Floating away from life's troubles for an hour or two is what most spas figuratively promise. At the Ahasees Spa at the Grand Hyatt, they take it literally.

The new spa — which has been extensively renovated — features a floatation bed as part of many of the experiences. It looks like a bathtub, with the benefit that you don't get wet. Lying on a taut fabric top of the bath, you are lowered until only the water below is supporting you.

This was part of my body scrub-wrap-massage treatment, which was done in one of the peaceful rooms (which have their own spa showers in-room). First I had the foot-cleansing ritual in a spacious chair, the likes of which I wish I had in my own home, before being scrubbed.

Ahasees is inspired by Dubai's trade history and hence, the ingredients in many of the treatments feature pearls, frankincense, tea, cardamom and ginger. I was then laid out on the bath, wrapped in clay, and submerged.

How was it? I'm in two minds. It took me a while to understand how my body was positioned — it's slightly disorienting, but I think that's the point. You are suspended in nothingness, after all. But once your mind gets accustomed, it's relaxing and a unique way to escape.

But I did find myself getting rather chilly, despite the blankets on top, because the water underneath didn't feel heated.

Details

  • The Flourish ritual (three hours with polish, wrap, float, massage and facial) is Dh1,200.
  • Where: Ahasees Spa, Grand Hyatt, Dubai
  • Call: 04 317 1234