It’s International Yoga Day on 21 June, the perfect time to plan your next luxury retreat, whether you’re a hardcore ascetic, an Ayurveda enthusiast or just looking to detox
For a meditative stay:
Nestled in a lush jungle, Kamalaya Koh Samui is a sprawling estate built around a former meditation cave for Buddhist monks. Fittingly, the site exudes an air of spirituality, especially when flowing streams and a sweeping view of the coast are thrown in. The wellness programmes provide plenty of options, whether you’re looking at tackling stress, restoring emotional balance or detoxifying, and elements such as traditional Chinese medicine and the ancient energy practice of qi gong also feature prominently. The comprehensive Optimal Fitness Programme includes personal training, private yoga, stretching, massage, meditation, physiotherapy sessions and more, as well as a choice of meals from the detox menu.
For something spa-focused:
With all-inclusive spa treatments included in room bookings (you’re guaranteed at least two treatments a day from the extensive spa menu), Fusion Maia Danang on My Khe Beach is where you can find peace, pampering and pummelling on your own schedule. You’re also allowed full access to the minimalist luxury resort’s dedicated spa and wellness facilities, such as the indoor yoga studio and private pool and waterfall, all set amid tropical gardens. There’s a daily programme of yoga, tai chi, qi gong and meditation (with the gorgeous beachfront views) which will help complement your mental and physical rejuvenation.
For personalised attention:
Located up in the hills near Ubud, Bali, and on the grounds of a peaceful jungle-festooned riverbank, this retreat puts you right in the thick of nature. If you’re looking for something specially tailored to your needs, go for the Bespoke programme where the resident health experts to come up with a personalised nutrition-driven diet, daily treatment plan and activity schedule. Besides one-on-one consultations, there’s also a personal assistant available for your needs and to keep you on track with your plan. You can also take advantage of daily complimentary classes such as Pilates, Hatha yoga, HIIT and hydrotherapy, as well as excursions including hiking and river rafting.
For a disciplined retreat:
With no electricity, air-conditioning, WiFi or en suite washrooms, this remote lantern-lit retreat in a secluded village forces residents to shed one’s reliance on material comforts, be present and focus on personal development. Your stay involves accommodation in simple huts with sparse furnishings (fresh sheets and mosquito nets are included but it’s twin sharing), healthy snacks and fresh vegetarian meals and the option of yoga classes which occur twice daily. Other than that, you have all the time in the world to read on a hammock, raft through backwaters, cycle through villages, indulge in one massage a week and do a guided forest walk – all included in the price you pay. You can also book yourself an Ayurveda treatment or participate in their weekly excursions, but these are at additional cost.
For ancient Indian practices:
The location of Ananda In The Himalayas has a lot to do with its spiritual appeal. It’s set in the foothills of the Himalayas, on an estate that includes a restored 19th-century maharaja’s palace. The idyllic resort has built up a reputation as an international authority on all things Ayurveda (as evidenced by its guest list of Hollywood and British royalty). Its Ayurvedic Rejuvenation Programme is a holistic plan that uses a panchakarma (a fivefold cleansing programme for the body and mind) approach along with complementary Ayurvedic treatments, a controlled diet and yoga to achieve balance, improve immunity, refresh your soul and promote glowing skin.
To learn more about Singapore Airlines flights, visit singaporeair.com.
