International Leisure

Based on several factors that include lifestyle, retirement, opportunities for fun and investment, International Living magazine has chosen the world's seven hot spots for 2007. Still virtually unnoticed by the world's tourists, these seven regions are the best international real estate markets in 2007. They are:

1. Montenegro: This spectacular European country on the Adriatic Sea that many have almost forgotten has topped the list of best international real estate markets. The aquamarine sea, enthralling mountain backdrop, captivating summer villas and quaint fishing villages are just a few features of this jaw-droppingly beautiful country. An ideal tourist spot, this country has been adjudged the 'fastest growing travel and tourism economy' by the World Travel and Tourism Council.

2. Cartagena, Colombia: This is an ancient walled city embellished by magnificent Spanish colonial architecture and flanked by white-sand beaches. The city offers a warm weather, affordable lifestyle, and world-class diving and snorkeling for tourists and locals alike.

3. Malaysia: Southeast Asia's top retirement haven, country is a very affordable destination. Malaysia offers a western lifestyle and a host of attractions including modern infrastructure, cheap accommodation and innumerable cultural charms. Its beautiful white beaches and clear blue waters offer sailing, diving, snorkeling, etc.

4. Calabria, Italy: A sunniest corner of Europe, Calabria is a beautiful peninsula that is enveloped by clear silver-blue sea on three sides. Life happens in a very leisurely manner in this place that possesses all the charms of a medieval village. A promising real estate market, the region is well connected by the low-cost Euro-carrier RyanAir.

5. Ciudad Vieja, Uruguay: This is another of the world's inexpensive cities that remains undiscovered yet. The city has seen a booming real estate market since 1995 and the upward trend is sure to continue through 2007 too. Also ranked as one of the top 10 cheapest cities in the world last year, Ciudad Vieja remains one of the best places to invest this year.

6. Honduras Cloud Forest: With acres of mountain forests of breathtaking beauty, this mountain paradise is just minutes from a charming beachside town and an international airport. One can access this town by air in less than 2 hours from many places in the U.S. With the area poised for a real estate boom in a few years down the line, now is the time to buy.

7. Mexico's Flamingo Coast: An enticing stretch of coastline with dozens of quaint little beach towns, side-by-side, the Flamingo Coast offers great beachside living and a laid back lifestyle. Its warm weather, white sandy beaches, emerald-green waters and cheap rentals are some of the attractions the region offers.

Holistic remedies help thousands of people worldwide to overcome problems ranging from more serious diseases to the common cold. Holistic Therapist Nitchara Yimsuk answers some frequently asked questions, and tips us off about a versatile treatment called moxibustion.

What does holistic mean?

In holistic treatments we look at the whole person - physical, emotional and spiritual - rather than just treating the symptoms of the problem. We consider a person's mind and body, diet and exercise, lifestyle and relationships, work and leisure, achievements and problems. Imbalances in any of these areas can contribute to illness.

Where do holistic treatments come from?

Holistic medicine is also known as alternative, integrative or complementary medicine, as it complements conventional practices. It may include, but is not limited to, the following disciplines: spiritual, religious, newly developed approaches to healing or pre-modern medical traditions. Chinese medicine, for instance, follows the holistic principle.

How do they work?

There are many approaches, from energy healing to the use of natural and plant products. The Taoist principles, on which Chinese medicine is based, stress the oneness of everything, the inseparability of solid matter and energy, the fact that there is a common source of all phenomena and experience.

What are some of Chiva-Som's most popular holistic treatments?

The Detox Retreat is popular. It includes the Cleansing Diet, Colonic Hydrotherapy, Chi Nei Tsang and Acupressure Reflexology. Also high on the list are Flower Essence, Homeopathy and Moxibustion.

What is Moxibustion?

It's a treatment from Traditional Chinese Medicine in which the herb Moxa Punk is burned on or above the skin at acupuncture points. Sometimes we use other herbs.

How does it work?

The heat warms the blood and the qi (the life force), which improves the flow within the energy channels of the body. Sometimes Moxibustion is recommended as a stand-alone treatment, at others it has a synergistic effect with acupuncture.

Why is it so effective?

The Moxa leaf is bitter and acrid and its nature is pure Yang. Depending on the amount used it produces a gentle warmth or a strong heat and expels cold and dampness.

What is Moxibustion recommended for?

It's varied. It may be used in the treatment of acute diseases, cold syndromes, diseases of the channel and exterior syndromes, or chronic syndromes and diseases of the viscera (the internal organs). It's frequently applied in treating arthralgia due to wind-cold-dampness. Also Yang collapse syndrome; Chronic Dysentery, Asthma, Phlegm Retention and Flaccidity Syndrome. It's also good for some external syndromes, such as carbuncles and the common cold. Additionally, it can work in general health maintenance and disease prevention.

We hear it's also useful in pregnancies?

Yes, Moxibustion has been used for centuries in China to turn breech babies. The theory behind this practice is that the heat travels up the bladder meridian, which is linked to the uterus. Additionally, it's useful in treating some Gynaecological Diseases - such as Dysmenorrhea, Prolapse of the uterus, and Leucorrhoea - and Infantile Diseases, including Enuresis and Diarrhoea. Moxibustion is very versatile.

What are the latest holistic treatments that Chiva-Som is offering?

Vacuum-Cupping Massage and the Emotional Freedom technique are both new, and also Maya Massage, which is part of the Detox Retreat offered in the Spa.

How can people find out more about these remedies?

They can consult the website (www.chivasom.com), where there's a list of holistic treatments and a brief description of each, or they can visit us here at Chiva-Som. All guests are welcome, and we are willing to make initial consultations for every individual who comes.

Our team of Naturopath Doctors and Practitioners work in a very secluded and peaceful environment.