For a truly rejuvenating experience, Apple Sharma embarked on a wellness journey to explore a world of sensory delights at The Domain Hotel and Spa’s VIE Lifestyle Lab.
The Holy Month of Ramadan is all about slowing down, calm retrospection and restoring your mind and body. So, when I had the opportunity to spend a few luxurious hours of me-time at VIE Lifestyle Lab, I welcomed it with open arms.
Perched on the 15th floor of the hotel, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, lies this hidden gem of tranquillity. As I entered the space, I was greeted by the friendly Sonam Dema, who oversees the spa, and the hotel’s lovely marketing manager, Amna Yousif. They welcomed me warmly and gave me a tour of the facility, setting the stage for the relaxing experience that was to follow.
The first thing that struck me was the delightful fragrance of lemongrass that filled the air, creating a soothing atmosphere. The spa’s décor is minimalist yet inviting, with beige walkways that instantly put me at ease. The L-shaped corridor leading to the treatment rooms had a warm glow, lit up with realistic-looking electric candles, adding to the spa’s cosy ambience.
The spa features five beautifully appointed treatment rooms, each named after trees such as Oak, Pine, Maple and Willow. According to Sonam, these names symbolise life, which is fitting for a spa named VIE, meaning life in French. The rooms are adorned with elegant white name plates featuring gold lettering with the signature VIE leaf logo and silk ropes, adding a touch of opulence.
For my spa day, I had the pleasure of experiencing three treatments: a 60-minute Relaxing Massage, a 30-minute Multi Jet Hydrotherapy Bath and a Colour Therapy session. Each treatment has been designed to enhance your well-being and soothe the mind, body and soul.
RELAXING MASSAGE
My wonderful therapist, Wilma, greeted me warmly and led me to the immaculately prepared twin room named Willow I and II. It was beautifully decorated with candlelight and flowers and the sweet smell of jasmine wafted through the air as I walked in. The massage bed was prepped with tealcoloured towels and rose petals, with soft, calming music creating a welcoming and tranquil setting. I had begun to relax even before the treatment had started.
As I lay flat on my stomach, Wilma asked if I preferred jasmine or lavender oil for my massage and if there were any particular areas that required extra attention. I chose lavender and asked for some extra TLC for my lower back and feet. She started on my shoulders and worked her way down to my feet, expertly massaging and kneading my body. Her hands worked their magic and the pressure was just perfect, not too soft or too hard, making me drift into a slumber-like state almost immediately.
My deep thoughts of seaside escapes and Wilma’s deep massage made me feel as if a giant soothing wave had taken over. The session ended with a face and head massage, leaving me in a state of blissful relaxation.
MULTI JET HYDROTHERAPY BATH
Completely rejuvenated, my next experience took me to the Maple room for the hydrotherapy bath. The room emanated a lovely aroma and the tub was prepared with bath salts and luxurious bubble soap. Hydrotherapy is known to dilate blood vessels and is considered an anti-cellulite and detoxifying therapy. The powerful underwater massage tub has more than 250 jets, which create oxygenated bubbles, promoting deep relaxation and soothing sore muscles.
As I soaked in the warm, foaming water, I felt all my tension melt away, with the tiny water jets massaging every inch of my body and making me feel completely relaxed. The bath was enhanced with colour therapy through the use of LEDs in the tub that changed colour to give the whole experience an ethereal touch. The treatment lasts 30 minutes but you’re free to stop when you feel you’ve reaped the benefits. I chose 15-20 minutes and after a quick shower, I was ready for the last step of my spa journey.
COLOUR THERAPY
This vibrant therapy session took place in the Eucalyptus room, which was infused with the comforting scents of lemongrass. The small and intimate area had three relaxing pods (much like sun beds), each lit up in a different hue. A steaming cup of camomile tea was waiting for me as I made myself comfortable in one of the illuminated pods, which had three settings: red (activity), green (vitality) and blue (silent), each representing a different aura. Although I tried all the colours, I ultimately chose the red light, which had an energising yet calming effect – a befitting sensory finish that summarised my entire experience. In addition to the spa, The Domain offers a state-of-the-art fitness centre on the same floor, with stunning views of Bahrain’s skyline. For those looking to unwind, the hotel’s indoor infinity pool on the 36th floor provides the perfect retreat after a long day. Any spa treatment includes complimentary access to the sauna, steam and colour therapy room.
The spa’s tranquil ambience, expert therapists and luxurious treatments make it a must-visit for anyone looking to escape the stress of daily life and indulge in a moment of rest and relaxation. My experience at VIE Lifestyle Lab left me thoroughly reinvigorated and I eagerly await my next visit!
For more information or to make a booking, please call VIE Lifestyle Lab at
The Domain Hotel and Spa on 1600 0000.
@viespa.bh
@domainbahrain