Want a massage but bored of the regular Thai routine? Experience the long, gliding strokes of a Balinese massage

By Urban Escape

Daily Xpress

The name Mandara comes from an ancient Sanskrit legend about the gods' quest for the elixir of immortality and eternal youth. Step into a treatment room at JW Marriott Phuket's Mandara Spa and you'll find yourself in a private sanctuary dedicated to that age-old mission. Stops on the way include a personal changing room, restroom, Jacuzzi, outdoor pavilion and garden.

After changing into loose-fitting clothes, I rang a small gong to signal that I was ready for treatment.

I chose the Relaxing Package, and quickly surrendered my feet to a caressing shower of flower petals. Next came the scary-sounding "Tamarind Body Blast" scrub. No need to worry, though - tamarind paste, an age-old Thai beauty treatment, was blended with yoghurt, honey and rice beads to exfoliate, polish and nourish my skin.

After the "Blast", I was in for a pummelling - or so I thought. Actually, the Balinese massage threatened to soothe me into a deep sleep. Unlike traditional Thai massage, which emphasises acupressure and stretching techniques, the Balinese version employs long gliding strokes and firm kneading along pressure points. With the relaxing scent of lavender, ylang ylang and grapefruit essential oils wafting from her skin, this quester left happy. 

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Enter here for rejuvenation

>> Where: Mandara Spa at JW Marriott Phuket Resort and Spa

>> Must try: Mandara Four-Hand Signature Massage (90 minutes, Bt6,600); Romantic Getaway for couples (four hours, Bt16,500)

>> Call (02) 381 5340 or visit www.MSpa-International.com.