At Amara Spa aesthetics is not only skin-deep, it’s visual. The boutique spa is a design enthusiast’s oasis of sanity from the noise and heat of the riverfront. Its design-driven philosophy comes across in the broad strokes of the spa’s interior, achieving a contemporary Asian style that fuses the modern with the traditional. The finer design details, from the soft lighting and granite tiles to the various water bowls filled with purple lilies accented by a single orange chrysanthemum, make a trip here special.
A full-service menu includes massages, scrubs, wraps and facials. The latter are tailored for women using Comfort Zone products, an award-winning Italian spa and cosmetics line. The menu includes facials for men too. Massages have been crafted by an industry professional to meet the needs of Amara’s clientele. Techniques are hybrid, as seen in the combination of shiatsu, Thai and aromatherapy in the spa’s signature East West Fusion (90 minutes/US$35). The Ayurlomi Hot Oil Massage (90 minutes/US$35) combines healing techniques developed from India and Hawaii to eliminate fatigue and tension. Amara uses light massage oils from Thai brand Sukhita, that contrast with the heavier oils often found at other spas in the capital.
The foot massage (60 minutes/US$12) is comprehensive. Starting with a foot wash followed by a mentholated scrub with jasmine and jojoba oils, the actual massage covers leg, neck and back. The Action Sublime Anti-Aging Treatment (90 minutes/US$58) focuses on the face but to the benefit of the entire body. The treatment targets the effects of free radicals, sun exposure and general environmental pollution on the face, neck and décolletage. Hydration is central through a series of cream cleansers, toners, moisturisers and two separate masks.
The facial starts off with a thirty-minute back massage of aromatic oils. Luckily the massage component doesn’t end there. While waiting for various masks to weave their magic spell, the therapist massaged my head, arms and legs to promote circulation, and relieve tension and stress. The holistic approach of the treatment is a cornerstone of the spa. Fully relaxed and with skin feeling smooth and nourished, I was given a hot ginger tea to drink. A perfect note to end the treatment.
Amara Spa, Corner of Sisowath Quay and Street 110. Tel: 023 998 730. Open daily – 11am to 11pm.
Stories 
