What: Choco Bliss, Dh315, 60 minutes
Where: Taj Spa, Taj Palace, Dubai
Tel: 04-2113114
What to expect? A combination of Taj Spa's Chocolate Addiction and Choco Body Drizzle, this fusion 60-minute treatment harnesses the benefits of chocolate for a relaxing and skin-smoothing experience. After a brief consultation and some ginger tea in the candlelit relaxation area, I experienced a 20-minute pre-treatment ritual - sauna, steam room and shower followed by a relaxing foot cleansing and massage treat with herbal soap. This is complimentary and precedes all treatments here. The Choco Bliss began by being smothered in a chocolate cream, made from cocoa powder and various compounds like magnesium and potassium, which is designed to calm your spirit, elevate your mood and help stimulate the circulatory system. I was then wrapped in clingfilm and a blanket and remained warmly cocooned on my back for 15 dreamy minutes as my therapist gave me a scalp and face massage - a pressure point massage that helps relieve tension. After showering off all the chocolate, I was given a 40-minute all-over body massage with chocolate oil, which contains 100 per cent natural cocoa and a base of almond oil. "The chocolate oil improves microcirculation, softens and moisturises, while the aroma stimulates the endorphins - happy feelings - increasing your sense of wellbeing," explains spa manager Ashna Ddhannak. A cup of green tea in the relaxation area completed the experience, while the chocolate oil remained on my skin all day to further nourish and smooth. A great one for busy women, you get relaxation of mind and muscles, smoother skin and a sense of wellbeing all in one 60-minute package.
-- Kate Birch, Editor
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