One&Only Desaru Coast
You could hear a pin drop in the treatment rooms of the One&Only Spa in Desaru Coast. The hallway leading to the rooms encircle a lotus pond where in the centre of it all, an ancient Banyan tree stands majestically within the structure. This tranquil atmosphere perfectly sets the tone for the treatment I’ve just signed up for starring one of the biggest names in skincare at the moment – Augustinus Bader.
The resort’s spa recently underwent a revamp and is now known as the first One&Only Spa in Asia. It’s also the first spa in Southeast Asia to feature Augustinus Bader treatments. The skincare brand’s star product – The Rich Cream – is a product that Hollywood A-listers and industry experts swear by, which is no surprise as this clever moisturiser comes with regenerative anti-ageing capabilities bringing instant suppleness to the skin.
The Augustinus Bader The Body Cleanser
Guests at the spa can opt for a selection of the Augustinus Bader treatments: the Superior Deluxe Facial, which targets the face, neck and decolletage area or the Body Ritual for an all-over massage using the full range of the brand’s body care collection. I opted for the former, as having been familiar with the brand’s moisturiser, I was curious to discover the full facial skincare range.
The treatment began with an invigorating scrub and soaking of the feet in an infusion of flower buds and citrus. Once on the massage bed, the facial began with a gentle cleanse using The Cleansing Gel. Using gentle strokes and massages at targeted areas, the therapist expertly applies every layer of the treatment in a precise and unhurried pace beginning with The Essence, The Retinol Serum and The Face Cream Mask before massaging the residue into my skin, allowing everything to sink in. It’s also worth noting how the products have almost zero fragrance, something I enjoy in skincare.
My therapist was very attentive to the skin concerns I had, having been slightly burnt in the sun from swimming all morning (as you do). But the most enjoyable part for me was the eye treatment using the brand’s The Eye Cream, where the cool facial tools felt magical for these tired eyes that spend most of their time glued to a screen.
After an hour of complete bliss, you can retreat to the veranda where they’ll serve you ginger tea, inviting you to enjoy the unobstructed view of the South China Sea. I leave feeling calmer and my mind clearer, plus my skin feels rather fabulous too.
The spa is not the only place in the resort where you can find state-of-the-art health and wellness facilities. The gym’s locker rooms also come with a cold plunge pool with all the gym equipment you need to continue your exercise regime back home. Although, when you’re in a place as beautiful as this, I’d prefer to spend as much time outside in nature.
Earlier in the day, I got my daily steps in with a nature walk with the resort’s naturalist. The walk lets you delve deep into the flora and fauna that surrounds the resort and if you’re lucky, you might spot a dusky monkey or two. “Just make sure you don’t make any eye contact,” the naturalist tells me. “And don’t run, they’ll take it as a sign of weakness.”
Dusky Monkey Bar in One&Only Desaru Coast
Although we didn’t spot any of them during our walk, we did however end up making a detour to the resort’s Dusky Monkey Bar, named after a resident dusky primate that would visit the architecture team while the resort was under construction. The afternoon tea here is delightful and served in a peaceful setting surrounded by greenery.
The architecture of the resort has taken into consideration the wildlife surrounding the area. The architect behind it was the late Kerry Hill, and you’ll spot some of his signature design influences here, with the large white walls that are built around some of the large ancient trees on the property, as a respect for the natural environment.
Back in the Villa, traditional Malay design influences can be observed throughout, from the woven mats, to the furniture to the little details in the furnishings. Everything is sophisticated, chic with a soothing neutral colour palette and an overall unfussy design.
But what I also love about this place are the restaurants. From light bites and sharing plates at Ember (the chilli crab with mantou is a must- try) to the indulgent classics and local gems at Ambara to the unique Japanese omakase menu at Hoshi, the resort offers a thoroughly modern yet true to local flavours offering.
In the end, the best bit here is that when you come for a holiday, you end up leaving a place that feels like home.
