The 25ft circular salt water outdoor hydropool is the first of its type in both the Bahamas and the United States. It has four neck jets, ten underwater body jets, the air beds accommodate eight people and there is a standing air tub for four people. The external area of this thalassotherapy hydropool is decorated with a sunrise multicoloured mosaic pattern. The surrounding area is paved in stone and covered by a tiered teak pergola to give shade. There is also a relaxation area for 20 people. The hydropool itself can be operated manually or automatically, with the outside showers thermostatically controlled.

Another feature of the spa is the Thermal Baths, consisting of a series of heated cabins around a central circular area, in the middle for relaxing is a teak bench with ebomsed ball feet. The suite consist of a Tyrolean sauna, steam bath and Aromatic Grotto. There are two snail fog showers which feel like tropical rain alongside ceramic, heated reclined seating areas. The ceilings are a profusion of fibre optic pattern, the floor intricate geometric ceramic tile patterns. There is also a central stone lion head ice fountain for drinking water. One of the specialist treatments in the spa is the mud steam treatment. This suite consists of an anti-space with shower, the mud steam cabin has three tiled niched seats and walls, and its own multi showers and kniepp hoses.

There are 14 therapy rooms of various types, decorated in cool minty greens to assimilate with the Atlantis theme. Six are fitted out for facial and body treatments, two of them can be joined together for an extra large room, or for a couple to enjoy treatments together. Another six are luxury rooms which also include showers, one of these has been adapted for the disabled. The specialist rooms include treatments such as the dry float bed, and the Cleopatra bath. This private relaxing room is tiled in rich dark purple, has a fibre optic circular ceiling and light features giving a very dramatic effect. The bath is filled with asses milk, and involves a full underwater massage, using a combination of air and water.

The gym and aerobics area cover 2500 sq. ft. One wall consists of full height mirrors, there are 13 tread mills, cardiovascular bikes, free weight racks and pigeon holes. There are three large TV monitors around the gym and the aerobics area looks out onto a terrace.

The Spa has a very different feel from the rest of Atlantis. There is plenty of space, the atmosphere is relaxed and less brutal, with gentle, subtle colours, giving a laid back more European feel. The obvious change in pace and activity combined with subtle design, make the Spa a peaceful retreat from life's everyday demands.

© SPA MANAGEMENT JOURNAL - AUGUST 2005

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