Simply Abu Dhabi XXXV

T o indulge in the top notch Thai spa retreat is best described as a complete mental, food and energy overhaul. Yet, the exquisite destination spa should not be named in the same class as an overhaul. The unequivocal empress of spas can only be mentioned in a sentence filled with elegance and zen-like wording. This is Chiva Som after all. Nestled on the shores of the Gulf Thailand, this award-winning destination spa should be a on everybody’s to-do list – for all the right reasons. Over the past two and a half decades, Chiva Som has established itself as a first-class rejuvenation retreat. Here, kicking off your high heels in exchange for soft slippers comes naturally. With a reboot of the retreat’s own decor and functionality of spaces, it has magically done what it promises others – a full transformation. And it surely has made the philosophy of Chiva Som even more appealing. At Chiva Som your lifestyle and life story are the inspirations for a tailored and targeted experience – guided by the health practitioners and its friendly staff. The resident health practitioners come from all over the world to host and share a wide range of skills and knowledge, from naturopathic medicine to chakra healing. Each specialist comes together, united in a belief for betterment, to create a truly holistic retreat for guests alike. With the initiative of many generations to live life to the fullest in the best shape and health, the renovation has given many even more reasons to visit (and return). Your wellness programme will be designed with six elements in mind; from holistic therapy, spa, psychotherapy, nutrition to fitness and along aesthetic beauty – if one pleases. The new fitness centre – with the latest trends in fitness equipment placed spaciously on the springy floors – adds to the high class treatments, health ethic and undeniable no-nonsense low impact fitness routines. Add to it the new EMS system making exercising gentle on the joints due to electric muscle stimulation, where muscles contract, condition and strengthen without any high impact movements. The atmosphere switches to the renovated Orchid Lounge, which now is a zen haven with soft sofas, mosaic mirrored walls and of course blooming white orchids. The last of the 54 bedrooms have also been transformed into light, contemporary havens, with sustainable teak and bamboo finishes. Now, almost a year after the initial renovation phase, Chiva-Som is looking way ahead and is undoubtedly future proof. Its loyal (and latest) fanbase will have all the more reason to book ahead for a visit. With this renovation of the already amazing Chiva Som, the future will hold evenmore of the high class treatments, sophisticated cuisine and finest spa services. During your stay, staff is pleasantly aware of your progress, motivating new daily routines and making sure nothing is left unnoticed – in the best way possible. Its feels like your progress is a team effort, even though your experience will be celebrated as a personal triumph. Some things have left unchanged – fortunately. Initially you might pout at the thought of the low-calorie intake per day. However, as in Chiva Somwords “nutrition should be viewed as a foundation of health as well as a source of pleasure”. Eating food that seduces the senses and at the same time satisfies hunger in the knowledge that every intake is contributing to your body’s incredible natural healing process, makes all the calorie counting worthwhile. Besides, after the initial shock, being surprised by yummylicious buckwheat pancakes for breakfast and the most divine fresh ingredients, is all you need to keep a smile on your face – and a forever lifestyle change. www.chivasom.com