ELEVATE to rejuvenate

Holiday Time

If such a thing existed as a prize for the spa with the most spectacular view, eforea: spa at Hilton Pattaya would definitely be in the running.

You might argue `why would that matter?' since spa treatments are generally enjoyed eyes wide shut. But 17 stories above and immediately overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, it nevertheless underlines its "destination spa" credentials.

Moreover, it's not a bad vista to gaze on from the baths in some of the treatment rooms. Nor to glimpse between the individual salas separated by Zen-inspired slate-lined pools. Nor to amuse oneself with from the day beds in the relaxation room to which one adjourns post-treatment, so as not to suffer too rude a re-awakening back to the real world.

One might also argue that the seascape somehow percolates into the psyche regardless of the direction in which one's face is pointing.

Anyway, let's just agree that it is a bracing environment in which to be, whichever way one becomes aware of it.  Nevertheless, it is not allowed to steal the show entirely in this privileged enclave of eco altars, exquisite essential essences and the products of not a little scientific research. Here lighting which brightens then softens guides you on a journey through walkways and ponds to lavish treatment pavilions and the overall impression is of being at the height of spa excellence as well as being several levels of consciousness above Pattaya's colourful corniche.

Getting down to practical matters, Hilton's global spa experience as it is expressed at eforea combines three distinct ranges of treatment focused on organic natural, scientific, results-driven practices that aim to give every type of traveller the unique therapeutic journey they seek. Take a seat on a high-backed curving banquette for your spa consultation and a signature glass of bright purple butterfly tea is served with a cold towel to mop your brow. Pick one of its transformative journeys of the senses and the simple promise is that you will "emerge brighter".

Then drift off in modern treatment rooms to a backdrop of signature aromas and soothing music as your therapist uses an array of exclusive products that harness the peaceful and restorative power of nature and some of the secrets revealed in the laboratory.

GENTLEMEN'S RELISH

My therapist, Khun Aom, starts with the de rigueur footbath, here billed as a welcome ritual.

The treatment I have chosen is the eforea signature three-part recharging massage men's journey, a problem-solving re-energising experience created especially for men using award-winning VitaMan products from Australia, lasting 90 minutes and costing a do-able Bt2,500nett.

It begins with Aom enjoining me to breath in and out deeply three times and inhale a delicious awakening spray, an earthy essence held together by lavender that spring cleans the sinuses and a few brain circuits in a jiffy. At this point, one is lying face down over a beautiful white flower arrangement in a bowl, noticed as one gets into position and imagined thereafter.

Aom kindly enquires about the temperature a few times; a good idea, as initial polite responses that all is well can leave one feeling too chilly or warm once she gets down to work. This then segues into an intensive destress treatment whereby warm rods of bamboo are rolled slowly and firmly over the back and legs. This feels quite divine and has a wonderful relaxing effect on the muscles and sinews.

Next comes a radically effective deep muscle massage technique which removes all tension held in the back, shoulders and neck, sending the body into the deepest sense of relaxation possible. I applaud the focus on the back because of all those hours spent hunched over a computer screen and the treatment is of palpable and immediate benefit.

Aom explains that the effect is similar to a good Thai massage that includes back flips but the technique is different, using stretching more than pressure pointing and bending. She also mentions that the treatment is most beneficial if taken a couple of times a month.

The last vestiges of stress are then made to disappear with a full body relaxing massage, which includes a deep head and scalp massage - all very good for relieving migraines, relaxing muscles and improving blood circulation.

I have no complaints about the subtle mood music playing but note that the iPod docking station from which it emanates means that guests are most welcome to bring their own playlists if they prefer.

Dressed again, I adjourn to the relaxation room, where the lights are dimmed and the curtain wall glass tinted so that the sea appears as if through sunglasses, putting everything in delightful perspective.

This time the hot tea that is served is an uplifting cocktail of ginger, honey and orange that has been in the spa manager's family for generations, a nice touch that immediately puts you into a state of calm and serenity. This is accompanied by a couple of floury Thai traditional confections. I wonder about the suitability of the sugar content but enjoy the snowy softness anyway.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Spanning some 880 square metres and with six private treatment pavilions, eforea: spa at Hilton certainly enhances one's experience of Pattaya.

Also worth noting is the Vichy Pavilion which offers a cocooning hydrotherapy spa experience by combining the healing powers of water with the therapeutic benefits of massage.

Check out also the eforea Signature Correcting Facials featuring a multi-acid exfoliation of the face and neck in combination with advanced microcurrent technology. The treatment includes a deep cleansing massage, hydrating peel off mask, a signature acupressure scalp massage and a cooling eye and face treatment.

Then again, the eforea Signature Radiance Facial is a powerful anti-ageing facial that taps into the benefits of marine collagen to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, combined with nutrient and vitamin rich marine algae that increases circulation, leaving the skin plump and radiant.

eforea Signature Full Body Repair, meanwhile, is a head to toe health and sensory experience synchronized with music. The treatment begins with an invigorating therapeutic mineral salt scrub infused with essential oil to the muscles to release energy flow.

As for the products, beside VitaMan the spa uses the Kerstin Florian progressive range of results-oriented European facial, body and bath products and treatments sourced from natural resources that include algae, mud, herbal extracts, thermal mineral water and essential oils, and LI'TYA which draws on the revitalizing and restorative powers of Australia's native resources to provide a holistic spa experience.

Regular visits are encouraged by generous membership programs, including normal
one-year membership (Monarch) for Bt10,000 NETT and Premium (Jezebel) one-year membership for Bt20,000 NETT. Besides tons of vouchers, members receive 15% discount on all spa treatments and 10% discount on products. Complimentary access to steam, sauna, Jacuzzi, relaxation and locker rooms is included.

eforea: spa at Hilton. HILTON PATTAYA. 333/101 Moo 9, Nong Prue, Banglamung, Pattaya. Tel. 038 253 000

Bangkok Post online classifieds

Try buying selling goods and properties 24/7 in our classifieds which has high purchasing power local expatriate audience from within Thailand and around the world.

Article source: http://www.thethailandlinks.com/2012/12/03/elevate-to-rejuvenate/