a guide to relaxation
SPA DAYS the best spa experiences around the world
a guide to relaxation
SPA DAYS the best spa experiences around the world
CONTENTS INTRODUCTION 1 MAP 2 AFRICA 4 Chobe Chilwero — Botswana Delaire Graff — South Africa Gribb’s Farm — Tanzania The Oyster Box — South Africa Royal Zambezi Lodge — Zambia
9 12 17 20 25
ASIA 28 Amatara — Thailand Como Shambhala Estate — Indonesia Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Four Seasons the Nam Hai — Vietnam Kamalaya Koh Samui — Thailand
33 36 41 44 49
EUROPE 52 Adronis Concept — Greece Grand Resort — Switzerland La Reserve Ramatuelle — France Six Senses — Portugal Viva Mayr — Austria
57 60 65 68 73
NORTH AMERICA Mayflower Inn & Spa — USA Mii Amo — USA Northern Lights — Canada One and Only Palmilla — Mexico Sunrise Springs — USA Willow Stream Spa — Mexico
76 81 84 89 92 97 100
OCEANIA 104 Four Seasons Bora Bora — French Polynesia Millbrook Spa — New Zealand Qamea Resort & Spa — Fiji Saffire Freycinet — Australia Southern Ocean Lodge — Australia
109 112 117 120 125
SOUTH AMERICA
128
Faena Spa — Argentina Nayara Gardens — Costa Rica Tambo del Inka — Peru Tierra Patagonia — Chile Vik Chile
133 136 141 144 149
INDEX 153
INTRODUCTION As we all know, vacations can be far from relaxing. Traveling, navigating a new city, sightseeing, packing your itinerary so you don’t miss a thing — it is all so exhausting, and by the end of it, you’ll need a vacation from your vacation. That is why we’ve created A Guide to Relaxation. The three books in the A Guide to Relaxation series are all about travel destinations that help to renew the spirit and relax the body and mind. This particular book in the series, Spa Days, is filled with 31 of the best spas around the world. These spas aren’t just about a nice massage — these spas provide an experience. Whether it is unparalleled treatments, unique approaches to wellness, or unforgettable surroundings, these spas do things differently, and they are all highly rated for their excellent service. If you get tired of relaxing, we’ve suggested places to eat, places to drink, and activities to do around the area of each spa destination. The spa destinations on this list are all located in resorts or inns, so you could pop in for a treatment or you could stay for a week or more of relaxation.
Understanding relaxation ratings Each destination has a relaxation rating from 1 to 5. This does not mean that a spa with a rating of a 3 is worse or less relaxing than a spa with a 5. This rating refers to the amount of time you are expected to relax when at that particular destination. For example, if you find yourself at the spa at Chobe Chilwero in Botswana, you will probably spend some time doing other activities like safari rides or going to visit Victoria falls. For this reason, that spa receives a 3 out of 5 on the relaxation rating. A spa would receive a 5 out of 5 on the relaxation rating if it is expected that you will spend all of your time relaxing and receiving treatments — such as at a wellness resort in a secluded area that offers all-day or even all-week spa packages.
Introduction
1
MAP
18
12 16 17 19
13
15
14
20
11
21 28
3 22
29
31
30
2
5
1
27
2
4
AFRICA Chobe Chilwero — Botswana Delaire Graff — South Africa Gribb’s Farm — Tanzania The Oyster Box — South Africa Royal Zambezi Lodge — Zambia
1 2 3 4 5
ASIA Amatara — Thailand Como Shambhala Estate — Indonesia Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Four Seasons the Nam Hai — Vietnam Kamalaya Koh Samui — Thailand
6 7 8 9 10
EUROPE Adronis Concept — Greece Grand Resort — Switzerland La Reserve Ramatuelle — France Six Senses — Portugal Viva Mayr — Austria
11 12 13 14 15
NORTH AMERICA Mayflower Inn & Spa — USA Mii Amo — USA Northern Lights — Canada One and Only Palmilla — Mexico Sunrise Springs — USA Willow Stream Spa — Mexico
9 6
10
7 24
26 25
23
16 17 18 19 20 21
OCEANIA Four Seasons Bora Bora — French Polynesia Millbrook Spa — New Zealand Qamea Resort & Spa — Fiji Saffire Freycinet — Australia Southern Ocean Lodge — Australia
22 23 24 25 26
SOUTH AMERICA Faena Spa — Argentina Nayara Gardens — Costa Rica Tambo del Inka — Peru Tierra Patagonia — Chile Vik Chile
27 28 29 30 31
Map
3
4
AFRICA The African continent shines with an undeniable beauty. Africa is home to vast deserts, tropical rain forests, rugged mountains, and fertile grasslands. Africa is home to natural wonders like Mount Kilimanjaro and Lake Victoria, not to mention the variety of wild animals that attract people from all over the world. Of course, there is nothing more beautiful about a place than its people. Africa is home to thousands of tongues and many different cultures. We scoured this immense continent for the best spa experiences available. The spas on this list incorporate local cultural practices and also take advantage of the surrounding
environment. An African spa on this list can mean anything from a therapist setting up a massage table on the deck of your tented bush suite for a treatment as antelope graze nearby and bulbuls sing in the acacia trees above you, to a full-on series of steam rooms, mud treatments, hammams and other specialist wellness elements. Although each spa on this list provides a unique experience, you will feel relaxed and in-touch with nature at each one you visit. When you’re not receiving a massage treatment or taking a dip in the pool, we hope you’ll spend some time enjoying the incredible surroundings.
5
6
AFRICAN SPAS: AT A GLANCE
1 2 3 4 5
Spa at Chobe Chilwero | Botswana | Page 9 The Spa Chobe Chilwero combines local products and rituals in their one of a kind treatments. The lodge overlooks the Chobe River in Botswana’s most famous national park, home to Africa’s greatest concentration of elephants.
Delaire Graff | South Africa | Page 12 The Delaire Graff Estate is one of the most luxurious and pampering boutique hotels in Africa, with spectacular views over the mountains and vineyards of Stellenbosch outside Cape Town. All day treatments are available.
Gribb’s Farm | Tanzania | Page 17 With an 80 acre organic farm, Gribb’s Farm is a sanctuary for the senses to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul. At the spa, expert therapists create a custom designed series of treatments to suit your wellness needs.
The Oyster Box | South Africa | Page 20 The award-winning spa at the Oyster Box is secluded amid lush gardens that are home to songbirds and acrobatic vervet monkeys. The plunge pool, equipped with water jets, overlooks the magnificent gardens.
Royal Zambezi Lodge | Zambia | Page 25 The Spa at Royal Zambezi Lodge is a regular winner on ‘World’s Best Spa’ awards list. Enjoy being pampered on the banks of the mighty Zambezi, with the snorting of hippos and cries of African fish eagles in the air.
Africa
7
8
SANCTUARY CHOBE CHILWERO KASANE, BOTSWANA
Relaxation rating
Rating explanation This destination was given a rating of 3 because guests will likely want to spend a significant amount of time doing non-spa activities like safari rides and exploring the surroundings. This destination is perfect for those who seek a perfect combination of adventure and relaxation.
Africa
9
The spa at Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero is considered the best in Botswana. Inspired by the abundance of nature that surrounds the lodge, the spa has drawn from that beauty to develop a range of treatments and rituals of the highest quality to relax, restore and revitalise guests. Authentic African design has been integrated with the natural elements surrounding this luxury lodge and the spa only uses products, treatment methods and practices that are environmentally friendly. The luxurious facilities include an indoor spa bath, Vichy showers, hydrotherapy, relaxation areas and private treatment rooms, one of which is elevated in the treetops. With a range of treatments and rituals of the highest quality using products from both the Africology and Thalgo natural beauty lines, how can you resist? Outside there is a shower, seating area and hammock set within a private secluded garden. Guests at Chobe Chilwero can bask in the split-level swimming area after a morning photographing sable antelope, water-weeded hippo, long-horned kudu, sleepy crocodiles and adorable banded mongooses in Chobe National Park. Then watch the sun transform from egg-yolk yellow to a blood-red fireball as it sinks below the far-off horizon.
Enjoy amazing views of the surrounding greenery everywhere you turn at lodge Chobe Chilwero. You might be able to spot some animals while enjoying a cup of coffee made with local beans.
The science of relaxation Relaxation reduces symptoms of mental health conditions like depression, anxiety and schizophrenia. Relaxation also has other related health benefits, including: • lowering your blood pressure • reducing muscle tension and chronic pain • improving concentration and mood • reducing anger and frustration • boosting confidence to handle problems
10
Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero
A spa wouldn’t be complete without a pool area. Chobe Chilwero boasts a beautifully landscaped pool area with two large jacuzzis. After a dip in the pool, you can enjoy an expertly prepared lunch in the comfortable lounge areas.
Need a break from relaxing? Visit Victoria Falls Victoria falls is considered to be the world’s largest waterfall due to its width of 1,708 metres. Only an hour and a half ’s drive from the spectacular Victoria Falls, Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero is a great base from which to explore this great wonder of the world. The staff at the resort can even arrange travel to and from the falls. Knowledgeable tour guides can guide your visit, or you can explore the falls on your own. It is definitely worth taking a break from your relaxing spa activities to check out this breathtaking site.
Sundowner Cruise
Spa menu sneak peak African goddess anti-aging facial Price: 1480 Pula • 120 US Dollars This anti-aging facial uses healing essences of some of South Africa’s indigenous plants: rooibos, aloe ferox, marula and African potato.
The best way to end a day of safari is sipping on a cocktail while watching an African sunset over the still waters of the Chobe River. The specially designed riverboat allows you to sit in comfort while you take in the surroundings. Sundowner cruises are a great way of seeing buffalo and elephants up close as they graze and wade in the river in the evenings. Antelopes and sable can also be seen in abundance.
African milk bath ritual Price: 1400 Pula • 115 US Dollars Your entire body will glow after this exfoliating and softening milk bath ritual using all local ingredients and ancient techniques.
Treetop massage Price: 1600 Pula • 127 US Dollars Enjoy a full body 60 minute deep tissue massage high in the treetops. This treatment is also available as a couples massage.
Africa
11
DELAIRE GRAFF STELLENBOSCH, SOUTH AFRICA
Relaxation rating
Rating explanation Delaire Graff has earned a relaxation rating of 5 becuase you could easily spend days sitting by the pool and enjoying their all day spa packages. If you want a vacation of pure relaxation, then Delaire Graff is the place to be.
12
13
The Delaire Graff Estate is one of the most luxurious and pampering boutique hotels in Africa, with spectacular views over the mountains and vineyards of Stellenbosch outside Cape Town. Your journey to total relaxation and wellbeing begins at Delaire Graff Spa. Set in its own unique surroundings, there are five elegant spa suites for guests to experience an altogether more rarefied calm, where skin perfection and treatments leave the body and mind glowing. Expert hands guide guests in indulgent all-day spa rituals, pampering and wellness. A holistic experience from beginning to end, the spa welcomes all guests. Lodge guests and those joining for a half or full day journey package can take time out in the stunning infinity pool and destination restaurant. Spa experiences are crafted using the finest beauty products from Swiss Perfection, Aromatherapy Associates and Terres d’Afrique. Delaire Graff Spa looks after the mind, body and soul. Delightful massage therapies, expert maintenance, and revolutionary skin treatments such as diamond tip microdermabrasion go hand in hand with luxurious wraps and wellbeing journeys – all expertly delivered by experienced therapists using a range of globally renowned beauty, body and skin care products. Rituals change seasonally: the winter ritual (to coincide with peak safari season) may include a Margaret Dabbs express pedi, a Knesko collagen eye mask and a hydrating pressure-point facial topped off with a signature wine tasting. Be sure to take a dip into the 22 metre infinity pool, luxuriate in a heated jacuzzi, and feel at home within a panoramic Spa retreat. A captivating and peaceful place to rest in between therapeutic spa treatments, guests can be guaranteed the perfect spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the amazing hillside view in blissful tranquillity.
14
Delaire Graff
The Delaire Graff pool boasts an incredible view of the Stellenbosch vineyards. Grapes from the vineyards are used to produce delicious award-winning wines.
The science of relaxation Did you know that relaxation can boost memory? One study found that chronic stress impaired the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain involved in abstract thought, cognitive analysis and detecting the appropriate behavior for a given situation. A number of studies have also found that stress increases the amount of certain proteins in the brain that have been linked to Alzheimer’s, possibly accelerating the development of the disease.
Need a break from relaxing? Visit the D. Lewis sculpture garden The Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden is a place of expansive vistas, scents and the sounds of nature, with tranquil groves, hidden paths and lush indigenous vegetation. The project began in 2009 when Lewis hired an excavator on a whim and began shaping the contours of what would become the seven-hectare sculpture garden. The artist continues to explore themes integral to his work in this serene landscape on the slopes of the Stellenbosch Mountain. Visits are by appointment only.
Enjoy wine tasting
Spa menu sneak peak Sleep improvement therapy | 90 min Price: 1400 Rand • 80 US Dollars Improve sleep with frankincense, koshi chime therapy, and pineal gland stimulation using acupressure point therapy.
The Delaire Graff estate is home to The Wine Lounge, an elegant art-filled tasting space. Let welcoming sommeliers and wine tutors pour you something delicious to enjoy. There’s plenty to taste – from illustrious reds and whites to sparkling wine and rosé, from vine to bottle with the expert hands of the on site winemaker, Morné Vrey. Expert wine tutors can guide you through each award-winning wine.
Black pearl body illumination | 90 min Price: 2000 Rand • 120 US Dollars Dead sea salt and algae scrub, Cleopatra gold face mask, 24Karat body butter massage, and a Tahitian pearl powder skin treatment.
Precious diamond ceremony | 90 min Price: 2500 Rand • 150 US Dollars Targets pigmentation and brightens with diamond tip microdermabrasion. Also includes a golden silk hair treatment and a free gift.
Africa
15
16
GIBB’S FARM KARATU, TANZANIA
Relaxation rating
Rating explanation With an 80 acre organic farm and plenty of activites available, you will want to spend some time outside of the spa facilities enjoying the surroundings and interacting with others at the farm.
Africa
17
Each day at Gibb’s Farm follows a gentle rhythm. Discover a sanctuary for the senses to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul. A destination in itself and sanctuary for safari goers, take time to immerse in the sense of wellbeing at Gibb’s Farm. This historic organic farm and family coffee plantation covers over 80 acres on the forested outer slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater. The Spa at Gibb’s Farm is one of the best in the region. Every spa guest receives a personal wellness consultation from an expert therapist. Following the consultation, the therapists will design a series of treatments to soothe and revitalise. All treatments are all based on locally sourced herbs and rituals. Local elements — like arabica coffee beans and olkaria red clay — are used as well as over 50 indigenous plant species and rituals of the highest quality to relax, restore and revitalise guests. What makes this destination special is that it operates as an organic farm consisting of 30 acres of coffee, 10 acres of vegetables and fruit, 5 acres of flowers and herbs and a working dairy and pig farm. It is based upon sustainable farming methods, and everything is grown organically using only natural fertilizer and compost from the farm. Each thing about Gibb’s farm is a step towards creating a sanctuary for the senses. Even when you’re not in your spa treatment, there are plenty of opportunities to relax and be well.
The science of relaxation It’s no surprise that when you’re under stress, you might not always be thinking so clearly. Counterintuitively, stressed-out people actually tend to focus on the positive, and may ignore the consequences of the decision they’re about to make. The beautiful private outdoor showers feel like your own personal waterfall.
18
Gibb’s Farm
Need a break from relaxing? Go on a safari day trip Book a half or full day safari to one of the nearby wildlife regions: Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Eyasi or Lake Manyara. Experience the Big Five, cultural safaris and exceptional game viewing opportunities in 3 distinct locations, all less than a 2-hour drive from the Farm.
Learn about coffee processing Have you ever wondered about the process behind your morning coffee? If so, you should visit the coffee fields. Gibb’s Farm has 30 acres of organically cultivated, rich Arabica coffee fields. The beans are processed and roasted on the estate. At certain times of the year, you can view the process on the farm.
Take a nature walk
Spa menu sneak peak Ojingai heat revival | 60 min Price: 70 US Dollars Muslin parcels of handpicked medicinal herbs, heated over a fire and applied warm to the skin are a heavenly health treatment.
Gibb’s Farm offers two walks directly from the farm into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Elephant Caves & Waterfall Walk (2 hours) and the Farm to Crater Rim Walk (6-7 hours). Explore the forest where you may encounter buffalo, bushbuck, abundant birdlife and unique plants.
Build a desk Olkaria clay paint | 75 min Price: 85 US Dollars Olkaria red clay is used to remove superficial impurities and dead skin cells to soften the texture of the skin.
Arabica coffee scrub | 75 min Price: 85 US Dollars
Contribute to the creation of new school desks, distributed through the Karutu Education Fund. At schools in the area, three to four children typically share one desk, so new school furniture is always appreciated. You can have fun, learn a new skill, and help contribute to the community. Participation is arranged through Gibbs Farm.
Freshly roasted and ground Arabica coffee and Olkaria clay are blended with infused medicinal herbs for a body smoothing experience.
Africa
19
THE OYSTER BOX KWAZULU-NATAL, SOUTH AFRICA
Relaxation rating
Rating explanation This resort is a relaxation seeker’s dream. Everything you need is either located in the resort or within a close distance. That is, if you can pull yourself away from the spa. With dozens of treatments, several pools, and a specialty health menu, you won’t want to leave the spa facilities.
20
21
Set on the shores of Umhlanga, surrounded by secluded, tropical gardens and enriched with the sounds of nature, you’re in the ideal place to return to wellness at spa at The Oyster Box resort. Take a dip in the plunge pool, envigorate the body with a hammam and sensation shower at the spa, or work up a sweat in the fully equipped fitness room. Restore beauty and balance with all-natural B|Africa treatments, with holistic attention paid to all of your senses. Follow this by relaxing and meditating in the tranquility lounge. Signature treatments include full body massages using crystal-infused oil such as rose quartz, amethyst and rock quartz, to inspire a peaceful spirit. The expert therapists combine holistic principles with ancient wisdom and modern expertise to create a fully customized wellness experience just for you. Best of all, the spa is secluded in luscious tropical gardens filled with the chatter of monkeys, exotic birds and aromatic flowers. The spa even has its own expertly crafted health menu, which includes dishes such as sushi, spiced calamari, a range of salads, and rolled peach pavlova. Sip on a smoothie before joining in with a yoga class in the sunshine, overlooking the crashing waves of the ocean. There are also vegetarian and vegan options on offer at the award-winning Ocean Terrace restaurant. Everything you need is at the spa, so you can leave all your stress behind and focus solely on relaxing. The Oyster Box also supports local charities, such as Rhinos without Borders, the Amy Biehl Foundation and Pack for a Purpose. Guests are encouragd to care for the planet and participate in beach clean ups, offering a complimentary drink for every bucket of rubbish collected. And the resort is even home to their very own beehives that produce the hotel’s honey and contribute to the sustainability and biodiversity of South Africa’s very special ecosystem.
22
The Oyster Box
Lush greenery can be seen all throughout the luxury 5-star restort.
The science of relaxation Sheldon Cohen, Ph.D., a psychology professor at Carnegie Mellon University, has been at the forefront of stress research since the 1990s. Early on, he showed that chronic stress lasting more than a month but less than six months doubled a person’s risk of catching a cold. His more recent research has tried to figure out why, and results seem to point to inflammation. It appears that stress hampers the body’s ability to fight inflammation, by making immune cells less sensitive to the hormone that “turns off” inflammation.
Need a break from relaxing? Visit the Gateway Theatre of Shopping More than a shopping centre, the Gateway is a giant theatre that is dedicated to entertainment. This giant shopping center takes retail therapy to a whole new dimension. Whatever you are shopping for, you are sure to find it at the Gateway Theatre of Shopping.
Dine at the Grill Room Great service, excellent food and a fabulous live band provide the perfect ambience for a special dining experience. Enjoy the freshly caught seafood and seasonal menu at this highly rated fine dining restaurant. Be sure to leave plenty of room for their delicious specialty desserts.
Drink at the Lighthouse Bar
Spa menu sneak peak Turkish hammam | 50 min Price: 1075 Rand • 60 US Dollars A deep cleansing ritual using black olive soap and a Turkish mitt to exfoliate the dead cells.
Enjoy the best view of the ocean and lighthouse at the Lighthouse Bar located in The Oyster Box resort. Take a seat on their outdoor patio to enjoy the beautiful sunset while sipping on an expertly crafted cocktail. After the sun goes down, enjoy the classy decor and chill atmosphere.
The bellabaci massage | 90 min Price: 600 Rand• 35 US Dollars A treatment based on ancient cupping therapy that reduces cellulite and safely releases toxins.
Rungu massage | 60 min Price: 1120 Rand • 65 US Dollars A full body massage administered with the help of a Rungu, a wooden throwing club that carries special significance in East African tribal cultures. This massage will deeply relax the muscles plus soothe soreness, stress and lower back pain.
Africa
23