KOH SAMUI, Thailand: Besides being known as a beach destination for its soft sand and clear waters, Koh Samui in the south-east coast of Thailand is fast becoming a spa destination. And it’s not just massages and scrubs being offered.

As tourists head to Samui to relax on its beaches, they also increase demand for retreats that offer extensive health programmes such as fasting, colon cleansing and detoxification.

According to a local guide, over 100 spas can be found on the 247 sq km island today, more than double the number five years ago.

A stalwart in the industry is the Natural Wing Health Spa and Resort set up 10 years ago. The spa offers detoxification programmes that range from five to 30 days with prices starting from 30,000 baht (S$1,280).

Customers are well taken care of. Upon check in, they get a medical check up and a specially drawn up daily routine that match their needs with the spa’s treatments. These include its signature chlorophyll sunbath and sand therapy, both of which take place in the open.

In the chlorophyll sunbath, coconut oil is smeared onto the skin to revitalise it. Large swathes of banana leaves are then used to cover the entire body. Aside from protecting the skin from UV rays, the leaves release chlorophyll, which, when absorbed by the body, helps to improve a person’s immune system.

In the sand therapy, customers are buried in a one-foot hole by the beach. The idea is that the weight of the sand will apply pressure on the body, thereby reducing aches and pains. To increase the weight of the sand blanket, staff will spray water on it. If the sand doesn’t eliminate all the body’s aches, it does, at the very least, have the effect of a scrub. Wash it off after the treatment and one will be left with shiny, smooth skin.

Another resort spa that offers detoxification programmes is Kamalaya Koh Samui. A seven-day treatment that includes a colon hydrotherapy is priced at 60,400 baht, excluding accommodation.

The highlight of the spa is its spiritual centre, a cave once used by monks to meditate in. It’s open for guests who wish to do the same.

For a less expensive spa option, try the treatments at the Bandara Spa. Prices here start from 5,050 baht for a three or five day programme.

The spa has five treatment suites with open-air floral baths and showers in a rock garden setting. The menu is extensive — ranging from hot stone massages to body scrubs and herbal steams. Customers can even choose to be massaged with oils that match their zodiac sign.

With so many spa options, the hardest choice may be just to lie back, soak in the sun and do nothing. - TODAY/sh