When the Banyan Tree Spa says it has launched a brand new series of complete top-to-toe Body Rejuvenation Experiences, in line with the award-winning spa brand's mission to set industry benchmarks, they really need say no more.

Or do they? Here's what else they say, you decide:

Specially formulated products with active ingredients pamper the body for visibly smoother and firmer skin and complexion without the use of any intrusive equipment . Signature Banyan Tree Spa massages complement each experience to rejuvenate the body, mind and soul. A healthy, glowing look is achieved as the body is rejuvenated naturally both inside and outside. [italics ours].

Well, we were sold from the words Banyan Tree.

If you're a trickier customer than us, consider what we experienced.

Lomi Lomi Massage

The charming, professional masseuse took charge of us instantly. In her flawless English, she explained to us what we were in for, and told us we could expect some tingling or itchiness during the facial treatment thanks to the AHA products in the ingredients.

"Don't worry. It means it's working," she smiled.

"We believe you," we chirped, happy to surrender.

She led us to these utterly beautiful pavilions, one for each, along pathways adorned with pretty white flowers.

They are opulent and spacious, too much for just the one person, but hey, who's complaining?
As in-charge as your masseuse is, from the word GO, this is your experience, and she will let you create it. We were given a choice of aromatic sticks, to create just the right ambiance.

Sandal it was, for me. A quick footbath and she let me sniff the oil she was going to lather me with. I'm sure she said"Love oil", but I was too busy enjoying my beautiful pavilion.

The massage is simply blissful. Experienced hands find every knot, every crick.

Even before she began, I was asked if I wanted her to concentrate on any part or avoid any other. "Shoulders," I yelped.

It is to be experienced, not described, but I will say this: most massages I have had, cheap or expensive, have been pleasantly punishing. My body worked as hard as the masseuse did.

Here, I barely felt anything beyond bliss, and yet, I could feel the massage working on the inside, rather than the outside.

I don't know how she did it, but all my aches and pains disappeared. Just like that.

Rice and Milk Body Conditioner.

Body brushing, moisturising body conditioner, smooth and radiant skin surface. Need we say more? What we do need to describe here is the complete feeling of helplessness, as you lay there wrapped like a happy mummy. Then your face begins to tingle because of the AHA products. A tad vulnerable, but all going to make you super-beautiful. What's a little sacrifice?

Rejuvenation Facial Treatment

A pre-treatment face wash, an application of pineapple- and papaya-based exfoliant and a protein enriched hydrating mask washes those dead skin cells and impurities away, while new skin cells are cultivated. Fine lines are smoothed, and skin elasticity is improved.

"Face the world with beautiful, renewed complexion," says the Banyan Tree. I glowed and glowed for days after. Believe us, it takes nothing short of ambrosia to make a journalist's skin look good.

The Banyan Tree also offers Clarity and Soothe treatments, in addition to Radiance, which has been featured here. These treatments are available at Banyan Tree Spa Phuket from March 2008 onwards. Price: 7,650 baht/nett

For more information and reservations, call Banyan Tree Spa Phuket at +66 76 324 374 or email at spa-phuket@banyantree.com