I tried it: Hot bamboo massage

The best part about taking a bath is that initial emergence into the tub of water. I love that strange sensation of dipping slowly into the hotness as the skin prickles with goose bumps to adjust to the heat. The shock of crossing such a temperature divide kind of stings, but it hurts so good. A hot bamboo massage is just like stepping into a bath over and over again, but with a massage thrown in.

Alternative therapies: Japanese monkeys knew about the health benefits of rocks

It is something the Japanese learned from monkeys, but the man who introduced ganbanyoku to Auckland says it will also do wonders for Kiwis.Ganbanyoku is a hot stone spa popular in Japan, where people spend all day in one - especially...

Amazing Yoga Retreats

Yogis (people who practice yoga) come in all shapes and sizes. Contrary to stereotypes, not all practitioners eat vegetarian and eschew the luxuries of life. Some have no problem dropping thousands of dollars on a decadent suite, while others stick to a tighter budget. Our list of yoga retreats runs from an ashram in the Bahamas where guests have to perform chores to the ultimate luxury in ...

Get into hot water

MANHATTAN OASIS Great Jones Spa Getting wet: As you walk into this cavernous spa, you know you’re in for a treat — the thick, humid air, faint chlorinated smell and chatter waft up from the sunken water lounge. You can spend hours there padding around in slippers and swimsuits while...

Entering the Tiger's Nest of Bhutan

Remote Bhutan may not be a bargain holiday destination but it offers Himalayan experiences to thrill the soul while testing the body.