Published on April 17, 2019
Welcome to our third feature of Wellness in ASEAN, our blog series exploring the best resorts and spas around Southeast Asia to rejuvenate your well-being. Escape the stresses of modern life with a trip to sunshine-lands where the air is clean, nature is plentiful, and food is deliciously, fresh.
Cambodia
Balmy temperatures, rural landscapes, untouched islands, and warm Cambodian hospitality, are just a few highlights health-seekers have come to enjoy in this bountiful country. Boasting a rich cultural history and strong roots in Buddhism, Cambodia is fast-becoming a popular wellness destination with an ever-increasing choice of spas and resorts for visitors to choose from. Here are some of the best spots.
Song Saa Private Islands
For a luxurious escape to nature, Song Saa Private Islands near Sihanoukville, is the place to retreat. This sustainable eco-resort takes guests on a carefree journey into nature with mini sanctuaries dispersed amongst luscious scenery. The stunning private beach, carefully-designed wooden villas, and heavenly spa at this tropical oasis offers a totally immersive experience with nature. Enjoy a range of massages, scrubs, and facial treatments overlooking open sea-views, while relaxing to the soothing sounds of nearby rainforests.
Hariharalaya Yoga and Meditation Retreat
Offering an integrated yoga and meditation retreat in Siem Reap, Hariharalaya has earned itself a popular reputation amongst international guests. Nestled amongst gorgeous jungle gardens, the retreat is constructed using natural materials in traditional Cambodian style. Featuring a tree house, healing center, lounge pool, and arts and music room, there’s something to suit every taste. Select from meditation sessions, yoga classes, creative workshops, and community activities to embrace the present moment and connect with like-minded folk.
Mudita Spa
For those visiting Siem Reap to enjoy Angkor Wat amongst other ancient sites – a day spa offers the perfect addition to flexible travel plans. Popular spa house – Mudita Spa offers an extensive range of spa treatments and packages at its Khmer-themed premises. The herbal spa presents a range of revitalizing treatments including honey and coconut body treatments, energizing body scrubs, and traditional khmer body wraps. For soothing aromatherapy-based treatments, choose from flower blossom, ginger and four-hand massages.
If you’re looking for more adventure in your wellness journey, continue reading.
The Philippines
Just a few hours by flight from Cambodia, the Philippines offers adventure travelers amazing natural sights to experience. Boasting incredible beaches, infectious friendliness, and lively culture, there’s also kiteboarding, diving and mountain-trekking for those seeking activity-based experiences amongst nature.
From rustic retreats to luxury-style spa resorts, the Philippines offers a wealth of wellness options to suit all budgets and tastes.
Amanpulo
Located on Pamalican, a small island part of the Sulu archipelago in Palawan, magnificent health haven Amanpulo offers a sensational escape from the ordinary. Pure luxury in every sense, the stunning natural surrounds and beautifully-designed villas take guests on a journey into total bliss. The spa at Amanpulo is set high up in the hillside, above the treetops, offering guests unobstructed views of the turquoise sea and luscious wilderness. Here you can choose from a range of massages using locally-sourced natural ingredients, while soaking up the ambience of this tranquil haven.
Lotus Shores
If your idea of total escapism features yoga and surf at a farm-based retreat in lush green jungles, Lotus Shores on Siargao island is the place for you. Catering to the conscious traveler, there is a strong focus on mindfulness, yoga practice, and connecting with nature. With an on-site café providing plant-based foods, Lotus Shores creates a perfect sanctuary to detox, cleanse, and calm the senses. Offering a blend of tranquility and space for self-reflection, head to this nature-inspired place for total rejuvenation and calm.
The Farm at San Benito
For world-class spa services and personalized health programs, The Farm at San Benito in Batangas, has it all. Located in a former coffee and coconut plantation this retreat provides a wealth of health-optimization programs to promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Daily detoxes, pain management, stress relief, beauty, spa, and sports are just some of the services on offer. With a range of villas and terraces, there’s different styles of accommodation to choose from. For a truly holistic experience to de-stress and revitalize from the inside-out, The Farm at San Benito is the place to stay.
Thanks for joining our self-care seeking explorations. Have we tempted you to book your next getaway to Cambodia? Or perhaps the Philippines is more your thing. Let us know, we’d love to hear from you! Join more of our adventures next time, as we check out all the best retreats and spas in Singapore and Malaysia.
