Tag Archives: spa

Shangri-La Vancouver

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Every time I walk into a Shangri-La hotel, a sense of calm washes over me, body and mind. The Vancouver establishment is no different, although it is located in the centre of the bustling city, inside there is a quiet and serene atmosphere. It is business-like but always with time for luxury.

We were extremely comfortable in a deluxe one bedroom suite, which felt like a mini apartment. Every detail and amenity is here to ensure you have a seamless stay. The living room area was kitted out with a writing desk and plush sofa, and a bottle of red wine and a platter of lovely cheeses was laid out for our enjoyment.

The suite was decorated in creams and muted greys with accents of red from the oriental artwork on the walls. The kingsize bed looked very inviting, topped with numerous bouncy pillows. For ease and comfort the blinds and curtains are controlled by digital panels next to the bed… perfect for jetlagged customers who want to watch the sun rise over the city.

Next door the en-suite white marble clad bathroom definitely had the wow factor, with a regal bath, glass encased shower, cosy bathrobes and L’Occitane toiletries. I enjoyed several bubble baths during my one night stay!

The Asian influence is evident throughout the building and all its facilities, but there are also touches of international charm, which I noticed particularly in the upmarket eatery, Market run by acclaimed chef Jean-Georges. We ate here for dinner and breakfast the next morning, and on both occasions the food was wholesome and tasty.

In the evening Market has a glamorous feel, the lights are dimmed and everywhere I looked elegant couples or trendy friends were chatting and laughing. We trusted our waiter with the cocktail choices, all of which are made with house-made syrups and fresh ingredients. I would recommend the Ginger Margarita, a spicy, sweet drink with a salty kick. Our dinner was a feast of Mediterranean style dishes. I soon regretted us only ordering one portion of corn ravioli with cherry tomatoes, shallots and basil, as it was a delicate and delicious bowl of pasta, a must for vegetarian diners. For main course we tried a simply cooked beef tenderloin with bearnaise sauce and Parmesan crusted chicken with white asparagus. I found the chicken bland and unexciting, there was too much on the plate and it needed seasoning, but the steak was a faultless piece of meat, tender and rich and cooked to perfection with a crispy caramelised edge.

For breakfast the choices are much more obviously Canadian. The French toast with spiced apple, bacon and maple syrup is unmissable and the omelette was delicious too. Every morning the team offer a complimentary smoothie and we were pleased to taste the pretty purple blueberry special.

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My favourite part of this city sanctuary hotel was the sophisticated Chi spa. I spent a wonderful ninety minutes here totally immersed in a signature Shangri-La treatment. The Chi Aroma Vitality began with a tea ritual, whilst my tired feet were cleansed and massaged. Then I was left to warm my muscles for ten minutes in a private steam room before I lay on the silky soft bed for a full body massage.

Whilst staying at the Shangri-La Vancouver, I was blissfully unaware of the city life outside. Suddenly searching for exciting shops and cafes didn’t seem so important, as I felt so content at the hotel. As a guest in an unfamiliar foreign city, I don’t think you could hope for anything more.

More information and book a stay at Shangri-La Vancouver here.

Agua Bathhouse and Spa, Mondrian Hotel

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Monday evenings are usually reserved for dance classes or relaxing at home. But a few weeks ago I spent a Monday evening at the Mondrian hotel spa and was utterly enamoured with this underground haven.

The new Mondrian hotel seems to tick every box: excellent location overlooking the river, contemporary and characterful bedrooms, luxury amenities and a destination bar with award-winning mixologist Ryan Chetiyawardana. Initially the spa seems to be a bit of an afterthought, hidden on a quiet lower floor, but after experiencing the retreat I felt it was reason alone to visit this hotel.

Agua Bathhouse and Spa feels exclusive and boutique, with striking design, creative product choices and a carefully curated list of signature treatments. Every detail is fine tuned to make the spa experience faultless and memorable. After admiring the amusing ‘I Love My Muff’ products on offer in the reception I was shown through to the smart changing room area, fully stocked with my favourite Malin & Goetz products. A bowl of thick mud was waiting for me outside the luxurious steam room, and I gladly coated my body in the moisturising mask whilst breathing in the cleansing warm air.

Feeling thoroughly cleansed I went through for my Custom Mondrian massage. The room was simply designed and dimly lit, creating an uncluttered zen atmosphere. I was sandwiched between the softest sheets on the bed and asked about my preference of scent. This treatment uses the Soveral oils, which are blended individually for each customer to create the perfect aromatic oil for your needs. A mix of Lavender, Frankincense and Peppermint was used for me to give a relaxing and soothing effect. It was 50 minutes of bliss, and my brilliant therapist used a range of techniques to target difficult areas of tension in my body. As I left, i was handed a lovely little bottle of the oil to take away and use at home.

After the massage guests are taken through to the relaxation room, a spacious area with reclining beds, magazines and plenty of herbal teas. The staff here go above and beyond the norm to ensure the relaxation experience continues after your treatment. I was given a fluffy duvet, a lovely oriental pot of camomile tea and a hot water bottle… I could have fallen asleep for the night.

Whether you are visiting Agua Bathhouse and Spa for some much needed alone time, or with friends, there are a range of unique and effective options carefully designed to suit every occasion. Next time I visit I am keen to try the sunrise yoga, and for girly groups the mud parties sound unmissable.

More information and book a spa treatment here.

Como Shambhala Urban Escape, Park Lane

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Como spa

A few years ago I visited the Como Hotel in Bangkok, a serene oasis in the centre of the chaotic and hot city. The Metropolitan Como Hotel in London has a similar feel, laid back luxury with a hint of Asian influence. The spa is hidden on the second floor, a discreet but luxurious little retreat, far removed from the business focused Park Lane below.

I was greeted by several members of staff who showed me around the small spa. After a cup of zingy homemade ginger tea, I changed into a giant fluffy bathrobe and enjoyed a ten minute session in the steam room. Feeling cleansed and refreshed, I realised it was time for my treatment, the signature Como Shambhala massage with Yuki.

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Tucked up and cosy in the massage bed, I felt relaxed for the first time in days and ready for the pampering session. This massage uses long hand strokes to give the body balance and harmony. I had a choice of aromatic oil scents and chose the Calm variety, a mix of lavender and geranium. Despite her shy demeanour, Yuki had great strength and undeniable ability. She seemed to instantly work out the maze of knots in my back and used miraculous movements to ease them away. Her expertise in Shiatsu massage showed in the immaculate finger pressure techniques that she used on my problematic areas. It was an hour of total heaven, I didn’t want to leave.

Revitalised and relaxed, I changed and ordered a delicious fresh juice, a tropical mix of mango, coconut water, papaya, orange and lime. A sweet and vibrant pick-me-up before returning to the mayhem of London.

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The Como Shambhala spa is a small venue offering treatments that make a big difference to how you feel. I cannot wait to return to try out one of the other innovative massages.

More information and book a treatment here.