The real deal
Thai massage
What: Thai Massage with oil
Where: Relax Spa, Um Al Sheif Street, Umm Suqeim (04-3948500)
What to expect: I have been selfishly reluctant to write about Relax Spa for fear that it will lose its incognito charm and will no longer be my most favourite Dubai secret. While the spa is fairly no-frills, the back to basics, no-fuss approach is what is so very charismatic about this spa. The all-Thai staff offer massage and reflexology for men and women with the female spa upstairs and the men on the ground floor. The massages are with or without oil, or with a herbal aromatherapy compress. Jenny at reception will help you choose what will suit you best and even suggest the best therapist depending on your personal ailment, be it back pain or simply the need for pure relaxation. My favourite is the Thai massage with oil where my therapist expertly soothes my aching muscles, applying her body weight against my pressure points, and is not shy to climb up onto the massage table in order to get on top of stubborn knots. The treatment draws to an end with a stretching session, leaving you supple and bendy. Back at reception a mug of steaming hot green tea is waiting for you.
Need to know: If you are planning a massage at the weekend, book ahead, this humble spa is very popular with its local clientele. Call ahead for Ramadan timings.
Cost: One hour, Dh180 (cash only)
Fresh start
Body & hair makeover
What: Complete Makeover
Where: Juice Salon and Spa,Al Qusais, 04-2583750
What to expect: If you are going to a wedding or just a small party and are tired of your same old look, then this is the makeover for you.
My day began with a relaxing clean-up facial, which left my face fresh and glowing. This was followed by a stress-releasing manicure and pedicure, which includes a foot scrub. If you want to go all out with your manicure, a nail art option is available, but I stuck to a pretty pink in preparation for my sister's upcoming wedding. Next, it was my hair's turn. My stylist advised a new cut and colour (a yummy chocolate brown), and I was more than happy to take her suggestions on board for my new look. Once dried, I was then given an updated makeup look that was perfect for daytime wear. After four hours of pampering and preening I was blown-away when the new ‘me' was finally revealed. The darker tones of my hair colour and the very natural look of my makeup made me feel super glamorous and I left the salon feeling fully rejuvenated.
Need to know: The Juice Salon and Spa offers a range of other professional services including hair styling, body massage, reflexology and bridal packages.
Cost: Dh1,000, four hours.
full moon magic >> It's full moon on August 24, and Talise Spa at Madinat Jumeirah will be hosting an uplifting yoga session on the beach at 7pm that night where you can bask in the moonlight and tune in to the sound of lapping waves. Book before August 20, and the beach session will cost you Dh150 - plus you'll get a free studio yoga session thrown in too. Call 04-3666818 for reservations.
