In our fast-paced world, it can be very easy to push self-care and wellness to the side as something to be dealt with later. However, it’s important to take a break from the demands of our daily lives to refocus and recharge our mental batteries.
Professional Travel Advisor Michelle recently took the opportunity to have a break at the Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic Spa in Koh Samui, Thailand. Multi-award winning Kamalaya offers a ‘synergistic wellness experience to help people reconnect to life’s potential and achieve optimal wellbeing’.
Michelle’s review:
My journey began the moment I arrived at Koh Samui airport. I was welcomed with a comfortable, air-conditioned
ride, complete with delicious healthy snacks and refreshing cold water.
From the moment I drove into the resort, I felt enveloped in a holistic and calming atmosphere. Nestled on a private beach, away from the hustle and bustle of Koh Samui, the serene atmosphere of Kamalaya immediately put me at ease. My room was beautifully appointed, with options that included open bathrooms and stunning views. For those who preferred to skip the hills, a convenient buggy service was available.
As this was my first wellness retreat, I decided to fully immerse myself in the 5-day Embracing Change and Emotional Harmony program, paired with a detox diet—no coffee, dairy, meat, or sugars. Let me tell you, giving up coffee was a challenge! Thankfully, Kamalaya offered a detox coffee that surprisingly hit the spot!
The food was nothing short of scrumptious! With an extensive menu, I was never hungry; the hardest part was choosing what to indulge in. Each meal was a delightful experience—fresh, flavourful, and designed to nourish the body while detoxing.
This retreat was a total recharge and relaxation experience. I enjoyed fabulous massages and insightful sessions with an ex-monk mentor, learning the art of meditation and truly switching off. I also participated in Tai Chi and Qigong classes, which added to the sense of peace and balance.
Kamalaya is the ideal destination for solo travellers too! The communal dining table allowed me to connect with fascinating individuals from around the globe, making the experience even more enriching.
Reflecting on my experience, I realise how much I needed this time away. After some very challenging years, this retreat came at the perfect moment, teaching me to refocus and prioritise self-care. It’s vital for all of us to pause, be kind to ourselves and take the time to indulge in self-care.
Key information about Kamalaya:
Wellness programs:
Kamalaya offer a variety of programs grouped into five different categories:
Healthy Lifestyle with programs including fitness, yoga, weight management and sleep enhancement
Detox & Reset with different levels of detoxing programs
Stress & Burnout including balance and revitalise, sleep enhancement, and relax and renew
Cultivating Heart, Body and Spirit including the program Michelle completed and a resilience and immunity program
Longevity & Regeneration which is a complete wellness retreat for women’s health and wellbeing
The accommodation:
There are 76 rooms and villas to choose from, each sleeping a maximum of 2 or 3 travellers depending on the room type:
Hillside rooms with either garden or sea views
Suite with garden or sea views with some also including a private pool
Villas with garden or sea views. Some include a private pool and/or a beachfront location
A minimum 3 night stay applies with a minimum of 7 nights in peak season. First time visitors are required to book a minimum 3-night wellness program during their stay.
Food:
Kamalaya use fresh, seasonal and organic produce. There are two restaurants and a lounge for snacks and drinks in the afternoon and evening.
Other activities:
Weekly cooking class
Thai temple and teaching tour
Oolong tea sharing
Yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, meditation and other holistic fitness classes are available
A lap pool and leisure pool
Guestrooms have Wi-Fi but Kamalaya asks that digital devices are not used in the public areas (except e-readers).
Dress code:
Loose, casual and comfortable clothing with casual and comfortable sandals, shoes or sneakers.
How to get to Kamalaya:
You can fly to Koh Samui from Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong or Kuala Lumpur. It’s then a 45min drive to get to Kamalaya from Koh Samui airport.
If you’re considering a wellness getaway, Kamalaya should be at the top of your list. Michelle would be happy to assist you with enquiries or bookings. Contact Michelle here.