CLEANSING FOR THE BODY AND SOUL

Hammam is an exfoliation therapy very popular in the Middle East. Hannah Nesbitt headed to Mondrian Doha to try ESPA’s take on this traditional treatment.

The perfect self-indulgent treat was provided courtesy of ESPA at Mondrian Doha. With views over the Lusail cityscape, this elegant and luxurious day spa offers the highest quality products and services to match.

Highly professional and well-trained staff provide treatments in separate male and female spa facilities, each offering equally spectacular and tranquil relaxation spaces.

From the moment you arrive at the spa, the care and consideration given to guests is of five-star standard. A spacious, open-plan reception area allowed for an initial consultation and a delicately presented, gently scented, warming face cloth and floral tea drink. Rabina, my therapist for the day, greeted me and led the way to the incredibly appointed ladies’ spa section.

First impressions of the adequately sized changing areas, with numerous vanity counters, were soon overwhelmed by the beautifully detailed, intricately patterned, pink mosaic tiling adorning the floors and curved walls.

The first of the relaxation areas was truly breathtaking, with its cascading crystal chandeliers and waterfall showers exuding grandeur and opulence. The spectacular tiling continued through to the second relaxation area, which included different seating options, to sit and take in the great views of the water and the reflections of the setting sun. The third and final relaxation area was fully enclosed to allow guests to switch off from the outside world and indulge in the whole experience. The wonderfully fluffy bath robes and slippers enable guests to move around the different spa areas with complete comfort and modesty.

As part of the appropriately named Love Yourself spa package, I was taken to the private Hammam area, featuring traditional Middle Eastern patterns and designs in relaxing white and grey tones. Calming low-level music gently floated through all areas, accompanied by the sounds of running water.

The different elements of the multi-step process of the Hammam experience were explained in detail. A Hammam is a traditional Middle Eastern cleansing ritual to purify the body, involving an assortment of steam, water, exfoliating scrubs and massage treatments.

The treatment began with an initial cleanse; warm water was poured over the body from traditionally designed, ornate silver bowls. Second, a refreshing green and black olive soap was applied to my skin before moving to the steam room for a short period. The process continued in the privacy of the individual treatment room, where a heated Hammam table was the focal point. The next steps involved floral-scented body scrubs to invigorate and exfoliate the skin, using gentle pressure to massage the body in the process. A hair mask was applied and massaged into the scalp to encourage shine in the hair and help with any issues of dryness or hair fall. A final rinse left my hair and skin feeling soft and wonderfully smooth. Throughout the whole Hammam experience, chilled water was available and encouraged, in order to maintain maximum hydration.

Following the Hammam, I was led to the equally tranquil massage treatment room, where ESPA products were carefully displayed in the dimly lit space. Once again, Rabina showed her skill and attention to providing a truly relaxing environment. Any problem areas were discussed, ensuring a specifically tailored experience.

Rabina maintained my privacy through her professionalism, ensuring the correct pressure was applied and I was suitably comfortable. And a final briefing was given, outlining any key recommendations for future treatments for any problem areas. Following my massage, the relaxation areas provided space to continue the peaceful experience; a haven of tranquillity following the extraordinary treatments. The day bed overlooking the twinkling night lights of Lusail city and passing boats in the nearby ocean offered the perfect place to enjoy a rejuvenating ginger tea, accompanied by a small dish of dried almonds and nuts to add to the authenticity of the Middle Eastern Hammam.

In addition to this package, there is a wide variety of other options to suit one’s personal needs, including their famous Ladies Wednesday package. An extensive range of products is available to purchase at the reception area to continue with the luxurious treatments at home. The staff were knowledgeable and able to explain which were suitable for different requirements. Attention to detail throughout was evident and added to the overall decadent experience. I left with an overwhelming feeling of inner peace and tranquillity and would highly recommend it for anyone conscious of their overall physical and mental well-being.

For more information or to make a booking,
please call ESPA at Mondrian Doha on 4045 5550.
@mondrian_doha
@espa_doha

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