Nature’s Embrace: Find Renewal in Chiang Mai’s Embrace of Nature
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
“If everyday life feels like it’s spinning too fast and overwhelming that your mind and body are calling for a ‘reset’, it’s time to journey into the tranquil embrace of nature in Chiang Mai.” Take this three-days and two-nights Nature’s Embrace retreat to recharge your energy and restore balance in your life.
Begin your journey “with a soulful dining experience at Ekachan Ethnic Thai Cuisine, where rare and traditional Northern dishes are thoughtfully prepared using organic local ingredients.” Signature highlights include Jeaw Phak Pang sai Jin Som (Spicy Dip with Pickled Pork), Yam Som-O Miang Poo (Pomelo Salad with Crab Wrapped in Betel Leaves), or Kaeng Rawaeng Neua (Beef Curry with Aromatic Spices) all served in the atmosphere of a 150-year-old wooden Lanna house.
Next, journey to Lisu Lodge by Asian Oasis for a Forest Bathing experience, a mindful practice of connecting with nature by walking slowly or simply being still in the forest. “This is an experience that helps ease away the fatigue and stress while replacing them with deep, positive energy.” Stay overnight surrounded by rice fields and mountain views, while learning the culture of the Northern Thailand’s Lisu hill tribe including a heartwarming Circle Talk gathering where feelings are shared among participants.
In the next morning, you can explore the organic tea field at Araksa Tea Garden. “Learn about the art of cultivation to tea tasting as well as the types of tea that are globally awarded to celebrate their health benefits.” Complement the experience with tea-inspired culinary creations against the peaceful backdrop of rolling hills.
Then you can spend your afternoon restoring both body and mind at Aleenta Retreat Chiang Mai. Engage in a mindful art by crafting a traditional Tung Lanna (northen ceremonial flag). Afterwards, “unwind with a soothing treatment at the Ayurah Spa & Wellness Centre”, and conclude the day with a wholesome dinner at The Garden Restaurant, where premium ingredients are thoughtfully crafted into flavourful dishes that nourish your wellbeing.
As evening falls, retreat to Cross Chiang Mai Riverside, where Lanna-inspired architecture harmonizes with lush riverside landscapes. “Awaken to sunrise yoga by the Ping River, embracing the calm energy of the morning.”
On the final day, immerse yourself in local wisdom at Baan Noi Norn Muan, learning how to make herbal inhalers and compress balls using local herbs. For lunch, indulge in contemporary Thai flavours at BAAN Landai Fine Thai Cuisine, featuring creative dishes such as Laab Mamuang Suk Poo Kon (Spicy Ripe Mango Salad with Crab Meat), Phad Mee Boran Goong Tod Sauce Makham (Stir-fried Ancient-style Noodles with Tamarind Sauce and Crispy Prawns), and many more…
Continue your creative journey at Studio Naenna, where natural dyeing transforms fabrics into unique works of art with hues from indigo, jackfruit wood, and sappanwood. Before your farewell, delight in traditional Chiang Mai sweets at Chan Fong such as Kanom Wong (Thai-style doughnut), Kanom Hang Nhoo (Sticky Rice Flour Treat), and Kanom Lin Ma (Sesame Rice Cake) perfectly paired with a soothing glass of Roasted Rice Cracker Tea.
Contacts & Practical Information
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Ekachan Ethnic Thai Cuisine
Opening Hours: Daily 11:00–14:30 (Lunch) / 17:00–21:30 (Dinner)
Facebook: Ekachan Ethnic Thai Cuisine
Tel: +66 (0)97 962 6445
Lisu Lodge by Asian Oasis
For forest bathing and cultural activities, advance booking is required.
Website: https://www.asianoasis.com/lisulodge
Tel: +66 (0)83 540 9529
Araksa Tea Garden
Opening Hours: Daily 08:00–17:00
Website: https://www.araksatea.com
Tel: +66 (0)69 7286 1230
Ayurah Spa & Wellness Centre, Aleenta Retreat Chiang Mai
Opening Hours: Daily 09:00–19:00
Website: https://www.aleenta.com/chiang-mai/spa
Tel: +66 (0)52 090 333
The Garden, Aleenta Retreat Chiang Mai
Opening Hours: Daily 06:30–22:00
Website: https://www.aleenta.com/chiang-mai/dining/the-garden
Tel: +66 (0)52 090 333
Cross Chiang Mai Riverside
Open 24 hours
Website: https://www.crosschiangmairiverside.com
Tel: +66 (0)53 931 999
Baan Noi Norn Muan
For workshops and activities, advance booking is required.
Website: https://www.baannoinornmuan.com
Tel: +66 (0)81 362 8932
BAAN Landai Fine Thai Cuisine
Opening Hours: 11:00–16:00 (Lunch) / 17:00–22:00 (Dinner) Closed on Mondays
Website: https://www.baan-landai.com
Tel: +66 (0)65 848 4464
Studio Naenna
Opening Hours: Monday–Friday, 09:00–17:00
Website: https://studio-naenna.com
Tel: +66 (0)53 226 042
Chan Fong
Opening Hours: Daily 09:00–15:00
Facebook: Chan Fong
Tel: +66 (0)61 129 4228
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Wellness by the Waves: Relax to the Soothing Rhythm of the Andaman in Phuket and Phang Nga
Beyond its breathtaking beauty, the Andaman Sea holds a hidden power of healing within the rolling waves, soft sands, gentle breeze, and even the warmth of sunlight. Wellness by the Waves, a three-day, two-night journey in Phuket and Phang Nga, is more than a holiday. It is an immersion that soothes both body and mind with profound relaxation. The journey begins with a visit to Phuket Old Town, where the rich Peranakan architecture and cultural heritage have been carefully preserved through generations. A stop at The Charm Dining Gallery Phuket offers an authentic taste of local cuisine handed down over time, reinterpreted with a contemporary presentation—signature dishes Gaeng Poo Khai Ped (Crab Curry with Duck Egg), Moo Hong (Braised Pork Belly Phuket Style), and Pla Tao Ew (Soy-Braised Fish). Next comes relaxation with panoramic views of Cape Panwa at Amatara Welleisure Resort, where wellness experiences restore balance from within. “Sound Healing with Tibetan singing bowls guides you into deep tranquility, while Pranayama Breathing Therapy enhances oxygen flow, cultivating mindfulness and inner calm.” The day concludes with a fine dining experience at Senses Restaurant, where fresh ingredients are crafted into dishes that balance flavor and nutrition. On the second day, the journey continues in Phang Nga with lunch at Catch and Co., where the freshest daily catch from Phang Nga’s Sea is presented with refined preparation and creative flair. Guests can select from an array of premium seafood, including delicate Thai sashimi. Then continue your journey of relaxation at JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa, where QUAN Spa offers a full range of treatments. The highlight is the Signature Jade Stone Massage, which uses both hot and cold jade stones to relieve muscle tension, stimulate circulation, and reduce stress. The experience continues with “Mindful Mandela Art, a meditative practice of creating mandala patterns that foster focus, serenity, and inner balance amidst lush garden surroundings.” An exceptional evening follows at Nai Muang Restaurant, renowned for its distinctive Southern Thai cuisine. Signature dishes such as Gaeng Som Nai Mueang (Southern Sour Curry), Moo Pad Kapi Sataw (Stir-fried Pork with Shrimp Paste and Stink Beans), and Bai Liang Pad Khai (Stir-fried Melinjo Leaves with Egg). highlight the bold flavors of the South and the quality of local ingredients. The final morning leads to Memories Beach, home to “Ocean Therapy, a practice that harnesses the restorative power of the ocean through water activities.” As one of Thailand’s premier surfing spots, it helps release stress and strengthen both body and mind under the guidance of experienced instructors. The journey concludes with a memorable meal at Toh Daeng at Baan Ar Jor, a century-old Sino-Portuguese home transformed into a restaurant and museum. Local Hokkien-inspired dishes such as Gaeng Kua Motan Moo Yang Sai Ngo (Spicy Curry with Grilled Pork and Rambutan), and Pla Jian (Pan-fried Fish) are served, while the museum offers a glimpse into the heritage of the historic family estate. Contacts & Practical Information ━━━━━━━━━━━━👇━━━━━━━━━━━━ The Charm Dining Gallery Phuket Opening Hours: 11:00–22:00 (Closed on Wednesday) Facebook Page: The Charm Dining Gallery Phuket Tel: +66 (0) 76
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Fresh Breath Escape: Take a Breath of Fresh Air at Khao Yai – Saraburi
Sometimes, what the body craves most is simply to breathe in the crisp freshness of nature, to let the wind sweep away fatigue, and to embrace the renewing energy that restores balance. Fresh Breath Escape offers exactly that: a short yet fulfilling 2-day, 1-night wellness retreat amidst the lush valleys of Khao Yai–Saraburi, where pure air and serene landscapes invite you to rediscover lightness of being. Begin your journey with a light trek along the historic “200 Years of Thai–US Relations” trail in Khao Yai National Park. Wander beneath towering canopies, encounter diverse ecosystems in the lush Khao Yai Park… just the right dose of exercise. After this invigorating walk, recharge with a wholesome lunch at Gin Dee Organic Restaurant, where dishes such as crisp organic salads, Nam Prik Goong Sod (Fresh shrimp chili paste), and soothing herbal infusions are prepared with care from the freshest local farm ingredients. All enjoyed in a breezy, relaxing atmosphere. In the afternoon, check in “at Hansar Thai Wellness Khao Yai, where the philosophy of “Rest is Wellness” comes to life.” Replenish body and mind with the signature Aromatherapy Massage using natural essential oils, unwind in private onsen baths, and soothe tension in the sauna—all embraced by panoramic mountain views. As evening descends, savor the calm elegance of InterContinental Khao Yai Resort. “At Somying’s Kitchen, indulge in a Farm-to-Table dining experience featuring thoughtfully curated health-conscious menus.” Every plate showcases organically grown produce and supports local farmers. “Awaken the next morning with inspiration at Khao Yai Art Forest, a gallery seamlessly blending contemporary creativity with the timeless beauty of the surrounding forest.” Here, art and nature converge to evoke tranquility, reflection, and deep inner calm. Continue your journey with a riverside retreat at Jittang Permaculture Restaurant & Café, where farm-to-fork dining is elevated by the philosophy of permaculture. Relish wholesome Thai–Western fusion dishes such as Moo Krob Biodynamic (Biodynamic Crispy Pork), Kanom Jeen Sao Nam (Rice Noodles with Coconut Milk and Pineapple), Choo Chee Pla Nuea On (Spicy Fish Curry), and farm-fresh organic salads, each crafted with integrity and sustainability. “Conclude your wellness escape with an indulgent afternoon tea at The Harmony Library & Tearoom, The Soul Resort. The exquisite Silk Road Tea Set pairs premium blends with French pastries, served in an Oriental-inspired space infused with the soothing energy of chromotherapy hues.” It is the perfect finale before returning to daily life refreshed, rebalanced, and renewed with every breath Contacts & Practical Information ━━━━━━━━━━━━👇━━━━━━━━━━━━ 200 Years Thai–US Relations Trail, Khao Yai National Park Open: Daily 06:00–18:00 Website: khaoyainationalpark.com Tel: +66 (0) 86 092 6529 Gin Dee Organic Restaurant Open: Daily 11:00–20:00 Facebook: Gin-d Organic Tel: +66 (0) 62 594 6255 Hansar Thai Wellness Khao Yai Website: hansarhotels.com/khao-yai Tel: +66 (0) 62 432 0599 For Hansar Thai Wellness Spa (Open 10:00–18:00), advance reservation 3–7 days prior is required via website or Tel: +66 (0) 97 919 7633 Somying’s Kitchen, InterContinental Khao Yai Resort Open: Daily — Breakfast 07:00–11:00 / Lunch 12:00–15:00 / Dinner 18:00–22:00 Website: khaoyai.intercontinental.com/dining/somyings-kitchen Tel: +66 (0) 44 082 039 Advance reservation required for non-resident guests Khao Yai Art Forest Open: Thu–Fri 12:30–18:00 / Sat–Sun 10:00–18:00 Website: khaoyaiart.com Tel: +66 (0) 86 569
By Lifestyle+Travel
A Breath of Fresh Air at Dusit Central Park
A green oasis is rising in the heart of Bangkok. The Dusit Central Park project is redefining urban living with its innovative biophilic design that connects people, nature, and other living creatures. At the core of this transformation is Thailand's largest urban roof park, a lush green space that serves as a living bridge between the project's four main components: a luxury hotel, residential towers, a retail complex, and office buildings. Developed by Vimarn Suriya Company Limited, Dusit Central Park's roof park is a deliberate step toward creating a more sustainable and well-balanced urban environment. By integrating technology and thoughtful design, the developers aim to combat "Nature Deficit Disorder (NDD)," a term for the negative effects of a disconnect from the natural world. This expansive green sanctuary promises to enhance the well-being of residents and visitors alike, transforming Bangkok into a more resilient and livable city for everyone. Visit Dusit Central Park | Roof Park EP3 Biophilia and Ecosystem at: Youtube: https://youtu.be/lPgILEp9PGM Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1GqkmwdjgE/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMzEvdlMyFZ/?igsh=MW51dGF3NnNmM2N0bA== Website: https://dusitcentralpark.com/ You are also invited to join ‘The Landmark of Thai Pride: Roof Park Naming,’ a naming contest for Roof Park, which runs from today through August 15, 2025, via https://dusitcentralpark.com/roofparknamingcampaign. The prizes include airline tickets with accommodation at Dusit Thani Kyoto Hotel, Japan, for 3 days and 2 nights, and 5 honourable prizes of dining vouchers worth THB3,000 for Pavilion Restaurant at Dusit Thani Bangkok Hotel. Results will be announced through https://dusitcentralpark.com/roofparknamingcampaign.