Stepping through the first Moroccan-style doorway of the Elemis Spa in Las Vegas, we couldn't hide our awe. There were gasps and lopsided grins, eyebrows raised and hushed comments whispered as we moved from one richly-hued corridor to the next. Fine marble under my feet, I couldn't help but straighten my spine, a more regal posture reflecting my luxurious, exotic surroundings. And slipping into a sumptous, cushy robe never felt so good -- or deserved -- than in this 32,000-square foot spa where we roamed lazily from steam room to sauna.

Soft, entrancing music was a reminder that there was no urgent need to rush ourselves. My friend and I could feel free to indulge in the jacuzzi, a spa centerpiece which is elevated above the main floor. We just climbed a few gorgeously tiled stairs and sunk in the warm, soothing waters with closed eyes and sighs -- yes, the universal sound of departed worries.

Combining ancient touches from ten cultures, the Elemis Spa's therapy menu is a global buffet for the senses, promising rejeuvenation and relaxation, whether you have two hours or two days.

In addition, all of Elemis's essential oils and plant extracts are of premium medical grade with high therapeutic value. Elemis's sales manager told me that the company, in fact, grows and harvests its own lavender in Switzerland so it is assured of the plant quality. The company also only uses first extraction, which ensures a good, potent essential oil product.

We experienced the top-notch Elemis products during our treatments - an evaluation facial and a Swedish massage. The facial began with a number of questions from my therapist, who wanted to know how I treated my skin, its condition, and how much time I can afford in treating it on a daily basis. As an added bonus, my therapist offered a hassle-free face regimen to help keep my skin healthy and retain that glow on my cheeks. (CONTINUE...)