Bliss
We like it because it is the newest, shiniest thing to happen in our spa world in a long time. Bliss steps away from the marble, frosted glass, blonde-wood copy-cats of other spas to do it their way. That is to say they serve brownies instead of fruit smoothies and they play Aretha Franklin instead of moody whale music. They do keep some traditional graces such as gorgeous city and harbour views in every room, a bubbling bath with embedded loungers and a generously sized rain shower. And how many nail bars do you know located on the 72nd floor displaying postcard views? 72 & 73/F, 1 Austin Rd West, Kowloon Station, West Kowloon, 3717 2222.

Runner-up: Landmark Mandarin Oriental’s Oriental Spa
Oh how we love this place. The soft lighting against the alternating rough and smooth marble, the memorable oriental soundtrack, and the affable service puts the mind at ease as soon as you step in. We strangely enjoy the daily newspapers, magazines, and free computer terminals here too. It’s a soothing environment to compose an email or even just a thought. The his-and-hers holistic spas are part of the 25,000 sq ft dedicated to fitness and well-being. As well as vitality pools, crystal heat saunas, and minimalist relaxation facilities, they also give fine aromatherapy massages and body-scrub treatments. They also specialise in waxing and nail care. The couple’s suite is larger than most apartments in Central and has a tub that can fit eight people comfortably. The best part: they are open late (last appointment is at 10pm). So suitable for workaholics. 15 Queen's Rd Central, The Landmark, Central, 2132 0188.

Second runner-up: Let’spa
They take all the great elements from the best hotel spa treatments and scale it down to a glossy basement space. Their services include foot and full body massages, and facial treatments from an affordable $220 to $1,500. Give the ‘Smelling me softly’ aromatherapy massage a go at $480 for one hour. Each treatment room comes equipped with individual showers and a rock formation lighting theme. A bit basic if you are comparing it to The Plateau spa suite at the Grand Hyatt, but the service is just as good and at this price we’ll take a double session. B/F, The Broadway, 54-62 Lockhart Rd, Wan Chai, 2866 9221.

Honorable mention: Peninsula Spa by Espa
The Peninsula enjoys spoiling its clientele – who are very used to being spoilt. The sauna/steam/rain mist area is small enough to be intimate and to feel like your own private sanctuary. Their relaxation room hosts unlimited views of the harbour below, all in a comfortable day bed made for one. Treatments start with a lux footbath and are carried out by trained therapists who are requested by name time and time again by repeat clientele. The Peninsula Hong Kong, Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, 2315 3322.

Reader’s Choice: Mandarin Spa
The vote is in, and readers say they like the Mandarin Spa best. They do have an impressive hydrotherapy room and Ayurvedic sanctuary. But what readers enjoyed the most is MO’s warm and cosy Chinese interiors with enviable Chinese antiques, and its attention to detail in the décor and service. The Aromatherapy Associates products used here is reason enough to take a massage. 5 Connaught Rd, Central, 2825 4888.