One Farrer Hotel & Spa
1 Farrer Park Station Road 6363 0101 | onefarrer.com
The treatment: Spa Indulgence for two, with an Ultimate Body Massage and Relaxing Aromatic facial (120 minutes, from $219). The experience: Located just above Farrer Park MRT (and round the corner from Mustafa Shopping Centre), One Farrer Hotel & Spa really feels a world away from the busy, hectic streets of nearby Little India. One of the first things that always hits me when walking into the hotel is the wonderful scent in the air – it’s a really nice touch and gives an almost immediate sense of calm.
Situated on the fifth floor, the spa is located next to a large gym and grand outdoor Olympic-sized swimming pool on a roof terrace with views of the city. After being introduced to our therapists, my partner and I were led into our changing areas (there are separate areas and spa facilities for men and women), and then along an expansive corridor, dimly lit with treatment rooms on either side. We were then settled into a treatment room, on a heated bed to warm up the muscles.
First came the massage, which focused on kneading out knots in every part of the body. My therapist was evidently very experienced, finding the most tense parts of my body (without my guidance!), such as my upper back, and paying particular attention to them. It was a soothing and effective hour that passed way too quickly!
Next came the facial, which uses the heavenly-scented products from French aromatherapy brand Decleor. After finishing a course of medication a few months back, I’m still suffering from sensitive and reactive skin, so my therapist adapted my facial to include products to hydrate and soothe rather than exfoliate and renew. After the treatment, my skin felt clarified and supple, and my skin tone was much more even.
Once the treatment was finished, we were then free to pass the time using the spa area’s various facilities, which include a sauna, steam room, whirlpool, plunge pool and hot pools. Winding down: After spending the next hour or two indulging in all these, it was time for a spot of sweet herbal tea to revive the senses. Stepping out into the hustle and bustle of the city, my partner and I both felt like we’d enjoyed an escape at a private little oasis.