Character, class and a dash of Donatella Versace – that is how we would describe the spa at the Palazzo Versace Dubai. While its facilities cater to men as well, we found the spa’s design is tailored to make women feel good. And here’s why.
The hotel’s hallway leading to the spa is filled with framed sketches of Donatella’s glamorous designs. We’re talking tall-legged models in dazzling gowns. It helps set the mood for self-indulgence as we reach the spa’s opulent reception decked out in signature Versace prints, lavish marble mosaics and fresh orchid flowers.
Led by the easy going staff, we arrive at the changing facilities only to be more impressed. Hate her or love her, Donatella knows how to design.
“I think glamour all the time. I wake up in the morning and I’m already thinking glamour,” she once said. And this is evident in the white birch wood walls, mother-of-pearl details, Versace furnishings and lit dressing tables that fill the spacious room.
Putting on an indulgent robe with Versace emblems, we headed to the treatment room to experience the 75 minute Kundalini soul nurturing massage “ideal for emotionally exhausted souls.” Judging by her work schedule and turbulent history with the brand, we are guessing Donatella would have recommended this herself.
The treatment uses chakra (or energy points) to channel the Kundalini – the dormant energy at the base of the spine – to release tension and negativity and bring the body back to the state of awareness and balance.
Our therapist Ruth started it out with a relaxing rose-petal foot scrub using eucalyptus and Himalayan salts. Because the treatment revolves around the back and spine, Ruth began with a deep-tissue back massage using medium pressure.
Though painful at times, her massage techniques eliminated much of our stress knots developed from too much time spent in front of the computer. Strong pressure was also applied to our shoulders and thighs while lighter force was used for the rest of our body. Next, Ruth used precious ‘positive energy’ stones on the length of our spine and ‘energy points’ such as palms and soles to further relaxation. It must have worked as we found ourselves dozing off towards the end.
Following our much-needed massage, we were directed to the relaxation area to enjoy the dreamy Jacuzzi situated above a ceiling of star-like lights, before relishing a cup of tea with a handful of sweet dates.
By the time we were done with the spa, we were feeling content, positive and stress-free. Our only concern was when we could return to Donatella’s wellness haven again.
The 75 minute Kundalini soul nurturing massage is priced at AED550.
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