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 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. The company, in fact, grows and harvests its own lavender in Switzerland, assuring 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.

The combination of professional touch, cool face creams, delicate scent and tranquil music was enough to put me completely at ease. I felt as if I had been whisked away to a desert paradise.

My friend corroborated my sentiments as she emerged from her treatment room, smiling and sleepy-eyed. Her back, cramped and knotted hours before, was lithe and smooth.

After showering, we enlisted the help of the Elemis Salon for our night out. The hair stylists made us feel glamorous and helped continue the pampering vibe of the spa.

Little did I know that when I checked my stress at the door, I'd also be exchanging the title of 'writer' with that of 'princess'. But something tells me it's a trade-off I'd be willing to make...time and time again.

MORE INFORMATION

Elemis Spa at the Aladdin, with its six suites, 29 individual treatment rooms, and the only sensory float bed in Las Vegas, is the first US-based Elemis Spa. True to the original Elemis Day-Spa philosophy, each treatment is presented in ritual form, capturing the essence of the Elemis touch – sensuality, simplicity and vibrancy. All treatments experienced in the Elemis Spa at the Aladdin involve caressing touch, exquisite aroma and a sense of ceremony. Completing the service offerings, the Elemis Spa at the Aladdin includes separate men and women’s sauna and steam, a large gymnasium with both cardio-vascular and muscle-strengthening equipment, and a fully facilitated hair and nail salon. There is also a grooming center, fully equipped with a wide array of amenities. For more information: http://www.elemis.com/spaaladdin.htm http://www.aladdincasino.com