Issue 36

Embark on a journey of senses through the natural elements of water, air, earth and fire at the luxurious Barai spa in Hua Hin.

Long stretches of pristine white beach have been welcoming tourists to Hua Hin since the 1930s, after the Thai railway connected the coastal town to the capital. Today, hotels and resorts in Hua Hin have reached new heights with their world-class services to offer guests memorable experiences.

“The Barai spa is a journey of wellness, every single area has been carefully crafted by Lek Bunnag so guests leave the old world and enter a new world,” says Sammy Carolus, general manager of Hyatt Regency Hua Hin where the Barai Spa is housed.

Since its opening in 2007, the spa has received numerous awards including the Outstanding Performance for a Resort Spa in Thailand at the Thailand Tourism Awards 2013. Located on the longest stretch of beachfront property in the Khao Takiap area, the spa is as private and as close to nature as possible within the bustling beach town.

Walking into the Barai, guests are led through a tall, dark tunnel that leads to a wall of stars. Apsaras, or statues of angels, guard the corridors leading to the 18 airy treatment rooms. The Khmer-style architecture is reflected in the spa’s tranquil design and atmosphere.

Spa programmes ranging from herbal compresses, body wraps and massages to facial treatments are based on the four elements – water, air, earth and fire – combining the use of fresh Thai herbs and flowers with spa products.

“What is different here is that we offer the whole experience, addressing all six senses [sight, touch, taste, smell, sound and mind] through the spa’s ambience,” says Carolus, “The Barai ensures that guests are completely rejuvenated.”

Carolus reveals that half of the spa’s guest are Thai while the other half are from Germany, the UK or Scandinavian countries, with a large number of repeat customers.

“Most guests would choose the Barai Blend treatment programme, a mixture of Swedish massage, traditional Thai massage and aromatherapy, while the caviar facial treatment is also hugely popular. In the future we’re looking for ways to enhance the wellness experience such as bringing in in-house wellness consultants and offering salon services.”

The Barai, Hyatt Regency Hua Hin
91 Hua Hin – Khao Takiap Road, Hua Hin, Prachuab Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand
+66 3251 1234
www.thebarai.com

Words by Sirinuch Borsub