Luxury spa news, chitchat and review thread
Jul 5, 2017, 1:29 pm
#16
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: Europe
Posts: 2,599
hoteliermiddleeast.com/30989-four-seasons-beiruts-spa-manager-named-sodashi-ambassador/
Four Seasons Hotel Beirut spa manager Charbel Watfa has been selected by luxury spa and skincare brand Sodashi to become one of its ambassadors among all other Four Seasons and Resorts properties.
This new appointment, supported by Sodashi founder Megan Larsen along with Rami Sayess, regional vice president and general manager at Four Seasons Hotel Beirut, consolidates the collaboration between the luxury brand and the hotel's spa.
Watfa uses his previous physiotherapy expertise
Watfa travelled to Sodashi's headquarters in Sydney, followed by Perth, Sodashi's home-office and laboratory, where he was able to meet the entire Sodashi team along with Larsen, and contributed in numerous sessions on exploring new products and services based on guest requirements and market trends.
Watfa said in a statement: "I am a huge fan of Sodashi and its organic philosophy. It is an honour to be selected as ambassador and I look forward to welcoming Megan Larsen at Four Seasons Hotel Beirut to explore new possibilities with the brand."
Four Seasons Hotel Beirut spa manager Charbel Watfa has been selected by luxury spa and skincare brand Sodashi to become one of its ambassadors among all other Four Seasons and Resorts properties.
This new appointment, supported by Sodashi founder Megan Larsen along with Rami Sayess, regional vice president and general manager at Four Seasons Hotel Beirut, consolidates the collaboration between the luxury brand and the hotel's spa.
Watfa uses his previous physiotherapy expertise
Watfa travelled to Sodashi's headquarters in Sydney, followed by Perth, Sodashi's home-office and laboratory, where he was able to meet the entire Sodashi team along with Larsen, and contributed in numerous sessions on exploring new products and services based on guest requirements and market trends.
Watfa said in a statement: "I am a huge fan of Sodashi and its organic philosophy. It is an honour to be selected as ambassador and I look forward to welcoming Megan Larsen at Four Seasons Hotel Beirut to explore new possibilities with the brand."
Jul 7, 2017, 9:48 am
#18
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Original Poster
Join Date: Mar 2013
Location: Parts Unknown
Posts: 10,052
FS Seoul 90 min Energetic treatment review
http://www.fourseasons.com/seoul/spa...al_treatments/
Where: Four Seasons Seoul
Facilities: included with spa treatments but costs around $28 extra to use (even for in-house guests). I think this should be a FSPP benefit because it's not like you're going to have hundreds of FSPP guests that will turn the public bath, sauna, etc into a pool party. Your pick of different temperature hot tubs and cold ones, saunas and a large non-heated swimming pool. Seemingly no stern restrictions on bringing guests in and locals seem to do that in droves. Gets a little crowded and crazy with kids, especially, during this summer period. I went in and turned back.
The changerooms are very nice. Booths with a full array of products and grooming utensils.
Views obstructed by blinds and maybe because it's two-way glass. Office building next door can see in.
Pre treatment ritual: foot scrub
Therapist going through the motions. No attempt at reflexology or a decent foot rub. Feet in, scrub for 1 min and out.
Type of treatment
Results
They use some sort of Sodashi massage oil but the therapist didn't bother telling me the name or letting me pick.
The therapist did her best and I felt some relief after. She was kind of petite and well I could have used someone with more power. 18 months later and it's good to see that their therapists have become more seasoned.
Treatment room - Standard type, non-view
You have to be getting one of their top treatments to have the VIP suite (w/ windows and views) to yourself. I find it rather plain and sterile. The treatment here wasn't given much consideration by Mr. Fu and his team of designers because the following shouldn't happen. Outside street noise can be a problem, hence, why the therapist offered me earplugs...
Post treatment
Tea served in room. No loungers, magazine, juice and dried fruit relaxation area like MO Tokyo or PH Tokyo. They DO have this kind of facility but it's strictly for fitness club members only. I suppose you could ask to enjoy your tea there if you insisted but tea just comes to your room.
Verdict:
I'd go back but not when the various noisy protest groups are protesting in Gwanghwamun square. This spa is 100x better than Signiel Seoul's horrid Evian spa, Conrad, PH or any others in Seoul but still not a top FS spa.
Where: Four Seasons Seoul
Facilities: included with spa treatments but costs around $28 extra to use (even for in-house guests). I think this should be a FSPP benefit because it's not like you're going to have hundreds of FSPP guests that will turn the public bath, sauna, etc into a pool party. Your pick of different temperature hot tubs and cold ones, saunas and a large non-heated swimming pool. Seemingly no stern restrictions on bringing guests in and locals seem to do that in droves. Gets a little crowded and crazy with kids, especially, during this summer period. I went in and turned back.
The changerooms are very nice. Booths with a full array of products and grooming utensils.
Views obstructed by blinds and maybe because it's two-way glass. Office building next door can see in.
Pre treatment ritual: foot scrub
Therapist going through the motions. No attempt at reflexology or a decent foot rub. Feet in, scrub for 1 min and out.
Type of treatment
ENERGETIC
For muscles that need some remedial attention, this medium to strong massage uses techniques that include sports massage and deep tissue to reach deeper into problem areas and help disperse tension. Working within your body’s individual capabilities, the therapist will leave your body feeling more at ease than ever.
For muscles that need some remedial attention, this medium to strong massage uses techniques that include sports massage and deep tissue to reach deeper into problem areas and help disperse tension. Working within your body’s individual capabilities, the therapist will leave your body feeling more at ease than ever.
They use some sort of Sodashi massage oil but the therapist didn't bother telling me the name or letting me pick.
The therapist did her best and I felt some relief after. She was kind of petite and well I could have used someone with more power. 18 months later and it's good to see that their therapists have become more seasoned.
Treatment room - Standard type, non-view
You have to be getting one of their top treatments to have the VIP suite (w/ windows and views) to yourself. I find it rather plain and sterile. The treatment here wasn't given much consideration by Mr. Fu and his team of designers because the following shouldn't happen. Outside street noise can be a problem, hence, why the therapist offered me earplugs...
Post treatment
Tea served in room. No loungers, magazine, juice and dried fruit relaxation area like MO Tokyo or PH Tokyo. They DO have this kind of facility but it's strictly for fitness club members only. I suppose you could ask to enjoy your tea there if you insisted but tea just comes to your room.
Verdict:
I'd go back but not when the various noisy protest groups are protesting in Gwanghwamun square. This spa is 100x better than Signiel Seoul's horrid Evian spa, Conrad, PH or any others in Seoul but still not a top FS spa.
Last edited by Aventine; Jul 8, 2017 at 10:36 am
Jul 9, 2017, 2:07 pm
#19
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: Europe
Posts: 2,599
Thanks for posting this. Seems they have a challenge with the noise, which is not good -- kind of reminds of FS Casablanca's spa, which was a nightmare for me: no music, limited A/C, poor ventilation and tiny treatment rooms.
Jul 9, 2017, 2:55 pm
#20
Join Date: Jun 2016
Location: Washington DC (home); KSA (work)
Posts: 122
Miami Beach Hotel Spas
I am seeking guidance.
Much to my dismay, I am being dragged off into the jungles of Peru for the new year holiday period. Five days of sleeping with bugs, "indigenous food" and bathing in my own sweat. As a reward for not whining too much, I get to have two full days at a hotel spa of my choice in Miami Beach. My only experience in MB has been at the splendid but spa-less Tides Hotel. So I am in search of a luxury hotel with a truly killer spa to wash away the jungle.
Any recommendations?
Much to my dismay, I am being dragged off into the jungles of Peru for the new year holiday period. Five days of sleeping with bugs, "indigenous food" and bathing in my own sweat. As a reward for not whining too much, I get to have two full days at a hotel spa of my choice in Miami Beach. My only experience in MB has been at the splendid but spa-less Tides Hotel. So I am in search of a luxury hotel with a truly killer spa to wash away the jungle.
Any recommendations?
Jul 9, 2017, 3:30 pm
#21
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: Europe
Posts: 2,599
I am seeking guidance.
Much to my dismay, I am being dragged off into the jungles of Peru for the new year holiday period. Five days of sleeping with bugs, "indigenous food" and bathing in my own sweat. As a reward for not whining too much, I get to have two full days at a hotel spa of my choice in Miami Beach. My only experience in MB has been at the splendid but spa-less Tides Hotel. So I am in search of a luxury hotel with a truly killer spa to wash away the jungle.
Any recommendations?
Much to my dismay, I am being dragged off into the jungles of Peru for the new year holiday period. Five days of sleeping with bugs, "indigenous food" and bathing in my own sweat. As a reward for not whining too much, I get to have two full days at a hotel spa of my choice in Miami Beach. My only experience in MB has been at the splendid but spa-less Tides Hotel. So I am in search of a luxury hotel with a truly killer spa to wash away the jungle.
Any recommendations?
I would probably do MO or Faena. I have seen both Spas, but only tried treatments at MO. Faena has a wonderful hard product, sadly I haven't had a chance to try the treatments yet.
And now a warning... (to quote Isabella Rossellini).
Don't expect all too much in a Miami spa. People don't really like working in SoBe and generally I found standards a bit hard to uphold there. I don't know if you value a chemical-free option but you may not find it there. Ask for a senior therapist. My choice would be MO as you could do a time ritual and they also offer a true Thai massage.
I do not like the spa at the Setai, more so under new management. Don't bother. Also all of the party... err lifestyle hotels (think Edition etc) don't offer a great spa.
Venturing out to FS Surfside may be a bit long but I hear they have good therapists. Although menu quite limited.
Jul 9, 2017, 6:35 pm
#22
Join Date: Jun 2016
Location: Washington DC (home); KSA (work)
Posts: 122
Do you at least get to see Machu Picchu?
I would probably do MO or Faena. I have seen both Spas, but only tried treatments at MO. Faena has a wonderful hard product, sadly I haven't had a chance to try the treatments yet.
And now a warning... (to quote Isabella Rossellini).
Don't expect all too much in a Miami spa. People don't really like working in SoBe and generally I found standards a bit hard to uphold there. I don't know if you value a chemical-free option but you may not find it there. Ask for a senior therapist. My choice would be MO as you could do a time ritual and they also offer a true Thai massage.
I do not like the spa at the Setai, more so under new management. Don't bother. Also all of the party... err lifestyle hotels (think Edition etc) don't offer a great spa.
Venturing out to FS Surfside may be a bit long but I hear they have good therapists. Although menu quite limited.
I would probably do MO or Faena. I have seen both Spas, but only tried treatments at MO. Faena has a wonderful hard product, sadly I haven't had a chance to try the treatments yet.
And now a warning... (to quote Isabella Rossellini).
Don't expect all too much in a Miami spa. People don't really like working in SoBe and generally I found standards a bit hard to uphold there. I don't know if you value a chemical-free option but you may not find it there. Ask for a senior therapist. My choice would be MO as you could do a time ritual and they also offer a true Thai massage.
I do not like the spa at the Setai, more so under new management. Don't bother. Also all of the party... err lifestyle hotels (think Edition etc) don't offer a great spa.
Venturing out to FS Surfside may be a bit long but I hear they have good therapists. Although menu quite limited.
I have done some online research on the usual Miami Beach suspects: Edition, W, SLS, Delano. And have eliminated all of them from contention. I share your feelings towards SoBe service standards and I can't even imagine how mediocre they must be at the pretty young thing establishments. Besides, these hotels seem to have a "I guess we need a spa; let's shove one into this dark corner" attitude. So my choices have rapidly dwindled. The only reason why I'm even looking at hotel spas in Miami Beach is because we have to transit through MIA on our way back from Lima.
As of now, the serious contenders are: 1 Hotel, Faena and Carillion. The spa at Carillion looks wonderful but the hotel itself seems woefully lIke a cheap Marriott. A colleague of mine is lobbying for the Fountainbleu. And, indeed, the spa looks fantastic. But..it's in the Fountainbleu. Isn't that the blue-haired grandma hangout? I love how the Standard describes itself as a "spa with rooms." However, I fear the Standard is the sort of place where the staff responds to every request with an insolent rolling of the eyes. I also don't like how all the steam rooms, saunas, etc. appear to be unisex. I *loved* my experience at the Cowshed Spa in Berlin; but, was warned that the Miami Beach outpost is truly dismal. I had not considered the FS Surfside (I actually had forgotten that it even exists) but I shall now check it out. Thank you for that suggestion.
Unfortunately, visiting Machu Picchu is not in the cards. We're staying at some rustic jungle lodge outside of Iquitos. I'm told that it will be "fun".
Jul 9, 2017, 6:48 pm
#23
formerly declinespecificinformatiom
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: USA
Posts: 1,140
I just wrote a longer response, but, we just got back from the jungle two months ago in Ecuador and loved it. Loved it, and yes, you'll sweat. Enjoy it and don't whine otherwise you're gonna have to not do the spa for the sake of your integrity! 
I so deeply regretted staying in Cusco rather than going to the Inkaterra in the jungle nearly two years ago. I think you're in for a real treat.
St. Regis is worth looking at. Faena, Setail, Acqualina, COMO and FS Surfside would be the others I'd consider. COMO has a very high standard IMO and there's a lot of travel between the hotels between therapists I understand, so you'll have a high chance and can find out if there's someone who worked at Bali for example.
We'll be in Miami in a few months after Amanyara and COMO, Faena and the new FS seem most interesting to me right now.
Edition, W, SLS, Delano.... not places I would really consider myself if I were in your shoes... as it sounds like you're not the party type.
I so deeply regretted staying in Cusco rather than going to the Inkaterra in the jungle nearly two years ago. I think you're in for a real treat. St. Regis is worth looking at. Faena, Setail, Acqualina, COMO and FS Surfside would be the others I'd consider. COMO has a very high standard IMO and there's a lot of travel between the hotels between therapists I understand, so you'll have a high chance and can find out if there's someone who worked at Bali for example.
We'll be in Miami in a few months after Amanyara and COMO, Faena and the new FS seem most interesting to me right now.
Edition, W, SLS, Delano.... not places I would really consider myself if I were in your shoes... as it sounds like you're not the party type.
Last edited by DSI; Jul 9, 2017 at 6:59 pm
Jul 9, 2017, 7:04 pm
#24
formerly declinespecificinformatiom
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: USA
Posts: 1,140
The only spa that was not good was Amankora Paro. We were greeted for our hot stone bath by a lady who definitely looked like she was ready to leave wearing some sports jersey parka and running shoes. We were quickly ushered into the outdoor bathtub and stone masons were chiseling away some 5 feet away and we were worried that they'd move a foot and see us. They were talking laughing and working.
I complained to the Aman GM and no real concern about it. Glad it was my free Virtuoso benefit, but the whole process was completely worthless, expect that they easily arranged for a member on staff to watch our son for that hour. A walk would have been nicer.
I complained to the Aman GM and no real concern about it. Glad it was my free Virtuoso benefit, but the whole process was completely worthless, expect that they easily arranged for a member on staff to watch our son for that hour. A walk would have been nicer.
Jul 10, 2017, 7:56 am
#25
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jun 2006
Location: IAD/DCA
Posts: 31,797
seem to recall some yara reports specifically mentioning him here
might be able to email him and discuss dining possibilities / options
ask FS surfside (& FS palm beach?) whats under construction
IIRC Acqualina includes a pool private to spa treatment guests
dont think it impacts spa, but building has preexisting nonluxury condo
Last edited by Kagehitokiri; Jul 10, 2017 at 1:05 pm
Jul 10, 2017, 12:53 pm
#26
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Original Poster
Join Date: Mar 2013
Location: Parts Unknown
Posts: 10,052
The only spa that was not good was Amankora Paro. We were greeted for our hot stone bath by a lady who definitely looked like she was ready to leave wearing some sports jersey parka and running shoes. We were quickly ushered into the outdoor bathtub and stone masons were chiseling away some 5 feet away and we were worried that they'd move a foot and see us. They were talking laughing and working.
I complained to the Aman GM and no real concern about it. Glad it was my free Virtuoso benefit, but the whole process was completely worthless, expect that they easily arranged for a member on staff to watch our son for that hour. A walk would have been nicer.
I complained to the Aman GM and no real concern about it. Glad it was my free Virtuoso benefit, but the whole process was completely worthless, expect that they easily arranged for a member on staff to watch our son for that hour. A walk would have been nicer.
FS Seoul has a nice facility (minus the noise) but the therapists seem more interested in doing their job and going home. No extra time given or particular care to sore spots. I'm actually looking forward to SL Tokyo's CHI spa in 2 week's time. I hate upper management for their breakfast stinginess but their spa therapists are your transcendent ones. If you were making a spa therapist hologram - they'd be your perfect template...
Last edited by Aventine; Jul 10, 2017 at 12:58 pm
Jul 10, 2017, 4:58 pm
#27
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Enroute to ? & likely flying in ' A ':)
Programs: TPPS, UA, EK ...; Marriott BONVOY , HH, GP, GC..
Posts: 4,217
Amanemu has an excellent spa .
Amanpuri & Pulo have lovely hardware .
Many good therapists at Puri have moved on though .
No'i ' s is expansive enough & the therapists should be well seasoned by now .
Jena ' s new one is yet to happen , hopefully by next year .
Gani ' s was rather small , perhaps not insipid now .
Not sure how Taka 's is currently , was decent and calming enough while Gary T was there .
AmanSS I have heard is pretty awesome
We shall see what happens at Ruya
Enjoyed AmanSP but really do not know how the Chinese ones are like currently , waiting for an October opening for the latest
Still waiting for the Indon ones to happen . Will follow up on status in a few weeks .
Amanpuri & Pulo have lovely hardware .
Many good therapists at Puri have moved on though .
No'i ' s is expansive enough & the therapists should be well seasoned by now .
Jena ' s new one is yet to happen , hopefully by next year .
Gani ' s was rather small , perhaps not insipid now .
Not sure how Taka 's is currently , was decent and calming enough while Gary T was there .
AmanSS I have heard is pretty awesome
We shall see what happens at Ruya
Enjoyed AmanSP but really do not know how the Chinese ones are like currently , waiting for an October opening for the latest
Still waiting for the Indon ones to happen . Will follow up on status in a few weeks .
Last edited by FlyerEC; Jul 10, 2017 at 5:08 pm
Jul 12, 2017, 2:17 am
#28
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Original Poster
Join Date: Mar 2013
Location: Parts Unknown
Posts: 10,052
AO spa at Andaz Tokyo 90 min essential body treatment review
https://www.andaztokyo.jp/aospa/en/
Where?
Andaz Tokyo's AO spa. I think Rachael McCrory did a fabulous job building this spa up from the opening. She's moved on but her works continues to shine. It's an amazing concept and very memorable. Walking in is like walking into an art gallery and the jiyujizai seasonal spa apothecary experience is radically different from their Tokyo competitors.
Type of treatment:
90 minute essential body massage.
Treatment Rooms
Bigger than MO Tokyo and PH Tokyo base treatment rooms. Inferior to Aman in size and hardware.
5 normal rooms and one couple suite with a bath tub. All have natural light and a city view. Interesting fact: all come equipped with outdoor yoga platforms or a small viewing area.
The massage bed was comfortable and the head face pillow using very soft cotton. Plush! The sheets feel very cheap and thin though
Quality of treatment:
Lacking. I had my preferred therapist but she didn't seem to be engaged today. Massages can be great if the therapist is feeling "it" but I guess I caught her on an off day. It wasn't very relaxing. 20% off as compensation (really, becomes 10% because of the service charge)
Facilities
A very nice, but chilly pool with several jacuzzis off to the side. The sauna changing room is too small and fills up with fitness club members. Very limited soaking tub and sauna options.
Waiting/relaxing area
Just one space. It's ok but you can have company if multiple people are having treatments at the same time.
Ambiance
Very modern and art gallery like. You don't think you're in a spa until you go to the treatment rooms.
Products used or available
botanical seasonal Japanese apothecary
Elemental Herbology, Biologique Recherche and a Uji based-local brand called Kitoshina
Spa service levels
Everyone is very nice and kneels down to talk to you or take your money but something is missing at AO spa.
Not at the luxury levels expected in this forum. This is coming from someone who always gets treated well at this hotel.
Most other Tokyo spa hotels put a towel on the shower door or hook for the spa guest after showering. None when I finished showering. I had to rummage wet and cold through their linen closet to find a bath towel and that's a major service failure. I was furious...
Shangri-la Tokyo has a fluffy oversized bath sheet waiting on the towel hook for the guest to use.
They were very apologetic but that cemented their quasi-lux status in my eyes. Just the discount for the poor treatment and missing towel. Rachael McCrory is missed! Her Japanese replacement is missing the extra empathy and service recovery gear.
Verdict?
I would recommend any spa aficionado visit this spa in Tokyo. My bad day was probably a one-off occurrence. It is a hardware masterpiece and a very creative concept that I believe many here would appreciate.
Where?
Andaz Tokyo's AO spa. I think Rachael McCrory did a fabulous job building this spa up from the opening. She's moved on but her works continues to shine. It's an amazing concept and very memorable. Walking in is like walking into an art gallery and the jiyujizai seasonal spa apothecary experience is radically different from their Tokyo competitors.
Type of treatment:
90 minute essential body massage.
Treatment Rooms
Bigger than MO Tokyo and PH Tokyo base treatment rooms. Inferior to Aman in size and hardware.
5 normal rooms and one couple suite with a bath tub. All have natural light and a city view. Interesting fact: all come equipped with outdoor yoga platforms or a small viewing area.
The massage bed was comfortable and the head face pillow using very soft cotton. Plush! The sheets feel very cheap and thin though
Quality of treatment:
Lacking. I had my preferred therapist but she didn't seem to be engaged today. Massages can be great if the therapist is feeling "it" but I guess I caught her on an off day. It wasn't very relaxing. 20% off as compensation (really, becomes 10% because of the service charge)
Facilities
A very nice, but chilly pool with several jacuzzis off to the side. The sauna changing room is too small and fills up with fitness club members. Very limited soaking tub and sauna options.
Waiting/relaxing area
Just one space. It's ok but you can have company if multiple people are having treatments at the same time.
Ambiance
Very modern and art gallery like. You don't think you're in a spa until you go to the treatment rooms.
Products used or available
botanical seasonal Japanese apothecary
Elemental Herbology, Biologique Recherche and a Uji based-local brand called Kitoshina
Spa service levels
Everyone is very nice and kneels down to talk to you or take your money but something is missing at AO spa.
Not at the luxury levels expected in this forum. This is coming from someone who always gets treated well at this hotel.
Most other Tokyo spa hotels put a towel on the shower door or hook for the spa guest after showering. None when I finished showering. I had to rummage wet and cold through their linen closet to find a bath towel and that's a major service failure. I was furious...
Shangri-la Tokyo has a fluffy oversized bath sheet waiting on the towel hook for the guest to use.
They were very apologetic but that cemented their quasi-lux status in my eyes. Just the discount for the poor treatment and missing towel. Rachael McCrory is missed! Her Japanese replacement is missing the extra empathy and service recovery gear.
Verdict?
I would recommend any spa aficionado visit this spa in Tokyo. My bad day was probably a one-off occurrence. It is a hardware masterpiece and a very creative concept that I believe many here would appreciate.
Last edited by Aventine; Jul 12, 2017 at 9:34 am
Jul 12, 2017, 7:58 am
#29
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: Here there and everywhere
Posts: 6,303
Just saw that the UK's Cliveden House Spa is now open. They have British brand Oskia as their 'natural' alternative. I checked the ingredients and found Dehydroacetic Acid, which is a synthetic preservative.
Jul 14, 2017, 1:16 pm
#30
Join Date: Jun 2017
Programs: LHW membership
Posts: 24
We are staying at Cliveden next weekend, very excited to try the new spa.