Whenever I travel, I make it a point to include a spa visit. It helps me relax from all the walking. It also allows me to see how local wellness compares with big city or international standards. In El Nido, I discovered a true gem: Rituals Spa El Nido, tucked inside Townsquare. I tried their Yin Massage, a Swedish serenity bliss massage with relaxing oil. It turned out to be one of the best massages I have experienced, not just in Palawan but anywhere.
Personalized and Thoughtful Preparation
Before the massage started, the pre-treatment process already impressed me. They gave me a form, asking for personal details and preferences. It included focus areas, pressure level, and specific notes. I mentioned my shoulders and lower back, where I usually carry tension. This small but thoughtful step created a sense of personalized care.
Setting the Atmosphere
The session began with a foot wash. The therapist then guided me upstairs to the massage room. Once I was settled, she struck a singing bowl. The resonant sound instantly calmed the space, acting like a reset button for the mind.
The Massage Experience
She started on my back, carefully asking about the pressure, which felt just right. Her confident technique worked through the tight knots in my muscles. Some strokes hurt, but in the satisfying and relieving kind of way. She moved seamlessly from one side to the other, then shifted attention to my head and neck before moving to the legs.
When I faced up midway, she placed elongated cucumber slices over my entire face, not just the eyes. The cool sensation and fresh scent provided instant relaxation. She continued with my arms and legs, adding gentle stretches by swaying and pulling my limbs. These stretches released joint tension and made the massage more holistic.
Special Touches That Stood Out
One detail that impressed me was the towel technique. She pressed a warm towel along the sides of my forehead. The subtle pressure immediately relieved tension. Combined with the head and face massage, it became a surprisingly therapeutic highlight.
Before I realized it, the 60 minutes were done. The therapist reminded me to rest a few minutes before getting up. She then provided a hot towel for wiping off the oil. The session ended at their café, where they served ginger tea. This simple ritual was the perfect closure.
Why Rituals Spa El Nido Stands Out
At ₱1,300, the Yin Massage at Rituals Spa El Nido is a rare find. It delivers affordability yet matches the skill and finesse of massages I have experienced in five-star hotel spas in Manila, Cebu, and even Thailand. Every detail—from the form to the towel technique—shows how much care they put into the treatment.
If you plan to visit El Nido and need a break from the sun, sand, and island hopping, treat yourself here. Rituals Spa El Nido does more than relax the body. It resets the mind and spirit, making it a must-try experience on your trip.
