Our Insider Interview series sees us speak to one of the team at one of the many luxury wellness retreats we offer and send clients to. Jamilya Sahin is the Wellness Director at Six Senses Kaplankaya in Turkey, specialising in luxury spa management. With 15 years of spa and wellness experience, Jamilya is passionate about promoting a sustainable healthy living approach. She has an impressive background, having worked with a variety of prestigious brands in Dubai, Kazakhstan and Turkey. Passionate about improving guest experiences, Jamilya actively contributes to enriching the holistic wellness experience at this luxury wellness retreat.
I’ve spent over a decade working in the luxury wellness and hospitality industry across several countries, including Turkey, the UAE, and Kazakhstan. My journey began with a deep-rooted passion for creating meaningful guest experiences; ones that go beyond pampering to support genuine transformation. I’ve had the opportunity to lead spa and wellness operations in renowned international hotels, manage pre-opening projects, and develop wellness programs that align both with local culture and global standards.
What drew me to Six Senses Kaplankaya was the brand’s commitment to integrative wellness and sustainability. It felt like a natural progression—moving from places focused on luxury to a destination that truly embraces wellbeing in a holistic sense. Here, I’m able to bring together everything I’ve learned over the years while continuously evolving within a setting that values purpose-driven experiences. The connection to nature, the culture of care, and the opportunity to create something meaningful for our guests every day that’s what led me to Six Senses Kaplankaya.
No two days are the same, which keeps things exciting. My mornings usually start early with some movement, yoga or a walk by the sea. Then it’s on to team briefings, guest consultations, and reviewing program delivery. A large part of my day is spent connecting with practitioners, refining our wellness journey, and ensuring each guest’s experience is personalized, seamless, and enriching.
We deeply believe that personal well-being and planetary health go hand in hand. Whether it’s sourcing local herbs for our treatments, reducing waste in our spa operations, or guiding guests to reconnect with nature, sustainability is woven into everything we do. Even our wellness screenings and programming are designed to encourage long-term lifestyle shifts, not just a feel-good moment.
It’s taught me that true luxury lies in meaning, not just aesthetics. Guests today seek more than massages - they’re looking for purpose, connection, and healing. My experience has helped me curate spaces and programs that feel safe, inclusive, and deeply nurturing. It’s about understanding each guest’s story and offering something that truly resonates with them.
We offer a range of wellness retreat programs from longevity and sleep optimization to women’s health, functional fitness, and Ayurvedic immersions. One standout is our Biohacking Recovery Lounge, where guests can experience infrared therapy, cryotherapy, and compression boots; all guided by our wellness team. At the same time, we have deeply grounding offerings like Watsu, forest bathing, and sound healing under the stars.
Everything starts with a wellness screening and an open conversation. We take time to understand the guest’s needs, lifestyle, goals, and mindset. Based on this, we tailor a wellness retreat that could include targeted treatments, movement sessions, mindfulness practices, and supportive nutrition. What makes the experience truly transformative is the presence, care, and intention our team brings to each moment—from consultation to the smallest service detail.
There’s a lot of exciting energy around longevity, energy medicine, and personalized wellness. Guests are increasingly curious about tools like red light therapy, breathwork, and vibrational healing—but they’re also seeking simplicity and stillness. I’m particularly interested in how ancient healing wisdom and modern science are coming together in more meaningful ways.
It helps me connect more deeply with guests and teams from different cultures. Wellness is personal, but also cultural—and having a global lens helps me create experiences that feel respectful, relevant, and inclusive. It also gives me the ability to draw from a wide variety of healing traditions, which enriches what we offer.
Start with curiosity, not pressure. You don’t need to change everything overnight. Begin by noticing how your body feels, how you’re sleeping, what brings you joy. Small steps—like drinking more water, moving your body daily, or getting proper rest—can lead to bigger shifts over time. And if you feel stuck, don’t hesitate to ask for guidance.
Balance, presence, and purpose. I believe wellness should be joyful and sustainable; not restrictive or overwhelming. It’s about living in alignment with your values, being kind to your body, and making time for what truly nourishes you—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Talk to one of our Wellness Travel Specialists on 0203 397 8891 or contact us here to discuss booking a wellness holiday at Six Senses Kaplankaya.
Join our mailing list to receive the latest news, offers & £50 off your first holiday.
