Not only is Rai Ra Spa the most convenient spa if you're enjoying a day on the beach in the middle of Chaweng, but it's also one of the island's finest.
And being a part, albeit totally separate, of Chaweng's super-stylish Muang Samui Spa Resort, means that excellence is guaranteed.
It's on the edge of the beach itself, with a large free-form swimming pool to one side. And one of the reasons it's so attractive is that it's been designed in the traditional 'Ayuddhya­style', with intricately small brickwork creating an authentic 'Old Siam' atmosphere.
Enter through the chedi which resembles a huge bell, and the classic theme continues. And that's not just in the Oriental décor. The staff is decidedly old-style Thailand too with a totally natural genteel hospitality.
There are 8 treatment rooms here, with a choice between luxurious air­conditioned suites on the ground-floor, complete with open­air shower facilities and outside aromatic bathtubs, and open-sided rooftop suites on the first floor. And these upper­ level rooms have the added advantage of looking directly along the beach itself and savouring the cooling sea-breezes.
The massages at Rai Ra are particularly relaxing, as they have a signature style of their own. And that's very slow with a continuous touch. It's amazing how this slight variation on the norm makes such a world of difference. There're several specialized techniques available too including the Sun Lover Massage which is an ideal pre ­ sun treatment that enhances skin colouring and healthy hair after a day in the sun and gives your skin a healthy glow.
And the same also applies to the body­ scrub treatments.They all have a decidedly edible theme to them, including:Oriental Herbs Salt Scrub; Coffee & Spice Citrus Sugar Scrub; Pink Grapefruit Sugar Scrub; Tropical Fruit Scrub; and finally a Honey & Sesame Seed Scrub. Not only do they make an excellent job of smoothing your skin, they'll give you an appetite too! Body­ wraps are equally fruity,again leaving you feeling refreshed, rehydrated and totally soothed.
And the Mineral Facial with its natural minerals from the North of Thailand is also highly recommended.
As with many other spas, the best way to really appreciate Rai Ra Spa's services is to opt for one of its many packages.