Looking for a whole-body cleanse? Sanaa Choudry visited Saray Spa for a head-to-toe purifying session.
With lanterns strategically placed to give an iridescent glow, the subtle hue of amber candles emitting a serene scent and the contrast of antique cherry wooden décor, you’d be forgiven for thinking that you’ve stepped into Aladdin’s Cave of Wonders. Whilst you may not find a magical lamp, the physical and sensory experience found in the renowned Saray Spa is nothing short of enchanting, rapturous even. An easy-to-find gem located on the seventh floor of the Marriot Marquis City Center Doha Hotel, it is the ideal escape from the busyness and bright lights of West Bay.
And after a hard day at work, what better way to unwind than with a Moroccan Hammam and rejuvenating Intraceuticals Facial?
The delicious hibiscus tea and cool towel upon arrival immediately set the tone – worries and stress (as if by magic) are instantly lifted. Boasting nine treatment rooms, serene relaxation spaces and the added indulgence of a steam room and sauna, it’s no surprise that this is a popular destination for residents, visitors and hotel guests alike.
Sauntering into the relaxation area, it is obvious that careful and intricate thought has been given to the interior of the spa: from the bowl of white frangipani and pink lotus flowers which harmonise the senses, to the tasteful selection of diffusers and vibrant cushions. Nothing about the décor is arbitrary. In walks Anne – my wonderful therapist. With a warm smile and a palm already stretched out (to guide me into the bathing room), I hasten to begin my restorative treatment. After a quick shower to clear the dirt and sweat of this particularly humid Doha day, I lie down on heated marble.
The massaging of olive oil, coupled with the warmth from the mineral slab, loosens these sore muscles into an immediate state of comfort. Next comes the best part – an exfoliating scrub! As I sit up to prepare for the application of black soap all over, I learn that this particular purifier secretes deeply into the pores to soften skin, leaving behind a cleaner and silkier overall complexion. Working in circular motions, I am in awe at how – in mere moments – layers and layers of dead skin are buffed away. As requested, she focuses on the thicker skin, such as my knees, elbows and feet. Not one to shy away from the full spa experience, I delight in Anne showing me just what has come off to leave me with the softest and smoothest skin I’ve had in a long while.
For the penultimate step of this truly unique Hammam experience, I am slathered in a thick layer of rhassoul clay. Enriched with an assortment of delicious vitamins and minerals, it nourishes and hydrates my skin while Anne works on giving me a scalp massage, and boy, was it worth the wait! Working her way up from the nape of my neck, every ounce of tension melts away into the atmosphere, leaving behind nothing but the irresistible urge to slip into a deep slumber. A conditioning mask rescues my dehydrated locks, and I’m now ready to hop into the shower for one final rinse, accompanied by a lathery, oud-scented foaming gel.
Having thanked Anne, I head back to the relaxation area, where I take my time sipping fresh ginger tea and gnawing into juicy dates and fresh, crisp apple slices. With every muscle in my body completely at ease, for a moment, I almost forget that a regenerating facial with the finest products from Instaceuticals awaits me – what a treat! Escorted into a new treatment room, I emerge 30 minutes later with a plumper and brighter complexion. The lymphatic drainage at the beginning of the facial immediately reboots my skin, whilst the serums and hydra oxygen treatment quench my dry skin with a much-needed boost of hydration. Two hours in this sanctuary, and I am indeed a brand-new woman.
In a true testament to the Caravanserais, where travellers rested and recovered from the day’s journey, Saray Spa is a one-stop-shop for all things centred on relaxation, rejuvenation and respite from the hubbub of everyday life.
Slipping out of the robe and back into my normal attire, I cannot help but plan my next visit.
For more information or to make a booking, please call Saray Spa at
Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel on 4419 6090.
@sarayspa.doha
@marriottmarquisdoha