The SPA by Clarins is exclusive to The Residence Maldives.  It is the first and only Spa by Clarins in the Maldives and offers an array of holistic treatments, pampering massages and hair services.

The spa was a 5 minute walk from our room, located on the quiet side of the island out on its own pier. All the treatment rooms have sea-facing views. The therapists are experienced and professional, and often from Thailand or Indonesia – best countries for massages in my opinion.  It was our one hour escape from the children, and that made it feel even more like a sanctuary.

It was a soothing 50-minute massage, in a tranquil couples room with a priceless view.  My husband and I tried to stay awake during the massage to savour every moment but the soothing body rub lulled us both off at some point to sleep.  A lovely variety of oils to relax or to boost energy – we must have chosen the sleepy kind.  We woke up refreshed and ready to deal with the 4 children. The massage was so revitalising that we sneaked in on another day   when the children had an hour or so at the kids club after a 4am start for fishing.

We would love to have extended our time at the spa to 90 minutes to enjoy the views longer and try other treatments but duty called.  The Maldives isn’t a place I would normally recommend a massage.  Often, they are overpriced but The Residence Maldives charges just over USD120 for a 50-minute full body massage which makes it more reasonable than most five-star hotels in Dubai.  It is worth booking it upon landing to massage away all journey stress to start the holiday a little more relaxed.

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For more information visit www.cenizaro.com/theresidence/maldives-fm