Clinton, BC, Canada: Baan Thai, the new rejuvenation centre at Echo Valley Ranch & Spa, is the first of its type in North America. Thailand`s top architect, Dr Pinyo Suwankiri, has designed the Baan Thai (meaning Thai House complex in the Thai language). This latest addition to Echo Valley Ranch & Spa, opened in September 2001, providing a bridge between east and west, in design as well as function. Echo Valley Ranch & Spa is located an hour`s flight from Vancouver, BC.

An atmosphere of tranquillity awaits guests when they enter Baan Thai. Welcomed with a cup of Jasmine / herbal tea, guests change into soft, loose clothing, to experience traditional Thai massage at the hands of professional Thai masseuses, together with yoga, and meditation. The spa at Baan Thai offers these ancient disciplines in the pure and pollution-free environment of the Canadian wilderness.

Guests may also book a range of western massages, hydrotherapy, aromatherapy, facials, pedicures and manicure treatments at Echo Valley`s spa centre.

To complement the spa program, Echo Valley`s Executive Chef offers guests healthy and balanced meals, catering to special diets. A full-time exercise instructor meets with each guest to plan an individual exercise program, which can include horseback riding, hiking and biking.

Nanthawon Dove, co-owner of Echo Valley Ranch & Spa, and of Thai origin herself, says: “Baan Thai represents the spiritual nature of life at Echo Valley Ranch & Spa: a celebration of east meets west. Echo Valley offers a haven for those seeking spiritual renewal, with a Thai influence.”

Dr. Pinyo Suwankiri, architect to the Thai royal family, has designed the traditional Thai structure of the Baan Thai. A combination of teak from Thailand for the interior, and Canadian cedar for the exterior give Baan Thai its unique appeal. Master Craftsman in Thailand carved many of the decorative pieces, which have been transported to Canada and integrated into the project.

The top section of the building is a complex of two Thai houses, a pavilion and an entrance gate, all surrounding a tiled courtyard. The Thai houses, with their Pagoda-like roofs, house a spa treatment room and a luxury suite. The Pavilion offers a shaded area to relax and drink “Numcha” (a traditional hand picked Thai herbal tea), while the landscaped courtyard is the perfect place for outdoor events. The 3000 sq ft ground floor is available for workshops, meetings and entertainment.

For more information on Echo Valley Ranch & Spa packages call toll-free: 1-800-253-8831 or visit the web site at www.evranch.com for a preview of Baan Thai.

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