WELLNESS IN WILDERNESS AT THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE

Eat Organic

"At our camp, the path to wellbeing begins with embracing nature's bounty," explains Jutatip Sakulpanitcharoen, Spa Supervisor. Guests are treated to a special culinary journey, curated by the Camp Chef Sirintip Sianglert - from the fragrance of organic herbs and vegetables grown in Chef's own garden to the time-honoured kitchen craft of Thai cooking, every dish here is infused with the freshness of the jungle. An interactive cooking class, beginning with a foraging trip to the garden, is the perfect way to explore the culinary aspect of traditional Northern Thai culture. Deeply connected to the seasonality of this tropical landscape, Sirintip shares some insights into why Thai cuisine is so wholesome and nutritious. "We encourage guests to get hands-on in preparing a lavish Thai meal that is then enjoyed under a canopy of stars. Serenaded by the symphony of the jungle, this is truly a celebration of the harmony between nature and nourishment - the first step towards wellness." Signature dishes such as Khao Soi, a coconut curry noodle soup, and Gaeng Hang Lay, a rich Northern Thai pork curry, are among the local delicacies served, each representing the region's culinary heritage and the vibrant flavours of its ingredients.

One with Nature

The Golden Triangle is more than just a geographical intersection of nations; it is in fact a complex tapestry of hills, rivulets, tribal communities, and wildlife, all waiting to be explored. "The pristine beauty of the wilderness here can be almost overwhelming," says Paweena. Guided by Camp Guides, guests may explore the camp's natural setting, where reclaimed bamboo pathways wind through the dense foliage and along the restless Ruak River. Every tent on the premises is embedded within this dense bamboo jungle, offering a soul-stirring experience that echoes through the day with the calls of exotic birds. Tucked neatly away into the jungle, the outdoor jungle spa sits high amid the bamboo canopy like a nest of naturopathy. "Indulge in the Mekong Body Meditation Massage, a holistic spa treatment focusing on body-mind harmony, featuring a gentle massage, Mekong River stones for circulation, and aromatherapy relaxation," adds Paweena. "Experience the rejuvenating effects of local herbal oils and the therapeutic touch of smooth natural bamboo sticks, targeting deep-seated muscle tension amid the tranquil surroundings of the Ruak Bamboo sanctuary." Here, under the healing touch of expert therapists, traditional massage practices paired with locally sourced mountain herbs offer some truly impactful wellness solutions.

Sustainable Solutions

As stewards of the land, Four Seasons stands committed to preserving the exotic wilderness of the Golden Triangle. Through sustainable practices and eco-conscious initiatives, the staff at the camp help ensure that the jungle remains pristine and free of degradation. Guests are invited to join the Camp team on foraging excursions, exploring Chef's garden and learning about the many medicinal plants that thrive in the jungle. With every mindful step, guests make a lasting connection with the land and gain an appreciation for fragility of this ecosystem. Moreover, guests can further engage in educational tours at local, natural, cultural, historical or heritage sites to learn more about the local community. These tours offer opportunities to discover local plants with expert guides, enjoy fishing with a local along the Ruak River, and embark on hikes to Ban Ja Jor, a Lahu hill-tribe village, immersing themselves in the richness of the surrounding environment and culture. "Throughout their stay, guests are also welcome to contribute to the camp's conservation efforts, which help support local communities and tribal initiatives," suggests Paweena. "In doing so, guests become guardians of nature, leaving behind a legacy of preservation and reverence."

Be in Bamboo Jungle

In the tranquil embrace of the Golden Triangle, the whispers of the jungle and the gentle rustle of river below create a spiritual resonance that helps with healing. In Thai Buddhist philosophy the spiritual is inseparable from nature, intertwining with it to offer an ell-encompassing sanctitude. At the Camp, guests can engage with nature from the earliest glow of dawn, for sunrise yoga, beginning the day with sun salutations to the sun during sunrise yoga. "Guests may also participate in guided meditation sessions, where mindfulness helps build stillness and clarity. "As guests connect with the profound wisdom of the natural world amid the ancient trees and the gushing streams, they can connect with their senses and discover a deeper understanding of the self in relation to the natural world," remarks Jutatip. "And, guests are invited to join a morning camp hike to Camp Peak, where they can witness the breathtaking sunrise unfold before their eyes. Led by our Camp guide, allowing ample time to ascend to the summit and bask in the radiant glow of dawn."

Come evening, the setting sun drops dramatically below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the landscape. This phenomenon lingers in quiet contemplation, grateful for the moments of serenity here in the heart of the Golden Triangle. "In this sacred landscape, it is not hard to find balance, and harmony, and a renewed sense of purpose. We invite you to embark on your personal journey towards wellbeing with Four Seasons, and let the mysterious ways of nature guide your path," adds Paweena.