Parisian style
So what’s the deal?
Say the words ‘Khalidiya Centre’ to your taxi driver and they’ll most likely try and take you to Khalidiyah Mall. Say the words ‘Paris Gallery’ when you’re in the area however, and they’ll understand straight away. And with good reason. Paris Gallery dominates the Centre – spread over its trademark well-shined marble floors are over-attentive staff and counter upon counter of beauty goodies.
What’s particularly unique about the Paris Gallery at this location is that it extends its beauty offerings with Serenity Spa by Paris Gallery. The ladies only spa carries with it the unmistakable gloss of Paris Gallery; international brands, a luxurious feel throughout and impeccable service.
A Décleor Aroma Plasty facial is the reason for visiting, but a look around the Arabian styled rooms (with a hint of Grecian goddess) at the spa hints at what else is on the menu: fitness classes, hammam treatments, hair styling in the salon – the list goes on.
Feet propped on soft towels, they’re wiped with a warm, damp towel to start the treatment and then a gentle cleansing tonic (Décleor, naturally) is wiped over the face and neck to clear away any of the day’s dirt. The skin is next prepped with a light exfoliating scrub that's gentle on the skin; both products smell heavenly.
The treatment is far more than a facial; more like a therapeutic ritual. To aid with the relaxing ambience of the room (kudos to a less than irritating track list of spa music – no trickling water or bird song in earshot – just simple mellow music) shoulders, neck and scalp are gently massaged.
With a rich scent of floral aromatherapy oils, a generous layer of a creamy mask is applied over the face. Left for twenty minutes to allow the oils to penetrate deep into the skin, legs and feet are gently massaged and you’re then left to do nothing more than relax.
The mask is peeled off and then it’s on to a light cleanse, moisturiser and a few pampering prevention creams are dotted around the eyes and lips to finish. Skin is left glowing rather than red, and looking visibly plumper and refreshed.
Why go?
Serenity Spa lives up to the high gloss of the Paris Gallery brand; this is pampering and wellbeing at five-star status.
And why not?
Those who don’t like being plastered with products they can ‘conveniently’ buy in Paris Gallery downstairs may prefer a different treatment, but the products smell so lovely – and feel so good – that it’s quite possible you’ll be sold into the spa consumerism and not care anyway …
Charlie Kennedy
What? Decléor Aroma Plasty facial
Where: Serenity Spa by Paris Gallery, Khalidiya Centre
Cost: AED 500; enjoy 15 percent off all treatments from Sunday to Tuesday
We say: Shopping and a spa treatment? Bank managers be warned …
Contact: 02 667 8880
