In need of an Asia wellness retreat to reset your chi? We don’t blame you. During these topsy-turvy few months, it’s more important than ever to carve out a little time to take care of yourself. Luckily, Kate Springer has a host of new hotels, spas and experiences across the region to provide ample opportunity to reset as we head into the last leg of the year.
Give Back in Nepal
Autumn is one of the best times to visit Nepal and I’m a firm believer that crisp, clean mountain air has the power to refresh your perspective and fill you with purpose. If it’s meaningful travel you’re after, look no further than The Pavilions Himalayas The Farm, which is located in the glorious foothills of Pokhara. This year alone, the remote retreat has sponsored eight students to attend not-for-profit FAB Hospitality School, free primary healthcare clinic to more than 600 residents, and a road-infrastructure project to connect local communities – all by donating a portion of hotel profits. Get in on the action with the new “Lifetime Experience” package, which includes two nights in a rustic-luxe villa (powered by renewable energy no less), a hands-on cooking class with students from FAB, visits to rural villages, a half-day tour to the Buddhist monastery of Matepani Gumba, a guided hike through the Himalayan foothills, a kayaking adventure – oh, and an Ayurvedic massage. It’s a lot to pack into three days but complimentary transfers should shave off some time.
Next Level Wellness in Guangzhou
Debuted last month, Rosewood Guangzhou is home to more than its fair share of superlatives. It’s not only the tallest five-star hotel in the world (stretching across the top 39 floors of the 108-story CTF Finance Centre), but also houses the world’s fastest elevator (at 21 meters per second), mainland China’s highest bar and restaurant (on the 107th floor)… the list goes on. But what I’m most excited about is Sense, A Rosewood Spa which is officially the largest hotel wellness space in the Greater Bay Area. Located on the 93rd and 94th floors, the comprehensive 2,628 square-metre space promises yoga studios, barre fitness classes, a 25-metre lap pool, gym, juice bar, healthy cuisine and enormous spa, not to mention nutrition consultations, personal training and physiotherapy. Who’s booking tickets on the next high-speed train?
rosewoodhotels.com/en/guangzhou
Feel the Breeze in Bali
Bali is a no-brainer when it comes to wellness getaways. The island has countless places to unblock your chakras and soothe your body – and one of my favourites just got even better. Alila Villas Uluwatu, set on the craggy southern cliffs, recently introduced a new slice of paradise dubbed the Cli Edge Spa Cabana. Oh yes, this is exactly what you’re picturing: sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, leaves rustling, waves crashing, and complete privacy. Choose from a menu of Alila’s all-natural spa treatments, including a signature 120-minute combo that kicks off with a foot ritual, followed by a Balinese massage, immersive sound bath and soothing eye treatment to ensure you’re as relaxed as can be.
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