id you know that the first yoga pose was documented as far back as 3000 BC? In 1785, the Bhagavad Gita scripture, which has outlined the ancient principles of yoga since 500 BC, was at long last translated into English before making its way to the United States 100 years later. As the new year stirs our pursuits of healthier, happier lifestyles, yoga is once again at the forefront of our minds. The beautiful thing about yoga is that it can be exactly what you need it to be — a lesson in building strength and appreciation for your body, an escape en route to mindful rest, or in the case of travel, an incredible souvenir by way of an unforgettable mind and body experience. It is both personal and centering in the same way that travel is, and has inspired us to reflect on four luxury hotels
ALILA VILLAS ULUWATU
Uluwatu, Indonesia
The iconic Cliff Edge Cabana of this luxury Indonesia resort offers sweeping views of the Indian Ocean that are, during a private aerial yoga class, transformed in gravity-defying freedom. With an emphasis on culture and calm, prepare for the many transformative paths of this enchanting Balinese escape. Journey to your best self as you indulge in a rejuvenating wellness experience, journey to enlightenment on the same voyage of discovery that Dang Hyang Nirartha took, and, because this is a vacation, after all — journey to romance and gastronomy through Alila's inspired collection of intimate and authentic activities.
ANADA IN THE HIMALAYAS
Tehri Garhwal, India
The foothills of the Himalayas in Northern India are considered the birthplace of yoga. A typical day at this wellness resort includes a wide range of complimentary activities including a meditation session, a nature trek to the sacred Kunjapuri Temple, a spa treatment, and a gourmet Ayurvedic (alternative medicine) cooking class. One must pay a visit to the Ganges at Rishikesh for a truly spiritual moment on top of the already soul-stirring experience of your stay. In fact, Oprah Winfrey is quoted saying, “Going to Ananda is more like a pilgrimage than a visit.”
ANATARA GOLDEN TRIANGLE ELEPHANT CAMP & RESORT
Chiang Saen, Thailand
Mist-filled mornings, jungle-spa bliss, Mekong river adventures, and up-close elephant encounters all await you in just one day at this Northern Thailand resort. Ask about the dusk to dawn experience in a jungle bubble - a fully transparent, fully furnished oasis to observe gentle elephants in their natural habitat. The view from the resort’s panoramic resort pool (among the most stunning in all of Asia) is beyond fit for meditative practice. Join for group yoga classes or engage an instructor for one-on-one Hatha sessions.
AMANPURI
Phuket, Thailand
This iconic beachfront property is a self-contained sanctuary situated on an entire private peninsula on the shores of the Andaman Sea. Enjoy the absolutely idyllic gym view or glide into the main pool on a paddleboard for SUP yoga to the soundtrack of coconut palms — two of Amanpuri’s many fitness offerings. If you intend to further invest in your well-being, the adaptable wellness programs can be condensed into one- and two-day sessions, from resets to detox to weight management to mindfulness, leaving plenty of leisure time for other indulgences.
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