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There's unbeatable, exclusive luxury to be found when you wind down at Amara Spa at Park Hyatt Dubai

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Observation #1: Park Hyatt Dubai is a gorgeous property. I'd thought so the last time I'd visited too, but years have passed since - and the hotel has clearly withstood the test of time. Its arched walkways would be a bride's delight, its gardens and wooded stairs an Instagrammer's dream. I was neither, of course, but exiting the property through a side entrance to walk the lovely route downstairs to the spa was a most pleasant experience in itself.
The Amara treatments are divided into four broad categories and presented like rare gems: Sapphire treatments are for relaxing and de-stressing, Ruby for revitalising, Emerald for detoxifying, and Diamond for stabilising physical and emotional imbalance. I opted for the Ruby: Botanical Arabic Massage - a one-hour session, featuring a "blend of Eastern and Western techniques to unravel tense muscles and and refresh tired minds". Perfect!
My recent spa experiences have invariably ended with my therapist and I chatting or laughing - not their fault, but it is a general no-no in the spa code of conduct. My therapist Girlie was warm and friendly, but allowed me to focus on relaxing during the session... so much so that I didn't even notice time slip by. Now that's an experience to remember.
Therapy time
The session started with a foot wash ritual, out in the private garden. My therapist then offered me a choice of three massage oils: lavender, peppermint and detox. The first was too sweet for my liking, and the second reminded me of toothpaste, so #3 it was for me! Most massages follow a 'face down, then face up' sequence, but this one was the exact opposite - an interesting change of routine. A heated pillow cradled my neck as Girlie used firm strokes and suitable pressure to unravel the stubborn knots in my body. In the end, you can choose to either have a 15-minute shower or 15 minutes to rest in the lounge/room/ garden before it's time to return to the real world.
What we loved...
The privacy! The room comes equipped with shower facilities, locker, dressing table, wash basin, and a secluded garden - no need to wander the hallways at all. What was not to love? The extensive music playlist deserves kudos too: I was torn between Celtic, Mediterranean and water sounds!
What we didn't...
That we didn't have more time to stay and relax, which was such a pity. But I'm also really curious about why after-treatment teas everywhere are always served scalding hot. I would've preferred to enjoy their exclusive Amara tea without burning my tongue!
Factbox
Botanical Arabic Massage
Amara Spa, Park Hyatt Dubai, located at the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club
Reservations: 04-6021660
Email: amaraspa.parkhyattdubai@hyatt.com
Cost: Dh585 (60 minutes)
Our rating: 4/5
karen@khaleejtimes.com