langkawi magazine
To Do SECTION
JivaRhu: a Celebration of the Spa Evolution in Langkawi
The five star Tanjung Rhu Resort on the idyllic island of Langkawi has launched an innovative new spa facility, JivaRhu, set to capture the imagination of spa enthusiasts around the world. The spa's name - and personality - comes from the Sanskrit word, Jiva, which means life, and is three acres of pure delight, harnessing the exquisite natural beauty of the island. An imaginative response to today's spa needs, JivaRhu sets a new benchmark by offering specially developed treatment experiences, rather than following the industry standard.
JivaRhu blends together the very best purifying and revitalising treatments from Eastern traditions dating back thousands of years, with the very latest in Western modern spa therapies. These treatments have been derived and influenced from the Malay Archipelago, including ancient Thai massage, traditional massage that incorporates Malaysian and Indonesian methods, aromatherapy, reflexology and Ayurvedic therapies. Says General Manager of the Tanjung Rhu, IZ Melvin, 'I am proud to be launching JivaRhu and simultaneously bringing the spa lifestyle experience into a whole new dimension. What sets us apart from other spas, is the huge range of choice that we can offer in terms of treatments - not to mention the resort's highly acclaimed service standards. 'There is a growing trend in spa travellers and we have certainly seen a huge interest in our new facility. Many of our guest are experienced, regular spa users, so we are committed to providing new and exciting treatments and packages that will appeal to those who enjoy spa luxuries and expect the very latest in treatments and holistic therapies.' The spa's open and airy design is stylish and sits in perfect harmony with the natural beauty of the resort.
JivaRhu consists of twelve independent villas built on a stretch of beautifully landscaped garden which offers breathtaking views of the affinity pool and the sea beyond. The entire spa village has been carefully designed to offer a tranquil and natural setting. Latticed woodwork roofs in the foyer and pathways enable the sunshine to light up the spa naturally during the day, and at night, an unhindered view of the night sky provides a romantic ambience. At the greeting pavilion, guests are provided with a health drink before the masseuse prepares them for the pampering experience they have chosen. In the pavilion there is also an Ayurveda consultation room, where guests can learn more about his famous ancient Eastern healing tradition from a professional Ayurveda consultant.
For their treatments, guests can choose from twelve different treatment villas - eight single and four double - for couples or friends who wish to experience the treatments together. The villas are intimate, open-air enclaves, each with its own private garden, complete with outdoor steam room, sauna, showers, and outdoor jacuzzi. Each room has its own personality - from the special natural sounds effects to the specially blended aromatherapy scent created from the essence of island spices, herbs and tropical flowers to relax and calm the senses. Adds Melvin, 'JivaRhu has the right balance of exclusivity, yet it's foundation is firmly based in time-tested traditions and wisdoms, setting guests on the journey of rediscovering their centre. We are offering yet another experience like no other on the island.' Should guests wish to indulge in beauty treatments, there is a wide range available, ranging from facial treatments to a full range of manicures and pedicures. If an adrenaline rush is more to their taste, a fully equipped gym at the spa comes with a view of the pool and the sea.
Working out will never be the same again! Above the gym is the open-air Thai Chi and yoga area ' an area with no walls or ceiling. Guests can practise these two restorative exercises surrounded by the treetops, gentle breezes, and a view of the ocean, creating a rare environment of harmonious balance between man and nature. The garden that adorns the spa is a burst of colour and exotic scents of the natural foliage. The spa is real favourite with colourful native birds - whose overhead chirping helps to lull the senses ' proving testament to the fact that it's a welcome haven for local wildlife. Langkawi is one of a group of 99 islands studded across the emerald waters of the Andaman Sea, set amongst the centuries old limestone crags, hills, canopied rainforest and virgin jungle. It is a unique and tranquil retreat, where fauna and flora are found in abundant variety - a place that has retained its island charm and hospitality.
Langkawi 6/8/2003
