Here is the final installment from our Borneo trip series. Our last night at the resort was spent relaxing at The Spa Village, YTL’s luxurious and signature spa retreat that specializes in therapeutic and calming environments to rejuvenate the soul.
Before we headed to our romantic sunset cruise, we dropped by the village to confirm our scheduled couple’s treatment at 7PM and took some photos of the place in daylight. Usually, spa treatments offered in hotels are done by their in-house masseurs in a private room, within the hotel. The Spa Village, however, was a separate community solely dedicated to improving one’s well-being. Aside from the massage treatments, The Spa Village also offers free Yoga, Guided Meditation and Duet Stretching.
The interior of The Spa Village was a real treat. The reception lounge exhibits clean, open architecture that is emphasized with high ceiling, glass walls and wooden beams. Its contemporary design was matched with beautiful furniture and neutral colours that created a very raw feel of the surroundings.
The village was strategically situated away from the main resort area, surrounded by the elements of mountain, forest and sea so the guests can really feel the quietness of being one with nature (except for occasional song number from the birds). :)
Outside, there are small treatment rooms that blend with trees and lush mangroves.
“Set amidst lush mangroves, Spa Village Gaya Island is a tranquil hideaway surrounded by distinctive island flora and fauna. From the warm clear waters of Gaya and its rich lowland forests to the high altitude blossoms of Mount Kinabalu, our treatments utilise only the finest fresh local ingredients.
A rich tapestry of spa programmes reflects the cultural healing traditions of Sabah’s many indigenous people. From the specialised rice scrubs and masques of the Kadazandusun to the age-old practices of the Bajau sea nomads, Spa Village Gaya Island is uniquely rooted in ancient tradition while seeking to restore balance to the body and soul.” – Gaya Island Resort
They were already waiting for us when we came back from the cruise. Our therapists introduced themselves, led us to our treatment room, and gave us time to shower. Then, they started to give us a foot scrub, a short shoulder massage to lighten up our body, and a full body massage, so skilfully done; it brought me to Dreamla-lala-land.
I had an 80-minute traditional Malay massage which consists of long kneading strokes that focus on the muscles, and pressure applied to various points on the body. This treatment uses their signature Clear Waters aroma oil made with special local ingredients that invigorate circulation. It was so comfy and relaxing, I can’t remember how many times I dozed off throughout the 80-minute session. :)
How about you, when was the last time you treat yourself? Go ahead, you’ve worked hard. Treat yourself with a good massage or a box of chocolates maybe? :)
