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Spa & Wellness

World’s best Luxury Spa resorts with a difference

Nandini Rathi / March 27, 2012

For those who are planning to go on a luxurious spa holiday, we have rounded up world’s best spas which stand-out for the facilities and treatments offered. From the ultra-indulgent treatments to their unique location, these world’s best spas are designed to pamper you and de-stress you. Take your pick.

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1) Caviar Treatment At Ritz-Carlton New York Spa

Main Caviar Treatment

The rave this year at The Ritz-Carlton, New York has been centered on its La Prairie spa. The buzz is all about its new $1,000 white caviar facial. Prairie’s old-fashioned Swiss glamour on Sixth Avenue has had a touch of glamour with its innovative spa treatments especially, its signature White Caviar Illuminating System.

For the uninitiated, the caviar face treatment need not conjure up fishy sensations. A good mix of other ingredients adds to the distinctness of this unique massage system such as caffeine and natural seed extracts which re-defines this unique massage pack. Touted as the ultimate skin nourishing potion, the treatment claims to enhance and hydrate one’s complexion its maximal potential!

The popularity of the caviar massage is what generally prompts people staying at the Ritz to ask for a service upgrade at the La Prairie spa when compared with the demands for other massage treatments.

The ninety minutes pampering session incorporates three variants of the White Caviar Illuminating System – an eye serum, an illuminating serum and the illuminating cream. The treatment cost valued at around $1,150 is inclusive of the product value.

According to masseurs, the caviar extracted from the sturgeon fish is a good exfoliating agent, which firms and moisturizes the skin at the same time. La Prairie’s selling proposition is aimed at providing an exemplary skin-firming body treatment for women seeking the ‘perfect’ radiance. The caviar treatment is perhaps the ultimate experience in complexion renewal therapy. If not tested, the caviar treatment could remain a misnomer and for the curious cat, let this not be mere wishful thinking!

2) Gold Facial At Four Seasons Spa

Main Gold Facial At Four Seasons Spa

A visit to Florence is said to remain incomplete without experiencing the Medici grandeur of the Four Seasons Hotel. The 14th century palazzo-style lavish architecture is an attraction which doubles up in its famed 24-Karat Gold Facial at the exclusive Four Seasons Spa.

A UMO Japanese innovation, the two hour luxurious experience is based on a patented PGA or Nano mist technology. At $ 560, the gold facial is processed to harness the traditional properties of the yellow metal that has been linked to its hydrating, cleansing and revitalizing impact on the skin.

A rich source of vitamins, gold metal is known to deliver its properties to the deepest layers of the skin while rejuvenating the skin’s inner and outer texture. The UMO technology is said to dissolve and lodge the 24-karat yellow metal which is then transmitted using extremely thin aureate leaves. The extracted liquid gold is then incorporated as part of the facial treatment that activates the skin cells and renders a lift to the skin by firming and lightening the skin.

When applied to the face, the UMO gold therapy is rendered using an ultrasonic nano mist technology that deposits the gold in the form of water droplets on to the skin. It then spreads on the facial surface, giving the skin its restorative look.

So how trustworthy can this PGA technique be? Believe it or not the gamma PGA ingredient is nothing but the traditional Japanese soybean which when aligned with the UMO gold facial harnesses the skin’s natural acids giving a natural glow to the skin. The gold facial also makes the skin firmer and elastic beyond its own collagen properties!

The gold aura therapy has now been extended to other Four Seasons Resort chains like the one at Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita. Launched in December 2011, the 90-minute patented gold treatment is also available with other customized treatment upgrades.

3) Wine Spa at Kenwood Inn & Spa

Wine Spa At Kenwood Inn & SpaA sojourn across Napa valley is an easy lure for wine but, a better option to drinking wine is to literally soak in the grape extract! This experience is a reality at the Tuscan style villa at America’s first ‘Vinotherapie’ resort, Kenwood Inn & Spa.

Kenwood’s signature treatments at its wine spa are derived from the anti-aging properties of grapes and its extracts. The hallmarked Kenwood Wine Bath and the Kenwood Wine Wrap are therapies that are sought after for its clinically positive treatment that is much acclaimed for skin rejuvenation.

The exclusive treatments at Kenwood blend in the traditional healing power of grape extracts and its oil adjuncts. The treatment believes in the time-tested appeal of red wine extracts and the goodness of Chardonnay and Riesling in oil formats for skin healing.

Kenwood’s Vinotherapy is a combination of wraps and scrubs that is based on organic ingredients for complete mind and body healing. The 20-minute long Kenwood Wine Bath therapy at $ 55 is worth a deal and is a good before-and-after option for experiencing Kenwood’s exclusive spa treatments. Soaking in a wine-filled Jacuzzi, overlooking the famed Napa Vineyards is definitely a tempting offer. The aromatic bath promises to heal, relax and rejuvenate tired muscles.

The other innovative Kenwood treatments include the Harvest Sugar Scrub and the Rosemary Salt Scrub, both offered at $135. Kenwood’s Nourishing Honey Wrap at $165 and the Wine Wrap at $175 grab attention too! Most treatment incorporates Kenwood’s signature grape-extract potion that blends in chardonnay and Riesling oil along with red wine extract.

The 80-minute long Kenwood Wine Wrap is a treatment base that combines an earthy blend of red wine extract, clay mixtures, essential oils and rosemary hydrosol. The wrap claims to detoxify the body while stimulating the body’s circulation. Kenwood’s signature grape seed lotion is an important ingredient of this therapy that also includes a neck, shoulder and scalp rub-down.

The luxurious and nourishing Honey Wrap treatment combines raw honey with red wine extract. This therapy incorporates neroli and chamomile adjuncts for a refreshing feel that eases out anxiety. The honey preserves its bounty by aiding the immune system while hydrating dry or sensitized skin.

The Harvest Sugar Scrub treatment includes a treatment base comprising of organic sugar cane, milled grape seeds along with oil extracts of Chardonnay, Riesling oil and red wine. The concoction promises to keep skin nourished and rejuvenated. The 50-minute treatment also includes a scalp massage.

The 50-minute long exfoliating Rosemary Salt Scrub treatment involves combining Dead Sea salts with olive oil which is mixed with rosemary extracts for worn out skin. The citrus oil component in the massage Is a mood enhancer too!

4) Swarovski Steam Room at Bad Ragaz Resort

Swarovski Steam Room At Bad Ragaz Resort

The Swiss Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, a popular spa halt within an hour’s drive from Zurich boasts of a natural extravaganza snuggled within the Swiss green mountains.

Add to this, the hotel’s luxurious 5,500sqm of spa space lends allure with its Roman baths, Finnish Sauna, Kneipp Circuit and Ice Cave. The glamour appeal however makes the rank at the Sauna World extension of the To B. Wellbeing & Spa which is dedicated to crystal manufacturers Swarovski. Decorated with around 300 Swarovski hallmarked crystals, the steam room offers a ‘twinkling’ aura within a steam bath experience that is scented with lavender and mint. The changing Swarovski-laden soft lights are programmed to soothe the senses while expel pores and other skin impurities!

The Swarovski face-lift at the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz also offers Europe’s first hot-spring indoor pool. It is claimed that Swarovski’s Swiss resort connection has been an inspiration for a similar resort in Canada.

5) Spa On The Rocks

Main  Spa On The RocksBali’s cliff-top Ayana Resort and Spa is a tribute to its surrounding exotic landscape. Located above the Jimbaran Bay, the 77 hectare of sprawling tropical gardens, south of the Ngurah Rai International Airport could be mistaken for a pathway to heaven!

The former Ritz Carlton Bali Resort & Spa maintains its oceanfront spa magic via its ‘Spa on the Rocks’ concept. The spa treatments are based on the traditional Indonesian use of herbal ingredients for an integrated body and soul rejuvenating experience.

A popular head-to-toe therapy incorporates facial massages for cleansing, exfoliation and skin nourishment. Other products aim to impact mature skin for enhancing anti-aging treatments as part of facials. The attractiveness of the rejuvenating package is that most of the treatments are rendered while facing the azure of the Indian Ocean with the freshness of the sea breeze that has a calming effect on the senses.

Because seawater is holy for the Balinese, most facial treatments incorporate seawater as an important component of the treatments. The popular Thalasso therapy is based on using sea water at the top-most cliff point which coincides with the apt atmospheric pressure at the spa. The spa also boasts of an Aquatonic seawater therapy pool that combines Asian beauty therapies with tested European products.

The Diamond Miracle therapy is the most popular that lasts for two and a half hours. The treatment includes a foot soak and massage, leading on to a complete torso scrub. Following which, the idea is to soak in a tub filled with 500 freshly plucked rose petals! The massage itself incorporates potions made of diamond dust, oils blended in with silk and pearl ingredients. The therapy ends with a somber experience of Champagne and strawberries.

The spa’s signature concoctions are a blend of herbs from the Indonesian forests. The other popular potions include the use of Thermes Marins and Guinot products in facials and anti-aging treatments. Apart from the aromatic petal massage, the Marine Wave Deluxe and the Cinta Abadi has a good enough fan-following at Bali’s renowned cliff-top spa!

6) Spa For Kids at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Spa For Kids at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

‘My First Series’ is the spa concept focused on clients as young as four years at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Considered as an introduction package to spa therapy, the spa offers treatments that work on kids to help them prepare for healthy skin care regimes.

Guests in the 12 -14 age groups are entitled to regular spa treatments while those above 14 years are allowed to savor the service only when accompanied by adults. They can avail of massages, water and other body treatments. Children can choose from a set of 25-minute facial packages that offers skincare health guidance. Mini versions of the regular manicure, pedicure and massages also form part of the spa regime for kids.

An extension to the Grand Floridian spa menu is the “Mother & Daughter Day” spa experience. At $490.00, the combo mother-daughter skin care package includes customized mini facials, massages and other regular body treatments to make the experience memorable for the after years.

7) Saffire Spa at Saffire Freycinet

Main Saffire Spa at Saffire FreycinetLocated on Tasmania’s East Coast, the luxurious coastal resort, Saffire Freycinet adds to Australia’s penchant for the good life.The spa’s signature treatment not only incorporates diamonds and gold but sapphire dust as a novelty in facials and body treatments offered at the resort. The jewel based-treatments believe in the energizing power of precious gems that is seen to blend well with ingredients available naturally in the region.

The treatment list is endless with its Gold Stem Facial, the Diamond Facial, the Diamond Magnetic Ritual and the Sapphire Ritual. A novel and eclectic “All Sapphire Experience” is expected to stimulate the yogic manifestations of ‘chakras’ in the system. At around a starting rate of $1300, the Sapphire Experience can be further upgraded.

While the Gold Stem Facial utilizes nano-technology for restoring the skin texture, the Diamond Facial is an anti-aging package that incorporates Natura Bisse Diamond to exfoliate and firm the skin.If you haven’t had enough, the diamond magnotherapy luminous mask to banish objectionable residues from our system could be a good try as part of the Diamond Magnetic Ritual.

The Sapphire Ritual is a tribute to the Balinese belief that sapphire-blue topaz as a symbol of wisdom helps to balance the energy field. When placed on the forehead, the luminosity of the sapphire promises to rejuvenate the body’s in-built natural cellular luminosity!

8) Queen Mary 2 Sea Spa

Queen Mary 2 Sea Spa

Under the aegis of Her Majesty’s Cunard Line service, the luxurious ocean liner QM2 is heralded beyond its historical significance. Much of the acclaim goes to the ‘Canyon Ranch SpaClub’ at sea, onboard the Queen Mary 2.

A luxurious forte, the Canyon Ranch is strictly restricted to connoisseurs who cherish getting pampered at sea amidst the lap of luxury that defines QM2. Apart from rejuvenating treatments, the Canyon Ranch resort is famed for its wellness delicacies and delicatessen from the royal Britannia Restaurant.

Spread across two decks (onboard deck 7 and 8), the 20,000 square-foot spa sprawl includes a thalasso-therapy pool and a thermal suite adapted to herbal and Finnish sauna baths. Other facilities include reflexology basins, sensory showers and an aromatic steam room among other regular treatment and health facilities.

The spa package is not always inbuilt with the voyage package and can be availed for singular services too. At starting prices of $25 to around $80, service upgrades are possible depending on the number of stays aboard the ocean liner. This apart, the spa runs special wellness workshops on board the liner with talks focused on anti-aging, diet and nutrition.

 9) Huvafen Fushi Lime Underwater Spa

Huvafen Fushi Lime Underwater Spa

Lime Underwater Lagoon Spa at the Huvafen Fushi resort near North Male’, Maldives regales on the British architectural marvels of Richard Hywel Evans making it a one-off spa experience.

The first ever underwater spa, Lime derives its strength from the location and natural scenic blue aura which is a perfect tranquil getaway. The chic-island resort aligns itself with the natural rhythms of the surrounding reef.

The spa interiors take inspiration from the surrounding ocean life. Color coding within the interiors provide special lighting and the pebble flooring create a feel of the undersea for the ultimate blue lagoon experience!

The spa offers rejuvenating massages along with yoga and other fitness regimes. The treatments are made available at the underwater spa rooms which make the experience unique and ‘out of this world’! The concept of a separate relaxation shell before or after a treatment makes the entire experience mesmerizing against the aquamarine water stretch.

The signature Per Aquum Spa Collection treatments include The Unite Me – Crystal Ritual that incorporates Maldivian sand and lime mineral poultice as a soothing facial or body treatment. The lime is sourced locally along with Maldivian virgin coconut oil as part of the massage. Local herbs are incorporated in the treatment packs. Massage tools are made from coconut which makes the experience ‘down to earth’! The other treatments include traditional Indian head to toe oil bath or Shirodhara, besides treatments such as Thalasso therapy, Aromatherapy, Herbal wrap and Hydrotherapy.

10) Hotel Victor Spa V

Main Hotel Victor Spa V

Miami and Spa V do seem to qualify each other. Part of the Hotel Victor, Thompson Hotel group, the service is targeted at the well heeled traveler for its South Beach luxury. The Spa V is synonymous with ‘Evian’ and utilizes close to 350 gallons of this bottled goodness for its spa treatments!

Covering close to 6000 square feet, the spa experience derives concepts from the traditional as is with its Hammam or the Turkish steam bath. It is said that naturalists can soak themselves in their birthday suits within the confines of the Hammam for the ultimate spiritual refine feel! The Vichy shower room offers detoxification and hydration via 7-headed rain bars that pour in the mineral-based concoctions for a fresh feel.

The Jacques Garcia design elements sets the lure for the European-styled spa services that include facial and body massages that range at $ 125-$ 360 and are tagged as ‘Relax Me’, ‘Stretch Me’, ‘Knead Me’, ‘Stone Me’, ‘Mom Me’ et al. With individualized spa packages, guests avail choice of manicures and pedicures starting $30-$100. The $100 Gold Bubble Jelly Pedicure is a signature service that combines the cleansing properties of gold with a soothing jelly base massage which lends a Maica gold glow to the feet!

The gold facial dedicated to the famed Queen Cleopatra uses 24k gold in combination with herbal oils to detoxify the skin. The treatment is based on ancient Ayurveda. Cleopatra’s body treatment at around $170 is an exclusive variation along with other ‘Soften Me’, slimming, detoxifying and revitalizing treatments. They are priced at $75- $170 based on the service.

11) Hotel Aurelio Lech Aurelio Spa

Hotel Aurelio Lech Aurelio Spa

Aurelio Lech, Austria’s most famed luxurious ski and spa lodge is a delight for skiers. Nestled across the snowy slopes of the Arlberg region, the spa at Aurelio Lech offers a holistic day spa experience.

Personalized treatments are endowed with modern fitness equipment, personal trainers and several indoor pools at the ski-village resort.

The Lech Aurelio spa distinguishes itself in creating a peaceful aura amidst the hi-tech environment which could appeal to science fiction fans! Aurelio’s thermal suite and open fires within the tranquil meditation centre can lure guests in to a state of calmness!

The recommended treatment is the 60 minutes combined reflexology and intensive sport massage at £85 for 60 minutes. The herbal sauna at the spa offers aroma vapor bath with other pool-based experiences such as a cooling-off pool, adventure showers, blossom bath and Jacuzzi. The Spa at Aurelio Lech is taker for a complete mind and body healing.

12) Hilton Orlando Family Spa

Hilton Orlando  Family Spa

The 24,000 sq foot extensive Hilton spa at Orlando blends in traditional treatment concepts within a modern set-up. While it endorses Guerlain products and related treatment, the scope is to experience massage products that blend in traditional oils such as Neroli for reliving of the senses.

The Guerlain signature therapies are available at $149- $350 for facials, $75 -$ 300 for body therapies and $149- $298 for harmonizing massages. Guests can also experience the calming impact of moisture-rich eucalyptus infusion at the modern steam room.

A neroli foot bath is also possible at the designated relaxation room. The exclusive Spa Boutique sells Kerstin Florian product lines too! The signature Swedish ReFresh massage, a blend of pure Neroli and warm lavender begins with an invigorating eucalyptus foot bath that incorporates one of four organic aromatherapy oil blends.

Spa packages such as the Neroli Signature Antioxidant Facial, Signature Neroli Stone Massage, the Peninsula Paradise Spa Manicure, Refresh the Color for lips & eyes and the Signature Appetizer and at the Hilton is pegged around $405!

Body therapies such as the Lavender Dreams Ultimate Experience and the Thalasso Ritual are much desired. This apart, the Peninsula Paradise Spa Manicure, a two step renewal treatment incorporates citric acid exfoliation, and paraffin bath to hydrate the skin.

A unique foot therapy at the Hilton involves a four step exfoliation using beach sand, quartz, sea salts and AHA (alpha hydroxyl acid) components. The award winning Cucumber Heel Therapy at Hilton is a must along with the rejuvenating algae foot masque. The spa services can be availed of at costs that vary between $30 for spa enhancements and $ 220 for a Thalasso Ritual service. It is surely a heavenly bliss for the desirous few!

13) Diamond Massage Spa at Spa on Location

Diamond Massage Spa at Spa On Location

The California based ‘Spa on Location’ qualifies as a luxury mobile day spa that reaches client doorsteps for the ultimate rejuvenating experience within known surroundings.

The Santa Monica based mobile spa has created a niche via its diamond massage concept. Seen as a trend setter, the alternate medical concept of the glamorous jewel has been adapted by the ‘Spa On Location’ team as a luxurious technique for wannabe souls.

An innovative stance was sought when the company teamed up with Hearts on Fire diamonds for its one million dollars diamond massage touted as the Dream Girl massage. Another package involved using 1.5 carat diamond powder on the skin for detoxification. The diamond therapy is said to also protect the skin against electromagnetic waves.

An innovative concept has been to organize spa parties that charge up to $ 240 for a 1.5 hours regular group massage sessions. Other variations include $700 package for up to 20 guests for a 15-minute chair massage session. Desirous of the diamond studded package? A quote is offered strictly on appointment!

14) Golden Door Spa

Golden Door Spa

If Hilary Swank can glow golden at the Golden Door Spa, it sure demands fan following. Recipient of the 2011 SpaFinder Readers’ Choice Crystal Award, the Golden Door Spa is the 16,000 square feet elegant sprawl attached to the Waldorf Astoria Park City, Utah.

The inspiration behind Golden Door Spa is to create a combined therapy that interlocks the ancient Japanese traditions of honjin inns with the Zen Buddhist kinhin or walking meditation. The meditative approach is to evoke personal soul therapy. The environment is tuned in with sand gardens, koi ponds, and eastern antiquated stone lanterns.

A popular treat is the one-off 80 minutes, $215 Golden Door Custom Facial. The treatment derives potencies from natural and organic sources, fruits, vegetables and herbs and involves cleansing and exfoliation. Other signature treatments include the 80 minutes, $260 Caviar beauty regime and the 80 minutes, $225 Biodynamic facial. The Bodydynamic therapy is a certified, first of its kind organic skin treatment from Hungary. Testing the Golden Door Spa could be worth the swank!

15) Chiva-Som Spa Thailand

Chiva-Som Spa Thailand

The exclusive literal expression “Haven of Life” or Chiva-Som, Thailand represents a spa resort that combines medical benefits along with beauty therapies for a complete healing of mind and body.

Treatments offered could vary depending on whether the problems are muscular or skeletal, those that are related to skin disorders or problems that are stress related. Packages are offered for medical ailment such as cardiac rehabilitation and even anti-smoking regimes!

This Royal resort doubles up as a medical center and all therapies are delivered after prior consultations with doctors, therapists, dieticians and nurses. Overlooking the Thai Gulf, guests experience complete rejuvenation at one of the 57 Thai-styles suites, pavilions and single room options.

Equilibropathy and Chi Nei Tsang are some of the traditional techniques offered at Chiva-Som. Equilibropathy is a technique that balances the body contour and form by aligning it to the mind, bringing in clarity while releasing the spirit from stress. Chi Nei Tsang is an internal organ massage centered on the navel and the abdominal area. The technique is expected to release negative emotions, bringing in relief to the abdominal area thus energizing the internal organs.

A non-invasive therapy offered at the Chiva-Som uses a therapy to activate and release tiny electrical impulses which stimulate muscles leading to cell regeneration, lymph cleansing, toxin removal and a toned and firm skin.

Body treatments such as traditional Thai massage and the full Swedish body massage is also available. The E’Spa Mud Envelopment and E’Spa Detoxifying Algae Wrap is available along with medical services such as urinalysis, blood testing, electrocardiogram, oxygen power fitness, diet cleansing program et al.

Separate pavilions are provided for yoga and Tai Chi. Other facilities include air-conditioned studios for aerobics, outdoor pool by the beach and a Kneipp bath of pebbles in cold and hot pool for foot massage. These facilities make Chiva-Som an ideal getaway for holistic healing!

16) Cabane Tree House Spa

Main Cabane Tree House Spa

The success of its home in the woods getaway concept, the Cabane Tree house at Montauban, South France has given shape to its new spa resort SHACK & SPA that will be launched at Marmande, near Bordeaux in July.

Aligned with the green concept, the wood used for facilities showcase all weather sunny terraces offering an exceptional tree house feeling for the young at heart. Perched over a height of four meters, the stay and spa facilities evoke an adventurous feeling. The lodging prices could range at 225 € to 245 € / night as per the peak or off-peak seasons.

17) Butlins Ocean Spa

Butlins Ocean Spa

Located in West Sussex, the Butlins Ocean Spa Bognor Regis, is a haven for those seeking a getaway, South of England. The Ocean Spa is a popular haunt for seeking soul salvation for spa services below £200.

The 670 sqm sprawl offers a range of service to fit almost all pockets. A luxurious back, neck and scalp massage is offered as an on-the–house service for guests booked on one of Butlins chosen re-mineralizing facials. The Spa includes a snow cave and close to 70 different treatments with a start price £20 onwards.

The premium segment includes massages derived from natural minerals, mud, salt and seaweed for a complete rejuvenating experience. The Ocean Spa also offers a specialized 25 minutes sitting target at men for £35. Classic sports highlights are projected on the treatment walls before the start of the muscle rejuvenating package which promises to relieve muscle related aches and pains while also relaxing the mind.

Some of the other facials listed are the £75 Touch of Gold Magnificent facial lasting 75 minutes, £125 Beauty and the Beach facial that incorporates seaweed and mud as the primary ingredients. The £60 pregnancy pre-treatment is focused on new mums at 12 weeks+ who can revive their changing bodies during the pregnant phase. The treatment involves a three-part exfoliation, facial and foot hydration along with leg and scalp massage.

The other innovations are the Bye Bye Bump Post Natal Treatment at £75. Other services that range from £28 to £65 include the basic Mini Massage leading on to more diverse ones such as the Tranquility Shiatsu Deep Tissue Massage, a Heavenly Head, Neck & Shoulder Massage, the Comfort Lomi Lomi Hawaiian Massage, and the Silky Skin 2-in-1 Exfoliation & Massage. The Peace Hot Stones Massage uses Hawaiian hot stones for a deeper relaxing experience giving the Butlin touch to the Ocean Spa experience!

18) Bota Bota luxury floating spa

Bota Bota luxury floating spa

Bota Bota, Spa-Sur-L’eau is an architectural delight that blends in with the ripples of the St Lawrence River. The converted 57-year old mid-century ferry boat has found new vistas in its new avatar as the famed Bota Bota floating spa in Montreal.

Sid Lee’s architectural acumen has given a contemporary touch to the old-world maritime features of the ferry with its awe inspiring 360 degree view of the surrounding panorama.

Housed across five decks, the float’s interior is built-in with modern spa installations such as saunas, steam bath, cold plunges, Jacuzzis and open terraces.

The spa conjures up a sublime weightless feel against the outer water body and this experience comes at a starting cost of $ 45 for the treatment packages on offer. These include massages, body and facial treatments; also manicure and pedicures. Demand is high for spending time at the two saunas that provide an amazing backdrop of the Old Port and dock. The eucalyptus steam bath, sea-weed wraps, an open-air whirlpool adds maritime flavor to the spa experience!

19) Banyan Tree Spa at Marina Bay Sands

Banyan Tree Spa at Marina Bay Sands

Perched on to the 55th floor of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel in Singapore, the Banyan Tree Spa is considered as an oasis in the sky. The 1,213 urban sprawl, inspired by the ‘Tree Of Life’ concept is an architectural delight with treatments being offered at 15 of the spa’s exquisitely designed parlors. Guests can choose from 35 treatments and services at the spa.

The most sought after packages are those that offer 90 to 120 minutes massages, facials, scrub-downs and other beauty treatments. The traditional features include the ubiquitous Thai, Swedish, Balinese and Hawaiian Lomi Lomi treatments with added demand for sports related back massages. The exclusive royal double spa suites offer tropical Rain Mist treatment which is cooled off further at the tea lounge as a post-treatment benefit.

At Singapore $100, guests can savor the Banyan Hand Essentials, Banyan Hand Royale and Banyan Foot Essentials while spending a little over Singapore $140 qualifies for the Banyan Foot Royale treatment !

20) Amethyst Crystal Steam Room At Mandarin Oriental

Amethyst Crystal Steam Room At Mandarin Oriental

Located 35 storeys above the Manhattan skyline, the amethyst crystal steam room at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel spa, is an ethereal experience.

The sprawling 14,500-square-foot spa works on the format of time-driven rituals such as the 80-minute amethyst ritual. At a cost of $348, the therapy promises to balance one’s ‘doshas’ for harmonizing the self!

The treatment packages are centered on the ancient Chinese, Thai and Indian concepts including ayurveda. Ayurvedic science is based on holistic healing that sustains itself by balancing an individual’s inbuilt energy widths or ‘doshas’.

The heat area and the vitality pool are the first steps to a journey that promises to detoxify the body. The combined facilities at the amethyst crystal steam room and a three bar rain shower is expected to rejuvenate the senses.

The presence of a large amethyst crystal placed in the wall provides the cosmic energy centre that is said to bring in a good feel and remove bad vibes from one’s system. An hour long ritual at $464 promises a skin rub down, massage and an Oriental body wrap and head massage.

Besides, one can choose a range of aromas to revitalize the senses. The spa promises treatments to boost the immune system and also therapies to eliminate jet lag! At $125, a holistic pedicure could just be the start to the extravagant amethyst steam-room cleansing!

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