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Spa review: Akaru Spa

Going classic with a Swedish massage can leave you feeling blissful and 'fluid'

When someone attempts a massage for the first time, they're usually recommended the well-known (and well-loved) classic Swedish massage. A great stress-reliever, it involves gliding and kneading techniques that not only relieve muscle tension but also improve circulation in the body. It's been a while since I went in for a spa treatment, so when I opted to finally soothe my joints - sore from built-up stress over the months - I decided to take the classic route.

Akaru Spa is located in Jumeirah Creekside Hotel and run independently of the property. Though it has branches in malls in other parts of town, there's always something more reassuring about one that's ensconced within a hotel. The spa is inviting from the time you walk in, as you are given a drink and a refreshing cold towel that is only an indicator of good things to come.

The place does not have some of the 'extras' that counterparts do (think locker rooms and saunas), and we'd have appreciated a bit more interaction with our therapist (it's always good practice to ask about preferences and previous medical conditions). However, the overall experience left me feeling quite 'fluid' - which is a great marker of a good massage.
Therapy time
Using a combination of kneading, stroking and stretching techniques, my therapist wasted no time in putting a fair distance between my worries and me - if only for 60 minutes. The lavender oil used to aid the massage only served to cast me into a deeper state of relaxation than I expected it to. The pressure applied was just right, and although parts of the massage were a tad intense - working out knots can make you wince at times! - the overall effect served to leave me blissfully happy and most regretful that my time at this haven had come to an end.
What we loved...
Going in with low expectations (on account of online reviews) and finding that one really shouldn't believe everything one reads on the world wide web! The staff were quite hospitable too - happy to answer questions and give me a tour - which is always nice.
What we didn't...
During the course of the treatment, a rock band suddenly took it upon themselves to ring in the weekend early. Wherever they were in the hotel, they could be heard well over the spa music that was supposed to soothe us into relaxation. I guess we'd have appreciated better sound proofing!
karen@khaleejtimes.com