AsiaLIFE

Located far out of town, the décor at Magic Spa is almost astonishing. Contrary to expectations, this is no regular Khmer massage parlour, but a modern and stylish site of relaxation and care.

Using high quality imported products, treatments offered include a wide range of massages (from US$12), facials (from US$20), exfoliating body scrubs (US$20), as well as nail and hair care. The place is on the small side, but given the out-of-the-way location, most patrons are likely to have booked ahead anyway.

For a body scrub and mask – recommended for perfecting that poolside look – you are stripped to paper panties, and asked to enter a steam closet. It’s hot and humid, bordering on the stifling, but great for opening the pores in your skin and as a preparation for what is to come. Some 20 minutes later you are laid on the bed for the scrub. At Magic Spa, ingredients used include coffee, green tea, turmeric and honey. With four hands rubbing the scrumptious mix from top to toe you can relax in the knowledge that every little bit of dirt and pollution will have disappeared from your skin by the time they are done. After being whisked to the shower, you are given a new pair of one-size-fits-all paper panties and again laid on the bed.

This time the paintbrushes come out and your body is covered in a mineral mask that sucks impurities out of your skin. As if that wasn’t enough, the plastic sheet you are lying on is then folded around you. Wrapped up like a pharaoh, the lights are dimmed and you’re given a lovely head massage whilst lying in state. Once the mask has dried and you feel unable to move, it’s time for a last shower to scrub off the pink disguise, followed by body lotion. It’s a US$40, two-hour session that involves a great deal of nakedness, but leaves your skin feeling soft and radiant for days.

For those living centrally, the location is a major drawback – situated in Atwood Business Centre almost halfway between the city and the airport. On the other hand, should you live in Northbridge or Toul Kork this place is ideal, particularly as there is plenty of parking space. According to the staff, a large part of the clientele so far has been local and foreign dignitaries, arriving in their SUVs.

Magic Spa is open 9am-6pm at Atwood Business Centre, 3E0, Russian Boulevard. Tel: 023 866 142