Middle East Traveller

Category: Spas

  • The best spas in Paris for travellers from the Middle East

    The best spas in Paris for travellers from the Middle East

    The buzz of the boulevards quickly fades into the distance after stepping into one of these spectacular five-star spas for a Parisian style pampering with an Oriental twist. Book a stay at these ethereal addresses where you can dine in style, and these spas become your daily refuge.

    The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Paris

    Step off the fashionable Saint-Honoré lined with luxury boutiques dedicated to top French houses and slip into a haven of hedonism at Mandarin Oriental, Paris. One level below the golden entrance, follow the winding staircase of white origami blooms into a calming cocoon measuring 900m2. Each one of the seven private treatment suites – four of which are ideally suited to couples – includes a private changing area, bathroom and shower that cleverly converts into a steam room.

    With Asian-inspired melodies providing a soft soundtrack, indulge in the Oriental Essence massage, one of the brand’s signature spa therapies. Every ten-finger touch using Signature Quintessence oil blended with ginger, mandarin and frankincense invigorates the body during this heavenly 80-minute ritual. Guests of the Mandarin Oriental fall deeper into a trance with a leisurely swim in the 14-metre pool followed by a gastronomic dinner at 2-Michelin-starred restaurant Sur Mesure helmed by Thierry Marx.

    • Website: mandarinoriental.com
    • Address: Mandarin Oriental, 251 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001, Paris, France

    Ritz Club & Spa

    Extravagance is omnipresent when stepping through the entrance of Ritz Club & Spa, neighbouring the legendary hotel once frequented by Coco Chanel, Colette and Zelda Fitzgerald, to name a few. Outfitted in sophisticated art deco style and with an elevated ceiling, a dip into the 16-meter-long mosaic-filled pool proves a feast for all the senses. Following a steamy stop in the sauna and hammam, a signature exfoliating and firming facial treatment using Biologique Recherche will reduce any signs of fatigue.

    Reset and reinvigorate the body in decadent Ritz style with the Signature Rose Ritual. This fragrant experience includes a private hammam, body exfoliation and 60-minute massage, catering to exactly what the body desires. Noticeably lifted and relaxed from head to toe, stop at David Mallet’s in-house hair salon for a Parisian styling session before an exceptional dining experience at 1-Michelin-starred restaurant l’Espadon expertly concocted by chef Eugénie Béziat.

    • Website: ritzparis.com/hotel/paris/ritz-club-spa
    • Address: Ritz Club & Spa, 17 Place Vendôme, 75001, Paris, France

    Le Spa at Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris

    After swooning at Jeff Leatham’s dazzling floral displays decorating the lobby of the Four Seasons George V, descend into the tranquility of Le Spa — a refined composition of its own. Within the privacy of one of its six plush treatment rooms, invigorate both the face and the body with a 120-minute regenerating regimen helmed by skincare expert Olivier Claire.

    Need a skincare regime that stimulates cellular regeneration, reduces wrinkles and pigmentation, and boosts radiance? The Haute Couture Treatment by Dr Burgener does exactly that. Depending on your skin’s needs, effective skincare products are paired with advanced techniques including glycolic peels, diamond microdermabrasion and needle-free mesotherapy. The Japanese ancestral tradition of Kobido will also illuminate and sculpt the face — then cosy up in a chaise longue by the 17-metre swimming pool.

    • Website: fourseasons.com/paris/spa
    • Address: Four Seasons Hotel George V, 31 Avenue George V, 75008, Paris, France

    Spa Akasha

    Discover how the elements of air, water, fire, and earth lead to wellness when booking a treatment at Akasha Spa. The emblematic Hotel Lutetia, set in the very heart of Saint-Germain, dates back to 1910. The hotel’s rich history becomes a distant memory when entering the sleek spa. Beyond the dazzling swimming pool, six treatment rooms are dressed in marble and wood while delicate flowers and candles set the mood.

    Ninety minutes of pure bliss await when booking the U Beauty Precision Glow Facial. This heavenly treatment includes a lymphatic massage, a hydrating facial mask and a Chinese Meridian scalp massage, all leading to enhanced circulation. The result is youthful, radiant, glowing skin. For a shot of adrenaline beyond the detox drinks, book a session at the 100m2 fitness area where private yoga classes are among the offerings. Or simply dip into the jacuzzi for a different type of zen before lunch or tea at the Art Deco Brasserie Lutetia commonly frequented by Rive Gauche locals.

    • Website: hotellutetia.com/wellness/
    • Address: Hotel Lutetia, 45 Boulevard Raspail, 75006

    The Peninsula Spa

    When the Peninsula Hotels chose to open in Europe, the luxury hotel group made Paris’s elegant 16th district its home, with direct views of the Eiffel Tower. The spa at this prestigious address holds nothing back when it comes to opulence. Spanning 1,800m2 on the subterranean level, this Asian-inspired oasis features six private treatment rooms including two couples’ suites. After enjoying the steam room, sauna,
    experience showers and ice fountains discreetly positioned within the male and female changing rooms, uncover your second skin.

    A bespoke 60-minute “Seconde Peau” facial treatment uses custom-selected elixirs from Biologique Recherche. While the mind floats into a state of euphoria, the skin becomes visibly
    tighter and more toned. This all-natural treatment improves skin firmness and density through an electro-woven mask composed of 80% medical-quality hyaluronic acid. If you’re a hotel guest, take a moment to enjoy the 20-metre heated swimming pool — the perfect end to an afternoon of relaxation.

    • Website: peninsula.com/en/paris/wellness
    • Address: Peninsula Spa, 19 Avenue Kléber, 75116, Paris, France
  • Balinese tradition meets Italian chic at The Bulgari Spa’s ancient Javanese joglo house

    Balinese tradition meets Italian chic at The Bulgari Spa’s ancient Javanese joglo house

    Bulgari Resort Bali’s spa, a sanctuary perched precariously on the edge of a cliff, offers views so distractingly beautiful, they could easily be charged as an extra.

    One look out over the ocean and you’re grappling with the idea that perhaps the vista alone could unknot those pesky shoulder tensions. But no, you’re here for the massage,

    The Bulgari Spa itself is cradled within the ancient arms of an old Javanese joglo house, with its creaky teak bones and ornate carvings offering a delightful juxtaposition to the self-indulgent splendours within.

    The treatment room itself is a study in tasteful luxury – a blend of Balinese tradition and Italian chic, where the air is thick with the promise of relaxation and the scent of exotic oils.

    Your therapist sets to work. It’s a choreographed performance, blending deep massage techniques with an array of aromatic oils designed to rehydrate skin that’s seen more sun than it probably should have.

    You’re quickly transported to a place where the combination of human touch and sheer cliff-top opulence makes you forget the small matter of the bill that awaits – a hefty premium over local prices.

    Warm volcanic stones are placed on your chakras, which, depending on your spiritual leanings, are either the gateways to your soul or simply a delightful finale.

    Emerging from the Bulgari Spa, you feel like a new person – lighter, brighter, and surprisingly supple.

    As you saunter out, with the Indian Ocean as your backdrop, you can’t help but think that in the grand scheme of things, the higher hotel fee is a small price to pay for a slice of paradise.

  • Step into a private cocoon of jungle relaxation at the Six Senses Yao Noi spa

    Step into a private cocoon of jungle relaxation at the Six Senses Yao Noi spa

    Hidden among trees along winding walkways, each private treatment room at Six Senses Yao Noi is a cocoon of relaxation that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings of Thailand.

    The sound of rustling leaves, the gentle chirp of tropical birds, and the distant murmur of the sea create an experience that complements the physical benefits of massage.

    The Deep Tissue Massage is one of the most popular treatments on offer, designed to soothe, rejuvenate, and re-energise guests after a zip around the neighbouring islands or a visit to the resort’s Insta-worthy pool.

    The treatment fuses techniques designed to release stress, ease tension, and enhance both circulation and mobility, using a blend of gentle pressures and techniques through the deeper layers of muscle.

    From the moment the Deep Tissue Massage begins, it is clear this is a step above the usual hotel massage experience – not least due to the island surroundings.

    The therapist’s technique is nothing short of exceptional, combining firm pressure with a personalised touch that seems to instinctively know all the knots and areas of tension.

    Each stroke feels deliberate and skilfully executed – not just following a routine, but responding to the unique contours and needs of each muscle.

    The blend of essential oils, chosen specifically for their soothing properties, fills the air with a calming aroma.

    At one point, the therapist uses warm compresses, adding an extra layer of relaxation and helps in further loosening the muscles.

    It feels as though the treatment is being crafted in the moment, tailored specifically to the body’s responses and needs – making the massage not just effective but deeply personal.

    Afterwards, guests can extend their journey of relaxation in the spa’s meditation room – a space for quiet contemplation – or seek personalised advice in the wellness consultation room.

    The beauty room, sauna, steam, and shower facilities add further layers of relaxation and care, ensuring that each guest leaves feeling completely renewed.

    The spa at Six Senses, tucked in the forest, promises a layered approach to wellness that curates the best of science and human awareness.

    It’s a high-tech, high-touch approach that is entirely centred around the individual, promising not just a change in the way you look, but potentially, a transformation in the way you feel and live.

  • Sava Spa at Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach is a haven of relaxation in a busy corner of the island

    Sava Spa at Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach is a haven of relaxation in a busy corner of the island

    Sava Spa at Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach is a sanctuary of serenity and wellbeing, a hidden gem that unveils a tranquil world as soon as you step through its unassuming entrance in the middle of the resort.

    Surrounded by zen pools and a stunning multi-tiered pavilion jutting just above the water’s surface, the entry way opens out to a quirky entrance lobby, with a staircase leading to beautifully appointed treatment rooms equipped both for individuals and couples.

    During our stay at one of the hotel’s luxurious one-bedroom pool villas, a short stroll to the spa revealed an opportunity to indulge in one of Sava Spa’s signature 60-minute massages.

    This experience, combining a long strokes with the use of aromatic oils, promised an escape into a realm of ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.

    The massage itself was a blend of traditional Indonesian therapeutic practices and modern relaxation techniques.

    The long stroke movement, performed with expert hands, worked seamlessly to ease muscle tension and restore agility – a must after spending a few days dotting between the cafes and bars of the local area of Seminyak.

    The use of natural Vitamin E in the aromatic oil further enhanced the experience, leaving the skin feeling nourished and rejuvenated.

    The pressure applied was just right, targeting key areas of tension and providing a sense of relief and tranquility.

    Sava Spa’s philosophy of restoring vital connections between nature and mankind was present in every aspect of the treatment, from the bespoke massage oil – a blend of pure natural ingredients – to the holistic approach, which combines manual techniques with palm pressure and stretching.

    The spa’s body care collection, featuring local herbs, Balinese rice, and fresh sea salt, adds to the therapeutic benefits, making each visit to Sava Spa a whole new experience.

    The ambiance and decor, inspired by the Balinese subak irrigation system, further enhances the feeling of being in a serene, otherworldly retreat.

    With six couples massage rooms, each equipped with shower facilities and one boasting a bath, along with four single treatment rooms and a dedicated reflexology room, the spa caters to all preferences.

    The manicure and pedicure parlour, resembling a vintage apothecary and using natural nail treatment products and O.P.I nail lacquers, offers a touch of elegance and luxury.

    The spa team, well-trained in a range of methods from traditional Balinese and Thai massage to acupressure, adds depth to the treatments with their approach.

    This includes meditation, chakra application, and the use of self-developed massage oils and scrubs made from all-natural, locally-sourced ingredients.

    The Sava Spa at Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach stands out as one of the best in Seminyak, offering an unparalleled experience that combines the best of traditional and modern therapies.

    It’s the perfect spot for an afternoon of much-needed relaxation in a busy corner of Bali.

  • COMO Point Yamu spa offers waves of relaxation in Phuket’s Phang Nga Bay

    COMO Point Yamu spa offers waves of relaxation in Phuket’s Phang Nga Bay

    Few experiences compare to the signature Shambhala Massage at COMO Point Yamu in Phuket.

    It’s not just about the expertise of the therapists, or the unrivalled panoramic views of Thailand’s Phang Nga Bay from the stone-clad treatment spaces.

    It is about the holistic wellness experience – an exquisite immersion into relaxation and rejuvenation that begins the moment you step into the spa after leaving your room.

    Entering one of the striking massage rooms, following a welcome beverage in the lemongrass-scented reception area, your gaze is immediately drawn to the floor-to-ceiling windows flooding the space with natural light.

    The tranquil blue waters of the bay unfold before you, flanked by the verdant hues of the surrounding landscapes.

    It’s a sight that soothes the eyes even before the massage soothes the body, the backdrop of nature’s splendour enhancing the overall sensory experience.

    The real magic, however, begins with the Shambhala Massage itself. This signature hotel treatment, designed to rejuvenate the body and calm the mind, is delivered by therapists who’ve honed their craft to near perfection.

    Their intuitive, attentive approach ensures that the experience is tailored to your needs, making it ideal for anyone committed to improving their overall wellbeing – whether they’re new to the world of massage or a seasoned expert.

    From the moment the blended massage oils touch your skin, a wave of relaxation washes over you.

    The expert therapists navigate the contours of your body with precise movements, their hands seemingly guided by a deep understanding of the body’s harmony.

    The treatment is so soothing that staying awake becomes a challenge — a testament to the therapist’s skill in creating a serene state of relaxation.

    Awakening from this dream-like experience, you might feel like you’re walking on the clouds.

    The sense of tranquility lingers long after the massage has ended, gently reminding you of the care and expertise embedded in each stroke.

    Yet, for visitors, the COMO Shambhala Retreat offers more than just a signature massage.

    It is a fully fledged wellness centre with a wide array of treatments, its own pool with stunning Phuket views, experiences, and activities that promote physical and mental wellbeing.

    From traditional Thai massage to a curated schedule of daily activities like yoga, the offerings are designed to align the mind, body, and spirit — reflecting the essence of the Sanskrit meaning of ‘Shambhala’ – peace and the pursuit of balance.

    Whether you are here for a quick pick-me-up massage or a longer, more immersive wellness journey, your entire experience is nurtured from the inside out.

    From the first touch to the lingering sense of tranquillity that follows, every moment is crafted to provide a rejuvenation experience that stands unparalleled.

    If you are seeking a retreat that prioritises your well-being, where each detail is designed to relax and restore, COMO Point Yamu is a destination like no other.

  • InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah spa combines Emirati traditions with modern techniques for ultimate relaxation

    InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah spa combines Emirati traditions with modern techniques for ultimate relaxation

    The InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah’s spa is immersed in tranquillity, combining ancient Emirati traditions with modern techniques to nurture the body, mind, and spirit.

    The treatment philosophy is one of holistic rejuvenation, an ethos mirrored in the intricate blend of time-honoured rituals and contemporary treatments.

    Central to these offerings is the Hammam, a classic Middle Eastern treatment with roots dating back to the Ottoman Empire, and a grain massage that pays homage to the nine grains of the UAE.

    Treatments are performed meticulously, harmonising luxury spa products with authentic regional practices to create an environment of wellness and tranquility.

    The Turkish Hammam Discovery stands as a testament to this blend of old and new. The 60-minute treatment, priced at AED550, is a step back in time, embracing centuries-old bathing rituals while utilising modern-day skin health knowledge.

    The journey starts in the royal Turkish Hammam, where in a room filled with gentle steam, your pores begin to open in preparation for the steps to follow. The warmth envelops you, the air thick with moisture, creating an environment ripe for rejuvenation.

    Next, your body is thoroughly exfoliated, scrubbing away any accumulated dead skin cells – a ritual that echoes the desert winds shaping the dunes of the UAE, constantly renewing the landscape.

    The result? Revitalised, softer skin that’s ready to absorb the benefits of the next phase of treatment.

    Finally, a traditional Anatolian bubbly massage awaits you on a heated stone slab. The sensation of the gentle bubbles coupled with the warmth of the stone whisk away tension and stress from your muscles, allowing you to completely relax and absorb the benefits of the treatment.

    The journey culminates with a refreshing body mist, tightening your pores and enhancing the firmness and glow of your skin. This final touch ensures you leave feeling revitalised, with your skin looking and feeling younger and healthier.

    The InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah offers a spa that is a beacon of tranquillity and wellness steeped in regional heritage. Here, tradition meets modernity, and guests leave feeling revitalised, enriched, and connected with the culture and history of the UAE and the wider region beyond.

    When to go: Open daily 10am-7pm.

    Where to go: InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa, Mina Al Arab, Ras Al Khaimah (+971 7 202 6666).