5
Brent Maxwell (The Naked Doctor) 75 months ago
If your layover in Abu Dhabi is longer than 4hrs, seize the opportunity to treat yourself to this authentic Turkish/Moroccan bath experience. Call ahead 24 hours prior to arrange for pick up from the airport (it was much more expensive to hire a ride from the airport to Anantara Spa). Great service the moment I stepped out of the car and greeted by the doormen. Expected to be escorted to the 3rd floor where the spa is located. The waterfall entrance was the initial "wow" when I exited the lift to the reception area. The general manager and front desk team greeted me with a warm, sincere smile were welcoming. Preference is always given to hotel guests, but I was given the same treatment even though I was a walk-in patron. After selecting the spa package I wanted (Traditional Turkish Hammam) I was ushered to a consultation area (prior health concerns/informed consent), then to the mens changing room by my therapist. The changing room provided individual lockers and was VERY well equipped with any toiletry you might need. After draping myself in the robe and shorts they provided, I was escorted to the bathing area. The area where the treatment was provided...stunning. High dome ceiling, marble tile flooring, heated marble surface...words cannot do justice, but the pictures can! I began my session with 5 minutes in the steam room, followed by 5 minutes in the sauna, both to prep my skin and pores for the "soak and scrub". You can choose between a private (premium add-on) or semi-private session/soaking with your gender. I elected for the private experience (once in a lifetime splurge!). While lying on the heated marble stone, lots of water was poured over my skin for as much as 5 minutes continuously, then a full body exfoliation with moroccan lava for long time, the doused again, then another full-body exfoliation Turkish coffee/caffeine scrub for an equal amount of time. The therapist will ask your scrubbing tolerance level (mine was quire high!). After the final warm water rinse, the the essential oil infused soap suds were rubbed into my skin. ...Ahhhhhhh....the final shock was being doused with cold water at the end of the 30-40 minutes of scrubbing. That was a horrible, but necessary shock to my nervous system (I assume to close the pores). The therapist was able to converse with me throughout the session, which made it a more memorable and enjoyable.
Just a tip - remember to open your eyes and look up when being bathed. The view of the dome ceiling while lying on the hot marble slab.... it's to die for.
After the treatment, I was ushered into a darkened relaxation lounge , served water, ginger detox tea, a probiotic beverage, nut mix, and Turkish delight treats. Resting 10-30 minutes in the room to cap off my Hamam treatment. I wasn't full "resting", but immediately sharing my experience with my family via text!
Expect to have all 5 of your senses - sight, touch, smell, taste, hear- intentionally and pleasantly stimulated the moment you walk through their doors , until the time you leave.
A memorable experience. If your layover or stay in Abu Dhabi is long enough, then invest your time and money to experience an authentic Turkish or Moroccan bath at Antantara Spa. You will NOT be disappointed!