Massage
The "Ultimate Indulgence" lives up to its name. Two therapists work on you simultaneously and in synchrony. The feeling of four hands kneeding out those knots in your muscles is more than twice as good as two hands! This massage treatment will spoil you for the rest of your cruise (and when you get home.)
When I saw the "Hot Lava Rock" massage on the Mandara Spa menu, I decided I had to try it. After all, it met my criteria of cruise vacation self-indulgence! The therapist first steams smooth rocks covered in cocoa butter. She then glides these warm rocks over your body. When the rock first comes into contact with your skin, it is like a smooth, warm heating pad being applied with pressure. The heat starts in one small place, but quickly spreads deeply into your muscles as the therapist moves it across your body. This massage is not as deep as a traditional massage, but is just perfect for those who really don't want to be "prodded" too much.
Either of these massages will provide a quiet respite to your hectic life. What a great sensation to be massaged with four hands or with hot rocks, and you can imagine the eyes rolling at the office when you describe one (or both) of these delightful pamperings!
The Mandara Spas also have several other types of more traditional massages. My friend Juanda enjoyed her massage on the Silver Shadow so much that she went back for another session before the end of our cruise.
Some Tips for All Cruise Spas
If you are planning a spa treatment on any cruise, you might want to book your appointment early. Sea days always fill up fast. I leave all my jewelry in the cabin safe and wear a robe. Since your hair and make-up will probably end up a mess, there's no need to go to the spa looking your best. After all, you will come away feeling better than when you went in. Be sure to be prompt, or even a little early. Your treatment will have to end at the appointed hour; otherwise, you would be intruding into someone else's time. Spas usually have some type of information form required, so you can spend your short wait-time filling out the form and getting into a relaxed mood. If you need to cancel your appointment, be sure to call the spa. You might be depriving one of your fellow passengers of a wonderful experience.
Next time you plan a cruise, reserve some time and some of your cruise budget for a trip to the spa. It will be like a dessert on top of your cruise vacation.
