Nestled into the picturesque hillside in the bustling suburb of Rawai and Naiharn on the southwest coast of Phuket lies an unexpected haven for wellness. Chivitr is a small collection of profound residences of healing and health and the life’s work of Pornthip Noppakoon, fondly known as ‘Or’.
Steps away from a street that hums with activity is a serene oasis that offers a true escape from the maddening world. Chivitr is a place to feel safe and cocooned, nurtured and calm. Chivitr is an eclectic mix of Chinese, Thai and European interiors that seamlessly meld into unique living spaces.
Guests are encouraged to explore the wild elements of the tropical gardens. Every step showcases natural flowing water or a striking banyan tree with ancient roots enveloping modern aesthetics. Terracotta roofs sit atop traditional Chinese buildings cascading down the hillside, past granite boulders and bubbling streams. An oversized infinity pool nestles discreetly into this tranquil environment.
Phuket has a mysterious sense of tradition and a long history of Chinese settlers from the times of tin mining. Or’s ancestors who migrated from Hainan Island over 120 years ago were amongst those settlers in Phang-Nga, the province next to Phuket Island.
After spending most of her 20s and 30s studying and living in Europe, Or travelled extensively across the globe in her search for the precious land that would form the framework of her exciting project and vision. Over the years, many opportunities presented themselves, but none resonated with her so completely as this spectacular hillside setting. In 2006 she returned to her native island; as it was here, she had found home and ultimately found Chivitr.
Or has an extraordinary passion and exudes nurturing energy; she has sympathetically yet playfully paired old and new, east and west, and colour and hues of the earth in each residence interiors. Delicately carved furniture, extraordinary art, the most beautiful linens, and soft furnishings create a peaceful and calm escape.
Thoughtful attention to detail is everywhere; slatted shutters allow cool breezes to drift through the shady teakwood rooms. The retreat has octagonal pillars that form grand walkways and sala’s for dining under the stars. There are eight suites and four luxurious residences. Subtle references to the number eight appear throughout Chivitr; it’s an auspicious number in China.
The heart of Chivitr has a warm, personal touch and top-class services. A personalised daily programme is created and allows time to exercise, breathe, and rest. Or starts the passage of discovery with a one-to-one consultation so she can understand the nourishment and nurture needed for each guest. The healing tranquillity of this remarkable haven is restorative. It leads to a feeling of inner peace and a sense of revitalisation. Every World Bride should seek complete wellness and have a beautiful glow on her wedding day. Chivitr practitioners work to harness each bride’s inner health and vitality.
Tranquillity, attention to detail and customer service is paramount at the Chivitr Residence. Perceptive butlers attend to the guest’s every whim. Talented chefs create nourishing meals with locally sourced organic ingredients using age-old Thai recipes adapted with health in mind. Dishes vary depending on the seasonal produce available. Guests can dine in one of the many outside spaces, in the living room, their suites or the restaurant. Chefs can pack wicker baskets if guests prefer to take a tasty picnic for a day of exploring the nearby beaches on the island.
The southern coast of Thailand’s largest island boasts a myriad of exciting adventures like long walks on the local pristine beaches of Nai Harn, Kata or Karon or excursions to connect with sea-gipsies living in floating villages. Visitors can explore rain forests with gentle giants at ethical elephant sanctuaries or wander through narrow streets discovering historic Sino-Portuguese hubs of art, food and markets. The knowledgeable team at Chivitr can create a magical journey personalised to each guest; it is through their eyes and experiences that guests can enjoy the magic of Chivitr.
The team at Chivitr takes pride in creating a memorable experience that aligns with each guest’s journey to lifelong well-being and health, inspires fitness, and encourages self-care.
For more information, please visit www.chivitr.com and www.miskawaanhealth.com, info@chivitr.com, +66 (0) 76 388 838, Chivitr, 14/106 Moo.1 Rawai, Muang, Phuket 83130, Thailand.
