Get a head start on your new year goals by booking a wellness getaway. At these amazing resorts, health and fitness are at the heart of it all.
Revivo Wellness Resort, Bali
Photo: Revivo Wellness Resort
If the lack of beauty rest has been taking a toll on your health, go straight for the Sleep Well Retreat at Revivo Wellness Resort, located amid the hills of south Bali and a lush teak tree forest. The goal of the three-day programme is to combat health imbalances, such as high blood pressure, poor blood circulation and stress that might be causing your sleep issues. Expect indulgent aromatic massages, ayurvedic treatment, coupled with relaxing hammock yoga, tai chi and breathing classes. Sip on detox beverages throughout the day and fuel up on nourishing grub prepared based on meal plans that expert nutritionists will design for you. By the end of the retreat, you’ll be returning home rejuvenated, well-rested and armed with useful tips to practice healthier sleeping habits.
(Also read: Stay in Shape at These Fitness Staycations in Singapore)
Banyan Tree Spa Sanctuary Phuket, Phuket
Photo: Banyan Tree Spa Sanctuary Phuket
If you seek a slower-paced retreat to counter the stressors of urban life, check into Banyan Tree Spa Sanctuary Phuket. Besides enjoying award-winning spa treatments in the privacy of your own villa, you’ll get to pick from 50 different fitness and wellness activities every week. Think Muay Thai combat, posture alignment classes, seaside treks and sound meditation sessions, plus expert tips on massage techniques to soothe weary muscles. For those who prefer a goal-oriented programme, the resort offers four curated itineraries including Balanced Fitness and Urban Detox. Alternatively, guests can get an in-depth consultation upon arrival for a customised recommendation.
The Sanchaya, Bintan
Photo: The Sanchaya
A mere 45-minute ferry ride from Singapore, The Sanchaya in Bintan is a slice of paradise for anyone looking to disconnect from the world and renew their mind, body and soul. Take in stunning views of the azure-blue ocean as you flow through your asanas at the beachside yoga pavilion or pick up basic archery skills on the perfectly manicured lawn. What’s unique to this luxury resort is a series of residencies that includes fitspirational personal trainers who will host complimentary talks and classes for in-house guests. From Jan 7 to 14, be prepared for an itinerary of sweaty morning HIIT workouts and afternoon stretching sessions with pilates expert Rosie Gregory.
(Also read: 3 Diet-Friendly Staycation Spots in Singapore For A Healthy Getaway)
Como Uma Canggu, Bali
Photo: Como Uma Canggu
Regardless of your fitness level, you’ll have no issues filling your day up with a variety of yoga, pilates reformer and TRX classes at Como Shambhala Retreat, the dedicated wellness centre at Como Uma Canggu in Bali. Take advantage of the stunning facilities by arranging for a private yoga class on the penthouse pool deck. Gym junkies will love the fully-equipped gym, which comes with Crossfit stations for those keen to amp up their workout with functional exercises. Fancy a customised workout to meet your fitness goals? On-site personal trainers are also available upon request.
Alila Villas Koh Russey, Cambodia
Photo: Alila Villas Koh Russey
Less than 15 minutes by speedboat from the Cambodian coast, the new Alila Villas Koh Russey checks out for the ultimate tranquil getaway. On the wellness front, you can bliss out on an extensive menu of spa treatments that incorporate local ingredients such as aloe vera, Khmer herbs and spices, and coconut oil. With a fully equipped gym and complimentary yoga and tai chi classes daily, you won’t have qualms about missing a workout. And if you’re up for an adventure off the private island, the hotel’s concierge can arrange for you to go highland trekking in the famous Bokor National Park.
(Also read: 5 Fitness and Wellness Retreats in Asia to Book in 2018)
The Siam Hotel, Bangkok
Sitting on the city side of Chaopraya River (the River of Kings) amidst three acres of lush green gardens, The Siam Hotel, which has 39 rooms, radiates an old school regal vibe with its elegant art deco and antiques. Surrounding the serene urban sanctuary are Bangkok’s historical and cultural palaces, temples, and museums. Not only can guests tuck into divine flavourful cuisine that packs a punch, but they can even take a stab at traditional Thai sport Muay Thai under the guidance of experienced trainers who will work with you one-on-one to tailor lessons based on your abilities and fitness levels. The gymnasium is touted as the first professionally equipped luxury Muay Thai facility in the capital
Kamalaya Koh Samui Wellness Sanctuary and Holistic Spa Resort, Koh Samui
Indulge in isolation and get your zen on. Nestled in a valley that overlooks Thailand’s southern coast, Kamalaya is an award-winning sanctuary and holistic spa. Its seven-night basic balance and revitalise programme – which includes wellness consultations, massages and meditation – is designed to relieve stress and prevent burnout. Recharge in comfort as even the most minimalist rooms at Kamalaya include air-conditioning, a stereo system, and personal yoga mats on request.
(Also Read: 10 Amazing Yoga Retreats to Add to Your Bucket List)
Park Hyatt Tokyo, Tokyo
Photo: Park Hyatt Tokyo
What better way to work out on vacation than 47 floors above the ground? The gymnasium and aerobics studio at Park Hyatt Tokyo give panoramic postcard-worthy views of the Tokyo cityscape and the sacred slopes of snow-peaked Mt. Fuji. The gym is equipped with LifeFitness weight training and fitness equipment, and you can get in touch with personal trainers for assistance with tailored fitness programmes if you don’t fancy doing repetitive laps in the pool solo.
Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains, Sydney
On the cusp of the dramatic Jamison Valley, UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park is no stranger to most fitness enthusiasts. And it’s easy to understand why, thanks to its breathtaking landscapes. Well, this hotel is right on the doorstep of some great running trails. Spend a few days in Sydney then make a break from the city scene a 90-minute drive west.
Riyad El Cadi, Morocco
Pocketed at the end of three cul-de-sacs in the heart of the Marrakech’s Medina (Old Town) and a mere 700 metres away from the lively square and marketplace Jamaa el-Fnaa, Riyad El Cadi consists of courtyards, staircases and corridors of seven traditional houses, which retain traditional Moroccan architecture. This hotel is the first to offer sightseeing tours for runners in the Moroccan king’s city Marrakech: a sightseeing tour combined with some light jogging. The tour spans 9.3km with a personal fitness coach familiar with the city’s cultural heartbeat. The trail passes through the main mosque of Marrakech, the 12th century Koutoubia, via the legendary Hotel La Mamounia to the calm oasis of the Agdal Gardens. Soak up the sights and work up an appetite? That certainly sounds like a winning formula to us.
A version of this article originally appeared on www.herworldplus.com. Additional reporting by Peh Yi Wen.
