The World’s Best Spa Getaways When Christmas Stress Becomes too Much
Regardless of age, designation, cultural background or personal taste, pretty much everyone can agree a trip to the spa is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Job stress, both physically and mentally (whether you’re on your feet or at a desk — both present their own difficulties!) need to be addressed, and yes, a glass of wine certainly helps, but nothing provides that feeling of total bliss like an afternoon spent in a spa. In spirit of the quickly approaching holiday season, we’ve complied a short list of the world’s best places to unwind from all that added Christmastime stress — and perhaps found a place for you to shake it all off on your hols. Click through the images below to reach a state of bliss.
Miraj Hammam, Toronto, Canada Serenity and bliss can be found within the cacophony of the big city — just step into the decadently elegant Shangri La Hotel, and within it, the luxurious and tranquil Miraj Hammam Spa. Designed to whisky you away to Morocco’s famed and favoured spa aesthetic without having to leave your city, the Miraj Hammam is world’s away and instantly transports and transforms. Traditional treatments, like the gommage (scrub) get a modern, lavish twist, as it’s perfomed on Jerusalem gold marble.
Fivelements, Ubud, Bali To restore mind and body in a holistic, all-encompassing and eco-luxe setting, there is no better place that the Fivelements Retreat in Ubud. Healing the body and mind through holistic rituals, this boutique wellness healing centre is nestled amidst the emerald jungle and rushing Ayung River to submerse you in nature and health. This serene sanctuary uses the Hindu concept ‘Panca Mahabhuta’, represents the five elements (ether, air, fire, water and earth). Treatment rooms are exceptionally large, open-air, and overlook the river, which lends a tranquility and added element of relaxation during the mind-bendingly good and muscle-melting massage. Post-treatment, further detoxify and relax by soaking in a gigantic, stone tub overlooking the river post-therapy. Practically overflowing with good-for-you ingredients like lemongrass, ginger, salts and citrus, the open-air bath further soothes the soul and body.
Náay Spa, Playa del Carmen, Mexico With a margarita in hand and a sunny ocean view, Mexico is hard not to love. Unwind after a hard day on the beach (definite pun intended) and let your troubles dissolve in the El Dorado’s Spa and Resort’s Náay Spa. Pre-treatment, relax and rejuvenate the body by experiencing the spa’s Water Journey. Starting in the sauna and steam room, complete a circuit, which includes a whirlpool and cold plunge pool, and finishes with the sensation pool. Jets, waterfalls, bubble beds and volcanic geysers Sooth your body from head to toe before you treatment has even begun.
Cheval Blanc, Courcheval, France French anything (and everything) is quintessentially stylishly chic, absolutely elegant and understated yet luxurious. The Cheval Blanc embodies these characteristics, and does so with effective, sophisticated treatments and rituals specifically designed for an Alpine getaway. French favourite beauty brand Guerlain’s products enhance the experience and are used exclusively in the spa; indulge in a truly decadent experience in the spa’s renowned “Orchidée Salon, devoted to Guerlain’s exceptional anti-ageing skincare range, the result of more than a decade of research in Guerlain’s Orchidarium”. Also to be enjoyed is the spa’s divine infinity pool, rain shower, steam room and sauna. When you’re thoroughly blissed out and need a little styling, look no further than the innovative Hair Room Service. Helmed by the highly lauded hairdresser John Nollet, hailing from Paris, you’ll leave looking as good as you feel.
Mineralbad & Spa Ridi Kaltbad, Lucerne, Switzerland The recently opened Mineralbad & Spa Ridi Kaltbad offers guests the chance to soak in the softening mineral waters of the Kaltbad spring while taking in the spectacular surrounding mountain views Switzerland is so well known for. Seamlessly blending Swiss tradition (the spa is built into the side of a mountain and is reached by a cogwheel train) with ultra modern touches (like the crystal spa, where spa-goers float nine meters under the town’s square, and can enjoy the upwards view thanks to the many 3.5 meter-high crystal skylights), soaking in the waters is just one small part of the hugely enjoyable experience.