Thailand Health Spa

Health & Spa

Caring for body and mind

Why fly to Thailand when you have health care on your own doorstep? Well, long waiting lists, stressed-out nursing staff, overworked doctors, busy hospitals, exorbitant medical bills, and recovery time spent stuck in the confines of your own home, all make the prospect of medical treatment none to appealing. But a trip to Thailand can turn into one of the most positive experience of your lifetime. No matter where you are from, whichever facilities is chosen, whether contemplating a check-up, a major medical procedure or a revitalizing spa treatments, you will enjoy prompt attention, immaculate comfort, the services of highly professional staff, and friendly faces.

Leading-edge treatment

Home to Asia’s first internationally accredited health facility, Thailand’s ultra-new and modern hospitals are less than a decade old and feel more like luxury hotels catering to tourists, than places to treat the infirm. Thailand currently has over 400 private hospitals scattered throughout the kingdom. Most of these are staffed by western-trained doctors and specialists, thereby ensuring the best possible care. While standards are world-class, costs are far lower than those for comparable services in the US or Europe.

Popular procedures

It is not just curative medicine and check-ups that are available. Popular procedures include cardiac surgery, knee and hip replacement surgery, dialysis treatment, cosmetic surgery and treatment, oral surgery and dental treatment, and corrective eye surgery. Many leading hospitals also have specialized medical centers for cancer, ear nose and throat, neurosurgery, urology, diabetes, endocrinology, and all other key medical disciplines.

Pampering professionalism

Many visitors are overwhelmed by the tenderness given by Thailand’s care providers, claiming that their warmth and understanding was a valuable part in the treatment and speedy recovery. An online system makes it quick and easy to search for doctors, view their medical track-records and fix a meeting for a health vacation in Thailand.

Services at leading private hospitals include airport transfers, international insurance coordination, and fully-serviced rooms. There are also super-fast mobile medical services, including by helicopter and aircraft, while patient records can be swiftly obtained via the internet. As you reluctantly prepare yourself for your homeward departure, all your detailed medical records will be faultlessly complied and can either be presented to you as you leave, or forwarded to your GP back home.

Tropical convalescence

Whether you choose to breath in the fresh mountain air of the North, soak in the turquoise seawater that washes the white powder beaches along the southern and eastern coastline, explore the forested national parks that enrich the whole country, feast daily on delectable local cuisine, visit the country’s wealth of fabulous tourist attractions, golf at one of Thailand’s many internationally designed lush, green fairways, or just lay back, recuperating from your medical treatment will be speedy and thoroughly enjoyable. For the first time in your life you will think of health care as being a memorable experience!

Traditional healing in modern facilities

An increasing number of wellness facilities have turned to indigenous Thai folk wisdom and traditional Asian remedies in search of tried and true solutions to stress and illness. This realm of the experience incorporates Thai massage, meditation, tai chi, yoga, and acupuncture. The combination of modern and traditional, along with a level of care that tops many hospitals in the West, combine to create the most complete health packages available.

Thai massage and meditation

An established practice in spas and fitness centers everywhere, Thai massage combines yoga and acupressure techniques, manipulating the body’s internal energy using pressure points and yoga positions. It stretches the spine and pulls on joints to leave the body loose and relaxed, ultimately fostering flexibility and relieving tension. Wat Pho, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is the traditional center of learning for Thai massage techniques and intensive course are available for those wish to learn more about the techniques.

Meditation is a part of Thai life. It can be applied to daily life, aiding concentration and leading to a state of calm, no matter where the meditation is performed. Meditation teaching is widely available in Thailand for Thais and visitors alike, ranging from English language day classes in Bangkok through to intensive month-long courses at remote retreats in the provinces.

Alternative medicine

Instead of conventional medicine, many people turn to alternative forms of medicine such as Traditional Chinese Medicines and Ayurveda Medicine for prevention and treatment of diseases.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a 4,000-year-old Chinese healing technique using acupuncture, moxibustion, massage and Chinese herbal medicine to create balance of the body. It has become a popular option for all kinds of conditions, from pain disorders and PMS to paralysis and nausea. TCM treatment is available at major private hospitals and medical spas.

Ayurvedic treatments are now offered at several of the country’s top spas with Indian practitioners advising on how to apply the time-honored principles in healing and how to use them to make adjustments to lifestyle in order to maintain wellness. Treatments include massage, herbs, controlled breathing, yoga, meditation and diet.

Heavenly land of spas

A harmonious blend of cultural heritage and destination diversity has made Thailand an infinitely attractive spa destination. Spas themselves are aesthetically pleasing in Thai atmosphere with the welcome accorded by pleasant, smiling staffs and therapists at the first stage. Thai spas now compete on an equal footing with the cosmopolitan capitals of the world. Since 1999, they have figured in the world’s top five: The Oriental Bangkok, the Banyan Tree Phuket, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai and Amanpuri Phuket. Chiva-Som in Hua Hin was rated the world’s number one destination spa.

A typical Thai spa presents a choice of traditional Thai massage with Swedish, Javanese, and sports massage. Jet lag recovery treatment, aromatherapy, reflexology, foot massage are also on the list, with skin care treatments such as facials, mud and body wraps, scrubs, as well as acupressure, herbal steams, and floral baths. They are also developing their own lines of products that utilize the qualities of Thai herbs contributing to a renaissance of traditional Thai herbal recipes and ancient remedies prized for the healing power of their natural ingredients.


Caring for body and mind

Why fly to Thailand when you have health care on your own doorstep? Well, long waiting lists, stressed-out nursing staff, overworked doctors, busy hospitals, exorbitant medical bills, and recovery time spent stuck in the confines of your own home, all make the prospect of medical treatment none to appealing. But a trip to Thailand can turn into one of the most positive experience of your lifetime. No matter where you are from, whichever facilities is chosen, whether contemplating a check-up, a major medical procedure or a revitalizing spa treatments, you will enjoy prompt attention, immaculate comfort, the services of highly professional staff, and friendly faces.

Leading-edge treatment

Home to Asia’s first internationally accredited health facility, Thailand’s ultra-new and modern hospitals are less than a decade old and feel more like luxury hotels catering to tourists, than places to treat the infirm. Thailand currently has over 400 private hospitals scattered throughout the kingdom. Most of these are staffed by western-trained doctors and specialists, thereby ensuring the best possible care. While standards are world-class, costs are far lower than those for comparable services in the US or Europe.

Popular procedures

It is not just curative medicine and check-ups that are available. Popular procedures include cardiac surgery, knee and hip replacement surgery, dialysis treatment, cosmetic surgery and treatment, oral surgery and dental treatment, and corrective eye surgery. Many leading hospitals also have specialized medical centers for cancer, ear nose and throat, neurosurgery, urology, diabetes, endocrinology, and all other key medical disciplines.

Pampering professionalism

Many visitors are overwhelmed by the tenderness given by Thailand’s care providers, claiming that their warmth and understanding was a valuable part in the treatment and speedy recovery. An online system makes it quick and easy to search for doctors, view their medical track-records and fix a meeting for a health vacation in Thailand.

Services at leading private hospitals include airport transfers, international insurance coordination, and fully-serviced rooms. There are also super-fast mobile medical services, including by helicopter and aircraft, while patient records can be swiftly obtained via the internet. As you reluctantly prepare yourself for your homeward departure, all your detailed medical records will be faultlessly complied and can either be presented to you as you leave, or forwarded to your GP back home.

Tropical convalescence

Whether you choose to breath in the fresh mountain air of the North, soak in the turquoise seawater that washes the white powder beaches along the southern and eastern coastline, explore the forested national parks that enrich the whole country, feast daily on delectable local cuisine, visit the country’s wealth of fabulous tourist attractions, golf at one of Thailand’s many internationally designed lush, green fairways, or just lay back, recuperating from your medical treatment will be speedy and thoroughly enjoyable. For the first time in your life you will think of health care as being a memorable experience!

Traditional healing in modern facilities

An increasing number of wellness facilities have turned to indigenous Thai folk wisdom and traditional Asian remedies in search of tried and true solutions to stress and illness. This realm of the experience incorporates Thai massage, meditation, tai chi, yoga, and acupuncture. The combination of modern and traditional, along with a level of care that tops many hospitals in the West, combine to create the most complete health packages available.

Thai massage and meditation

An established practice in spas and fitness centers everywhere, Thai massage combines yoga and acupressure techniques, manipulating the body’s internal energy using pressure points and yoga positions. It stretches the spine and pulls on joints to leave the body loose and relaxed, ultimately fostering flexibility and relieving tension. Wat Pho, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is the traditional center of learning for Thai massage techniques and intensive course are available for those wish to learn more about the techniques.

Meditation is a part of Thai life. It can be applied to daily life, aiding concentration and leading to a state of calm, no matter where the meditation is performed. Meditation teaching is widely available in Thailand for Thais and visitors alike, ranging from English language day classes in Bangkok through to intensive month-long courses at remote retreats in the provinces.

Alternative medicine

Instead of conventional medicine, many people turn to alternative forms of medicine such as Traditional Chinese Medicines and Ayurveda Medicine for prevention and treatment of diseases.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a 4,000-year-old Chinese healing technique using acupuncture, moxibustion, massage and Chinese herbal medicine to create balance of the body. It has become a popular option for all kinds of conditions, from pain disorders and PMS to paralysis and nausea. TCM treatment is available at major private hospitals and medical spas.

Ayurvedic treatments are now offered at several of the country’s top spas with Indian practitioners advising on how to apply the time-honored principles in healing and how to use them to make adjustments to lifestyle in order to maintain wellness. Treatments include massage, herbs, controlled breathing, yoga, meditation and diet.

Heavenly land of spas

A harmonious blend of cultural heritage and destination diversity has made Thailand an infinitely attractive spa destination. Spas themselves are aesthetically pleasing in Thai atmosphere with the welcome accorded by pleasant, smiling staffs and therapists at the first stage. Thai spas now compete on an equal footing with the cosmopolitan capitals of the world. Since 1999, they have figured in the world’s top five: The Oriental Bangkok, the Banyan Tree Phuket, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai and Amanpuri Phuket. Chiva-Som in Hua Hin was rated the world’s number one destination spa.

A typical Thai spa presents a choice of traditional Thai massage with Swedish, Javanese, and sports massage. Jet lag recovery treatment, aromatherapy, reflexology, foot massage are also on the list, with skin care treatments such as facials, mud and body wraps, scrubs, as well as acupressure, herbal steams, and floral baths. They are also developing their own lines of products that utilize the qualities of Thai herbs contributing to a renaissance of traditional Thai herbal recipes and ancient remedies prized for the healing power of their natural ingredients.

Aromatherapy, commonly associated with complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), is the use of volatile liquid plant materials, known as essential oils (EOs), and other aromatic compounds from plants for the purpose of affecting a person's mood or health. Scientific research on the cause and effect of aromatherapy is limited, though at least some benefits, such as relaxation and clarity of mind, have been linked to aromatherapy.

The fact that aromatherapy is associated in some instances with Astrology, as well as a variety of alternative medical practices and spiritual beliefs requires that the term 'aromatherapy' be understood as at best a generic one, related to an eclectic set of practices and theories. It is also worth noting that the term has a particularly Western currency and persuasion, in general. This is not to say that systems of medical treatment involving aromatic scents do not exist outside of the West, but rather that those systems may or may not be intended by the term 'aromatherapy'.

Thailand Diving

Thailand Diving

Into the Blue World

The blue world of Thailand comprises 155,213 square miles of marine environment and includes over 500 islands in the Indo-Pacific region, the union between the Pacific Ocean – the largest ocean in the world, and the Indian Ocean – the smallest and most mysterious one. With ideal natural conditions, a temperature of 75 - 82 Fahrenheit and mineral supplementation from the mainland, Thailand has unique characteristics that are rarely found elsewhere.

Where to Dive?

North Andaman

The most beautiful underwater scenery and the most eclectic reef-dwelling marine life in Thailand are the two main reasons why the North Andaman region is a world-class dive site. Accessibility to Thailand diving is convenient, by means of the international airport in Phuket, which brings together divers from every corner of the world.

The underwater world of whale sharks, manta rays, marlin, coral reef fish, flying fish, dolphins, coral reefs, and underwater rocks and walls are amazing. Diving in Thailand can be achieved in a day trip. More serious divers may take a live-aboard trip, which will take you to dozens of dive sites over 4-5 days or more. Popular sites include:
# o Richelieu and Surin Islands – the world famous site for seeing the world’s biggest fish: Whale Shark
# o Ko Bon and Ko Ta Chai – the best site for seeing the world’s largest ray: Manta Ray
# o Similan Islands – the most beautiful dive sites with greatest diversity of marine life
# o Phi Phi Islands – one of the most famous wreck dives in the Indian Ocean
# o Hin Muang & Hin Daeng – the best wall dive sites in Thailand

The Gulf of Thailand – East

Closer to Bangkok, diving in this area is convenient since it saves travel time and money. Pattaya is ideal for a shipwreck dive. There are 3 shipwrecks in the area and the most famous is the Hardeep, a ship bombed during World War II. If you have more time, visit Ko Chang. Diving in Ko Chang is possible on the shallow coral reefs. To enjoy a more beautiful underwater environment, dive at the rocks located to the south of Ko Chang, such as Hin Sam Sao and Hin Look Bath. The area is open sea, and the visibility is better than any other part of the east. There are hard corals, sea whips, and a few species of soft corals. A greater diversity of fish can also be found here, especially reef fishes as well as larger pelagic fish such as barracuda, trevally, or even shark.

The Gulf of Thailand – West

The seas over here are clearer than in the rest of the gulf. The increasing diversity of marine life and the romantic atmosphere of the beaches and islands have propelled Chumphon and Ko Tao to the status of legends. Chumphon is a quiet seaside town with the most abundant growth of black corals in Thailand. North of Ko Pha-ngan is Ko Tao, renowned for its excellent coral reefs. Diving in Ko Tao is easy, fun, and you can see turtles, stingrays, barracuda, and reef sharks. There is a chance of encountering large creatures like the whale shark, manta ray, and potato cod.

When to Dive?

November to May is the season for diving in the Andaman Sea. If you would like to fully experience the tropical skies, sunlight and clear undisturbed waters, February to April is best. April to October is the dive season in the Gulf of Thailand. The best time is between August and September.

More Fun in the Blue World

With a variety of activities, you may not only enjoy diving but also a change of scenery by partaking in other Thailand activities such as golf, rock climbing, sea canoeing, relaxing on the beach, bird and animal watching in primitive moist evergreen forests on the islands, or even experience the local way of life of the Sea Gypsies, who have been living in the Andaman Sea for over a thousand years. Varieties of accommodations, tropical Thailand spas for relaxing and rejuvenating body and mind, and superb dining that includes the fresh seafood dishes for which Thailand is famous also add more fun in this blue world.

Mercedes Trophy Junior Golf Master Final

Mercedes Trophy Junior Golf Master Final

Mercedes Trophy Junior Golf Master Final
Venue : Green Valley Golf Course, Rayong Province
Date : June 2010

Detail
The Green World Championship is the only golf competition that pays balanced attention to sport ability and education. This international golf contest “The Mercedes Trophy Junior Golf Master Final”
is participated by more than 100 Thai and foreign golf players with the objectives to select the young Thai golfers with best score to partake in the Annual Teenson the Green World Championship PGA National Resort & Spa, Palm Beach, Florida, USA.

** The contents are subject to change without notice**

Roy Fest Phuket Music Festival : Full moon version

Roy Fest (Phuket Music Festival : Full moon version)

Date : 25 - 26 June 2010
Time : 18.00 pm - 02.00 am
Venue : Karon Beach, Phuket


“Roy” means enjoyable, fun and delicious in Southern Thai dialect. When combined with an international music festival, expect no less than days and nights of musical ecstasy and dancing paradise.

RoyFest brings the best of domestic & international DJs and artists together to perform on the stunning sight of Phuket sea view for the first time. With the objective of endorsing local tourism, to wide spread the beauty of Thai beach and a vision to locate Thailand as one of the top destinations on the world party map.

Expect uncompromising entertainment from Agnelli & Nelson (Eng), DJs Yoji (Japan), DJs Activa (Eng), DJs B (Zouk / Singapore), Tamone, Buddha Bless and many others who will contribute to “Roy”ness on Karon Beach, Phuket 25 - 26 June 2010.



Roy Fest (Phuket Music Festival : Full moon version)

Friday 25 June, 2010
18.00 - 19.00 pm Joe Fox (Ska)
19.00 - 20.00 pm Job2Do (Reggae)
20.00 - 21.00 pm Mahajamruen (Electro Live)
21.00 - 22.30 pm DJs Thanathron (Techno)
22.30 - 00.00 am DJs Activa (Electronica)
00.00 - 02.00 am DJs Agnelli and Nelson (Trance, Electronica)


Saturday 26 June, 2010
18.00 - 19.00 pm Tamone (Ska)
19.00 - 20.00 pm fourgusm Live Band (Reggae)
20.00 - 21.00 pm Bhuddha Bless (HipHop)
21.00 - 22.30 pm DJs Spydermonkee (Drum & Bass)
22.30 - 00.00 am DjB (Electronica)
00.00 - 02.00 am DJs Yogi (Trance, Electronica, Techno)

Phuket Film Festival

Phuket Film Festival
Date: 4 - 13 June, 2010


The 2nd edition of the Phuket Film Festival which runs June 4 – 13 on the beautiful resort island of Phuket, Thailand is pleased to announce its Opening Film will be the Asian premiere of Indian director Paresh Mokashi's debut film, Harishchchandrachi Factory. Director Mokashi will attend.

Opening Film
Asian premiere of Harishchchandrachi Factory
Harishchchandrachi Factory was India's entry to the 2010 Oscars in the Foreign Language Film category.

The quirky, light hearted film depicts the struggle of Dadasaheb Phalke, the father of Indian cinema, while making Raja Harishchandra in 1913, India's first feature film.

The movie is one of several Indian movies the Phuket Film Festival will play as it turns the Spotlight on Indian Films which have recently reached international box-office acclaim.

"We're honouring India not only as their cinema industry turns 100 years old but because of the close relationship between Indian filmmakers and Thailand," said Scott Rosenberg, managing director of AMW International Co. Ltd. organizers of the Phuket Film Festival.

In November '09 Thailand was presented with the top filming locations award at the Locations World Exhibition and Conference held in Mumbai while Indian location shoots and film production in Thailand have increased from 31 in 2003 to 104 in 2009 (end of November) outpacing the traditional number one Japanese filmmakers.

Film Festival movies will be shown at the Coliseum Cineplex in Phuket Town while a "Meet the Directors" series will be held at an open air theatre just now under construction at Cape Yamu.

Closing Film on June 13, 2010
YUTHLERT SIPPAPAK'S FRIDAY KILLER TO HAVE WORLD PREMIERE AT PHUKET FILM FESTIVAL

The Phuket Film Festival will screen acclaimed Thai director Yuthlert Sippapak's Friday Killer as its closing film, Sunday, June 13 2010. This will be a World Premier for director Sippapak's first movie in The Killers Trilogy.

Director, writer, and producer Yuthlert Sippapak has received international recognition for his daring visual style and unconventional screenwriting. His film credits include Killer Tattoo (2001), February (2003), and Buppah Rahtree (2003) which is one of Thailand’s highest grossing films, popular for its eccentric storyline and blend of horror with comedy.

Friday Killer is the story of “Pae Uzi” (comedian Suthep Pho-ngam) aka “The Eagle of Chantaburi”, a professional hit-man who was just set free from prison. After his release, he learns for the first time he has a daughter “Dao” (Ploy Jindachote – actress played lead role with William Hurt and Cary Elwes in the supernatural thriller 'Shadows'). The tables are turned on Pae when his daughter tries to kill him because she thinks that he killed the only father that she knew.

Cast and crew are expected to attend the closing movie and reception that will follow.

The Killers Trilogy is produced by Sippapak's Mahagan Pictures with financing from Phranakorn Film who is also handling international sales and domestic distribution.

The Phuket Film Festival runs June 4 – 13 on the beautiful international tourist destination of Phuket, Thailand. Movies will screen at the Coliseum Cineplex in Phuket Town while a Meet the Directors series of movies will run at The Yamu at Cape Yamu.

Award winning Hollywood directors Gus Van Sant (Milk) and Darnell Martin (Cadillac Records) are some of the directors participating in the Meet the Directors series.

Major supporters of the Phuket Film Festival include the Thai Ministry of Culture, Vijitt Resort, TwoVillas, Phuket Beer, Siam Winery, the Phuket Gazette, Global i Care and others.

For additional information contact:
E-mail: info@phuketfilmfestival.asia
Web site: www.phuketfilmfestival.asia