BONDING TIME

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OHLALA’s Fernanda Langhammer escapes to this serene oasis in the heart of the city with her partner to indulge in a couple’s treatment.


There are a few things in life that are a must and in Bahrain, going for a couple’s massage at The Gulf Spa at The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa is one of them. I have been with my partner for around 18 years, and we never thought of going for a massage together. However, now that we have, I truly recommend you try this shared experience. Whether to celebrate a special occasion or just to re-connect with your other half, you will thank me later! The spa is spread over three floors of pure bliss and ultimate luxury. It seems that when you step through the glass doors, you enter a completely different world. The vibe changes, the sound of water and the enticing smell take over, and you forget about the outside buzz and worries.

We headed to the couple’s suite, which at The Gulf Spa is a spectacle apart. The massive space was beautifully decorated with red rose petals, and the dim light just made it more special. Inside this private room, we found a tropical shower, steam room, sauna and Jacuzzi. The two ladies in charge of our therapies were the friendly Sukanya and Analyn. After introducing themselves they left so we could get changed into the spa’s robes. They came back and started the session by bathing our feet in copper bowls with a sugar scrub. The warm water and gentle exfoliation put us in relaxation mode instantly. Meanwhile, they asked us which body parts we would like to concentrate on during the massage. For me, it was the essential back and shoulders with attention to my right arm.

Long hours in front of the computer can cause some damage. My partner went for the same areas, adding his calves.There are a few things in life that are a must and in Bahrain, going for a couple’s massage at The Gulf Spa at The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa is one of them. I have been with my partner for around 18 years, and we never thought of going for a massage together. However, now that we have, I truly recommend you try this shared experience. Whether to celebrate a special occasion or just to re-connect with your other half, you will thank me later! The spa is spread over three floors of pure bliss and ultimate luxury. It seems that when you step through the glass doors, you enter a completely different world.

The vibe changes, the sound of water and the enticing smell take over, and you forget about the outside buzz and worries. We headed to the couple’s suite, which at The Gulf Spa is a spectacle apart. The massive space was beautifully decorated with red rose petals, and the dim light just made it more special. Inside this private room, we found a tropical shower, steam room, sauna and Jacuzzi. The two ladies in charge of our therapies were the friendly Sukanya and Analyn. After introducing themselves they left so we could get changed into the spa’s robes.

They came back and started the session by bathing our feet in copper bowls with a sugar scrub. The warm water and gentle exfoliation put us in relaxation mode instantly. Meanwhile, they asked us which body parts we would like to concentrate on during the massage. For me, it was the essential back and shoulders with attention to my right arm. Long hours in front of the computer can cause some damage. My partner went for the same areas, adding his calves.

We moved to the massage beds, that were placed next to each other, and faced down. They adjusted the beds’ heights to get the correct position for the treatment. When using the couple’s suite, you can opt for different Time for Two treatment packages. We went for the Swedish massage that involved one hour of therapy and another hour enjoying the facilities in the room.

The Swedish massage is one of the most common techniques created to promote relaxation by releasing muscle tension, helping to clear the body and mind of stress. It uses precise pressure and a choreographed series of movements, stretching the limbs to open the joints, increasing flexibility and improving posture. The back area near the shoulders was the most critical one for my partner and me, and when Sukanya and Analyn reached that area, both of us were emitting not the most delightful sounds. It was a mixed feeling of pain and relief, which means that we were indeed in need of professional care.

We hadn’t had a proper massage in a while, and well-applied therapies are like exercise; they force blood into your muscles, bring nutrients and remove toxins. I am sure I moved muscles that had never been used before. One of the things that caught my attention was that while Sukanya was moving from one part of my body to the other, it seemed like a synchronised dance – always keeping the touch when changing from one area to start working on the next. And the pressure would always begin from a soft touch to an intensified one. The entire session was done with a neutral oil, which was a big plus; I don’t really like strong smells.

The session ended, and Sukanya explained how to operate the facilities available while Analyn brought a tray with delightful sweets and tea. We were then left to enjoy the amazing space. I was impressed that everything was meticulously thought out to provide a memorable experience. The Jacuzzi was the ideal size for a couple, and the tropical shower, with its green light and nature sounds, was roomy enough for an enjoyable time. The steam room lets you choose the smell you want, plus there’s a button with a rain shower and extra steam.

This experience has shown that routine and everyday problems can sometimes be put on hold, and a deep connection with your partner can be created. This must-experience treatment is undoubtedly a way of achieving it. Massages are known to release serotonin, which is the hormone associated with happiness.

When shared with your other half, you correlate that feeling to the person. In a month where we celebrate brides and grooms, this experience is an excellent gift to the newlyweds. We left the room in a deep state of relaxation, and we were ready to face our family and work duties in a happier state and more united than ever.

For more information or to book a treatment, please call The Gulf Spa at The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa on 1771 3000 or 1774 6289 or visit
www.gulfhotelspa.com

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