Flying High

Located next to Liangmaqiao Diplomatic Compound across from the Kempinski Hotel, Dragonfly Retreat’s newest Beijing branch is an easy getaway for the city’s top expats and is, without a doubt, one of the most welcome newcomers to the Yan Sha area. Featuring the same cozy ambience and affordable packages as Dragonfly’s other locations, this spa’s close proximity to Liangmaqiao station on subway line 10 makes it an especially easy retreat for all of Beijing’s city slickers.

Known for its head and foot massages, we decided to try Dragonfly’s Top-to-Toe package which, for ￥270 per hour, features two masseuses working on your head and feet simultaneously. Available in one- to two-hour sessions, the package caters to those in a rush and those in need of extra pampering. Our massage, would last for an hour and a half—just enough time for us to relax and still make it to our dinner rendezvous.

Passing by rows of stepping stones, we ventured deeper into the spa before coming to a stop in front of a room full of cushy recliners. Sinking deep into our chairs, we closed our eyes and were immediately soothed by the sound of water trickling behind us. Meanwhile, a heated aromatherapy pack was placed on our stomachs to keep us warm. Next, as one therapist gently massaged our head and shoulders, a second rinsed our feet in a steaming basin of sweet-smelling water before massaging our tired calves and aching feet.

The next 90 minutes of bliss left us feeling wobbly all over but blissfully energized. Suffice to say, a second date is already in the works.

Erica Chen