Warm hospitality goes along way as far as I’m concerned and that’s exactly what you will get at Melo Spa, located on the 5^th floor within Hyatt Regency in Sha Tin, Hong Kong. Smiling, friendly staff and luxurious surroundings await you at the first international branded spa in the New Territories.

That’s right readers, Melo Spa is just past Sha Tin near to the University MTR station, so it’s excellent for those living in Kowloon wanting to visit a world class spa. It’s a little hop, skip and a jump for those traveling from Hong Kong Island, but not hard to find and the easiest way to explain how to get there is take the train most of us affectionately known as the train to Shenzhen and get off at University. I quite enjoyed venturing out and once the treatment started I actually felt like I had escaped the rat-race as the journey helps create that distance to relax and enjoy.

Melo Spa has New Year Refreshers and Valentine’s Retreats all ready to go and I enjoyed a sneak preview to the Melo Sweet Dream Ritual. I couldn’t have thought of a better way to spend 2.5 hours on a Tuesday evening and after being escorted to my treatment room and slipping on my cashmere robe I knew I was in for a lovely experience.

The room itself was very spacious, but not too big where it feels intimidating and cold. The rooms are designed to be all-inclusive featuring large whirlpool bath tubs, oversized rain shower cubicles, lounge area, changing area, grooming station and separate lavatory.

My treatment started with a hydrotherapy bath in the enormous tub that was big enough to really sink into and soak away the worries of the day. It was temperature controlled and a great way to unwind and kick-off the treatment. The room had a view of a little courtyard and the courtyard overlooked the hotel’s swimming pool so as I bubbled and gurgled away I enjoyed staring out the windows onto the world.

Next was my honey sugar scrub made with brown sugar, salt and cinnamon. After the scrub came my deluxe hydration milk body envelopment and as I was wrapped up like a bunch of flowers with my head poking out the top I enjoyed a gentle head massage and admit I did doze off to lah-lah land for a few minutes. I felt cozy and comfortable on the massage bed that was heated to the perfect temperature on this cooler than usual evening and after soaking up the goodness of lavender and ylang ylang it was time for a hot shower.

My skin felt nourished and really silky smooth. Then it was back onto the bed for my aroma bliss massage. As my therapist Tina rubbed and stroked I let out a big yawn and disappeared into a day dream of bliss as she worked away the tension knots in my shoulders and lower back. At the end of my treatment when I heard the words ‘thank you Miss Rewell your treatment is finished’, I could have easily been convinced to stay and indulge for a little longer.

Before I disappeared into the night I was invited to munch on some fresh fruit and sip on some warm tea before being presented with my gorgeous spa gift that is a part of the package. What a wonderful gift this treatment would make at such a wonderful spa.

I sleepily left the Melo Spa and after catching the MTR four stops the wrong way I think it was safe to stay I was in a state of total relaxation.

Be sure to check out this package until the end of February 2012. At HK$1,830 per person it’s a lovely treat. With plenty of delicious treatments and packages you are spoiled for choice at Melo Spa.

Melo Spa
5/F, Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, 18 Chak Cheung Street, Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong
Telephone: +852 3723 7684
Email: melospa@hyatt.com
Website: www.hongkong.shatin.hyatt.com/hyatt/pure/spas/

I don’t want another man to touch me ever again. Ive just woken from the Spell of the new special Festive spa package at the newly appointed 5 star-Forbes status super spa at the Hong Kong Four Seasons Hotel, and Im somewhere between cloud nine and heaven. Male masseuse extrordinaire Jorvic was my therapist, and even though as a lady I’m usually uncomfortable with having a man touch me (other than my husband), his professional manner, discretion and phenomenal technique means that I’m hard pushed to want another man, or woman for that matter to treat me ever again.

A Festive Spell is the ultimate in gratuitous luxury, but we deserve it dont we girls, after the tough year we’ve had?  The treatment commences with a half hour long soak in a red-wine infused jacuzzi tub in your own spa suite overlooking Hong Kong harbour topped off with a glass of fine Champagne.  Home made alcoholic (hic) chocolate marshmallows are offered whilst you soak, bubble and quaff watching the harbour world go by.  For me it was one of those special “expat in Hong Kong” moments where I had a smile on my face feeling a very lucky girl indeed.

Jorvic entered, ( I sank under the bubbles just incase) and very politely introduced himself, and said he would excuse himself while I got out of the bath and positioned myself under the cover (more like a duvet) of the massage bed.  At this point I was unsure about a man treating me, hence me being so far under the bubbles he probably thought I had escaped, but once he spoke to me I immediately felt at ease, and relaxed into the treatment.

For the next two and a half hours Jorvic scrubbed me all over, with a ginger, cinnamon and sugar chocolate and chilli body scrub, smothered me in a chocolate body wrap, and then ended up with without doubt the best massage I have ever had.  Even the scrub, felt like a deep tissue massage, with the tingle of the chilli and the smell of the cinamon and ginger, it quickly sent me into a snoring (little pretty lady snores, I promise) oblivion.  Whilst I was snoring,  the chocolate body mask was applied, and soon after a steam in the suites personal shower steam room followed.  Obviously Jorvic excused himself for this.  As decadent (and yummy) as the ingredients sound, they have all been personally chosen and blended by resident spa director and guru Shoshanna Weinberg, to aid in detox anti-aging, and to smooth, tone and brighten the skin.  The chocolate itself has amazing properties which allows the pores to open and let all the toxins release. All I know is that I was literally floating after, and Im sure it was nothing to do with the glass of Champagne or the alcohol infused Marshmallows.

The massage followed, and this is where it got really interesting for me.  Personally I suffer from scoliosis, which is a curvature of the spine that I was born with.  I usually tell therapists what it is in case they feel a bit scared to massage a curved spine, as some people are worried they will hurt me, but Jorvic immediately knew and noticed my condition without me having to say anything.  He even used the medical term for it, which really surprised me.  The massage he proceeded to give me was the most intuitive and tailor made massage ive ever had, as he stretched various muscles, and massaged various tendons in my spine to release some of the tension caused by my condition.  In a word I was blown away.  I tend to feel sore after massages, due to my condition, but for the first time in years I felt my spine release, and I’m utterly grateful to Jorvic.  Speaking to him after, I learned that previously he was a physiotherapist at an orthopaedic hospital in the Philippines, which explained his knowledge of my condition and his ability to treat it.  Now working at the Four Seasons Hong Kong he has learned to be an expert therapist at the same time as having a deep knowledge of orthopaedics, my only negative point is that I cant see him every day!

This phenonemal treatment is only available until the 31st December, and I cannot recommend it enough, luckily Jorvic is there every day, but he might be busy massaging me!

What is it?
A Festive Spell – available December 1-31, 2011 – HKD 3300.00

Where is it?
Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong Spa
8 Finance Street,
Central,
Hong Kong
Tel. (852) 3196-8900
http://www.fourseasons.com/hongkong/spa/

And for the rest of the family…

Groom Him Hamper – HKD 6790.00
Inspired by the newest men’s range to arrive in Hong Kong, this hamper comes complete with Gentlemen’s Tonic shaving creams and oils, a deluxe razor kit, luxurious Kashwere robe, and a HKD 1200.00 Spa gift certificate.

Little Love Hamper – HKD 2790.00
Looking after the little one, this hamper includes Kimberley Parry baby powder, butter and oil, as well as Marilogan’s cute Jinbei robe and blanket.

Indulge Her Hamper – HKD 6790.00
A selection of lotions and polishes by lavish home pampering brands, Cochine from beautiful Vietnam and Lollia, signature Four Seasons oil blends, a Kashwere robe and a HKD 2500.00 Spa gift certificate..

Well…spa, yogis and detox adepts, what can we say, BBHK  has found yet another hidden gem on Thailand’s Koh Samui island. You may have heard of the “Absolute Sanctuary” spa resort, and if you have yet to take a detour to this boutique retreat designed with a unique and refreshing Moroccan inspired style, it’s time to jump on a plane and go!

Curious to find out more about this Moorish design resort nestled on the east coast of Koh Samui island, EcoBuzz Editor Mathilde Lucas was lucky enough to experience the island’s premier detox & yoga centre.

The resort is located within minutes by car to the airport so it’s very convenient if you are traveling from overseas as the last thing you want to do after flying hours on a plane is to spend one extra hour in a taxi on your arrival.

Absolute Sanctuary is cleverly and originally designed around the Moroccan theme with all rooms located symmetrically around a centralized infinity pool overlooking a grandiose dome building which serves as the reception hall. The layout plan of the resort is simple to understand and if you get lost, there is always the friendly staff to show or guide you around.

Moroccan Flair

It was a clever move to design a resort with Moroccan style architecture even if you are located in Asia. The design approach truly makes the resort special and stand out from the rest seeing as though the majority of the other resorts on the island are either contemporary or Thai style design. The 38 rooms are tastefully decorated with finishes and paints tinted in warm vibrant colors like terracottas, azure turquoises or deep sea greens. Original mosaics and ceramic tile patterns cover some wall partitions, particularly in the spacious bathrooms where you can choose to unwind in a bath tub or reinvigorate yourself under a vibrant shower. All rooms are fully equipped; they include majestic beds, air conditioning, television and an outdoor balcony area if you wish to sit in front of a meditative lush green view.

Spaaaabulous

“Give yourself the gift of Well-being” is the motto written on the Spa Menu. The treatments proposed are true bliss and range from anti-stress or marine mud massages, facials, healing therapies (which include Reiki treatments). You can also book and organize a Spa party with your friends for groups of 5-12 people which can comprise of whatever you want, from yoga sessions to treatments and wellness programs. So instead of organizing the next hen party in the streets of Lan Kwai Fong ‘toxifying’ your bodies, getaway with your girlfriends for a long pampering weekend and test out their  3, 5 or 7 day spa holiday programs.

Detox Philosophy

On your first day, you will have a consultation with the Wellness consultant and Detox Centre Manager, Sara Canney. She is highly experienced and will guide you step by step through the detox process and also answer any other questions you might have about your lifestyle, health and well-being.

My consultation was with visiting locum, Dr Alister Bredee.  As the comprehensive Absolute Detox Guide clearly explains and as Bredee reiterates, there are many reasons why we should all Detox (at least once a year or every couple of months if possible) and here’s a brief summary of a few reasons why:

We expose ourselves to many toxic substances like heavy metals and synthetic chemicals on a daily basis without knowing it (through food, water, personal care, polluted air and beauty products). Detoxing and proper nutrition really aids to eliminate and ‘execrate’ these health threatening noxious elements. It also helps us to get rid of our body wastes and reinvigorate the performance of your vital organs (liver, colon, kidneys, gallbladder, lungs, skin, lymph, and blood).

Prime benefits of Detox:

•Improves our Immune Function and purifies our blood

•Scavenges free radicals and eliminates toxins

•Strengthens the body’s fight against cancer cells and generates healthy cells

•Cleanses mucous, congestion, fermentation, inflammation in our digestive tract

•Reforms our daily lifestyle addictions for sugar, salt, high glycemic, carbohydrates, alcohol, junk foods, nicotine, etc.

So hopefully, these should be enough reasons to convince you to Detox (it’s certainly persuasive enough for me as I now understand the process and see the results of this cleanse which also includes healthier skin, more energy, and weight loss). I truly have never met anyone until now who has tried a detox and gave negative feedback on the outcomes… and actually, once you test it out, chances are you’ll feel so fantastic that you’ll adopt a new lifestyle philosophy and do it again and again regularly.

Ooommmmm!

One key ingredient that makes this resort different from the other ones offering similar wellness programs is definitively its focus on Yoga. The resort is a beacon of yogic bliss and the proposed Yoga classes reflect this (you can choose from a variety of styles: from detox Yoga to gentle flow, hot flow, hatha, restorative, detox, yin, ying yan Yoga to pranayama, Pilates and meditation) and range from beginners to advanced. So you can really experience a world class quality Yoga practice in a sublime setting. You can choose daily classes, packages (from 5 to 10 days) or even attend proper workshops and teacher trainings. Whilst I was there, a big group were just finishing an intensive 4 week teacher training course (that’s 12 hours of yoga/daily, multiplied by 30 days….basically equals to a lot of hours on a yoga mat!) and everyone looked ecstatic with the course and loved the resort. The 2 large yoga studios are top notch and the teachers all very professional. Namaste……

The Love Kitchen

That’s literally the name of their restaurant and you certainly feel the love in the food prepared. Obviously the menu offers primarily health conscious vegetarian cuisine and fresh ingredients. The selection of dishes is kept simple in order to underline the natural taste of the ingredients. Some signature plates you’ll find on the carte include vegetarian Cheong Mon Burritos or nori hand rolls and Dara’s apple strudel (for the sweeter tooth…)! And for those on the detox program, aside from your daily shakes and juices, you can drink unlimited amounts of veggie broth soups anytime of the day from 6.30am to 10pm.

There is a lounge area with magazines and internet access in the restaurant which makes the space quite social and inviting. The week I was there, I met other guests who flew all the way from New York, Sydney, Mozambique or Qatar to spend a few days at Absolute Sanctuary. That should prove to you that the resort lives up to its reputation.

As for myself, all I can say is that I’ll be back!

For more details:

Address: 88 Moo.5, Cheongmon, Tambol Bophut, Amphur Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320 Thailand

Tel: +66 7760 1190 – 9

info@absolutesanctuary.com

www.absolutesanctuary.com

Bangkok is often regarded as the best city in the world for a touch of pampering, what can not be denied is the Thai hospitality and numerous options for massages. Every street corner, mall and hotel is home to a Thai massage parlour, or spa. BBHK Editor Chantel Shafie and Georg Lauth visited the land of smiles to compile the BBHK spa guide to Bangkok from both a male and a female perspective. Top on our hot list of urban spas was the Thann Sanctuary in Gaysorn Plaza.

HIM -Georg Lauth, Luxury Editor BBHK

After a long flight and struggling to get through Bangkok’s rush hour to keep my appointment at the ‘Thann’ Spa at Gaysorn Plaza , I could have not been happier arriving just in time for my 90 min massage.  And little did I know what was waiting for me.

Entering this boutique Spa on the top floor at one of the luxurious shopping malls in town I could have been not less disappointed.  The place is decorated in the most stylish Thai-Modern decor I had seen in a while: a dark and moody interior with each room of its own signature ‘living wall’ of planting arrangement featuring the ingredient of ‘Thann’s products.

Seduced by its beauty I could relax and having the introduction by the charming staff at the spa.  I was lead to my treatment room for the ‘Thann sanctuary signature massage’.   My wonderful therapist guided me thoroughly over the functions of the room and the adjoining bathroom.  After taking a quick shower, I could now relax on the bed and let her commence.

A slow start to ease every muscle on the feet and legs, the therapist then made her way up to what has always been my problematic area: my back and shoulders. Not only did she use all her strength to go through every muscle but to my surprise I did not feel any pain throughout the whole process. The therapist knew exactly how to release the tension of each muscle part and was working at some point what felt like hours. I must have drifted away which I still don’t understand keeping in mind the strength and pressure she put in my back.

I awoke and still did not know what ‘magic’ my therapist had done to me until I got dressed. I ‘floated’ to the reception to get some tea and fruit. Every minute I felt better and better. I had experienced the perfect massage and could now dance away all night in what else Bangkok had to offer…

HER – Chantel Shafie – Editor BBHK

Being a Spa and Beauty Writer I am lucky enough to visit many countries and locations for a massage and pamper sesh. Even after having lived in Asia now for five years, I am still not used to the idea of stepping into a shopping mall, and really relaxing into a spa. In my mind spas should be tucked away on some deserted island, or failing that, in the grounds of a hotel. Obviously visiting a metropolis like Bangkok, this is not possible. With so many Thai massage shops all around town, which offer really good massages at extremely cheap prices, I thought it would be tough to appreciate a spa in a shopping centre that is essentially 10x the cost of a street front shop.

Stepping into Gaysorn plaza is a nice experience in itself.  It is a premium shopping centre in the middle of town, which is small enough to still feel exclusive and inviting. The Thann Sanctuary, situated on the 3rd floor occupies 160 square meters, comprising of 6 treatment rooms and a separate steam room.  In a style that would be equally pleasing to both men and women, Each room is designed to represent one of Thann’s signature product lines, Sea Foam, Aromatic Wood, Oriental Essence, Mediterranean Floral, Rice and Shiso.  Every wall of the spa is lined with bamboo, creating a hidden sanctuary far away from the shopping mall.

I chose the signature treatment which comprised of a 90 minute firm deep tissue massage, using palms, thumbs and forearms, and a specially concocted aromatherapy blend for my needs.  I personally have extremely tensed shoulders, probably from writing all the time.  I pointed out my own points for concern, and I have to say out of the hundreds and hundreds of massages I have had in my life, this was by far the best.

The therapist applied just the perfect amount of pressure and completely intuitively rubbed my aches and pains away.  At first I thought she was applying far too much pressure, and that I would be in pain for the entire week. However her hands knew best, and  I felt a massive release of pressure and floated out for the sanctuary, as for the first time in literally years, I had no tension in my neck and shoulders.

’Thann’ is available throughout Asia and is now expanding into Europe and Russia.  A success which is truly deserved and I just hope a new Spa is opening right on my doorstep.

Tip: before you leave Gaysorn Plaza try out the ‘Thann’s’  tearoom on the 2nd floor: very cute decor with flower shop and all of ‘Thann’s’ delicious products!

What?
THANN Sanctuary Signature Massage

How much?
2,200 Baht (HKD 568)

Where?
THANN Sanctuary
Gaysorn Shopping Mall
3rd floor
Ploenchit Road
Lumpini
Bangkok 10330
Tel: +66 2 656 1424

www.thann.info

Can you believe it? Sense Of Touch recently reached the grand old age of eight years old!  There are no surprises as to why Sense Of Touch touch has been awarded practically every award going for their five spa locations, and to commemorate this very special occasion, Sense of Touch has teamed up with the fabulous Aromatherapy Associates to create a massage that is right up my street – The After Eight Anniversary Treatment.

For those of you that may not know of my obsession with After Eight mints, or in fact not know what they are, these inexpensive chocolates are famous in the UK for an after dinner treat especially at dinner parties at home.  Throughout the 70′s and 80′s no housewife could hold up their bouffant heads without presenting After Eights to their guests with their cafetiere.  As a little girl I would often steal one (or two or three) of these delightful chocolate mint wafers and sit under the coffee table (I’m sure that would still be fun…) and nibble away.  Today they remind me of my childhood, and home, not to mention that they are seriously yummy!

So when I heard of this treatment from SOT, my heart strings panged and I totted along to the Lan Kwai Fong spa to be pampered, After Eight style.  Aromatherapy Associates have cleverly concocted a blend of peppermint and lavender, which at first glance I thought would be awful, but in fact sit gloriously side by side, and smells strangely like After Eights.  The treatment begins with a full body scrub using the Support range, followed by a fabulous full body and face massage using the special blend.  The journey is completed with a cup of peppermint tea and two scrumptious After Eight Mints, which I had to stop myself from climbing under the massage table to devour.  The whole treatment was divine, and definitely one to recommend, if only for the chocolates!

Where?

All Sense of Touch locations

How Much?

$888HKD for 80 minutes

A usual weekend away in Macau may find you spinning the wheel, boogieing the night away in one of the many hotel clubs, and crawling back to your room, only to be greeted by the heaving casino floor on your way to breakfast in the morning.

The new but much more sophisticated kid to hit the Macau block is the new Mandarin Oriental which  takes a new approach to staying in style in our sister destination of choice.  Gone are the casinos, gaudy entrances, grandiose gold statues and ostentatious chandeliers, all replaced by old fashioned glamour.  The hotel has been sympathetically designed to combine both Chinese eastern and Portuguese western influences, which sit elegantly side by side like true Macanese yin and yang.

Attached to the MGM on the Macau Peninsula by the new One Central high end designer mall, casino goers can find themselves rolling their dice in a few minutes, but gambling haters can feel detached enough from the mayhem, that they can forget that any gaming exists at all. Most of the rooms have incredible panoramic views of Taipa Island, west Nam Van Lake with the hills of China beyond.   A high view room allows you to watch the strangely memorising bridge and road complex from above, which resonates with the childhood excitement of watching the biggest Scaletrix set known to man.  So unlike our own harbour view in Hong Kong, but the vastness and the plethora of things to look at, makes it simply stunning.

Good Night Sweetheart
I stayed in the Mandarin Premier View Room, which at approx $5000HKD per night is more expensive than a lot of the other hotels in Macau.  But at that price, what are you getting for your money?    At 700 square feet, the room was larger than most Hong Kong apartments, and designed in sophisticated hues of taupe and cream.  Every electronic mod-con you can think of and more were integrated into the room. The curtains self glide at a small tap, the Nespresso coffee machine makes you a fabulous cup of Jo, and the all encompassing entertainment system allows you to dock all manner of your electronic items into the brain of the room to be played or heard from all areas.  Needless to say I got a tad confused, but the more gadget savvy will be playing and plugging into the various ports with glee.  For those without laptops, the TV doubles up as a computer.  The absolutely enormous bed (I’ve no idea of its regal stature, but it puts a king, or super duper king to shame) was covered in 480 thread count satin linen, and I am ashamed to say that I did consider trying to stuff the pillow up my dress when I left, as I wasn’t sure if I could survive without it. (Don’t worry, it was safely left behind for the next lucky sleeper to drool on).  The bathroom, which took up almost a third of the room contained the obligatory his and hers sinks, a separate lavatory and really intense power shower, which were all eclipsed by the amazing double ended spa bathtub set against the windows for a spectacular soak with an unparalleled view.  One of my favourite brands, Aromatherapy Associates adorn the bathroom with their premier products, so a trip the the loo may take a while.  There was also a unnecessary large walk in wardrobe.  I know I am a girl, but unless I moved in for a year, I would not be able to fill all the rails and drawers, again I’m not proud to admit that I did sit in there for a little too long dreaming of a wardrobe like this at home, and how to fill it.  And if you think there is nothing else that can think of to make this room perfect and less like the usual Macanese experience, add a yoga mat to encourage your inner zen.  

And now for my first test, the room service call.  its amazing how many five star hotels can mess this one up.  Especially late when night shift takes over, it is not uncommon to find a rather confused nighttime emergency electrician on the end of the phone trying to take your urgent Club Sandwich order.  So at 4am I ordered an obligatory Spag Bol and Won Ton Noodle Soup.  The order was taken quickly and perfectly, and arrived no less that 15 minutes later.  And I’m happy to report it was delicious, hot and served with a genuine smile, even at that ungodly hour.

The way to a mans heart…
Dining in the Mandarin Oriental Macau is rather limited, with only one restaurant – the Vida Rica where guests also enjoy breakfast, and its adjoining bar.  But downstairs cakes and pastries from the famous Mandarin Cake Shop are served in the Lobby Lounge along side high tea and snacks.  

With views over looking the South China Sea, and Nam Van Lake, the Vida Rida Restaurant serves the very finest food from a variety of nations such as Japanese, Chinese and modern Western.  The helm is held by Executive Chef Dirk Haltenhof who I have had the pleasure of being cooked by in the Mandarin Oriental in Kuala Lumpar in the past.  The large menu offers a choice for every palate, and is served in an intimate and romantic setting, with fabulous hand made chandeliers which light up every individual table.  I chose the Crab Tian, followed by the Lobster Thermador, which were both exquisitely prepared and delicious, but needed a little bit more salt for my liking.   The extensive wine list offers fine and affordable wines for lovers and quaffers alike, as well as excellent choices for wine pairing.    

Joined by a small corridor is the Vida Rica Bar, an intimate and chic drinking establishment dressed in dark chocolate and rich red hues, successfully bringing together both the Portuguese and Asian elements that make up the life of Macau.  Again it is flanked by floor to ceiling window looking over to Taipa and Nam Van Lake, which was the perfect setting for the International Firework competition which I was lucky enough to catch while I was there.  The incredibly impressive Japanese firework entry was googled whilst drinking very reasonably priced and extremely delicious Asian inspired tapas and equally reasonably priced pink Moet Rose Champagne.  The Vida Rica Bar is a welcome addition to the Macau bar scene, with its extensive and adventurous cocktail menu along side its elegant clientele, the bar is cleverly setting a different pace from the usual crowd pleasing stage performances in the middle of the casino gaming floors.  A definite must for the more discerning guest.

Work it
A state-of-the-art Technogym fitness center sits alongside the spa, which contains every piece of equipment you would need for your work out, and a lot that I had no clue what they would do to my unfit little body.  Interestingly, longer staying guests are provided with their own USB stick which a routine is recorded on.  The stick is then plugged into each machine and your progress is logged.  This stick can then be taken to any Mandarin Oriental hotel in the world, and your personal routine and progress can be immediately continued.  Genius!  There is nothing worse than popping down to a hotel gym, and flapping around the room, as none of the machines look familiar,  this perfectly solves the problem.     

My only gripe would be the size of the swimming pool.  Even though the outdoor area was beautiful, and the pool shared the stunning view of Taipa and Nam Van Lake, it did appear rather small to me.  But as the pool seemed to be eclipsed by the sun by the hotel itself while I was there, then I doubt many people would want to sit and relax in the pool.  Interestingly however, out of all the hotels that I have visited in Macau, some with very impressive pool facilities, there seldom are any guests using them.  

A massage a day keeps the doctor away
The Mandarin Oriental group is world renowned for their award winning spas, and the new Macau addition will surely impress. Dark woods, with tones and red and blue adorn the Spa and you are greeted by soothing burning scents, ginger tea and very serene and smiley therapists.  In a town that screams mayhem and havoc, The Spa instantly transports you to a relaxed and soothing environment. The treatments have all been designed in keeping with Mandarin Oriental standards and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), yet they have been inspired by the local Portuguese and Chinese elements, resulting in a unique and exciting array of choices for pampering.  

The Spa consists of eight treatment rooms including four couples rooms, all designed with the parallel cultures in mind, again combining both important sides of Macanese life perfectly, with the VIP suite containing Macau’s first heated hamam style scrub table.  The changing rooms also house the spa heat experiences, vitality pool, amethyst crystal steam room, sauna and rainforest experience shower.  For those whose hands and feet are in need of help, a separate nail spa sits behind the reception for perfecting those talons.  Aromatherapy Associates are the products of choice for most treatments, and can also been purchased in their well stocked and inviting boutique, which also sells their own exclusive Mandarin Oriental Signature Products that have been developed by Aromatherapy Associates, specifically combining special blends and scents for the Mandarin Orientals needs.

I decided to try one of their signature treatments, the two hour Macanese Dragon Experience.  The ridiculously adorable and smiley Balinese therapist Nyoman, lead me to my spa suite, which again was flanked by floor to ceiling windows overlooking this time the Macau Tower and China beyond.  The treatment began with a cleansing foot scrub whilst sipping ginger tea.  I was then scrubbed from head to toe using a delightful smelling Aromatherapy Associates concoction.  I was then left to wash off and steam in the suites private steam shower.  As if I wasn’t clean enough, I was then plopped in the very large (it could easily fit four people) jacuzzi whirlpool, where I was left for twenty minutes for my troubles and stress to bubble away.  This was then followed by a Chinese lymphatic full body massage using heated Chinese meditation “Bao Ding” balls.  These are perfectly round semi precious stone balls about two inches in diameter which are heated and rolled deeply into the muscle tissue, not unlike the hot stone massage that is quite common.  The feeling of the hot balls rolling on fatigued muscles was sensational, and unlike any other massage I had experienced before.    Finally I was smothered in a rich Aromatherapy Associates body cream, which was prescribed for my needs. From start to finish it was it was utter bliss, and I will not be at all surprised if The Spa and the hotel at Mandarin Oriental Macau will soon be winning awards like its big sisters overseas.

Special Spa Package Offer -  Weekday Experience package
The package includes a series of five signature treatment gift vouchers at a price of MOP6,000 and is available until December 2010.

The five treatments include two customised aromatherapy facials, two Oriental Essence body massages, a signature Macanese Dragon Experience, afternoon tea set at the Lobby Lounge for  two and a voucher for MOP500 that can be used towards the purchase of spa products, such as Mandarin Oriental’s signature product line, Aromatherapy Associates products, as well as Somme Institute facial care products.

Mandarin Oriental Macau
Avenida Dr Sun Yat Sen, NAPE, Macau
Telephone: +853 8805 8888
Email: momac-reservations@mohg.com
Website: www.mandarinoriental.com/macau/

Set back in a discrete leafy lane, a few hops from Star Street lies Wanchai’s best hidden secret.  A new boutique beauty spa and nail salon set over two floors, offering fabulous OPI centric treatments and spa treatments including massages, facials and waxing Iyara Wanchai, sister to the Central escalator branch, is the new kid on the ever-growing Wanchai block, set in a surprisingly serene and relaxing location, up a cobbled stepped street, overlooking trees and greenery.

Decorated in aqua and chocolate hues, the welcoming parlour is a complete pleasure and surprise to walk into, and a definite must for lunchtime escapes  for Wanchai workers.  There cant be a better place in the area to spend a lunch break.  Bring in  a sarnie, have a pedi and feel a million miles away from the hussle and bussle of the city below.

Upstairs, the treatment rooms offer all manner of spa services such as really reasonably priced massages, slimming treatments, and waxing, and if they are anything like their mani-pedis, they should be fantastic.

I treated myself to their signature ‘spa manicure and pedicure’ which comprises of a really good exfoliating scrub and foot massage, and finished off with a splash of my favourite OPI ‘a good Man-dar-in darling is hard to find’ nail polish..  The expert staff snipped, clipped and filed my talons to perfection, buffed my tired skin with their fantastic ‘milk and honey’ Cuccio scrub, and massaged all the tension I had left away with a great foot massage.

By the time it was over, my tootsies looked and felt divine enough to step onto Cloud 9.

Cost?
Spa Pedicure $330 Spa Manicure $190

Where?
Iyara Wanchai
(Inbetween Star Street and Hopewell Centre off Queen Road East)
Wanchai
Hong Kong

Telephone: +852 2545 8637 / +852 2545 8663
Email: iyara1@biznetvigator.com
Web: www.iyarabeauty.com

With Mothers Day coming up on Sunday 9th May, what better way to be treated like the queen that you are,  than being sent for a royal pamper day at the Spa.

BBHK has teamed up with The Victorian Spa in Disney Hong Kong to offer you a chance to win the ultimate Mothers Day gift:

A FREE Royal Family Mix & Match Spa Journey for 1 adult and 1 child (aged 6-15) valued at $1400, with two treatments each from the following:

• Bliss Out Back Massage
• Relaxing Foot Massage
• Neck & Shoulder De-stress
• Refresher Facial
• Nourishing Milk Bath

This competition is now closed.  Congratulations to Yummy Mummy Ruth Benny who will be ejoying this prize with her little daughter.

We know how hard it is sometimes to get someone to look after your little ones while you try to go for that much needed manicure or massage. The Victorian Spa in Disney have the answer, they are completely child friendly, whilst still managing to maintain an adult serene environment.  They also offer many packages that cater to both you and your child, so you can share a special day of indulgence together.

I went to The Victorian Spa recently with a visiting girlfriend, for an afternoon of decadence.  The magic begins as soon as the Disney MTR train pulled into Sunny Bay.  I couldn’t tell if I was more excited that the multitude of children by the Mickey Mouse shaped windows, and the Pinocchio star wishing music blasting through the carriage.  The walk up to the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel is a fairytale in itself. High trimmed hedges pass you by the gates to the theme park, princess fountains and onto the Victorian themed hotel, whilst playing all the musical Disney classics we grew up with.

The hotel is a absolute gem. Only 35minutes from Central, you find yourself in a elegant 5-star hotel, set in lush tropical grounds over looking the sea in Lantau. I couldn’t help ask myself why I had never been there before? The spa is situated downstairs, adjacent to the magnificent indoor and outdoor pools, which you have full use of when you visit the spa. It is worth it just for that in itself. After a lovely lunch in the sunshine by the pool, we adjourned to the spa to start our afternoon of pampering.

The Victorian styling is quite surprising.  I expected to see a  Minnie Mouse receptionist, and Disney iconry everywhere, but it was classic and modern at the same time, without a pair of ears in sight.  Being British myself, I felt quite at home in the Spa, reminding me of visiting stately homes in the UK, albeit with a Disney twist.  The only hint of Disney is the waiting room, which plays non-stop cartoons on a discrete plasma TV, which again is perfect for children.

The modern Victorian theme continues into the different scented treatment rooms.  Our treatment took place in the Rose room, in which we had a Dream Journey Massage and Refresher Facial.  As with a Mother and Child package we had a double room, which I really think adds to the joint enjoyment of the treatment, plus in the case of having your child with you, you know they are safe and happy.  Both massage and facial were fabulous.  The therapists were absolutely lovely, and intuitive.  My friend and I had the same treatment, but the therapists tailored them slightly to our individual needs.  After being lulled into a state of complete serenity and relaxation, the treatment sadly ended.  But the journey continued into the beautiful large jacuzzi, and steam room in the ladies area.  After a further hour of lolling, steaming and chatting we decided we had to get back to the reality of Hong Kong.  The whole afternoon was truly sublime, and I was left dreaming of being a Disney Princess all over again.

In addition to the super competition, The Victorian Spa is offering an exclusive discount to BBHK readers on the following Disney packages:-

Royal Family Mix & Match Spa Journey (for 2: child aged from 6-15)
2 treatments each from the following: bliss Out Back Massage, Relaxing Foot Massage, Neck & Shoulder De-stress, Refresher Facial, Nourishing Milk Bath
Special price: HK$1,200
Original price: HK$1,400

Other Mother & Daughter packages available at Victorian Spa (child aged 6-15yrs):
* Queen & Princess Magic Manicure or Pedicure 
   30mins   $480
* Queen & Princess Foot Message 
   25 mins    $720

Other great Mother’s Day offer at Victorian Spa
* Spa & Tea (for 2: adults or children)
Includes a Dream Journey Massage or Elemis Skin Specific Facial
$1,780 (Mon – Fri, High Tea)
$1,980 (Sat, Sun & PH, Tea Buffet)

The Victorian Spa

Level 1, Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort
Lantau Island

Tel: +852 3510 6388
Email: victorianspa@schinac.com
www.victorianspa.com.hk

Daily 9am-10pm

Trust me chaps, join my post-7s wolfpack

“Once you step into Repulse Bay, your mind is settled,” proclaims Antonia Lai, Spa Manager at The Retreat. The newly-converted dairy farm and haven from the city.

I sure hope so, I think to myself having spent much of the last three days surrounded by Lady Gagas, fat boys in morphsuits and Alan wolfpacks,

So how would Retreat for a King, The Retreat signature men’s treatment fare in helping rid my sins, and cure me of the demons pulsing through my head and bloodstream? There’s a lot of wrongs to right.

Carol, my therapist gets straight to work. A swift but very pleasant foot wash kicked things off as I’m handed a clipboard with some very basic but embarrassingly telling questions. How is your skin? How do you feel? Do you have a headache? How much do you drink? (Uh oh, on current form I run the risk of falling into the ‘degenerate alcoholic’ category).

I’m as honest as I feel I need to be. “Just look at me,” I say to myself as I take my position on the table for my treatment. At two and a half hours long, this would be the longest I’ve been horizontal for several days. And oh my God, am I ready for it.

A further examination of my skin helps Carol decide what product she’s going to use to put me right. Today is an Elemis day across the board. I’m a huge fan of Elemis for the attention it pays to its wide and diverse men’s range, and so, it seems, is The Retreat which uses Elemis across many of its treatment offerings. It’s oils, creams and heaven knows what else, combined with Carol’s experienced hands find their way to the spots that needed them most. The brochures promise the deep tissue treatment will both increase circulation and soothe muscles. As Carol softly tells me she’s done, I have no arguments – two ticks in two very much needed boxes!

Time for my Skin IQ facial. The Retreat for a King treatment’s second phase. Appropriately named, I’m comforted by a five minute close examination under the strongest light I’ve ever had thrust in my face. “A little dry here, a little oily there, this part’s very nice, a couple of lines here,” just a handful of Carol’s observations as she assesses which of Elemis’s delight’s she’s going to employ to relax and repair my weary face. “A mixed bag then,” I mutter as Carol smiles back at me. “Better than a bag of spanners” I think to myself!

This, my first ever experience of a facial was really rather pleasant. I must admit I have always had reservations. I’m not a great fan of rubbing things on my face unless I’m in the shower and they can come straight off. But the four-phased treatment (cleanse, tone, exfoliate and mask) certainly re-energized my face, which notwithstanding the onslaught of the weekend’s fun and frolics, suffers a polluted beating day in day out, courtesy of the streets of Central Hong Kong.

Gentlemen, I urge you to give this place a go. If you felt like a member of The Hangover cast as I did on Monday morning, Retreat for a King will sort you out. And here’s a thought: Retreat for a Queen – the fairer sex equivalent reviewed by BBHK just last month – is a perfect excuse to make up for whatever it is you’re still apologizing to the lady of your life for, some four days on! Gentlemen, this is a wolfpack worth joining.

Male grooming editor

Retreat For A King 135 mins • $1,860

The Retreat
1st floor, 33 Beach Road
Repulse Bay
Hong Kong
Tel:  +852 2803 1860
Fax: +852 2803 1862
info@the-retreat.com.hk
www.the-retreat.com.hk

Nestled deep in the heart of the cosmetics department at Lane Crawford lurks a hidden gem: a cluster of cocoon like pods specially designed to soothe, rejuvenate and invigorate. I went along to Pacific Place to experience pod living the Elemis way and familiarize myself with some of Elemis’s next generation retail beauty products.

As one of those people whose daily beauty routine is lucky if it includes moisturiser, the Elemis facial was something of a master-class in how one should really look after one’s face – if you want to avoid looking like a soggy beancurd sheet by the time you’re 50 that is.

As soon as I’d discarded my day-wear for a toweling robe and settled onto the comfy pod bed, we kicked off the treatment with a gentle cleanse. Rehydrating rose-petal cleanser was applied in an artfully soothing manner to help remove the build up of grot and grime from my un-loved skin. I particularly liked its delicate fragrance which, unlike many rose scented products, was not too overpowering.

After the cleanser came the application of toner and a gentle exfoliation. Sophia, the therapist, applied eye mask, face mask and lip mask (see below for details) before settling me, ready for a 15 minute hot stone massage. Ahhhhh – what bliss. I drifted near sleep as Sophia oiled my shoulders and set to work with her hot stones. I wasn’t expecting to feel so much more relaxed after only 15 minutes, but I was………zzz.

Sophia removed the mask, again using the rose-petal cleanser and applied pro-collagen marine cream, an anti-ageing treatment cream. It wasn’t too heavy, cloying or perfumed. As for its anti-ageing credentials, one session just isn’t enough to comment, but according to Elemis its anti-ageing ingredients include marine algae, gingko biloba, Chlorella, Prophyridium, Rose and Mimosa Absolutes. Quite a list!
After donning my day-wear, I walked away feeling a little bit taller (thank you the hot stones) and more energised. My face didn’t feel clogged up by the application of multiple products, but firmer, brighter and better tended than it has done in some time.

So with my critical hat on, what could have been better? Well the exfoliation could have been a little more abrasive but I suppose that’s partly a personal preference and on the plus side, I didn’t leave looking like my face had been on the receiving end of a sand storm.

End Result
The pod facials are a brilliant way of taking a little time out from the office or the shops (especially if you work or shop in Central) and treating yourself and your skin to some professional care. I liked the products and am tempted to treat myself to the rose-petal cleanser and apricot toner.
X factor

Hot stone massage. This was an unexpected treat and I encourage all you hot stone skeptics out there to give it a go.
Things you should know

A number of power booster facials are offered in the Pod, all at the HK$790 mark. Guys don’t need to feel left out either as there is a specially designed treatment to keep you looking and feeling and looking tip-top-tastic in the face department.

Helen Wrigglesworth

Costs
Facial:
Pod Power Booster facials: HK$790
Products:
Rehydrating Rose Petal Cleanser, 200ml: HK$399
Soothing Apricot Toner, 200ml: HK$399
Gentle Rose Exfoliator, 50ml: HK$365
Pro-collagen Quartz Mask, 50ml: HK$1150
Exotic Cream Moisturising Mask (applied to lips), 50ml: HK$550
Absolute Eye Mask, 30ml: HK$450
Pro-Collagen Marine Cream, 50ml: HK$1380

Where
Elemis Counter
Cosmetics Department
Lane Crawford at Pacific Place
Tel. +852 2118 3654

Elemis fans should also check out the Elemis day-spa
9/F, Century Square,  
1 D’Aguilar Street,  
Central, Hong Kong  
Tel: +852 2521 6660