| |
|
|
|
January 10th, 2012
 Entrance to the Aji Spa By Linda Kissam
I’ve been to many spas, but it’s the ones that offer their own special twist that makes a memorable experience. Spa junkies everywhere should be writing the following name down on a piece of paper … The Aji Spa at Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa, in Phoenix, Arizona. It offers the world’s most authentic Native American spa services. If they sold spa condos there, I’d be interested, that is how good it is.
Aji, means “Sanctuary” in the Pima language. It takes its name from the nearby Aji Mountain located on the Gila River Indian Community which was once a sanctuary where women and children would go in times of war. Aji Mountain is still honored as one of the Community’s most sacred treasures and fittingly, Aji Spa is where sacred Pima and Maricopa traditions are still practiced and shared.
 Jacuzzi at the Aji Spa The spa is about a five minute leisurely walk from the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa (where I was staying – lovely rooms and views) , down a flat, winding lake side path. There’s something about that brief nature walk that sets the mood and anticipation for something very special to come.
A brief walk and a deep breath later, the spa welcomes me within a natural setting. The soothing scents surround me as soon as I walk in the door. The ancient Pima and Maricopa cultures are showcased throughout the spa in design elements, artwork, architecture and shared legends. No hurrying around here; just a lovely young woman greeting me and introducing me to my spa guide who takes me to the ready rooms.
The women’s locker room is striking. A private indoor and outdoor Jacuzzi are there when I am ready to imbibe. My guide shows me around, gives me a big fluffy robe and slippers, mentions the many free amenities available to me (scented lemon water to drink, creams, lotions, hair dryer, showers, tooth brush, etc). I am in heaven.
 Aji Spa Nature Walk We move on to the women’s quiet room which provides a couple of comfy chairs surrounded in native décor creating a centering, calming setting. This is a place to wait in privacy for upcoming services if I like, or I can go to a different waiting room for both men and women. Teas, lemon water, snacks and a muted décor call to me to rest, relax and rejuvenate, as I gaze out to a swimming pool framed by mountains. If this was all I did, I would have been happy.
I hear my name being called… so sweetly, so caring. Time for my 50 minute facial (Wihosha). I am impressed with the Spa’s use of the exclusive ARCONA Skin Care Line known for its high quality, luxury formulations and their unequalled ability to make a positive change to the skin through ingredients such as enzymes, antioxidants and amino. We have a brief talk about my skin type and my expectations and the treatment begins. I am filled with bliss.
I head back to the locker room refreshed and glowing. I linger a bit more in the communal room for lemon water and a look at other services I might try: Massage (Thagimun), Body Wraps (Hon), Salon Services Fitness & Recreation, and Exfoliating Body Treatments (Chipich) all call my name for another day.
On my way out of the spa I stop in the gift shop for some major retail therapy. I find the prices reasonable and my credit card able. I head over to the Aji Café. I see they offer a menu with healthy lunch options prepared on site by the Aji Café Chef under titles such as Replenish, Restore, Refresh. I order the Hand Picked Jumbo Crab Meat & Watermelon Salad (click for recipe) ($16) and The New Dawn Aji Spa Signature Cocktail: A refreshing blend of Elderflower Liquor, Riesling, Pineapple and Cranberry Juice, finished with a splash of Champagne ($12). Ahhh yes, ending a true experience with a refreshing treat. Does life get any better?
Tags: Aji Spa Arizona, Linda Kissam, Spa Tours
Posted in Spa Tours | No Comments »
November 10th, 2011
By Norman E. Hill, CityRoom Contributor
 Maralyn and I have been to Sedona several times. During each trip, we’ve been struck by the majestic beauty of the red rock formations. When we visited the Enchantment Resort and Spa on Sedona’s edge, I felt as if I were literally a part of these formations. This resort is located so near to the rock overhangs that, seemingly, I was absorbed by them.
My own immediate objective for our visit was to experience a facial treatment at Enchantment’s Miiamo Spa. This was a noteworthy first type of treatment for me. Miiamo refers to itself as a destination spa, and the description is wholly justified. My treatment was labeled as a “Journeyman’s Facial,” with incredibly detailed steps.
 A young woman named Dawn performed the treatment, she was knowledgeable and articulate about all its phases.
In summary form, nine steps were involved: encompassing cleansing, conditioning, serum applications, eye care, AHA applications, mask use, moisturizing, sunning, and what was called “up care.”
Step 1: Cleansing, involved use of a clarisonic pro brush, applying Oat Facial Polish. For males, this included a Clarifying Facial Wash, a form of body soap.
Step 2: Conditioning, called for a Lavender Honey Balancing Mist, also useful for subsequent after-shave applications.
Step 3: Serums, used a Carrot Seed Soothing Serum.
Step 4: Eye Care, was for twice daily applications of Vitamin K Brightening Eye Serum.
Step 5: AHA, was intended to be applied as directed. A form of “Mank Gel” was used by Dawn.
Step 6: Masks, could be labeled as “peels.” Here, a Sweet Cherry Brightening Enzyme Peel was the key to the masking process.
Step 7: Moisturizing, involved a male-only product known as a Daily Defense Moisturizer.
Step 8: Sunning, was intended for daily application and protection against the sun. The particular product was Lavender Protective Moisturizer.
Step 9: Up Care, for application as needed, was an Eminence product, Up Balm.
As a supplement to the nine steps, Dawn recommended an additional form of “Age Defense.”
For me, this Journeyman’s Facial for men was a new and very refreshing experience. When I agreed to start this journey into discovering spas, I had no idea I’d enjoy it. If you had asked me before the facial, I would have never imagined there would be so many steps. Yet, each one had a purpose and was relaxing. I hope to try it again, on a future visit to the beautiful Enchantment Resort and Spa.
Norman E. Hill is a freelance writer and member of IFWTWA. He focuses on travel, history, culture, and all it encompasses. He regularly writes business articles.
Tags: CityRoom Travel, CityRoom Wellness, Norm Hill, Spa Tours
Posted in Spa Tours | No Comments »
August 30th, 2011
Willow Stream Spas and Spa Partner Kerstin Florian introduce highly-developed Lifting Facial treatments…think of this new approach to anti-aging as “exercise for the face.”
Dante may have given vanity a bad name, but I digress — I want my skin to continue to look impossibly fresh as I age. More accurately, I want to reverse the aging process. And as my knowledge of how to anti-age continues to increase, so does my desire to achieve this through new technology in spa treatments. I am not talking about plastic surgery. In fact, I am a devout proponent of time – honored healing traditions — and now that beauty experts are converging natural methods with sophisticated technology, I can satisfy my desire for modern innovation while keeping true to my mantra: “[anti-]age gracefully.”
 The Willow Stream Spa (the award-winning signature spa brand of the Fairmont Hotels & Resorts) is teaming up with Spa partner Kerstin Florian International to introduce a series of age-management Lifting Facials utilizing European style spa products and authentic, been-around-for-centuries, therapy techniques. Visible results are immediate, the relaxing and sensorial experience palpable…perfect for a 21st century busy-body like me. Bye-bye aging, “see-ya-later” fine lines. Hello immediate lifting and firming, restored dermal density, and increased collagen growth.
“Willow Stream Spas are all about energy – living with abundant energy and offering energy-enhancing treatments that promote a healthy well-being,” says Anne McCall Wilson Vice President Spas, Fairmont Raffles Hotels International. “With our spa partner Kerstin Florian, we are able to address the aging process providing a natural, effective treatment to re-energize the skin.”
 Red LED Spectrum Light The Technologies
This non-invasive, super-relaxing treatment utilizes three high-performance energy technologies in three phases.
- Red LED Spectrum Light: energizing and repairing cells, while promoting collagen production.
- Impulsed MicroCurrent: re-educating muscle tissue, redefining facial contour, and improving elasticity by stimulating DNA regeneration.
- Transdermal Delivery: infusing essential nutrients that penetrate deep into the gentle layers of the skin.
The Products
The “Correcting and Essentials Skincare Line” was created specifically to address a variety of sneaky factors that make us look less than radiant, including: sensitivity, uneven skin color, fine lines, loss of elasticity, hyperpigmentation, dull or dry patches, clogged or enlarged pores, blackheads and acne scarring. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and glycolic acid, Kerstin Florian products are designed to treat, repair and refine the skin from the very first use. Products used in every service are customized to suit your complexion.
The Treatments
Best results occur with a series of three, six, or nine treatments, but are noticeable after one visit.
Lift and Tone Facial
Energize and transform skin with this high performance treatment that includes an exfoliating multi-acid peel for the face, neck and décolleté. The skin tightening treatment dedicates 40-minutes of Red LED Light, Impulse Micro-Current and Transdermal Delivery. Red LED Light and Impulse Micro-Current help cells function at a younger level, accelerate cell repair, re-educate muscle tone for a more lifted appearance and trigger DNA regeneration. The treatment concludes with the infusion of essential nutrients into the skin with cutting edge Transdermal Delivery technology. $179/60-minutes
Ultra Lift Facial
An upgrade to the Lift and Tone Facial, this tightening and transforming treatment dedicates 60-minutes of Red LED Light, Impulse Micro-Current and Transdermal Delivery focusing on areas of concern. The treatment concludes with the application of Biomarine Matrix Sheet for enhanced delivery of minerals and vitamins to revitalize and nourish the skin. Recommended for mature skin. $269/90-minutes
UpLift enhancements can be added to any Willow Stream Spa facial treatment. The 30-minute upgrades at $49 each include: Express Eyes, Express Skin Clarity, Express Lift and Express Lips.
“Willow Stream Spas are all about energy – living with abundant energy and offering energy-enhancing treatments that promote a healthy well-being,” says Anne McCall Wilson Vice President Spas, Fairmont Raffles Hotels International. “With our spa partner Kerstin Florian, we are able to address the aging process providing a natural, effective treatment to re-energize the skin.”
Where to Find It
Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess in Arizona
In the Mean Time, Let’s Socialize!
Follow the Beauty on Facebook
Tweet with Willow Stream
 ABOUT WILLOW STREAM SPAS
Launched in 2001, Willow Stream Spas is the award-winning signature spa brand of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts. Located in some of the most beautiful places in the world, each of the Willow Stream Spas draw on the nature, essence and energy of its surroundings – from the desert, the mountains, the sea or the pulse of a cityscape – and all offer Fairmont’s unique brand of luxury and outstanding service. Coupled with authentic spa experiences and a place to escape for both solitude and socializing, Willow Stream Spas simply make you feel fantastic. From the sun washed stone mountains in Scottsdale, Arizona to the vibrant city of Shanghai, Willow Stream Spas inspire living with abundant energy. For more information and all Willow Stream Spa locations, please call 1-800-441-1414 or visit willowstream.com
ABOUT THE FAIRMONT SCOTTSDALE PRINCESS
Set against the backdrop of Arizona’s McDowell Mountains, the AAA Five-Diamond Fairmont Scottsdale Princess reflects its Southwestern setting with Spanish colonial-style architecture, expansive plazas and lush, flower-filled gardens. The resort features 649 oversized guest rooms, including 69 new Fairmont Gold rooms and suites, five heated swimming pools, the luxurious 44,000 square-foot Willow Stream – The Spa at Fairmont, the new John Austin Center for Tennis and championship golf at the adjacent TPC of Scottsdale. Dining options include BOURBON STEAK, a AAA Four-Diamond steakhouse by the acclaimed Michael Mina; modern Mexican cuisine at La Hacienda by Richard Sandoval; LV Bistro, serving favorites for the whole family and seafood at The Grill, with stunning views overlooking the 18th green at the TPC of Scottsdale Stadium Course. Stone Rose, a contemporary bar and lounge presented by nightlife entrepreneurs Rande Gerber and Scott Gerber, is the spot for cocktails in Princess Plaza.
By: Stefanie Payne , Executive Editor, Writer & Designer CityRoom
Tags: AntiAging Spas, CityRoom Beauty, Fairmonty Scottsdale Princess, Stefanie Payne Articles, Willow Stream Spas Scottsdale
Posted in Spa Tours | No Comments »
August 1st, 2011
By: Jule Guaglardi, for JustLuxe.com
I don’t think I will ever forget the look on my husband’s face as the scene came into focus. The brilliant turquoise clarity of the water, and the topography of the land and surrounding islands were like nothing we had ever seen; sea life teeming just beneath the surface of the ocean and the luxuriously enchanting over-water bungalows that seemed to be part of the natural landscape. It was a combination of sheer disbelief accompanied by uncontrollable delight.
 Bora Bora Lagoons (Photo Courtesy of Bora Bora Lagoon Resort) Lost, and yet found in the Pacific Ocean’s eastern wing, resting within the Leeward Society Islands, gorgeous Bora Bora reigns supreme and untouchable in its effortless perfection. The jewel-like island beckons to lovers and island enthusiasts from her position in the stunning necklace that makes up the Tahitian island chain.
As we disembarked, we heard a lovely word, “Laorana,” the traditional Tahitian greeting accompanied by a warm smile and a gentle helping hand that never seemed to leave us throughout the journey. Our destination was the Bora Bora Lagoon Resort & Spa, a superb representative of the Orient Express Collection of hotels, “an operation known for unparalleled commitment to luxurious accommodations, personalized service, and award winning cuisine.”
 Set apart from all of the other properties on Bora Bora and located on Motu Toopua (a much smaller island), the Bora Bora Lagoon Resort & Spa is a haven of luxury and tranquility unto itself, raising the bar on outstanding service despite its limited access to the outside world.
At the crest of Motu Toopua’s tallest hill is Hiro’s bell stone formation, an archeological treasure that rang out during religious ceremonies of years gone by. Today, despite the presence of the resort, Motu Toopua retains the sensibility of its sacred past; owned only by a limited number of local families, almost no one lives on the island. No roads have been carved, and the resort is connected to the main island only for the purposes of electricity to carry water to the hotel. All else remains untouched.
Want a complete Travel Quote including airfare, special hotel rates and FREE upgrades? Contact our Travel Specialist today! The 76 guest bungalows exude the natural beauty afforded throughout the region, with hardwood floors, bamboo, pandanau roofing, open-beam ceilings, tiki statues, and South Pacific-inspired fabrics. However Polynesian in its appearance, the property still maintains the little luxuries many of their guests prefer, such as internet access, air conditioning, an outrageously comfortable king-size bed, in-house DVD players, hair dryers, and so on. And although I am more of a “when in Rome” kind of girl myself, it’s nice to know the amenities are there for those who seek them.
 The over-water bungalows were designed with our curiosity in mind, boasting glass-top coffee tables for fish viewing and feeding. We weren’t in our room for ten minutes before my husband vanished and then re-appeared from below to entertain me, along with a few scaly friends. The glass-top tables are an amazing touch, a constant reminder of where you are in the world. But the truth is, the views are amazing from everywhere. No matter where you look, you’ll find the most incredible shade of turquoise, fascinating sea creatures, and a collection of islands that defy any normal land topography you’ve ever seen.
The food here is outstanding: the Otemanu Restaurant is the culinary highlight of the resort. Enormous windows framing exceptional views of Mt. Otemanu and the engaging blue waters of the lagoon are the backdrop to this tantalizing culinary experience. Showcasing the chef’s take on local cuisine, the dishes are designed to dazzle the most discerning palate.
 One of my favorite components to this great escape is the resort’s Maru tree-top spa, which opened in 2004, the only one of its kind in Bora Bora. The spa features six treatment rooms (four water front) and two massage rooms built into almost-mythic Banyan trees. The Tahitian-based spa treatments offered at Maru use herbs and remedies that have been practiced in the South Pacific for hundreds of years. This is truly a magnificent place— a life-altering experience affording your body and mind the opportunity to let go and believe again, like you did perhaps when you were a child, in paradise, Eden, and the idea that fairy tales can actually come true.
Other, perhaps less wondrous, activities on and around the property include tennis, swimming, fitness, volleyball, and billiards. Next are the water sports, such as snorkeling, windsurfing, Hobie cats, canoeing, and kayaking, all of which are a must. You also have the option, as we did, to participate in something a little more adventurous, like swimming with sharks. Here, in Bora Bora, you are reminded in moments like this that there is an incredible co-existence between man and creature— a natural synergy that is not only needed but embraced in a truly remarkable manner.
The Tahitian islands are about 11 hours from New York on non-stop service from JFK Airport. It may sound like a fairly arduous flight, but it’s well worth the effort!
-
Tags: Bora Bora Lagoon Resort, CityRoom Destinations, JustLuxe, Tropical Vacations
Posted in Spa Tours | No Comments »
July 22nd, 2011
By Kurt Winner and Michelle Winner
The steak house dinner was not going to cut it this year and “Herself” was tired of the Portland, Oregon airport after limping home from yet another press trip. I had to find a special place take my wife for our 20th anniversary that was not too far away. Triumphantly, I announced to her that we were going to wine country in the Willamette Valley.
 Interior of the Allison (Credit: Seattle-based firm GGLO, LLC.) Debuting in 2009 and situated on 35 acres, this gold certified LEED complex is ultra-special in every respect. The owners, seventh generation Oregonians took great care to situate the building into the environment. Building green and utilizing local contractors, craftspeople and artisans, the Austin family created their own mini- economy in the area when times were tough. The hotel continues to generate jobs and support local workers. The Inn’s immense appeal according to Managing Director Pierre Zreik is not only to the independent traveler, “ We do a large part of our business as corporate incentive travel, corporate retreats and meetings. Intel and Nike love to come. Another facet is the wine groups. Since 1994 the number of wineries has increased from 75 to over 200 in the valley. The Oregon traveler makes up 48% of our business followed by California and Washington. “ All an easy flight or a drivable distance.
Our mid-day drive was easy; in just over an hour we arrived at the Allison Inn’s wood- beamed porte cochere. “Her Majesty” was happy with my choice because she smiled at the valet as he opened her door. She smiled again when she saw the house-made chocolate truffles Mr. Zreik had left in our room.
The Allison embodies “Northwest Elegance” with massive circular stairway, lustrous woods, natural vistas and expanses of stone and glass used throughout the private and pubic spaces. Simple materials and skillful design invoke a sense of well-being and communion with nature. Relevant artwork in multiple mediums reflect the areas wineries, farms and natural world. Take your own tour. In- room you can grab a self-guide book “The Art of The Allison Collection” describing the art and artist’s inspiration.
 Allison Executive Chef Jin (Credit: John Valls Photography) A tub for two was a most inspiring element in our “standard” room. I’d suggest that the room is a mini-suite, offering a small dining table for a romantic repast, a lounging area and a comfy bedroom with lanai. Owner Mrs. Joan Austin insisted on thoughtful built -in touches like the pull out table adjacent to the window seat so you can sit with your wine and enjoy the view to the vines growing on the hill.
The Allison, dedicated to well-being has saunas, steam baths, indoor pool, and a state-of-the art fitness room. Design in the Spa embraces the element of water in twelve treatment rooms and the private lounge areas. Here you don’t only drink your Pinot. “The Princess” was thrilled to learn that “Pinot Therapy” is available via the Divine Wine Facial or grape seed scrubs. For couples, duo massages or a “Candlelight and Roses” bath are offered.
After my steam, I looked forward to our dinner at Jory the Allison’s signature restaurant headed up by stellar Executive Chef Sunny Jin. At 6000 square feet, the restaurant seats 100 and has a chef’s table. The focus is fresh from their garden and local farms enjoined with wine creating a most casually elegant experience.
“Mon Marie, “ fully relaxed from her afternoon at the Spa looked radiant as she floated on my arm to a comfortable booth. Restaurant manager Tom Bean introduced himself and offered us a glass of 2008 Dick Shea Estate Pinot Noir from the Ribbon Ridge area of Dundee, here in the Willamette Valley. As we sipped this very complex wine and perused the wine list I told Tom that I thought he’d carry mainly Oregon wines. He answered, “Jory has over 800 labels of wine to offer from around the world. This is the local winemakers‘ living room. They want to sample wines from other countries, after all, they’re always trying each others wines like Pinots, Syrahs etc from Oregon and Washington state”.
..
I opted for the house made charcuterie to open. I realized too late that it was enough for two, but I had no problem enjoying most of it. “She” ordered Fresh Manila Clams with Andouille and a Chardonnay-Meyer Lemon Cream Crostini and proclaimed it “ tart, buttery and very fresh” between bites. I was busy trying to eat the gargantuan plate of pork rillettes, salumi, and pickled vegetables but fresh Alaskan Halibut waits for no man, so I surrendered to my fish. Savoring her Browned Gnocchi, with Lobster and Fresh Spring Peas “mia moglie“ told me she appreciated the light hand in the kitchen that allowed the food itself to shine.“
For dessert we sampled a local small production Privé Pinot Noir Port made by Tina and Mark Hammond right up the hill from the Allison. Rich ruby-red and silky smooth, it is one of Tom‘s favorites and a perfect match for the rich dark chocolate torte we shared. After the fist bite of chocolate my wife gave me another smile and this time, a kiss!
…
…
Kurt Winner is a Lifestyle Journalist and Photographer and a member of the IFWTWA. He writes from the Mt. Hood area near Portland, Oregon.
Michelle Winner is a regular contributor to CityRoom, and writes for Luxury, Spa, Culinary and corporate incentive travel markets . She writes as the “Culinary Traveler” and is Vice President of the IFWTWA.
…
Tags: Allison Inn and Spa Oregon, Kurt Winner Contributor, Michelle M. Winner IFWTWA, Spa Tours Worldwide
Posted in Spa Tours | No Comments »
|
|
|
