July/August 2017 AsiaSpa 107curious to see if the experience lives up to the enthused review. I’m
won over. My therapist’s hands are magic. After a foot wash, and with
a hot cushion softening tired shoulder muscles, the massage on my
feet and lower legs is part pleasure, part poetry, all therapy. I dip into
the evening market on floating feet afterwards, before returning to
share a delicious dinner of local fish and veggies, and sleep like a log.
http://www.azerai.comBURASARI HERITAGE HOTEL LUANG PRABANG
My final stay was at classic boutique Burasari, where the staff
became my adopted family. First they ushered me into their ancient
black Mercedes complete with time-cracked red interiors and walnut
dashboard, for the trip to the hotel. Then they offered the welcome
drink of subtly sweetened and carbonated butterfly pea tea – add
local vodka to this in the evening, offered free, and you’ve found a
worthy equal to the gin and tonic. Then I explored the interiors of
my retro room, the restaurant and spa, which epitomise colonial
travels, and are fitting for Luang Prabang.
Days start with the buffet breakfast, choosing local specialities
and croissants brought in from nearby Luang Prabang institution Le
Banneton Café. One morning we were guided to the food market
and brought back unknown veggies that the chef turned into steamed
dishes and a salad for lunch.
The Burasari Spa is consistently top of TripAdvisor’s best spas in
Luang Prabang, and one afternoon I ducked out of the heat and into
one of their beautiful spa rooms. I got more than I bargained for with
the 90-minute Burasari Signature Massage. After the refreshing foot
scrub and cleanse, I settled on the bed and singing bowls erased any
lingering worries. The massage that followed not only mixed Swedish,
Thai and Lomi Lomi techniques, it also included hot poultices for
tired, knotted muscles. I emerged wondering just how much more
relaxed it was possible to feel.
http://www.burasariheritage.comCLOCKWISE FROM LEFT:
Created by Aman’s ex-
founder, Azerai features
clean lines, symmetry
and space with a casual
atmosphere; explore the
neighbourhood by bike
when you stay at Burasari
Heritage Hotel Luang
Prabang; Azerai offers
a range of acitivies for
guests to discover the
local culture