An almost unforeseen journey, punctuated by a series of synchronicities. The Layan Life wellness concept unveiled at the sumptuous Anantara Layan Phuket in late 2024 tickled Amber’s curiosity, our marketing expert and travel designer. She chose to follow her intuition, to surrender to the irresistible call of escape, and to meet this new partner whose concept was shaped by ancestral wisdom and the latest scientific and technological innovations. After all, isn’t the best way to recommend a destination to experience it yourself, and meet the people who bring it to life? So Amber set off to the land of smiles. Destination Phuket, the multi-faceted island-province, for a wellness escape on Thailand’s largest island. Many of you regularly turn to our “Tried and tested for you” section (thanks for your continued trust), it helps guide your travel choices, letting your journey begin through our photos and first impressions. I felt it was essential to experience “The Layan Life” myself to bring your desires for renewal and discovery to life, amisdt lush nature, vibrant colors, soft sandy beaches and a wellness philosophy steeped in light and wisdom.
Anantara Layan Phuket: your island wellness sanctuary
Upon my arrival at Phuket airport, I was immediately struck by the island’s energy : its exotic scents, a new melody that overshadowed the hustle and bustle of tireless and elusive Bangkok. My eyes met those of my dedicated Anantara hostess right away, she greeted me with the warm smile that only Thai can truly master and escorted me to my car. I allowed the gentle atmosphere to envelop me, watching as the clouds parted.
On the way, I let my eyes wander over the surrounding landscapes: between Sino-Portuguese architecture, the charm of traditional houses contrasting with ambitious, ever-expanding real estate projects. Nature gradually reclaimed its rightful place, much to my delight: exuberant vegetation, flowers in a thousand vibrant colors, I marveled at the view, with the enthusiastic and proud gaze of my driver-guide accompanying me. He introduced me to the island’s treasures, giving even more meaning and depth to the fascinating scene unfolding before my eyes.
Along the roadside, merchants and passersby strolled and chatted, with the Andaman Sea as a backdrop. As a spectator of these everyday scenes, I felt privileged. I had the profound intuition that I was about to live a powerful and transforming experience. I blinked to mentally capture this precious “here and now moment”, so I could relive it and absorb that sense of gratitude.
As we passed the unmissable Banana Beach, my driver informed me that we were almost at our destination.
I was eager to discover Anantara Layan Phuket. A stunning gem of the prestigious Thai luxury hotel group, renowned and acclaimed for its exceptional properties, recently spotlighted in The White Lotus series (Anantara Mai Khao Phuket in particular).
From the moment you arrive, you are transported into a soothing bubble of softness and serenity. Your entrance key: a Frangipani flowers bracelet tied to your wrist. A subtle, evocative trail, a delicate olfactory caress.
After meeting my key contacts on site: the General Manager, and khun Tar the Sales Director, I proceeded with my check-in, while sipping a fragrant refreshment paired with wellness snacks as tasty as delicacies, all while being serenaded by the sounds of nature and the song of birds. The reception will be your first point of contact with Anantara’s signature design. Sleek yet faithful to its Thai heritage, and above all it opens up to the outside world, a fusion of indoors and outdoors, with elevated natural materials.
A refined design inspired by island beauty
Let the buggy take you to the privacy of your suite or residence. This is the preferred mode of transportation here, both fun and practical, as Anantara Layan Phuket is quite expansive. A wide range of services and facilities are available (Layan Active Zone, Layan Spa, lobby, beach house, restaurants, kids zone, etc.), but Anantara Layan remains a genuinely authentic sanctuary with a real sense of soul. When you wish to move around, simply contact reception by phone and your buggy will escort you to the area of your choice (one of the restaurants, the wellness center, the beach, the Active Zone,…). The customer service is attentive and thoughtful, ensuring a restorative, seamless and flawless on-site experience.
I was lucky enough to stay in a Pool Suite. This room type is a true ode to refinement: a bedroom space opening onto a sun-drenched terrace, which extends into a private azure pool reflecting the coconut trees. The palm fronds surround you, structuring the space of your exotic paradise, as if you were immersed in nature itself, with the Andaman Sea as your horizon.
The Pool Suite acts as an invitation to pause and reflect, so all that’s left is to choose your preferred chill zone: whether it’s the daybed in the shade of the palm trees, a cocoon-like bathtub to relax in, or the firm yet cozy comfort of your generously-sized bed. This room type has nothing but assets: spacious, it combines subtle touches of color, with elements of design and craftsmanship. The bathroom is decorated in a traditional style, with a shower featuring a mineral-inspired bench, and the bathtub marks the transition into the bedroom space. Your senses awaken with the luxury of Diptyque skincare products, the famous fragrance house.
The in-room welcome is thoughfully curated: a generous fruit basket takes pride of place on the table, filling the air with a deliciously sweet fragrance. Next to it, a freshly prepared coconut, soft passion fruit-flavored pastries and a small booklet outlining the virtues of each citrus fruit, berry and exotic treat. A beautiful handmade basket also awaited me, perfect for any admirer of wickerwork like myself. It was a precious craft with the ideal size to slip in the essentials for your wellness escape.
As a travel designer, review stays can be pretty intense. Between interviews, content creation (photos and videos), and the inevitable FOMO (fear of missing out). I was struck by the natural empathy of the teams. They put together a rich program for me, filled with consultations, therapies, treatments and activities allowing me to discover the many facets of the Layan Life wellness philosophy. But they also made sure I had time to soak in the surroundings before diving into the wellness center and getting into the heart of the experience.
I took a deep breath, feeling grounded and aligned. I enjoyed the sun’s gentle caress on my skin, watched the palm leaves dance to the rythm of the breeze and became aware of the beauty surrounding me. This is a first example of the relevance of Layan Life’s wellness approach: encouraging one to slow down in order to welcome, to feel the transformation taking place while reconnecting with one’s needs and aspirations in the heart of this magnificient sanctuary.
A haven of slow-luxury, welcoming and inclusive
Khun Tar escorted me (still by buggy) on a tour of the resort, its facilities and the residences, offering a range of flexible and adaptable accommodation options to cater to your changing life moments.
The high standards of Anantara’s signature service, the variety of activities offered (waterand aquatic sports, fitness, educational, gastronomic, recreational…), and the diversity of spaces, position Anantara Layan Phuket as an inclusive destination, offering a personalized experience suited to a wide range of guests: couples, families, solo travelers and groups.
Beyond the expression of slow-luxury, blending a culture of excellence with refined aesthetics, Anantara Layan Phuket instills a profound sense of harmony. This will be your first wellness sensation within this sanctuary.
Harmony unfolds on multiple levels: in the wellness philosophy itself, in the design of the spaces, and perhaps more uniquely, in the opportunity for each individual to journey at their own pace. Anantara Layan provides its guests with the space to be, to realize themselves, whether they are wellness enthusiasts or newcomers, whether they come with company or alone, blending mindfulness and leisure, according to their own sensitivities.
A harmonious reconnection, a reflection of the surrounding nature
At the blend of a final perfectly executed curve, the Layan Life wellness center comes into view. A true expression of the wellness philosophy shaping Anantara Layan Phuket, it marks the pinnacle of my visit, standing in contrast to the other sections of the resort.
Layan Life is a world of its own, with its 1,767 square meters, it stands as a leading wellness center, and its serene design inspires a comforting sense of calm. Facing the building, a small temple adorned with offerings invites reverence and stillness. This two-storey pavilion, floating above a milky-hued pond, opens seamlessly onto the surrounding greenery, blending effortlessly into the landscape. The vibrant bougainvillea thatlined your path throughout the resort give way here to delicate water lilies, cultivating a sense of peace and serenity for both body and soul.
Layan Life aims to reinvent the wellness experience. The pavilion’s design is rooted in biophilic principles, with neutral tones that celebrate the beauty of greenery and naturality. The open spaces are bathed in light and the minimalist aesthetic, with its serene purity, encourages a harmonious (re)connection with nature and promotes a soothing visual reset. The IV drip room is also a privileged observation point for the local wildlife. Just before sunset, you can witnessthe choreographed ritual of the pond’s fish rising to feed at the water’s surface. From this duality, between cutting-edge medical expertise and deep connection to its natural environment, emerges the distinctive harmony at the heart of Layan Life’s wellness philosophy.
A transformational wellness journey
Layan Life’s approach to wellness is unique, singular and respectful. Humility is a core value, despite the teams’ extensive knowledge and their remarkable sensitivity. The Layan Life philosophy is nourished by both ancestral wisdom and scientific innovation. Without seeking to oppose, validate or prioritize one influence over the other.
Wellness at Layan Life thrives in this balance of forces. Humility also defines the relationship between practitioner and guest: your choices will be heard, your preferences considered. Doctors and therapists are experts, yet never adopt a position of superiority. Health plans are fully personalized, wellness packages are enriched with bespoke suggestions, that embrace not only your goals but also your individuality and identity. I found this vision to be striking accurante and profoundy resonant.
Layan Life combines advanced assessments and diagnostics, with personalized nutritional guidance and fitness support – a holistic and cross-disciplinary vision of wellness.
The strength of this approach lies in its ability to address your needs in an interconnected way. Wellness at Layan Life is liberating and empowering. It fosters self-awareness and deep listening, encouraging you to reconnect with your innermost aspirations. This vision brings meaning and the strength to initiate the transformation you seek.
The multidimensional Life method
The four pillars that structure Layan Life’s wellness philosophy are longevity medicine, traditional Thai medicine (TTM), complementary medicine and lifestyle practices. This stay in Thailand was my most significant initiation into the fundamentals of traditional Thai medicine.
The Life method philosophy is rooted in the principles of TTM: with the elements of Din (earth), Nam (water), Lom (wind) and Fai (fire) living within us. Imbalances that may arise and alter the harmony between these elements can affect our health. According to the Layan Life philosophy, our life can be viewed through the lens of the seasons, each of which is unique, and the choices we make today already shape the contours of the chapters to come. Layan Life offers to guide us on this personal journey towards optimal health and a holistic, sustainable well-being at any age.
The healing pillars inspiring the Life Method are diverse and complementary: advanced diagnostics, cutting-edge treatments (revitalization and healthy ageing) combined with ancestral Thai traditions of plant medicine, massages and spiritual healing to align and live in harmony. Additionally holistic complementary therapies and lifestyle practices are integrated for optimal health and vitality.
Plant medicine, massages, nutrition and movement are key levers in restoring our health. Traditional Thai medicine encompasses your lifestyle, emotions and environment.
Layan Life: achieving supreme balance
After a tour of the different areas within the Layan Life building and a rich and insightful conversation with Khun Sasithorn, the wellness manager, my itinerary for the days ahead was revealed to me.
I had the privilege of discovering some of the most iconic treatments of the Life method.
Starting with the initial wellness consultation, followed by the Vitality traditional Thai medicine consultation. Prior to my stay, I had completed a very detailed questionnaire. It covered my health objectives, the context of my wellness stay, my medical history, questions about my diet and lifestyle, as well as more specific sections on the nervous, cardiovascular and respiratory systems. There were also focuses on digestion, gynecology, immunity, endocrinology and dermatology. The team gained a thorough understanding of my condition before my arrival, and the questionnaire served as a valuable tool for discussion.
I found the initial consultation at Layan Life fascinating, particularly regarding the MTT aspect. As the questions unfolded, I felt connections starting to form. My interlocutor identified the element that best characterized me. Based on my answers and verbatims, she pinpointed certain imbalances and made initial recommendations for treatments and rituals. The support offered by Layan Life is unique, combining plant-based concoctions, therapeutic treatments and, in my case, personalized nutritional advice.
I was able to freel express the reservations I had about certain treatment recommendations, and the Layan Life team was attentive and proactive. They adapted their suggestions accordingly. For instance, I’m referring to hyperbaric oxygen therapy. This chamber delivers 100% pure oxygen at a pressure higher than that of ambient air. This allows the lungs to absorb more oxygen and increase its concentration in the body. The benefits of this therapy are numerous: revitalization, boosted brain function, a strengthened immune system, and a regenerated body in need of recovery. This, of course, is provided you don’t have apprehension about being immobilized in the chamber during the session.
Following this consultation, I received my first Thai massage. The therapist placed a traditional plant preparation beneath the massage table to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment. She literally put her finger on the pain points that hindered the proper flow of energy and contributed to bad posture. The persistent tension at the junction between my shoulder and back put up some serious resistance, but thanks to the therapist’s determination, I regained mobility. The pain was, at times, almost unbearable, and I suppose it reflected the internal struggle between body and mind, striving to return to a state of balance.
Surprisingly, at the end of the pressure and manipulation applied, the body’s release was consistently accompanied by a deep sense of calm, which led me into a nearly meditative state. This not only proved the effectiveness of the approach but also showed its profound impact. After the massage, I went to a relaxation room to hydrate and talk with the team present.
Back in my room, I got ready to head out for dinner. Anantara offers several restaurants, each with its own unique identity, immersing you in a memorable and distinctive experience. I chose Age, the restaurant closest to my room.
I chose a delicious lentil dahl and savored a dessert of absolute refinement, a coconut variation with an exquisite play of textures, enjoyed in the presence of a (nearly) full moon sparkling in the sky.
Your wellness day: go with the flow
The next morning, I started my day with a stretching session, guided by personal trainer Billy. It was a gentle awakening for the body and muscles, continuing the work initiated the day before with the traditional Thai massage. The seamless communication between the teams speaks to their professionalism and supports a holistic approach to care. From a client’s perspective, this creates a lot of trust and tranquility: there’s no need to repeat yourself from one consultation to the next, you can simply go with the flow and feel at ease.
I had the opportunity to meet and interview some of the key figures behind Layan Life: most notably, anti-aging doctor Dr. Sataporn W., and Khun Sasithorn, the wellness manager.
We discussed IV drips, intravenous infusion therapies that are tailored to your specific needs and administered under the supervision of doctors and nurses. These vitamin-infused drips deliver essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream: including vitamins, minerals and amino acids for targeted results such as:
- detox
- immune system boost
- revitalization
- support for sustainable weight loss
- beauty glow and skin rejuvenation
- jet lag recovery
- enhanced cognitive function
- NAD+ for optimal cellular performance
- overall well-being
I would also like to draw your attention to the Pao Ya therapy, which is a wellness experience in itself. This signature treatment aims to detoxify the body and support digestive health. It had also been recommended to me during my stay at Anantara Riverside Bangkok.
This traditionnal herbalist therapy harnesses the power of fire-heated herbs to promote healthy digestion, reduce water retention and release deep muscular tension. The experience begins with the application of a specially infused oil on the abdominal area. Warmed herbs are then placed over the abdomen to relax the intestines and harmonize Lom (the wind element).
You can watch my full conversation with Khun Sasithorn and Khun Tiah in our video interview:
Following my consultations and interview sessions, i was treated to a deeply soothing and highly sensory wellness immersion. Among the treatments offered at Layan Life was the traditional Thai herbal hydrotherapy. This detoxifying bathing ritual is designed to relieve chronic tension, stimulate lymphatic drainage and restore the skin’s natural glow. This bath also incorporates the principles of chromotherapy, using the power of color to influence the body and mind.
Most of the treatments I was recommended were intented to balance the wind element – or Lom according to traditional Thai medicine.
I then experienced the most profound moment of my entire stay in Thailand, a ritual of energy healing led by an Indian healer. This treatment combined several techniques: craniosacral massage, auriculotherapy, acupressure, and the use of traditional oils and herbs. And, undoubtedly, a touch of magic. During the ritual, I felt intense emotions rise, followed by a deep sense of alignment and relaxation. It was as if all the stress accumulated over the past months simply melted away. This newfound, healing lightness left me speechless. I had never felt such a serene state, unshakeable and persistent. Like a deafening silence. The healer asked me to keep the small pressure points placed on my ears until the end of the day, and to remove them before sunset.
That afternoon, the sense of peace never left me. It was not a lazy calm, instead, I felt energised, focused and grounded.
Posture and Body-Mind alignment
Another key facet of Layan Life’s expertise lies in posture and mobility. I was very impressed by physiotherapist Pacanut Intafong (khun Pat). After a thorough diagnostic phase using the 3D Moti Physio system, khun Pat identified musculoskeletal imbalances that were leading to the overuse of certain muscles, causing persistent tension in my back and neck. Khun Pat’s expertise lies in her analytical mindset, sharp observational skills and the passion she brings to her work. Her certifications in various rehabilitation techniques allow her to create a personalized treatment plan aimed at correcting posture and enhancing overall musculoskeletal health.
Following this initial assessment with khun Pat, we moved on to the next phase with a Pain Management session. This treatment combines advanced technology with targeted manual massage, traction and stretching techniques to relieve pain and restore mobility. Khun Pat also recommended a set of exercises and movements to be practiced regularly at home to extend the benefits of our session.
The wellness itinerary had been thoughtfully designed, as the next module following physiotherapy was a hyper-stretching session with personal trainer Billy. I was initially skeptical about this, having already started the day with a stretching session. But as soon as I arrived in the coaching room, soft towels were comfortably laid out on the floor. Once again, the Layan Life approach proved its consistency: this guided, completely pain-free stretching session promotes muscle recovery and mobility. These are assisted, choreographed stretches during which your personal trainer mobilizes each limb in accordance with your abilities and supports your progress. By the end of the session, you feel physically aligned, lighter and even taller.
Wellness retreats: guides to your holistic transformation
I regard my experience report as an opportunity to address some of the recurring questions raised by our audience. Especially, concerning the wellness packages at Anantara Layan Phuket. I’d like to point out that these programs are available in formats ranging from 3 to 10 days. Designed as immersive retreats, they meet a variety of needs to help you achieve your health and wellbeing goals.
Layan Life is the wellness destination for regaining balance, reconnecting with yourself, overcoming burnout, reducing and managing anxiety, regulating hormones, nurturing the nervous system, achieving sustainable weight goals, restoring vitality, improving physical condition, and benefiting from anti-aging and longevity expertise.
The expert teams anticipate your needs and tailor the most suitable retreat for you from their extensive range of treatments and therapies.
Each package includes, in addition to personalized treatments and full board, daily group classes, wellness talks to deepen your knowledge on topics that matter to you, and preferential accommodation rates.
The core Life Method packages currently available are:
- Traditional Thai medicine: a wellness immersion that combines ancestral healing protocols with the contributions of modern science.
- Shape for Life: a program to not only achieve optimal weight but also rebuild body confidence and a peaceful relationship with food
- Beauty for Life: an anti-aging package that helps reverse the effects of time and reconnect inner and outer beauty
- Active for Life: a proactive approach to regain strength and vitality
- Mindfulness for Life: focused on building resilience, reducing stress, and fostering reconnection with your inner peace
- Change for Life: a transformational retreat designed to guide you through life’s meaningful transitions and rites of passage
Your package will be personalized following your initial consultation, and I would be delighted to guide you or put you in touch with Layan Life wellness teams.
Layan Life: the temple of well-being
To support and accompany your holistic transformation, Anantara Layan Phuket draws on a variety of treatments as well as state-of-the-art facilities to meet your needs and introduce you to passions that will enrich your new daily life.
The pavilion, spread over two floors, features on the lower level: the soothing Layan Life reception area, a huge gym equipped with top-notch machines (free access and personal trainer sessions), a beautiful yoga and meditation studio with natural light, a second studio with reformers, areas dedicated to hydrotherapy, vitality pools, a hammam in the purest Thai tradition, a Himalayan salt dry sauna and experiential showers.
The first floor houses medical and holistic facilities, including consultation rooms, aesthetic treatment rooms, as well as areas for cryotherapy, colon hydrotherapy and the hyperbaric chamber.
And let’s not forget the herboristery, the pinnacle of refinement and the soul of Layan Life, where I had the privilege to interview khun Sasithorn and khun Tiah. It is the space where plants and herbs are carefully classified and preparations are delicately crafted.
The indoor pool is ideal for aquatic training. You can extend your wellness journey by visiting the Active Zone: it includes tennis courts, a Muay Thai ring and outdoor exercise areas. To complement your program, you can take part in Layan’s signature activities, regularly updated by the teams, to relax, reconnect, challenge and immerse yourself in the unique destination that is Phuket. Among the excursions and activities available you will find: hiking, CrossFit, Muay Thai boxing, Body Balance, rock climbing, archery, thai sword dance… to name a few.
An exquisite and mindful culinary exploration
The Layan Life approach, embodied by Filippo Tawil, Wellness Chef Consultant, is a wellness experience in itsself. It carries the structural markers of Layan Life: refinement of flavors, elegance of presentation and that exquisite balance that defines the Layan Life philosophy.
Wellness enthusiasts may already have had the chance to taste the desirable creations of Italian chef Filippo Tawil. He is the mastermind and culinary genius behind the Layan Life dining concept. Driven by a passion for well-being as a catalyst for lifestyle transformation, he has crafted a tailor-made menu that combines flavor and nutritional value to support us through our wellness journey. He has previously worked at the award-winning Academia restaurant (Hotel d’Angleterre in Switzerland) and collaborated with Europe’s most exclusive medical spa: Clinique la Prairie in Switzerland (locally sourced biodynamic ingredients).
Layan Life’s wellness menu has been designed as a collection of signature dishes combining gastronomic desirability and organic traceability (the finest ingredients). True to the nutritional philosophy of Layan Life, each creation nourishes the body and soul, providing a sensory awakening that contributes to your well-being.
The offers are gluten-free and dairy-free to reduce inflammation and aid digestion. Similarly, you will not find refined sugars or cereals. Instead, you will delight in superfoods like quinoa, goji berries, spirulina and chia seeds. You will also learn to incorporate into your new, anything-but-monotonous routine, spices and ingredients that boost flavor and have anti-inflammatory properties.
Gut health is at the heart of Layan Life’s nutritional philosophy. Fermented foods, plant-based proteins and seaweed aid digestion and contribute to your well-being. But above all, this mindful cuisine encourages us to savor every moment.
Anantara Layan Phuket boasts several restaurants: Beach House Layan (for breakfast in particular), Breeze by the pool, Zuma the award-winning contemporary Japanese restaurant, I had the opportunity to dine at Age (refined international grill cuisine) and the magnificient Dara.
Dara Cuisine Phuket: your cosmic culinary exploration
For my last evening at Anantara Layan Phuket, I decided to dine at the sumptuous Dara restaurant. It was the concept that fascinated me, and the perfect way to conclude this exceptional stay.
Located a bit away from the other facilities, in the heart of nature, not far from the Anantara plantations, Dara Cuisine Phuket invites you to an immersive, celestial, magical experience. This restaurant reinterprets traditional Thai cuisine and sets the tone with its claim“Sip, Savour, Stargaze”. I was captivated by the gestures of the chefs at work: talented, generous and inspired. The open kitchens add charm and theatricality to this space of absolute refinement. The ingredients are elevated, and the service is attentive, charming and authentic.
At the end of the meal, just before dessert, I climbed the stairs to head towards the stargazing point. A moment of timeless contemplation, before coming back down to Earth to continue the journey by savoring an Oh-Aew, a typical Phuket dessert reimagined by Dara: a cosmic culinary exploration.
Verdict: my stay at Anantara Layan Phuket was enriching, even enlightening. I did not just discover the Layan Life wellness approach, I lived it, felt it so intensely that it continues to inspire my lifestyle, to guide my decisions and to strengthen my intuition, even months later. The Layan Life experience is truly transformative, it mirrors your deepest aspirations. It invites introspection. That’s why I’m highlighting below the top 3 most impactful moments for me at Anantara Layan Phuket:
– contemplating the surrounding nature: an invitation to slow down and soak up the energy of this unique wellness sanctuary – the energy healing ritual and the feelings of fulfillment and wholeness associated with it – every conversation so instructive and inspiring with the wellness teams, especially Khun Sasithorn.
Beyond words, I want to celebrate the energies and moments that made this experience so powerful and authentic. An inspired and embodied wellness philosophy, guiding learnings in your own wellness journey and the most refined facilities. I was charmed by the personalized, comprehensive and sincere approach, genuinely focused on the guests’ aspirations.
Book Anantara Layan Phuket
Benefit from our expertise in wellness stays and contact us to organize your next stay at Anantara Layan Phuket and enjoying our exclusive added values.
Rates : Dynamic pricing based on the season and variable depending on the selected options. Please consult us to receive a personalized proposal.
Call us for France at: +33 1 85 73 22 14 or for Switzerland: +41 22 501 75 16 to discuss your wellness stay plans.
