A project manager with long commute hours and dreaded deadlines, need I say anything more about a hectic and stressful lifestyle? With my recent work schedule taking its toll on me, I desperately needed to unwind. So when Sofitel Mumbai BKC invited me to try their indulgent package, the timing could not have been better. “A refreshing dip in the azure waters of L’OH pool, an hour long revitalizing treatment at the 24-hour So SPA, hair wash and blow dry along with a manicure and pedicure session at the Savio John Pereira Salon, and house-curated nutritious salads and detox juices from Artisan’s French Bistro menu” is what they had on offer. Sounds like the perfect girly day, doesn’t it? I needed no convincing to say yes to this indulgence overload.
After an hour’s drive, I finally get to Sofitel which is in the center of the city in Bandra Kurla Complex. I reach at my appointed time of 2 PM and am warmly ushered to the pool area to unwind. It’s a hot sunny day in November and one look at the calm waters of the L’OH open air pool and I instantly feel relaxed. The deep aqua blue waters look so inviting and I soon find myself swimming my blues away.
I take a break and find myself ordering a fresh fruit juice. Nothing like a refreshing watermelon drink for a quick energy boost.
After that much needed swim, I am now ready for my spa. The spa and salon are on the same floor. A gargantuan chandelier greets you as soon as you enter and lets you know you’ve entered an elegant space. Spa Manager Manoj Chauhan tells me that the glass globes are called ‘Golden Drops of Luxury.’ It rains luxury at the So Spa,” he proudly says.
I can’t help but be amazed at the interiors of the So SPA. The use of cut-glass and gleaming gold epitomizes luxury and elegance. Controlled lighting gives it a cozy yet elegant feel.
After having filled out my consultation form and checking off the usual health questions, I am offered the spa menu and advised on the different massage techniques and what’s best for my weary body. I settle down for the Revitalizing Aromachologie Massage which is a deep pressure Lomi Lomi and Balinese massage with a blend of mint, pine and rosemary essential oils (Sofitel uses signature treatments and products from L’Occitane.) I am told the massage will help release blocked up energy from my body, something that I desperately need to get my creative juices flowing again. I lay down and let Shayesta, my therapist work her magic. Her professional hands work away all the knots of stress and leaves me feeling revitalized.
I felt like a butterfly emerging from her cocoon – new, energized and refreshed. Further de-stressing wasn’t necessary but I was looking forward to my next pampering session – a hair wash, blow dry & mani-pedi at the Savio John Pereira Salon. This butterfly was all ready to get dolled up. The first thing that impressed me right away was the waiting area with beautiful ornate chairs and comfy cushions. The salon is open all days from 10 AM to 9 PM making it easy to go down after office hours.
There’s nothing much you can say about a hair wash and blow dry but I liked the extra step they took to iron my hair because let’s face it I have naturally unruly curls. I am at the stage where my hair is curly at the roots and straight at the ends thanks to the many many hair smoothening sessions I’ve been through. So wash plus blow dry plus ironing = bonus check!
Next up was my mani-pedi session. Oh boy! I have got to go on record and say this was one of the best mani-pedi’s I’ve ever received till date. The technician (Thank You, Anil) was an expert and at the end of my pedicure my feet felt so soft and smooth that I could put a baby’s feet to shame. Well, not really but almost!
With my outer self satiated and relaxed it was now time for some much needed nourishment for my inner self. A healthy green salad made of grilled feta cheese, asparagus, olives and baby tomatoes to complete my state of well being. As I bite into my salad I realize how ideal this experience was for a much needed discovery of serenity, style and health.
Go for it if you are looking for a relaxing yet luxurious wholesome experience of well being. I enjoyed my time at Sofitel Mumbai BKC and availing this indulgence package made for the perfect relaxing day. You need to make a prior appointment and you can choose to spend the day at your will. As for me? I spent around five hours for my perfect girly day.
The Sofitel Indulgence Offer is available at an exclusive day rate of INR 6,000 plus taxes.
Where : Sofitel Mumbai BKC
SC-57, Bandra Kurla Complex
Bandra East, Mumbai – 400 051.
Phone: +91 (22) 6117 5045