Ellenborough Park, set within 90 acres of idyllic Cotswolds countryside, is redefining luxury wellness with the introduction of the Japanese Head Spa, a first-of-its-kind offering among UK country estates. Just two and a half hours from London, the historic estate has long been celebrated for its timeless English charm and distinguished wellness offerings, now further enhanced with new treatments and immersive experiences.

At the heart of Ellenborough Park’s wellness portfolio lies the Spa Garden Retreat, a private sanctuary enclosed by historic cobblestone walls and lush flora. Guests can indulge in a glass-enclosed hot tub, traditional Scandinavian sauna, and an invigorating ice bath, designed to promote circulation and detoxification. Constructed with recycled materials and surrounded by native plant life, the retreat embodies the estate’s commitment to sustainable luxury.

The newly launched Japanese Head Spa elevates relaxation with a treatment that has gained popularity worldwide. Combining scalp massage, acupressure, and detox techniques, the therapy improves circulation, encourages hair growth, and promotes restorative sleep, making it a holistic experience that goes beyond beauty. This new addition complements Ellenborough Park’s six spa treatment rooms, thermal suites, heated outdoor pool, fitness centre, and meditation-focused Karma Room.

Wellness extends beyond the spa, as the estate encourages guests to immerse themselves in the Cotswolds landscape. Complimentary walking maps highlight scenic routes of varying distances, ideal for all ages. Guests can also enjoy countryside activities, explore chocolate-box villages such as Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water, and visit nearby attractions including Sudeley Castle and the Cotswold Farm Park. For equestrian enthusiasts, the iconic Cheltenham Racecourse is accessible via a private track, making Ellenborough Park a dream destination during racing season.

Ellenborough Park is easily reached in under 2.5 hours by car from London, or via train from Paddington to Cheltenham Spa, followed by a short taxi ride.

How to Book:

• Room rates are available on a B&B basis.
  

• The Japanese Head Spa can be reserved via the hotel’s official website.
  

• Guests may also book special events such as the Sunday Sound Bath Workshop (19th October) or the Align & Unwind Autumn Retreat (26th October), both with optional overnight wellness packages.
  
  
• For more details: ellenboroughpark.com.
  

Mai Restaurant & Bar, the signature dining venue at Meliá Chiang Mai, has launched a new menu that blends sustainability with culinary creativity. Situated on the hotel’s 21st floor, the restaurant offers contemporary Northern Thai cuisine with Mediterranean influences, complemented by sweeping views of Chiang Mai city and the iconic Doi Suthep Temple.

As part of Meliá Chiang Mai’s 360° Cuisine concept, executive chef Suksant Chutinthratip (Billy) and sous chef Karn Phojun have designed dishes that prioritize sustainability and local partnerships. The menu sources fresh ingredients from ethical, chemical-free suppliers such as Rong Khum organic farm in San Pa Tong and SEED in San Sai. In line with the hotel’s commitment to reducing food waste, the chefs use as much of every ingredient as possible, with leftovers returned to farms as compost and used cooking oil recycled into biodiesel.

The new menu features six appetizers, including Hoi Shell Samunprai with seared scallops, chili drops, and turmeric chips, and Khao Soi Salad with farm-fresh produce, khao soi dressing, and cage-free eggs. Guests can also choose from three soups, three rice and noodle dishes, and nine main courses. Highlights include the Cheeva Pork Chop with locally raised pork, Neau Yang Nam Prik Kha with Thai-Angus rib eye and San Pa Tong rice, and Kua Haam Gai Benja chicken roulade with sai oua stuffing. Seafood and vegetarian options such as Kanom Jeen Nam Prik Goong Pao (tiger prawns with curry sauce) and Yum Makeua Yao (grilled eggplant with chili-soy dressing) further showcase the diversity of flavors.

For dessert, the menu introduces four sweet creations, including Lum Yai Pudding, made with organic longan, butterscotch sauce, and coconut ice cream. The dish is part of the Organic Longan Project, a collaboration between Chiang Mai Green Kitchen partner restaurants and Rong Khun farm’s Farm Lab. The lab develops sustainable farming methods, including biochar application and microbial treatments, and serves as a hub for climate-friendly agriculture.

With only 38 seats, Mai Restaurant & Bar is both intimate and visually striking. Its design pays tribute to Chiang Mai’s cultural heritage, from temple-inspired arches to umbrella-themed installations referencing the city’s famous Bo Sang Umbrella Village. Positioned just below MAI The Sky Bar, Chiang Mai’s highest rooftop bar, the venue offers guests a refined dining experience that combines sustainability, culture, and culinary artistry.

Oman is making focused efforts to attract one million Indian tourists annually, according to a senior official from the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. Last year, around 7 lakh Indian visitors travelled to the Gulf nation, making India one of the most important markets for Oman’s tourism sector.

“Our aim is to have a million Indian tourists visit Oman per year,” said Yousuf Khalaf Al Mujaizi, Assistant Director, Business Development Department, Ministry of Heritage and Tourism of Oman. He added that the spotlight will be on weddings, MICE sector events, and adventure tourism, supported by multi-channel campaigns.

Highlighting India’s importance, Al Mujaizi said the country is a priority market due to strong cultural and economic ties. “India’s vast and diverse traveller base, interested in cultural and natural destinations, makes it a strategic focus for Oman tourism promotional efforts,” he noted.

The recent ‘Focus Oman’ roadshow held in Jaipur showcased Oman’s varied landscapes, rich heritage, and diverse tourism experiences. The event provided a platform for direct engagement between Omani tourism representatives and Indian travel companies. It also featured bilateral meetings, presentations, and participation from Omani hospitality operators, tourism institutions, and airlines.

Bringing together 25 Omani tourism entities and 150 Indian tour operators, the three-day event was aimed at strengthening tourism ties and exploring collaboration opportunities between India and Oman.