From journal
10 Days in China
After experiencing the Chinese side of China, kick back and enjoy an experience unaffordable for most Chinese. The treatment that you will receive in this spa is affordable for the American college student, while offering the luxury that one can only dream about. A visit to the Oriental Taipan Massage and Spa was an unforgettable and unusual Chinese experience. This spa is known across China as a reputable, affordable, and possibly 'the best' in the country.
All staff members at the Taipan spas go through extensive and continuous training to make them the best. The spa is decorated in traditional Asian decor, and offers complimentary drinks and snacks. I would suggest either the watermelon or the kiwi juice, since these are beverages not considered normal by many.
When you enter the front door of the spa you step off the busy streets of Beijing into an inviting oasis of peace. A wide staircase leads you up to where you massage specialist awaits. You are led down a short hallway filled with a calming ambience. When you go in large groups you can choose an intimate setting or a group setting. My mother and I chose to be together while the other four travelling with us opted for one group room. My mom and I were first given spa shoes to wear while in the spa and then led to our room. Our young specialist sat us down, placed our feet in a warm herbal bath, laid a warm towel across our legs and a placed a warm beaded sack on our shoulders. We had opted for the Foot Reflexology treatment which includes the hot herbal bath, a neck and shoulder massage to relieve tension and the use of an ancient technique which focuses on pressure points of the feet. This therapy lasted 90 minutes and was only RMB138. Our specialists were very friendly and great at their job. Not only did they make us feel welcome with conversation but created a relaxing environment. Sharing the private room with my mom was definitely the way to go. This allowed for mother and daughter bonding in a peaceful environment, while we could still giggle at our family next door making noises that should have been X-rated.
The Taipan Spa and Massage offers services ranging from RMB48 to RMB268. These include things such as ear candling, Chinese style pedicure, manicure, hot stone aromatherapy, full body massage, and Thai aromatic oil massage. Even if you only have half an hour, drop in the spa for a 20 minute head or hand massage, and if you have the luxury of a full day go for the two hour hot stone aromatherapy.
There are four shops in Beijing: The Winterless, Lido, International Club, and Chaoyang. We visited the Lido shop. The Lido shop is known for its simplicity and luxury. While visiting any of these locations strike up conversations with government officials, local business owners, and movie stars.
For more information on this spa visit www.taipan.com.cn or call 64376299. |
