With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, for many people this is the one time of the year they use to reinforce their relationship or look for something exciting to do with their significant other. Couples massages have proven to be the best activity to do with your partner as it allows couples to escape from the hustle and bustle of their daily lives and just focus on relaxing with one another.

Yuvati Shah, owner of Spa Royale at the Royal Palm Hotel Umhlanga lists the benefits of couple spa treatments:

“I’ve noticed that some clients can be intimidated by a traditional, solo massage session. In a couple’s massage, clients experience a massage with someone they know, which can provide a level of comfort and security.” Says Shah. “We still give each individual a custom massage to reach their personal goals and receives unique treatments that are specific to them.” She adds.

The traditional date night can become a bit boring and repetitive and cinemas are often too busy. Rather try something different and treat yourselves to a relaxing massage you can both benefit from. Couples who share new experiences and try new things together are more prone to bond more closely. You and your partner will continue to grow and learn new things about each other each time you try something new and what better new experience is there than one that will encourage relaxation and intimacy?

The Spa Royale at Royal Palm Hotel, Umhlanga has a number of spa treatments that couples can enjoy together.

First, they offer the Couples Spa Package at just R2100 per couple. This great package includes two thirty-minute full body scrub’s, two ninety-minute full body massage’s and two twenty-minute deluxe foot massages. A complementary snack is also served to the couple.

For the couples that have travelled from afar and are in need of a little pick-me-up, the Couples de-stress package would be perfect for you. For R1700 per couple, begin this journey by unwinding with a ninety-minute aromatherapy massage to loosen and relax your muscles. Next is a twenty-minute de-stress foot massage to heal tired feet followed by a half-hour express facial that will leave both of you refreshed. Warm up with a Warm drink with muffin or cool down with a refreshing juice drink with fruit skewer at leisure.

If you’re really trying impress your lover, the two and a half hour Couples Retreat Royale is the perfect treatment for you! First Ignite your senses and inspire your heart with a sensational romantic jet bath (a deluxe milk bath jacuzzi to be specific), then a full body massage, as well as a soothing foot therapy massage. This treatment costs R1900 per couple.

For the ultimate romantic treatment that includes a cleopatra milk bath jacuzzi, couples should book the three-and-a-half-hour Champagne Kisses Package. For R2500 per couple, this sensuous spa duet includes a luxurious Aromatherapy body massage, a sumptuous facial, and magic pedicure for both lovebirds. Champagne and chocolates are also served as well as non-alcoholic beverages.

Lastly, they offer a three-hour Strawberries & Cream package. Also for R2500, couples can enjoy a sensational body scrub, a romantic jet bath, a full body massage and a soothing scalp therapy and facial. This package also includes champagne for the couple.

To avoid disappointing your better half, book now by calling 031 566 1286 or email info@sparoyale.co.za. Visit www.sparoyale.co.za for more.

James Theunissen has been appointed as the General Manager of Royal Palm effective from 1 February 2020.

Described as “dedicated and passionate” by peers and with more than two decades of seasoned experience under his belt,  Durban born Theunissen will lead the team overseeing structure, procedure and controls.

“I plan to lead our exceptional team at the Royal Palm hotel so that they can provide unforgettable experiences for our guests .My service standards align perfectly with those of Royal Palm,” he says.

After completing his schooling at Beachwood Boys High, Theunissen went on to study at UKZN. After graduating, he moved into the hospitality industry, starting out at the The Famous Fish Company and then John Dorys.  An opportunity of a life time took him to uShaka Marine World 16 years ago as part of the original food and beverage crew. “Being part of uShaka in the early days was such an accomplishment, as the team was catering to the needs of 6000 guests per day, literally pressing the restart button each and every day seven days a week,” he remembers.

James played an integral part in growing the division before moving on to Sibaya and then to Coastlands Umhlanga as General Manager.

Theunissen, doesn’t relax, and everyone who knows him says he is constantly driven by his passion to create new experiences and lasting memories for his guests.

He is also a team player. His advice to those wishing to enter into the hospitality industry is to remain dedicated and to learn and listen. Some of his greatest lessons were learnt through listening to those who were older and more experienced than he was as he believes that wisdom is created over time.

His vision for Royal Palm is to offer his guests a five star service as well develop and grow the hotel’s culinary offering through creating a bespoke dining experience.