I've just returned from Chiva Som and can unequivically say it was the best trip we've ever done. The service is in a class by itself. A gracious staff attentive to all our needs, the superior spa therapists and excellent spa cuisine made for a relaxing mind/body experience. The prices are incredibly reasonable when you consider that it is all inclusive of the lovely accomodations, 3 meals, all activities, and 2 therapies/person/day. Chiva Som truly deserves the "best spa in the world" ranking it has received. I recommend flying into bangkok for 2 nights and arranging Chiva Som's car service to pick up from Bangkok to Chiva Som, a 2.5 to 3 hr car ride. Very pleasant and allows more sight seeing. The night markets are interesting, with the one at Doi Tang the best one in Hua Hin. Make sure to save an evening also for a meal at Six Senses.

I went with high expectations and was thoroughly satisfied. It was serene, not crowded (right after the coup d'etat (that wasn't), and I had all the attention I could have possibly wanted. The food was excellent spa food and I was never hungry. I did the weight management program and lost 10 lbs. in 7 days. Happy, happy and am returning this weekend. The service was superior and the people were lovely and kind, always smiling. Loved it!!

Having seen the last review, I had to just say that I have actually been to Chiva Som and it really is a very special place.

If you are serious about putting some much needed time back into yourself, then this is the place for you. Wonderful staff attend to your every need. The retreats include a daily choice of massage, superb spa cuisine that fools you into thinking you are over-indulging whilst keeping the pounds off and a programme of your choice. My husband and I chose the Fitness Retreat last time and this time we will try the Yoga Retreat. There are endless possibilities at Chiva Som and you can nourish your mind and your body whilst enjoying the beautiful Thai weather and hospitality.

Some may think it expensive, but I think it is a bargain - you get SO much for your money and come away refreshed and raring to go again. Awesome!

I've not been to Chiva Som and unlikely to go:
I've been trying to book a stay in the first week Jan 07 for five nights. They inform me I need to stay seven nights - this is $1000 more and not what I want to do but I agree. On top of this, they charge a mandatory $250 plus 18% service for a new year's eve event, regardless of whether you attend or not (which I specified I would not).

After all this hassle, there's a bad taste in your mouth and you are not expecting to feel relaxed when you get there.

I'll book in the Banyan Tree instead.