by: Lucas Raven
Welcome to the age of wellness travel. After some two years of uncertainty and unease, people seem to be craving the serenity and healthy boost a wellness trip can provide. A recent survey from American Express found that 68% of world travelers are likely to plan their next trip around improving their well-being—and the travel industry is listening. In the past year or so, there’s been a slew of new wellness hotel and spa openings around the world, all of which answer our craving for rest and relaxation. Because who wouldn’t want to treat themselves to a little TLC after the “time” we’ve had? (That said, make sure to check travel restrictions and requirements well ahead of your trip.)
Here, the best new wellness destination to book this year, from a high-tech medical gym to energy healing, so you can start summer of 2022 off on the right (moisturized, tension-free) foot.
Though it’s hard to imagine not feeling amazing in Thailand, there hasn’t been a resort there specifically dedicated to the wellness cause that combines both western and eastern practices—until now. Enter, RAKxa Wellness and Medical Retreat.
Tucked away on Bang Krachao, a protected jungle-clad island on the Chao Praya River, known locally as the ‘Green Lung’ of Bangkok, RAKxa fully integrates advanced medical treatments with revered holistic therapies alongside renowned Thai hospitality, resulting in a world-class medical destination. RAKxa’s unique concept curates personalized one-to-fourteen day programs based on real results using cutting-edge technology. When I say cutting edge, I mean: having an in-house Scientific Wellness Clinic ( called VitalLife ) that houses internationally trained medical doctors who use a complete holistic approach to identify a picture of your health. With the help of ultra-advanced diagnostics, including genetic, hormone and micronutrient testing and preventative cancer screening, data is gathered and confidentially shared with doctors, healers, trainers, physiotherapists and nutritionists to create hyper-personalized programs. These are aimed at disease prevention, anti-aging, sleep enhancement, physical performance and therapies, and all are tailored to restore digestive balance and cognitive function. The clinic operates an array of modern technologies such as IV nutrient therapy, cryosauna, infrared sauna, light therapy and platelet-rich plasma therapy. Need I say more?
But vitamins peace and science are not the only healers here. RAKxa also has all sorts of incredible wellness facilities that harness the power of mind, body and earth, from an overwater meditation deck to an outdoor sound therapy oasis to a tailored wellness cuisine centered on you and your needs. They have genuine love for the freshest ingredients with great emphasis on their origins, the value of seasonality and the benefits of sustainable eating. The approach to food is guided by an anti-inflammatory philosophy and based on a deep understanding that gut and body imbalances are caused by the average modern diet. Yes, the food was delicious! This is the place we have all been waiting for.
Newly-opened this year, RAKxa is designed as a soothing balm to the soul through reconnecting with the body. A secluded private sanctuary, just 30 minutes from Bangkok, the 27-villa property is surrounded by elements of water, earth and air—through the freedom of space that it holds. So raw and unspoiled, the place itself will make you feel fresh and free just by standing there.
RAKxa in Thai means to cherish, to heal and to conserve, and this magic applies not only to the health of the guests, but also the health of the land it belongs. RAKxa has restored and repaired the ecosystem in an area of Bang Krachao that had been degraded and damaged over time. From planting thousands of local trees and flowers, soil regeneration, and waste clearance, to supporting local farmers and gardeners in organic farming methods, this sanctuary goes above and beyond.
Without a doubt, my new favorite destination. Hands down, 5 stars.
Discover RAKxa and their wellness programs: http://www.rakxawellness.com
