Devarana Spa at The Dusit Thani Hotel, Bangkok

This delightful new stylish contemporary Spa opened in October 2001. Devarana comes from Thai Sanskri and means A Garden in Heaven . It dates back to a period when a piece of Thai literature Tribhummikatha was written by Phraya Lithai. In the work the writer describes this particular garden as its sits at heavens gate, surrounded by other tropical gardens, beautiful flowers, waterfalls and nuturing environment, with a heavenly scent. In the garden, people can hear soft and lovely music played by harp, flute and other traditional instruments. In addition, the décor of the garden glimmers with silver and gold, and is filled with many pieces of natural stone and greenery.

This concept of a garden in heaven was influencing concept behind Devara Spa to excite the senses and make each guest feel truly special. That starts with the arrival, climbing the stylish staircase to the reception hall on the floor above. It is aif a stream is running down the middle of the hall and on the far side four poster sofas for guest to relax, sip herbal tea and select their Spa treatment. My shoes were changed for slippers while I made the selection.

I opted for the 90 minute Devarana Massage which combines all the massage styles to give a delightful heavenly experience. I was introduced to my masseur Tuu who led me to the Spa room. A feature that I do like is the privacy of changing in the Spa suite. It also has a separate toilet and shower cubicle. The décor contemporary and simple yet pleasing to the eye and soul.

When I had changed in to the dressing gown I was invited to the massage area of the room and ask to lay face down on the bed. Several times throughout the treatment she checked that I was comfortable with the temperature of the room, the lighting and the volume of the music. She started with my feet and worked upwards. Again she checked what pressure of massage I was most comfortable. The alternating strokes sent me into a state of semi slumber, and I had to regain my thoughts before turning over.

A sign of a good massage is that you never want it to end and when my time was up I was almost in another world. The treatment unhurried and relaxing. Devarana Spa was created to offer guests only the best spa service at selected five star hotels. East meet West the Thai Health and Beauty technique to pamper and invigorate. There are a total of 14 treatment rooms; one Grand Suite with private steam room, floral bath, massage area and lounge and luxurious shower room; four Deluxe Suites and nine standard rooms.

Devarana Spa, Dusit Thai Hotel, 946 Rama IV Road, Bangkok 10500 Tel (66) 0 2636-3600 ext 3665, fax (66) 0 2636-3630