Townhouse turned South East Asian retreat at Ushvani

June 17, 2009

Photo courtesy of Ushvani

LONDON, UK – The Ushvani Spa is tucked away in an unmarked and unassuming townhouse on a small street in Chelsea. Only the address, not the spa’s name, appears at the door. So, as I buzzed in, gave my name, and entered the spa’s reception, I had low expectations for the experience that awaited me. Wow, was I wrong.

The unassuming townhouse quickly became a full scale South East Asian urban retreat with dark wood walls complemented by regionally inspired carved designs and statues. I was immediately checked-in and welcomed with spa slippers, and led to the lower floor where I was given a locker and robe.

My massage began shortly thereafter. Ushvani offers a range of treatments including Malay Massage, Balinese Massage, Scrubs and Wraps. I, however, went for the 90-minute Signature Massage, which is kicked off by inhaling the spa’s signature balm. A heated herbal compress was then applied to my back which warmed me up for the massage. The massage then included a mix of techniques from Malay Massage (soothing strokes) to Balinese Massage (to facilitate drainage) and Thai Massage (stretching). It was very relaxing and therapeutic at the same time and seemed to go beyond some of the more superficial treatments offered by many commercial spas today. And I’m so very glad it was good because this massage did not come cheap at 200 GBP.

A great feature of the overall experience is the facilities that the spa has to offer. (Sorry, guys – while men can enjoy the spa treatments, most of these additional facilities are for women only). The relaxation room, steam room, vitality pool, and even formal tea salon ensure that you can spend well more than 90 minutes in pure decompressing bliss. And after spending a full afternoon relaxing South East Asian style, you will never ever want to leave.

Read more about Ushvani in our London Guide.

Ushvani Spa
1 Cadogan Gardens
Chelsea, London, UK
(44) 020-7730-2888
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