The spa at Mandarin Oriental, Washington DC, has introduced two new treatment packages in recognition of the 2004 US presidential elections.

The Body Politic programmes offer visitors the choice between a Liberal and a Conservative experience range of therapeutic treatments.

Body Politic Liberal includes foot rituals, aromatherapy and will “change and reform the body’s constitution with a free flowing, exotic Balinese massage.”

The Body Politic Conservative experience comprises the same foot rituals and aromatherapy but differs from the liberal treatment by promoting “well-being through more traditional, deep-tissue massage techniques, stimulating muscles to achieve inner strength.”

The treatments, designed by the spa’s therapy manager, Bonnie Baker, will be available until 20 January 2005 – the inauguration day of the new president.

Facilities at the 10,400sq ft spa include eight treatment rooms, a heated indoor 50-yard lap pool and a sundeck overlooking Washington marina and the Potomac River.