Aussies have been known to travel overseas for medical and dental treatments but some are now turning an overseas trip into a stint in rehab in the latest trend “rehab tourism”.

While the lure of cheaper facelifts, breast implants and dental enhancements drew many Australians overseas to holiday mixed with medical treatment, the latest trend is for travellers to combine drug and alcohol treatment with holiday activities.

According to drug and alcohol treatment facility in Northern Thailand the Cabin Chiang Mai, more Australians are utilising its services and now account for up to a third of its guests.

Combining a stint in a drug and alcohol treatment facility with elephant rides, cooking classes and white-water rafting at a third of the price of Australian rehabilitation clinics is attracting Aussies to stay at the Cabin.

While the fitness therapy and excursions are considered part of the treatment, the staff are quick to say it is "far from being a holiday".

According to the Cabin Chiang Mai resident psychologist Cameron Brown the Australian guests come from all walks of life, with the resort’s location giving guests anonymity while getting them far away from their usual routine and addiction triggers.