These days, wellness is a holistic effort that encompasses more than just physical fitness—luxuriant body pampering, a healthy diet and a calm, open mind count too. In a city that’s simply brimming with options, here are some one-stop spa destinations that ensure you don’t put a foot wrong.The Green Room Café The spa: Aramsa The Garden Spa is, is as its name suggests, nestled amid lush foliage and pretty blooms, perfect for easing you into the ultimate R&R mode. Complimenting their botanical theme, the spa uses only natural, herb-based products in their treatments, which include the oxygenating Swedish Recharge ($98-138), the stimulating Thermal Earth hot stones massage ($158) and specialized massages concentrating on tension-relieving, acupressure methods as well as quick and focused anti-stress rubs. Start the year afresh with their detox therapy package ($98), which includes exfoliation with ginger cream, a therapeutic ginger rub and a firming and contouring abdomen massage. There’s even a detox ear candling option ($58), accompanied by manual lymphatic drainage on the face and neck. If fitness is more your thing, check into their Power Moves Pilates studio, also located on the grounds.The food: In keeping with Aramsa’s green surrounds, their in-house Green Room Café serves an exclusively vegetarian menu. There are even gluten-free versions of signature dishes such as their gado gado and baked mushroom brown rice, while other dietary requirements can be arranged personally with the service staff. Seasonal menus are also available. Check out their Afternoon Tea in the Park ($15++) set, oddly indulgent for such a health-oriented place.Where: Aramsa The Garden Spa, Bishan Park II, 1382 Ang Mo Kio Ave. 1, 6456-6556, www.aramsaspas.com.Barracks Café The spa: HOUSE at Dempsey is one of the most endearing one-stop lifestyle destinations in Singapore, occupied by spa and retail space Beauty Emporium, as well as the in-house Barracks Café and cozy Camp Bar. Helmed by the Spa Esprit Group which also owns Strip and Browhaus, the Beauty Emporium hosts an elaborate array of beauty-related services such as waxing, eyebrow reconstruction, facials and massages. If you’re a fan of traditional Chinese methods, try their House Proud massage ($120-180), which incorporates the age-old Tui Na technique. Or go with the Slow Flow massage ($170), which relaxes and polishes your body using wax derived from soy candles.The food: Comfort is the main draw of HOUSE—everything you need is a mere reservation away. Barracks Café’s resident head chef Ho and consultant chef Ryan Clift of the Tippling Club have concocted an uncomplicated and health-conscious menu that includes the likes of baked brie with bread and macadamia crusted pumpkin salad. Naturally, gluten-free soups such as red pepper and tomato soup are also available.Where: 8D Dempsey Rd., 6475-7787, www.dempseyhouse.com.More cafés in unexpected placesAlligator Pear The spa: The 50,000 square feet of space spanning a level of the opulent Fairmont Singapore makes Willow Stream Spa one of the most luxurious wellness sanctuaries in Singapore. Falling short of nothing when it comes to pampering its clients, the spa contains exquisite relaxation lounges and treatment rooms, as well as whirlpools and steam and sauna facilities. Release fatigue and toxic particles with the Singapore Perfection treatment, which includes a stimulating dry brush massage and deep cleansing mask with neem, carrot root and sesame seed oil.The food: Alligator Pear is known for its spa cuisine, and the customized menu caters to a variety of diets such as vegan, macrobiotic, raw and gluten-free. You can even talk to the chef about a nutrition plan for you.Where: 80 Bras Basah Rd., 6431-6156, www.fairmont.com/singapore.The Garden The spa: When one talks about spa getaways, the name “Spa Botanica” naturally comes to mind. This 6,000 square meter facility tucked in the Sentosa Resort & Spa is truly a dream retreat, with its labyrinth of pools, extravagant treatment rooms, a novel mud pool and even a bronze bath fit for a king. While you’re here, don’t miss out on their signature treatments, which include a healthy meal designed for you by their in-house restaurant The Garden. Want to flush out toxins? Try the Spa Botanica rooibos face and body anti-aging delight ($350), a toning and hydrating treatment that uses the South African rooibos herb. The package comes with a two-course meal and fresh juice.The food: With such pleasant tropical settings, it’s hard not to loosen up as you settle into The Garden. Its alfresco area sits by a tranquil pool and garden, and the staff are on hand to make helpful recommendations. If you don’t have any meals planned for you as part of their wellness packages, pick up the ala carte menu and try their mango smoothie with organic honey and soy milk or their sandwich options, such as the potato and paneer burger.Where: The Garden, The Sentosa Resort & Spa, 2 Bukit Manis Rd, 6371-1130, www.spabotanica.com. Discover more cafés in unexpected placesA Curious TeepeeSectioned out of this cool concept store is a mini café-bar serving gourmet coffee, juices, cocktails and salads.#02-25, 2 Orchard Link, 6820-1680.K.ki Sample Japanese teas and cakes as you browse the quirky knick-knacks.7 Ann Siang Hill, 6225-5541, www.thelittledromstore.com.National Geographic Café Enjoy a sandwich away from VivoCity’s frenzied crowds and brush up on your cartography while you’re at it.#01-19 VivoCity, 1 HarbourFront Walk, 6376-9557, www.ngsingaporestore.com/cafe.html.PluckThis charming store stocks vintage furniture and locally designed jewelry alongside offerings of great ice cream.31/33 Haji Lane, 6396-4046, www.pluck.com.sg. [TOP]
