USP Only in Japan have I seen anything like this variety of water therapies. There’s a main hot pool, with underwater loungers, massaged by jets from underneath, and a central area, called the Volcano, where the jets blast up, apparently driven by the engines of a 747.

AMBIENCE The business-like aspect of the hotel belies the generally relaxed spa, although the decor overdoses a bit on the concept of Thai-ness. The spa also has an ozone swimming pool, a sauna, steam room, relaxation rooms and a gym.

EXPERIENCE The treatments are excellent. The Thai massage involves being walked on, twisted about and, at one point, having your legs placed undecorously about your ears. Therefore, the masseur needs to know what she’s doing: which these ones do. Most entertainingly, there’s a series of showers where you can select the type of rain effect you require: the Tropical Storm comes complete with flashing lights and tinny crashes of thunder through waterproof speakers.

FOOD There is a very good spa restaurant serving Thai-fusion food, exotic herbal teas and delicious smoothies.

IN CROWD Weekenders and usual spa suspects – women who look well-off - in search of a Zen fix.

WALLET WATCH From £12.50 for a French polish to £90 for a 1½-hour body cleanse. Spa breaks start from £185 pp based on two sharing and include two massages, a facial and full board per couple.

NEED TO KNOW The SenSpa, Careys Manor Hotel, Brockenhurst, Hampshire (08707 512305; www.senspa.co.uk)

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