The InterContinental Hua Hin Resort has a vast supply of luxury and pampering, yet the pinnacle of relaxation and rejuvenation there is surely to be found at their oasis of calm, known as SPA InterContinental. My fortunate mission was to uncover a few of the secrets of their wellness therapies, and explore just how soothing SPA time can be.
The spa is tucked away above the resort, seemingly far from every and all distraction. Stepping inside, the atmosphere is of a serene sanctuary from sight and sound to ambience. The décor is a subtle blend of contemporary Asian styles, with dark wooden tones, subdued fabrics and natural textures, offset by filtered natural light through signature carved wood panelling, featured throughout the resort. The SPA InterContinental is an integrated extension of the full expression of the resort philosophy, ideally complimenting their luxurious intentions.
Closing the doors on the outside world, you enter a cocoon of warmth and smiles from the spa receptionist and your therapist. Your consultation is made in the comfort of soft slippers, with a cold towel, refreshing bael fruit tea and some light fruit, as you explore the realm of facials, massages and other body and salon treatments available.
Both single and couples' treatment rooms can be booked, while specifically designed treatment rooms are set aside for manicure and pedicure services, and signature Thai massage. If you hanker for a steam and a Jacuzzi, your desires are also well catered for.
Once their knowledgeable therapists have assisted you in your choice, you are led to your personal treatment boudoir, complete with private toilet and shower facilities, to change into a fluffy robe that matches your slippers. The foot washing ritual is in a golden bowl, with white stones that are used to activate the reflex pressure points on the feet, and then a frangipani salt scrub is applied.
Prepped and primed, you are invited to take your place on the spa bed. The Oriental Signature Massage (4,500 baht++ for 90 minutes) is a fantastic representation of this spa, as a blend of Thai, Balinese and Japanese influences, the keys to the genetics of their spa concept, are utilized.
It is also ideal for de-stressing, releasing muscle tension and restoring an unadulterated sense of well-being: Shiatsu pressure points are triggered with thumbs; fingers tease out knots; palms wash away worries; forearms soothe what ails you; and elbows seek and destroy deep tissue stresses.
A heated butterfly pea balm, rich with essential oils, is heated and worked into your skin, which is first readied with a gentle dry brushing, to remove unwanted dead skin cells. This allows the skin to be fully prepared to welcome and maximize the benefits of the Oriental Signature Massage balm and leave you feeling truly pampered.
Nothing is left to chance in the entire process, as your therapist will ensure that everything is to your liking, from music, lighting and temperature, to varying degrees of pressure in different aspects of your massage -- all verified before treatment begins. Starting with the back and shoulders, long motions are drawn to the elbows, as if dispelling any negative energy from the body.
Onto the legs and progressing to the arms, your abdominal area and head will only next be massaged, if you are comfortable with it. I highly recommend you try it, as the strokes here are gentle and calming. The head, neck and décolleté are left until the end, with a reviving scalp massage that feels as if your brain is being reinvigorated, in an unhurried manner.
Assisted to seating position, a few light stretches and pressure points on the back ensure you can bring yourself upright again and rejoin the rest of the world unaided. The only possible way to feel more relaxed and shower yourself with more indulgence is to stay longer and try out further treatments.
For that, there is always tomorrow… You are left in absolute peace and bliss, to leisurely change back into your own clothes, until you are ready to take a spot in the spa lounge once more.
Here, you can also browse the selection of retail products on display, including British branded 'Aromatherapy Associates', the range used in the facial treatments at SPA InterContinental, as well as the signature SPA branded body oils, scrubs and balms, for a take-home treat.
Shopping aside, you can kick back and sip on hot ginger tea, while you munch on a few mini Thai coconut cookies, read a magazine or figure out what is next on the agenda for the day.
Dine by the ocean at Azure, relax by the pool on a sunlounger, stroll along the white sand beach or laze on the daybed on the terrace of your room. Decisions. Decisions.
SPA INTERCONTINENTAL at the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort, is open from 10am to 9pm daily. For more information, call 032 616 999 or visit http://huahin.intercontinental.com/spa-wellness. Reservations can also be made by emailing concierge@ichuahin.com.
