By Kee Foong

Aug 27, 2021

WHEN THE LANDMARK MANDARIN ORIENTAL became Hong Kong’s first luxury hotel to launch cannabidiols (CBD)-based spa treatments, I wondered: Is it really legal? Will I get the munchies and the urge to order pizza, or have an uncontrollable case of the giggles? Maybe I’ll just quietly drift into dreamland.

I had to find out for myself, and so made sure I was first in line to experience the new CBD Sleep Therapy at the hotel’s fabulous (it’s also star podiatrist Bastien Gonzalez’s exclusive outpost in the city) spa – all in the name of research, of course.

The therapy is a 90-minute holistic massage that includes ingesting and applying certified CBD potions, lotions and oils by Swiss company Kiara, using plants plucked from the alps, all the better – supposedly – to help me relax and sleep better.

On arrival at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental Spa, I’m presented with a mysterious herbal brew that contains a sleep-enhancing tincture made with CBD oil and plant extracts, then taken to the lovely Sanctuary Suite, complete with its own bubbling vitality pool and amethyst crystal steam shower.

My therapist, Shanti, hands me a thimble-sized cup of water mixed with drops of pure CBD oil. Curious, I bring it to my nose and inhale deeply before drinking, and discover that, rather than reeking of a reefer, the oil is completely flavorless, odorless and easy to consume.

We follow with breathing exercises, and I then select one of the spa’s signature scented oils. Asked if I would like extra CBD oil and salve slathered on my forehead and joints, I reply: “Bring it on.”

Tough decisions made, I surrender to 90 minutes of blissful, head-to-toe massage using CBD and essential oils. I float off on a cloud of calm, with no drama, and no trippy episodes, just a strong sense of wellbeing. For the next two nights, I have the best sleep in weeks. Maybe it’s all in the mind, but count me as a convert to the joys of cannabis-based spa treatments.

CBD Sleep Therapy at The Oriental Spa HK$1,800 weekdays, HK$2,000 weekends.

All photos courtesy of The Landmark Oriental Hong Kong