AsiaLIFE

Cambodia is evolving into a spa centre for Southeast Asia. In addition to the major hotels, most of which have their own spa facilities, there are now a number of high quality non-hotel spas in town. AsiaLIFE twisted our intrepid reporter’s arm and sent him out to a sampling of local spas to have his flesh kneaded.

Budget

Massage parlours (have sprung up all over Siem Reap. As expected the quality can vary greatly. Both the Be V.I.P. and Dr Feet have fairly consistent quality. If you’re living here and on a budget, the best solution is to find a masseuse you like at one of these places and ask for them by name when you go for a US$6 massage. Both these places offer powder and oil massage and are “clean” massage places – no extras. The powder massage is recommended over the oil, as the oils tend to keep you slippery for ages. A fairly straightforward massage begins with a foot wash in a plastic bucket in the foot massage section of the place, followed by a jaunt upstairs to a multi-mattress room. Typically massages here are far less violent than Thai-style, though the masseuses are often not as professional as you might find in higher end venues. There can be chatter during your massage and the proximity of other patrons bothers some people.

Mid-Range

Bodytune, on the riverfront near the Old Market, is a reliable option just above the budget level. A branch of a Thailand chain, the masseuses are trained to a higher standard than the ones who work in the shops around the Old Market. Prices vary depending on style and duration, but you can get an excellent hour-long, full-body massage for US$14. The price drops to US$12 with a free massage every ten visits and a free massage on your birthday for members. The setting here is also more serene than in the cheaper spots – your feet are washed in a stone basin, the rooms are air-con and slightly more private, and the music is tasteful. Following your massage you are given a glass of pleasant tea.

Frangiapani is perhaps the most popular spa in town with expats. They have opened a second branch near the Central Market to accommodate the overflow from their successful place in The Passage. The massage starts with a foot wash, but with a warm cloth rather than cold water. A cold and soothing drink is also provided. For most massages you choose your oil at this point. Not your budget massage oil, these oils are light and pleasant, just choose your preferred scent or follow the advice given by the masseuse. Private rooms or rooms for couples are the norm here, with proper hole-for-your-face massage tables. The masseuses are well trained and it shows in their work. Those who want a strong, deep tissue massage should go for the sports massage (US$25 for 60 minutes), while those looking for a lighter touch should opt for the aromatherapy massage (US$22 for 60 minutes). The worst part of a massage at the Frangiapani is that it is so pleasant a return to the world outside jars your senses.

Located just above U-Care Pharmacy near the Old Market, Bodia Spa compares favourably with the other massages listed here. The couples’ package – consisting of a bath in their massive tub, a coating of some sort of oatmeal-like substance, and a really pleasant massage – is a great indulgence. The entire experience is serene and pleasant. For quality it is on a par with Frangiapani, and the sweeping design, created by ASMA architects, creates an even more special atmosphere. Slightly more expensive than Frangipani (Aromatherapy massage is US$26), this is worth a splurge.

Top-End

With so many luxury hotels offering spa packages, sometimes it is difficult to choose which one to opt for. A good bet is to visit one of the boutique hotels for your five-star pampering. Spa Indochine in the Hotel de la Paix has seven rooms offering oil and Thai massages (from US$45). They can also arrange a blind massage with the NGO Krousar Thmey. A welcoming lemongrass drink gets you into the right relaxed mood. The receptionist inquires whether you prefer your massage gentle, medium or strong, while checking whether you have any medical complaints. The rooms themselves are beautiful and calming, with a bowl of lotus buds placed beneath your face. The professional masseuses ask whether the massage is to your liking as their smooth strokes allow you to drift off. Best of all is the steam room afterwards. Infused with mint, the jets of steam are guaranteed to wash away any cobwebs you may have. Follow this with an al fresco jungle shower under the stars. The whole experience concludes with a camomile tea.

Part of the FCC complex, Visaya Spa is another top-end option. The standout feature in the lavish, yet petite, reception area is the fountain of running water for the window. A sweet tamarind juice accompanies the consultation while the usual questions are asked. The chief selling point in Visaya’s massages are the hot stones placed on your back, chest and hands during the massage. These stimulate the blood flow while the masseuse, with her choice of three massage oils, soothes your tired body. Body massages range from US$45 and include an invigorating session in the steam room.

Be V.I.P., next to Blue Pumpkin (Old Market), Tel: 063 760 841, open 10am to midnight

Dr Feet, Old Market, Tel: 063 965 034, open 10am to late

Bodytune, 293 Pokambor Ave., Tel: 063 764 141, open 10am to 10pm

Frangipani, 615/617 Hup Guan Street, Tel: 012 982 062, open 10am to 10pm

Bodia Spa, behind U-Care Pharmacy (Old Market), Tel: 063 761 593, open 10am to midnight

Spa Indochine, Sivatha Blvd., Tel: 063 966 000, open 10am to 10pm

Visaya Spa, FCC Angkor, Tel: 063 760 814, open 10am to 10pm