Reviewed by Michael Cullen
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THE SANCTUARY - REVIEW
Detox or retox, that is the question. All-night beach-party with beers, smokes and music? Or all-day fast, with meditation, massage and a bowl of veggie broth? Both are on offer at the Sanctuary, a laid-back resort on one of the remote beaches of Koh Phangan ('Full Moon Party') island. The social life sure swings: from Notting Hill navel-gazers to Californian casting directors, it has become quite well-known, in an unpublicised sort of way, among the young and trendy. And meeting other guests is definitely part of the fun - sharing stories on the sand, or strumming guitars from a hammock.
But the health treatments are what sets it apart. Dietary courses, herbal steam-baths, massages, hydrotherapy, even colonic irrigation are available for those who need to de-stress physically as well as mentally. This combination makes it unique among Thai beach resorts, but it's not for everyone. If you're after a well-appointed room in a highly-organised resort, look elsewhere. If you want a memorable experience, and don’t mind some friendly chaos, self-examination and dirt under your fingers, then read on… |
