When you need a luxury retreat filled with healthy eating, exercise, spirituality and warm tropical weather, head to Kamalaya.
I had dreamed of visiting Thailand, and more recently I even thought of moving to the island of Samui. But time passed, and I ended up staying in North America. While traveling throughout Europe and the UAE, I was under the weather, and wanted and needed extra health support, so I decided to travel to Kamalaya, a luxury health and wellness resort on Koh Samui.
I did not have any expectations other than to feel better by the end of my stay. Before departure, I was contacted by a Naturopath about my intention and the support I would need. I chose the Comprehensive Balance & Revitalize Program.
The Arrival
Koh Samui is a short one hour flight from Bangkok. You will arrive in one of the cutest little airports.
Your wellness program will likely include transfer from the airport, so you will be whisked away as soon as you land in an air-conditioned and comfortable car. The resort is about a 45-minute drive to the south of the island.
Accommodations
As customary for me, I stayed in three different locations – two suites and one villa.
The first was a Suite with Sea View located near the welcome reception and restaurant. It was lovely; my only gripe was that it was dark and not as private since the restaurant was within earshot. Still, a beautiful sea view!
The second location I stayed was in a Garden View Villa, with a tiny sea view. However, the villa was incredible! I felt like I was sleeping in a tree house!
The third location was in one of their newer Superior Suites with Sea View, and that was my favorite! You can see photos here.
The Schedule
I arrived and had a Wellness Consultation with a Naturopath who sat and listened to my pain points and what I had hoped to accomplish while staying at Kamalaya. I was given an intensely packed schedule filled with a variety of treatments, along with daily herbal supplements and dietary suggestions for meals.
Following, I sat with a Nurse to have my stats recorded; weight, blood pressure, temperature, etc.
The schedule was carefully curated and intuitively arranged for what would hold the best outcome for my wellness program. If I wanted, I was able to add sessions a la carte or move sessions to a different time.
(By the way, there are a variety of Wellness Programs, as can be viewed on their website.)
A sample daily schedule included; A Traditional Asian Foot Massage for 60 minutes, Chi Nei Tsang for 30 minutes, Acupuncture for 60 minutes and meeting with a Life Enhancement Mentor.
I was blown away by the variety of treatments and quality of practitioners and service.
Also, there was time to lounge by the pool or beach, take fitness classes, schedule a day excursion, or just read a book in your room or one of the many places to relax. Make sure you check out the Art Studio and Gift Shop, too! There’s quite a lot to tempt you, and you might be okay with that once you review the goods they have on site!
Cuisine and Dining
You will not go hungry there! The wide and varied traditional Thai menu will delight your taste buds! There is something for everyone, no matter your dietary restrictions, they have you covered. Every night I tasted something different, and if you need a particular order, they will accommodate. There is also a Detox menu. You can order part of your meal plan or a la carte. A tasty and belly-filling experience!
Community Table
Every morning for breakfast and every night for dinner a Community Table was set for solo travelers, friends or couples who would like to meet other guests. It’s a wonderful option, and you have the opportunity to meet new friends, maybe a new love interest, and travelers from all over the world!
No-Phone Zone
As a suggestion, the team at Kamalaya requests you to leave your phone and laptop in your room and off for your entire stay. Your restful retreat is meant to be unencumbered by digital stimulation and interference. I found it to be quite rejuvenating to be at peace with my surroundings. You will too!
Staff
All the practitioners, from nurses, therapists, mentors, and visiting practitioners were all excellent. Some of the most skilled in their field, exist at Kamalaya. All the staff was exceptional, friendly and humorous.
Land
The resort is located on a steep hill. Be prepared to strengthen your legs and improve your cardio. 🙂
Don’t fret; There are golf carts to take you when you need a rest. With hills, come beautiful views though, and you won’t want to miss those!
One note of advice, if you are looking for a true beach resort, do not go in May, as the tide was low and made it difficult for swimming most of the time.
Also, as this is a tropical island, at the time I visited there were LOTS of mosquitoes. They did spray the resort grounds quite frequently, and still, be aware. You might even see millipedes in your room, but they will not bite.
Summary
At the end of my stay, which included an extension, I felt restored and supported for the next leg of my journey. This was an authentic luxury holistic center, health, and wellness resort, and I would not hesitate to return!
Although it is listed as a 4-star on many travel sites, I would easily classify Kamalaya as a 5-star. Do yourself a favor, and go!
Would you like to have a retreat at this beautiful and luxurious hotel? Contact me today to find out more!
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