The best spas in Singapore and beyond

Would you like to unwind with a full body massage or a good foot massage? How about a couples spa massage, relaxing aromatherapy massage or a rejuvenating facial treatment? Read on for reviews and news of some of the best spas in Singapore, the region and further afield!

St. Gregory, Pan Pacific Singapore – Indonesian Balinese full body massage review

Stepping out of the poolside heat at Pan Pacific Singapore into the cool and zen St. Gregory space, I inhaled its gorgeous signature scent and instantly felt the hustle and bustle of city life ease. The modern, immaculate, tastefully lit spa is exactly what you’d expect from a five-star hotel in Singapore.

For my Indonesian Balinese full body massage, I chose the lavender relaxing oil, although I was tempted by the energising oil too. Once I was settled onto the massage table and ensconced in plush white towels, my lovely therapist asked how much pressure I’d like applied. Traditionally, this ethnic massage is designed to stimulate deep tissues, improve circulation and eliminate toxins. However, I’ve endured enough intense massages in my time. So rather than sit silently in pain trying not to shriek audibly, I asked for a lighter touch.

My masseuse was excellent. She applied just the right level of pressure with firm, rhythmic strokes to ease my muscle soreness and release knots while still making me feel relaxed. Expertly using a combination of deep pressure strokes, circles and percussion movements, she worked her way methodically around my body.

To the tunes of soft piano music, the first hour slipped by in a moment, so I was grateful for the extra 30 minutes. The masseuse cleaned her hands of oil before administering the final step, a lovely head and face massage. After the treatment, I had the option of a shower and blow-dry but I opted to maximise the moisturising effects of the oil on my skin. But I did make the most of the Elemis hand wash and perfumed Balmain hand lotion. The spa also has a quiet room with recliners to enjoy a post-pampering herbal tea, which was the perfect way to end my afternoon of self-care. I gave thought to a cocktail at the bar as I walked through the lobby, so I will have to return with a girlfriend next time.

Georgina Hockley

7 Raffles Boulevard, Level 4
6826 8140 | panpacific.com stgregory.ppsin@panpacific.com

Let’s Relax Spa at M Social Phuket – Thai-style full body massage

What comes calling after a golf or beach session? A spa experience! Luckily, there’s one conveniently located inside the M Social Phuket. The Let’s Relax Spa has a menu of signature treatments and full body massages. The latter include an Aroma Oil Massage and also a Thai Massage based on ancient healing techniques that combine acupressure, Indian Ayurvedic principles and assisted yoga postures. The spa also offers a full range of treatments including facials, body scrubs, baths and more.

The M Social Phuket is located in the heart of Patong and offers 418 rooms and suites along with two onsite restaurants. Need a break from relaxing by the two outdoor pools? Take a stroll to Patong Beach or jump on the resort shuttle for a quick transfer.

There are three room and suite options to choose from that include different extras. These include an ocean vista, pool view, jacuzzi or private balcony. Across all these options, you’ll also get high-speed Wi-FI and a voice control assistant. Plus a private mini bar, Nespresso coffee machine and 24-hour in-room dining.

Find out more and book your stay at msocial.com/en/phuket/m-socialphuket 

Saadiyat Spa at Jumeirah – spa massage inspired by Morocco

In Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Spa you’ll find a grand Moroccan hammam, where you can enjoy an ancient ritual of purification and beauty. Using the opulent skincare line Maroc Maroc, treatments here tell the story of sumptuous Morocco, and its warmth, colours and fragrances.

Maroc Maroc products aim to reinterpret ancient beauty customs using modern formulas, inspired by the soft atmosphere of the hammam. The products, which include a black olive soap, purifying rhassoul and sweet almond and rose water, are said to be inspired by a ritual or ingredient that evokes a facet of Morocco.  They even evoke the country’s textures: from the sands of Agadir beaches, to Essaouira, a semi-desert regions where the prodigious argan tree grows. Meanwhile, the subtle fragrances in these skincare products remind you of warm winds crossing over orange groves or sweet-scented valleys.

The 60-minute Moroccan Hammam Ceremony combines luxurious techniques and Maroc Maroc’s favourite products for an experience of absolute wellbeing. Steam from the hamman assists in aiding muscle relaxation. It also allows the skin to soften in preparation for the cleansing, exfoliation and detoxifying ritual. Traditional olive paste is used in combination with the steam to help soften the skin, followed by exfoliation, body balm and an ultra-purifying scrub. A deeply therapeutic rhassoul clay mask is complimented with a full body massage infused with orange blossom extract. This true sensual journey is designed to transport you to the heart of Morocco!

Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort Abu Dhabi, UAE
jumeirah.com

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This article first appeared in Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!