Heavenly Spa
The treatment: Revitalize Massage ($160 for 60 minutes, $220 for 90). The experience: First-world problems such as too many nights out on the Rosé and jet-lag from a long trip home had taken their toll on my body: enter the Revitalize.
Given a cup of warm, detoxifying apple and cinnamon tea on arrival, I donned my exceptionally snuggly robe and slippers and was invited by my therapist (Riza) into the spacious and calming treatment room. This was after an hour spent roadtesting the hot tub with its fabulous view, and the tropical rain shower and steam room, available to all spa guests. After choosing my body balm scent of orange blossom and jasmine, while having my feet gently but thoroughly exfoliated, I slid into position on a comfortable bed. Even before the actual massage started, I must admit, I already felt super relaxed. It’s amazing how just an hour of “me time” can help rebalance the mind.
This unique treatment combines three cultures: Oriental, focusing on the back, using Gun Fa, a special rolling device; Malay, focusing on the abdomen, aimed at aiding digestion; and Indian, for the feet and legs, and using a Kansu bowl – a little metal bowl with properties that dispel body heat and boost energy.
I don’t want to be as cheesy as to use the term “cleansing the aura”, but the sweeping movements used in this massage, notably during the Oriental segment, really did leave the mind and body feeling cleansed.
The treatment was like nothing I’d tried before: relaxing while at the same time energising. The body balm has kept my skin supple and hydrated for a few days now, so it’s got staying power (and yes, I have showered!). And the combination of three techniques used in the massage means you don’t get bored during your treatment. (It sounds funny to think one would ever be bored in a massage, but you know what I mean!) Winding down: Riza rang the little bell and spritzed some scent over me to signal the end of my treatment and I was led to the peaceful ladies’ lounge. The curtains had been drawn (when open there’s an incredible view over to Chinatown!) and some hot green tea and superfoods were waiting for me. Guests can remain here for as long as they like and then go and use the spa facilities again if they wish.