Touch of the Dragonfly

Suzhou, China

The room is dimly lit. My eyes make out vague shapes moving before me. The scent of lavendar swirl around. My brain is fuzzy and my body, completely relaxed. Somewhere in the deep recesses of my mind, I hear soothing music. I drift again as gentle hands press down on my body. I can't do a thing about it, nor do I want to.

This is the healing process called a Dragonfly massage. Hours later, I was still floating, totally rejuvenated. Every knot in my muscle was relaxed. Every bit of stress chased away. I had just gone through something called "Ultimate Indulgence", an incredible therapeutic spa treatment that started with an hour of Oriental Foot Massage and ended with an hour of Aroma oils massage.

I have been going to the Dragonfly Therapeutic Retreat for 2 years and I still can't get enough. John is just as hooked on it as I am. Each time we get into Shanghai or Suzhou, which is several times a year (we are thankful to have business dealings there), we hit Dragonfly upon landing. They actually have a massage called "Happy Landing" which is their in-house remedy for jet lag and travel discomfort. Two hours later, we flit out like dragonflies.

Although the reception area presents a tasteful, authentic Chinese decor, once you pass through the teak doors into the inner sanctum, you know you're on a journey into tranquility. The floor is made of stone slabs over running water. Lanterns and candles light the way down long corridors. Rice paper sliding doors open into cozy rooms created for our pampering. And best of all, everyone speaks in whispers.

For VIPs, there is the Love Nest and Crystal House. It is a larger room that accommodates 2 beds and is usually reserved by couples. Sparkly glass dangle from the ceilings and you feel like you are lying in an enchanted chamber. Although the massages are the same, you have your own bathroom when you can take a slow, steamy shower to wash off the oils. The privilege of using this room comes at a price - about $45/- more than the norm but then you get an extra hour of enjoyment.

The list of massages and beauty treatments is long and there is something for everyone. One massage that piques John's interest is something called Double Trouble. It is described as "the hedonistic pleasure of a relaxing Aroma oil massage delivered simultaneously by two pairs of gentle hands". He imagines it would be heavenly to be massaged by two petite Chinese maidens at the same time. Hmm....I think he is going to get a rude shock when the 200-pound gorilla shows up.

For those who have no plans to be Shanghai, here is the good news. Dragonfly now has 17 locations including Beijing, Hangzhou, Qingdao, Oslo (Norway) and Dubai (United Arab Emirates). Prices are incredibly affordable, ranging from $20 (one hour) to $120 (3 hours in the Crystal House). www.dragonfly.com.