Maggie Tulliver
As one of Thailand's most serene holiday hubs Chiang Rai in the Golden Triangle is also a spa heaven for the masses. Here are some of the signature spa experiences available through its best spas.
Often described as one of the most intriguing spa experiences available in Chiang Rai a rice scrub is no ordinary body scrub session. Employing one of Asia's most treasured commodities a rice scrub involves polishing and exfoliating the skin with the use of rice oil which is known to be rich in minerals. Sugar is also infused in to the scrubbing mixture as it contains vitamin E and C. The 45 minute long session leaves one's skin feeling luxuriant and soft with noticeable improvements in the tone and appearance of skin cells.
Available only in Chiang Rai hotels such as the Anantara Golden Triangle and other resorts by the Anantara Group the Culture of Anantara is another one of kind spa experience available in the holiday hub. Beginning with an aromatherapy aided massage the 160 minute treatment employs both massage and acupressure methodologies to infuse natural oils to the core of the skin. This is followed by a honey, banana, pumpkin and brown sugar body wrap which moisturizes the skin cells within and leaves one rejuvenated and youthful in both body and spirit. A sensual bath completes the treatment which is specially designed to improve the skin's vitality.
A popular treatment option among seasoned spa goers in based in Chiang Rai hotels is of course the Black Mud Body Mask. The 45 minutes treatment session is ideal for those with dry skin as the black mud moisturizes the pores to create a barrier against environmental factors draining the skin of its moisture. Leaving one's skin supple and soft the mud body mask also leaves an aromatic scent on the spa patrons.
Another staple at Anantara spas the 200 minute spa experience incorporates the healing properties of ginger and other spices to combat a variety of aches and pains both internally and externally. Dubbed as a "Poo Ley" ritual the traditional scrub, massage and wrap kicks off with a floral foot treatment before proceeding to a full body scrub. Showers are taken in between the various stages of the Lanna Experience which is known to aid sufferers of respiratory illnesses, inflammation and digestion. Those suffering from common aches and pains can also benefit from this cleansing ritual which aims to heal the body from within.
A signature spa experience available through most reputable spa facilities in Chiang Rai, a Thai herbal scrub is a 45 minute encounter with a variety of traditional Thai herbs that promotes good blood circulation as well as improving the skin's elasticity. Exfoliating dead skin cells and hydrating the body using a plethora of herbs the body scrub provides patrons with a glowing skin, soft to the touch.
Available at Anantara Spa facilities in Chiang Rai the Journey of Siam is a series of luxurious wellness promoting spa treatments that uses both herbal and natural elements to promote good health and beauty. Starting with the customary flower infused foot ritual the journey begins in earnest with a Thai herbal steam and is followed by an essence of coconut scrub and is completed with a royal Thai massage.
