RAKxa Integrative Wellness, Thailand: An Exclusive Retreat Rooted in Tradition
As Thailand cements its reputation as a global wellness hub, I recently visited Bangkok to explore RAKxa Integrative Wellness, which is on a mission to help guests live healthier, more balanced lives. I was immersed in a tranquil, nature-filled retreat blending Thai healing traditions with cutting-edge scientific wellness and holistic practices, enhanced by advanced medical diagnostics and biohacking programmes.
A Serene Arrival
Just a 45-minute drive from Bangkok Airport and located in Bang Krachao, Bangkok’s leafy ‘green lung’ area on the Chao Phraya River, RAKxa Integrative Wellness, opened at the end of 2020, feels worlds away from the bustle of Thailand’s capital.
On arrival, I was charmed by the singing bowl reception and the retreat’s peaceful setting among tropical gardens and quiet waterways. Tal Friedman, Director of Wellness Operations, welcomed me and explained the RAKxa experience, highlighting its personalised wellness programmes rooted in tradition and science, and its commitment to balance, harmony, and holistic care.
Moments later, I was gliding through the retreat in a golf buggy, bound for my beautiful and luxurious pool villa. It was spacious and modern, decorated in muted earthy tones, and bathed in sunshine. I loved the gluten-free cookies and juices that greeted me, the huge comfy bed, and the private pool with dreamy views over the lake - what more could I ask for?
Owner of The Edit Magazine, Sarah Highfield, relaxing in the private villa at RAKxa
Settling In
After settling in, I had consultations with medical experts who, in collaboration with one another, provided a bespoke programme targeting exercise, nutrition, rest, restorative treatments, and stress management. Focusing on stress, sleep, and bloating, my first port of call was for a much-needed Relaxing Massage with Nam to help me unwind and adjust to RAKxa’s slower pace.
Throughout my stay, I spent my time moving between three main areas: JAI, GAYA, and the VitalLife Scientific Wellness Clinic. JAI offers over 200 holistic and alternative treatments, while GAYA features a medical gym, reformer studio, and outdoor pool. The VitalLife Clinic, partnered with Bumrungrad International Hospital, is a serene anti-aging medical centre overlooking the water. Together, they offer everything from gut health IV drips and hormone screening to tai chi, reiki, and flotation therapy. RAKxa also recognises the role of emotional wellbeing; offering mindfulness workshops and breathwork sessions that help guests reconnect with themselves on a deeper level
My appointments included a Functional Fitness Assessment with Friend, a Traditional Thai Medicine Diagnosis with Dr. Chernkwan Mookprom, a Marma Healing Massage targeting key energy points, a Nutrition Consultation with Ueamporn Saengsuwon, and a Profacial treatment for glowing skin.
On my final afternoon, I was sent for a 110-minute Thai Deep Sleep & Skin Radiant Therapy with Praew, beginning with a 15-minute Thai herbal bath, followed by a full-body coconut flake scrub, and finishing with a Thai therapeutic massage using herbal compress and CBD oil. To say it was blissful does not do it justice; Praew was brilliant, her massage was incredibly soothing with just the right amount of pressure - I was on cloud nine afterwards.
Dining Highlights
All my meals were at the retreat’s UNAM restaurant, where colourful, delicious dishes were custom-made to my needs. The menu mixes Thai dishes at lunch, Western-inspired creations for dinner, and à la carte healthy breakfasts (the salmon and quinoa poké bowl with a green detox juice was my favourite). Every meal was fresh, balanced, portion controlled, and full of flavour - I never left hungry. Lunches and dinners included multiple courses with herbal teas, homemade kombuchas, and juices; highlights included pan-seared salmon with lemon bechamel sauce made from macadamia nuts, duck confit with apple puree, and Thai crab noodles with Asian greens.
Relaxing in the Most Beautiful Surroundings
Outside the programme, guests can relax in their villas, use the gym, enjoy the hydrotherapy room with sweeping Bangkok skyline views, or join group activity classes. I spent my free time idyllically cycling around the grounds, particularly after meals, and unwinding in my private swimming pool.
It was not easy leaving - I loved the peacefulness of the retreat, the wonderful staff, the food, and the healing. Transformation did not come from any single treatment, but from a combination of everything offered.
RAKxa is an adults-only destination for those who are seeking to restore balance and reverse burn-out or stress. Its calm setting, coupled with a strong focus on natural healing and achievable health goals, is ideal for travellers who want more than surface-level relaxation. The staff are incredibly supportive and communicate with one another, ensuring your stay and programme is harmonious, integrated, and bespoke.
Good to Know
Kullanit Vorawanichar, Executive Chef at RAKxa, is truly exceptional. She serves vibrant, flavourful, and nourishing dishes, and together with her talented team, ensures every meal is thoughtfully customised to each guest’s needs.
Guests at RAKxa receive complimentary refillable water bottles and tote bags.
Guests at RAKxa are allocated four items of complimentary laundry per day, making packing lighter and more convenient.
The dedicated arrival team at RAKxa offer a seamless airport experience; guests are greeted as they disembark the plane, escorted by private buggy past the queues, fast-tracked through passport control, assisted with luggage, and taken directly to their waiting limousine.
