Grand Velas Riviera Maya Launches First Spa Atelier Workshop

Riviera Maya, Mexico  – Se Spa at the AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya has launched its Spa Atelier, workshops inspired by local Mexican culture and based upon the principles of ancient Ayurvedic medicine that center around self-discovery. The first offering at the resort is a workshop to make energy bites full of superfoods. Recipes will vary from Cacao and Matcha-Pistachio to Cranberry-Orange and Carrot. Superfoods are foods that increase energy and improve retention, as well as provide antioxidants, minerals and vitamins and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. The Spa Atelier concept initially launched last year at its sister property Grand Velas Los Cabos. It features Mandala meditation, tea discovery, DIY body scrubs based on one’s Dosha and a Natura Bissé Facial Masterclass. The Energy Bites Workshop at Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an hour long, held every Thursday, July through September, for small groups of 3 – 6 people. The class costs $65 USD per person. For those who can’t make it to the resort to try out the class, Grand Velas Riviera Maya shares a recipe to make some of the energy bites at home. Cacao Energy Bites 1/3 cup            powdered cocoa 16                    dried dates 7 tbsp               honey 1 tsp                 coconut oil 1 tsp                 Maca root powder 1 tsp                 acai ½ cup               rolled oats 4 cups              cashews For toppings: amaranth, chia, hemp seeds and grated coconut Process: Chop the dates in a food processor before adding the cocoa, Maca, honey, coconut oil, oats, acai and cashews. Pour the mixture into a bowl and mix until well combined. Roll into balls a little under an inch and finish with topping of choice. Nightly rates start at $393 USD. Rates are per person based on double occupancy and include all tour arrangements and transportation, luxury suite accommodations, à la carte gourmet meals at a variety of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24-hour in-suite service, fitness center, taxes, gratuity and more. For reservations or additional information, call 1-888-407-4869, or visit https://www.rivieramaya.grandvelas.com. About Grand Velas Riviera Maya: The AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an ultra-luxury all-inclusive resort set on 206 acres of pristine jungle and mangroves and with the finest white sand beach in the Riviera Maya. Guests can choose among three separate ambiances, including adults-only oceanfront, family-friendly ocean view and a Zen-like tropical setting, embraced by the flora and fauna of the Yucatan Peninsula’s jungle. All 539 designer-like suites are exceptionally spacious, more than 1,100 square feet each, all with balconies, and some with private plunge pools. All feature fully stocked mini bars, L’Occitane amenities, artisanal tequila, and Nespresso coffee machines. Bathrooms deserve special mention with walk in glass shower, deep soaking Jacuzzi tubs and marble interior. Eight restaurants, including five gourmet offerings, present a tour through Mexico, Europe and Asia. Cocina de Autor, at the hands ofworld renowned celebrity chefs Bruno Oteiza, Mikel Alonso and Xavier Pérez Stone, holds the AAA Five Diamond Award, the first all-inclusive restaurant in the world to win this prestigious distinction. Se Spa is the region's largest spa sanctuary at more than 90,000 square feet, known for its authentic Mexican treatments, offerings from around world and signature seven-step water journey. Other features include 24-hour Personal Concierge; 24/7 in-suite service; three swimming pools; two fitness centers; water sports; innovative Kids’ Clubs and Teens’ Club; baby concierge; Karaoke Bar; Koi Bar; Piano Bar, and business center. The resort offers more than 91,000 square feet of meeting space and outdoor areas for events inclusive of a 31,000-square-foot Convention Center, able to accommodate up to 2,700 guests. The resort has won numerous awards from Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, USA Today and several other magazines and major companies worldwide, including Virtuoso’s Best Spa and TripAdvisor’s Hall of Fame. A member of the Virtuoso Hotels & Resorts Program, Grand Velas Riviera Maya was built and is operated by Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder and president of Velas Resorts, with brother Juan Vela, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side. For reservations or additional information, call 1-888-407-4869, or visithttps://www.rivieramaya.grandvelas.com.

Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa Joins Curio Collection by Hilton

DESERT OASIS: CURIO – A COLLECTION BY HILTON

ADDS MIRAMONTE INDIAN WELLS RESORT & SPA

Four-diamond resort near Palm Springs offers tranquil, unique hotel experience

INDIAN WELLS, Calif.   An historic, tranquil four-diamond resort in the Southern California desert is the newest addition to Curio – A Collection by Hilton, a global portfolio of distinctive upper upscale hotels. 

Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton, is an 11-acre oasis nestled at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains. With 215 guest rooms, suites and villas – many offering inspiring views of the resort’s manicured gardens – Miramonte Indian Wells Resort blends classic sophistication with the relaxing comforts of its award-winning spa.

“The natural beauty and desert climate draw travelers from all over the world to Indian Wells, and the beautiful Miramonte property perfectly complements that aura with its world-class spa, relaxing accommodations, access to several golf courses and more,” said Mark Nogal, global head, Curio – A Collection by Hilton. “This hotel enriches our growing collection and will delight guests seeking a remarkable resort experience.”

Relaxation Required

Opened in 1960 as the Erawan Garden, the resort operates one of the nation’s most acclaimed spas and treatment facilities. Approaching an extensive multi-million dollar renovation, the 12,000-square-foot Well Spa will offer award-winning services in an intimate environment, and features 13 treatment rooms, seasonal offerings and a courtyard with two private salt water pools.

Guests seeking other soothing experiences in the desert sunshine may enjoy staff-led yoga classes and wellness walks among the grounds, or revel in the Miramonte Pool, which also features chaise lounges, umbrellas and food and beverages all day. Poolside cabanas are available for rent, offering refuge from the sun with a soothing ceiling fan and personal water misters. For even more serenity, the Piedmont Pool includes access to a heated whirlpool, sun decks and food and beverage service.

The 24-hour fitness center includes free weights and the latest exercise equipment.

Delectable Dining Options, Inside and Out

Guests may select from a bevy of culinary choices at Miramonte Indian Wells. Dining is divine at the Grove Artisan Kitchen, which specializes in fresh, seasonal California cuisine simply prepared with time honored techniques. From Huevos Rancheros for breakfast to Zarzuela de Mariscos for dinner, the diverse menu features organic produce, fresh herbs, local ranch-raised meats, fresh Pacific seafood, house-made pastas and innovative vegetarian dishes.

For an afternoon or evening respite, guests may unwind from a long day of activities by indulging in hand-crafted cocktails or delicious bites, from either the outdoor patio or from the comfortable interior of the Vineyard Lounge. Those wishing to enjoy a light meal or cocktails without leaving their lounge chair can choose to indulge poolside, at any of the resort’s three pools.

Glorious Guest Rooms, Suites and Villas

Each of the Miramonte’s 215 guest rooms, suites and villas mixes traditional with rustic design, and many feature sweeping views of the Santa Rosa Mountains or the plush resort. Bougainvillea-covered suites and villas come with private balconies or semi-private patios. A highlight is the one-bedroom, apartment style Presidential Suite; its separate dining area can seat eight guests who may dine while overlooking the resort’s signature pool.

Pet-friendly rooms, in-room dining and complimentary Wi-Fi are also provided.

Inspiring Meetings and Weddings, Indoors or Outside

With over 35,000 square feet of stunning flexible event and meeting space, and the availability of numerous outdoor garden venues on its 11-acre property, Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa can accommodate up to 500 guests – making it one of the area’s most popular destinations for weddings, conferences, business meetings and social gatherings. Many facilities feature natural light with dramatic views of the Santa Rosa Mountain range.

“From our romantic architecture to our renowned spa and wellness program, Miramonte offers everything a traveler can desire for a relaxing stay amidst the natural beauty of the desert,” said Mark Jeffrey, general manager, Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton. “We are thrilled to now be part of Curio to leverage the power of the Hilton name while maintaining our distinct identity and spirit.”

Located 15 miles from Palm Springs International Airport, the resort and spa is centrally located in Indian Wells Valley, just a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, San Diego and Orange County.

Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton is part of Hilton HHonors®, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 13 distinct hotel brands. Hilton HHonors members who book directly with Hilton save time and money and gain instant access to the benefits they care about most, such as an exclusive member discount, free Wi-Fi and the ability to earn and redeem Points for free nights.

To celebrate Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa’s addition to Curio Collection, Hilton HHonors members can earn 1,000 points per night on eligible stays from December 20, 2016 through June 20, 2017. Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa is owned by Rockpoint Group and managed by Two Roads Hospitality. It is located at 45000 Indian Wells Lane, Indian Wells, California 92210. For more information, or to make a reservation, travelers can call +1 760-341-2200 or visit curio.com.

For more information, visit curio.com. 

About Curio – A Collection by Hilton

Curio – A Collection by Hilton™ (curio.com), launched in 2014, is a global set of hand-picked upscale hotels that meet independent-minded travelers’ desire for local discovery and authentic experiences, all while providing the quiet reassurance and support of the Hilton name and its award-winning Hilton HHonors program. Discover the collection’s latest stories at news.curio.com, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter or inquire about development opportunities at hiltonworldwide.com/development. 

About Hilton

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company, comprising more than 4,800 managed, franchised, owned and leased hotels and timeshare properties with nearly 789,000 rooms in 104 countries and territories. For 97 years, Hilton has been dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences. The company's portfolio of 13 world-class global brands includes Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Canopy by Hilton, Curio - A Collection by Hilton, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites by Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton by Hilton, Tru by Hilton, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Home2 Suites by Hilton and Hilton Grand Vacations. The company also manages an award-winning customer loyalty program, Hilton HHonors®. Hilton HHonors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to benefits including an exclusive member discount, free standard Wi-Fi, as well as digital amenities that are available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton HHonors app, where Hilton HHonors members can check-in, choose their room, and access their room using a Digital Key. Visit news.hiltonworldwide.com for more information and connect with Hilton on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr, LinkedIn and Instagram.

About Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & SpaMiramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa is an intimate desert oasis created for the independent-minded traveler. The 215-room resort provides an easy escape to a world of approachable sophistication. Miramonte features the award-winning Well Spa, the acclaimed Grove Artisan Kitchen and Vineyard Lounge, three resort pools, a 24-hour fitness center, access to premier golf and tennis and much more. For more information on Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa, visit www.miramonteresort.com Follow us on Twitter, Instagram or like us on Facebook.

About Two Roads Hospitality
Created in September 2016, Two Roads Hospitality is an international lifestyle company encompassing an unrivaled collection of distinctive properties, passionate people, and remarkable experiences around the globe. The company is named for the newly-merged Commune and Destination Hotels, bringing together over 40 years of combined expertise exclusively dedicated to the boutique and lifestyle space. Comprised of Joie de Vivre Hotels, Thompson Hotels, Destination Hotels, tommie and Alila Hotels & Resorts, the company is the leading operator of independent and lifestyle hotels with more than 95 properties in eight countries and growing, also boasting an extensive roster of award-winning restaurants and bars, stunning vacation residences, world-class golf courses, and indigenous spa and wellness offerings. For more information on Two Roads Hospitality, visit www.tworoadshotels.com, follow us on Twitter (@TwoRoadsHotels), or like us on Facebook.

Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas To Open Its First North American Property In New York In 2019, Its First Urban Hotel

 

BANGKOK – October 6, 2016 – Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas is delighted to announce the brand’s long-anticipated debut in the United States with the opening of Six Senses New York, a luxury hotel being developed by HFZ Capital Group in New York City between Manhattan’s popular High Line and the natural wonder of the Hudson River.

The extraordinary setting combined with an exciting new development project made this opportunity an idyllic ‘urban home’ for the first U.S. hotel project for Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas and its flagship urban property, as announced today by Chief Executive Officer Neil Jacobs. “This project is a fascinating and exciting contrast to the typical Six Senses locations where we operate resorts in settings with azure waters, UNESCO heritage listings and lush rainforests,” said Jacobs. “Six Senses New York will have the same touch-points and DNA, with some creative adaptation of course, but with no compromises on our commitment to community, wellness, sustainability and design. We are delighted to be partnering with HFZ on this fabulous urban development.”

The development project by HFZ Capital Group is located on 10th Avenue, the site encompasses the entire block between 17th and 18th streets in the heart of the city’s vibrant and artsy Chelsea neighborhood. The overall project, named The Eleventh, features two soaring towers designed by award-winning architectural and design group BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group).  The towers’ design draws inspiration from New York City's classic Modernist structures and cultural institutions, while also playfully skewing the traditional skyscraper form with their rotating appearance. The stone and metal facades will add a dynamic yet harmonious twist to a vibrant West Chelsea neighborhood that has become known around the world for its groundbreaking contemporary architecture. The towers are approximately 300 and 400 feet (90 and 120 meters) tall, making them far taller than surrounding buildings and create expansive vistas of the High Line, Hudson River and Downtown and Midtown skylines. This mixed-use development will bring luxury to downtown Manhattan’s West Side with its first five-star hotel, approximately 240 condominium residences and high-end retail shopping.

The hotel will be located in the east tower directly adjacent to the High Line with ten floors and 137 keys. A popular New York City landmark, the High Line has helped transform the area into a must-see destination for both locals and tourists. Hotel accommodations will begin at a generous 400 square feet (37 square meters) to enable Six Senses New York to deliver the high level of personal service and lifestyle quality for which the brand is synonymous. 

“We are setting a new precedent for architecture, design and lifestyle in downtown Manhattan, in a world-class location squarely between the High Line and Hudson River,” said HFZ Capital Group Chairman and Founder Ziel Feldman. “Six Senses will bring something completely unique to the New York City hospitality space while helping us realize our vision for The Eleventh. As a company we share in Six Senses' commitment to a forward-thinking, environmentally-conscious mentality that makes no compromise on quality and service, making this the perfect partnership." 

Pegasus Capital Advisors L.P., a New York-based private equity fund, acquired Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas in 2012. Pegasus is partnering with HFZ in the development of the hotel. “We are delighted to join forces with HFZ to make this vision a reality,” said Craig Cogut, chairman and president of Pegasus.
 
A prime project commitment is to the environment and the project is being meticulously planned with the intent to attain LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certification. Hotel guest rooms will be designed and appointed in compliance with the Six Senses brand’s dedication to sustainability and reverence for the environment.

Spas are an integral part of the Six Senses brand. Six Senses Spa New York will offer a layered approach to wellness with treatments that are an intuitive mix of science and human awareness, where a high-tech and high-touch approach defines service that is crafted around the individual.

Two restaurants will be located in the hotel and showcase the brand’s popular culinary approach to wellness by serving fresh, seasonal and locally-sourced produce and ingredients. Plans are also underway to create a unique private members club within the hotel and innovative meeting space to cater to small groups and board meetings. 

Six Senses New York is slated to open in 2019. 

From left to right: Ziel Feldman, chairman and founder of HFZ Capital Group, Bjarke Ingels, founding partner of BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group) with Neil Jacobs, chief executive officer of Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas at the site of Six Senses New York.

 
Six Senses New York will occupy 10 Floors of The Eleventh in the East Tower adjacent to the High Line. The development features two soaring towers designed by BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group).

Six Senses New York is a key component of The Eleventh development by HFZ Capital Group, set between Manhattan’s popular High Line and the Hudson River.

 

Becoming Part of Manhattan’s skyline, Six Senses New York features two contemporary towers (right) set between the popular High Line and the Hudson River.

About Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas
Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas operates 11 resorts and 28 spas in 19 countries under the brand names Six Senses, Evason and Six Senses Spas. Aggressive development plans will triple the portfolio over the next five years with resort, hotel and spa openings underway in Austria, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, Egypt, Fiji, France, India, Indonesia, Italy, Nicaragua, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates and United States. Six Senses operates resorts in far-flung locations of incredible natural beauty known for their distinctive and diverse design personalities. Each of the 9 properties is supported by a leadership commitment to community, sustainability, wellness and design. Six Senses hotels which share the same vision and values found at their award-winning resorts will premiere in urban locations in 2019. 

Six Senses Spas offers a wide range of holistic wellness, rejuvenation and beauty treatments administered under the guidance of expert therapists. Six Senses Spas are located in all Six Senses and Evason resorts; 18 additional standalone spas are located in prestigious hotels and resorts as well as the premier class lounges of two major airports.

Evason introduces a collection of two unique resorts that follow the Six Senses philosophy of uncompromised responsibility to sustainability and to the community. Family friendly, these properties also provide a strong value focus while offering a vast array of guest services and personal attention.

The World's Best New Spas

 By Krisanne Fordham, for CNN

(CNN)Whether it's a full-scale detox or just a serious pamper session, there's no shortage of terrific spas to choose from.

The past year alone has seen the debut of hundreds of wellness oases across the globe -- a sign, perhaps, that spas have transitioned from being a mere extravagance to an essential part of travel.

From health retreats on Sicily's sun-kissed Mediterranean coast to high-end hammams in the Caribbean, we've handpicked the world's 10 best new spas, based on service, treatments, amenities and ambiance.

Rocco Forte Spa at Verdura Resort (Sicily, Italy)

There's no spa in Italy quite like the new, 43,000-square-foot Rocco Forte Spa on Sicily's southwest coast.

For starters, it sits on its own private stretch of coastline, with uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean from almost every angle.

Unsurprisingly, the focus here is on thalassotherapy: the medicinal and therapeutic use of seawater and marine elements.

It has an extensive thalassotherapy circuit, consisting of four outdoor pools offering varying levels of salinity and heat.

Treatments, like the Seaweed Body Scrub ($130), incorporate locally sourced marine ingredients like kelp, sea salt and micronized algae to purify and detoxify the body.

Thalassotherapy aside, there's also an infrared sauna, a 65-foot-long swimming pool and a juice bar that serves up organic, antioxidant-packed juices all day long.

 

Spa at Ritz-Carlton, Bali (Bali, Indonesia)

Though it's just six months old, the spa at the Ritz-Carlton Bali is already proving to be as impressively luxurious as the hotel itself.

Decked out in suar wood and glossy marble, the spa features a state-of-the-art hydromassage pool comprising of five sections that target different areas of the body.

There are also two Jacuzzis, cold plunge pools, steam and sauna rooms, and a yoga studio overlooking the Indian Ocean.

In addition to 14 free-standing treatment rooms, there are four private spa villas outfitted with their own Balinese bathing pools and open-air lounges.

Treatments blend ancient Balinese methods and modern techniques, and incorporate locally harvested ingredients like coconuts, seaweed and pearls, which are said to have nourishing antioxidant properties.

 

Shiseido Spa at Excelsior Hotel Gallia (Milan, Italy)

Shiseido is now Milan's largest spa.

Sprawled across the sixth and seventh floors of the plush new Excelsior Hotel Gallia, Milan's newest spa -- opened late last year -- is also the largest in the city, clocking in at just under 11,000 square feet.

It has an indoor swimming pool with hydromassage and waterfalls, a Turkish hammam, an ice room and even a salt chamber, with walls made from sea salt imported from the Himalayas (said to promote better breathing).

But guests are really here for the high-tech treatments: The spa uses a cutting-edge Japanese formulation called Skingenecell 1P, said to be the first ingredient in the world to repel the fundamental cause of skin damage and aging.

After something a little more low-key?

The spa's Zen Bathing Ceremony ($285), a two-hour-long, mineral-rich soak, is a perfect pick-me-up.

Thai House at Zemi Beach House Resort and Spa (Shoal Bay, Anguilla)

This isn't just any thatched-roof island spa: the newly opened Thai House is a full-fledged wellness center on the shores of Shoal Bay.

Here can be found the island's only hammam, a meditation garden, mud deck, yoga studio, hydrotherapy showers and vitality pool set to guests' body temperature.

There's even a juice bar.

Its treatment rooms, built inside a traditional, 300-year-old Thai House (hence the name), have their own private relaxation lounges with ocean or garden views.

Treatments are inspired by the wellness rituals of the local Taino people and use the healing benefits of local herbs, flowers, mud and sea salt.

The signature Zemi Sun Ritual ($305), for example, uses salt, papaya and macadamia nuts to exfoliate skin, followed by an oil treatment infused with local frangipani and jasmine oils.

Baglioni SPA at Baglioni Hotel London (London)

Baglioni SPA offers a select menu of 14 treatments.

Located in the bustling heart of London opposite Kensington Park, this sleek newcomer feels like an oasis hidden in plain sight.

Launched in 2015 after a total makeover, the spa is ultramodern yet earthy, with nature-inspired artwork, warm colors and dark wood decor throughout.

With just five treatment rooms and a menu of only 14 treatments, the cozy spa focuses on quality over quantity.

As a result, treatments are as indulgent and luxurious as possible, from circulation-boosting 24-carat gold masks ($200), to diamond nectar-infused facials ($180) said to reduce hyperpigmentation and brighten skin.

There's even a rare facial made just for gents ($120) which uses green tea and mushroom extracts to detoxify and reduce pore size.

Spa at Bernardus Lodge (Carmel Valley, California)

The views from the newly relaunched spa at Bernardus Lodge are worth the visit alone.

Situated in the heart of Monterey wine country, it's flanked by 28 acres of sun-drenched vineyards, orchards and oak forests.

It has all the features of a five-star spa: a sprawling pool, an outdoor Jacuzzi, a eucalyptus steam room, Vichy showers, a dry sauna and a state-of-the-art, 24-hour fitness center.

But it's the spa's strict "garden-to-treatment" philosophy -- which sources ingredients used in treatments from the lodge's own organic garden -- that makes it truly stand out.

Everything from facials to pedicures are infused with homegrown lavender, mint, rosemary and Chardonnay grapes from the lodge's own vineyards.

Guests can even soak in a Chardonnay-infused bubble bath.

Spa at Reverie Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)

Opened last September, this two-level, 13,000-square-foot space is more like a full-fledged wellness center than a hotel spa.

With two open-air Jacuzzis, an 80-foot-long (almost Olympic-sized) swimming pool, several thermal areas and a 1,300-square-foot gym, it's the largest spa in the city.

It's also as unabashedly opulent as the hotel itself, decked out completely in Carrara marble, hand-laid mosaics and gold accents.

Treatments are fittingly decadent, from mother-of-pearl scrubs ($90) to over-the-top couples' treatments featuring red wine body wraps and massages by candlelight, with champagne and caviar refreshments ($820).

Bohemia Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Prague (Prague)

In the heart of Old Town Prague, with sweeping vistas over the Vltava river, Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, Prague's newest spa might also be its loveliest.

Location aside, the space is architecturally striking -- set in a historic neoclassical building that shares the same elegant Baroque touches as the hotel itself.

Inside are mineral-rich thermal baths and an oxygen-intensified vitality pool said to have healing properties.

Treatments are inspired by traditional Czech and Hungarian therapies and use local ingredients like linden oil, drawn from the blossoms of the Czech Republic's national tree.

Though the new space won't officially open until the summer, a taste of its treatments can be found at the hotel's current spa, which continues to be fully operational.

Spa at Six Senses Qing Cheng Mountain (Sichuan, China)

Spa at Six Senses focuses on traditional Chinese therapies.

Situated in the picturesque foothills of China's Qing Cheng Mountain -- a UNESCO World Heritage Site -- this brand new spa's tranquil, river valley setting is as healing as the treatments themselves.

Here, traditional Chinese therapies and Tao principles reign supreme, with little regard for modern, Western spa trends.

Instead of high-tech treatments, there's acupuncture, cupping, which uses heated cups to promote circulation, and Gua Sha, which detoxifies and heals through repeated, pressurized strokes.

In lieu of stem cell-infused creams and diamond nectar serums, wraps and scrubs are formulated from simple but potent local ingredients like gingko, lotus, ginger and bamboo.

 

Thermes Marins at Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo (Monaco)

Thermes Marins, which underwent a multimillion dollar makeover and relaunched last year, is exactly the kind of spa you'd expect to see in Monaco.

The ultramodern, four-level space overlooks Monte Carlo Harbor and boasts its own hammam, an ocean-facing saltwater pool, a state-of-the-art gym and a full-service beauty salon.

It's also home to the only spa in Europe with a cryotherapy complex, which consists of two cold chambers set at -60 C and -110 C. (Cryotherapy is said to stimulate the immune system, treat inflammation and help with anti-aging).

There's even a dedicated organic restaurant onsite, L'Hirondelle, which serves up seasonal dishes of 500 calories or less.

Jumping Ship: Carnival’s New Money-Back Guarantee Explained

Contributed by Donna Tunney

iStock

Carnival Cruise Lines endured a negative media frenzy earlier this year when its Carnival Triumph lost power due to an engine room fire and became stranded in the Gulf of Mexico. Shortly after, propulsion and power problems affected two other Carnival ships, causing the suspension of a cruise and missed port calls.

In order to convince potentially weary consumers to book a cruise, the line has launched the “Great Vacation Guarantee,” a policy that enables dissatisfied passengers to disembark the ship and end their voyage early. They’ll also receive a 110 percent refund, free transportation home, and a $100 credit for a future sailing – that is, if they weren’t sufficiently spooked to never book again.

Taking a closer look at the new “guarantee” policy, a few things jump out:

To qualify for the refund, transportation, and $100 credit, passengers must notify the ship’s guest services desk within the first 24 hours of the voyage. That’s not much time. The first day of a cruise tends to be chaotic. People are unpacking, finding their way around the ship and recovering from travel. A Carnival spokesman said the clock starts ticking when the ship departs the port, and that’s typically 4 p.m. Twenty-four hours is probably not enough time for most passengers to make an informed decision about whether to stay or go. (But just enough time to make them think they can).

That being said, refunding 110 percent of the cruise fare paid is a nice bonus, albeit a small one. On a five-day Western Caribbean cruise from Miami in mid-December, for example, an inside cabin sells for $219 per person via the Carnival website, thus entitling the customer to an extra $21. Book a suite on that same cruise, for $699 per person, and the bonus refund is close to $70 – pocket change to some, but it could offset some portion of the onboard bill, which is not reimbursed under the guarantee.

The cruise line also pledges to cover return air fare, ground transportation, and hotel costs, if necessary, for those who call it quits. Consider that hotel rates are particularly high in the Caribbean during winter season, when a last-minute stay in a mid-range property can easily run $300 a night. As a result, this actually can have a lot of value, potentially worth hundreds of dollars, depending on the passenger’s final destination and whether an overnight is involved.

As a part of the guarantee, Carnival will handle the return arrangements. And if your vacation is coming to a close after just one day, you probably don’t need any more aggravation. Let the cruise line figure it out for you.

Our conclusion? The Great Vacation Guarantee is a solid, valuable offer that will entice mostly first-time cruisers to give Carnival a try, without fear of losing money or time.

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5 Cruise Myths, Debunked

Contributed by Donna Tunney

Christian Lambert Photography

Of all the vacation trip choices out there, cruising appears to have the greatest need to defend itself. Non-cruisers often are misinformed about shipboard life, landlubbers are anxious about the possibility of seasickness, and those who dislike closed spaces will avoid cruise ship cabins — just to name a few. But we think that these “obstacles” shouldn’t dissuade consumers from booking a vacation at sea. Here are five cruise myths, debunked:

1. Mass market ships are just party boats.
While it’s true that many cruisers aboard  lines such as Carnival Cruise Lines, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean International are looking for a festive atmosphere, others who want peace and quiet can easily find it on those very same lines. Today’s cruise ships are large enough to provide tranquil spaces, in the form of adults-only pool and lounge areas, out-of-the-way bars, and intimate dining venues. Passengers can read a book, sip a drink, or enjoy dinner well away from the mayhem in all of these spaces. If you are looking for extra relaxation, take a look at a ship’s deck plans and review public area descriptions to see if the facilities fit the bill.

2. Cabins are claustrophobic.
Cruisers have a wide range of cabin choices these days. For those who don’t like closed spaces, a balcony cabin is the answer. Of course, not all vacation budgets can accommodate such staterooms — but options like a partial-view porthole cabin provide a less-cramped ambience at very small increases in cost. (A partial-view cabin refers to one that has a window that’s partly obstructed by something outside, such as a lifeboat.) Disney Cruise Line also boasts “magical portholes” in many of its inside cabins, featuring screens displaying outside views to give the illusion of a window.

3. Cruises are more expensive than land trips.
Cruise rates change very frequently, based on occupancy levels day to day and week to week. The industry currently is offering some of its lowest rates in years on summer and fall Caribbean cruises, many as low as $50 or $60 per person, per day. Considering that all meals and entertainment are included in the fare, consumers are likely hard-pressed to find a better value. (Tip: You can find one if not more of such cruises in ShermansTravel’s weekly Top 25 deals.)

4. I’ll get seasick.
High winds and rolling seas can make a cruise ship tilt from side to side as it steams toward its next port call. But anti-seasickness medications are always available — for free — from a ship’s medical office. Passengers have also had luck with anti-seasickness wristbands, found in any pharmacy and reusable.

5. I’ll be bored on a ship.
This statement may have been true 20 years ago, but certainly not today. Outdoor activities on many ships include ropes courses, climbing walls, basketball courts, mini-golf courses, dive shows, and more. Inside, a vast array of music performances, movies, games, and sports bars provide hours of entertainment. That’s not to mention shore excursions where cruisers can stretch their legs dockside (a weeklong cruise will typically have at least three ports of call).

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