Recognising each guest as an individual and offering holistic, tailored spa experiences with tangible outcomes, a visit to the One&Only Spa in Dubai is a must
By: Karishma Suri
Posted on: June 8, 2015
LF Says: ★★.5
In recognition of the many different ways each of us respond to the stresses of city life, my trip to Dubai taught a simple lesson – that stress is in the mind and the ability to deal with it is what makes, or breaks us. Housing a free standing temple of well being amidst palm trees, water fountains and what not, the One&Only Royal Mirage offers a quick lesson in the two Rs (relaxation and rejuvenation), so your mind better take note. With an entire spa philosophy pivoting around three different approaches entitled Unwind, Restore and Elevate, there really isn’t much standing in the way to help you find experiences which meet your exact needs of the moment.
Enter, at your own peace
Within the elegant entrance courtyard of the Residence & Spa lies the Health & Beauty Institute. A buggy ride from the Palace wing, it is recommended to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your appointment as you may spend a couple of moments admiring the architecturally impressive structure or browse around the retail section. Ensuring that each experience is absolutely ceremonial, carved arches, towering domes and the intricate design of the place add up to a short, but great escape for the mind. It also has a specially dedicated space for the Oriental Hammam.
“We strongly believe in providing an element of theatrical drama for our guests and it is the enthusiastic response to our property and service that bring guests back, time and time again,” says Olivier Louis, Managing Director, One&Only Royal Mirage and One&Only The Palm.
A menu for the soul
Walking up the stairs to the mezzanine level, peace and serenity will greet you as a smiling receptionist leads you to the retail section where ESPA products command your attention. Filling out our personal preferences form, a quick discussion with the team helped us in deciding which of the treatments would best work for that day. Being separate for ladies and gents, my selection was narrowed down to a facial while my companion selected an 'unwind' massage. Sipping on some fresh juice and water, the team explained that guests can journey through the full One & Only Spa experience, commencing with unwinding mind and body to release nervous tension and improve sleep patterns. Once relaxed, the body, mind and skin are ready to be restored through purifying treatments to cleanse and rebalance. Finally, the elevate collection of treatments focuses on raising energy levels, resulting in a sense of renewed vitality and wellbeing. That is their core offering should we wish to follow it, but having already made our selections, we decided to proceed with those.
Personal lockers and changing rooms occupied the next couple of minutes as we got into the robe, disposables and slippers. Heading to the relaxation room, I was impressed and rather pleased to note that it offered relaxation with a connection to their Arabic roots, what with the beaded curtain and dim lighting. Unwinding on one of the chairs, I sipped on some water as I waited for my therapist to prepare the treatment room. Five minutes later, she called out my name and I followed her through the giant doors to my room. As I was stepping out, I heard my companion’s name also being called out.
Your humble abode for an hour
Once inside, the dim lighting carried on and assisted my lazy slumber. First evaluating my facial skin under a magnifying mirror, my therapist explained that she would be offering a 50-minute facial treatment – Restore Oil Controller, which would be perfect for my normal skin. I was made to understand that this deep cleansing facial helps to regulate oil secretions while refining open pores, and help give my skin a clear look.
A naturally foaming cleanser made with Yucca, Sugar Beet and Honey to be followed by anti-inflammatory ingredients to help soothe, decongest and encourage a clear complexion, I shut my eyes and took a deep breath as she started cleansing my skin with the balancing foam cleanser. Following it up with exfoliation and toning, my most preferred part of the facial – the massage - with a balancing face treatment oil was perfectly coordinated with just the right pressure and touch to calm the nerves. Next came the head massage with a pink hair scalp mud followed with a 24 hour balancing moisturiser on the face.
Cleaning it off, my treatment ended, and my therapist led me towards the relaxation area once again where I sipped on some water and shut my eyes. A couple of moments or even minutes later, I was asked if there was anything else I needed.
His, peace and surrender
Opting for the unwind massage from their signature selection, men would appreciate this treatment for two reasons. One, the pressure is quite substantial leading to stress release and the actual feel good of a massage. Two, it actually provides an escape as you are alone in the treatment room left to your thoughts, opinions and likes.
Once in the treatment room, my companion was given three different aromatic oils to choose from - with the explanation that your body knows what it wants and will help you select what it needs. Selecting the lavender oil, my companion did a quick scan of the room along with his therapist to ensure maximum efficacy. From the temperature of the room, lighting, to his comfort, all was vital for the true unwinding.
A completely relaxing experience with medium to strong pressure strokes, my companion did find the need to stop his therapist a couple of times during the treatment and request the alteration of the pressure so as to ensure peace, and not pain. Fifty minutes and a slight pain later, he joined me in the relaxation area.
Blending fantasy and tradition, the spa gives local and international guests an experience that is not only highly pleasurable, but also inspirational. The mosaic of Arabian hospitality coupled with the elegance and luxury of the One&Only Spa provides the resort with the foundation to deliver care in an environment that reminds you of the temples of Arabia.
(With inputs from Akshay Suri)
LF Says: ★★.5
Coordinates: Al Sufouh Rd,Jumeirah Beach Road,opp Dubai Media City, United Arab Emirates
Ratings range from zero to five stars and signify the reviewer’s thoughts on the treatments, ambience and service.
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