Creative detox at Absolute Sanctuary - Koh Samui

We have received word about a unique kind of wellness retreat created by photographer Gaye Gerard in Thailand, combining three of my passions - yoga, photography and the beautiful island of Koh Samui. It's happening from October 8 to 16 at the five star Absolute Sanctuary, which got us thinking about a long held desire to try this beautiful wellness retreat that we've heard so much about. 

Created by Gaye Gerard - herself an avid spa devotee and a renowned professional freelance photographer with Getty Images (she's shot Eric Bana, Cate Blanchett, Miranda Kerr, Nicole Kidman, Beyonce, Pink, Megan Gale, Richard Branson, David Beckham and their friends!) - the Wellness and Photography Retreat has been designed for those looking to cleanse the body and mind and enhance their creativity with a camera. Guests on the eight day retreat not only get direct access to Gaye Gerard's professional photographic expertise and guidance but will also embark upon a supervised seven day full fast, light raw food fast or vegetarian detox with daily yoga, meditation and spa massage treatments, night market excursion and half day photo tour. The Wellness and Photography Retreat will also feature guest workshops on health and well being and includes all meals and detox supplements.  The cost is $2897 per person twin share. For more information on Gaye Gerard visit her website.

Absolute Sanctuary is well known as a wellness retreat on the island. It's a stunning, Moroccan-inspired boutique resort that is haven to those seeking a journey back to balance, rejuvenation and a healthy lifestyle - a place to immerse in, to cleanse, recharge and revitalize. They have amazing yoga programs, and their special programs range from anti-stress and burnout management for busy corporates, to holistic detox and juice fast cleanse. But that's not to say that a stay here is all about abstinence - Absolute Sanctuary makes sure you never feel lacking anything, and their Love Kitchen is testament to their theory that healthy food can be deliciously satisfying! Considering I've just emerged from a really hectic month with too much work (and a little bit too much socialising and indulgence!), a wellness retreat in a stunning locale is exactly what the doctor ordered!