FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Dubai, Hotel Level Terminal 3, Emirates Timeless Spa

Aug 1, 2009
2009 / August 2009

My alarm clock rang far too early in the morning. I couldn’t believe it was already time to leave Dubai. I was traveling through the United Arab Emirates on business and loving every experience. However, my body was fighting a fever and I was experiencing allaround soreness, the result of long meetings, late evenings and too much time spent on my feet — in fashionable but painful high heels.

On the way to Dubai International Airport (DXB) to catch my Emirates flight home, I ran through my travel schedule in my head. Like most business travelers, I follow a steady routine once I get to the airport for a long-haul flight. But today was going to be different. I was changing my routine.

I arrived at the airport an hour earlier than necessary — but I was still running late. I had planned the extra hour not as a time cushion to get through security. Instead, I was going to enjoy my first pre-flight spa treatment at the Emirates Timeless Spa located in Terminal 3. After I checked my luggage and received my boarding pass, I went straight to the hotel inside the terminal. I followed signs to the spa, where a smiling staff member greeted me and asked me to have a seat as my therapist prepared the treatment room.

The waiting room seemed a bit small considering it had to accommodate not only the spa guests but also all their luggage. The spa is popular and busy, and the added luggage is quite cumbersome.

As I perused the extensive treatment menu, I discovered the concept behind the Timeless Spa was developed at the Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, a 5-star oasis in the middle of the desert outside Dubai. The spa uses Babor and Sodashi products. The therapists are trained in healing practices inspired by global cultures, modern rejuvenation and wellbeing and beauty techniques — all qualities that are ideal for harried travelers squeezing in a visit to an airport spa.

I decided on the hot stone treatment. This is usually scheduled for 90 minutes, but since I didn’t have that much time, the therapist adjusted the treatment to an hour.

I took my hand luggage with me into the treatment room, which was compact but had all the amenities of a luxury spa. The therapist stepped outside the room while I undressed, so happy to finally be off my feet.

It was my first hot stone treatment, so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I found it relaxing, though not entirely to my liking. While my therapist skillfully utilized the stones during a foot massage, I realized that — after being on my feet in uncomfortable shoes — reflexology may have been the better choice. On the upside, the heat was good for my cold and fever, and the hour flew by.

Following the treatment I went to a neighboring room, equipped with shower and vanity, to get ready for my flight. I was provided a bathrobe, but was not completely comfortable having to go back and forth while my luggage remained in the treatment room.

The hot stone treatment left me feeling more awake and much less achy. My fever seemed to be gone. And I had that after-spa glow — I seemed to glide across the terminal rather than dragging myself and my luggage to the business-class lounge.

The lounge was so busy I forgot it was 7 a.m. The space can accommodate more than 1,000 people, and I had a hard time finding a seat. I took a look around and noticed that the Emirates Timeless Spa also has facilities in the lounge and throughout the terminal for smaller treatments, ranging from 15 to 25 minutes.

Business- and first-class passengers can access the satellite Timeless Spa outlets at 10 stations around Terminal 3; the full-service spa where I had my treatment is open to all passengers. Emirates’ first-class passengers receive complimentary 15-minute treatments, including half-back massage, a mini-manicure, express reflexology and basic hairstyling (blow-dry, trimming, beard-shaving), while the carrier’s business-class passengers can enjoy 25-minute treatments for a small charge.

If I hadn’t taken advantage of the full-service spa, I certainly would have indulged in the therapeutic head and shoulders treatment and the stimulating leg and foot massages that increase blood circulation and reduce stiffness and aches.

The spa also offers a de-stress back massage, full back and body massages and deep-cleansing facials. The Timeless Traditions Signature Body Treatment looked enticing on the menu, and the hair salon featured Schwarzkoph SEAH Hair Spa products and Blossom Bath Shampoo and Cashmere Wrap Lotion Conditioner. Next time I travel through DBX, I’ll make time for one of the regenerative hand therapies and maybe a manicure or pedicure.

After walking around the terminal and checking my email one last time before boarding, I started to feel like I was coming back down to earth. However, as I boarded, I noticed I was much more relaxed. Normally on a long-haul flight I take the first hour or two to decompress before focusing on what the next few days have in store. Thanks to the massage I was already feeling relaxed, and I was able to focus from the moment I sat in my seat. Upon landing in New York, my body — and mind — felt fresh and ready to take on a brand-new day.

Emirates Timeless Spa
Hotel Level Terminal 3
Dubai International Airport
tel 971 4 505 9555

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
Nov 29, 2024

Dusit’s Reimagined Flagship Hotel Reopens in Bangkok

Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, reopened its flagship property, Dusit Thani Bangkok, in late September 2024. The hotel was completely rebuilt from the ground up as part of the $1.4 billion Dusit Central Park mixed-use development project.

Sailing the Ionian Sea: Explore Greece’s Nautical Gems

Sailing the Ionian Sea is an enchanting way to experience Greece's breathtaking islands and pristine waters. Known for its favorable winds, calm seas and stunning landscapes, the Ionian Sea offers a paradise for both experienced sailors and those looking to explore for the first time. From lively beaches to secluded bays, these waters have something for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.

November 2024
Nov 29, 2024

Take Along High-Performance Tools for Business and Leisure

Microsoft Surface Laptop 7  The latest iteration of Microsoft’s touchscreen laptop comes with integrated Copilot+ AI technology to help with productivity, an HDR display with adaptive contrast, and a Qualcomm Snapdragon chip for high performance. The 13.8-inch-screen model weighs just 2.96 pounds, with an ultra-thin design that makes it great for travel. It also comes with the Snapdragon X Plus processor, 16GB RAM and 256GB SSD storage. The 15-inch model gets a faster Snapdragon X Elite processor. 13.8-inch model from $999.99; 15-inch model from $1,299.99.

Daily
Nov 29, 2024

See How Wellness Becomes Way of Life at Newly Renovated Six Senses Spa Con Dao

Six Senses Con Dao invites travelers to its newly transformed spa to embark on a personalized wellness journey.

Extraordinary Egypt

ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME JOURNEY INTO THE ANCIENT WORLD OF THE PHARAOHS

Daily
Nov 29, 2024

The Rittenhouse Partners with Bario Neal

Philadelphia’s The Rittenhouse hotel recently announced a partnership with Bario Neal, a Philadelphia-based and women-owned sustainable jewelry brand.

Daily
Nov 27, 2024

Sweden Becomes First Country to Seek Trademark of Name

Did you know there’s seven other places in the world named Sweden? You’ll find a Sweden in Indonesia and six across the United States, from South Carolina to Pennsylvania to Missouri. With so many places with this name, Visit Sweden (yes, the country in Europe) officially applied for the trademark “Sweden” through the European Union Intellectual Property Office.

Experience Next-Level Travel with Condor Airlines’ New A330neo Fleet

Condor Airlines completely renewed its long-haul fleet, featuring its new Airbus A330neo. Designed to elevate your travel experience, the A330neo is equipped with cutting-edge technology and offers unrivaled comfort, ensuring an exceptional journey for every passenger. With its striking signature striped livery, the A330neo not only promises a memorable flight but also enhances the start of your vacation from the moment you step aboard.

eFlyer Reviews
Nov 27, 2024

Corendon Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel Review

There are a few words that come to mind when the subject of airport hotels comes up. Usually, fun, cute and lively aren’t on that list. When general manager Evgeny Vreijling or his team members welcome guests, they insist Corendon Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is not an airport hotel but a hotel that happens to be near the airport. He also emphasizes that, while Amsterdam is regarded as the gateway to Europe, the hotel was designed to be a gateway to the rest of the Netherlands.