EASY TONING FOR VAIN MEN

Men are more vain that women.  That’s the conclusion of a survey by Slendertone, the people who make those muscle-toning electronic products – just put on the belt and lie back on the couch while it tones up your abs.

Their research shows that the British male spends an average of 3.1 hours a week grooming himself, compared with the 2.5 hours females spend.  This may take in moisturising, waxing, hair styling and fake tan products, as well as exercise and gym sessions in pursuit of the perfect shape. The old days of a shave and a stinging slap of after shave are truly long gone.

And now, Slendertone has produced a new product especially to help men achieve a Mr Universe effect, sending electro signals to key muscle groups to strengthen and tone the all important biceps and triceps. The System Male Arms is the latest in a range of toning garments for different parts of the body, said to give noticeable results in just four to eight weeks.

Worn anywhere, anytime, whilst watching TV or getting ready for a night out, daily usage of System Arms for 20 minutes, five times a week, may have you looking like the Terminator – or not, as the case may be. At £119.99 , and with the prospect of perhaps looking like the young god above, it is worth a go.www.slendertone.com

BOND GROOMING SESSIONS

As the latest Bond movie rolls out across the country, The Refinery grooming emporiums in Mayfair and Harrods are catering for fans of Connery, Brosnan and Craig by offering special treatments in the name of the stars.

The Sean Connery treatment provides a full chest and back wax, Pro-Brite teeth whitening and maintenance pedicure, while The Pierce Brosnan offers deep tissue massage, detox facial, hair cut and colour with synchronised maintenance manicure (whatever that may be), and the Daniel Craig perhaps reflects the younger model, with just a shave, back facial and hair cut. Prices start from £175 up to £395 for the high maintenance Sean Connery.

Latest James Bond, Daniel Craig, strides out with helpmate in 'Quantum of Silence', on general release.

There is no guarantee that these treatments will render recipients Bond-like but for those who wish to take the illusion a step further, The Refinery has teamed up with the Flemings Hotel in Mayfair to offer the Ultimate Bond Experience. This gives a suite at the hotel, the correct martini’s on arrival, plus James Bond dvd’s, a day’s grooming at The Refinery, and tickets for the James Bond exhibition at the Imperial War Museum.  But what about the bird?  Contact The Refinery for further details on www.the-refinery.com

PROMISE OF EASTERN PAMPERING UP THE CREEK

Would-be Bonds might find an Arabian Nights setting more suitably in character for a make-over, as offered at an oasis of luxury up the Dubai Creek.

This is the Amara Spa, set amidst waving palms and lush gardens, the scent of fragrant oils heavy upon the air, but with nary a dancing girl in sight, it seems.

Part of the Park Hyatt hotel, it is, however, offering a special package for couples during November that could be a feature in a Bond movie. Starting with an outdoor rain shower, there is a foot and hand cleansing ritual on the couple’s private terraced garden, accompanied by their choice of music. Proceed to a coffee and frankincense “Enrich” body polish, for smooth and polished skin and then a massage with elements of Swedish, Reflexology and Indian Head techniques. A Hydra Radiance facial should cleanse and revive the complexion. Our couple may then relax beside the pool to be served from the Spa haute cuisine menu… Bond would know what to do next.

If you miss the November slot, there are various packages of Eastern promise at this luxury retreat, just minutes from the hot spots of Dubai city. Go to www.hyatt.com