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/

Travelling within China can sometimes be a bit of a mystery. You don’t know what your hotel will be like and if the services and facilities will be as one expects. There is an overwhelming amount of leading hotels to choose from and a number of locations where you can stay. The Grand Hyatt Shanghai rings true to its world-class brand and I was ‘wowed’ over-and-over during my stay at this prestigious property.

Grand Hyatt Shanghai is located in ‘little Lujiazui’, amongst the action of the stock exchange and financial institutions. You will find all the mod-cons you require and it would be fair to say it’s a business traveller preferred hotel. Grand Hyatt Shanghai can be found within the iconic Jin Mao Tower that stands an impressive 88-stories tall with the hotel itself starting from the 53^rd floor. It’s perfect for those in town on business or those spending a weekend in this bustling city with a loved one to impress.

Room with a view

I checked into my Club Deluxe River View room and as I drew the curtains I almost heard anthem music play in celebration of the sights before me. With floor to ceiling windows that wrapped this corner room I had a picture perfect view of the Shanghai waterfront and a bird’s eye view as far as the eye could see. While I couldn’t quite see the Great Wall of China, on a clear day it is pretty impressive.

At a spacious 50sq meters there was more than enough room to spread out and relax while taking in the city. The room includes a luxurious king size bed, sitting are with flatscreen TV, a desk for those in town for work and a large bathroom complete with shower, separate bath and double sinks. The wardrobe was one of my favourite things with a handy design that allows you to open it from the bathroom or on the opposite side in the living area. All the added-extras you would expect to find hit my check list: fluffy robes, amenity kit and a decent hairdryer.

Room service was a hit and although I only ordered a pizza, who doesn’t like it being wheeled in on fresh linen with fresh flowers? My prosciutto pizza came quickly, was fresh, hot, crisp and yummy yummy. Larger than expected, I saved the leftover for my midnight snack which I knew was coming after my long-haul flight.

Impress me

It can be sometimes hard to impress a seasoned traveller; however Grand Hyatt Shanghai does pretty well. The fitness centre can be found on the 57^th floor and boasts a stunning temperature-controlled skypool which stretches from window-to-window. While it was too cold for me to shed my layered clothes and enjoy what I am sure would be fine temperature-wise, I decided to admire it from a distance and then head to the Cloud 9 bar on the 87^th floor instead. With a 360 degree view from one of the highest points in Shanghai, how could I not enjoy a Martini at this impressive establishment? I ordered mine shaken not stirred and perched myself at a window seat and sipped away while taking in the sights.

Time to spa

It’s hard not to lose yourself in the tranquillity of the Club Oasis Spa. The spa itself is whisper quiet and a perfect place to indulge after a long day at the office. The spa is very spacious with separate men’s and women’s facilities: whirlpool bathtubs, hot and cold plunges, saunas, steam rooms and relaxation lounges. How could you not relax in a place like this?

I selected from the ‘Traveller’s Stress Reduction Choice’ menu and enjoyed a deep tissue massage and salt glow featuring lovely products from Wellness Concept in Taiwan. The treatment was 100 minutes and as I was led into my treatment room I was again impressed by the view through the floor-to-ceiling sliding picture windows. After my salt scrub and a piping hot shower I cuddled into my super comfy massage bed for a massage that really hit the spot. Long even strokes and some thumb-action on the super sore spots helped me mentally prepare for the long list of meetings I had the next day. The spa is open from 10am to 11pm daily which is great for those of us who enjoy a rub down before hopping into bed. Leaving the spa in my robe and slippers I was floating and ready for a long, deep sleep.

I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at Grand Hyatt Shanghai and my only gripe would be the temperature in the bedroom. Winter had hit before I checked in and management were yet to turn on the central heating so it was a little disappointing the room was on the chillier side instead of feeling cosy. I was able to ring in for a mobile electric heater, so I guess this potential problem sorted itself out fairly quickly. I will be back next time I am in Shanghai.

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..

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

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

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

Planning on hitting in hard this weekend? Well thanks to the BeautyBuzzHK team, your Monday morning needn’t be as painful as you think. Gentlemen, we’ve found the answer…

We’re reporting live and as it happens from ‘The Retreat’ in Repulse Bay on Monday morning as our mens editor soothes his Seven’s-weary body courtesy of the spa’s ‘Retreat for a King’ signature men’s treatment.

Read the review bleary eyed on Monday afternoon and email us your or your partner’s name and contact number to win@beautybuzzhk.com. We’re offering one “Retreat for a King” for FREE, (valued at $1860) and 10% off for ten runner’s up.

Come Monday, you’ll thank us. Till then, enjoy the Sevens!

The BeautyBuzz team

Terms and Conditions apply.

Hectic Hong Kong life leaves most of us feeling frazzled, tired, and stressed, surely there can’t be a better way to relax, unwind and spend a totally selfish day being pampered from tip-to-toe, and be treated like the queen that you are for a day?

The Retreat in Repulse Bay has the answer.  Their signature treatment ‘Queen for a Day’ promises to indulge you in chocolate decadence, complete with body treatment and facial followed by a simultaneous manicure and pedicure to complete your day fit for a queen.

The Venue
Somewhat hard to find, The Retreat is situated on Beach Road, which is a hard left turn off Repulse Bay Road.  The rather irritable belching taxi driver dropped me off by 7-11, which at first glance does not look like a likely venue for a A-grade spa, but as we all know looks can be deceiving.  Upon entering The Retreat, I was greeted by a bright and airy reception.  One can immediately tell that no expense was spared in the design and interior of The Retreat, it is simply beautiful.   Its calm simplicity is where it differs from every other spa I have visited in Asia. Rather than going down the Asian zen-like interior route, the design team at The Retreat have opted for a clean, crisp, almost Miami beach chic, without a Buddha or a bong in sight.  The reception is also home to a Tony & Guy hair salon, and a fabulous health conscious cafe which offers a variety of snacks, salads, and home made smoothies and juices, the perfect compliment to a health spa.  The only shame is the window situation which I was assured is in the process of being fixed.  Running the whole length of the property will be floor to ceiling windows with unparalleled panoramic views overlooking Repulse Bay.  These are currently walled up due to planning bureaucracy, but once these are opened, The Retreat will have one of the best views in Hong Kong.

Mini Aura-Soma Introduction
My Therapist Carol first lead me into a room filled with hundreds of back-lit, beautiful dual coloured bottles.  Every colour combination conceivable was on view for me to choose from.  I was told to chose the four bottles that appealed to me the most, then Carol would be able to tell me about my personalty, talents, present situation and potential.  By interpreting the colours I chose,  Carol was able to tell me that I was very chilled out, relaxed, and happy.  I would expect that a beauty and spa writer would be very chilled out, with all the treatments reviewed, otherwise the spas would be doing something very wrong.  She then chose a particular bottle to take into the treatment room, which was to be opened and the colours’ energy was then said to work in alignment with the therapy.  I was also then ‘prescribed’ a certain shower gel which would help me in day to day life.  Although extremely charming, and enjoyable to hear about, I am always rather cautious about delving into ‘fortune telling’, as for the unsound mind, I believe that readings can be detrimental.  I was however assured that this was not fortune telling, but a heavily researched colour therapy that can aide you to a better path.  In fifteen minutes it is hard to tell if this is true, but it left me intrigued and interested to try a full consultation to find out what it is really about.  In the meantime, a little pink bottle came with me into room two…

The Treatment
Once inside the aqua and mosaic room, I derobed and was smothered from head to toe in rich, gooey dark chocolate.  I was then wrapped in cling film and covered in a heated blanket.  Although I was concerned that I would be cooked like a brownie, Carol informed me that the chocolate was extremely good for the skin, and would balance and hydrate my post Phuket sun-snogged skin.  While I was happily cooking, Carol started on the ‘Exotic Moisture Dew Facial’  and head massage, in which I found myself happily snoring.  I was then unwrapped from my cocoon and told to wash off the chocolate, which was a lot harder that I imagined as it was extremely sticky, but once clean my skin was as soft as a baby’s bottom, and left smelling of a bar of Dairy Milk.  Back on the bed I was treated to a collagen eye treatment to soothe my dark circles, and was sent back into a delirious snooze.  I was once again woken up, and left to dress.  I was then lead into the nail parlour, which hopefully soon will have the wonderful floor-to-ceiling windows.  Sitting in one of the most ingenious pedi-chairs I have ever seen, I had a coral pink OPI pedicure, which by all accounts was one of the best I have ever had.

The Conclusion
I was literally floating when I left The Retreat, the delicate smell of the chocolate on my skin seemed to continue my state of relaxation, more than the usual smell of aromatherapy oil that lingers after a treatment.  My skin felt ridiculously soft and fabulous, my eye bags didn’t seem as prominent as usual, and my toes looked beautiful.  I’m yet to decide if the little pink Aura-Soma bottle in the room added to the effect, but I went to sleep feeling somewhat royal and not wanting my day to end.

The Retreat details here
Queen for a Day  175 mins $tbc
Collegen Eye Treatment 30 mins $tbc

My antics so far this weekend would certainly suggest otherwise.
It’s Sunday morning, I am in a world of lager-induced pain, and I am back at the scene of crime – Lan Kwai Fong – for my first treatment as BBHK male grooming editor.
Cheers to Beers, the award-winning signature treatment at Sense of Touch (52 D’Aguilar Street), claims to the contrary, that beer is in fact the answer for the travel-heavy, muscle weary man. As I make my way up Lan Kwai Fong, tip toeing through the ebs and flows of last night’s empties (a selection of which are likely to have been mine), I think am going to need some convincing.

A bubble beer bath
Having de-frocked, I am plunged into a deep bath of Aromatherapy Associates body wash, topped up with a flagon of dark ale. Bishnu, my therapist is keen to point out that it’s not for drinking, (don’t worry Bishnu, I’m still in the “I’m never drinking again” zone). It’s only part-fermented beer. Lacking in the strong scent of lager, half-fermented ale is rich in vitamin B, great for strong and healthy hair, nails and skin. I am told 30 minutes in here will warm and relax my tired muscles and that Cleopatra and other fashionistas supposedly bathed in beer for its skin softening properties. It would appear I am in good company (metaphorically, not physically unfortunately).
My bathe time passes quickly and I am certainly feeling a little revived, not to mention soft and smooth. Bishnu returns and tucks me into a tapestry of well-conditioned towels in anticipation of phase two, a 60 minute stress-relieving deep tissue massage.

Massage me
Bishnu tells me the Aromatherapy Associates body gel she’s willing into my aching limbs is water based and contains ginger, lavender and black pepper. The trio work together to heat and then relieve muscular pain.
The hour-long full body massage strikes a perfect balance. It goes to work on the bits that need it most, without losing the stress-free touch. A barley scrub is also offered as part of a slightly dearer two-hour package which opens the paws and softens the skin to an even greater degree.
My 90-minute treatment is concluded with a good going over with de-stress muscle body oil, which I’m told is also great for the temples and lymph nodes for headache relief.
“The treatments carry on working for another 48 hours,” says Bishnu as my time draws to a close. The oil molecules that are busy working their way into my skin are very fine, absorbed through hair follicles and are – as I speak – flowing directly into my blood stream. If they can just help displace last night’s excesses that seem reticent to the idea of leaving, we will be on to an absolute winner, I think to myself.
Is Cheers to Beers a boy’s thing, I ask Bishnu. “Not at all,” she replies, “women love it too.” I can see why as I leave refreshed and smelling of ginger, pepper and particularly lavender.
As a parting word it’s reiterated once more to me how great Cheers to Beers is for the business traveller. Well, as fate would have it, I fly to London in T minus 36 hours. I wonder, how will I feel in 48 hours time?…

Tuesday, 6am. Heathrow Airport Arrivals Lounge
A full English breakfast with proper bacon, sausages and sloppy cafeteria baked beans certainly play their part, but I do indeed feel pretty good, all things considered.
I’ve done lots of things with beer, including using it to try and make me feel better, but I don’t think I’ve ever bathed in it, and I’m certain it’s never made me feel this good. Perhaps I have found the true meaning of the warning labels that adorn the city’s liquor bottles… enjoy responsibly!

Drew Mills – male grooming editor

_________
Bath, scrub and massage: $1590/2 hours
Bath and massage only: $990/90 minutes
Sense of Touch details here