Cover The atmosphere of Hua Hin beach, from a quiet vacation home to the first health resort in Asia, Chiva-Som (Photo: Chiva-Som)
The atmosphere of Hua Hin beach, from a quiet vacation home to the first health resort in Asia, Chiva-Som (Photo: Chiva-Som)
1 / 1
Chiva-Som celebrates its 30th anniversary, continuing to revolutionize health tourism, pioneering sustainable lifestyle changes for holistic wellness.
On Hua Hin's pristine coastline, Chiva-Som celebrates three decades of redefining wellness tourism. Founded in 1995 by Boonchu Rojanastien, this tranquil beachfront sanctuary has evolved from a visionary concept into a globally renowned wellness brand pioneering sustainable lifestyle transformation.
"For three decades, Chiva-Som has been more than a destination; it has been a family mission and a personal journey that began in 1995," reflects Krip Rojanastien, Chairman and CEO, whose family continues the founder's legacy. He emphasises their commitment to "creating life-enhancing experiences that resonate with 'guests' values".
Read more: Suite Spots: What’s new from Fullerton Hotel Singapore, Amanpuri, Hôtel Plaza Athénée and more
Above A view from a room at Chiva-Som Hua Hin, with its contemporary Thai design and focus on health restoration (Photo: Chiva-Som)
A view from a room at Chiva-Som Hua Hin, with its contemporary Thai design and focus on health restoration (Photo: Chiva-Som)
1 / 1
What sets Chiva-Som apart is its integrative approach, seamlessly blending Western diagnostic skills with Eastern health philosophies and wisdom to focus on the outcome of restoring balance to the body, mind, and emotions.
Above Tibetan Singing Bowl Sound Therapy uses sound waves to calm the mind and improve focus (Photo: Chiva-Som)
Above A yoga class taught by an expert is designed to improve flexibility and alleviate stress (Photo: Chiva-Som)
Tibetan Singing Bowl Sound Therapy uses sound waves to calm the mind and improve focus (Photo: Chiva-Som)
1 / 2
Above Pranayama or Breathing Exercise helps lower blood pressure, improve lung function and lessen anxiety by controlling the breath (Photo: Chiva-Som)
Above Watsu - a form of aquatic bodywork and therapy that combines elements of massage, joint mobilization, stretching, and Shiatsu to release muscle intense and stress (Photo: Chiva-Som)
Pranayama or Breathing Exercise helps lower blood pressure, improve lung function and lessen anxiety by controlling the breath (Photo: Chiva-Som)
1 / 2
Over 200 treatments across six specialised modalities, encompassing spa, fitness, physiotherapy, holistic health, nutrition, and aesthetic beauty. Guests choose from 16 distinct retreats, each designed to address specific concerns and tailored to individual needs following a personal consultation.
The resort's IFOAM-accredited organic gardens supply its acclaimed wellness cuisine, ensuring ingredients are used in their most natural form. Through culinary techniques that prioritise both health and the joy of eating, Chiva-Som's food is not only rich in nutritional value, easy to digest, and beneficial for overall well-being, but also exceptionally delicious.
Read more: Bhutan is building a ‘mindfulness’ airport, expected to open in 2029
Above Taste of Siam restaurant at sunrise (Photo: Chiva-Som)
Taste of Siam restaurant at sunrise (Photo: Chiva-Som)
1 / 1
New programmes like the Metabolic Reset, introduced for 2025, directly address contemporary health challenges such as supporting guests transitioning off weight loss medications whilst promoting muscle preservation and healthy fat loss.
A 'digital detox' policy is practised throughout the resort, with mobile phones and electronic devices permitted only in guest rooms and the library, fostering peace and privacy for fellow guests. This mindful approach allows guests to disconnect and rediscover what truly matters.
Above Taste of Siam, Chiva-Som's beachfront restaurant and swimming pool (Photo: Chiva-Som)
Taste of Siam, Chiva-Som's beachfront restaurant and swimming pool (Photo: Chiva-Som)
1 / 1
Sustainability remains central to operations. Chiva-Som is driving its journey towards becoming zero-waste and carbon-neutral in the near future and is the environmental preservation steward of Krailart Niwate Mangrove Preservation Project, Hua Hin's only mangrove ecosystem. This commitment profoundly resonates with increasingly conscious travellers.
As wellness tourism matures, Chiva-Som's three-decade journey illustrates how it's not just about providing excellent service, but rather a deep commitment to fostering authentic transformation in the lives of its guests that drives lasting success, solidifying its position as a pioneer and long-standing industry standard-bearer.
