Chaa Creek Spa in world’s best list

The Lodge at Chaa Creek’s Hilltop Spa has been selected as one of the world’s top ten spa values by the internationally respected Gayot’s Guide, according to spa manager Bryony Fleming Bradley. The recognition is a first for a Belizean rainforest spa. “Many people don’t realise that we offer a professional spa with a range of massages and therapeutic treatments,” Fleming Bradley said, “So to be featured by such a highly regarded authority as Gayot’s is very satisfying.” Gayot’s “Guide to the good life,” which provides reviews on restaurants, hotels, travel, fine dining, wine and other topics, was launched by renowned French restaurant critic André Gayot in 1969 and is respected worldwide as an alternative to the Michelin guide. Gayot, who is credited with starting the term, Nouvelle Cuisine, has reviewed over 20,000 restaurants, hotels, and spas worldwide. The April 2013 online edition of the guide carries a feature, “Top Ten Value Spas” with the heading: “Get the best massage for your money at one of GAYOT's Top 10 Value Spas! Found in dramatic locations around the world from South Asia to the Adriatic Sea, these idyllic escapes provide a posh spa experience at a price that will put your mind at rest.” It goes on to review ten spas in locations as diverse as in Bali, Laos, Hawaii, Chicago, India, Ecuador, Croatia, and Thailand. After commending Chaa Creek’s commitment to environmentally sustainable travel the review states; “After a day of spotting exotic animals, hiking along a medicinal plant trail, canoeing at sunset on the Macal River, horseback riding or rainforest ziplining, guests like to chill at the jungle bar or relax with luxurious spa treatments.” Ms Fleming Bradley said she was pleased that Gayot’s highlighted Chaa Creek’s commitment to responsible travel in addition to providing excellent value for guests. “We are very proud of our green credentials, and continually strive to ensure that we provide an experience that is not only casually luxurious, but affordable as well. To be recognised for both these things from one of the world’s most respected reviewers is very satisfying indeed,” she said. “As far as I know, this is the first time a Belizean spa has made Gayot’s top ten list, and this is further proof that Belize is maturing as a world class destination,” she said. Chaa Creek’s Hilltop Spa is perched above the eco resort’s 365 acre private rainforest reserve and provides panoramic views of the jungle, Macal River and Maya Mountains as well as offering a variety of professional treatments, including the signature Chocolatissimo package, which utilises botanicals including pure Maya cacao sourced from the surrounding rainforest.