Fancy some pampering without breaking the bank? We visit Serene Beauty N Spa for some ‘me time’
After a consultation with our knowledgeable therapist, she recommends that we try the moisturising eucalyptus Moroccan bath treatment, explaining that eucalyptus is excellent for nourishing and softening our dry skin. It’s also an antiseptic, so it can be used to treat summer colds, sore throats, skin irritation and other ailments.
We’re shown downstairs to our private treatment room, the lights are dimmed and a refreshing aroma of eucalyptus wafts in the air – very relaxing. We have a quick shower then lie on the treatment table while our therapist lathers and massages our skin with black soap. Enveloped by a soothing cloud of steam, we’re left alone to enjoy the slight tingling sensation as the eucalyptus soap works its magic.
Our therapist returns after ten minutes or so, wearing a black mitt or kassa. Starting with our arms and working her way down to our toes, she scrubs thoroughly to remove any suggestion of dry skin. We flip over onto our front and she repeats the process. Finally, cool rose water is gently tipped over our body, and shea butter is applied to our face. By now our skin glows and feels unbelievably soft to touch – we look and feel fantastic.
Afterwards we lounge in the relaxation room enjoying ginger lemon tea. Reluctant to leave our blissful bubble, we figure that we may as well get our nails done too and visit the nail salon upstairs.
Firstly our nail technician removes the chipped varnish we’re currently wearing (it’s definitely not a good look!), and files our nails into square shapes. Next our hands are soaked in sweet-smelling salts to soften our cuticles. Oil is rubbed into the base of our nails, then our cuticles are gently pushed back and the excess is trimmed off. A chic poppy red polish is applied and we’re given a handwritten list of home care products to try – a personal touch to end a perfect afternoon.
Catriona Doherty
