It started out as a way for battle-weary Roman soldiers to cure wounds and ailments. The hot wells they found were called aquae and the treatments they underwent here were known as sanus per aquam, or spa. The famed spa town in Belgium was founded at this time. Today spas across the globe are synonymous with indulgence and relaxation. Read on to discover 10 spa surprises that offer something special.

SIN IN STYLE
You probably don't associate the original sin with tranquility. But the Adam and Eve Serenity Massage at Rajasthan's Devi Garh Fort Palace connects the two rather effectively. This deeply relaxing massage is performed in a chamber where the therapists use a special blend of oil called bliss created to enhance romance and closeness. The sensual music in the background helps transport you and your partner to a state of beatific togetherness. Devi Garh - recently showcased in Eklavya - is the perfect romantic get away for two. Nestled in the Aravalli Hills, this luxury hotel comprises 39 suites. Choose from the Devi Garh Suite Complex where the design philosophy embodies Shiv and Shakti - the male and female energies, embodied in Shiva, the Hindu God of destruction in conjunction with his consort Shakti who personifies the divine power of femininity. You can also book into the Palace Suite with its marble flooring and décor inlayed with semi-precious stone or an Aravalli Suite which lets you enjoy a spectacular view of the surrounding hills.
Devi Garh Resort, Udaipur, Delwara, Near Eklingji, NH - 8, Nathdwara, District Rajsamand, Udaipur, Rajasthan - 313202
Tel : 0091 2953 289211 Fax : 0091 2953 289357
devigarh@deviresorts.com & sales@deviresorts.com

SOAK IN PLEASURE
Walk into the Spa Reception at Quan and the first thing that you will see is a sculpture of a person immersed in water, a precursor of the ecstasy in store. Quan, Chinese for the source of pure water, blends Oriental wisdom and ancient Indian knowledge to offer rejuvenating therapies that use the healing power of water. The pristine white décor with aqua tints infuses a sense of calmness while the treatment rooms are done up in shades of lime green, sky blue or warm orange based on the seven charka system. Bamboo flooring, candles, warm natural woods and natural stone and pebbles completes the rustic interiors. Sign up for the Ocean Rainshower Body Treatment which involves a full body exfoliation and spinal massage with spirulina and pure sea salts. The soothing water jets of their Vichy rainshower completes the treatment and leaves you thoroughly revitalised. Or try the relaxing foot ritual comprising a footbath with Himalayan bath salts, tangerine and rose followed by an exfoliation with wild organic thyme and peppermint oil. A massage finishes this sublime treatment. Their tagline, 'where words end and bliss begins', rings literally true.
Quan Spa - JW Marriott, Mumbai, Juhu Tara Road,Juhu Beach, Mumbai - 4000 49 India.
Tel:022 66933610.
quanspamumbai@marriotthotels.com