Be soothed by the best of both worlds

SPA INTERCONTINENTAL Bangkok does everyone who enjoys a little pampering a great service by avoiding the dilemma over whether Eastern forms of rejuvenation might be better that Western. Not everyone has the time (or the inclination) to experiment, so why not simply combine the two?

And that’s the luxurious solution on offer in the form of “East Meets West”, a two-hour treatment that merges the products of two top brands in the business – Thailand’s Primmalai (with a showroom at the Gaysorn mall and also selling well in London) and America’s Kerstin Forian.

It’s a wonderful pairing because all of their products are completely natural, so there is zero risk of an allergic reaction or in fact any kind of irritation.

You begin with a 60-minute session in which Kerstin Florian Caviar Facial is applied, with its nutrient-rich fish roe, collagen-boosting peptides and cell-regenerating Co-enzyme A. 

This is ideal for reducing the fine lines on the face, says Carine Peh, manager of Nethirin Ltd, which distributes Kerstin Florian in Thailand. It improves elasticity, regenerates the skin and restores minerals lost in the rigours of daily life, while also providing antioxidant protection.

I feel lucky to have Peh herself applying my facial, knowing she oversees the other therapists at the spa. “Would you like me to go through the products and explain everything or would you prefer to just rest?" she asks. Well, I would love to just rest and soak up the goodness, but of course I need as much information as she can provide. 

What I appreciate most about the cream are its “botanical” feel and the absence of any overt perfume that would overpower the sense that I’m getting help from nature alone.

As it happens, I have my facial after the body treatment, but the programme normally starts with the face. Next comes an hour of Primmalai Bouquet Therapy, which combines traditional Thai massage with special oils. The Primmalai formula – again 100 per cent natural ingredients – is said to resemble those of royal courtiers. 

The choices among oils are the scents of Thai flowers. I opt for Malai (meaning “garland”), which actually soothes with a variety of floral scents.

You can also decide whether you want light, medium or heavy pressure from the masseuse’s hands. If you arrive feeling quite stiff, it’s best to go for the light approach. You can always ask for heavier pressure as the rub continues. 

Two hours later you’re feeling almost weightless and far more relaxed, your face moisturised and glowing. 

Ideally you’ll have time for a shower, but I’m due elsewhere and have to get dressed right away. It’s no problem, though, because the oil used is of such good quality that it’s been absorbed completely into my skin, without the slightest greasy sensation.

 

 

A LITTLE GLO BAL MAGIC

>>“East Meets West” is available at Spa InterContinental Bangkok all through this month and next for Bt7,500 net. 

>>Spa InterContinental Bangkok is on 36th floor of the InterContinental Bangkok (near the Chidlom Skytrain station) and open daily from 9am to 11pm. 

>>Book a session at (02) 656 0444, extension 6288, or www.Bangkok.Intercontinental.com.