WHAT’S IT LIKE? Themed as the Thai mythological Himmapan Forest, So SPA on the 11th floor of the hotel features a reception area that is bathed in natural light by day – thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows looking out to verdant Lumpini Park and an infinity pool – and lit up by sensuous candlelight in the evenings. Charming wall murals repeat the arboreal theme. Occupying 600 sqm are seven treatment rooms, including three spa suites, a “beauty area” for nail and foot care, a hamam and private changing rooms.
HOUSE SPECIALITIES From the wide range of treatments, there are a number geared toward the busy executive such as the 60-minute So Rejuvenating Facial, the 60-minute So Exhilarating Body Massage and the 90-minute Serenity of Five Elements (which can be shortened to 60 minutes upon request).
THE EXPERIENCE I chose the Serenity package, curious about the Lanna massage techniques used. After applying traditional Ytsara aromatherapy oil, the masseuse rubbed a warm herbal poultice on my body, which lulled my senses. Then with a small hammer, she tapped certain important meridians in order to “free stuck energy”.
The final step was a soothing body massage, enhanced by metal balls that seemed to rev up my flagging energy and leave me a new person despite having had only five hours’ sleep the night before.
VERDICT I would recommend this for anyone who needs an instant fix to get going, and the feeling of the warm poultice is simply indulgent. Consult spa manager Chutima Losakul after your treatment for excellent advice on detoxing.
FACT FILE
- PRICES US$126 for the Serenity experience, while the other express therapies start from US$79.
- CONTACT So SPA, Sofitel So Bangkok, 2 North Sathorn Road, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand; tel +66 2 624 0000; www.sofitel.com
Margie T Logarta
