Whether to rejuvenate, regroup or relax, spa getaways are the cure to what ails most people: stress. Hotels developers know this, so more of them are trying to transform their properties into retreats. A bona fide spa resort will specialize in a specific area of spa treatments, or at least create a great atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else. Remember, if you're lifting a finger, they're doing it wrong.
If your idea of relaxation involves being submerged in water, Jade Mountain can put you in an open-concept suite, where the fourth wall is replaced with an infinity pool. While you’re taking a contemplative dip, breathe in the view of the adjacent Pitons. In this architectural marvel, you can opt for private spa therapies in your room or book an appointment at the in-house Kai en Ciel studio. The treatments borrow from holistic and Ayurvedic traditions, and full yoga or fitness programs can be arranged during your stay.
Jade Mountain
PO Box 4000, Soufriere
St. Lucia, West Indies
+011-758-459-4000, +758-459-7000 or +758-459-6100
jademountain.com
Few things are more naturally soothing than onsen (Japanese hot springs), and the Hakone region is full of them. To make the best of this richness, all the treatments at the Hyatt’s Izumi Spa use locally sourced onsen-based ingredients. With interiors that put a modern spin on the usually rustic experience, the spa has two hot spring baths, which—despite a full menu of massages, facials and aromatherapy—are the main attraction. It’s recommended to visit the onsen during winter, so you can get the full benefits of the hot-and-cold sensations.
Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa
1320 Gora Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun
Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan 250-0408
+011-81-460-82-2000
hakone.regency.hyatt.com
Overlooking the Mayan Riviera, Ceiba has revamped the Temezcal, an ancient Mexican ceremony not unlike a sauna. The ritual has you stepping inside a terracotta sweat lodge, where volcanic stones and scented herbs are used to purify the mind and body. Ceiba also offers massages that draw on Mayan traditions, like the Top’nikte wrap, the Balsamic rub or the Goddess scrub. Honeymooners should try the couples spa package, which includes some of these treatments. Once you’re done doing the spa thing, you can get on with the beach thing.
Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort
Costera Norte, lote 1 S.M. 10 Mz. 26 C.P. 77580
Puerto Morelos, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, México
877-545-6221
ceibadelmar.com
Austria is known for its music, culture and great skiing, but it’s also starting to gain a reputation as a spa sanctuary. Built on—and in—the Styria hillside, the Rogner is an experiment in freestyle architecture. It also harbors two thermal springs with curative properties and a Dead Sea salt grotto. With the peaceful surroundings, the spa is designed for ultimate wellness. From exfoliating treatments to Ayurvedic massages and sound therapy, the day can’t possibly end without that floating feeling.
Rogner Bad Blumau
A-8283 Bad Blumau 100
Styria, Austria
+011-43-0-3383 or +43-0-5100-0
blumau.com
In Vegas, unrestrained luxury has taken the place of amusement parks and theme hotels. With the trailblazing CityCenter reinventing the wheel, properties like Aria can reflect the more sumptuous side of Sin City. A relative rarity in Las Vegas, natural light plays a starring role in Aria’s spa environment, along with sleek interiors and water gardens. Aria’s seaweed wrap deserves mention, as do the women-only water-based treatments like the Vichy showers and the hydrotherapy ritual. The facilities also house a Shio salt room, heated-stone beds and a fitness center.
Aria Resort & Casino
3730 Las Vegas Boulevard
Las Vegas, Nevada 89158
866-359-7757
arialasvegas.com
