Born in India, Rajul moved to Israel when she was only 19-years-old, studied arts at the prestigious Midrashah in Ramat Hasharon and traded her cultural roots for a more westernized experience.

Ironically, it was her move away from her traditions that allowed her to see it from another perspective. In her first ever solo exhibition in Singapore, Bollywood represents her version of India. With inspirations from Bollywood films, she depicts the fate of mythic and tragic characters, relationships of love, betrayal, devotion and fidelity and the epic and impossible battles of the generation gap through her distinctive painting style. Rajul’s brush stroke comes from a hint of comforting memory, of a past she once knew—an India that mattered most to her heart. “My inspiration behind ‘Bollywood’ is the excitement Indians all around the world get when they see the glamor, happiness, and perfection in most of these movies,” says Rajul. “As an Indian woman, I feel it is one way I have stayed in touch with my culture.”

Rajul also feels that most Bollywood films portray a perfect love story and offer the audience a positive and optimistic idea of life. “I feel like this has impacted my belief of the future,” she added.

In her work "Breathless," an image of a woman’s face is painted with her golden locks glamorously flying over her face and capturing the audience with her intense gaze. “It's a picture which leaves you breathless ... a feeling of larger than life,” says Rajul. “What I love is the freedom of colors, the dripping of paint, the spontaneity, and capturing the moment right then and there. I would say a lot of woman in India dream about them.”

“Her paintings convey the rapture and enthusiasm of mass consumer culture,” says New York gallerist Paul Rodgers. “Ultimately, it is this blend of personal exoticism with the common currency of international contemporary art which endows Mehta’s paintings with particular poignancy.”

“Bollywood” is on Apr 21-24 at The Arts House, 1 Old Parliament Lane, 6336-3386. Free.

The buzz: This bigboy was the official luxury mobile partner at the recent Men’s Fashion Week, rubbing sapphire keypads with the fashion elite.

The vibe: It’s located at Marina Bay Sands, so don’t expect it to be just another mobile phone store. Far from the colorful, candy-land industry standard set by other brands, stepping into the space is akin to entering a sophisticated spy movie set. The phones are presented in brightly-lit glass cabinets along with displays set against a luxe silver, brown and black palette. Though all glam, it still does its part for the environment by using low energy LED and halogen lights. It’s James Bond meets Bono.

The goods: Displays highlight its Signature, Ascent and Constellation collections. Renowned for fusing style, technology and functionality, the phones are treats for your eyes if not for your wallets. The latest collection, Constellation Quest, goes for $9,900 to $35,000 a piece, which includes one made of yellow gold and sporting a sapphire keypad. Stylish pens are on offer too.

Why you’ll be back: The phones. Prices may be exorbitant but they’re the epitome of the high life.

#B1-91/-92 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bayfront Ave., 6688-7887. Open Daily 10am-11pm.

The buzz: 3,900 sq. ft. worth of Americana fashion goodness at the up-and-coming Knightsbridge.

The vibe: Two floors imbued with Tommy Hilfiger’s signature design elements such as the use of vintage posters, iconic New York landscape posters and references to the American flag in shades of red, white and blue. Oak herringbone carpet flooring also create a rustic look, with bright Persian carpets thrown in for a nice contrast.

The goods: For easy shopping and browsing, menswear are stocked on the ground floor while the women can get their fix upstairs. Go for the trademark Yacht Club pieces with a navy, classic feel available in mainly white and red spanning parkas, shirts and peacoats. But if contemporary preppy is more your thing, go for the Blues collection (our personal favorite), including knitwear pieces like the jersey Henley and shirts with sheer, tonal stripes made from chambray. The fine-striped boy shorts and seersucker blazer are also signature items.

Why you’ll be back: Because classics never die.

#01-09 Knightsbridge, 270 Orchard Rd., 6733-8432. Open daily 10am-10pm.

Just when you thought your bulging bellies could take a break after the inaugural Asian Masters in Jan, followed swiftly by Restaurant Week last month, the next big food event is all set to hit our shores. 2011’s World Gourmet Summit (WGS) rolls around from Apr 25-May 8. This annual epicurean festival needs little introduction, and brings to town celebrated chefs from all over the world, as well as internationally-acclaimed vintners. But what do those involved actually think?

Ryan Clift, chef and co-owner of Tippling Club (8D Dempsey Rd., 6475-2217), feels, “Every country should have a big food festival; it’s important for the industry and general public. Plus, it adds a new dimension to the city for two weeks. You’ve got some big name chefs who come to town. If you haven’t got the chance to travel and try their food, it’s great.” We certainly agree. The existence of festivals such as WGS still inspires confidence in the dining landscape of Singapore (ignore the protests of jaded food critics), and offers an even broader range of cuisines and experiences than what is usually available. If you’re a true gourmand (all our favorite people certainly are), you’ll want to attend everything. But unless you’ve got deep pockets and a whole lot of time, it’s probably wiser to stick to a few choice events.

While there’s no doubt that the novelty of WGS has worn off since its launch (they’re in their 15th year after all), there’s still a good deal of anticipation from foodies about the announcement of the chef line up. This installment of the popular food event will see culinary heavyweights such as three-Michelin-starred Bruno Ménard and Luisa Valazza; two-Michelin-starred Norbert Niederkofler, Ramón Freixa and Kevin Thornton; Paul Wilson (three chef’s hats) and Brent Savage (two chef’s hats) stopping by our tiny isle and crafting indulgent gourmet creations for your hedonistic epicurean pleasure. That’s not all. There will also be a number of culinary workshops, as well as wine dinners and tasting events for you to choose from.

Despite its roaring commercial success, it’s heartening to discover that several visiting chefs aren’t just included on a purely business basis. A few actually have long-standing, ongoing friendships with hosting chefs.

Case in point: Chef Rosio Sanchez of noma and Janice Wong, hosting chef-owner of 2am:dessertbar (2/F, 21A Lorong Liput, 6291-9727). “I had met Janice a few years before back at WD-50 in NYC, and thought the idea sounded like something I would like to participate in,” says Sanchez. Janice’s admiration and respect for Rosio is clearly evident. “I think her style is unique, so I really wanted to bring her here to showcase that.” The sweet-toothed should check out Rosio Sanchez’s unique creations from May 3-7 at 2am:dessertbar ($25 per dessert, $90 for four-course degustation), featuring winter’s version bitters dessert (whey discs, bitters syrup, milk crumbs and sorrel), huldreost brown cheese custard with beet granite, and milk and grains (milk ice cream, birch syrup and biodynamic grains).

Another collaborative partnership is that of Tippling Club’s Ryan Clift and Bentley Restaurant & Bar’s Brent Savage. “This year, as always, I’ve brought a chef, Brent Savage, with a similar style to what we do here. We always approach chefs ourselves as we steer towards the avant-garde, progressive side of things,“ he says. “In fact, Brent was actually my competition back in Melbourne. But that was a long time ago.” Savage has fashioned a seven-course menu with wine pairing ($230) from Apr 26-30 at Tippling Club, that features ocean trout with ocean trout mousse and fennel pollen, pork belly with wattleseed, garlic milk and rhubarb, and roasted duck breast with cuttlefish and mushrooms.

Aside from several hard-to-find food items, all these chefs are keen to source for produce locally. In a bid to introduce different flavor profiles to diners here, Savage will only be bringing wattleseed (which is native to Australia), while Sanchez is packing dry goods like birch syrup, biodynamic grains, and Norwegian brown cheese. One-Michelin-starred masterchef Tam Kwok Fung, whose modern Chinese culinary style is centered around the philosophy of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), meanwhile is confident he’ll be able to find the ingredients he needs for Weingut Markus Molitor Wine Dinner on Apr 27 (from $228) hosted at Cassia (4/F Cappella Singapore, 1 The Knolls, Sentosa Island, 6591-5045): “I know Singapore as a world class gourmet destination and am sure everything I use can be sourced locally,” he says.

To reserve a space, call 6270-1254 or email [email protected]. For more details, log on to www.worldgourmetsummit.com.

Check out I-S Picks for WGS 2011

A steady stream of new eateries has been filling the shophouses of Upper Thomson Road over the last year, offering you more dining options this side of town. We nosy about the area and sniff out what’s worth your time.

Cotton Bleu
205 Upper Thomson Rd., 6252-5525.
Expect superb home-style French fare in a cozy ambiance at this three-month old establishment, which makes a choice spot for an intimate gathering. Their no-fuss menu of tapas ($8), starters ($12) and mains ($24) scored points with us. They’ve also got set meals for lunch and dinner. Try the scallops on rosemary skewers ($12) and rack of lamb ($24), and if you’re into vino, their wine list offers French, Australian and Chilean options.

Fatboy’s The Burger Bar
187 Upper Thomson Rd., 6252-8780.
One of the top burger joints in Singapore, it gets especially packed on weekends. We suggest American-style burgers like the Fat Basterd ($16) and Bolly Wooly ($11), handsome both in presentation and size.

La Petite Cuisine
227 Upper Thomson Rd., 6459-0553.
This is the second outlet of the popular eatery, known for unpretentious French food at affordable prices. This humble little restaurant serves up dishes such as tender dory fish with fragrant white wine sauce and butter rice for just $12.50. Other standouts include pan-fried foie gras paired with orange confit ($18) and duck confit served with French fries ($16.50)—the ultra crispy texture of the duck skin is just yum.

Old School Delights
215M Upper Thomson Rd., 6458-4518.
Truly old school, and truly delightful—stepping in makes you feel like you’ve been transported back to a simpler time with benches and chalkboards. Have a bowl of their much-raved about mee siam ($4.50) or try out their cakes, such as grandma’s butter cake ($2.80) and seriously dark chocolate cake ($4.20), while you sit back and reminisce about bygone times.

Our Bread Garden
229 Upper Thomson Rd., 6457-3318.
Hot selling local favorites like curry buns ($1.60) and otah buns ($1.80) can be found here. This bakery also prides itself on producing homemade bread with no preservatives, chemical additives or artificial essence—making this little hide-out a great place for no-fuss, healthy and very affordable afternoon tea.

Salted Caramel
246F Upper Thomson Rd., 9127-8716.
This three-week-old ice cream store may only have a few flavors on its menu but that’s good enough to keep us coming back for more. You obviously have to give their salted caramel a go but the rum and raisin is another standout, with its pleasantly sharp alcoholic taste balancing well with sweetness. It’s a mere $2.50 per scoop— talk about a steal.

Scoopz
222 Upper Thomson Rd., 6456-8698.
While their lime green décor could do with some improvement, their ice cream is a real winner. You can witness the “cooking” of the ice cream here—the mixture being whipped into shape with spatulas on an open counter. The shop owner claims this method reduces the air content in the ice cream and increases solidity, giving rise to slowermelting and chewier ice cream. We love the durian-flavored one, with a texture reminiscent of actual durian flesh. Other flavors worth a go are the avocado, rum and raisin and jackfruit. $2.90 per scoop.

Stevo’s Salads ‘n’ Such
215R Upper Thomson Rd., 6554-0636.
The rustic, laidback feel of Perth is what owner Stephen brings to you here. Their chili mussels ($10), complemented by a tasty sauce with tomato chunks, are delightfully succulent, and their extensive salad selection (from $6.50) includes unconventional options like apple coleslaw along with classics like Caesar salad. If you fancy spicy food, give their Buffalo wings heat challenge (from $8.50) a go.

The buzz: This is the first standalone boutique for the budget-friendly high street UK label, opening at the lush The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.

The vibe: The industrial-inspired floor of the 1,600 sq. ft. space sets the mood, making it one of the more accessible boutiques in the building. Merchandise is displayed in a mix-andmatch manner—shirts, pants, scarves and even hats are placed near to one another for an easy grab-and-go shopping experience—great if you’re seeking quick sartorial references.

The goods: Womenswear at the front, and menswear at the back of the store. While there are a plethora of blazers, blouses and dresses to browse, ladies should keep an eye out for more luxurious pieces like the studded orange see-through dress ($299) and pleated jumpsuits ($279). While guys can choose from a heady range of men’s polo tees ($99), basic black crew-neck T-shirts ($99) and denim hoodies ($169) that make great staples.

Why you’ll be back: If you’re looking for French-inspired chicness without having to blow your budget, it’s perfect.

#B2-112 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bayfront Ave., 6688-7253. Open Sun-Thu 10am-11pm; Fri-Sat 10am-midnight.

As much as we love Fall/Winter’s more austere colors and classic cuts, it’s fun to let loose once in a while. And there’s no better time than Spring/Summer to indulge in a little bit of color or print and a huge dollop of attitude with cheery, bold and sumptuous collections that will have you looking like a sartorial star in no time.

Jil Sander
#02-22 Hilton Shopping Gallery, 581 Orchard Rd., 6304-1353.
With Belgian designer Raf Simons at the helm, expect nothing less than a stellar collection fusing couture-like sentiments and luxurious fabrications topped with sensational colors. Dresses and full-length skirts come in colors so bright (neon pink, deep lime green and shocking orange, a first for the label), Sander’s trademark subtle hues have been literally thrown out the window. The cuts are equally compelling—voluminous pants that are as comfortable as they are striking, broken up occasionally by vertical and horizontal stripes with floral print for that touch of irreverence.

Dries Van Noten
#02-26 Hilton Shopping Gallery, 581 Orchard Rd., 6304-1355.
The ever reliable Dries van Noten works up another fashion storm with pieces that fuse glamor with a utilitarian twist. The colors and cuts may not be as show-offy as the rest of the selection here (think whites, pastels, nudes and monochromes), but look closer and the details will bowl you over. Subtle inclusions like Chinese porcelain motifs, peach sequins and flower prints are embedded in tunic tops and palazzo pants—all anchored beautifully by sophisticated shapes and cuts like Pagoda shoulders, high-waisted overalls and double breasted jackets that will put Lady Gaga to shame. Keep a look out for the Gradated pastel prints inspired by the work of Belgian artist Jeff Verheyen—these babies are certainly collectible.

Future Classics
A Curious Teepee, #02-24 Scape, 2 Orchard Link, 6820-1680.
Although less well-known than the rest of the labels featured here, Londonbased Future Classics (founded by Julie Wilkins) has been consistently churning out clever, deconstructed womenwear since 2000. Available for the first time here at lifestyle store A Curious Teepee, these “modern vintage” inspirations use only luxe materials—silk, cashmere and wool—and with blink-and-you’ll-miss’em details such as seams and facings that are left exposed. The silhouettes are avant-garde and feminine all at once, especially the semi-couture dresses and half-dresses (skirts and blouses) in bold, shocking pink and orange. Look no further for your next party outfit.

D&G
#01-21/02-11 ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, 6304-1366.
If you’re looking for a getup to the next tea party, D&G’s Spring/Summer selection is it. Inspired by English gardening outfits, the collection is a hodgepodge of flowery prints (featuring rose, hydrangea, freesia, violet and mimosa motifs) with Vichy patterns which permeate canvas dungarees, trousers, dresses, gowns and patent wedges. Summer has never looked breezier with these accessible and easy-to-wear finds.

Kate Spade
#01-23/24 Raffles City Shopping Centre, 252 North Bridge Rd., 6338-0969.
Equal parts resort and vintage wear, the ever effervescent Kate Spade ups its color palette further with a range of bags and ready-to-wear that will perk up your mood in no time. Rainbow hues and lime green leaf motifs are exactly what the style doctor prescribed for its ready-to-wear dresses. Coupled with inspired accessories featuring flamingo, palm tree and butterfly motifs—this is perfect stuff to bring out your outgoing demeanor (without trying too hard, that is).

A.P.C.
#02-28 Raffles Hotel Arcade, 328 North Bridge Rd., 6224-5502.
It’s not all about being OTT for OTT’s sake for Spring/Summer. For a more wearable and practical selection, head to A.P.C for the latest in contemporary French minimalism. But there’s a catch: You might still stand out from the crowd with its more neon-hued pieces—not necessarily a bad thing. Minute details like floral prints are still apparent in knee-length dresses, as well as baby blue and lime green sweaters, and fire-engine red pants that will have you looking like Sofia Coppola in a good mood. What more can you ask for?

As the old saying goes, the thing you need most after a holiday is another holiday. Far from being a time for relaxation, the modern vacation too often works like this: Wake up earlier than normal; plough through a brutal sightseeing itinerary; allow your suppressed gluttony and alcoholism to run riot. Enough already—there are plenty of regional escapes that focus solely on your well-being. Whether you seek enlightenment, beauty treatments, or if you need to get back in shape, you can be certain you’ll return from these resorts reinvigorated.

Get Fit

Help is at hand in your battle against the bulge.

Sharing Bali at Ayung Sari Indah
Singaprang, Bali, +62 817-4705-579, www.sharingbali.com

Set amid lush hills, rainforest and sprawling farmland, and both laid back and affordable, everything about Ayung Sari Indah is distinctly Balinese, from the stone and timber bungalows with grass roofs to its statue-filled gardens. There is a calming, village feel to the place—there are no TVs and guests are encouraged to dine together. Both group and solo bookings are available.
Programs on offer:
Sharing Bali’s series of six-day “fit in Bali” programs are tailored to get your fitness back on track where 6am jogging alarms have failed. The flagship Boot Camp Bali Style conducted by personal trainers shapes both body and mind, promising to leave you energized and refreshed. Jungle treks, a volcano climb and backroad biking might sound intense, but all fitness levels are catered for. You can look forward to healthy local fare, massages, yoga and spa sessions that will ease those aching muscles.
You’ll remember it for:
The views of Bali from up in the mountains, and being able to wear the clothes you want to wear once again.
Prices start at:
AU$1,095 ($1,425), everything included.
You might also like:
Ayana Resort and Spa (Jalan Karang Mas Sejahtera, Jimbaran, Bali, +62 361-702-222. www.ayanaresort.com), the official sponsor of the 2011 Bali International Traithlon and home to an Aquatonic Seawater Therapy Pool.

Rawai Muay Thai Camp
43/42 M.7 Soi Sai Yuan Rd., Rawai, Phuket +66 814-769-377, www.rawaimuaythai.com

If that beach training scene in Rocky III still plays in your head, you can finally act it out, Muay Thai style. Run by brothers Tuk, Li, Fin and Hehm, Rawai is one of southern Thailand’s most popular Muay Thai gyms. Known for its family atmosphere and dedicated coaching staff, Rawai opened its doors to foreign students in 2003.
Programs on offer:
A day here begins with a 7:30am run followed by Muay Thai training (sparring, pad work and technique development). The morning training session ends with weights, stretching or yoga and afternoon training follows lunch. Rawai recommends stays of between one and three months to get the best results, but as we aren’t all blessed with that much free time, they also offer daily training rates. However long you stay, you’ll not only leave with better fitness and combat skills; Rawai’s programs also help you detox and break bad habits like smoking.
You’ll remember it for:
Your own Rocky beach scene to boast about of course. And if anyone ever tries to cross you, they’re going down.
Prices start at:
Accommodation starts at B500 ($20) per night and training starts at B500 ($20) per day.
You might also like:
Tiger Muay Thai (7/6 Moo 5 Soi Tad-ied, Ao Chalong, Muang, Phuket, +66 (0)76-367-071, www.tigermuaythai.com), one of the biggest names in the Muay Thai and Mixed Martial Arts arenas. You might remember some of their fighters kicking ass at last year’s Martial Combat.

The Fitness Holiday Bootcamp
The Spa Resort Chiang Mai, 165 Moo 4 Huaysai, Mae Rim, Chiang Mai, www.fitnessholiday.net

The last time you were guaranteed eight to 16 pounds of weight-loss, it either involved pills, liposuction or compulsory military service. Founded by Louise and Richard Thomas, The Fitness Holiday promises to help you shed that weight amid the natural beauty and cultural wealth of northern Thailand.
Programs on offer:
The Fitness Holiday’s week-long Bootcamp is a morning-toevening holistic weight loss program. On top of the prerequisite physical activity (cardio, combat, cycling and Pilates), your journey will be aided by a delicious, low calorie menu, fat-burning sauna treatment, massage sessions and nutritional advice.
You’ll remember it for:
The sights, sounds and people of Chiang Mai (tours to the surrounding attractions are available), and the joy of not having to suck in your stomach anymore.
Prices start at:
B38,270 ($1,595), everything included.
You might also like:
Lamai Muay Thai Camp (82/2 Moo 3, Lamai Beach, Maret, Koh Samui, +66 (0)77-418-430, www.lamaimuaythaicamp.com), a dedicated Muay Thai gym with a just-opened cardio and weights facility.

Get Soul

Look after your mind and it'll look after you.

The Kandy Samadhi Centre
Kukul Oya Rd., Sri Lanka, +94 81-447-0925, www.thekandysamadhicentre.com

Samadhi—a Sanskrit term referring to a state of total meditation. A 50-minute drive from Kandy, this lush hideaway is nestled high up in the hills and offers almost total seclusion from the rest of the world; you won’t get a mobile signal up here. This isn’t a five-star retreat but a tranquil, templelike sanctuary with spacious verandahs, lotus ponds, herb gardens and artistic fixtures, with breathtaking views of the nearby hills and paddy fields.
Programs on offer:
The Centre specializes in ayurvedic treatment, particularly the Sherodhara Oil drip. Its ayurvedic consultant can also recommend the right diet and treatment for whatever ails you, be it an everyday condition, a disorder or a serious illness. Tours and nature walks to surrounding areas are available, as are barefoot shiatsu massage sessions. And we wager you’ll rethink your attitude towards vegetables after a meal here, as the ingredients for the exclusively vegetarian fare are picked fresh before each meal.
You’ll remember it for:
The morning mists, the tasty organic food, the stunning greenery and the feeling of absolute rejuvenation upon leaving the place.
Prices start at:
US$45 ($57) a night.
You might also like:
Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort (Samanthara Rd., Pothupitiya, +94 38 428-4996, www.ayurvedaresort.com)—yet another serene, lush niche on the south-western coast of this teardrop isle. The sparkling blue waters of the Indian Ocean are postcard perfect. Further afield and higher up in Bhutan, Uma Paro (Paro, +975 (8) 271-597, www.uma.paro.como.bz) is an incredible blend of luxury, nature and Himalayan Zen.

ONEWORLD retreats Kumara
Jl. Suweta, Banjar Sambahan, Ubud, Bali, +62 361-972-685, www.oneworldretreats.com/ubud_resort.php

Perched high above slopes of beautiful paddy fields, Bali’s artistic and cultural nerve center is a refreshing antithesis to the backpacker-laden towns to the south. The Kumara, as it’s fondly known, has 10 sophisticated rooms, verdant gardens, two pools and lots of nature-based fixtures, from gorges to a small river.
Programs on offer:
You can opt for packages that include yoga lessons for beginners, spa treatments ranging from massages to facials, and meditation classes. Meals are clean, fresh, organic and utterly delicious. Regulars who flock here annually describe this place as heaven on earth.
You’ll remember it for:
The ultimate detox, de-stress and rehab holiday. We’re not for flippant marketing catchphrases, but you’ll definitely leave this place “a new you.”
Prices start at:
US$117.60 ($148) per night.
You might also like:
Zen Resort Bali (Ds. Ume Anyar Seririt, Singaraja, +62 3629-3578)— away from the crowded southern parts of the island, it’s situated on the laidback northern coast. Zen touts itself as Bali’s “first integrated ayurveda, yoga and nature resort.”

Get Better

The path to wellness involves lots of lying back, soaking, sinking into things and being kneaded.

The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat
1 Persiaran Lagun Sunway 3, Ipoh, Perak, +60 (5) 210-7777, www.thebanjaran.com

This eco-friendly retreat spreads traditional Chinese, Malay and Indianesque treatments across its extensive menu. Just a two-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, within the Tambun mountain range, it’s surrounded by natural wonders. Banjaran’s villas offer three different bathing options—the rainforest shower, geothermal hot dipping pools and ice baths.
Programs on offer:
Programs last from three to 21 nights and include accommodation. Targeting those battling their biological clocks, the Longevity program features organic anti-ageing facials and body polishes, antioxidant restoration and a Pranayama Breathing session. The Rejuvenation program lets you enjoy organic rejuvenation facials, traditional Malay and Warm River Stone massages and a Reiki or Chakra Balancing treatment. For those who need inner and outer cleansing, the Detox program comes with organic detox facials, a nutrition consultation, a colonic hydrotherapy session and Chi Nei Tsang abdominal massages.
You’ll remember it for:
The KuuSh 24 Carat Gold Facial. Touted as the most powerful antiaging element, this ayurvedic treatment promises healthier, refreshed, more elastic skin through the removal of toxins. Gold diggers take note.
Prices start at:
RM1,800 ($750) a night.
You might also like:
The Datai, Langkawi (Jalan Teluk Datai, Pulau Langkawi, Kedah, +60 (4) 959-2500, www.ghmluxuryhotels.com) is another rainforest retreat specializing in massages, body polishes and bathing ceremonies with Balinese, Indian and Tibetan themes. Across in East Malaysia, Borneo Highlands Resort (Jalan Borneo Heights, Padawan, Kuching, Sarawak +60 (8) 257-7930, www.borneohighlands.com.my) is known for its treatments inspired by the native Bidayuh tribe.

Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary and Holistic Spa
102/9 Moo 3, Laem Set Rd., Na-Muang, Koh Samui, Suratthani, +66 (0)77-429-800, www.kamalaya.com

Away from the tourist bustle of Koh Samui and atop a secluded hill, accommodation options include rooms, suites and villas with private pools overlooking the open sea. The resort’s ethnic and rustic furnishings and statues of deities give it a real spiritual vibe.
Programs on offer:
Detox, yoga, stress and burnout management, fitness and weight control. The Kamalaya Personal Yoga Synergy program, a private session for both beginners and experts, is an obvious choice—it helps you master asana (physical posture), pranayama (breathing) and meditation. The three- to seven-night packages include accommodation, airport transfers, meals, usage of fitness facilities, a wellness consultation, Body Bio-Impedance Analysis, and Vital Essential Oil ayurvedic and Indian massages.
You’ll remember it for:
The Monks’ Cave. Contemplate on your boo-hoos and midlife crises in these silent chambers, where the monk Arjan Daeng, renowned for his ability to communicate with other life forms, once resided.
Prices start at:
B6,500 ($270) a night.
You might also like:
The Spa Resort Koh Samui (Lamai Beach, Koh Samui, Suratthani, +66 (0)77-230-855, www.thesparesorts.net), a rustic beachfront retreat hosting themed yoga programs.

The Farm at San Benito
119 Barangay Tipakan, Lipa City, Batangas, +63 2884- 8074, www.thefarm.com.ph

If you’re after the charm of a kampong stay, The Farm at San Benito won’t disappoint. Set against misty mountains, its suites and villas resemble the traditional rice barns and thatched-roof houses of the Philippines with a muster of roaming peacocks sealing the deal.
Programs on offer:
The prevention program promises better health, vitality, energy and longevity for guests. This four-night stint offers nutritional microscopy, colon hydrotherapy sessions, wheatgrass infusion therapy and kidney cleansing, coupled with spa treatments such as Hampol, Hilot massage, skin kayud and kawalag body detox—all of which utilize local herbs and methods. The package includes return airport transfers, accommodation, meals, holistic health consultation and activities such as yoga, meditation and Mandala flower arranging. Their vegan restaurant Alive! prepares food using dehydrators which lock in nutrients and enzymes usually destroyed by cooking.
You’ll remember it for:
The Chlorophyll Body Wrap. That green pigment is a powerful antioxidant which cleanses your lymphatic system and alkalinizes your body. It’s also an excuse to look like The Hulk.
Prices start at:
PHP7,000 ($200) a night.
You might also like:
Mandala Spa and Villas (Boracay Island, Malay Aklan, +63 362-885-858, www.mandalaspa.com)—situated on a private beach on Boracay Island, they offer three- to 14-day detox programs.

Chiva-Som
73/4 Petchkasem Rd., Hua Hin, Prachuab Khirikhan, +66 (0) 3253- 6536, www.chivasom.com

This retreat bagged six major industry awards in 2010 alone. Located on the Thai royals’ favorite beach Hua Hin, accommodation options include ocean view rooms, traditional pavilions and suites. It brings in renowned practitioners to conduct wellness classes and programs. The usage of cameras and other electronic devices outside the rooms isn’t allowed, so don’t even think of “checking in” on Facebook.
Programs on offer:
Their three- to 28-night packages feature holistic therapies, beauty services from the Niranlada Cosmetic Beauty center and the usage of water therapy suites on top of an impressive list of massages, facials and manipedis. If you stay longer, you’ll benefit from their crystal therapy, incorporating ancient art and modern energy techniques to balance the body’s chakra system.
You’ll remember it for:
Its exclusive treatments for men, such as the Volcanic Pumice Polish that revitalizes and hydrates tired skin. We’re glad someone finally got round to addressing men’s spa needs.
Prices start at:
B44,550 ($1,850), everything included.
You might also like:
Six Senses Sanctuary (32 Moo 5, Tambol Paklok, Amphur Thalang, Phuket, +66 76-371-400, www.sixsenses.com), another beachfront retreat featuring oriental spa services such as Chinese acupuncture, Taoist Chi Nei Tsang detox, full-body Shiatsu and foot acupressure.

COMO Shambhala Estate
Banjar Begawan, Desa Melinggih Kelod, Payangan, Gianyar, Bali, +62 361- 978-888, www.cse.como.bz

Sitting on the pristine hills of Ubud, COMO Shambhala Estate impresses guests with its dramatic surrounds of rice fields and the Ayung River Gorge. Rooms and suites echo elements of Javanese and Balinese tradition, each with a distinct personality.
Programs on offer:
Customized packages running the gamut of therapies, fitness, retreats and wellness, as well as tai chi, trekking and yoga. The estate’s Cleansing program incorporates good nutrition and daily elimination to keep the liver, bowels, kidney and skin in top-notch condition. Its three to seven-night packages include accommodation, meals, return airport transfers, wellness consultation, massages and cleansing treatments. Another favorite is the Javanese Royal Lulur Bath, a beauty ritual from the Royal Palaces of central Java.
You’ll remember it for:
Guinot Hydradermie Facial. Promising cell-repair and a radiant glow, it penetrates the skin with an electric current. One can only hope that the people who operate this thing know what they’re doing.
Prices start at:
US$535 ($675) a night.
You might also like:
The Golden Rock Retreat (Dusun Aas, Desa Bunutan, Abang, Karangasem, Bali, +62 828-9700-8592, www. theretreatbali.com) sits on Bali’s east coast and offers cleansing programs like Bio-Magnetic Resonance which realigns the body’s energy field