Health care in the West can be hugely politicised, expensive and painfully slow, particularly in the United States. Its no surprise therefore that increasing numbers of patients are travelling to Asian countries for check ups and surgeries that are cheaper and more efficient. According to a study by Deloitte, medical tourists from America alone could reach 10 million this year and over 20 million in 2015.
Bangkok is a developing hub for medical tourism and hospitals see a large number of foreign visitors. Several hotels in the city have tapped into this lucrative niche and are partnering with top-notch hospitals to offer services or health packages.
Conrad Bangkok
Located near the city’s landmarks and attractions, Conrad combines modern luxury with innovation and elegance. It also focuses on well-being by offering guests a spa, gym, tennis courts and a rooftop running track.
The deal Although the hotel does not offer a specially designed medical package, Conrad caters for medical tourists by providing a doctors-on-call service in cooperation with Bumrungrad Hospital. Single room rates start from THB 3,886 (US$122) per night.
For more information, click here.
Intercontinental Bangkok
Situated at the heart of Ratchaprasong district, the newly renovated Intercontinental (see story here) is not only conveniently located but also well equipped with modern technology, a gym, spa, an outdoor pool and a total of seven food and beverage outlets.
The deal As with Conrad, though this hotel doesn’t have packages, it serves the niche tourism market by providing pick-up service from hospitals, doctors-on-call service and tailor-made meals for patients upon request where cooks will work closely with the physician for the patient’s nutritional needs. Single room rates start from THB 5,610 (US$ US$176) per night.
For more information, visit www.ichotelsgroup.com/intercontinental
JW Marriott Bangkok
Located on the trendy Sukhumvit Road, the flagship JW Marriott Bangkok is really geared towards health and well-being as it offers not only a spa, an outdoor pool and gym, but also fitness classes. Other facilities include six restaurants and two bars.
The deal JW Marriott Bangkok offers the Executive Medical Package for guests staying in the deluxe room. The package includes a roundtrip transfer to the Bumrungrad Hospital and a check up and stress test there. The package costs THB 14,800 (US$465), inclusive of the stay and transportation. Any additional check ups at the hospital start at THB 9,000 (US$283).
For more information, visit www.marriott.com
The Peninsula Bangkok
The Peninsula is located along the Chao Phraya River and its ingenious W-shaped design ensures that every room offers a wonderful view out over the river. The hotel prioritises guests' health with the Naturally Peninsula programme that strives to use fresh, organic ingredients in a specially designed menu featuring healthy dishes. Other facilities include a spa, gym, two tennis courts, three-tiered pool and four food and beverage outlets.
The deal The Peninsula offers a Health and Holiday package, which includes accommodation for three nights and a medical check up programme at Bangkok’s BNH Hospital. Round trip transfers from the hotel to the hospital are included. The package costs THB 30,000 (US$943) for a deluxe room, and THB 39,000 (US$1226) for a deluxe suite. The offer is valid until September 30.
For more information, visit www.peninsula.com/Bangkok/en
Michelle Fong and Nicholas Olczak
