At Loft Thai Boutique Spa & Massage, we have always believed that wellness is not just a service: it is an art, a discipline, and a way of life. Today, we are extremely proud to share the achievements of one of our most inspiring collaborators, Varinraya Ketngam Charles, who recently represented our group at the European Massage Championship. Among more than 100 talented competitors, she placed 4th—a phenomenal milestone that brings pride not only to our spa but also to the entire Thai wellness community.
As we celebrate this achievement, our gaze also turns to the future: the World Massage Championship in Copenhagen, Denmark, scheduled for June 27–29, 2025. Varinraya will once again represent our spa and brand, as well as the centuries-old tradition of Thai massage in an international gathering of elite therapists.
From Paris to the World Stage: The Journey of Varinraya Ketngam Charles
Born in Thailand and now based in Paris, Varinraya embodies the cultural richness and technical excellence that define Loft Thai Spa and its international branches, including Nakhon Spa Paris. Her journey is rooted in the classical traditions of Nuad Thai (traditional Thai massage), enriched by years of professional experience and advanced training with respected Thai masters both in Thailand and Europe.
Her unique ability to combine strength and gentleness in every movement sets her apart. “For me, Thai massage is a beautiful art form with its own charm,” says Varinraya. “Though it may appear powerful on the surface, each movement is subtly infused with softness, grace, and intention.”
Every treatment she performs reflects not only mastered technique but also a deep philosophy:
“Where my hands go, my heart follows.” This simple yet powerful principle is the foundation of her practice and the key to the emotional and physical comfort she provides to every client.
A Competitive Spirit Fueled by Passion and Precision
The European Massage Championship, organized by the International Massage Association, is one of the most prestigious platforms for massage professionals across Europe. With participants from numerous countries presenting a wide variety of techniques—from Thai massage to deep tissue, Lomi-Lomi, and sports massage—the level of skill and creativity is exceptional.
Placing 4th among over 100 competitors is a clear testament to Varinraya’s talent, rigor, and professional discipline. This success is the result of:
- Years of study at schools like Hattawikorn in Rayong and Ong’s Thai Massage School in Chiang Mai.
- Intensive mentorship with renowned masters such as Master Tui (Sukunya Le Bras), Master Apinya Nasaree, Master Thana Srisomparn, Master Suwit Sritrairasri, Master Sirimekha, and Master Wikit Kaewcharoen.
- Daily devotion to excellence at Nakhon Spa Paris, where every detail—from oil selection to the emotional ambiance of the room—is meticulously orchestrated.
This ranking is not only a personal victory but also a reflection of the philosophy and standards we uphold at Loft Thai Spa and its affiliates.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 World Championship in Copenhagen
Following this remarkable achievement, our attention now turns to the 8th World Massage Championship, taking place in Copenhagen, Denmark, from June 27–29, 2025. This event, organized by the International Massage Association (IMA), brings together the world’s top therapists in a hybrid format—both in-person and online.
Learn more at: https://worldchampionship-massage.com/
It is more than a competition. It is a global stage where therapists inspire one another, exchange techniques, and advance professional massage standards.
Participants are evaluated not only on their technical mastery but also on their ability to:
- Demonstrate creativity in execution
- Express intention and emotional connection with the client
- Highlight their cultural heritage in their treatment modality
Each participant receives a certificate, allowing them to promote their practice as internationally recognized—but more importantly, it is an experience of personal growth, international recognition, and cultural exchange.
A Message from Loft Thai Spa: What This Means for Us
At Loft Thai Boutique Spa & Massage, we aim to elevate the image of Thai massage on an international scale. While many know Thai massage as a traditional healing technique, we want it to be recognized as a refined wellness art, worthy of the highest medical and therapeutic standards.
Varinraya’s success contributes fully to this mission. It places Thai massage at the heart of international wellness competitions and confirms the power and potential of Thai therapists when given the opportunity to shine on the world stage.
We are proud to support her preparation in Copenhagen, with the backing of our entire team—from our therapists at Sukhumvit, Bangkok, to the experts at Nakhon Spa in Paris, Bucharest, Monaco, and beyond.
Preparing for the International Stage: Keys to Success
Competing at a global level requires much more than experience. It demands:
- Precision and discipline: every movement must be intentional, every technique perfectly executed.
- Wellness knowledge: understanding anatomy, physiology, and emotional healing is essential.
- Creativity: in competition, touch tells a story. A winning performance moves through rhythm and flow.
- Mental strength: maintaining calm under judges and cameras is a key skill.
For this reason, we have begun intensive preparation, focusing on coaching, refinement, and innovation. Our goal: not just to participate, but to set the standards on this global stage.
More Than a Competition: A True Movement
The IMA World Championship is more than an event—it is a movement to recognize the diversity, depth, and dignity of massage as a profession.
At Loft Thai Boutique Spa & Massage, we share this vision. Our mission has always been to educate, inspire, and deliver wellness through the five senses. From art exhibitions in our Sukhumvit 71 gallery to high-end treatments using CHANEL massage oils, Thai herbal compresses, and modern facial technologies—we redefine what a Thai spa can be.
By supporting and highlighting therapists like Varinraya, we aim to continue promoting:
- Thai heritage in an international context
- Women’s empowerment in wellness
- The fusion of ancient healing techniques with modern luxury
Join Us on This Journey
We invite our clients, partners, and wellness enthusiasts to follow Varinraya’s journey as she represents Thailand and France at the World Championship in Copenhagen. We will share news, behind-the-scenes content, and glimpses of her training on our platforms.
Even more, we invite you to experience her award-winning techniques firsthand at Loft Thai Boutique Spa & Massage or Nakhon Spa. Whether in Bangkok or Paris, you can book a session with one of our top therapists trained in this spirit.
Be inspired by her story. Let her hands and heart guide you to deep relaxation and holistic wellness.
In a world where wellness has become essential, we believe that Thai massage, practiced with mastery and intention, has the power to heal, inspire, and connect cultures. Varinraya’s 4th-place finish at the European Championship is just the beginning.
As we prepare for the World Championship in Denmark, we reaffirm our commitment to excellence, tradition, and innovation. Because at Loft Thai Boutique Spa & Massage & Nakhon Spa, we don’t just offer a massage.