Anantara Spa

By: Misty Sloane

What: Anantara Signature Facial

Where: The Puli Hotel & Spa. 3F, 1 Changde Lu, near Yan’an Lu. Tel: 3203 9999. Web: http://spa.anantara.com

Why: You’re in need of serious pampering at an urban resort

How Much: RMB 720 + 15%

While not technically owned by The Puli, the connected Anantara Spa echoes the hotel’s masculine dark finish in its design. Flickers of the double length pool lit my footpath as I walked back to my treatment room where my therapist advised me to disrobe in the foyer of my room before entering the high-ceilinged sanctuary to relaxation. When I was ready to begin my treatment, I rang a gong and laid down on the heated table.

The 60 minute facial caters to every skin type; chamomile and jojoba herbal oils refresh those with dry skin, while lavender and honey are used to balance oily pores. Every pore is toned, massaged, moisturised and cleansed over the next hour, with special acupressure massages intermittently breaking up the masks. My dedicated therapist didn’t hold back, offering deep pressure to my most needed spots, then worked her way up to a relaxing scalp massage.

The treatment ends with an eye cream that promises to reduce puffiness and dark circles, a feat it delivered as my obviously sleepless night dissolved. A cup of hot rose tea and a plate of cookies finished off the experience.