AsiaLIFE

Fronted by a lovely green garden, Amatak Spa is set in a large, modern villa. The sound of trickling water from the various fountains envelops the place, and gives the spa an air of tranquillity.

Opened around a year ago, Amatak now offers a wide choice of services. These range from massages through body wraps, to nail care and waxing. An additional draw is that Dermalogica products are used for the facials. A multivitamin facial including a head and leg massage is yours for US$45, while a 45-minute express facial costs US$20. The hour-long relaxing oil massage (US$20) is, as it says on the tin, relaxing. With calming music playing in the background, the masseuse uses long and strong strokes to soothe your tired muscles. Smelling faintly of almond, the oil makes your skin feel soft and supple. After the massage, or any other body treatment for that matter, you are welcome to use the steam room free of charge.

Beyond the regular options on the menu, an interesting service worth trying out is the hand or foot paraffin treatment (US$15). The latter treatment starts with a foot soak and scrub, followed by a lotion massage. The therapist then uses a brush to apply hot paraffin wax on your toes and calves. Several layers are applied, until your feet are entirely covered. The wax is very hot, but should not burn. The sensation is similar to pouring candle wax on your skin. Your feet are then left covered with towels while the therapist massages your head, neck and shoulders. Fifteen minutes later the wax is peeled off, and the treatment concludes with lotion and short massage. The result is soft skin and rested feet. People with arthritis often say paraffin wax treatments ease the pain in their limbs.

Tastefully decorated, Amatak Spa has a nice ambience with reasonably-priced services. If you have the time and the money, don’t miss out on the total body wellness package, which at US$80 includes a detoxing and slimming massage, an express facial and anti-aging eye treatment as well as an express manicure and pedicure. It lasts a whopping four hours! The spa currently offers a 15 percent discount on all treatments, and 20 percent discount on all spa packages between 9am and 3pm on weekdays. Walk-in customers are welcome.

Amatak Spa, 4 Street 228, Tel. 023 722 029. Open daily 9am-10pm.