
46 Behind The Scenes

Séla Ancient Minerals 74
48 In the Know
Your Questions Answered
50 Spy Journey 60 Spa Men

Zensa Spa at Studio City Macau Vipassana
52 Calendar 62 Spa Trends November/December 2017
Upcoming highlights Audio-visual Entrainment THE 10

MINDFUL TOP
54 64
AYURVEDIC
Spa Trade Tête-À-Tête ISSUE RETREATS
Industry Events Sunita Passi CLEAN BEAUTY

56 66
Spa Beauty The Look

Clean Sweep Conversation Pieces
58 67 Style Nomad
ROMANTIC
Spa Nutrition TRAIN TRAVEL

OMAN
OBSESSION
Mindful Eating Veronica Li
68
Heaven Scent
New Fragrances
ON THE
140 Society Highlights COVER
Who’s in the Spotlight
145 Travel & Wellness Guide Beautiful woman practicing yoga |

Overviews and Promotions Thinkstock.com
160 Hot Spot

Relais Christine, Paris
162 Light Bites

Farmer’s Cafe, Mumbai
164 Bucket List
56
Aman Sveti Stefan, Montenegro

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Australia / New Zealand: (61) 2 9212 6288 India – Mumbai: (91) 22 7100 2888 Malaysia – Penang: (604) 2631 128
China: (86) 400 849 9848 India – New Delhi: (91) 11 4107 7900/01/02 Philippines: (63) 2 8366 830/31/32
Hong Kong: (852) 2317 7711 Indonesia: (62) 21 2992 2890/2904/2905 Singapore: (65) 6223 0002
India – Ahmedabad: (91) 79 2630 8099 Japan: (81) 3 6403 5188 Taiwan: (886) 2 2175 9562
India – Bangalore: (91) 99 0096 3807 Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur: (603) 2302 1288 Thailand: (66) 2 235 7838
Dream Cruises reserves the right to cancel and/or substitute any information contained herein at any time and for any reason whatsoever without notice. Photos are for reference only. dreamcruiseline.com
EDITORIAL CIRCULATION INTERNATIONAL MEDIA
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Véronique Lo Sarah Law
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Editor’sNote
In the Now
“In today’s rush, we all think too much –
seek too much – want too much –
and forget about the joy of just being”
~ Eckhart Tolle
Living in the moment – a simple concept, perhaps not as easily executed. If only it were a
breeze to filter out the barrage of drifting thoughts and bask in just being. The benefits of
not getting bogged down by the past, or panicking about tomorrow are clear, so why can
focusing on the present seem nearly impossible?
When you’ve experienced a fleeting minute of mindfulness, whether zoning out in nature
or savasana post yoga, it’s easy to understand the appeal of reaching that point. Even a few
seconds free from worry, expectation, criticism, however self-inflicted, can do wonders.
And the possibility that we can achieve it on our own with a little practice is motivation
enough to embrace any technique, class or app.
Thinking of nothing, or everything, seem to be the two main approaches to meditation,

the fast track to mindfulness. The vagueness in itself can be enough to put off sceptics, so
finding a method that comes to you naturally can make all the difference. For example
concentrating on colour could be effective for a visual person, whereas music may be more
relatable to those attuned to sound. Whatever works for you.
Neither mindfulness nor meditation need take place within a tranquil, candlelit sanctuary.
That’s the goal anyway – to be able to tune out distractions when savouring a meal, or better
yet, tackling crowds between meetings in a frenzied metropolis. And the skill of noticing
surroundings, sounds, sensations and your breath in any situation is the best brain training.
To give you a head start, this issue lets you in on how to eat with intent (p.58), vipassana
meditation for better emotional intelligence (p.60) and the role technology plays in ramping
up self-awareness (p.88).
Mind over matter indeed.
Stephanie Shiu
Editor-in-Chief
stephanie@bluincmedia.com

Contributors
ELLE KWAN EMILY MCCABE JUDY CHAPMAN KATE WHITEHEAD
Elle Kwan grew up in the UK but Emily McCabe is a Hong Kong- Judy Chapman is the former Kate Whitehead is a Hongkonger
has called Hong Kong home for based lifestyle journalist. A keen Editor-in-Chief of Spa Asia and has made the city her
almost a decade. In that time and intrepid traveller, design and magazine and author of four home since she was eight. She’s
she has written on health, food, fashion aficionado, obsessed books on spas. Over the past been on staff at the Hong Kong
fashion and living, interviewing with the local culinary culture. 20 years, she has explored the Standard, South China Morning
everyone from Michelin-starred She writes about contemporary world, creating award-winning Post and edited Cathay Pacific’s
chefs to movie stars. In this design, cutting-edge beauty spa concepts, beauty products Discovery magazine. She writes
issue she talks about how to eat treatments, local culinary and treatment experiences. for CNN, Time, SCMP and BBC
mindfully so both body and soul culture and travel. For the She lives between Bali and Travel. In this issue, Whitehead
benefit (p.58). current issue, she looks into the New York. This time, Chapman rediscovers the romance of train
growing awareness of cosmetic experiences Oman’s fragrant spa travel (p.100).
ingredients and its impact on the rituals (p.116).
beauty industry (p.56).
RANA GOOD ROB MCGOVERN VICKI WILLIAMS ZOE LOUISE CRONK
Rana Good is a writer for Rob McGovern is a British Vicki Williams is a freelance Self-confessed fitness junkie Zoe
publications such as AFAR, freelance writer who has worked journalist, who has lived in Hong Louise Cronk is a London-based
Mens Journal and My Domaine. in both publishing and PR in Kong for over 10 years. She is freelance writer who spends her
Originally from Switzerland, Seoul, Hong Kong and Macau. a specialist in travel, food and days combining her passions
she now calls NYC home, but is His writing interests vary from lifestyle writing, with a passion for health, wellness and the
happiest when she’s on a plane biking and hiking to food and for the good life. Her articles written word. Her endless list
travelling to a new destination. wine, but he is most happy have appeared in newspapers, of must-visit travel destinations
She scours the globe for the strolling around a new city while magazines and websites, has carried her across the globe.
best beauty treatments, most eating something that looks a including BBC Travel, CNN For this issue, she sits down with
luxurious hotels and stunning tiny bit suspect from a local food Travel, South China Morning several experts from the wellness
sites to report about. For this stall. This time, he handpicks Post, The Peak, and Appetite. In industry to find out how to
issue, she looks at how light and some of the most luxurious this issue, she investigates the achieve work-life balance in the
sound can facilitate wellness health retreats at sea (p.108). relationship between technology modern world (p.82).
(p.62). and mindfulness (p.88).

Close your eyes, you are in Provence.
Globally renowned skincare brand from Provence, L’OCCITANE offers its expertise to 92 Spas in 30 countries.
At Spa L’OCCITANE, simply close your eyes to travel to Provence: a sunny land where beauty never ceases to be reinvented.
Flagship Spa & Petit Spa L’OCCITANE in Hong Kong,Taiwan, Malaysia & Australia
Also available in luxurious 5* hotels with a true story and soul in Asia-Pacific:
Bali: Kupu Kupu Resorts (Ubud & Jimbaran) • Thailand: Kupu Kupu Phangan Beach Villas & Spa (Koh Phangan)
Korea: JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square (Seoul), Hidden Cliff Hotel & Nature (Jeju) • Philippines: Huma Island Resort (Palawan)
Australia: Cable Beach Resort & Spa (Broome) • Singapore: Four Seasons Hotel • China: Ven Courtyard (Guiyang)
India: JW Marriott (Mussoorie), Raichak on the Ganges (Kolkata), Khyber Resort & Spa (Gulmarg),
Span Resort & Spa (Manali), high-end residences in Mumbai • Sri Lanka: Galle Face Hotel (Colombo)
Luxury cruise: Ananda Cruise, Sanctuary Retreat (Myanmar)
And in iconic Sofitel properties: Guangzhou, Kunming, Sanya, Foshan, Bangkok, Krabi, Siem Reap, Mumbai
spacontact@loccitane.com.hk spa.loccitane.com SPA LOCCITANE

UltimateUnwind

GUIDE TO STYLISH SPAS
HONG KONG
Sweet Spot
Reshape by Bodywize combines innovative slimming technology,
beauty treatments, high-intensity interval training using the exclusive
Queenax bridge system and Sudden Dynamic Interference to enhance
beauty and physical strength. The spa houses two serene and eco-
friendly treatment rooms. Reshape launched a collection of ESPA
products to revolutionise the traditional day spa experience, and balance
oriental treatments with cutting-edge technology.
www.bodywize.com.hk
November/December 2017 AsiaSpa 17

UltimateUnwind
SHANGHAI
Soothe Away
Surrounded by soothing settings in a bi-level sanctuary set
against city views, W Shanghai - The Bund’s AWAY Spa
comprises sauna, plunge pool and eight treatment rooms,
which include a spa suite. The wellness sanctuary features
bespoke treatments including Versa Machine healing,
Shanghainese infusion massages and Intraceutial facial
treatments. Exclusive lines by Botanywell, Comfort Zone
and Givenchy promise to overhaul one’s mind, body and
spirit. www.whotels.com

UltimateUnwind
BALI
Liven Up
The 289-room Hotel Indigo on Mesari
Beach symoblises the flavours, culture and
character of the vibrant Seminyak district.
Its Sava Spa offers treatments and traditional
Balinese massages using locally sourced
natural and active ingredients. The spa
features 10 treatment rooms, relaxation and
reflexology lounges, a 24-hour health club
with wellness programmmes. The state-of-
the-art fitness equipment in the yoga and
meditation studios offers ample space for
stretching, weightlifting and martial arts.
www.seminyak.hotelindigo.com
HOI AN
All Cosy
The new hotel’s La Siesta Central Spa offers a range of treatments
including Swedish therapy, hot stones, Himalayan salt stone and
herbal massages. Body wraps incorporate natural ingredients like
coffee, seaweed, olive oil and milk, as do its foot care range and
facial treatments. For some real downtime, opt for pampering
sessions that can go up to four hours.
www.lasiestaresorts.com
BERKSHIRE
In the Garden
Set in the Royal County of Berkshire, The Cliveden Spa marks
the complete restoration of The Cliveden House. The spa
epitomes modern luxury with its modern gym featuring the
latest Technogym equipment, an indoor heated pool and infrared
sauna. Body treatments provide a bespoke personal experience,
each performed on a water mattress and beginning with a foot
bathing ritual. Must-tries include The Rose Garden Experience,
ideal for releasing stress, and The Garden Oasis Purifying
Experience, designed to stimulate the natural detoxification
process.
www.clivedenhouse.co.uk

Ultimate customized treatments
Since 40 years, Biologique Recherche has a reputation for
astounding effectiveness based on a clinical approach to beauty care
using intentionally pure, concentrated and raw ingredients
as well as innovative protocols and procedures
Biologique Recherche
32, avenue des Champs-Elysées – 75008 Paris
www.biologique-recherche.com
UltimateUnwind
LONDON
Roman Delight
The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity
Square features eight treatment rooms, including a spa
suite and hammam. The deep greys and natural wood
in the swimming pool, sauna, steam and treatment
rooms are reminiscent of the minerals and materials
used during Roman times. Treatments from organic
German skincare line Amala include The Harmonising
Detoxifying Ritual – a full-body massage followed
by a soothing mask using Indian Rassoul clay. Dr
Burgener and ESPA treatments are also available for a
comprehensive experience.
www.fourseasons.com
BANGKOK
Organic Oasis
A sophisticated sanctuary, Pañpuri Organic Spa offers a holistic organic
experience from slipping into robes and slippers, to enjoying warm lotus
tea and organic fruit at the end of the treatment. Panpuri treatment rooms
include a double suite with hydrotherapy bath and steam, while six single
rooms offer a single treatment bed. Signature treatment, the Mali Moonlight
Massage, is a combination of traditional Thai massage, aromatherapy, reiki
and acupressure techniques.
www.panpuriorganicspa.com
PYEONGCHANG
Olympic Ready
Ocelas Spa, located in the InterContinental
Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort, is all set for
the upcoming Winter Olympic Games. A
portmanteau of ‘Ocean, Land, Air and Sun’,
the 660sqm spa features seven treatment
rooms, wet-dry saunas, outdoor Jacuzzi
space with two relaxation lounges and a
fully equipped private bath and shower.
Using the reputable Italian skincare brand
Comfort Zone for its effective active
ingredients and holistic approach, the spa
menu promises body and face rituals that
see immediate results whether in anti-
ageing, moisturising, repairing or healing.
www.ihg.com

UltimateUnwind
TEL AVIV
Sacred Land
Designed by revered Geman
interior architect Harald Klein,
Royal Beach Tel Aviv features a
wide array of rooms and suites.
The Carmel Forest Spa in the
five-star hotel is the Isrotel chain’s
exclusive spa brand, offering more
than 60 treatments, using quality
Christina products. The 650sqm
spa is also home to a gym equipped
with the latest fitness technology,
run by professional trainers. The
swimming pool on the same floor
has dedicated areas for adults and
toddlers. www.isrotel.com
HONG KONG
Coming Up Roses
Located in one of the city’s gitziest shopping
complexes, the Dior Beauty Concept Boutique
offers facials for purification, brightening, anti-
ageing and rejuvenation. Its latest 90-minute
comprehenisve Dior Prestige Regenerating
Ceremonial treatment features the rare and
powerful Rose de Granville. The deep back
massage works away tensions and stiulates vital
energy flow to lighten and replace stress with
radiance. www.dior.com
MYANMAR
Burmese Rejuvenation
Sanctuary Ananda, Sanctuary Retreats’ luxurious river cruise ship in Myanmar,
partners with L’Occitane for a new spa experience. The stylish Thambyadine Spa by
L’Occitane, named after a paddle steamer in the old Irrawaddy Flotilla Company, is
located on the Yangon Deck offering two treatment rooms for relaxation on board.
The signature treatment is a traditional Burmese massage using a firm technique to
relieve aches and pains. To unwind, other therapies available include reflexology
and the Immortelle Secret of Youth Facial.
www.sanctuaryretreats.com

LatestEscapes

HIDEAWAYS FOR YOUR NEXT STAY
ZHEJIANG
Orient Charm
The newly renovated Nanxun Blossom Hill is a gateway to the rich
heritage and ancient wonders of the Ming Dynasty. The exteriors
bear structures that represent a unique blend of Shanghai alleys with
Suzhou traditional gardens. All 20 rooms are accented with touches
that add an element of mystery and history, amplifying its charm.
Designed by Thomas Dariel, rooms are divided into the orange,
green and blue series to represent traditional Chinese occupations
like farming, gardening and fishing.
www.blossomhillinn.com

LatestEscapes
ANAMBAS ISLANDS
Eco-Cation
The Anambas archipelago welcomes the
new eco Bawah Island Resort, a 300-acre
retreat spread over five aisles and three
lagoons. The 35-villa property has all the
tropical escape essentials including a yoga
pavilion, spa, infinity pool, overwater villas
and 13 private beaches. At the treetop
restaurant, menus are replaced by executive
chef Omar Bernardi’s impromptu creativity
as each dish is crafted from what’s available
locally and in the on-site permaculture
garden. www.bawahisland.com

PRODIGE
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T H E U LT I M A T E T R E A T M E N T E X P E R I E N C E
Fa c e a n d B o d y R i t u a l
www.thalgo.com
LatestEscapes
CAPE TOWN
Monolith Marvel
Once known for being a grain monolith,
The Silo in Cape Town is situated above the
Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa
(MOCAA) which will house the single largest
collection of contemporary African art in
the world. The most significant change is
the addition of pillowed glass windows on
the upper floors to complement the existing
geometry of the hotel. These windows bulge
outward, and by night, transform the building
into a majestic beacon in the harbour.
The hotel also features a spa, as well as a
panoramic rooftop bar with swimming pool.
www.theroyalportfolio.com
FIJI
Barefoot Luxury
Nestled amidst a natural rainforest on the edge of the
celestial Kadavu Island, Kokomo Private Island offers a
myriad of experiences both on land and in surrounding
waters lined with fine, white-sand beaches. The shores
are encircled by The Great Astrolabe Reef, home to an
abundance of exotic coral gardens and sea life. The passion
project features five Hilltop Luxury Residences offering
some of the best views on the island, and 21 Exclusive
Beachfront Villas, each with their own pool and private
walled garden embracing traditional Fijian design.
www.kokomoislandfiji.com
SYDNEY
Second Home
Situated in the Parramatta suburbs, Skye Hotel
Suites blend the personalised service of boutique
hotels with the grandeur of luxury properties. Its
72 studios comprise one- and two-bedroom suites
overlooking Sydney. Guests can enjoy access to V
by Crown Group’s resort-style pool and sauna, fitness
centre, alfresco dining and retail piazza. Not to be
missed is the bar on the 26th floor, which looks out
to 270-degree views of the capital’s skyline, Sydney
Harbour Bridge and Blue Mountains.
www.skyehotels.com.au

LatestEscapes
BALI
Mindful Retreat
The mountainside Como Uma Ubud
boutique hotel is the place to relax and
rejuvenate. Situated in a town brimming
with Hindu temples and Balinese
wildlife, the property unveils airy white
bedrooms, bleached-wood carvings,
feather-light bedding, in addition to the
tranquil COMO Shambhala spa for yoga
and traditional treatments. Cultural tours
and hiking, biking and rafting adventures
are also offered.
www.comohotels.com
MILAN
Bird’s Eye View

Located in the heart of Milan’s up-and-coming neighbourhood,
Porto Volta, the 124-room Hotel Viu Milan is nestled between
the financial and historic districts, which inspired the interiors of
bronze, wood panelling of walnut, oak, marble and sandstone.
Aside from Michelin-star restaurants, authentic Italian furnishing
and a 100sqm suite helmed by award-winning designer Nicola
Gallizia, the property also claims to be the only hotel in the city
with a 360-degree view and an outdoor swimming pool where
sunset yoga sessions are held.
www.hotelviumilan.com
VILAMOURA
Picturesque Fusion
Amidst orange grove trees and undulating wetlands stands Anantara
Vilamoura Algarve Resort, beautifully capturing the spirit of authentic
Portugal and indigenous Thai hospitality. The marble-clad hotel boasts
exteriors laced with carved sculptures and columns. The lobby – a
highlight – blooms with culture evident in furniture of wicker and
cane, items of cork and regional pottery and Portuguese art pieces. Of
the 280 bedrooms, 17 are suites, including the large presidential suite
with a rooftop whirlpool tub.
www.vilamoura.anantara.com

LatestEscapes
SANYA
Hawaii of the East

The Sanya Edition pulls out all the stops
with a cerulean artificial sea, pumped
daily with purified saltwater, so guests
can kayak, paddle board or cruise while
sipping champagne. In-house eateries serve
everything from Asian-fusion tapas and
Cantonese classics to Balinese beachside
barbecue. The 512-room hotel also houses
a double-storey bookshop stocked with
heavy-duty art and cultural volumes, as
well as an outdoor gallery showcasing
contemporary Chinese artists.
www.editionhotels.com
LONDON
Warehouse Heritage
In the heart of London’s trendy Shoreditch district
lies The Curtain, composed of a high-end hotel,
cosmopolitan restaurant Red Rooster Shoreditch,
member’s club, rooftop pool and a lounge with a
retractable glass enclosure. The red-brick facade
and large-framed windows complement the urban
aesthetic and gives the building an identity of its
own. The hotel also features a live music venue,
state-of-the-art gym and wellness area, ballroom
and a Moroccan-style heated pool offering stunning
views across the city skyline. www.thecurtain.com
KUALA LAMPUR
City Spectacle
Marking the brand’s Malaysian debut,
Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara brings
its signature French touch to the locale.
Situated in the heart of Damansara
Heights, the 312-room property houses
five restaurants serving Pan-Asian and
fashionable French cuisines. Wellness and
leisure facilities include an outdoor pool,
SO SPA, which features the country’s first
Moroccan hammam, and an executive
lounge with spectacular views of the
city skyline.
www.sofitel.com

Essentials
SkinCare 1. Belief’s First Aid 360 Eye Care Mask is a leave-
on moisture gel eye mask dedicated to relieving
stress and hydrating. Free of mineral oils, synthetic
fragrances, dyes, preservatives and animal-
origin ingredients, its mimosa herbs prevent the
Apple of My Eye
formation of fine lines by boosting the skin’s
resilience. The mask can either be used as the last
step of an evening regime, or left in the fridge five
Goodbye, raccoon eyes minutes prior to morning application for a cooling
effect. www.belifcosmetic.com
1 2. Catering to all skin types, Tatcha’s Luminous

Deep Hydration Revitalising Eye Mask boasts
4 powerful actives that promote a hydration and
revitalisation. The amalgamation of red algae’s
moisture-retaining powers and antioxidant
benefits of peonies boost microcirculation, while
decreasing puffiness, dark circles and fine lines. It’s
also free of parabens, synthetic fragrances, mineral
5 oils, sulphate detergents, phthalates, urea, DEA or
TEA. www.tatcha.com
6
3. Boasting the efficacy of 15 eye treatments, one
application of Helena Rubinstein’s Powercell Eye
Urgency SOS Eye Patch can smooth lines, lift bags
and ease puffiness. Its Oceanic Crista vegetal stem
cells promise a 100 per cent active anti-ageing
power and 24-hour continuous hydration while
bio-cellulous technology restores suppleness,
2 resistance and reduces water-retention. The
patch hugs the contours of the eyes and leaves no
residue. www.helenarubinstein.com
4. MTM’s Custom-Blended Eye Mask is packed

with three types of collagen to stimulate repair
and regeneration and to eliminate wrinkles and
dark circles. Coupled with Custom-Blended Eye
Expert Essence formulated from a variety of herbal-
based MTM-exclusive extracts, the anti-wrinkle
version is rich in okra extracts to reduce muscle
cell contractions; while dark circles are reduced
thanks to Alpha-Arbutin. www.mtmskincare.com
5. Christina’s Smooth Eye Mask keeps wrinkles

7 and puffiness at bay. The formula is designed
to treat the sensitive eye contour with a blend
of active ingredients like marine collagen, rice
3 powder as well as algin to strengthen the skin’s
natural barrier against impurities and pollutants.
www.christina-cosmeceuticals.com
6. To diminish the appearance of puffiness, dark

circles and fine lines around the eyes, Thalgo’s
Collagen Eye Roll-On features three metal balls
that provide a cooling effect, perfect for massaging
its soothing active ingredients into the skin.
www.thalgo.com
7. Nabelle’s Cucumber Masque comprises organic

aloe juice, witch hazel, cucumber distillate and
cranberry seed oil for ultra hydration. Smelling
of fresh cucumber, it doubles as a daily hydrating
gel or leave-on overnight mask to be used up to
three times a week. www.nabelle.ca

BEST FACE FORWARD
Palette
Flutter Me
1
Windows to the soul call for extra special curtains 1. For the ultimate in voluminous lashes,
True Glue’s silk lash collection humours with
whimsical names like Barbie Girl, Fancy Nancy
and Kitty Power. Best paired with its natural
2 lash adhesive, the lash bands are crafted from
handmade cotton thread that makes for easy
application for up to 20 uses.
www.true-glue.com
2. Adorn Cosmetic’s Eco-Luxe Mineral Eyelash

Primer promises longer, lusher and fuller-looking
lashes with its toxin- and cruelty-free formula
composing organic jojoba seed oil and grapefruit
extract. The brand’s dedication to staying natural
means the primer is free from artificial colours,
preservatives and fragrances, making it ideal even
for sensitive eyes.
www.adorncosmetics.com.au
3. The Nordic Secret Volume Lash Primer by

EYELASHES EXTENSIONS. FAKE EYELASHES/THINKSTOCK
Lumene separates and defines lashes while

3 adding length. Its fibre-rich formula adds visible
length to lashes even before mascara application.
It contains moisturising ingredients from Arctic
and Nordic plants to ensure the hairs remain soft
and nourished.
www.lumene.com
4. Babor thinks out of the box with the limited

edition Ultra Definition Mascara in green,
boasting an innovative precision brush that
compresses, separates and shapes the lashes
for a well-defined result. Application in zigzag
movements and in multiple layers is suggested
for better volume.
4 de.babor.com
5. Give your eyelashes a break with Xlash’s

Eyelashes Serum. Its high-tech formula combined
with natural ingredients encourages regeneration
and growth with delicate care. Apply the serum
6 once to three times a week for best results.
5 Ingredients include high-molecular hyaluronic
acid, red coral extract, succinic acid and plant
stem cell culture extracts.
www.xlash.co.uk
6. Part of the La Petite Robe Noire collection,

Guerlain’s Black Lashdress Mascara offers a pop
of shocking pink. The ultra-black hue is made
with beeswax and a plant-based wax to thicken
and lengthen, minus the clumping. D-Panthenol,
a lash-care active ingredient, is also mixed in to
enhance hair quality and ensure a perfect curl
for eight hours without the need for touch-ups.
www.guerlain.com

Essentials
Fuzzy Feeling
John Masters Organics’ rose apricot hair
mask is a rich hydrating hair treatment
to restore your hair’s natural shine and
glow. The organic hair mask combines
the regenerative power of rose water with
vitamins C, E and antioxidants to bring back
lustrous and healthy locks in less than five
minutes. www.johnmasters.com
What’s
Up Tempo
Jack Wills introduces the Sporting Goods Collection which combines
high-performance technical gym kit with contemporary casualwear.
With germ-resistive and deodorising fabrics, the collection of bralets,
cropped tops, sweatshirts, leggings, joggers and sweatshirts promise
comfort and efficiency.
www.jackwills.com
In the Buff
Lush goes au naturel this Christmas with its new range, of
which 80 per cent of products are ‘naked’ or unwrapped for
a sustainable slant. Aside from festive, vegan items like the
Magic of Christmas reusable bubble bar and the Christmas
Sweater bath bomb, shower gel bars are whimsically created
in the shape of a bottle.
www.lush.com

Essentials
Head Turner
Swiss luxury watchmaker
Breguet is known for
its horological panache
amongst the gents, but
the latest collection of
ladies’ wristwatches are
delicate delights. Inspired
by two of the brand’s most
prominent female patrons,
Queen of France Marie-
Antoinette and Queen of
Naples Caroline Murat,
they are paved with
beautiful mother-of-pearl,
precious gems, brilliant-
cut diamonds and 18k Ice Queen
white gold. Chopard’s Ice Cube Pure series is tightly packed in rows of
www.breguet.com small cubes, polished or diamond-set. Available in rings,
earrings, necklaces and bracelets, all gold used in the collection
are ‘Fairmined’ certified and can be worn solo or stacked in
an elegant yellow, white and rose gold combo.
Wearable Art www.chopard.com
Malone Souliers AW17 pays homage to American artist Pat
Steir’s interpretation of Chinese landscape paintings. Velvet,
suede and nappa continue to be strongly represented in the
collection, with childlike embroidery and fine broguing frames
as expressions of the playful manner and daring spirit of its
founders Mary Alice Malone and Roy Luwolt.
www.malonesouliers.com
Easy Rider
London custom-folding bike label Brompton Bicycle releases
three special limited editions – Brompton x Barbour bike, the
Line Friends collaboration and the highly anticipated CHPT3
race spec bike. Easily folded to a third of its original size in
less than 20 seconds, each number can be personalised from
handlebars to colours, lighting to luggage.
www.brompton.com

Vibe
Essentials
Eco
Gentle Giants
An unforgettable adventure awaits in the Laos jungle, where guests
at Amantaka can explore unfrequented spots while spending
time with an elephant family – including baby elephant Kit, his
mother and aunt, who previously laboured in logging camps. This
unique experience is an exclusive collaboration with MandaLao
Elephant Sanctuary and Tours, which practises a non-riding policy
to provide the animals with the best care. The half-day tour begins
at the MandaLao camp, where a guide will share information on
elephant behaviour and the sanctuary’s positive reinforcement
training techniques. Following the initial meeting, a two-hour trek
alongside the elephants will take you to the jungle-covered Huay
Nok stream and Tad Kuang Song waterfall. During the tour, visit a Under the Sea
local village and enjoy a Laotian meal. www.aman.com In response to the longest global coral bleaching event in
history in 2016, Anantara Maldives Resorts expanded their
coral conservation project HARP (Holistic Approach to Reef
Protection), which has improved the resort’s surrounding
reefs over the year. With a focus on environmental protection
and marine education, the programme is led by Dr Andrew
Bruckner, chief scientist of the Living Oceans Foundation, who
works to maintain, monitor and grow the corals. The project
creates a positive impact for both guests and the environment;
for instance, a snorkel trail with a cleaning station was
developed at Anantara Dhigu, and its coral nursery provides
a new habitat for fish and invertebrates.
www.anantara.com
Island Paradise
Embracing the concept of sustainable luxury, Laucala Island
has established various initiatives including the new Coral
Plantation Program, which allows guests to join the resort’s
dive team to help restore corals. A dedicated marine protection
zone has also been sectioned out to facilitate the regeneration of
indigenous fish, while ensuring no overfishing takes place. On
land, Laucala operates its own 240-acre farm, which produces
organic crops such as tropical fruit and vegetables in hydroponic
nurseries, whereas other products like coffee and honey are
either grown on the island or sourced from neighbouring islands.
This farm-to-resort initiative enables the resort to be over 80 per
cent self-sufficient, while guests can enjoy fresh, sustainably
cultivated produce. www.laucala.com

Essentials
For Him
Urban Haven
Situated on level three of Conrad
Macao is a sanctuary for relaxation.
Bodhi Spa offers tailored journeys
inspired by Aboriginal, Ayurvedic
and Asian spa traditions. For men,
the ‘His Element’ menu features Feelin’ Fresh
treatments that address their needs, Get the closest shave with Frederic Malle’s
from quick pick-me-up massages new Vetiver Extraordinaire Shaving Cream
to age-defying Men’s Refinery and After Shave Balm. The former has a thick
Facials. Opt for the three-hour texture and nourishing and cooling properties
Bodhi Sportsman Body Ritual for thanks to menthol, while the latter deeply
head-to-toe pampering. It includes moisturises and soothes the skin to minimise
an aromatic body scrub to purify irritation after shaving. Both are scented with
the skin; a 90-minute deep-tissue Vetiver Extraordinaire, which is formulated
massage to release tension and a with vetiver essence and notes like bergamot,
Men’s Refinery Facial to boost the bitter orange, pink pepper, musk and woods
complexion. to leave a refreshing scent.
www.conradhotels3.hilton.com www.fredericmalle.com
Masculine Edge
Guerlain‘s Les Parisens
family welcomes a new
m e m b e r, L e Fr e n c hy.
A reinterpretation of the
brand’s classic scent Eau de
Verveine, the new fragrance
is created for the urban man
who isn’t afraid to live life to
its fullest. It’s a woody and
citrusy blend with notes like
bergamot, verbena, neroli Slick Makeover
and lavender, reflecting Selvedge Grooming has partnered with J. Crew Men’s Store in
the dynamic, spirited and Central, Hong Kong to bring gentlemen prestigious grooming
elegant characteristics experiences. Available every first and second Sunday until the
of the modern man. The end of the year, the pop-up event showcases the brand’s quality
base consists of ambergris, products and services by their skilled barbers, including haircut
vetiver and tonka and beard trim. Customers spending over HK$2,500 at the J.Crew
bean to give it a warm, Men’s Store will receive a complimentary haircut, and those
masculine and lively booking a treatment can enjoy a 20 per cent discount at the shop
finish. for their new Fall/Winter collections.
www.guerlain.com www.selvedgegrooming.com; www.jcrew.com

Essentials
What’s Happening
Pass the Salt
Tapping into the healing properties of pink Himalayan salt,
Dream Cruises’ Crystal Life Spa introduces the Himalayan
Salt Stone Massage, an innovative treatment created for deep
relaxation. Said to contain 84 naturally occurring minerals,
with benefits such as stimulating the circulation, detoxifying
and improving sleep, inflammation and signs of ageing,
Himalayan salt is far removed from modern environmental
toxins. The pure salt is made into smooth crystal stones,
which are warmed in an award-winning, eco-friendly warmer
that emits negative ions. During the massage, the therapist
combines deep pressure with special techniques to release
tight and sore muscles, while relaxing the mind.
www.dreamcruiseline.com
Cebuano Paradise
Nestled within the Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan, Aum Spa is a paradise within
a paradise where a range of pampering treatments are designed to help guests
relax and rejuvenate. A recent addition to the spa menu is the Mactan Collection,
which includes six packages of signature treatments. Highly recommended is
7107, which represents the 7107 islands of the Philippine archipelago and the
7017-second-long journey. A full-body Aum Hilot Massage using warm coconut
oil and banana leaves restore balance to the body, while the Tropical Revitalizing
Facial leaves the skin soft and supple thanks to nutrient-rich ingredients like
aloe vera, pineapple, lemon and kaolin clay.
www.crimsonhotel.com
Party Ready
Prepare for the festive season and regain the healthy
glow of your skin with Melo Spa’s Nourishing
Winter Retreat at Hyatt Regency Hong Kong,
Sha Tin. Available throughout November and
December, this special retreat is centred around the
frangipani flower, which is said to have moisturising
and anti-ageing effects. Begin with the Silky Body
Glow to cleanse and exfoliate, followed by the
55-minute Rejuvenating Body Massage, which
features frangipani-coconut oil to deeply hydrate
the skin, while the soothing movements alleviate
stress and energise the body and mind. Booking this
package also gives you a 15 per cent off all Elemis
facial treatments and retail products.
hongkongshatin.regency.hyatt.com

Essentials
Midnight Reflection
What better way to celebrate year and welcome 2018 than
an indulgent meal, followed by live performances and a
firework display at a beachfront location on the ‘Island of
the Gods’? The Legian Bali invites guests to join them on
December 31 for a Gala Dinner, beginning at 7.30pm with
cocktail and canapés, before a six-course dinner to satisfy
even the most discerning palate. The evening will continue
with contemporary live jazz band and dance performances
and a live DJ set. Enjoy time with loved ones with a glass of
bubbly and dance beneath the stars until midnight, when the
Pamper Fusion new year commences with brilliant fireworks.
Celebrating the opening of W Shanghai - The Bund, W Hong Kong www.lhm-hotels.com
has launched the Yeh! Shanghai campaign with a range of promotions
and activities under the theme of old meets new and East meets West.
Spa lovers shouldn’t miss Bliss Spa’s Spa-velous Shanghai package,
featuring oriental traditional techniques and western innovative
skincare. It includes a citrus essence facial and an hour of massage,
wrap or scrub of your choice. The journey completes with Yeh!
Shanghai signature desserts. You can also invite your friends to the
When East Meets West ‘Spa-ty’, inclusive of customised treatments,
Yeh! Shanghai party decoration, amenities and gifts, as well as access
to heat and wet facilities. www.w-hongkong.com
Ayurvedic Wisdom
The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong has teamed up
with Subtle Energies to offer guests the brand’s signature
treatments and products. Marrying aromatherapy and ancient
wisdom of Ayurveda, Subtle Energies’ products address
particular concerns and different doshas, helping the body to
rebalance and boosting the immune system, while calming
the mind and spirit. New treatments include the Mindful
Release Facial, which features a dynamic double mask for
deep hydration and a facial Vedic marma massage; and
Shirodhara, which is a full-body marma massage followed
by warm, infused oils poured over the forehead and temples
to de-stress, improve skin and ease insomnia.
www.fourseasons.com
Zen of Touch
Immerse yourself in a Japanese wellness experience at The Spa at
Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, whose Sakura Ritual honours the country’s
age-old traditions with a carefully curated journey. Following a foot
wash while the therapist learns about your needs, the ritual begins with
the Azuki Bean Scrub, which is made from sesame seeds, salt and finely
ground Japanese azuki beans known to purify the skin while stimulating
circulation. Next is a full-body Kiatsu massage, combining shiatsu
and Thai massage techniques to relax the body and soothe the mind.
www.mandarinoriental.com

SpaHealer
Writer Mischa Moselle
Daniel Mitel
Connecting with the universe is a way of life for the master of meditation
Daniel Mitel exudes calm emotion, he believes, based on work by

and reassurance. The self-described master scientists from organisations as diverse as
of meditation carries himself with an air NASA and Stanford University, that the heart
of total confidence and relaxation that is contains some 40,000 neurons and acts as
generally only possible through plenty of a second brain in some respects.
hard work. Not so, says the vegan who In the 21st century, there is of course,
teaches people how to reconnect with their an app to be downloaded to a smartphone.
inner selves. “My mum told me that when I Attach a sensor to your ear and allow it to
was a baby I used to sit on my pillow in the download data from your body to check
lotus position. My grandfather, who was a how mentally balanced you are. Mitel
very wise man, said, ‘Let him be. A child in believes that by using guided imagery, in this
this position is calm, at peace and happy.’” instance, the chart on your smart phone, you
That isn’t to say that Mitel has not had can achieve a greater calm. He goes further
to work at happiness. Born in Romania, to say that guided imagery can do much
he left for Canada with some of his family more – improve sports performance and
when he was young, but his mother and a boost the immune system to help combat
brother were forced to remain behind the diseases such as cancer and HIV. The
Iron Curtain. He threw himself not just into evidence for these claims is work done by
meditation techniques, but also into martial scientists at the University of Pennsylvania,
arts such as karate and tai chi, a discipline Oregon State University and the Institute
in which he has won gold medals. of Transpersonal Psychology in Palo Alto,
Mitel works hard at meditation too, California.
sometimes waking as early as 3am. He A form of biofeedback, guided imagery
says, “It quiets my mind, stops the thoughts is said to create a new image of the body
and allows that feeling of connection with and when the body responds to this,
the whole universe.” He believes existence “Guided physically, emotionally and mentally, there
imagery
should not just be waking up and going to can be “dramatic change, a really good
work, returning and going to sleep, adding, improvement”. Mitel says that football
“It’s possible to live a happy, different life.” player Cristiano Ronaldo and tennis star
Now a teacher living in Britain, Canada is just part of Venus Williams have used guided imagery
and Cyprus but with classes that take him to perfect their performances.
and partner Agathi around the world, Mitel
has studied from some renowned voices
meditation as a After catching a cold after travelling
from a very hot Sydney, Australia to a
way of living”
in the world of meditation. He learnt from Canadian winter, Mitel used the technique
the Dalai Lama that unconditional love is himself. He says, “I did an imagery exercise
the only way to make one happy, a mentor that influenced my body. Instead of snow
who he also finds to have a great sense and cold I saw heat and sunshine. My
of humour. He says, “No matter what the nose stopped running and my headache
question, he always finds a positive side. Melchizedek, Anastasia and Lady Ana. was gone. Guided imagery is just part of
I never heard him say a bad word about Learning from the latter led to his current meditation as a way of living. Stop the mind
anybody.” position as custodian of The School of the going ‘blah, blah, blah‘ and stay in peace,
Mitel has also learnt at the feet of Heart, through which he teaches his insights calm, love and harmony.”
gurus such as Osho, Di Yu Ming, Drunvalo on living from the heart. It’s not all about www.danielmitel.com

minimal
EFFORT
maximum
RESULTS
BABOR Ampoule Concentrates work instantly to deliver results you can see and feel.
Over 60 years of scientific research is distilled into 14 unique, highly concentrated formulations
precisely targeted to correct every beauty concern and perfect your complexion.
BABOR Ampoule Concentrates, quick and effective.
Beauty to go. Anytime. Anywhere. Ask for more.
w w w. b a b o r. o r g
ExpertTake Writer Véronique Lo
Barbara Gavazzoli
Can a for-profit business make a positive social and environmental impact in the world?
“We take care of people, not just accountability and transparency, set by the in place. For primary packaging, glass is
of their skin: this implies a proactive attitude non-profit B Lab. preferred. Gavazzoli says, “We are starting
to inspire and support conscious lifestyle “The ‘sustainable beauty’ vision of to use green plastic for our tubes. We have
choices while contributing to preserve and Davide Bollati, our founder and president, removed all the paper internal parts from
protect the environment, and give back to fully resonates in the B Corporation motto our product boxes and are moving towards
society,” says Barbara Gavazzoli, director of ‘Be the best for the world’ and creates a complete switch to recycled paper.”
communication at Comfort Zone. the perfect condition to achieve financial When it comes to creating positive
In a world where businesses fixate on success, which is usually linked to a higher social impact, the company launched the
growth and financial results, such a view is ethical purpose,” says Gavazzoli, who I Sustain Beauty Campaign in 2015, which
refreshing. But the skincare company isn’t believes the Italian brand’s accomplishments “collects and awards volunteer social,
alone in its quest to make a difference in are not only the result of effective products, environmental and artistic projects that
the world. Last year, Davines Group and but also an ethical approach. make the world a more beautiful place”.
its two brands, Davines and Comfort Zone, “Both our professional partners and end In 2016, two joint-winners received
became part of the B Corp community, consumers choose our products because €10,000 in materials and tools in support
which is composed of more than 2,100 they appreciate high performance, a of their projects that aimed to help cancer
companies. Likened to the Fair Trade natural approach and refined style. But patients, and young people facing issues
certification, certified B Corps are for-profit what truly makes the difference, they such as integration, bullying and anorexia
companies that meet the high standards explicitly say, is our sustainable and human respectively.
of social and environmental performance, approach,” says Gavazzoli. “They are proud Having received 99 points out of 200
to be part of a company, in the B Impact Report – an above average
and therefore of an score compared with the entire B Corp
international community, community – the company is determined
that cares for people and to improve its performance in three areas:
the environment.” people, planet and community, with over
A nd the company 20 ongoing projects dedicated to these
doesn’t just talk the talk. causes. Each year a Sustainability Report is
From formulations to also published to review goals, and set new
packaging, the whole ones for the following year.
production process has Most recently, Comfort Zone introduced
as low an environmental the Live the Joy of Beauty initiative, which
impact as possible. For teaches its partners “not only how to treat
example, its formulations the skin but also how to establish a sincere
are free of silicones empathic relationship with their guests”.
and non-biodegradable Gavazzoli says, “We believe that beauty
substances, while active can change and improve people’s lives. The
ingredients come from balance between beauty and sustainability
suppliers that support drives our action, and we want to inspire
local communities. those around us to do the same. Through
Electricity used in the our communication and education, we
manufacturing facility is promote a vision of beauty which brings a
generated from renewable deeper sense of care and connection with
resources with CO2 oneself and the world around us.”
compensation policies www.comfortzone.it

FirstImpression
Writer Stephanie Shiu
Thalgo
Thalgo Prodige des Océans Essence
up to 54 per cent (based on the assessment

of surface area and length of the offending
folds) in addition to the clinical scoring of
crow’s feet. The serum is ideal for these
areas of focus.
FINAL VERDICT
In all studies measuring the efficacy of
Essence, results were measured after 42
days, and therefore not instantly noticeable.
It’s also recommended to be used together
with complementary products within the
range for best results, so a range of factors
influence competency. But purely based
on comparing one side of the face with
the serum, against the other without, the
appearance of fine lines does seem less
obvious and the skin more hydrated.
www.thalgo.com
THE PROMISE marine theme carries right the way through

Combining five patented technologies, to its fragrance reminiscent of a youthful
Essence claims to regenerate natural Calvin Klein eau de toilette, which while
beauty with three promises – to correct lovely and refreshing, is distinct, which may
wrinkles, blemishes and dryness with its be worth noting for those sensitive to scent.
high concentration of marine ingredients; to The gel-like consistency is light enough for
resculpt and contour; and to perfect texture humid climates.
while boosting radiance and vitality.
PUT TO THE TEST
PACKAGING Apply to face and neck before moisturiser,
The concept of harnessing the benefits of smoothing from the centre of the face
marine cellular nutrients (63 if anyone’s outwards. The serum is completely absorbed
counting) is conveyed in every aspect of almost immediately after application,
the product, from the metallic azure box in particularly in the case of dry skin types,
which its housed, to the sleek, ombré blue- with appropriate properties as an ‘in-
hued bottle with glimmers of silver. Elegant between’ step, forming a base for the next
and easy on the eye. step of your routine.
WHAT TO EXPECT BEST FOR

Described as the “perfect alliance between Mature skin. Since Essence’s main draws
science and the ocean”, the serum improves are to decrease drooping of the lower face
skin by redefining contours and lifting. The by 12.16 per cent, and wrinkle reduction of

BehindTheScenes
Séla Ancient Minerals

Highlighting ancient minerals from
Jordan’s Dead Sea
Taking inspiration from

all corners of the globe, Séla skincare
showcases minerals found in nature,
combining beauty traditions with science.
With highlights including the Mineral Gold
Range inspired by Cleopatra, Pearl Rice
Range from Japan and China and Blue
Secret from geothermal water destinations,
skin is restored and balanced for a youthful
appearance.
At the heart of the brand are precious
minerals from the Dead Sea, which feature
in Séla’s four personalised ranges to suit
different skin types based on their healing
properties. Volcanic water from France is
used for its therapeutic qualities, resulting
in a fresh, glowing complexion. like seaweed, mother of pearl, caviar, alpine with advanced French technology to provide
Modern lifestyle factors such as pollution rice, argan oil, and sweet almond oil offer a full range of skincare and professional
and stress can negatively impact the healthy solutions to individual skincare needs. products.”
growth of skin cells and upset the balance Amy Hockey, regional trainer at Séla Quality remains an utmost priority.
of pH levels. Through ingredients such Ancient Minerals, believes the synergy of Hockey says, “From the beginning of the
as magnesium, calcium, bromide and potent ingredients sourced from nature and process – planning, developing, production
potassium, Séla skincare aims to lock cutting-edge innovation is most unique. She and packaging – to the end delivery and
in moisture, improve the body’s defense says, “Séla’s anti-ageing formula uses quality product use, there is a high standard of
mechanism, protect against pollutants and ingredients for long-lasting results. In the research and development.” For example, the
restore the skin’s natural radiance. Each market, it’s rare to find a well-established Instant Perfection range comprises plant and
with its own special benefit, ingredients brand using Dead Sea minerals combined herb extracts handpicked for their capacity to
treat specific skin conditions. The Blue Lotus
Eye Elixir contains extracts from the healing
Blue Egyptian Nymphaea lotus revered for its
anti-ageing, hydrating properties.
The line is versatile enough to be used
in a spa setting, with a facial performed
by a skincare professional, while equally
effective at home in terms of visibly
noticeable results. Hockey also emphasises
the brand’s holistic approach to luxury
beauty through diversification. She says,
“The body and hair products we have are
different from what is currently available in
the market. We feel this is important so that
we can always evolve, reach our desired
audience and meet their expectations.”
www.selaminerals.com

IntheKnow
Writer Catharine Nicols
HALF LENGTH PROFILE PORTRAIT OF YOUNG HANDSOME CAUCASIAN BLONDE/THINKSTOCK

Expert
Travel and
Wellness
Tips
Q Help! I don’t have the time to go on
a retreat. What apps and other tools Q Skincare always makes a great gift
– which brands should I be buying
You could eat Australia’s Vanessa Megan
brand collection it’s so pure, says Vanessa
can I use to help me de-stress at home? this Christmas? Megan Gray, founder. Her Intensive Organic
Night Repair Oil is one of the most delicious
A I love Calm, an app with gentle,

guided meditations ideal for the
morning, as well as soothing music and
A Artisan brands should be top of your
shopping list this year. Think Purearth,
created by ex-lawyer Kavita Khosa, who
face oils I’ve ever tried (on my face!).
And finally, Suzanne Norwitz’s Maya
Chia brand based on chia oil delivers
audio stories to help you slip into sleep. sources pure ingredients from the Himalayan antioxidants, and donations to Mayan
Happify to keep you positive and Self Help belt and supports Tibetan women at the same communities. Try their Super Blend – Pressed
for Anxiety Management are also good. time. Their Illume Face Elixir Oil is divine. Serum Brightening Moisture Concentrate.
All are free.
Swap your usual drama for Mindfulness:
Be Happy Now, which features Deepak
Chopra and Thich Nhat Hanh among
others. Try Innsaei, which explores the art
Q I’m on the road a lot and need some
recommendations for soundtracks
Blade Runner is well worth a re-listen.
The rest of the album isn’t as chilled, but
to keep delay and jet lag stress at bay. will distract you from the surrounding
of connecting or escape into the new Blue
Planet II and the dulcet sounds of Sir David
Attenborough’s narration.
A This Town by Norwegian Kygo
featuring Sasha Sloan is mellow. Actually
stress.
The Nature Sounds app is a great
natural white noise distraction when you
If podcasts are your thing, Motivation anything by Kygo is perfect, especially can close your eyes mid-flight or in your
Monday with Dennis Ngango gives a quick when you’re negotiating traffic and airports. hotel bath once you’ve arrived, although
boost to start the week, Gregg Swanson’s With the new version out, Vangelis’ you might wake up some time later in
Warrior Mind Coach will help you look dreamy Rachel’s Song from the original tepid water…
forward with purpose and The Hilarious
World of Depression by John Moe finds out If you’d like to share your queries with AsiaSpa, send an email to: as@bluincmedia.com. Unless you
state otherwise, we assume that you are happy for us to print your question.
how comedians keep (relatively) balanced.

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SpaJourney Writer Joyce Yip
A-List Touch
Zensa Spa in the Hollywood-themed Studio City Macau rolls out red-carpet treatment
THE DEAL: Celebrating two years since

its opening, Studio City Macau’s 13-room
Zensa Spa welcomes guests with a grand
white marble lobby. While sipping on ginger
or camomile tea, your preferences will
be determined with a detailed four-paged
questionnaire, and an additional fragrance
test to select your oil of choice.
Its menu, though expansive, is divided
not only by treatment, but also objectives
such as energise, synchronise, nourish,
hydrate and activate. For more specific
needs, suggestions are made for the sleep
deprived, those suffering from jet lag, as well
as expecting and new mothers. To really shut
your brain off, experts will personalise 120
minutes’ worth of pampering based on your
current condition and mood.
Regular spa-goers will know to leave the best of all worlds. While I was sprawled Despite the treatment being only 120
enough time to check out the wet facilities, across the massage table, she placed a pair minutes, I felt as if I had a good night’s sleep.
and at Zensa, nothing is textbook. Its vitality of hot stones atop each foot – a move that
pool, for instance, is a decagonal star where was already enough to dissipate all traces THE VERDICT: Before the therapist even
each tip is a cocoon walled with water of stress – before drawing figure eights with shows you her moves, the spa’s decor,
jets. Be sure to check out the Snow Room. two more rocks across my back. facilities and surrounds are enough to
Designed as a post-sauna concept, the cold Undeniably hot upon initial contact, the impress. The grand interiors are soothing at
is supposed to close pores, boost circulation heat makes the relaxing juniper oil quickly the same time; pre-treatment garb thoughtful
and improve the immune system. Unlike melt into the skin with circular movements, and creative; and the sheer size of the
regular chill rooms, this enclave with soothing muscle aches and knots almost couple’s room – complete with his and her
stone facades is covered with actual ice instantly. The stones are followed with a sinks and prodigious vanity and bathtub –
and ‘snow’ – a feature that requires daily pressure point massage using fingertips, was dazzling.
maintenance and shovelling by staff in hands, forearms and elbows, variations The therapist is spot-on with her strokes
down jackets. dependent on area and tension levels. My – definitely two hours well spent.
shoulders welcomed stronger kneading, www.studiocity-macau.com
THE LOWDOWN: Zensa Spa categorises while a gentler touch on the delicate
their treatments into Sense of Flow, forearms and inner thighs was appreciated.
which serves to awaken the body; Touch, To ensure I was pampered from head to
exemplified by the treatments; and a Living toe, the treatment ended with a 30-minute
Spa Concept, which continues practices express facial, an add-on to body treatments
of stimulation and balance with a home- designed to cleanse and rehydrate.
care kit.
Sense of Flow begins with a foot scrub THE BENEFITS: My body definitely felt
using a fennel seed-based polish in a lighter and muscles looser post treatment:
brass bowl, which the therapist shakes to aches and tension from my shoulders and
send vibrations throughout the body in thighs evaporated. And though the facial
preparation for the upcoming treatment. was just a quick pick-me-up, my skin visibly
Personalised for me by my therapist, it was looked more radiant and pores smaller.

A Urban Integrative Wellness Retreat
nurturing harmony among spirit, human and nature
Creating the Space for Life Transformation and Love in Action

Set in the verdant hillside of Sai Kung, Fivelements, Hong Kong is a holistic sports wellness destination
featuring athlete training support, family wellness and executive programmes in the Hong Kong Golf
& Tennis Academy.flections of the love, authenticity and harmony within.
Fivelements’ integrative wellness retreats, stays and exclusive day programmes combine:
Balinese-inspired wellness rituals for purification, balancing and rejuvenation
Epicurean plant-based cuisine for health, beauty and longevity
Sacred Arts practices for inner strength, alignment and dedication
A Sports Wellness approach for athletic training and high performance
We invite you to steep in the sacred atmosphere of this ultimate wellness experience.
Join our Friends of Fivelements Privilege Programme and enjoy special savings at Fivelements Bali and Hong Kong.
http://hk.fivelements.org/en/specials/friends-of-fivelements
www.hk.fivelements.org
wellnesshk@fivelements.org . +852 3959 0000 . @fivelementsretreats
Hong Kong Golf & Tennis Academy . 81 Tai Chung Hau, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
WellnessCalendar
NOVEMBER 12–16
Love Naturally
The first step to happiness is to love
yourself. Learn how to be more kind,
compassionate and accepting of
yourself with author and happiness
guru and coach Shannon Kaiser at her
Fall in Love with Yourself and Life – Self
Love Retreat on November 12–16.
Taking place at Fairmont Chateau
Lake Louise, where the stunning
landscape and fresh mountain air offer
an ideal setting for self-reflection, the
retreat includes workshops, guided
meditations, support and mind-opening
exercises to inspire. There will also be
daily yoga and free time to explore
Lake Louise.
www.fairmont.com
JANUARY 7–13
Head Start
Kick-start 2018 with an active week in Los Cabos, Mexico at the
luxurious Prana del Mar resort. Led by devoted instructor Alice
O’Neill, the Pilates and Wellness Retreat will focus on Pilates
mat technique, while additional stretch and tone bodywork
complement your training to help you achieve proper alignment
and form (January 7–13). Aside from Pilates sessions, participants
are encouraged to take time to relax or explore the incredible
location through hikes and excursions.
www.pilatesbyalice.com
NOVEMBER 18–DECEMBER 2
African Magic
Join My Burn-in Retreat for an unforgettable journey as guests are
taken to the Makutsi Safari Springs in South Africa from November
18 to December 2. Designed as a holistic experience to detox,
de-stress, rebalance and revitalise, the two-week getaway is filled
with spa treatments and healthy, organic meals. A retreat would
be incomplete without a safari expedition – the Fresh through Life
– My Burn-in Retreat includes multiple guided excursions so you
can appreciate the magic of nature up close.
www.timeout-travel.org

YogaCalendar
DECEMBER 3–9
Yogic Bliss
Step away from everyday stress and free your mind and
body through yoga at a gorgeous beachfront location. From
December 3 to 9, join yoga teachers Susan Kniseley-Foy and
Judy Smith on their Let Your Spirit Flow, 2.0 retreat at Sansara
Resort in Cambutal, Panama. Each day will feature two yoga
classes, one more intense while the other balances it out with
restorative practice. A complimentary surf lesson and cooking
class, plus use of SUP boards, kayaks and bikes are available
to enrich your relaxing week.
www.sansararesort.com
NOVEMBER 23–26
Forest Energy
The Andaman, a Luxury Collection Resort in Langkawi is bringing
back the Rainforest Yoga Retreat this year. On November
23–26, guests are invited to join celebrated guru and founder of
YogaOneThatIWant (YOTIW) Studios, Atilia Haron, on this yoga
immersion. Designed for students of all levels, classes feature
Haron’s easy-to-follow poses and are held overlooking the
mesmerising Datai Bay while surrounded by the rainforest. In
addition to two sunrise and two sunset yoga sessions, meditation
classes are also offered. At the end of the day, you will be rewarded
with authentic Malaysian dishes and an exclusive performance by
Haron who is also a singer-songwriter.
www.theandaman.com
DECEMBER 29–JANUARY 5
Balinese Haven
Escape to the ‘Island of the Gods’ this
New Year with yoga masters Hawah and
Mimi Rieger for a week of soul-nourishing
experiences. Held at the luxury villas of
Surya Kembar from December 29 to January
5, the retreat offers a chance to unplug,
relax and deepen your practice. Daily
classes integrate various styles, including
ashtanga, sivananda, Iyengar and mixed
martial arts. Also included are meditation
and pranayama classes, as well as a range
of cultural experiences such as ancient
temple tours, traditional Balinese dance and
adventures exploring the beautiful island.
www.oneyogaglobal.com

SpaTrade
Spa Events
REVIEW
BEYOND BEAUTY ASEAN-BANGKOK 2017
September 21–23
Beyond Beauty ASEAN-Bangkok (BBAB)
returned to the Thai capital’s IMPACT Exhibition
& Convention Center on September 21–23 for
its fourth edition, as more than 13,000 visitors
attended the three-day event. This year, 664
companies gathered to present their products
in 18 international pavilions, while more
than 150 companies from China, Taiwan
and Thailand joined the dedicated Supply
Chain sector. The BBAB 2017 programme
included a range of conferences and activities.
Some highlights were the first ASEAN Spa &
Wellness Conference & Workshop, the ASEAN
Beauty Retail Summit, as well as the third
Beyond Beauty Trends Conference.
www.beyondbeautyasean.com
REVIEW PREVIEW
GLOBAL WELLNESS SUMMIT PROFESSIONAL
October 9–11 BEAUTY
Taking place at The LONDON
Breakers Palm Beach,
Florida from October 9 to
February 25–26
The UK’s largest industry event
11, the Global Wellness
with over 800 brands participating,
Summit once again
Professional Beauty London is set to
brought together industry
take place on February 25–26 2018 at
leaders and delegates for
ExCeL London. In addition to viewing
the 11th edition of the
the latest products and equipment,
world’s most important
visitors can take part in expert seminars
conference on the
and live demonstrations. The World
business of wellness.
Spa & Wellness Convention will also
Themed ‘Living a Well
be held as part of the show, providing
Life’, this year’s event invited more than 50 speakers to talk about how and why wellness
spa owners and operators a platform
changes the way business is done, as well as big picture trends, such as how technical,
where they can share ideas on topics
social and economic changes impact the different sectors of the industry. The Global
such as the threats and opportunities
Wellness Institute also released its research report on the fast-growing market of wellness
in the digital market and the rebirth of
lifestyle real estate and communities, which has found that consumer demand has been
fitness in spa.
on the rise globally. www.globalwellnesssummit.com
www.professionalbeauty.co.uk

SpaBeauty
Writer Emily McCabe
Clean Sweep
True beauty means ingredient awareness
HANDMADE COSMETICS SET WITH HAZELNUT AND MINT;/THINKSTOCK

Knowledge is empowering. Though a task in itself to navigate through, 42.7 per cent at the 2017 WWD Beauty
Especially for the sceptic sifting through it’s worthwhile better understanding what Summit. This reflects a change in consumer
the latest beauty must-haves, it can be we are truly using on a daily basis. ideals, which businesses increasingly need
challenging to decide which products In a recent Forbes article, Marc Rey, to address. Particularly with the influence
to invest in. With inviting colours, shiny president & CEO of Shiseido Americas, of social media, the shift towards natural,
palettes, perfect pigments, beautiful revealed that traditional make-up was at a chemical-free products is more evident than
packaging and savvy marketing with 1.3 per cent loss in 2016, while independent ever before.
promises to enhance or solve your skin brands saw a consumption increase of Edible Beauty Founder and Naturopath
issues, it can be a daunting case of Anna Mitsios says, “People are becoming
information overload. “The average woman more receptive to hearing about the health
uses 12 products a day

No longer news that the cosmetic impact of their personal care products.
industry operates in a complex, sometimes Over the past five years, people have
containing up to 168
grey area when it comes to ingredient become more open to learning about
regulations, some companies find ways to toxins. Companies can use whatever
include potentially harmful ingredients, or
withhold information entirely, leaving the
different chemicals” adjectives they like when ‘green-washing’
their products. Legally the words ‘pure’
consumer feeling confused and duped. ~ Katherine Fan and ‘natural’ are unregulated. For instance,

natural may mean that a certain percentage
of the ingredients are mineral or plant-
based, rather than synthetic. However there
is no guarantee of this, and what those
percentages actually are.”
Mitsios explains the dubiousness of the
term ‘organic’ without an accompanying
certification. She says, “Beauty brands
leverage the popularity of these terms
for marketability, and their labels often
inaccurately represent how much of the
product is in fact organic. Brands labeled
organic may still include potentially harmful
preservatives or questionable ingredients
in their products, despite using organically
derived raw materials. Depending on the
specific certification, five to 30 per cent
may be non-organic, without being stated
on the label. This is the main reason we
use the term ‘edible’ as our gold standard a new industry standard. Environmentally The side effects caused by lead in lipstick,
when it comes to purity. If an ingredient is forward-thinking companies like Kora, carbon black in eyeliner and hormone-
not good enough to eat, we will not include Sukin, Vanessa Megan, Kjaer Weis and Jillian disruptive parabens used to lengthen
it in our product.” Dempsey are paving the way in education product shelf life should be enough to deter
Independent brands across the globe are and sharing research-based evidence on the consumers from risking health for beauty.
taking the initiative to promote ideals of pure efficacy of natural ingredients, so outdated Co-founder of Gourmet Skin Bar
and ‘safe enough to eat’ ingredients, setting toxic methods can be a thing of the past. Katherine Fan’s philosophy is simple – to
love, cherish and protect. She says, “The
Environmental Working Group says the
average women uses 12 products a day,
containing up to 168 different chemicals!
We want you to be comfortable in your own
skin without compromise.”
For Fan, this means standing against
animal testing and being dedicated to
protecting the environment, and supporting
organic, sustainable and ethical local
businesses. She says, “It’s not easy but if we
make a promise and don’t follow through,
we not only break the trust with our clients,
but are responsible for compromising
organisations trying to make a difference,
which would be detrimental. We are
glad to see people genuinely interested
in understanding what they are using on
their skin.”

SpaNutrition
Writer Elle Kwan
Watch What You Eat

Eating that takes care of body and soul
the nourishment it provides are found in Zen

and Buddhist teachings, where it is believed
food, as it is broken down and absorbed
by the body, becomes one with the person
eating it. Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh has
taught about the subject widely and co-
wrote Savor: Mindful Eating, Mindful Life,
which talks up many benefits that mindful
eating can encourage.
Ayurveda, too, embraces the concept, and
YOUNG WOMAN HAVING A MEAL/THINKSTOCK
considers food to be a form of God, says Dr

Miithhun Raju, resident Ayurvedic Physician
at the Sukhavati Ayurvedic Retreat and Spa
in Bali. Ayurvedic principles centre on
balancing the mind, body and environment
and don’t prescribe to fast consumption of
food. Eating should never be associated with
greed, he says. Menus are devised in ways
that balance three doshas, or energy states,
and seasonal eating is encouraged. Eating
Last year, Sebastian Kade process. It involves projecting focus into the itself should be a pleasure, in a slow, focused,
ate exactly the same three meals every preparation and enjoyment of each meal. peaceful and comforting environment. When
day. Muesli for breakfast. Ramen for lunch. Mindful eaters often break down every “nourishment of every tissue is important”,
Rice, kimchi and dumplings for dinner. He meal component by individual ingredient, food choices, preparation and consumption
labels himself quite the foodie, so why the ruminating on where it originated and are all carried out thoughtfully to aid the
restrictive diet? imagining how it got to the plate. Upon process.
“By learning to find honest appreciation taking a bite they focus the senses, detecting A disconnect between the mind and
in my simple meals, I’ve actually built up every different subtle flavour and texture. body is deregulating and when negative
food to be a constant source of joy in my The challenge in eating like this is also judgements cloud the mind, we are prone
life,” Kade says. “Each night when I finish the core purpose, Kade says. “If you can to treating the body with disregard. Mindful
my same plain meal, I honestly think, “That appreciate the taste of a dish once, then eating brings realignment, making it a
was good!’” theoretically that same dish, with the same useful strategy for anyone wishing to adopt
How many of us can say the same? With flavours, can be appreciated multiple times healthier eating practices.
the lure of the smartphone an ever constant, on end. The only thing preventing that is our Participants on an online mindful eating
it’s become more likely for most to notice ability to appreciate it.” programme run by Sydney’s The Mindfulness
the number of emails sent during lunch Although Kade, who is the author of Clinic sign up looking to conquer bad food
than the food we ate while doing so. We Living Happiness: A Personal Manifesto for habits and associations. They are not given
rush through dinner thinking about tasks Living, jokes that he thought he coined the menu plans and nutritional guidelines to
that need completion immediately after it, mindful eating term, it has become quite overcome them. In fact, no foods are off
and cram in breakfast as we jump into our a buzzword in recent years. But it is far limits. Instead, they are asked to honour
daily commute. from modern thinking. The concept of food themselves and the food they choose to eat
The kind of eating Kade practises, appreciation is built into some of the world’s using mindful eating strategies. It’s ancient
mindful eating, involves a very different oldest religions. Being thankful for food and thought delivered in the most modern way.

One technique called Dear Body works
like a daily meditative reset, tuning the
mind’s chatter out and the body’s needs in.
The exercise anchors a busy mind, halts
stress, and gives space to fully monitor real,
honest information from the body on what
it needs to thrive at that moment – be that
food, hydration or sleep.
“The more you eat with attention
and intention the more you naturally
steer towards the healthier options while
minimising treat food. It’s generated through
an internal respect for the body rather than
rules,” says the clinic’s director, Charlotte
Thaarup, who herself overcame an eating
disorder with mindful eating, says simple Khichari
congruence succeeds where diets cannot. This recipe from The Sukhavati Cookbook by the Sukhavati Ayurvedic Retreat and
She says, “The invitation is to fall in love Spa is a classic Ayurvedic staple, for a warm, rebalancing and restorative meal in one.
with the body. We want to honour the Serves Four
relationship because you protect what you Ingredients:
love.” 1 cup basmati rice 3 tsp diced ginger
Cristina Tahoces of the Thrive Nutrition ½ cup yellow (split) mung dal ¼ tsp turmeric powder
Practice in Hong Kong says, “Mindful eating 5 cups water 1 stem coriander leaf (chopped)
activates the parasympathetic nervous ½ tsp black mustard seeds Salt and black pepper
system which is actually our rest and digest ½ tsp cumin seeds
mode.” Reading emails or trying to work
while eating actually impacts how well the Directions:
body digests and absorbs nutrients, and 1. Wash the rice and mung dal and bring to the boil with water in a heavy bottomed pot.
2. Add turmeric, ginger and salt, cover and simmer until consistency is soft and porridge-like.
stressors send the body into a fight-or-flight
3. Heat ghee in another saucepan and add mustard seeds. Stir until they begin to pop and
mode that impacts the digestive process then add cumin seeds. Sauté until fragrant.
negatively, so taking a few minutes out to 4. Add the spice mix to the cooked rice and dal and stir through until combined thoroughly.
focus on food and away from issues can be 5. Add the coriander and let simmer for a few minutes. The khichari should be an even
helpful, she says. smooth texture that is not too thick.
Slower chewing (some suggest 20
chews per mouthful) reduces bloating. by your own intuition and thinking. Some pull him out of focus but he found humour
Still, conquering the mind isn’t easy and people find they settle on one ‘mindful an aid. “It’s learning to laugh at yourself.
even two minutes of mindful eating can be meal’ a day, others prefer a week’s retreat. Learning to see that cyclic self-destructive
a struggle, says Tahoces. But that’s ok. “The Some, like Kade, do three meals a day and talk and chuckle at its absurdity,” he says.
reality is that mindful eating is hard and see months turn into years. He admits his With the indulgent party season upon
takes deliberate practice and awareness. But experiment wasn’t without its challenges us, a few days eating mindfully could be
don’t make ‘perfect’ the enemy of ‘good’.” despite previous experience practising a worthy antidote from winter’s excesses.
Two minutes can soon become 10, mindfulness in other areas of his life. Start now, if you are nibbling on a snack,
Tahoces says, and then a whole meal. Be led Negative voices in his mind threatened to by putting this article down.

SpaMen
Writer Cal Wong
Insight of Vipassana
Mindfulness meditation may just be the antidote to the pressure of masculinity
DIVERSITY PEOPLE EXERCISE CLASS RELAX CONCEPT/THINKSTOCK
In our constantly buzzing world exponentially. We can plan ahead, reflect on TUNNEL VISION
are we ever really far from distraction? It situations and relate them to our personal Unlike other types of meditation, vipassana
has become increasingly important to stop, circumstances. While an evolutionary leap, focuses inwards rather than on external
unwind and find that elusive centre, the it also had a side effect – stress. items such as a candle flame, or the
very notion of which suggests something Vipassana meditation literally means sound of flowing water. Mindfulness aids
is out of alignment in our lives. This is not ‘through perception’ or mindfulness and is relaxation by training our minds to not
a condition restricted to the modern world an ancient and effective method of dealing only be aware, but also attentive, which is
as humans have been seeking balance with stress, believed to be the oldest of all actually perfect for the modern man. It helps
since the development of language skills. Buddhist meditation practices. Religious improve concentration at work, or bring our
With that, the capacity for comprehension, scholars believe Buddha, the man himself, attention back when we are distracted (for
situational and spiritual awareness expanded developed and propagated the practice. example, when sports are in front of us on

the television). Our biological composition Men need to School of Medicine study in 2014 which
means we tend to focus on the immediate demonstrated that 30 minutes of mindful
task at hand. maintain focus and meditation a day appeared to alleviate
Men have their own set of complications. anxiety and depression symptoms as
We tend to have more pent-up issues due
to societal expectations of masculinity,
attention, while effectively as antidepressants.
The male tendency towards emotion
exacerbated by and often confused with increasing awareness avoidance often leads to bottling up fears
machismo. According to Sebastian Droesler, and agitation. Mindfulness allows us to
counselling psychologist, mindfulness become more aware of them, which helps
trainer and life coach, this confusion close nexus to early stages of mindfulness develop stronger emotional intelligence
can oftentimes lead to damaging habits meditation. Eastern martial arts have long through understanding our own triggers,
including distractions such as games and taken advantage of combining absolute while better understanding the needs of
silly competitions, and numb-seeking concentration of physical movement to train others. This often translates in the home,
behaviour, such as alcohol, drug abuse the mind to streamline thoughts. where we learn to empathise more with our
and meaningless sex. To avoid this, men Mindfulness does more than just partners. Persistent mindfulness practice can
need to maintain focus and attention, while improve focus. A 2012 study in the Journal therefore lead to better relationships – in and
increasing awareness. of Occupational Health Psychology out of the bedroom!
“We need both!” says Hong Kong-based found employees who participated in a As with anything in life you can be
Droesler. “Focus alone will not help you ‘Mindfulness at Work’ programme showed mindful or mindless about it. Perhaps it
in the long run. You can be an excellent marked improvements in performance. It is time we confront and acknowledge the
sniper, but get killed by the enemy sneaking can also enhance emotional well-being, as distractions of our modern lives, and learn
up behind you. Or in Hong Kong terms, evidenced by a Johns Hopkins University to find our centre.
you can be single-handedly operating your
business, but if you can’t anticipate your
wife’s needs, you will suffer my friend. We
all have been there and felt inadequate in
the relationships where it matters most.”
Mindfulness meditation is traditionally
practised in a seated position, in peace
and quiet. But in this modern age, how
can we just focus? According to Droesler,
DIVERSITY PEOPLE EXERCISE CLASS RELAX CONCEPT/THINKSTOCK
men already do to a certain extent. “You

can practise mindfulness while moving.
Mindful walking meditations are great ways
to develop skills,” says Droesler.
SEEKING CENTREDNESS
Have you ever gone for a solo run and found
yourself completely void of thoughts and
in the zone? Or perhaps bench-pressing
at the gym, and intently focused on the
contractions in your chest muscles with each
lift? Those moments of clarity when you focus
on nothing else but the task at hand are a

SpaTrends
Writer Rana Good
Audiovisual Well-Being
How light and sound can positively influence your brain and health
Light and sound have been used

to treat various symptoms and illnesses since
the beginnings of modern medicine. In the
last 30 years, this dual process has been
fine-tuned and become known as audio-
visual entrainment, using flashing lights
and rhythmic tones to entrain brain waves
toward a desired rhythm or frequency to
change and improve brain function. Audio-
visual entrainment can be used to treat
low moods, depression, seasonal affective
disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder
and head traumas, such as concussion. It
can offer a breakthrough when traditional
methods have been exhausted, and provides
an alternative to medication. This method
is becoming more popular in medical
practices and wellness centres worldwide.
David Siever is the authority on audio-
visual entrainment and founder of this
treatment, who has published research in
the field over the last 30 years. He and
other experts administer the audio-visual
entrainment method to create constant,
repetitive stimuli of sufficient strength to
‘excite’ the thalamus. The thalamus is the except smell pass through it. According can improve balance and decrease the risk
sensory gateway to the brain, as all senses to Siever this “ups the neurotransmitters of falling.
that are typically deficient, and excites The treatment is also used in military
the neurons which has a calming effect on facilities and police stations to reduce stress,
the whole brain.” In 1985, he developed particularly helpful with PTSD, capable of
the D.A.V.I.D. 1 which helped performing completely turning patients’ lives around.
arts students overcome stage fright at the Siever says, “I had a call recently with a
University of Alberta. police officer who had severe PTSD and
Since then, Siever has spent decades was on the verge of divorce. His police
developing audio-visual entrainment to treat department spent US$70,000 for therapy,
disorders and illnesses in patients of all ages. but to no avail. We used a Delight [device]
In high school and college students, audio- on him and it changed his life. His wife
visual entrainment can help lessen anxiety called me and said ‘thank you for giving me
and increase the ability to focus, proven my husband back.’”
effective with those suffering from ADD and Unlike other forms of therapy, a highlight
ADHD. In seniors, audio-visual entrainment of audio-visual entrainment is that you

TRENDS – VISIONS – STRATEGIES
don’t need to visit a doctor’s office or For those suffering from and Mood Booster, representing the devices’
wellness centre to reap the benefits of the ability to calm or heighten brain function
treatment. You can purchase an audio-visual chronic illnesess and do not according to patient needs.
entrainment device online and use it at your Audio-visual entrainment helps alleviate
discretion. Siever’s company Mind Alive respond to traditional a host of mental and physical challenges,
produces a variety of audio-visual devices but those who experience light sensitivity,
that can be used at home. The Delight, medicine, audio-visual such as nausea or headaches, are best to
ALERT and SMART devices can help reduce stay clear. “There are no known reported
stress, insomnia, improve mood and mental entrainment can provide a side-effects,” says Daniel Lim, audio-visual
sharpness. They have five session categories: entrainment product consultant and owner
Energize, Meditate, Brain Brightener, Sleep beacon of hope of Eastbay Wellness, though it may not be
suitable for those affected by photo-induced
seizures from exposure to flashing lights.
“Instead they may consider alternative
entrainment technologies that use a pulsed
electromagnetic field as the medium, where
frequencies are sent via low-frequency
electromagnetic waveform.”
For those suffering from chronic illnesses
and do not respond to traditional medicine,
audio-visual entrainment can provide a
beacon of hope. Dr Joseph Shapiro, an
optometrist in New York City, uses Siever’s
audio-visual entrainment products and
methods in his practice to help regulate
HUMAN BRAIN X-RAY SCAN , MEDICALLY ACCURATE 3D ILLUSTRATION/THINKSTOCK
different brain wave patterns and enhance

physical and mental health.
Dr Shapiro says, “People go from
one doctor to another, neurologists, get
MRIs, CAT scans, take medication and
undergo traditional tests that don’t pick
[brainwave patterns] up. Audio-visual
entrainment and vision therapy taps into the
neurological mechanisms which is where
the brain has plasticity and the ability to
change.” Audio-visual entrainment helps
assess brain function and provides a big-
picture perspective of physical problems.
Audio-visual entrainment can help lessen
symptoms and illnesses where they start –
the brain.

Tête-À-Tête
ESSENCE
AWAKENED
Sunita Passi makes Ayurveda understandable in the modern context
Writer Kate O’Brien
S
unita Passi is a natural wellness
entrepreneur and visionary. A
qualified journalist and Ayurvedic
health coach, she is founder of UK-based
Ayurvedic training provider and product
houses, Tri-Dosha and Neem, which
supplies authentic Ayurvedic skincare and
training to top spas and retreats worldwide,
including Kempinski and Four Seasons
hotels. Internationally renowned for her
knowledge and technical expertise, she
demystifies the ancient Indian system,
helping it make sense in a modern world. A
meditation devotee, she is also co-founder
of the Nottingham-based meditation project
Unplugged Space.
The granddaughter of an Ayurvedic
doctor, Passi was born in London and grew
up in Nottingham, qualifying with a master’s
degree in investigative journalism. She
enjoyed a successful business journalistic
career, working in Europe, Asia and the
Americas. It was while based in India
in 2002 – the ninth country she called
home over a four-year period – that she
first experienced the healing powers of
Ayurveda, with a chance massage changing
the course of her work and her life. “Lying
on a medicinal couch (more of a wooden
slab!) in some out-of-the-way side street
in Pune, I experienced what I can only
describe as an epiphany. I enjoyed the best
massage ever, although the therapists hardly
touched me, and underwent something of a
deep energetic transformation.”
As Passi began to settle into the country
of her roots, she felt profoundly as if she
had returned home. “Although I never lived
in India, everything felt so familiar – the
sounds, the smells, the tastes. It was as
if the daily rhythms were just my ‘norm’
and ultimately, I found a sense of calm

and peace. After the massage experience, Passi flooded her being. As a child on to complement the
I started learning more about Ayurveda holiday in Northern India, she recalls service, combining
and as the wisdom became a part of my watching him prescribe herbs to patients, medicinal herbs
life, I realised just how unbalanced I was, while instilling a knowledge of nature and sourced from
working out twice a day just to cope with the tools to appreciate life with those he independent farmers
my life. I wasn’t alone either, as most of my encountered through his work, as well as her grandfather
colleagues existed this way too.” family. worked with quality
Passi took a year out to travel around Being of Indian heritage with the essential oils.
India, Nepal and Thailand. mysteries of nature and spirituality already To date, Passi has
One of the first places she visited was the embedded in her consciousness helped trained close to 800
Sivananda Centre in Kerala. “The practices Passi immensely. She says, “It just needed therapists in Ayurvedic healing techniques.
were difficult at first, but as I cultivated a to be awakened through my own journey of She says, “When I train therapists, I don’t
daily rhythm I started to feel better about self-discovery. I think the intensity of this trip delve deep into Ayurvedic philosophy.
myself and to let go of the stress and pain. lit a fire in me which then formed the basis of I teach techniques that will bring more
With this came a deep feeling of peace. At the company I created, one that would serve balance and harmony into their own, and
an ashram in Pune, I learnt that by simply holistic therapists and practitioners in the clients’, lives. But, Ayurveda is much greater
being more present and mindful in my UK with expert training, who then radiate than this. It heals the world and all of us,
actions, I developed a deeper connection and it’s my life purpose to share profound
within myself and ultimately to a calmer
“...with the crazy pace teachings that can help transport students
state.” into a better space.“
The more Passi learnt about Ayurveda, of our lives, there is an Her clients are generally highly-strung,
the more convinced she became that these ambitious types with pitta (fiery) constitutions
powerfully grounding techniques can help emerging acceptance of this and overworked bodies and minds. Passi has
in every aspect of our lives. From stress learnt that not only do clients resonate with
relief to sleeping more soundly, feeling
stronger and ultimately the realisation that
ancient wisdom” a particular type of methodology, but also
a particular type of energy in their teacher.
life is about celebration, and not just getting the techniques out to a wider community.” She says, “Even in impossibly tough times,
through the day, as she had done for so long. In 2005, Tri-Dosha, a training provider of a sense of truth prevails when we see
“At the various ashrams I tried desperately accredited massage training/education and something in a teacher that can link us to
to absorb truth. I couldn’t pull myself away. a result of Passi’s experiences, developed transformation. Seeing someone finally get
I became so detached from mainstream life into an award-winning health and beauty their mojo back, feel more confident in their
that coming back to the UK was extremely manufacturer. She says, “This wasn’t skin or find the love of their life, simply
difficult,” says Passi. “In retrospect, I almost intentional, which is the beauty of our because their energy flows more freely and
felt as if I was being asked to give up story, as everything happened organically. they connect more naturally.”
everyday life, which was quite scary, but I worked with holistic experts, teachers and Seeing herself as a bridge connecting
ultimately drew me to authentic teachers formulators, and was importing traditional people, Passi awakens these deep concepts
who helped me get closer to my truth. And Indian oils for use in treatments.” within her students. She says, “There is a
as a result, I now have more to share with Though Passi personally likes the nutty lot of intellectual elitism in Ayurveda. If
others.” quality of Ayurvedic oils, they were too you want to share timeless knowledge,
Throughout Passi’s journey, the pungent for the mainstream market. This the teachings need to be simplified into
memories of her grandfather, Hazari Lal inspired her to develop a range of oils everyday language. It’s not about dilution,
but presenting it in a way that the West
will understand – just like what happened
with yoga.”
Through writing her first book, a
practical guide to the Ayurvedic lifestyle,
Passi aims to achieve this. She says, “We
are living in a precious time as we are
challenged in many ways – emotionally and
environmentally. Ayurveda takes us back to
our basic essence, and with the crazy pace
of our lives, there is an emerging acceptance
of this ancient wisdom. The real beauty is
that we don’t need to look any further – with
Ayurveda everything we need is already
there – it just needs to be awakened.”
www.unpluggedspace.org

TheLook
STEP OUT IN STYLE
BOLD BOTANICS STARRY EYED
M Missoni
Chantecaille
Tiffany
Chloé
Red Valentino
Tom Ford
Giambattista Valli
Oscar de la Renta
Oscar de la Renta
Gucci
Mulberry Pedder Red
Oscar de la Renta

StyleNomad
High Flyer
Fashion stylist, image consultant and creator of vnikali.com,
Veronica Li reveals staples for making travel chic
FOLLOWING INTUITION
VL: When you don’t know anyone, you can
explore and discover more about your inner
thoughts. Always seek something different
and your trip will be memorable. The best
compass/map for me is my gut feeling. I like
to get lost to find my own way out.
DESERT ISLAND ITEM

VL: Ideally I’d take my husband!
But if I had to choose an item, I would
bring a huge bag of seeds so I can
grow something to eat and start
a life there.
WARDROBE ESSENTIALS to experiment with trends, but I always

VL: Minimalistic, smart and at times, quirky. try to ensure my outfits look timeless and
elegant. Accessories are a key attribute of
HOT RIGHT NOW mine whether it’s a pretty bow, chic bag or
VL: The Tumi Voyageur Leather Halle statement earrings – they always put the
Backpack is one of my wardrobe staples. finishing touch on any outfit.
It effortlessly raises the style stakes of any
outfit, while allowing me to go about my SPA TIME
daily life with minimum fuss. I love the VL: I love Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong’s
padded 12” laptop compartment sleeve, signature spa therapies, especially the
which I can easily slip my laptop into, as Chinese Herbal Steam. Inside the steam
well as the two exterior pockets for quick room I can clear my mind while the Chinese
and easy access to my phone and keys. herbal scent enhances my immune system.
DON’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT SUPREME STAY

VL: My laptop, an eye mask and my passport VL: Bulgari Bali, where we enjoyed their
of course! private sandy beach. The tram ride to the
beach was breathtaking and we got there
SMELLS LIKE early so it felt like we owned the beach.
VL: Hermes, Galop d’Hermès. I love the
dusky, woody, leathery scent and the APPETITE FOR
concept of a recycled bottle filled. VL: Torre d’Alta Mar in Barcelona. I love the
whole experience and their tasting menu,
BEAUTY REGIME which is full of surprises.
VL: Start your day by washing your face with
lukewarm lemon water and giving yourself TOP SPOT
a five-minute aloe vera facial. VL: Anywhere where I can escape for
a while, ideally with my husband and
MY LOOK without a Wi-Fi connection. Igloo Village
Clockwise from top left:
VL: My personal style takes inspiration Kakslauttanen, Finland is a personal Bulgari Bali; Galop d’
from the past, present and future. I like highlight! Hermès; Veronica Li

HeavenScent
Winter Redolence
Cosy up with these luscious scents
1. A creamy melange inspired by the

idea of the memory of a past love,
Calvin Klein Obsessed for women has
1
a masculine fougère structure, while
featuring feminine notes. White lavender
takes centre stage, supported by citrusy
2
top notes and a rich musky base.
www.calvinklein.com
2. Featuring the addictive note of almond,

Girl of Now by Elie Saab is an oriental
floral with orange blossom, jasmine,
magnolia and bitter almond at its heart.
Its voluptuousness is contrasted by
the sparkling introduction of pear and
pistachio and intensified by warm
patchouli, tonka bean, cashmeran and
almond milk in the dry down.
www.eliesaab.com
3
3. Michael Kors Sexy Ruby captures the
brilliance of the gemstone with scents of
raspberry and apricot, creating a bright
opening. Jasmine and rose petals follow
to add a sensual layer, while warm
cashmere wood concludes the olfactory
journey.
www.michaelkors.com
4. Contained within the iconic Valentino

studded glass bottle is the new Valentino
Donna Acqua eau de toilette, a fruity-
floral fragrance that starts off sweet and
4 5
gradually melts into a warm, sensual
base. Key notes include pear, frangipani,
sandalwood and hawthorn, but most
memorable is the green almond opening,
which has a fresh, nutty sweetness.
www.valentino.com
5. The latest flanker of the 2015 original

L’Extase, Nina Ricci’s Rose Extase is both
daring and enticing. Built around the
succulent heart of rose and raspberry,
the eau de toilette has a slightly sweet
opening, featuring red berries. It’s further
enriched by base notes of vanilla, musk
and amber, which leave a memorable,
seductive trail.
www.ninaricci.com
6. Following the success of La Femme

6
Prada, Prada launches an enriched
version of the white floral scent.
Described as a “thorough exploration”
of the flower, La Femme Prada Intense
focuses on the tuberose heart, which is
blended with ylang-ylang and patchouli
to create a lush ensemble.
www.prada.com

SmoothMoves
WHERE THE MIND GOES,

THE BODY FOLLOWS
Long revered for its spiritual and mental benefits, mindfulness now takes
sports performance to the next level
Writer Joanna Lam

W
hat motivates people to
exercise? While some
wish to enhance physical
attractiveness, others are peer pressured into
joining the city’s ‘it’ gyms, while the rest may
be motivated to improve health. In a fast-
paced, ever-evolving metropolis like Hong
Kong where work-life balance is far-fetched,
many struggle to adhere to exercise routines.
The rise of mindfulness has sparked
interest among researchers and sports
psychologists worldwide, prompting
them to look into the influence of this
ancient meditation practice on maximising
competitive sports performances and
encourage ongoing physical activity.
Term Decoded
Originally rooted in Buddhist philosophy,
mindfulness is a practice with more than
2,500 years of history. The concept has
sprung up in the last decade, fuelled
by a new global interest in yoga and
MAN CLIMBING DOWN/THINKSTOCK; ATHLETE RUNNING WITH TIRE TIED TO ROPE AROUND
meditation, its popularity meaning it is

WAIST/THINKSTOCK; THE FEMALE ATHLETE RUNNING ON RUNING TRACK/THINKSTOCK
no longer constrained behind the closed

doors of studios, rather branching out from is 90 per cent mental. Dr Steven Selchen,
clinical and therapeutic settings, entering director of mindfulness-based therapies at
classrooms and beyond. Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center says,
Mindfulness is the quality or state of “I often talk about mindfulness as training
being aware, achieved by focusing on the the mind the way physical exercise is
present – one’s thoughts, feelings and bodily training the body. Mindfulness is more
sensations within this space. Most sports about tuning into our experience so we can
psychologists will tell you that performance handle it better.”

SmoothMoves
and performance psychology consulting
Mental Fitness company based in Hong Kong believes
The effectiveness of mindfulness to improve negative thoughts can have a detrimental
athletic accomplishments at a competitive impact on athletic performance, which can
level can be been seen among a growing be reversed with a change in perception.
number of elite athletes, including Michael She says, “If we are accepting, instead
Jordan and the Seattle Seahawks, who of criticising the situation, then this can
adopted meditation to enhance performance. prevent negative emotions from affecting
World-class tennis player Novak our performance.”
Djokovic has underlined how mental Fatigue, soreness and stiffness can
excellence is equally responsible for his be obstacles that make sticking to an
success as the physical side. His book Serve exercise programme challenging. Lo finds
to Win describes how the top-notch athlete that appraising feelings and sensations
practises mindfulness for 15 minutes daily, can counteract habitual cognitive and
to let go of self-doubt, anger and worry, physiological reactions. She says, “When
detach from negative past experiences, and encountering pain, notice which part of
learn not to worry about excelling in future your body it comes from, be aware that
competitions. it is happening and non-judgmentally
Karen Lo, sports psychologist and the notice the feelings. After a while, you will
founder and director of Inner Edge, a sport realise that you are going with the flow
FITNESS AND WORKOUT WELLNESS CONCEPT/THINKSTOCK
and that the pain will eventually fade.”

She highlights the importance of initially
identifying whether the pain is injury
induced or a result of fatigue to employ
the appropriate mindfulness technique.
Being conscious of energy levels, aches
and overall physical condition provides a
scale for your current condition and can
be beneficial in protecting the body from
harm.
With an increasing number of elite
athletes turning to mindfulness meditation
to overcome adversity, stay focused, avoid
distraction and perform better, it is safe to
assume that more sportsmen will focus on
making mental well-being a priority.

“It’s crucial to set clear objectives
prior to beginning your exercise
routine to help maximise workout
intensity”
~ Natasha Syz
Daily Practice people are often dedicated to fitness for a

short period of time only. For example I have
what got you to the gym in the first place,
whether it is for health, to build strength or
While mindfulness is crucial in the field of a client who would train every single day, but lose weight.”
professional sport, how does the practice of in a month or so, she is nowhere to be found.” Syz says, “It is crucial to set clear
mindfulness enhance physical goals in our However, with frequent practice and objectives prior to beginning your
daily lives? When it comes to exercise, there meditation, mindfulness can potentially exercise routine to help maximise
is often a disconnect between being aware bridge the gap between good intentions workout intensity. It’s about pursuing
of the benefits of exercise and actually and taking action, fuelling you with internal dedication and consistency with a purpose.”
following through with a routine. motivation. For instance, when you’re Setting realistic, achievable goals also creates
Natassia Syz, personal trainer and class exhausted after a long day of work and a foundation for consistency. “Begin by
instructor at TopFit believes many Hong debating whether or not to go to the gym, setting a long-term goal then break it down
Kongers lack consistency when it comes Syz says, “It’s important to acknowledge into smaller, manageable goals. Regular
to exercise. “Long working hours, frequent and accept your emotions, and that you are reviews of the results will give you a clearer
business trips or travelling and loss of interest tired, but the key is to take a step back and picture of successes and set-backs, and allow
are just some of the factors that prevent them understand that you are in the situation with you to readjust according to your physical
from pursing fitness goals,” she says. “Many a neutral, rational mindset. Remind yourself condition and life circumstances.”

InnerRetreat
ANTIDOTE TO
CITY LIVING
The Wellness Rejuvenation Retreat Programme at Fivelements Hong Kong proves
wellness shortcuts exist, better yet with long-term benefits

InnerRetreat
T
hink about a weekend getaway and
chances are you’re envisioning a
flight somewhere beachy. But for
those living in the hectic ‘Fragrant Harbour’,
a reset is as easy as a taxi ride to Sai Kung.
Nestled in bucolic greens, Fivelements
Hong Kong is a holistic sports wellness
destination serving athlete training support,
family wellness and executive programmes
at Hong Kong Golf & Tennis Academy. It’s
just the thing for families seeking quiet time,
the athletically inclined in need of a tune-
up, or spa-goers after the same fix that their
original Bali property in is well known for.
Skyscrapers and smog behind you, the
quality of the treatments, food, therapists
and practitioners make it clear that Zen can
be accessed without a passport. The first
aspect to impress was careful consideration
of the consultation form, always compulsory,
usually glossed over. Here each point was
addressed and clarified before a customised
plan for my two-day retreat was drawn up,
based around the needs I identified in the
oft overlooked paperwork – a focus on
relaxation and stress relief.

InnerRetreat
THIS PAGE: Sakti Dining Room provides a rare

opportunity to eat in complete peace; the Water Healing
Journey is an absolute must. OPPOSITE PAGE: A creative
space for yoga and other transformative practices
In a city like Hong Kong where the levels of stress and
burnout are tremendous – these are the people who need it most

ESSENTIAL REBOOT
To address the mental and emotional health, After taking stock of everything we Michael focuses on diaphragmatic
wellness liaison Michael Hallock created feel, hear and sense, thoughts dissipate as breathing, a crucial part of mental well-
Secrets of Meditation and Mindfulness, observations intensify – exactly the desired being as thought patterns change according
tackling the immensity of the subject in outcome. I became fixated on the ‘light to our breath. He helps me get used to
two parts. The first meditation involves show’ taking place in my mind, colours breathing into the belly, rather than the
asking each other “What do you notice?” and patterns filling the darkness. Michael chest, by imagining pushing against an
and we take turns describing sounds, explains this in itself is a technique which imaginary belt. To slow and lengthen the
sensations, feelings and thoughts settling perhaps came naturally to me as a more breath, he recommends the humming
into seated positions, eyes closed. Sounds visual person. The idea that everyone may bee breath, or bhramari pranayama, to
simple, but repeating the question made have a meditation strategy unique to their reduce anxiety through the naturally
the session interactive, as opposed to personality is encouraging, and I sense a soothing effect of the humming vibrations,
a guided meditation where zoning out perceptible shift towards calm. especially before bed to improve the
happens too easily. The second meditation session with chance of quality sleep.

InnerRetreat
SACRED SPACE is a session with one of their Sacred Artists.

The Water Healing Journey is a must, and I was fortunate enough to spend time with
Fivelements Hong Kong is the only place Anne, who specialises in somatic bodywork,
offering it the city. Reading its description and teaches me tension reduction exercises
as a combination of shiatsu, stretching and to unwind knots in the muscles and fascia,
dance in water was challenging to imagine, the body’s connective tissue. These trigger
but it’s exactly those things, yet much more neurogenic tremors, a relaxation reflex
at the same time. The warmth of the pool achieved through wall sits, butterflied legs
induces serenity and fluid movement, and hip raises on a mat, which are believed
awakening the joints and easing tension. to activate the body’s natural process of
It’s like being in a dream where you lose restoring balance.
sense of time and special awareness, being The subtle vibrations allow unused
swirled around in womb-like surroundings adrenaline to be drained away, encouraging
like a piece of seaweed. If that’s hard to the production of new feel-good hormones.
imagine, it’s because you have to experience Surprisingly taxing, as soon as Anne asks
it to understand. There’s an element of me to lie down on the mat afterwards, I
vulnerability and trust involved, particularly doze for what seems like an age, as she
if you’re open to being submerged, which performs shiatsu. It was only really 10
feels like being tumbled in a washing minutes but I feel incredibly restored.
machine, yet with the grace of a ballerina, Apparently practising the techniques for
emerging both energised and serene. just a few minutes a day can provide an
Another uniquely Fivelements offering effective reset.
ART ON A PLATE
If you think vegan, gluten-free cuisine
sounds humdrum, think again. Chef Arnaud
Hauchon makes every meal something
to look forward to with his whimsical
take on flavours, textures and technique.
Breakfast is a rainbow of fruit, Earl Grey
chia seed pudding, almond plum granola
with coconut yoghurt or cashew milk and
mint and Thai basil green smoothies – a
wholesome change from stodgy buffets, so
you’re actually treating yourself and not just
your taste buds.
Despite being three-course affairs, lunch
leaves you light and energised starting
with the most delicate of salads, lychee
‘in greens’ with fennel, capsicums, ginger
and scallions and cashews. The main only
gets artier with steamed chickpea cakes
embellished with paper-thin zucchini
‘scales’ complemented by roasted aubergine
cream, cherry tomatoes and grapes, pine
If you think vegan, gluten-free cuisine

nuts and curry leaf oil. The dessert of
burnt pine meringue, steamed plums
and a tarragon verbena sorbet atop five-
sounds humdrum, think again spice granola will have you in disbelief

Moon, who combines deep kneading with
stretching and joint mobilisation to ease
tightness from the gym.
On the second day, Komang performs
the Spice Island Tribute which begins with a
Balinese boreh scrub made from powdered
rice, clove and ginger to slough away dead
skin and improve circulation. A detoxifying
green clay body mask is applied, left to work
its magic in the steam room preceding a
Balinese massage, after which I am bundled
back to the real world in a cocooned haze.
The two days were a revelation. I was
surprised at how quickly I experienced the
same peace that usually means boarding a
plane somewhere tropical. The greenery and
that something this good relies purely on TAKING PAUSE blissed-out vibe feels like you could be in a far
Surabaya honey and orange blossom custard In the same way the eatery staff are characters off jungle anyway. It makes sense in a city like
for sweetness. in the Fivelements story, therapists are an Hong Kong where levels of stress and burnout
It was difficult not to have hefty integral part of the experience, handpicked are tremendous – that these are the people
expectations for dinner, given the for their nurturing dispositions. Trained to who need it most. And without the need to
introduction to Chef Hauchon’s ingenious see each treatment as an opportunity to commit to a week-long cleanse, it’s a fast track
creations. But of course, he delivered, give through touch, they are healers in their to wellness, but without cutting corners –
blowing the mind with watermelon ‘treasure own right. The Bali Usada Muscle Release an exciting prospect for the city dweller.
box’ with dragonfruit and cherry tomatoes, is chosen for me, a firm massage with www.hkgta.com/fivelements
with the unexpected addition of sambal that
made this starter next level. The smoked
beetroot tartare continued along the same
vein, description of cucumber sour cream
watercress and beetroot gel not quite doing
the beautifully plated dish justice.
For a hearty main, the sweet potato in
coconut curry with green papaya salad and
a sweet chilli cashew tuile is a bit like a
cuddle, warm and comforting. But desserts
are where Chef Hauchon really shines. As
someone who used to think non-chocolate
endings were a waste of time, his coconut
and rose, rambutan, green papaya and
lemongrass sorbet, made me a convert.
That being said, I still manage to inhale his
artisanal raw Balinese truffles.

Well-Being
INSIDE
INFORMATION
Advice from wellness industry experts
Writer Zoe Louise Cronk

Well-Being
A
live with lights and demandingly knew I wanted to be part of it. I will be
energetic, city life is made up of forever grateful for the opportunity Leonie
many things. Slivers of sunshine gave me when she accepted my offer to
between skyscrapers, bursts of green amidst make tea and pack boxes.”
the chrome and a baseline hum that fades The next few years saw Mac lead
gradually into your subconscious. Peace and something of a double life. Some days,
tranquillity become something of a fantasy she was the glamorous model travelling
amidst the urban buzz, so how do the city the world shooting campaigns and
dwellers find serenity, and strike that elusive commercials, while other days were spent,
work-life balance? I sat down with some of as she describes it, “on my knees in Fulham
the wellness industry’s top names to find out. Road packing mail orders and making tea”.
It was the courage to leave a design she had
GLOBETROTTING drawn on Leonie’s desk that demonstrated
YOGI her creative flair. Her proposal later went

into production and was the spark that
It’s not often that the face of a brand was inspired Mac to spend the following decade
once the tea-maker, and even less often that learning the brand ethos and working her
the woman in question goes on to become way up.
its creative director 15 years later, but so Today, Mac’s role as creative director sees
goes the story of Sarah Mac. her “travelling to visit factories, attending
Her career as a model, actress and buyer meetings and roaming around old
creative director for luxury yoga brand museums looking for inspiration”, and
Manuka Life affords her a hectic schedule it’s clear she loves nothing more than
that takes her all over the world. I’m bringing a new range to fruition. “Collection
immediately intrigued by her beautifully development in particular is always crazy
poised and modest facade, and how she busy, but I’m addicted to it secretly!” she
maintains it amidst the mayhem. admits.
At the age of 21, Mac was selected as The latest range from Manuka Life
the face of Manuka Life and introduced to celebrates finding peace and hidden
founder Leonie Ellyatt, where she recalls nature in the city, and as a self-confessed
there being an “instant connection”. She combination of the country and city, I’m
says, “I just fell in love with the brand and curious to know how Mac manages this in
Grace Belgravia is London’s only health and well-

being members club for women
her own life. “Yoga, yoga, yoga,” she says.

“It’s the breathing; it’s the only thing that
works for me.”
As for how Mac knows when it’s time
to take a break, her response is refreshingly
genuine. “I’m ashamed to admit after I’ve
normally shouted at some poor innocent
bystander at rush hour, that’s when I realise
a time out is overdue! Four yoga classes a
week keeps my inner angry lady at bay.”
A pamper session in Mac’s world
includes waking up without an alarm, a
spritz of her favourite scent Le Labo Rose
31 and the essential oil aromas of Candle
Petit Grain. She loves wandering around
art galleries and being “inspired by the
colour palettes of olde”. And because a
modern woman would be nothing without

motion to add a digital activewear store to
a guilty pleasure, a few hours of Netflix MEDITATIVE MAMA the site. “We were the first online luxury
complete her indulgence. “I love nothing Meet Sadie Reid, founder and editor multi-branded sportswear retailer and it’s
more than curling up with my two feisty of online well-being magazine Hip & amazing to see how the market has grown,”
cats and boyfriend,” she says. “Though a Healthy. Juggling life as a mum and a she says. “Three years ago we started with
yoga retreat, exploring an exhibit or renting hugely successful online publication, just five brands. We now have around 40
a house somewhere would also come high (while making it look effortless), Reid has and are approached by new designers every
on the list.” achieved an incredible amount in a short day. We pride ourselves on only working
It was in Paris that Mac recalls finding period of time. I find out her go-to methods with people whose philosophy fits ours.”
inspiration for the A/W 2017 campaign for rekindling her sense of inner calm when What does an average day look like for
theme of escapism, peace and nature. The the day-to-day gets too much. Reid? Busy, yet even the briefest of insights
fern graphics, she says, “serve as a reminder Going back to the beginning, Reid into her daily routine reveals a balanced,
to journey into your own personally carved explains how Hip & Healthy was born out seamless transition between maternal,
space in your city. You cannot always of “a desire to fill a gap in the market for professional and alone time, which could
escape on a luxury getaway or embark on stylish and beautifully curated health, fitness just be the secret to her success. Her day
an epic journey at the drop of a yoga mat. and lifestyle content”. Seeking to inspire starts at around 6.30am with meditation
Sometimes we have to do that in our own her readers to become the best versions and herbal tea, before breakfast with her
minds, wherever we are.” of themselves, the wheels were soon in husband and three-year-old son Max.

reflects on her realisation that she would
never again have the same amount of time
to exercise or spend on herself. “That was
a hard adjustment for me as running was
something that not only calmed me but had
become a big part of who I was. As Max
got older, I managed to regain running time
by prioritising it. I want to be a strong and
healthy mum who can do anything!”
CALM CREATOR
Grace Belgravia is London’s only health
and well-being members club for women,
and the brain behind it, CEO and co-
founder Kate Percival is one serious power
female. Following an extensive career
in communications and branding, she
went back to university in 2009 to earn a
Master’s degree in Luxury Brands & Services,
winning University Thesis Prize for her thesis
on ‘The Convergence of Medicine and
the Global Spa Industry’. She says, “This
provided the basis of the business plan for
Grace: a sanctuary for women and a place
that supports them in health and well-being,
as well as in mind and soul.”
As a businesswoman and working
mother, Percival is passionate about
encouraging women to get the very best
Her working hours in the office are broken centred, explaining, “It often feels counter-
up by a nutritious lunch and sweet treat from intuitive to drop everything and sit quietly
a nearby healthy eatery, and leaving at 4pm doing nothing when you feel overwhelmed
means she can squeeze in a run before the with the amount you have to do, but it helps
nursery pick-up. It’s then that Reid says she me think more clearly and be much more
makes a conscious effort to put her phone efficient.” She adds, “I also go for long runs
away and “just focus on him”. After bath, for a sort of moving meditation. For me,
story and bedtime for Max, she will log back truly looking after yourself means doing
on and work for a few hours in the evening, something that feels nourishing. It could be
but says, “My husband and I always try and a long bath with a good book, a massage
wind down for an hour or so before bed.” at home or a yoga class. Being a mum has
Balanced they may be, but there’s no made me want to be healthier than ever!”
denying Reid’s days are full of activity. She When asked how motherhood has
credits meditation as helping her to stay changed her approach to wellness, Reid

out of life. She is a champion of preventative
medicine and ageing well, which is at the
heart of the Grace philosophy.
It may have been open for nearly five
years, but Grace Belgravia still demands
a 60-hour week; a schedule that Percival
balances with holidays and time with family
and friends. “My husband has been amazing
and fully supportive because he knows that
I need the mental stimulation of working.
Holidays are now factored in, although
admittedly with two or three hours a day of
emails as a daily routine!” Percival admits.
Based in London, Percival is a city girl at
heart. “I love the excitement and stimulation
of living in a city. Variety is the spice of life
and I love the cultural diversity and how
many different experiences one can enjoy
in a city like London. We have some of
the best restaurants in the world, stunning
architecture and design, access to the best
of fashion, art and theatre. That’s what makes
city life so interesting.”
However, Percival’s still values the
well-being benefits of rural living, and is
sometimes just what the doctor ordered.
“I also love escaping to the countryside or
sea for freedom from the constant noise of
phones, emails and people. Lots of fresh air
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: Sadie Reid’s online

magazine Hip & Healthy has a digitial activewear
store; Sarah Mac was the face and is now creative
director of Manuka Life; Sadie Reid; Kate Percival;
Sarah Mac
and total silence is utter bliss. The mental

and emotional freedom that I cannot get
with the constant noise of London is hugely
beneficial and restorative.”
As well as weekly walks around Hyde
Park with her daughters, Percival now
maintains internal equilibrium through
quality shut-eye. “I believe in the importance
of a good night’s sleep and try to fit in seven
hours a night wherever possible. When I
get those precious hours, I do feel on top
of the world.” And in terms of beauty, she
finds facials to be one of the most relaxing
treatments, adding “A really good therapist
will make sure that they also massage your
neck, back, décolletage and feet during
the down-time of a rejuvenating collagen
mask.”

Well-Being
MINDFULNESS
AMPED Often perceived as a source of distraction,
technology also has the capacity to enhance self-
awareness
Writer Vicki Williams
YOUNG WOMAN LYING ON GRASS, WEARING HEADPHONES, SMILING./THINKSTOCK

Well-Being
SOUNDING OUT
I
f mindfulness is the practice of paying is now so mainstream it is big business.
particular attention, to the present It is equally strong in both the wellness Launched in September 2017 and claimed
moment (without judgement) then and corporate sectors, due largely to the to be the first of its kind by its collaborators,
simply focusing on each in and out breath increasing measurable benefits. is one of the newest ways technology
for any length of time can be considered While the benefits are not new, and mindfulness are merging in the spa
being mindful. Noticing each time you sit what is growing is the role technology is environment. Launched at Plateau Spa at
down, or the sensation of water on your increasingly playing in the way we seek a The Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, the 60-minute
skin in the shower are also examples of mindful state. This includes apps, wearables Voyage des Sens experience is the result
mindfulness. and innovative spa treatments, with creators of a joint effort between the five-star hotel
This fully present and in the moment (in considering technology to help, not hinder, and innovative French breakthrough sound
mind and body) state, credited to Buddhism, blissful states of consciousness. technology company Devialet.

soundscape is played through Devialet’s found the treatment a unique and powerful
Gold Phantom speakers, which are placed at way to experience mindfulness.
a measured proximity to the treatment bed. Interestingly some of the most impactful
“Mindfulness is a key aspect that brands sounds are not heard. Chris Craker, Founder,
aim to deliver and it is surprising that audio Karma Studios explains, “Some sounds are
storytelling has not been explored more embodied just outside the range of normal
yet. This collaboration with Plateau Spa is a human hearing and are reputed to enhance
great opportunity for us all to imagine what cell repair and stimulate the immune
audio storytelling could become, especially system. A lot of research is being done in
with more evidence about the link between this area and the results appear to be pretty
wellness and sound,” says Julien Bergère, conclusive.”
general manager of Devialet Asia Pacific. Craker believes that this particular
Bergère adds, “This is a first for us, soundscape intensifies the mindful aspect
and perhaps in the world, of harnessing due to its base in nature. He says, “Unlike
the power of audio storytelling to explore most spa music tracks, this soundscape
undiscovered possibilities in the traditional relies heavily on natural sounds, and we
spa journey and evolve the concept of treated these to be constantly evolving and
holistic wellness. We believe there is a lot morphing from one to another. Guests are
more to be explored in audio storytelling in the sounds of nature and one is taken on
and unorthodox sensorial experiences, a long journey that’s constantly inspiring.”
to allow people to discover the power of Additionally, not just any speaker will
sound and evoke real emotions that bring do. The Gold Phantom speakers reproduce
mindfulness and wellness to body and soul.” frequencies that no other speakers of
The experience is enhanced through domestic size can, thanks to the company’s
the touch/massage element, choreographed unique patented technology. Bergère says,
seamlessly with the sounds, transporting “Only through our speakers are we able
guests into a deeper meditative/mindful state to reproduce infra bass frequencies below
than traditional spa massage. Personally, I the human hearing spectrum, to create
24096255./THINKSTOCK
The full-body treatment is performed

to a unique soundtrack inspired by hidden
sanctuaries of Hong Kong. Compiled of
genuine recordings made exclusively for this
spa experience, it includes sounds such as
raindrops falling on leaves, the breath-like
sound of wind blowing over a famous ridge,
a temple and a teahouse.
The French company captured and
recorded the sounds, wrote the storyline
and soundscape, working with noted Karma
Studios on the mixing and development. The

Well-Being
mild internal vibrations void of sound for a company receiving attention in this sector
unique meditative experience.” is Spire, and its mindfulness-on-the-go
“With this project, we wish to take wearable product. The award-winning
guests on a meditative journey, where you device attaches to clothing tracking
feel like floating in the matter of sound, breathing patterns, providing feedback
commanding images, sensations, that relate designed to enhance emotional and
to your personal history,” says Bergère. “You cognitive mindfulness and well-being.
don’t need to focus on a thread of thoughts: According to Neema Moraveji, co-
LOOK UP IN A DENSE PINE FOREST./THINKSTOCK
you are effortlessly brought to follow the founder and chief scientist at Spire, “Due to
audible tapestry of images and sensations. its unique role being under both conscious
This treatment is a completely novel way and subconscious control, respiration acts
to relax the body and the mind, bringing as a sort of gas and brake pedals for the mind
mindfulness as you are transported from the and nervous system. Conscious breathing
city to nature.” is the foundational technique to influence
aspects of the nervous system, including
HAPPILY ATTACHED blood pressure and heart rate.”
For mindfulness in the office or the home, A result of years of scientific research,
wearables are an interesting option. A the device employs technology and the
increasing understanding of the relationship

of breath and nervous system and benefits
that come from healthy breathing patterns.
Being constantly reminded of breathing state
automatically keeps one mindful.
The company says that Spire is the
world’s only wearable proven to reduce
stress, with plenty of stats and studies to back
up the claim. Features include a live breath
feed, daily summary with breath categories
such as calm, focused or tense. There is
also a complimentary and complementary
Boosts section of meditations and mindful
tracks from luminaries such as Deepak
Chopra. For the time-pressed, there is a 30
seconds to calm Boost, and 30 seconds to
shift Boost – perfect pre meeting.

SLOW SWIPE to make the world happier and healthier
through the superpower of Calm. We have
Smith sums up the pro-technology argument
by saying: “Technology increasingly plays a
A third tech mindful sector is Apps, perhaps
over 11 million app downloads to date. role in all aspects of our lives. We’ve found
the first partnering of technology and
While meditation is the foundation we want that it makes mindfulness more accessible
mindfulness. Headspace was one of the
to provide a variety of relaxing options, and easier to learn. It’s a new route to
first apps to establish themselves in the
which is why we include a meditation learning a meditation practice that wouldn’t
wellness sector and continue to be a leader
library of stories, music, nature scenes and have been possible before smartphones.”
meditation offerings, but there is now
other features.” “We see the connection and accessibility
much more competition, with new apps
Smith believes that mindful practices are that technology provides as a major asset,”
released frequently. Also making waves is
growing as “people are increasingly stressed says Smith. “Calm provides an oasis of
free app Calm. Like Headspace, it offers an
and anxious, and turning to methods they relaxation on mobile devices that people are
assortment of guided meditations, which
might not have considered previously to already hooked into, and can actually help
range from three- to 25-minute sessions,
help them relax, such as mindfulness.” decrease smartphone usage, if that is a habit
Daily Calm, a 10-minute meditation, plus
There is the debate about whether we the listener is interested in working on.”
sleep stories and soothing sounds, breathing
technology should be used for a mindfulness Whether you are tech pro or tech no –
exercises as well as the unguided variety.
practice, along the lines of – we are already with increasing options and understanding,
Layna Smith, head of customer
too connected to the digital world without experiencing mindfulness has never been
experience at Calm, says, “Our mission is
relying on it for present-moment calmness. easier.

Top10
AYURVEDIC
RETREATS
10
Writer Kate O’Brien
Ayurvedic retreats are the new superheroes of the wellness world,

delivering a healing combination of dosha-specific meals and
therapies, yoga, meditation and treatments to rebalance energy levels
and rediscover internal stillness
1
Ananda in the Himalayas,
India
At the foothills of the Himalayas and close to the ashram
town of Rishikesh (the birthplace of yoga), Ananda is
home to deep spiritual and emotional healing. With
packages available from one to three weeks, inclusive
of traditional massage and Shirodhara therapies as
well as more complex, doctor-assisted programmes
designed to cleanse and recharge both body and
mind. Daily yoga and meditation amidst the cleansing
Himalayan air are the norm, as is the delicious and
nourishing customised cuisine to rebalance the body,
reduce stress and enhance overall health.
www.anandaspa.com

2
Ulpotha, Sri Lanka
Ulpotha is a rare antidote to modern life.
Nestled in a sustainable organic farm in an
ancient pilgrimage site on the western fringes
of Sri Lanka, the relaxed natural environment
and homegrown cuisine heightens the benefits
of the panchakarma detox, oleation and yogic
programmes. With accommodation in mud-
style huts, no electricity, hot water or doors,
Ulpotha is not for everyone, but those seeking
peace and spiritual renewal tend to become
hooked. Dr Srilal, the resident physician designs
guests’ personalised detoxification plans and all
treatments are done in accordance with ancient
traditional Ayurveda therapeutics.
www.ulpotha.com
3
Somatheeram Ayurvedic Health
Resort, India
For almost 30 years, the physicians at the Somatheeram Ayurvedic therapists led by Dr Sreelatha and Dr C. A. Raman have cared
Health Resort, nestled within lush gardens in the heart of for more than 12,000 clients through programmes ranging from
Kerala, have cleansed and rebalanced weary bodies from all classic panchakarma to weight reduction and rebalancing,
corners of the world. In fact, Somatheeram was amongst the first ranging from seven to 28 days duration. Accommodation is clean,
retreats to introduce this rich cultural philosophy to the Western simple and vey much in keeping with the ethos of the resort.
world. The hugely experienced team of Ayurvedic doctors and www.somatheeram.org

Top10
4
One World Ayurveda, Indonesia
Situated in lush rice fields in the hills of Ubud, this dedicated
Ayurveda panchakarma retreat is traditional Ayurveda with an
added touch of healing Balinese ritual. The programmes are
meticulously curated and closely monitored by Dr Aparna
and her team of experts, and include seven-, 14- and 28-day
panchakarma rituals tailored to detox, stress relief and those
suffering chronic insomnia. Days are filled with sunrise and
sunset yoga, meditation, dosha-specific meals, hands-on
massage therapies, deep detoxification techniques, herbal
medicines and juices, cleansing baths, walks and moments
of complete silence, all key elements on the pathway to
presence. Balinese cultural experiences are also available
including an indigenous fire cleansing ceremony and the
chance to bathe in the holy Hindu temple waters.
www.oneworldayurveda.com
5
Santani, Sri Lanka
A relative newcomer to Sri Lanka, this 48-acre former tea plantation outside Narampanawa,
northeast of Kandy is fast gaining a reputation for authentic Ayurvedic healing. The brainchild
of a group of repatriated young Sri Lankans with a passion for preserving ecology and the
country’s indigenous culture, Santani’s mission is a life lived to its fullest. The bespoke
therapy programmes and cuisine are curated by the resident Ayurvedic doctors, chefs and
nutritionists, with emphasis firmly on re-energising and rebalancing both body and mind.
Reclaimed timber features throughout the property from the open-air pavilions for sleeping
and the yoga, meditation and healing spaces. When not enjoying the vast menu of massages
or other hands-on therapies, guests can roam the fertile rice fields, trek through the jungle
or swim in the Hulu River.
www.santani.lk

6
Essential Ayurveda, England
Tucked away in a relaxed 400-year-old farmhouse in the
heart of the Lincolnshire countryside, expert Ayurvedic
practitioners Andy and Laura Shakeshaft offer bespoke
retreats (with a maximum of three guests) lasting three, five
or seven days. The ethos is client centred and focused on
a structured physical detox with food (mostly organic and
local), herbs, daily massages, steam therapy, yoga, creative
counselling and meditation designed to empower guests.
Here peace and personalised attention are guaranteed, as
is the opportunity to enrich body and mind.
www.essentialayurveda.co.uk
7
Soukya, India
Soukya’s expansive soul-nurturing gardens
provide the ingredients for the colourful
vegetarian cuisine and therapeutic
oils. Founded by renowned holistic
practitioner Dr Issac Mathai, the backbone
of Soukya is a healing combination of
Ayurveda, naturopathy, yoga and intensive
panchakarma. The cultural fusion of skilled
doctors, naturopaths, dietitians and massage
therapists invites a life-changing opportunity
for guests, with daily yoga and meditation
coupled with targeted treatments and
home-brewed remedies created from the
expansive organic gardens. Guests come
to Soukya to address often serious health
issues from depression and chronic illness
to migraines, diabetes, weight loss, fatigue
or to simply have some time for the mind
to still under the expert guidance of the
skilled practitioners. The rooms and cottages
all feature private gardens with open-air
showers and the dosha-specific meals are
generally taken in silence.
www.soukya.com

Top10
8
Sonnhof Resort, Austria
India meets the Tyrolean Mountains at the 30-room
9
family-run Resort Sonnhof in Thiersee where an honest
taste of European Ayurveda is available while breathing
Ayurveda Parkschlösschen,
the freshest alpine air. This East-meets-West concept
Germany
runs throughout the infrastructure of the retreat with Located in an 11-acre parkland surrounded by vineyards
OM meditation rooms, Shakti fireplaces, Ayurveda- and the gently flowing Mosel River, the Ayurveda
themed lounges, saunas, moon pool and heat therapy. Parkschlösschen is synonymous with Ayurveda detox
As nutrition is the cornerstone of every good Ayurvedic in Europe. From its interior created in accordance with
experience, the dosha-specific vegetarian cuisine uses Vastu (the traditional Hindu approach to architecture with
the finest ingredients sourced from local farms and emphasis on sustainability and the natural world), to soul-
markets. The inclusive menu of programmes ranges nurturing vegetarian food, yoga, meditation and a menu
from the shorter duration Ayurveda Taster to the full-on of medically curated Ayurvedic massages, all are designed
Panchakarma lasting up to 21 days. With twice-daily to cleanse and regenerate from within. The three-day Take
yoga sessions and a menu of Ayurvedic massage A Break programme offers the perfect introduction to
treatments, Sonnhof is the place to re-energise and Ayurveda, while longer programmes like the comprehensive
rebalance the body’s vital energies. 21-day panchakarma detox are also available.
www.sonnhof-ayurveda.at www.ayurveda-parkschloesschen.de

10
Shreyas Retreat, India
There is more to Shreyas than Ayurveda, as this spiritual destination retreat nestled in
lush gardens one hour north-west of Bangalore is renowned for its soul nurturing silent
retreats bringing some much-needed stillness to busy minds. However, if Ayurveda is on
the agenda then you are in the right place too with a team of skilled experts on hand and a
comprehensive menu of Ayurvedic programmes and therapies to cleanse and reboot both
body and mind. Only 25 guests can be accommodated in cossetting canopied cottages
with yoga pavilions and meditation huts and fragrant frangipani trees dotting the verdant
25-acre retreat. Days can be spent in meditative stillness or enjoying various yoga classes,
the freshest organically grown vegetarian cuisine, the guidance of highly trained Ayurvedic
practitioners and private arati offerings at the village temple. www.shreyasretreat.com

TravelDestination

ON THE
RIGHT TRACK
The romance of train travel maintains its timeless lure
Writer Kate Whitehead

TravelDestination
L
ong-haul train travel is back in luxurious accommodation and an adventure the Royal Scotsman, one of the finest luxury
vogue and there are now more you are unlikely to forget. trains. Beautifully appointed and with no
luxury operators than ever offering to shortage of tartan touches, the train has been
pamper you as you trundle through remote SCOTLAND / BELMOND called a country house on wheels.
landscapes. Away from the hurly-burly of The four-day journey begins at
airports, trains provide a chance to truly
ROYAL SCOTSMAN / THE Edinburgh’s Waverley Station with a
relax and enjoy the journey. Instead of WESTERN JOURNEY handsome kilted bagpipe player leading
focusing on the destination, attention shifts Expansive landscapes, vast mountains, a the way to the burgundy train. With just 40
to savouring the moment. latticework of lochs and pristine beaches passengers in 22 cabins it is certain to be
Here are four fantastic train trips – each – the remote west of Scotland is achingly an intimate experience. Guests are greeted
in a different country and offering a unique beautiful. And there can be no better way with a flute of champagne, the first hint of
cultural experience, but all committed to to explore this corner of the world than on the indulgences to come.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Guests going on The Western Journey with Belmond Royal Scotsman are welcomed
by a kilted bagpipe player; Belmond’s Bamford Haybarn Spa offers massages, facials and manicures on
board; drink in the view of Loch Lomond from the observation car
the men wear kilts, many for the first time. of Skye. Back on board after a sumptuous
Dressing for dinner adds to the decadent lunch, a local highlander shares stories
atmosphere and once everyone is well fed about Scottish heroes as the train travels on
and watered, a nightcap in the Observation to Fort William for tea in the drawing room at
Car with local musicians becomes a lively Inverlochy Castle Hotel, or for the energetic,
As guests settle into their cabins the train affair. When it’s time to retire, guests find their a two-hour walk through Nevis Gorge.
travels west, skirting Glasgow, and afternoon wood-paneled cabin has been transformed If the walk has tired you, the Royal
tea is served as it makes its way along the into a bedroom, a thoughtful hot water bottle Scotsman offers something no other luxury
edge of Gare Loch. In the far distance is tucked under the covers. The train docks each train does – an on-board spa carriage with
the magnificent 884m Ben Arthur. The night so good sleep is assured. a therapist offering massages as well as
observation car is fitted with comfortable As enjoyable as it is to stay cocooned in facials and manicures. It is hard to top a
bucket chairs and sofas offering an ideal the pampered luxury of the train, there are deep-tissue massage while listening to the
vantage point to drink in a view of Loch adventures to be had. One of the highlights gentle rumble of the train as it travels south
Lomond, Britain’s largest lake, and then the of the trip is savouring the dramatic coastal to the Bridge of Orchy.
wild, boggy beauty Rannoch Moor. stretch to Arisaig and then getting out to The last full day on the train is full of
Passengers are encouraged to dress stretch your legs on Morar Sands, a white activities, beginning with a 35-minute ferry
formally for some meals and a number of sandy beach with views across to the Isle ride to the Isle of Bute to see the spectacular

TravelDestination
Victorian Gothic manor house, Mount
Stuart. The fantasy of the third Marquees of
Bute, it was built in the 1870s and houses an
extensive art collection and library – just last
year they discovered a 1623 first edition of
Shakespeare’s collected plays in the library.
After exploring the Gothic house, the
train rolls on to Kilmarnock for a formal
dinner followed by traditional Scottish
music, a fitting end to an exciting day. The
train begins moving the following morning
while many passengers are still asleep, rolling
eastwards to Edinburgh. After a leisurely
breakfast it’s sadly time to depart – and start
planning the next Scottish adventure. The
train travels all over Britain, up to Inverness
in the north and as far south as London.
www.belmond.com

JAPAN / SEVEN STARS days, one night) and both include plenty of
outings. The longer route travels through the
AUSTRALIA / GREAT
/ KYUSHU five prefectures of Fukuoka, Oita, Miyazaki, SOUTHERN RAIL / THE
Japan is known for its bullet trains which Kagoshima and Kumamoto and includes a INDIAN PACIFIC
travel at speeds of up to 320 km an hour, so it night in a traditional Japanese inn, a ryokan. Surrounded by water, Australia is sometimes
may come as a surprise to learn that the boss It’s in a hot spring resort and the individual referred to as an ‘island continent’. The
of the company brought the Shinkansen cottages have tatami mat floors, futons and Indian Ocean laps against its west coast and
bullet train to Kyushu who commissioned private onsens. the Pacific Ocean against the east coast. To
the country’s first luxury sleeper train. Koji The train is boutique – there are just 12 get a sense of the vastness of the country,
Karaike apparently wanted a train that en-suite rooms and two luxury suites. The travel from Perth in the west to Sydney on
would go slow, taking its time to showcase interiors draw on the classic, nostalgia of the the east coast, a 4,352km journey aboard the
the beauty of the most southerly of Japan’s belle époque Pullman carriages of Europe – Great Southern Rail. The journey includes
four main islands – a dream that was realised think brass fittings and vintage lights – with the longest stretch of straight line in the
in October 2013. exquisite Japanese touches. The walls are world, 478km across the Nullarbor Plain.
Kyushu is a tropical island, a land of made of rosewood and maple and the floors The three-night, four-day Indian Pacific
volcanoes and extremely photogenic. from walnut. Shoji paper screens cover the route runs all year round, leaving Sydney
The portrait windows of a train carriage windows and the sliding glass doors. As on a Wednesday afternoon and arriving in
beautifully frame the lush rice paddies and comfortable as the guest rooms are, it’s the Perth at Saturday lunchtime. In an effort to
verdant landscape. The train offers two carriage at the end of the train where you get entice a younger crowd, the train has been
routes around Kyushu – a long one (four the best view from a large picture window. spruced up in the last few years, and a new
days, three nights) and a short one (two A good time to visit is in autumn when food and wine menu aims to showcase the
the maple leaves turn red in a spectacular best that Australia has to offer.
display that is known as momiji. Incidentally, The journey drives home the vastness of
the name Seven Stars doesn’t refer to the the country and for much of the way there
level of service, but to the seven prefectures, is little life outside the window beyond the
or provinces, that make up Kyushu. odd sheep. It’s a chance for self-reflection as
www.cruisetrain-sevenstars.com you watch the desert landscapes change to
CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Hop on board the Great Southern Rail and take in the vastness of the country; from desert landscapes to fertile
plains, a journey on-board the Great Southern Rail provides opportunities for reflection; the interiors of Seven Stars draw on the nostagia of the
belle époque Pullman carriages of Europe

TravelDestination
fertile plains. Along the way, look out for the

Wedge-tailed eagle, the largest bird of prey
in Australia with a wingspan of two metres.
The first of several stops is Broken Hill
on the first morning, an area teeming with
kangaroos and deadly snakes. The town was
built in the heady days of the country’s coal
mining boom and the Miners Memorial not
far from the train station is a reminder of the
people who lost their lives in the name of
energy. For wine lovers, the excursion to a
Barossa Valley vineyard will be a highlight.
There’s also a stop at a pheasant farm and at
Cook, a railway town that has a population
of just four today. There are also on-board
masterclasses in wine and local cuisine, so
the chances of getting bored are quite slim.
www.greatsouthernrail.com.au
BEIJING – MOSCOW /
GOLDEN EAGLE LUXURY
TRAINS / SILK ROAD
Centuries ago merchants travelled to and
from China on ancient trade routes through

OPPOSITE PAGE: Enjoy the Great Wall. From there it is to Xian to chance to see the famous gas crater known
beautiful scenery on the
Seven Stars; take part in
see the terracotta warriors and then on as the ‘Door to Hell’ in Turkmenistan’s
wine masterclasses on to Dunhuang for a stop at an oasis in the Karakum Desert and then onto the ancient
board the Great Southern Gobi Desert. Enjoy the dramatic mountain city of Khiva in Uzbekistan and through
Rail. THIS PAGE: Indulge
in a scrumptious meal or scenery as you cross the border into Kazakhstan. The train reaches Moscow on
a cocktail at the Golden Kazakhstan and spend a day exploring the the 19th day and it’s a chance to switch from
Eagle’s restaurant and bar
old city. The train travels slowly through sleeping in a carriage to the luxurious Ritz-
Uzbekistan, stopping to see mosques and Carlton to take in the city’s sights.
the magnificent Registan Square. There’s the www.goldeneagleluxurytrains.com
some of the world’s most challenging

landscapes. They traded silk, spices and
perfumes and these trade routes, stretching
6,400km, became known as the Silk Road.
Adventurers such as Alexander the Great
and Marco Polo also plied the Silk Road and
now you can follow in their footsteps, but
in a lot more comfort and style.
The Golden Eagle is Russia’s only fully
en-suite private train. It is well known for
the iconic Trans-Siberian route as well
as the epic 21-day Silk Road journey
through Central Asia. You can choose to
go westwards, beginning in Beijing and
ending in Moscow, or eastwards beginning
in Moscow. Three weeks on a train is a
long time, so you’ll be pleased to know the
accommodation is luxurious albeit small.
The Silver Class cabins are 60sqft and the
Gold Class are 77sqft, both with private
bathrooms, toilet and shower, and lower
double bed and an upper single bed.
The eastwards journey begins in Beijing,
taking in some of the key sights such as
Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and

TravelDestination
DESTINATION
WELLNESS
Luxury cruising is becoming evermore popular, but the industry is
also catering to those who want a luxurious health retreat at sea
Writer Rob McGovern

TravelDestination
T
here is seemingly no limit to what With all ocean-view suites and plenty
money can buy when it comes to of deck space to watch the passing scenery
luxury; if you want it, someone – whether that be the Pink Beaches of
can put a price tag on it. But indulgent Komodo Island or the Mekong Delta – Silver
lifestyles often come with another price Discoverer’s shallow draft means she can get
tag – your health. Thankfully the cruising close to shore, but the fleet of 12 Zodiacs
industry specialises in bringing wellness allows guests to get even closer by arriving
and extravagance together with plenty of at secluded beaches and exploring reefs. The
options with a conscience. expedition voyages aim to bring traditional
adventure together with a holistic approach
SILVER DISCOVERER to rest and rejuvenation.
A relatively old hand when it comes to Refurbished in 2016, Silver Discoverer
luxury cruises, Silversea Cruises are among was specifically designed with well-being
the best known. Among their smorgasbord in mind, with a beauty salon, treatment
of cruise options are the wellness expedition room and gym with personalised sessions
voyages aboard Silver Discoverer. available. There is also a pool (and aquagym
Unlike traditional cruise ships that can classes) as well as a complete programme of
literally host thousands of passengers, Silver yoga and stretching classes, spa treatments
Discoverer hosts just 120 guests, and with (one complimentary treatment per person
96 crew, the ship has an enviable ratio of is included in the voyage fee) and daily
crew to guests. menus designed to be both healthy and

delicious. If you have questions, a health
and fitness expert and nutrition consultant
are available.
Healthy eating is encouraged at on-
board restaurant The Grill thanks to lava
stone cooking. Volcanic rocks are heated
to 400˚C before being placed at your table
for you to grill a selection of fish, meat
and vegetables. The Restaurant serves
contemporary, international cuisine in a
warm and elegant ambiance for something
slightly more formal.
For when you do want to temper your
healthy lifestyle with a bit of luxury, Silversea
has you covered with butler service and
champagne on request available in all suites.
Silver Discoverer voyages cruise the
waters around Africa, the Indian Ocean,
around Asia, Australia and New Zealand
and the Islands of the South Pacific. Hong
Kong serves as the destination for one cruise
from Ho Chi Minh City and the embarkation
point for another ending in Nagasaki. Both
cruises featuring Hong Kong are in March
2018.
www.silversea.com
PREVIOUS PAGE AND TOP LEFT: Explore Halong

Bay on board Paradise Elegance. RIGHT: Join a
wellness expedition voyage aboard Silver Discoverer,
designed to combine traditional adventure with
a holistic approach. BOTTOM: Guests on board
Silver Discoverer are treated to a complimentary
spa treatment
THE GOLDEN DHOW FROM SIX a chance to break up their stay with a few
SENSES days on the water. Being a guest at the resort,
Developed by Six Senses Zighy Bay however, isn’t necessary.
Resort, a luxury property on the northern The ship may look like an anachronism,
Musandam Peninsula in the Sultanate of but the inside is as modern as can be
Oman, the luxuriously appointed and with all the mod cons you will find at any
handcrafted Dahab was inspired by a classic Six Senses resort, which is where Dahab
Omani dhow. Meaning ‘golden’ in Arabic, begins its three-day, two-night voyage
these boats take the humble vessels to exploring the Musandam coast, where
stratospheric new levels. the Hajar Mountains tower over quaint
Cruising the rugged Musandam fjords fishing villages. Dahab stops several times
at a relaxing 10 knots, the private cruiser in secluded bays bursting with marine life
mirrors the relaxed style of its parent resort. where guests can kayak, fish, swim or just
Able to accommodate just six people in relax. Back on board, cooking classes are
three well-appointed cabins (one king and available too.
two twins), Dahab offers guests at the resort Aside from physical exertion, wellness

TravelDestination
can be found elsewhere aboard Dahab

including by requesting a spa therapist be
brought on board for a range of treatments.
Guests can also take advantage of the
Integrated Wellness programme which
includes an analysis of key physiological
biomarkers to provide guests with lifestyle
and nutritional advice; a personalised
programme of spa treatments, fitness, and
wellness activities is created based on the
results.
For those with dietary restrictions, or
indeed those who are trying to start a new
healthier eating regime, the chef is more
than happy to accommodate.
www.sixsenses.com

Highlights of the journey include There is a horizon-level pool on the
exploring the Bagan Heritage Trail which sundeck to cool off in the humid Burmese
takes passengers to the beautiful Sulamani summers, or work up a sweat in the fully
and Gubyaukgyi temples, Myanmar cultural equipped gym. If you are pushing the
shows, and delicious and unique Burmese boat out and decide to book one of the
cuisine. two Strand Suites, added extras include
Life aboard the Strand Cruise is nothing a 60-minute spa treatment, a night at The
if not relaxing. The beautiful rooms take Strand Yangon pre or post cruise and private
inspiration from the life and landscape of airport transfers.
THIS PAGE: Voyages on the Strand Cruise begin
the Ayeyarwady River while floor-to-ceiling There are also options that will likely
in mesmerising Bagan; cool off in the horizon- windows, green tones, warm teak wood and appeal to younger cruisers such as morning
level pool on the Strand Cruise. OPPOSITE PAGE: traditional gold leaf bring the outside in, but yoga on the sundeck and exploring Bagan
Six Senses Zighy Bay’s Dahab cruises around
the Musandam coast, providing guests with to truly relax, a visit to the on-board spa is a by e-bike. Also, be sure to enjoy one of
opportunities for adventure must. A single and a couple’s therapy rooms the country’s magnificent sunsets from the
offer views of the passing riverbank, with sundeck with a Strand signature cocktail
Asian-influenced treatments incorporating in hand.
STRAND CRUISE green tea and jasmine. www.thestrandcruise.com
The floating sister property of the iconic
Strand Hotel in the Burmese capital Yangon,
the Strand Cruise takes luxury and cultural
experience and brings them together in
perhaps Asia’s most undiscovered country.
The Strand Cruise operates three- and
four-night itineraries between Bagan and
Mandalay on the Ayeyarwady River.
All journeys aboard the cruise begin
with breakfast in the beautiful surroundings
of the oldest lacquerware house in Bagan,
the Burmese city famed for its stunning
pagodas that date back to the 11th century.
This is followed with visits to Shwezigon
Pagoda and Ananda Temple which serve as
mere hors d’oeuvres for what is to come.
After check-in, lunch is served on the boat’s
sundeck and the journey truly begins.

TravelDestination
PARADISE ELEGANCE
Paradise Vietnam is one of the country’s
leading providers of luxury hospitality,
and in 2017, the company launched the
second of two Paradise Elegance ships
in the country’s famed tourism attraction
Halong Bay.
Launched with the goal of redefining
luxury cruising, the Elegance vessels
c o m b i n e c o n t e m p o ra r y s t y l e w i t h
Vietnamese tradition. At 61m long and 13m
wide, they are the largest overnight cruising
vessels in the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Both Paradise Elegance vessels have
just 31 cabins ranging from 25–35sqm
and include private balconies, walk-in
closets, rain showers and floor-to-ceiling
glass doors.
In addition to the glamorous dining
room, there is a piano bar, the Paradise Spa,
as well as the L’Odyssee Sundeck which Wellness aboard Paradise Elegance is learn Vietnamese tai chi after a short hike
can accommodate up to 90 people and understated and subtly weaved into the on a local island.
has a circular bar that sits under a large fabric of the vessel with a four-room spa Wellness options continue in Le Marin
shade sail. offering treatments from the company’s Restaurant where there a broad range of
The vessels continuously cruise the Bay new propriety spa brand – Le Parfum. Using healthy dishes centred from the à la carte
which means in a 24-hour period guests can products from Parisian brand Sothys, the menu. As with any luxury cruise, the kitchen
see more of the natural wonders than most new menu features the Hot Stone Massage can and will tailor any meal to your personal
other cruise offerings. Visits to caves, islands that can soothe aching muscles from a day tastes and preferences whether you dine in
and fishing villages are made possible by kayaking, or the Balinese massage that will the dining room, on the sundeck or on your
tenders that zip between Paradise Elegance relieve you of any lingering stress from real private balcony, and at any time. Paradise
and on-shore attractions, most of which take life. There is also a range of facials, scrubs Elegance offers two-day, one-night and
place during off-peak hours to ensure that and wraps that can relax, rejuvenate and three-day, two-night itineraries.
guests aren’t marooned in a sea of tourists. regenerate. Guests can kayak in the Bay or www.paradisecruise.com

also be yoga that aims to enhance creativity,
mental focus and happiness.
Another key component of the
programme will be the complimentary
mind and body seminars. Presentations will
empower guests with ideas and practices
that enhance well-being and increase the
awareness of connection between mind,
body, environment and wellness. Seminars
are created by Dr Weil and Steiner’s
Wellness professionals, many of which will
be based upon Dr Weil’s teachings, and will
THIS PAGE: The Spa at Seabourn offers everything explore the fields of the healing arts.
from manicures and pedicures to facials and
massages; retreat to The Spa at Seabourn for On-board seminars include Spontaneous
relaxation and tranquillity. OPPOSITE PAGE: Happiness & Spontaneous Healing; Anti-
Paradise Elegance combines contemporary style with
Vietnamese tradition; healthy dishes are served at the
inflammatory foods; and Introduction to
restaurant aboard Paradise Elegance Mindful Meditation. On at least one cruise
a year, Dr Weil will himself be on board to
SEABOURN year), the new programme is a collaboration deliver a lecture and host informal group
Seabourn Cruises are known for their between Dr Weil and the professionals discussions.
luxurious nature, and while many choose at Steiner who operate the Seabourn’s As with other cruises of this nature, there
the company for its well-appointed suites Onboard Spas. is gourmet dining and fine wine, exciting
and award-winning dining, the company A core component of the programme excursions, and The Spa at Seabourn that
recently decided to take its wellness is the daily practice of meditation and offers everything from manicures and
programme to the next level by partnering yoga through a selection of complimentary pedicures to facials and massages.
with Dr Andrew Weil to launch a first-of- sessions. Mindful Meditation will introduce Seabourn offer cruises from Antartica
its-kind programme across their entire fleet. positive affirmations and mantras, while to Africa and seemingly everywhere in
Currently available on three of daily yoga classes will be varied so guests between. There are several cruises that
Seabourn’s four vessels (it will be available can choose the areas they would like to depart from Hong Kong, including the
on the final vessel by 2018 and the new focus on, such as back and joint pain, mammoth 56-day Empires of the East.
Seabourn Ovation when she launches next headaches and body alignment. There will www.seabourn.com

SpaGetaway

Oman Obsession
Explore the land of frankincense and rosewater
Writer Judy Chapman

SpaGetaway

PREVIOUS PAGE: The Chedi Muscat has an Arabian vibe with its romantic archways.
OPPOSITE PAGE: Getting pampered on the beach at Shangri-La Husn Resort & Spa.
THIS PAGE: Chi,The Spa features regional experiences and ingredients
W
ith endless coastlines, rugged may witness the burning of frankincense menu also features regional experiences
mountains and epic deserts, for purification. Inside homes, Omanis such as Journey of Arabia ritual that includes
sacred mosques and souks, smoke bakhoor to fragrance their clothes sacred time in the hammam.
Oman offers the most diverse landscape and hair. Outside, the men layer their The resort with its incredible clifftop
in the Middle East. It is also the region’s dishdashas in scents of oud (or agarwood) location overlooking the Gulf of Oman is
fastest growing country in terms of tourism, and frankincense while the women adorn the largest in Muscat with more than 640
and ranked as one of the safest countries their elegant abayas with jewels and hotel rooms designed to reflect the nation’s
in the world. But it’s their rich spa culture perfume oils. Secret bakhoor recipes are rich cultural heritage. There are stunning
that makes Oman a pamper-seekers dream passed down through the generations, and beaches and pools to cool off in during the
destination. no two recipes are ever the same. summer, and endless eateries to dine in.
Omani culture is well known for Little wonder the treatments on the Their upgraded spa and wellness facilities
indigenous scent rituals that have captivated menu at Oman’s finest spas feature these launched this October.
the hearts of many. Take bakhoor, Arabic for exotic fragrances. www.shangri-la.com
‘vapour’, for example. Believed to originate
from nomadic tribes who burnt agarwood CHI, THE SPA AT SHANGRI-LA AL AYANA SPA
with grounded resins, powdered flowers HUSN RESORT & SPA Middle Eastern women visit this popular
and herbs to mask the scent of cooking, As Oman produces the highest quality spa for their beauty services. Founded by
today the aroma of bakhoor can be found frankincense in the world, it makes sense an esthetician, it offers world-class beauty
everywhere. that spa offerings incorporate the wild facials including LED Light Therapy and
When entering a home, spa or even ingredient once worth more than gold. Microdermabrasion. However, the menu
a shopping mall, the exotic scent of rose, This luxury seaside spa in the capital city of of local experiences such as Moroccan
sandalwood and juniper is usually in the Muscat offers a Sense of Place menu with cleansing and hammam rituals are favoured
air. As you pass doorways of the souk, you divine Frankincense and Rose Wraps. The among locals and expats.

SpaGetaway

Journey through a menu of Omani
Purify Ritual, The Frankincense Polish
and The Ayana Olive Oil Ritual – all
comprising frankincense, myrrh, rose and
other heavenly local ingredients. Most
popular is The Amber Ritual that consists of
scrubs, oils and massage balms scented with
amber resin and concludes with an offering
of amber tonic water. This is Muscat’s only
upmarket independent spa and is a favourite
for bridal and birthday groups.
www.ayanaspa.com
THE SPA AT THE CHEDI MUSCAT

Omanis take a great deal of care with
their appearance, and the well-heeled
head to this expansive 800sqm spa for
weekly manicures and facials. Many have
a preference for organic offerings and this
spa caters to this with its sublime Ila spa
treatments, as well as massages using pure romantic archways and tranquil pools, a hammams, some private and others for
frankincense oil. This city’s largest and most stunning homage to contemporary Omani groups. As is the tradition in the Middle
upscale spa situated in the sea-facing Chedi architecture. The resort is known for The East, spas usually offer separate men and
Muscat’s 21 acres boasts 13 dimly lit teak Restaurant, undoubtedly Muscat’s finest women areas but this luxury seaside spa
wood treatment rooms. destination dining experience. goes a step further by offering Muscat’s only
Downstairs, the gym is designed with www.ghmhotels.com private ladies beach.
private workout spaces for men and women The spa retail space showcases some
and holds daily yoga and Pilates classes. SIX SENSES SPA AT AL BUSTAN of the world’s best brands including Subtle
Design-wise, the hotel feels Arabian with PALACE Energies and Margy’s Monte Carlo. Guests
Get a sense of traditional Omani life as you seeking deeper relaxation can book a
weave through endless arched walkways, signature Yogic-Sleep programme and
domed ceilings and spouting falaj (water measure their body’s stress parameters,
channels) at this incredible spa. Housed hydration, oxygen uptake, metabolism and
over three levels, the spa is designed like inflammation with a Wellness Screening.
an ancient Omani fort and features several www.sixsenses.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Ayana Spa is known for its

world-class beauty services; Six Senses Spa at Al Bustan
Palace offers a range of wellness experiences; enjoy daily yoga
at The Chedi Muscat’s spa; The Chedi Muscat pays homage
to contemporary Omani architecture

SpaGetaway
from locally grown rose and pomegranate,
some of which are performed on a heated
white marble table.
Explore Rose Rescue Ritual, Green
Mountain Escape and Arabian rituals or
be cleansed in Oman’s first Himalayan
Salt steam room. Wellness-seekers can
book three-day retreats enhanced with
their signature Balance Wellness Menu
featuring unlimited juices. Nearby are
wadis, waterfalls and villages, and come
March, the beautifully scented Damask rose
is in full bloom.
www.jabal-akhdar.anantara.com
SPA ALILA AT ALILA JABAL AKHDAR Arabian cuisine at the Juniper Restaurant.
Weather-wise, Oman has one of the hottest Outside the resort, soak in local life as you
climates in the world, and come summer explore nearby villages, sunrise treks and
many escape to the Al Akhdar, or Green hikes and visit rose terraces and rosewater
Mountain region for respite. This Alila distillers – divine!
property is probably Oman’s most upscale www.alilahotels.com
boutique resort, its luxurious rooms and
suites all with views of the mystical desert. ANANTARA AL JABAL AL AKHDAR
Spa Alila is a sanctuary of seven treatment Also situated in the cool mountain region,
rooms and offers a menu of Asian therapies this resort offers one-, two- and three-
such as the Balinese Massage and Herbal bedroom pool villas that work well for friends
Compress. But their treatments and rituals and families travelling together. Designed by
created from locally grown juniper berry, a French-Moroccan architect, the dreamy
frankincense and rosewater sound most resort features 82 guest rooms and 33 villas
appealing. with signature Omani touches throughout
Yoga can be enjoyed overlooking the including intricate tiles, decorative lighting
canyon, and another highlight is their and falaj water features. At the heart of the
frankincense and juniper-infused steam spa is the majestic hammam, a building
room. In the evenings, enjoy refreshing within a building. Inside this incredible
tonics at their Rose Lounge followed by space you receive cleansing scrubs made

SIX SENSES SPA ZIGHY BAY AT SIX
SENSES ZIGHY BAY RESORT
There are several ways to reach Oman’s
most prestigious wellness resort, including
paragliding in from the rugged cliffs above.
Set on a secluded bay surrounded by
magical desert mountains, there’s no place
like it in the world. Pool villas are fitted
with rustic materials and textures, designed
to resemble native Omani life. In usual Six
Senses fashion, your villa comes with your
own bikes. Feast on local dishes made from OPPOSITE PAGE: Spa Alila at Alila Jabal Akhdar
fresh produce handpicked from organic overlooks breathtaking canyon views; Damask rose
gardens. at Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar is in full bloom in
March; Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar’s spa features a
modern design with Omani touches. THIS PAGE: Six
Senses Zighy Bay Resort is set on a secluded bay, and
its hammam rituals are must-tries; stunning pool at
Anantara Al Baleed Resort Salalah
The hideaway offers all the elements of coconut and frankincense such as The
a wellness stay including nutritious food, Frankincense Ritual, Coconut Indulgence
daily yoga, meditation, adventure and or the regionally inspired Arabian Massage.
fitness. Spa-wise, local rituals are infused In terms of wellness, retreat programmes
with Omani aromatherapy. Try hammam are enhanced with yoga, meditation and
rituals and The Wonders of Oman performed healthy cuisine.
with locally grown dates, honey and crushed www.salalah.anantara.com
almonds. For guests seeking a longer healthy
holiday, book in for Six Senses signature What else? Visit the Amouge Perfumery
Yogic Detox and Yogic Sleep retreats. in Muscat to learn more about Oman’s
www.sixsenses.com indigenous apothecary and see luxury
fragrances being bottled. Other memorable
ANANTARA SPA AT ANANTARA AL Omani rituals include the offerings of fresh
BALEED RESORT SALALAH dates and date coffee in the afternoon.
Located in the Dhofar region, this popular There’s the call of prayer resonating five
summer destination is famous for producing times a day, and if you are fortunate to
the highest quality Frankincense oil in the visit during Ramadan, the holy month of
world. Anantara spa is an oasis situated fasting, cleansing and self-reflection, you
between a beach and freshwater lagoon. will experience first-hand the beauty and
Enjoy spa experiences using locally grown colour of this important festival.

TheGreatEscape
On the
Eastern Edge
Make a stay at Tanjong Jara Resort your own

TheGreatEscape
I
f you’ve had it with crowds and seek
resident naturalist and longest standing
respite from tourist spots, the east coast
member of staff, Captain Mok, famed for
of Malaysia has pristine sand, shady
colourful stories and his knowledge of
palms and azure water without the usual
native surrounds. He also takes the morning
hordes. An introvert’s dream, the four-hour
sucimurni stretching exercise based on the
drive from Kuala Lumpur means it’s the
seven animal chakras, to begin the day on
option for those seriously after a sliver of
a wellness high note.
solitude, but it’s a picturesque enough route
There’s no shortage of big personalities
and much of the time you feel as if you have
at the resort. Breakfast and local speciality
the place to yourself.
eatery Di Atas Sungei has become known
LOCAL SLANT as the ‘Talking Chef Restaurant’ due to its

gregarious protagonist. Chef Ann does her
Evidenced not only by its 17th-century rounds, stopping at each table to ask guests
design inspired by a Malay palace, there’s personally what they’re in the mood for
an endearing focus on heritage here, which and customising dishes accordingly – most
filters right the way through from authentic never even pick up a menu. The concept
fare to the activities on offer. Morning yoga takes inspiration from that of a Malay home,
classes are distinctly Malaysian, indera where meals are prepared based on visitors’
deria, so no downward dogs, influenced preferences.
rather by regional animals, including eagles Food is an important part of local culture
and turtles; it’s an interesting mishmash and guests can take part in classes like
of yoga, tai chi and meditation. Led by Secrets of Malay Kitchen, which is among

the most popular. Some are complimentary,
P R E V I O U S PAG E :
Pristine beach at the and are a great opportunity to chat with
resort. THIS PAGE: The other guests. The Wednesday traditional
resort’s 17th-century
handicraft session involved a group of
design focuses on
heritage, inspired by a us sitting cross-legged in a circle making
Malay palace ketupat, a diamond-shaped pouch of palm
leaves. Though commonly used during
festive occasions or as a container for
cooking rice, for our purposes they were
combined with fresh flowers as part of
a bouquet. The intricate work called for
instantly built camaraderie between the
less nimble fingered members of the group.
FURTHER AFIELD
Excursions are another way to get to
know other guests. The highlight of the
stay, hands down, was the snorkelling
(and diving for some) in Tenggol Island, a
seriously underrated spot for marine life
as most tend to opt for the better known
Perhentian Islands, a 45-minute speedboat
ride from the Dungan jetty. The coral, fish

TheGreatEscape
and visibility were the best I have seen

in Asia, rivaling even that of the flawless
Maldivian waters. The morning begins at
Sunset Point, where the reef can be accessed
by the beach, so you can retreat to shore and
read in a hammock or have a go on the tree
swings, where forgetting responsibilities is
surprisingly easy.
After snorkellers and divers regroup for
lunch on the beach, together we head for
Turtle Point, where ogling cartoony coral
and swimming with a school of bulbous
humphead wrasse is a treat. The divers
were lucky enough to see whale sharks on
a recent dive, confirming the site as one of
Malaysia’s best-kept (not anymore) secrets
for thriving marine life. The crew kept us
entertained with playful antics and it was a
fantastic day on the water.
For a different wildlife encounter, Kenyir
Elephant Village, located by Temelong River,
is a sanctuary dedicated to improving the
human-wildlife conflict and increasing
awareness by giving rescued and orphan
elephants and home, which of which 90
per cent of the 256 hectares are untouched
in an attempt to preserve their natural
habitat. Breathtaking landscapes around the
resort also include the 300m Chemerung
Waterfall, where you can hike its craggy
mountainside and take a dip in crystal
clear water.

If sloth-like is more your pace, you
technically needn’t set foot off grounds to
experience nature as a taste of the jungle is
minutes away. The Jara Hill Walk & Malay
Herbal Garden Visit takes you up a path
into a lush tangle where frankly there isn’t
a great deal to see, except for a wooden
deck with views of the ocean, though
mostly obstructed by the overgrowth.
Douse yourself in repellent, as mozzies are
relentless. If plants and herbs don’t interest
you, perhaps give it a miss, though may be
worth going just to hear Captain Mok’s story
on surviving a king cobra bite and advice
on how to repel leeches when trekking
(if you’re wondering, soak your socks in
seawater and let them hang out to dry; the
salt repels them).
LICENSE TO CHILL
Considering the schlep to Terengganu, you
are probably content to spend the majority
of the time prone, sipping on coconuts and
doing little else, with no judgement on our
part. The most obvious resort indulgence
aside from its idyllic setting is dining.
A picnic on the beach is decadent, so FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:
Pamper yourself with a
come hungry as the portions are no joke signature treatment at
– mammoth-sized pasta, sandwich, fruit Spa Village Tanjong Jara;
and cheese plate. Nelayan is the favourite romantic dining by the
pool; spend time prone,
for a romantic dinner à deux. Try the cod sipping on coconuts and
with lobster sauce and flourless chocolate doing little else
cake. Another lovely place for sundowners

or steamboat (hotpot, if you’re from Hong
Kong) is shady Teretai Terrace where there’s
nothing separating you from the jungle.
Since you’re spoiling yourself, you may
as well do it properly with the signature
Asam Roselle treatment at Spa Village
Tanjong Jara, where the incredible massage,
scrub and tea served at the end are each
inspired by the dark red hibiscus flower.
Introduced into Malaysia from India, it’s
used in traditional medicine and local
cuisine, believed to lower blood sugar
levels, ability to create collagen naturally
and for its anti-inflammatory properties.
The combination of long kneading strokes
and exfoliation with rice and coconut oil
will ensure you leave feeling, smelling and
looking as you should post-getaway.
www.tanjongjararesort.com

24HoursIn
Hamilton Island
Nourish the soul in paradise Writer Rebecca Boteler
I
t’s the stunning privately owned tropical island in the heart of
the famous Queensland Whitsundays, and on the doorstep of
the Great Barrier Reef. Hamilton Island offers everything you
could hope for on an island holiday – luxury, nature, adventure,
excellent food and plenty of opportunities to relax. Whatever your
expectations are, prepare to have them exceeded.
7AM
Breakfast at the Beach Club is the perfect way to start a
morning in paradise. The specials each day are superb,
with delicious options both on the à la carte menu and buffet. Make
the most of the experience by sitting at one of the tables outside
overlooking the mirrored water of the infinity pool and further to the
calm ocean. The intimate child-free resort on the gorgeous Catseye
Beach fetaures a stunning infinity pool surrounded by palm trees,
where you can gaze out the ocean.
9AM
Arrive at the airport for a charter helicopter flight out
over the Great Barrier Reef and the iconic Heart Reef.
The views from the air will take your breath away and you’ll see
more shades of blue than you knew existed. If you have more time,
land at the Reef World Pontoon to experience this natural wonder
from below the surface. Snorkelling will provide an opportunity to
see turtles, octopus and reef sharks among the myriad marine life.

1PM 7PM
After relaxing by the pool or wandering around the lush After a change of clothes, your shuttle will take you up
tropical gardens at the Beach Club, your shuttle will to One Tree Hill, one of the best places on the island to
drive you to the Marina. Here you’ll board a Cruise Whitsundays take in the legendary sunset views. This of course can be done with
catamaran that will ferry you to the famous Whitehaven Beach. You a colourful cocktail in hand, or a wine and cheese platter ordered
can sit outside and drink in the views on the way to this stunning from the open-air bar.
little uninhabited island, which is said to have some of the whitest
sand in the world. Disembarking from the boat, you have three 8PM
hours to yourself to walk along the unbelievably soft sand, read After watching the sun slide into the horizon, walk or take
a book or swim in the azure waters, truly relaxing into island life. a shuttle to the beachside Southeast Asian restaurant Coca
Chu. One of the best on the island, its setting is contemporary yet
5PM inviting, with plenty of seating on the deck overlooking the ocean.
Return to Hamilton Island where your shuttle will be The food is spectacular and full of rich, aromatic flavours.
waiting to take you to the serene Spa Wumurdaylin
(meaning ‘dragonfly’ in the local Aboriginal language). Set in lush 10PM
tropical surrounds, the spa offers a full range of treatments to dissolve Since Coca Chu is only about 400 metres from the
any stress you may have brought with you. A luxurious full body Beach Club, you may choose to walk back to your room.
massage with essential oils is a one-way ticket to relaxation heaven. Either take the meandering path around the tropical pools or, for a
more romantic stroll, wander along the beach before retiring for
the night.
Concierge Insider
• At certain times of year, Queensland attracts jellyfish, so be
prepared to wear a stinger suit when out on the reef (it will be
provided).
• If you prefer to drive around the island, the main mode of
transport are golf buggies, which can be hired on a daily basis.
• If you’re going to Hamilton Island in peak season, make restaurant
and spa bookings online well before arriving.
• The Beach Club also offers complimentary breakfast at two other
locations, including Wild Life Hamilton Island, where you can
have breakfast with the koalas.
OPPOSITE PAGE: Soak in nature at the Beach Club pool; enjoy breathtaking views of Hamilton Island on a charter helicopter flight. THIS PAGE: Airy hotel rooms enhance the
tranquil views; have breakfast with koalas at the Beach Club’s Wild Life Hamilton Island location; stroll along the famous Whiteheaven Beach

2017
AsiaSpa magazine is proud to announce the

13th annual AsiaSpa Awards
AsiaSpa magazine is proud to announce the 13th annual AsiaSpa Awards. Created in 2005 to
recognise the leaders in Asia’s dynamic industry, the prestigious accolade sets the benchmark
for quality and innovation for spas in the region.
Innovation and quality are integral to the AsiaSpa Awards, whose intent is to acknowledge
and credit spas and properties that push the envelope and evolve this increasingly
sophisticated industry. Over the years, the AsiaSpa Awards has established its
uncompromised independence, transparency and objectivity. They are among the most
accessible awards, as all spas and resorts in the region are eligible for nomination, regardless
of size or ethos.
The AsiaSpa Awards were the first in the region to offer a comprehensive line-up of categories
that fully encompass every facet of the dynamic spa business. As the industry introduces
innovations, the awards reflect continual growth. Starting with 10 categories in its inception,
the number of awards has expanded to 26 today, to truly reflect the latest trends and
developments.
The AsiaSpa Awards are proud to commemorate the outstanding efforts of individuals
and companies in driving the exceptional standard of Asian spas forward. As always, the
spa community eagerly anticipates not only discovering the winners of the coveted 2017
trophies, but the special opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of peers and friends.
Organiser Main Sponsor Venue Sponsor Trophies Sponsor

ASIASPA AWARDS JUDGES
S t e p h a n i e S h i u , E d i t o r- i n - C h i e f, A s i a S p a Foong Seong Khong, Managing Director, Blu Inc

With over 10 years of experience in the magazine Media
publishing industry, Shiu’s editorial experience covers Foong Seong Khong is the Managing Director of Blu
luxury lifestyle, high society, fashion and custom Inc Media, a subsidiary of publicly listed media group
publishing, with a particular focus on travel and Singapore Press Holdings (SPH), the publisher of
well-being. She travels the globe in search of the best leading luxury lifestyle magazines, including AsiaSpa,
resorts, retreats and spas to share with AsiaSpa readers, Asia-Pacific Boating, China Boating, LP- Luxury
and is on the panel of judges for the Wellness Travel Properties, JET Asia-Pacific and Action Asia.
Awards and Cosmoprof Awards.
NOMINATIONS AND JUDGING

Check out our highly anticipated list of nominations in this issue to see if you have made the shortlist.
If you have any questions, please write to us at awards@bluincmedia.com
To ensure complete transparency, we invite a panel of judges to provide their unbiased, objective
opinions on which properties, products and treatments deserve to be nominated. They will then
pick a winner from each category from the shortlist. Results will be revealed at the AsiaSpa Awards
ceremony in November 2017.
The categories for the AsiaSpa Awards 2017 are:

Spa of the Year (Southeast Asia & the Pacific) Professional Spa Product Line of the Year
Spa of the Year (North & West Asia) Results-Oriented Product Line of the Year
Urban Spa of the Year Anti-Ageing Product Line of the Year
Day Spa of the Year Comprehensive Product Range of the Year
New Spa of the Year Natural Product Line of the Year
Men’s Spa of the Year Men’s Product Line of the Year
Eco-Spa of the Year Spa Cuisine of the Year
Medi-Spa of the Year Destination Hotel/Resort of the Year
Destination Retreat Programme of the Year Urban Hotel of the Year
Spa Treatment of the Year Family-Friendly Hotel/Resort of the Year
Couple’s Treatment of the Year Eco-Hotel/Resort of the Year
Men’s Spa Treatment of the Year Romantic Hotel/Resort of the Year
Medi-Spa Treatment of the Year
Innovative Spa Treatment of the Year

Johnny Chang, Founder & CEO, Spa Susie Ellis, Chairman and CEO, Global
Solutions Training & Management Wellness Summit
Consultancy As chairman and CEO of the Global Wellness
Founder and CEO of Spa Solutions Shanghai, Summit (GWS), Susie Ellis guides this gathering
Johnny Chang has more than 20 years of for top executives around the world that takes
international hotel spa and spa products place in a different country each year. Ellis is
branding experience in China. He acts as a also chairman and CEO of the not-for-profit
bridge of East and West, offering all-round spa Global Wellness Institute (GWI), a world
and product brands development consultation authority and think-tank for wellness-related
and training services to turn their passion industries. Susie Ellis is recognised as a leading
into reality. authority on spa and wellness worldwide and
is especially known for her annual Spa and
Wellness Trends Forecast. She is the recipient
of the International Spa Association’s Visionary
Award.
Faridah Ahmad Fadzil, Founding President of Nealy Fischer, Founder and Director of The
Malaysian Association of Wellness and Spa Flexible Chef
Faridah Binti Ahmad Fadzil is the co-founder of Nealy Fischer is the founder and director of
Tanamera, a natural range of spa and lifestyle The Flexible Chef, a global lifestyle brand
product. Apart from overseeing Tanamera that offers creative solutions to become more
Malaysian and export business, Faridah confident, savvy, and chef-like in your kitchen
travels extensively to give talks internationally. and your life. Fischer has been a leader in the
Faridah’s passion for the Wellness and Spa wellness industry for more than two decades,
industry have led her and her colleagues to designing and leading immersive cooking
set up the Malaysian Association of Wellness events, luxury yoga retreats, and women’s
and Spa in 2010 and was the association’s wellness empowerment programmes around
president from 2010 to 2015. She was also the world.
recently elected as a committee member for
Asia Pacific Spa and Wellness Coalition.
Jo Foley, Freelance Writer, Editor and Media Samantha Foster, Director, DSM and President,
Consultant IHWA
Jo Foley has been visiting, writing about and Foster is on a mission to make the world
reviewing spas on four continents for almost 30 happier and healthier, and as one of Asia’s
years for publication as diverse as the Financial leading wellness consultants, she is excited by
Times, Vanity Fair, Departures and the Daily the Wellness industry’s fast-growing ability to
Telegraph. She has also consulted on spas for change lives. She specialises in creating and
groups including One&Only, The Dorchester managing bespoke health resorts and wellness
Collection as well as a number of stand-alones. centres, drawing on the full spectrum of healing;
She has enjoyed much pampering, endured from ancient systems of traditional medicine
many fastings and retreats and explained the through to cutting-edge functional medicine
need we all have for time, space and peace of and biohacking. A passionate educator,
mind which is offered in some of the best holistic writer and speaker, Foster is also the founding
healing centres across the world. President of not-for-profit International Health
& Wellness Alliance (IHWA).
Najwa Green, Director Spa Services & Maggie Gunning, Spa Consultant
Products International, PT Élan Quality Maggie Gunning has gained much of her spa
Hospitality experience in Asia and Europe, honing her skills
With 30 years consulting for renowned global in all aspects of spa health and consultancy.
and local brands in the hotel, banking and Clients range from large international hotel
airline industries, Green is undoubtedly one groups through to luxury, boutique hotel
of the most qualified professionals in her field. spas. Gunning’s areas of expertise include
Implementing and maintaining extremely market feasibility, full concept and branding
high standards for numerous award-winning development, technical services, financial
luxury brands, she takes great pride in creating performance forecast as well as pre and post
bespoke and innovative spa treatments. She is opening services.
passionate about training, skills development
and specialises in customised programmes to
bring out the best in therapists and all levels of
industry personnel.
Andrew Jacka, Director, Spa Origins Chami Jotisalikorn, Author, Journalist and
Jacka is a veteran of the Asian spa industry, Communications Consultant
celebrating a career spanning 40 years in Chami Jotisalikorn is a journalist and author
hospitality. He heads up two not-for-profit of over 10 coffee table books on Asian spas,
organisations: Global Wellness Day Thailand, interiors, and luxury travel. Her blog Barefoot
and the Singaporean-based Asia Pacific Luxe is Asia’s top luxury travel and wellness
Spa & Wellness Coalition (APSWC) which blog. She contributes to newspapers and
organises the industry’s annual Round Table. travel and spa guides and is a Wellness Travel
His Bangkok-based Spa Origins specialises Expert for Spafinder USA. She works as a
in the provision of spa consultancy services communications consultant for niche clients
(part or whole project) working from concept such as boutique hotels, spa and wellness
through to operational opening and beyond retreats, and designers.
as is appropriate.

Catharine Nicol, Journalist Rachael Oakes-Ash, Journalist, Blogger and
Following four years as editor-in-chief and Producer
another four as editor-at-large of AsiaSpa, Rachael has always had a strong passion for
Catharine Nicol is now a freelancer, but still health and wellness. As a published author,
passionate about researching Asia’s renowned full time travel journalist, keynote speaker
destinations. Her love of the industry, its and documentary producer she has been a
growth and what it is achieving keeps her judge on the AsiaSpa Awards since 2006. As
motivated to keep discovering innovative a spa, wellness and travel writer her byline
treatments and skincare products, mind-body has been published by Conde Nast Traveler,
and spiritual philosophies and the incredible Wallpaper*, Luxe City Guides, South China
people and talent that lie behind them. Morning Post, DestinAsian, Emirates Open
Skies, Australian Financial Review, Sydney
Morning Herald and more.
Chris Ryall, Freelance Writer and Columnist Parineeta Sethi, Director of Exposure Media
Chris Ryall is a Toronto, Canada-based writer Marketing
and columnist. He specialises in writing about Parineeta Sethi is a pioneer in the luxury and
spa/wellness and travel for many national wellness industries in India. In 2003 she started
print/online publications in Canada and EMM with Selling World Travel and introduced
internationally. An avid spa enthusiast, he has AsiaSpa India and Millionaireasia India. By 2014
visited spas including many in Asia in more she spearheaded the merger of EMM, the largest
than 75 countries the past 25 years. He has international magazine publication in India and
judged for SpaFinder’s annual Wellness Travel a subsidiary of German-based Hurbert Burda
awards as well as the Canadian Spa Awards. Media. Sethi with her expertise has developed
He is an advocate for holistic approaches to a portfolio of high-end magazines in the travel,
health and getting more men to spas. wellness and luxury sectors and brought European
magazine titles to India. She has also launched
national award-winning coffee-table books.
Mark Smith, Editor, The Spa Man and Lisa Starr, Spa, Wellness and Salon Consultant,
Contributing Editor, European Spa Magazine Wynne Business
Mark Smith is a spa and grooming writer based Spa, wellness and salon business consultant
in London. Originally from Australia he moved for Wynne Business, Starr has over 30 years of
to the UK almost 20 years ago and spends his experience in the beauty industry, in all aspects
time consulting for brands and writing about from as a technician to regional manager. She has
the spa industry. As contributing editor for spent the last 17 years as a consultant and educator,
European Spa Magazine he travels widely helping companies maximise spa operations
across Europe and has also written for Men’s performance in both front and back of house. Starr
Fitness, Spa Traveller and Spa Ireland. One of is also the task force chair for the Global Wellness
a handful of male spa writers, Smith shares his Institute Consulting Initiative, a contributing editor
unique perspectives on his blog, The Spa Man. at Dayspa Magazine, a regular contributor to global
trade publications, a highly-rated speaker at spa
and beauty industry conferences, and offers spa
management courses across the globe.
Edward Wong, President, Esth’EdeS Pete Wong, PR Consultant, Awarna Media

Edward Wong is a veteran in the wellness Founder of PR consulting firm, Awarna
industry and has since 1986 involved in Media, Pete Wong counts travel, writing and
the business of beauty and spa products, photography as his life passions. When he has
salon and spa operation and education. time off from the office, he travels to remote
Wong actively engages the industry and destinations in Asia, at times visiting resorts
has served as president of the Day Spa and spas. His work is regularly featured in
Association Asian Chapter, director of the publications around the region, including
Association of Malaysian Spas and Asia- Forbes Asia, Shanghai Daily and ParGolf,
Pacific Spa & Wellness Coalition. He is among others. Wong is based in Kuala Lumpur
currently the president of the Spa and Wellness and has been contributing to AsiaSpa since
Association Singapore and ambassador for 2005.
Global Wellness Day in Singapore.
Melinda Yon, Senior Academic Staff, Diploma

in Wellness, Lifestyle & Spa Management,
Republic Polytechnic
Having lived in Asia for 15 years, Yon has
been a spa consultant, manager and business
owner, and trainer and lecturer for spa
management courses. She has also been a
guest speaker at many of the region’s spa
and wellness conferences. Yon edited the
first three annual editions of Asia’s first spa
publication dedicated to men, AsiaSpa Men.
She was formally a board member of the Asia
Pacific Spa and Wellness Coalition (APSWC)
for three years.

ASIASPA AWARDS 2017 NOMINEES
Spa of the Year (Southeast Asia & the Pacific) Day Spa of the Year
• Aman Spa, Amanoi, Nha Trang, Vietnam • BHAWA SPA, Bangkok, Thailand
• Banyan Tree Spa, Banyan Tree Spa Phuket Sanctuary, Thailand • Divana Virtue Spa, Bangkok, Thailand
• COMO Shambhala, Bali, Indonesia • Flawless, Hong Kong, China
• Conrad Spa Koh Samui, Conrad Koh Samui, Thailand • HARNN Heritage Spa Krungthep, Bangkok, Thailand
• ESPA at Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore • Jari Menari, Bali, Indonesia
• Fivelements, Bali, Indonesia • PAÑPURI Oasis Ginza Six, Tokyo, Japan
• Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, Gold Coast, Australia • Retreat by Bodywize, Hong Kong, China
• Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic Spa, Koh Samui, • Sense of Touch, Hong Kong, China
Thailand • Spa L’Occitane Flagship, Hong Kong, China
• Maia Spa, Fusion Maia Danang, Vietnam • Spring Spa Seminyak Village, Bali, Indonesia
• PAÑPURI Organic Spa, Park Hyatt Bangkok, Thailand • Sundari Day Spa, Bali, Indonesia
• Spa Village Pangkor Laut, Pangkor Laut Resort, Lumut, Malaysia • Yunomori Onsen & Spa Pattaya, Thailand
• The Acqua Sanctuary, The Farm at San Benito, Batangas,
Philippines New Spa of the Year
• Aman Spa, Amanyangyun, Shanghai, China
Spa of the Year (North & West Asia) • Aman Spa, Amanoi, Nha Trang, Vietnam
• Aman Spa, Amanbagh, Rajasthan, India • AWAY SPA, W Shanghai - The Bund, Shanghai, China
• Aman Spa, Aman Tokyo, Japan • Crown Spa, Crown Towers Perth, Australia
• Anantara Spa, Anantara Xishuangbanna Resort and Spa, China • Crystal Life, Dream Cruises, Hong Kong, China
• Banyan Tree Spa, Banyan Tree Lijiang, China • Duniye Spa, Hurawalhi Island Resort, Maldives
• Cedar Spa By L’Occitane, JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove • Fivelements, Hong Kong, China
Resort & Spa, India • PAÑPURI Organic Spa, Park Hyatt Bangkok, Thailand
• ESPA Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, China • The Heart of The Earth Spa, Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai,
• Roon Spa Village, The Dragon, Hangzhou, China Hoi An, Vietnam
• Six Senses Spa, Six Senses Qing Cheng Mountain, Chengdu, • The Ritz-Carlton Spa, The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore
China • The Ocean of Consciousness Spa, Four Seasons Private Island
• The Spa at Encore, Encore at Wynn Macau, China Maldives at Voavah, Baa Atoll, Maldives
• The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, Japan • The Spa at Wynn Palace, Wynn Palace Cotai, Macau, China
• Willow Stream Spa, Fairmont Peace Hotel Shanghai, China
Men’s Spa of the Year
Urban Spa of the Year • Attire House, Hong Kong, China
• Aman Spa, Aman Tokyo, Japan • Bliss Spa, W Hong Kong, China
• Banyan Tree Spa, Banyan Tree Bangkok, Thailand • ESPA Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, China
• Bliss Spa, W Hong Kong, China • Gentlemen’s Tonic, Hong Kong, China
• CHI, The Spa, Pudong Shangri-La, Shanghai, China • Iridium Spa, The St. Regis Macao, China
• Crown Spa, Crown Towers Melbourne, Australia • MI XUN Spa, The Temple House, Chengdu, China
• MI XUN Spa, The Temple House, Chengdu, China • Plateau Spa, Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, China
• Plateau Spa, Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, China • Spa by Clarins, The Residence Maldives
• The Majestic Spa, The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• The Peninsula Spa, The Peninsula Hong Kong, China
• The Ritz-Carlton Spa, The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore
• The Spa, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, India
• The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, Japan

Eco-Spa of the Year Spa Treatment of the Year

• Anaya Spa By L’Occitane, Anaya Kutir, Raichak on Ganges, • Abhyang Fusion, Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, Gold Coast, Australia
Kolkata, India • Aura-Soma Chakra Balance, The Healing Village Spa, Four Seasons
• Banyan Tree Spa, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, North Malé Atoll, Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay, Bali, Indonesia
Maldives • Banyan Tree Spa Tropical Rainmist, Banyan Tree Spa, Banyan Tree
• Fivelements, Bali, Indonesia Phuket, Thailand
• Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, Gold Coast, Australia • Fivelements Signature Sakti Ritual, Fivelements, Bali, Indonesia
• Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic Spa, Koh Samui, • Himalayan Healing Ritual, Tria Spa, MGM Macau, China
Thailand • Immortelle Divine Facial, Cedar Spa By L’Occitane, JW Marriott
• Mandala Spa, Mandala Spa & Resort Villas, Boracay, Philippines Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort & Spa, India
• Six Senses Spa, Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood, Thailand • Immunolymphatic Care, The Luxe House Spa, The Luxe House:
• Spa Village Pangkor Laut, Pangkor Laut Resort, Lumut, Malaysia Spa at Dempsey Hill, Singapore
• Indian Ocean Ritual, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, The Ritz-Carlton, Bali,
Medi-Spa of the Year Indonesia
• Aegle Wellness Center, Makati City, Philippines • Intraceuticals Intense Hydration Rejuvenate Facial, Swissôtel
• Chiva-Som International Health Resort, Hua Hin, Thailand Merchant Court, Singapore
• Cocoon Medical Spa, Bali, Indonesia • Signature Hilot Massage, CHI, The Spa, Shangri-la Boracay Resorts
• Dii wellness med spa, Bangkok, Thailand and Spa, Philippines
• Holistic Sanctuary, The Farm at San Benito, Batangas, Philippines • The Heritage Malaya, Iridium Spa, The St. Regis Langkawi, Malaysia
• LINNA, Bangkok, Thailand • The Legian Indulgence, The Spa at The Legian Bali, Indonesia
• Retreat by Bodywize, Hong Kong, China • Willow Stream Signature Bamboo Massage, Willow Stream Spa,
• Thanyapura Health & Wellness Retreat, Phuket, Thailand Fairmont Peace Hotel Shanghai, China
• The Zen Institute, Medical Spa, Philippines
Couple’s Treatment of the Year
Destination Retreat Programme of the Year • Couple’s Exotic Romance Retreat, Anantara Spa, Anantara Mai
• Addiction Rehabilitation & Recovery starts at 10 nights, Ayusha Khao Phuket Villas, Thailand
Functional Wellbeing Centre, Svarga Loka Resort, Bali, Indonesia • Couple’s Harmony, The Barai, Hyatt Regency Hua Hin, Thailand
• Amatara Detox, Amatara Wellness Resort, Phuket, Thailand • Harmonic Balancing Therapy for Couple, Burasari Spa, Burasari
• Ayurvedic Immersion, The Spa & Ayurvedic Retreat, Four Resort Patong, Phuket, Thailand
Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, Maldives • Love Couple Package, Heavenly Spa by Westin, The Westin
• Ayurvedic Panchkarma Retreat, Kairali - The Ayurvedic Healing Langkawi Resort & Spa, Malaysia
Village, Kerala, India • P.S. I Love You, Auriga spa, Capella Singapore
• Boot Camp, Body Weight Training, TRX Suspension Training • Secrets of the Sea Ritual, The Island Spa, Four Seasons Resort
& Spa Wellness, Anantara Spa, Anantara Layan Phuket Resort, Maldives at Kuda Huraa, Maldives
Thailand • Shiva Shakti Couple’s Treatment, Infinite Luxury Spa, Kata Rocks,
• Detox Journey, Pure Spa, Naman Retreat, Danang, Vietnam Phuket, Thailand
• Embracing Change, Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic • Swadhisthana Chakra Ceremony, The Sacred River Spa, Four
Spa, Koh Samui, Thailand Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, Indonesia
• Gwinganna Detox, Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, Gold Coast, • Transformation, Spa by CLARINS, W Goa, India
Australia • Underwater Massage, Niyama Spa, Niyama Private Islands,
• Integrated Wellness, Six Senses Spa, Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood, Maldives
Thailand
• The Meaning of Life Retreat, Aman Spa, Amankora, Thimphu,
Bhutan
• Wellness Immersions, Aman Spa, Amanbagh, Rajasthan, India

Men’s Spa Treatment of the Year Professional Spa Product Line of the Year
• Bukit Gantang Warrior Treatment, Spa Village Pangkor Laut, • Aromatherapy Spa Collection, Biossentials
Pangkor Laut Resort, Lumut, Malaysia • BABOR Ampoule Concentrates, BABOR
• Businessman’s Retreat, CHI, The Spa, Shangri-La Bangkok, • CITYLIFE Face and Eye Contour Sorbet Cream, PHYTOMER
Thailand • Gold Cellular Age-Restore Collection, ila
• Cool Man Space Retreat Spa package, Cool Spa, Sri panwa, • Hydrating Collection, Aromatherapy Associates
Phuket, Thailand • Pevonia lumafirm® Lift & Glow Face & Body Line, Pevonia Botanica
• Gentlemen Power Facial, Willow Stream Spa, Fairmont Natural Skincare
Singapore • Prodige Des Oceans, THALGO
• L’homme Parfait, ESPA Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, China • Rejuvenate, Intraceuticals
• ThalgoMen Ocean Ritual, Villa Thalgo, Windsor, Australia • TRANQUILLITY, [comfort zone]
• The Multi-‘face’-eted Customized Facial, Bliss Spa, W Hong
Kong, China Results-Oriented Product Line of the Year
• Total Time Ritual, Elemis Spa, The St. Regis Hotel Bangkok, • Atoxelene Line Wand, Intraceuticals
Thailand • Comodex, Christina
• Doctor Babor Hydro Cellular, BABOR
Medi-Spa Treatment of the Year • Lotus Defense™, PAÑPURI
• Ayurveda Black Marine, Dii wellness med spa, Bangkok, • Pevonia Stem Cells Phyto-Elite® Face & Body Line, Pevonia Botanica
Thailand Natural Skincare
• Ayurvedic Weight Loss Treatment, Kairali Ayurvedic Treatment • Power Oxygen, SKEYNDOR
Center, The Ayurvedic Healing Village, Kerala, India • Prodige Des Oceans, THALGO
• Bio Cell Lift Package, Cocoon Medical Spa, Bali, Indonesia • Rejuvenate and Restore, Subtle Energies
• Facial & Body Tightening, LINNA, Bangkok, Thailand • Relax Collection, Aromatherapy Associates
• Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Aegle Wellness Center, Makati, • Serum A Glyca, Biologique Recherche
Philippines • Talika Body Care, Talika
• Margy’s Ultimate Radiance Aesthetic Facial, The Peninsula Spa, • Vanessa Megan Fire & Frost Skin Refining Treatment, Vanessa Megan
The Peninsula Hong Kong, China
• Ultimate Regeneration, The Zen Institute, Medical Spa, Anti-Ageing Product Line of the Year
Philippines • Anti-Ageing Collection, Aromatherapy Associates
• Doctor Babor Lifting Cellular, BABOR
Innovative Spa Treatment of the Year • Immortelle Divine, L’Occitane
• 24 Solar Terms TCM Treatment Series, Crown Spa, Crown Towers, • Opulence, Intraceuticals
Macau, China • Pevonia Myoxy-Caviar Line, Pevonia Botanica Natural Skincare
• Floral Chic Package, Angsana Spa, Angsana Laguna Phuket, • Polivitaminic Line, Anubis Barcelona
Thailand • Silicium Marin, THALGO
• Cello Concerto, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia • Sublime Skin, [comfort zone]
Singapore • The VIP 02 Line: Oxygenating treatments, Biologique Recherche
• Intraceuticals Intense Hydration Rejuvenate Facial, Pürovel Spa • Time Reversal Series Andaman Complex, Dii Wellness Skincare
and Sport, Swissôtel Merchant Court, Singapore • Timeless Prodigy, SKEYNDOR
• Longevity Phikat Bua Arokaya, Divana Nurture Spa, Bangkok, • VITAMIN C+ PEARLS, Karuna
Thailand
• Mindful Energy, Maia Spa, Fusion Maia Danang, Vietnam Comprehensive Product Range of the Year
• Resonance Therapy, The Ocean of Consciousness Spa, Four • BABOR
Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, Baa Atoll, Maldives • Christina
• Spirit of Sound, Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, Gold Coast, • [comfort zone]
Australia • Pevonia Botanica Natural Skincare
• Sweet Sixteen, Zensa Spa, Studio City Macau, China • Sela Ancient Minerals
• Vanessa Megan Cryo Facelift - Ice Cube Treatment, Vanessa • Subtle Energies
Megan, Australia • THALGO
• Vanessa Megan

Natural Product Line of the Year Urban Hotel of the Year

• Astrological Massage Oil Collection, I plus Q • Aman Tokyo, Japan
• Ayurveda Aromatherapy Prescription Blends, Subtle Energies • Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul, South Korea
• Certified Organic Essential Oils, Massage Oils, Skin Care and • Fairmont Peace Hotel, Shanghai, China
Spa Products, HOPE • I’M Hotel, Manila, Philippines
• Esse Probiotic Serum+, Esse • JA Hatta Fort Hotel, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
• Healing Earth, Healing Earth • Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, Japan
• Nutri-Define of Age Reclaim, Jurlique • NUO Hotel Beijing, China
• PAÑPURI Organics, PAÑPURI • Shinta Mani Hotels, Siem Reap, Cambodia
• Pevonia Tropicale De-Aging Spa Body Line, Pevonia Botanica • The Siam Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand
Natural Skincare • W Shanghai - The Bund, Shanghai, China
• Remedy, [comfort zone]
• Vanessa Megan Certified Organic The Holy Trinity Pack, Vanessa Family-Friendly Hotel/Resort of the Year
Megan • Angsana Laguna Phuket, Thailand
• AYANA Resort and Spa BALI, Indonesia
Men’s Product Line of the Year • Hyatt Regency Hua Hin, Thailand
• Beer Collection, I Plus Q • JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, Thailand
• Cedrat, L’Occitane • Kerry Hotel Hong Kong, China
• Doctor Babor Repair Cellular, BABOR • Naman Retreat, Danang, Vietnam
• ELEMIS Time for Men, ELEMIS • Niyama Private Islands, Maldives
• MAN SPACE, [comfort zone] • Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa, India
• Refinery Collection, Aromatherapy Associates • Shangri-La’s Hambantota Golf Resort & Spa, Sri Lanka
• Sri panwa, Phuket, Thailand
Spa Cuisine of the Year • Studio City Macau, China
• Alive!, Healing Sanctuary, The Farm at San Benito, Philippines • The Residence Maldives
• Athlete Plant Based Thanyapura, Thanyapura Health & Wellness
Retreat, Phuket, Thailand Eco-Hotel/Resort of the Year
• Eat Well at Shangri-La, Chi Spa, Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore • Alaya Resort Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
• Four Elements Spa Cuisine, Banyan Tree Spa, Banyan Tree • Banyan Tree Lijiang, China
Bangkok, Thailand • Chiva-Som International Health Resort, Hua Hin, Thailand
• Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, Gold Coast, Australia • Fivelements, Bali, Indonesia
• Kamalaya’s Inspired Healthy Cuisine, Kamalaya Wellness • Gaya Island Resort, Malaysia
Sanctuary & Holistic Spa, Koh Samui, Thailand • Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary and Holistic Spa Resort, Koh Samui, Thailand
• Sakti Dining Room™, Fivelements, Bali, Indonesia • Six Senses Rssort Laamu, Maldives
• Wellness Immersions, Aman Spa, Amanpuri, Phuket, Thailand • The Andaman, a Luxury Collection Resort Langkawi, Malaysia
Destination Hotel/Resort of the Year Romantic Hotel/Resort of the Year

• Alaya Resort Jembawan, Bali, Indonesia • Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, Maldives
• Amanoi, Ninh Thuan Province, Vietnam • AYANA Resort and Spa BALI, Indonesia
• AYANA Resort and Spa BALI, Indonesia • Cheval Blanc Randheli, Maldives
• Cheval Blanc Randheli, Maldives • Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan, Cebu, Philippines
• COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali, Indonesia • Four Seasons Resort Maldives Kuda Huraa, Maldives
• Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, Malaysia • Hurawalhi Island Resort, Maldives
• Genting Dream, Dream Cruises, Hong Kong, China • Keemala, Phuket, Thailand
• LUX* South Ari Atoll, Maldives • Nihi Sumba Island, Indonesia
• Nihi Sumba Island, Indonesia • Niyama Private Islands, Maldives
• Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto, Japan • Sri panwa, Phuket, Thailand
• The Farm at San Benito, Batangas, Philippines
• The Legian Bali, Indonesia FOR MORE DETAILS PLEASE CONTACT
awards@bluincmedia.com
www.asiaspa.com/awards2017

SocietyHighlights
1
MAGIC MALT
To celebrate an extraordinary collaboration between Whisky
Master Bob Dalgarno and Master Perfumer, Roja Dove, limited
edition The Macallan Edition No.3 was unveiled at Island
Shangri-La in late October. The MC for the multi-sensory journey
was Helen Ma.
www.themacallan.com
2 3
4 5
1. Roja Dove, Helen Ma, Enrique Cherubini, Celine Chiu and Alfonso
Antons
2. Mandy Tsoi, Peter Woo, Tong Cheong, May Wong, Cecilia Luk,Gia
Parungao and Ping Remulla
3. Parisa Chan and Erica Cheung
4. Hilary Wong, Peter Woo and Hang Leung
5. Lawrence Siu, Morris Leung, Polly Fung and Jamie Chau
6. Allen Tse, Parisa Chan and Frederick Wong

1
DROP OF SUNSHINE
In September, L’Occitane celebrated the opening of
its concept store in Hong Kong with a preview of the
upgraded Immortelle Divine collection attended by
Priscilla Wong, Benjamin Yuen, Bernice Liu, Paisley
Wu, Macy Chan, Toby Leung and Andrew Pong.
The redesigned store conjures the warm sunshine of
Provence. www.loccitane.com
2 3
1. Terrence Lau, Bernice Liu, Cara G, Toby Leung, Benjamin

Yuen, Priscilla Wong, Macy Chan, Bianca Wu, Elanne Kong
and Andrew Pong
2. Benjamin Yuen
3. Elanne Kong
4. The store's cheery interior
5. Priscilla Wong
6. Trying the product first-hand

SocietyHighlights
1
CANAL PLEASURES
Robert De Niro’s global campaign is reason enough to throw a party.
Ermenegildo Zegna celebrated the second chapter of its ‘Defining
Moments’ global FW2017 advertising campaign early September in
a private Venetian palace. The brand’s artistic director Alessandro
Sartori and renowned French choreographer and dancer Benjamin
Millepied were joined by the likes of Francesco Carrozzini, Bee
Shaffer, Pietro Valsecchi and Alex Britti.
www.zegna.com
3 4 5
1. Umberto Branchini and Servant Joel

2. The party vibe
3. Alessandra and Filippo Gaggia
4. Francesco Carrozzini and Bee Shaffer
5. Alex Britti

1
BEAUTY 101
Twenty guests had a chance to take the
class of a lifetime at the Dior Maison de
Beauté in Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong,
where beauty consultants unveiled the
revolutionary formula of the new Prestige
La Micro-Huile de Rose, followed by
tips from a registered nutritionist on
designing a diet for more beautiful skin.
www.dior.com
2 3
1. Prestige beauty class by nutritionist Kendy Tam and beauty consultants

2. Beauty tips revealed
3. Olivia Lee and Alyscia Mak
4. Karen Chan
5. Seci Kwong, Minnie Chow and Dorcas Cheung, Head - Sales &
Marketing at Blu Inc Media (HK)

THE 10
November/December 2017 MINDFUL TOP
AYURVEDIC
THE 10 ISSUE RETREATS
MINDFUL TOP
AYURVEDIC
CLEAN BEAUTY
ISSUE RETREATS
CLEAN BEAUTY
ROMANTIC
TRAIN TRAVEL
ROMANTIC
OMAN TRAIN TRAVEL
OBSESSION
OMAN
OBSESSION
Subscribe now!
WIN A 3-DAY WEEKEND CRUISE ON GENTING DREAM
SUBSCRIBE to AsiaSpa today for a chance to win a Weekend Cruise Alternatively, head to the Crystal Life Spa for a holistic wellness
on Genting Dream for two! experience. Try one of their latest Crystal journeys, which are a
Discover Southeast Asia on board Genting Dream, which will selection of specialty treatments in a seaview spa suite combined
arrive at her new homeport in Singapore this November. From late with a private yoga class and a healthy lunch or afternoon tea.
November to the end of March 2018, the luxury floating resort To celebrate the festive season, Genting Dream will be hosting
by Dream Cruises will take guests to fascinating destinations on special holiday programmes during November and December,
two-, five- or 12-night voyages, including Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, including live bands and gourmet feasts on ‘Dream Night’ and
Penang, Phuket, Surabaya and North Bali; while new destinations dazzling ‘Fireworks at Sea’, the first-ever Mermaid Academy at Sea,
in the South China Sea and the Java Seas will be offered from April as well as the ‘Reach for the Stars’ junior talent show.
to October 2018. www.dreamcruiseline.com
While at sea, guests can expect a new integrated resort
experience that blends luxurious comfort, thrilling shows and Subscribe to AsiaSpa now for a chance to win the following:
numerous dining options. Stay at the Dream Palace and you will feel • Two-night Weekend Cruise on Genting Dream for two people
extra special – featuring an exclusive pool, gym and sundeck, 142 (departing from Singapore, blackout dates apply)
elegant suites, fine dining at your private restaurant and European- • A spa treatment for two
style butler service that caters to your every need. • Dining credits for two
Sea days can be filled with exciting activities: a six-slide
waterpark, ropes course with zip line and a range of sports facilities. For more information, visit www.asiaspa.com

MARC GERRITSEN/LIVED IN IMAGES/CORBIS; MAISANT LUDOVIC/HEMIS/CORBIS;
JUTTA KLEE/CORBIS; SPA AND WELLNESS/ISTOCKPHOTO
HOTELS &
RESORTS
RETREATS
your guide to luxury travel
Travel &
Luxury – Travel – Wellness

WELLNESS
& wellness
Wellness Guide
SPA
SHANGHAI, CHINA Travel&WellnessGuide
AWAY SPA AT
W SHANGHAI – THE BUND
GET YOUR GLOW on while leaving behind all the traditional confines of spa culture.
Plunge into the freedom and fun of our full suite of bespoke and luxurious AWAY treatments,
designed to revamp your mind, body and spirit in an extraordinary fashion. Featuring Versa
Machine Healing, Shanghai Glam Massage and Intraceuticals facial treatments, we infuse
your senses with elixirs from exclusive lines by Intraceuticals, Botanywell, Comfort Zone
and Givenchy through the expert touch of talented therapists. Surrounded by soothing W Shanghai – The Bund
settings in a two-level sanctuary set against city views, targeted tune-ups and decompressing 66 Lvshun Road
on-demand fixes will get you event ready, or help you unwind after a night on the town, Shanghai 20080 P.R. China
Tel: (86) 21 2286 9999
with three couple rooms, four single rooms and a spa suite to get your ‘om’ on. Linger and
Fax: (86) 21 2286 9988
lounge in the sauna, plunge pool or by the firepit with snacks and detox juices. Email: Awayspa.wshanghai@whotels.com
www.whotels.com/shanghaithebund

Travel&WellnessGuide
SHANGHAI, CHINA

SINGAPORE Travel&WellnessGuide
WILLOW STREAM SPA

at Fairmont Singapore
WITH A PHILOSOPHY driven by a passion in having each and every guest leave its hallowed
ground energised, Willow Stream Spa brims with unbridled energy as it embodies the finest
and the most luxurious treatments of both East and West. To step inside its sanctuary is to
step into a world where energy is created by its unique diversity. A world where Fairmont’s
passion for history and tradition blends with a fervour for the best of the modern world…
where a modern metropolis is surrounded by green parks; where a confluence of cultures
live together in peace; a world that attracts both power brokers and recovering adventurers.
This is the energy that inspires Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Singapore.
Willow Stream Spa is a 50,000sqft sanctuary of wellness and luxurious pampering, nestled
within Singapore’s urban landscape. Equipped with 23 treatment rooms, a fitness centre with
Willow Stream Spa
cardio theatre, strength training area and fitness studio, this sprawling enclave features a pavilion, Fairmont Singapore
VIP suites, sauna and steam rooms, two free-form swimming pools, six tennis courts, Alligator Level 6, 80 Bras Basah Road
Pear Restaurant & Pool Bar, a lifestyle boutique, relaxation lounge with personal headsets and Singapore 189560
Tel: (65) 6431 5600
more. Located from levels six to eight of Fairmont Singapore, Willow Stream Spa has tailored
Fax: (65) 6336 1161
experiences that reflect the needs of tourists and locals alike, epitomising its dedication in Email: willowstream.enquiries@fairmont.com
creating authentic and energising spa treatments. www.fairmont.com/singapore

SINGAPORE

HONG KONG, CHINA Travel&WellnessGuide
SENSE OF TOUCH
OFFERING THE BEST in beauty and wellness since 2002, Sense of Touch is Asia’s most
awarded day spa with premium Hong Kong locations in Central Lan Kwai Fong, Repulse
Bay, Discovery Bay, Tseung Kwan O, Sai Kung, Cyberport and Tung Chung; and managing
spa centres in various clubhouses that offer all-round beauty care, relaxing and pampering
treatments for urbanites. Sense of Touch has created signature treatments of massage, scrub
and bath for each spa inspired by their locations. Step into one of our spas and experience
a journey that goes beyond just a treatment.
We created Sense of Touch Laboratories, a technologically advanced natural skincare
range produced by Japan’s leading cosmeceutical company Zeal Cosmetics. The hero
product Fresh Collagen Infusing Essence combines five revolutionary technologies with
Sense of Touch
pure fresh collagen, delivered to every layer of skin through time-release technology, based Central Spa (Flagship Spa)
on advanced triple liposome structure. Together with cutting-edge products, experience 1–5/F, 52 D’Aguilar Street
four carefully chosen and result-oriented Sense of Touch Facials that are available in all Lan Kwai Fong, Central
Hong Kong
our locations.
Tel: (852) 2526 6918
Sense of Touch is more than a spa. Drawing on 15 years of experience and skincare
expertise, the spa has partnered with a medical group to offer modern non-invasive aesthetic Repulse Bay Spa
treatments at Crowne Plaza Hong Kong Kowloon East. The treatments are dedicated to G211, 1/F, The Repulse Bay Arcade
109 Repulse Bay Road
enhancing beauty and confidence by using state-of-the-art technology, including High-
Hong Kong
intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), the ultimate tightening and contouring solution to Tel: (852) 2526 9668
restore youth without downtime, fractional laser skin rejuvenation to improve pigmentation,
Botox, fillers and other aesthetics treatments. Relax at Hong Kong’s only Balinese villa-style Tseung Kwan O Spa
3/F, Crowne Plaza Hong Kong Kowloon East
spa and indulge in the serene environment of a tropical garden.
3 Tong Tak Street, Tseung Kwan O
Hong Kong
Tel: (852) 3983 0406
www.senseoftouch.com.hk
Sense of Touch Laboratories

www.sotlabs.com

HONG KONG, CHINA

BODYWIZE WELLNESS IMMERSIONS
RETREAT • RESHAPE • YOGA & AIR FITNESS
THE MULTI-AWARD-WINNING luxury wellness premium spa and fitness sanctuary, Bodywize
Wellness Group is situated in the heart of Causeway Bay, one of the most premier lifestyle, shopping
and commercial districts, with three locations showcasing very different facets of Bodywize, offering
spa rituals, healing therapies, yoga, Superfunctional individual training and body sculpting, while
adhering to the group’s initial core value: Wellness...as a way of life. Retreat by Bodywize
Retreat by Bodywize, with its subtle art deco and spacious area, is a perfect wellness spa. 1F, Cubus, 1 Hoi Ping Road
Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
Guests’ beautifying journeys begin with a stroll along a promenade awash in natural light before Tel: (852) 2111 1656
indulging in one of many spa treatments, ranging from classic to high tech. The Retreat’s Double Email: dayspa@bodywize.com.hk
Happiness journey won the ‘Couple’s Treatment of the Year’ at the AsiaSpa Awards 2016 and is the
first day spa in Hong Kong to launch ESPA products along with customised signature treatments.
Bodywize Wellness recently launched its fitness and largest facility at 3,200sqft, Reshape by
Bodywize. Opened in July 2017, the facility is set to fundamentally alter the way we train our
body, senses and movement. From body sculpting to personal Superfunctional training based
on Sudden Dynamic Interference, programmes are individually designed to improve fitness and Reshape by Bodywize
2F, Cubus, 1 Hoi Ping Road
physical senses, while ensuring overall vitality and well-being. The interior of Reshape keeps a Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
natural aesthetic with organic elements to strengthen the human-nature connection. Natural light Tel: (852) 2111 1877
sets the ambience of the workout zone and The Penthouse is an area focusing on hand and foot Email: reshape@bodywize.com.hk
rituals by ESPA with an emphasis on the ambience of serenity and comfort.
Bodywize Yoga & Fitness is a 3,000sqft studio offering Air and yoga practices, contributes not
merely to one’s spiritual growth and group awareness, but also to health and mobility. Various
sustainable yoga clothing brands are available, featuring eco-friendly materials that add a green
touch to the mindful lifestyle.
Bodywize Yoga & Fitness
3F, Cubus, 1 Hoi Ping Road
Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
Tel: (852) 2838 5686
Email: yoga@bodywize.com.hk
www.bodywize.com.hk

MACAU, CHINA Travel&WellnessGuide
MANDARIN ORIENTAL, MACAU

ENJOY EXTRAORDINARY PRIVILEGES with additional two complimentary round-trip
TurboJET tickets between Hong Kong and Macau.
The Bundle of Delights package with round-trip TurboJET ferry tickets between
Hong Kong and Macau for two people starts from MOP 2,399 and includes one night’s
accommodation with Internet, choice of three exclusive privileges such as room upgrade,
bubbles and strawberry welcome amenity, breakfast, afternoon tea or two spa treatments
for the price of one at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Macau.
Blending chic style with oriental touches, the hotel’s spacious room and suites feature
floor-to-ceiling windows, offering stunning views of the South China Sea, Nam Van Lake
or Taipa Island, creating an atmosphere of tranquillity. As the weather gets warmer, guests
can relax at the hotel’s outdoor infinity pool and whirlpool overlooking the South China
Sea. The adjacent fitness centre is equipped with the latest Technogym equipment and a
comprehensive heat experience to relieve stress and promote overall well-being.
While the Bundle of Delights package is valid year-round, the round-trip TurboJET ferry
tickets between Hong Kong and Macau are only available for stays before March 31 2018, Mandarin Oriental, Macau
so take advantage of this limited-time offer to visit Macau. Rates are subject to 10 per cent Avenida Dr. Sun Yat-Sen
service charge and five per cent government tourism tax. No. 945, Macau
Tel: (853) 8805 8888
Reservations can be made through Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s online reservations
Fax: (853) 8805 8899
service at www.mandarinoriental.com or by contacting the reservations office at Mandarin Email: momac@mohg.com
Oriental, Macau at (853) 8805 8822 or momac-reservations@mohg.com. www.mandarinoriental.com

MACAU, CHINA
Top: The Spa at Encore. Bottom: The Spa at Wynn Palace Cotai
WYNN MACAU AND WYNN PALACE COTAI
The Ultimate Indulgence at Wynn
OFFERING A WIDE range of pampering journeys is the Forbes Travel Guide Five Star
Spa at Encore at Wynn Macau, and together with The Spa at Wynn Palace they provide
guests with two tranquil havens in bustling Macau.
If you are looking for an exclusive experience, visit the 11,500sqft Spa at Encore,
The Spa at Encore
where eight luxurious Private Spa Relaxation Suites come complete with their own steam 1/F, Encore at Wynn Macau
room, sauna, hydrotherapy aroma bath and relaxation lounge. Tailored programmes Rua Cidade de Sintra
ensure a personalised spa journey, while a must-try is the 1-6-8 signature treatment – a NAPE, Macau
Tel: (853) 8986 3228
full-body treatment of Himalayan salt scrub, aromatherapy steam, a four-hand massage
www.wynnmacau.com
and a revitalising facial, performed by three therapists over a leisurely 168 minutes.
Spanning 48,403sqft, The Spa at Wynn Palace is the largest spa in the city and features
22 ultra-chic and comfortable treatment rooms, including eight private suites. Indulge in a
range of rejuvenating facials and transcendent massages, as well as signature holistic body
rituals, each custom-designed to suit individual needs. Authentic massage techniques are
combined with the latest technologies, delivered by skilled therapists for the best results.
The Emperor and Empress Wynn Palace Rituals are highly recommended for those seeking The Spa at Wynn Palace
head-to-toe indulgence, while facials such as the Diamond Life Infusion combines a gold Spa-Villas-Pool Level, Wynn Palace
Av. Da Nave Desportiva
bar, light therapy and a gold soft mask to rejuvenate the skin.
Cotai, Macau
Whether you seek relaxation or rejuvenation, The Spa at Encore and The Spa at Wynn Tel: (853) 8889 3228
Palace will ensure you emerge feeling thoroughly pampered and revitalised. www.wynnpalace.com

SENSING THE MOMENT AT ANGSANA SPA

ANGSANA SPA TAKES its name from the exotic Angsana Tree – a tall, tropical rainforest tree noted for its crown of golden, fragrant flowers,
which bursts into bloom unexpectedly. The Angsana teaches one to live life spontaneously, to sense the moment and savour time as it passes
inexorably. Its refreshing blend of treatments places special emphasis on the use of natural ingredients such as native flowers and fruits. It is
based on the use of aromatherapy, the therapeutic sense of touch, and a fusion of techniques from the East and West to refresh and
rejuvenate the body, mind and spirit.
All Angsana Spa therapists are formally trained in the art of touch based on the stringent curriculum of the Banyan Tree Spa
Academies located in Phuket in Thailand, and Bintan in Indonesia. Banyan Tree Spa Academy in Phuket is accredited by Thailand’s
Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health and Banyan Tree Spa Academy Bintan is licensed by Indonesia’s Ministry
of Education. The dedicated training facilities ensure that our therapists deliver high-quality service consistently to exceed the
expectations of the most discerning spa enthusiasts, a promise many have come to trust in the Angsana Spa experience.
The signature Angsana Massage was created exclusively for Angsana Spa. Using Euphoria Oil, extracts from ylang-ylang, Litsea
cubeba and sweet basil, this unique treatment promotes concentration and improves blood circulation.
Enjoy an exclusive 10 per cent savings on Angsana Massage when you quote “AsiaSpa” upon booking.
Email: pr-spa@banyantree.com
angsanaspa.com
Central Vietnam • Greater China • Guam •India • Indonesia • Ireland • Japan • Kenya • Laos •
Malaysia • Maldives • Mauritius • Morocco • Qatar • South Africa • Sri Lanka • Thailand

TOKYO, JAPAN
THE SPA AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL, TOKYO
THE SAKURA RITUAL by the Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo is a Japanese
immersion journey that begins by paying respect to ancient cultural traditions
that involve washing the feet of visitors as they enter a home. We encourage our
guests to take the time to peacefully transition from the outside world while we
learn about your needs. It continues with the Azuki Bean Scrub, an ultra gentle but
highly effective exfoliation of sesame seeds, salt and finely ground Japanese azuki
beans known to contain saponaria, an organic foaming agent that naturally draws
out impurities from the skin while promoting circulation. The Japanese believe that
azuki is a powerful, non-surgical alternative to a skin lift, so visible are the tightening
and moisturising effects on the skin. We honour another Japanese tradition with
Kiatsu, an original, all-over body massage that blends the most effective therapies
of Japanese shiatsu and Thai Massage to relieve tight muscles through movements
and gentle stretching.
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo

2-1-1, Nihonbashi Muromachi,
Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-8328
Japan
Tel: (81) 3 3270 8300
Email: motyo-spaconcierge@mohg.com
www.mandarinoriental.com/tokyo

KOH SAMUI, THAILAND Travel&WellnessGuide
KAMALAYA
Life Enhancement Group Retreats
SINCE ITS INCEPTION in 2005, Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic Spa has embraced a
spirit of healing through personal and collective transformation. The shared process of growth
among guests and hosts alike enhances the wellness journey and empowers each individual
experience. While Kamalaya’s focus continues to be on personalised wellness programmes, the
Life Enhancement Group Retreats provide a setting for guests to explore specific areas of interest
in greater depth and benefit from the support network of like-minded individuals, with a maximum
of 12 participants per retreat.
Awakening Your Essential Self with Kamalaya Founder Karina Stewart

Feb 24–Mar 4 2018 • Sept 22–30 2018
You will have the unique opportunity to work closely with Kamalaya founder and Master of Traditional Chinese
Medicine, Karina Stewart, who will personally facilitate a series of intimate group retreats to support participants
through a subtle process of inner discovery and awakening their essential self. You will be guided through practices,
therapies and dialogues to discover, clear and release habits and patterns that no longer serve a healthy and fulfilling
life. Become free to reconnect to your inner source of well-being and restart anew.
Finding Emotional Balance & Freedom with Kamalaya’s Life Enhancement Mentors
Nov 2–8 2017 • May 9–15 2018 • Aug 30–Sept 5 2018 • Nov 22–28 2018
Explore your emotional habits and learn to respond to life’s challenges healthily, guided by Kamalaya’s Life
Enhancement Mentors Rajesh Ramani, Smitha Jayakumar and Sujay Seshadri. Having been immersed in
monastic lifestyles in India for over a decade, all of them are experienced teachers with a strong background in
ancient Asian philosophies.
Yin & Yang Yoga Immersion with Simon Low

Dec 7–11 2017 • Mar 29–Apr 2 2018 • May 31–Jun 4 2018 • Oct 18–22 2018 • Dec 6–10 2018
Enrich and expand your yoga practice with Simon Low, one of the world’s foremost specialists of yin and yang
yoga, principal of The Yoga Academy and co-founder of Triyoga in London. Simon’s balanced, intelligent and truly
holistic approach makes these retreats suitable for all levels. Participants benefit from individualised consideration
and insights informed by Simon’s ongoing studies in applied anatomy, Traditional Chinese Medicine, pranayama,
oriental and contemporary energy practices, psychology and philosophy.
For further information, please visit www.kamalaya.com/retreats-thailand.htm
Kamalaya Wellness
Sanctuary & Holistic Spa
102/9 Moo 3, Laem Set Road, Na-Muang
Koh Samui, Suratthani 84140 Thailand
Tel: (66) 77 429 800
Fax: (66) 77 429 899
Email: reservations@kamalaya.com
www.kamalaya.com

BALI, INDONESIA
THE LEGIAN BALI
Blissful Christmas Celebration
HAVE A MEMORABLE Christmas at The Legian Bali this year. We invite you to enjoy an
unparalleled experience with your friends, family or loved ones at The Restaurant, where
an exclusive menu featuring premium cuisine has been prepared for you. Don’t forget to
drop by our unique island-style Christmas tree created especially for the festive season for
an Insta-worthy snap.
On December 24, celebrate Christmas Eve with a splendid five-course dinner. Enjoy
delectable treats with your loved ones, accompanied by a captivating live performance The Legian Bali
of your favourite musical classics from our pianist – a blissful and unforgettable evening Jalan Kayu Aya,
ensured. Seminyak Beach Bali 80361,
Indonesia
This special dinner is available from 7pm and priced at IDR 1,150,000++ per person,
Tel : (62) 361 730622
or IDR 550,000++ per child under 12 years old. Advance reservations are required; please Fax: (62) 361 730623
call (62) 361 730 622 or email fb@thelegianbali.com. www.lhm-hotels.com

DANANG, VIETNAM Travel&WellnessGuide
NAMAN RETREAT
Best Spa Resort Destination in Southeast Asia
PERFECTLY NESTLED ON the pristine Non Nuoc Beach between trendy Danang and the ancient town
of Hoi An, the five-star contemporary Naman Retreat is designed with a harmonious mix of greenery,
natural stone and bamboo, creating a perfect atmosphere to maximise purification and relaxation
of body and mind. The boutique resort seamlessly blends timeless Vietnamese heritage and culture
with luxurious modern charm. This eco-chic, environmentally friendly retreat has impressive bamboo
architecture, merging spa lifestyle with contemporary design. With exquisite interiors combined with
the Vietnamese countryside landscape and rice cultivation culture, Naman Retreat sets the mood
for an ideal escape to the endless beach and countless historic treasures of Vietnam’s central coast.
Naman Retreat blurs the lines between resort and spa, offering marvellous living spaces, train-
ing sessions as well as yoga and meditation classes by yoga Master Giri, who has over 16 years of
experience, to calm your mind, heal your body and renew your soul. The ‘no wall’ treatment rooms
look out onto buoyant gardens, but with complete privacy. Recognised as the ‘Best Spa Resort Destina-
tion in South East Asia’ by Asian Lifestyle Tourism Awards 2017, our daily inclusive spa treatment will
let you leave enriched, renewed and rejuvenated. Embark on your journey of Being – Consciousness
– Bliss at Naman Retreat.
Naman Retreat
Truong Sa Road, Danang, Vietnam
Tel: (84) 2363 959 888
2016 2017 Email: info@namanretreat.com
Vietnam's Asia's Leading Retreat Asia's Leading Retreat www.namanretreat.com
Best Wellness Retreat

QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA
GWINGANNA LIFESTYLE RETREAT
GWINGANNA LIFESTYLE RETREAT in Queensland, Australia offers a complete health and wellness
destination for guests to step away from their busy lives and refocus on their health.
Set high on a plateau on over 200 hectares with views across the valley and ocean, it is
Ecotourism certified and has the largest space of any spa retreat in Australasia.
Gwinganna has become known for its extensive range of innovative wellness programmes
winning multiple awards. Packages are fully inclusive of accommodation, all organic meals, a
diverse range of activities, key wellness seminars and selected spa and wellness therapies. Premium
accommodation includes the Meditation Suites and also villas in various locations.
Set arrival dates help create an exclusive environment for guests to switch off with facilities that
include two infinity edge chemical-free swimming pools, indoor training studios, a pavilion and
gymnasium, a wellness centre, a labyrinth and the stunning Spa Sanctuary, the largest spa in the
Southern Hemisphere. The spa has 33 treatment rooms and the menu offers unique options exclusive
to Gwinganna, treatments using the award winning Subtle Energies Ayurveda Aromatherapy range,
equine therapies working with our horses and a variety of wellness and stress management options.
To help guests extend their retreat experience or try a taste of Gwinganna, Wellness at Home
was created in 2017 and is now available in print and online. Covering four pillars of wellness,
this is the chance to learn from 17 wellness experts with a range of interviews, articles, practical
activities and meditations.
Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat
192 Syndicate Rd, Tallebudgera Valley
Queensland, Australia 4228
Tel: (61) 7 5589 5000
Fax: (61) 7 55338378
Email: info@gwinganna.com
www.gwinganna.com

HotSpot
Relais Christine, Paris

Once a medieval abbey, Relais Christine is now a boutique hotel located in the heart of
Saint-Germaine-des-Prés on the Left Bank. Despite its convenient location – just a short
walk from prestigious restaurants, galleries, boutiques, the Latin Quarter and famous
sights such as Notre-Dame and the Louvre – the 48-key abode is a sanctuary hidden
behind wrought iron gates on Rue Christine, where a green courtyard and a honey-stone
townhouse promise tranquillity.
While the mansion has been transformed into an elegant hotel with a mix of
contemporary design and period features, its history can still be seen in the vaulted
ceilings, ancient fireplaces and wood panelling. Parisian charm imbues each individually
styled guest room, featuring antiques, rich woodwork and velvet. The most sought-after
rooms are the Garden Suites, which boast a terrace on a closed garden and extra space.
After a long day out, there is little more relaxing than unwinding in the cosy lounges
with a cup of tea, a snack, or a cocktail at the bar. For indulgent ‘me’ time, the Spa
Guerlain is nestled beneath the 13th-century vaults, housing two intimate treatment
rooms, Jacuzzi, sauna and an exercise room. The spa menu isn’t extensive, but covers
essential pampering needs from massages and facials to waxing and mani-pedis.
www.relais-christine.com

The leading event for spa
executives across the globe
The World Spa & Wellness Convention returns
on 25-26 February 2018 to ExCeL London
SPONSORED BY:
Taking place at:

Find out more information at
www.worldspawellness.com/convention
LightBites
Farmer’s Cafe, Mumbai

Healthy weekday lunches can be dull, with blah greens and bland sandwiches. But a new spot in Pali Hill Bandra,
Mumbai injects life into wholesome offerings. Farmer’s Cafe, Mumbai takes pride in incorporating superfoods in
its menu, all without mention of the word ‘salad’.
Fuel up with the Body Booster, a combination of coconut milk, coriander and ginger or sink your teeth into
the All Day Breakfast section which offers everything from eggs benedict and akuri eggs to a vegan tofu akuri,
breakfast tartines with nutritious toppings and a savoury farmer’s pancake served with vegan cilantro mayonnaise.
For something more substantial, pizzas here are guilt-free, made with a whole-wheat base, organic cheese
and sport whimsical names. The High School Pizza is topped with a trio of skim cheeses, sundried tomatoes and
jalapenos for a spicy kick; Just Kale It comes with roasted sweet potatoes and, of course, the leafy green; while the Thai
Farmer combines herbed tofu, bell peppers, broccoli, carrots and peanut sauce. Meat eaters can opt for the English
Breakfast Pizza with eggs, or the Vitamin Sea with smoked salmon, roasted bell peppers and caramelised onions.
Vegans with a sweet tooth are in for a treat as desserts here are gluten-free and made using organic jaggery:
the skinny chocolate cake, chocolate almond pudding and farmer’s rice pudding are favourites.
www.facebook.com/farmerscafeindia

COMING SOON
AsiaSpa’s January/February 2018
THE ‘I DO’ ISSUE
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Luxury – Travel – Wellness www.asiaspa.com

BucketList
THE ULTIMATE INDULGENCE
Aman Sveti Stefan

Situated at the heart of Montenegro’s sun-drenched coastline, the fortified island of Sveti Stefan is perhaps one of its
most iconic images. The restored village lies across the bay from Villa Miločer, a former royal retreat, and features
80 acres of grounds, two kilometres of beaches and a standalone Aman Spa. Should you be compelled to explore
further, the property is a short drive or sail away from the ancient town of Budva and UNESCO-protected Bay of Kotor.
But given its beautifully restored 50 rooms, cottages and suites feature hand-rendered stucco, stone and local oak,
keeping with the village’s rustic legacy, with views of the sea or gardens – it’s likely you won’t feel the need to leave
at all. You can also stay at 19th-century Villa Miločer on the mainland, a residence home to six suites, with another
two in a separate building, surrounded by 800 olive trees, ancient pine and cedar forests.
All-day dining is available at Villa Miločer at its dining room and wisteria-draped loggia, but the estate is filled with
intimate eateries with menus that celebrate local culinary heritage. On the main island, have breakfast or an evening
bite in the picturesque piazza. For fine dining, Aman Signature is your best option. If you’re lucky, you may even be
treated to a firework display from one of the neighbouring beaches, popular for private events.
There’s no shortage of paradisal beaches. Nearest is the 170m stretch of pink-pebble Sveti Stefan Beach. Further
along, set beneath Villa Miločer is the 280m King’s Beach. But our favourite is the 130m secluded Queen’s Beach,
exclusive to Aman guests, in a charming lagoon known to be one of the Adriatic’s most stunning spots.
www.aman.com

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46 Behind The Scenes

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164 Bucket List

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