Great hotel spa beauty treatments
By Jennifer Aranoff

In a place known for its decadence, the hotel spas of South Florida strive to set themselves apart by any means possible. Most high-end spas offer the same basic treatments: massages, scrubs, facials, etc. To
separate from the pack, spas must come up with a way to make the overall experience as extravagant as possible while still maintaining a soothing atmosphere in which spa-goers will want to while away many leisurely hours. Miami spas are up to the challenge. The newest, most exciting treatment options in the country are available right here in South Florida, if you know where to look.

Nothing says luxury quite like gemstones, and agua Mondrian Miami spa offers själ products that actually make use of sapphires and pearls and also the precious minerals gold, silver and platinum. Deciding which treatment to try may be as difficult as choosing a favorite gem. (Though diamonds are a girl’s best friend.) The Blue Kashmir-Sapphire Facial is the most exclusive treatment and includes
a pearl enzymatic mask and oil infused with Blue Kashmir Sapphires. The feeling of being treated like a princess is increased by the fanciful décor of the spa itself, appropriately reminiscent of a castle—Sleeping Beauty’s.

Another spa to use the precious metals gold and silver is the Biltmore Spa, though in an entirely different way. The newest wellness treatments at the Biltmore Spa go below the surface of the skin via needles, many of them are gold and silver. The ancient art of acupuncture is combined with not only modern techniques but also topical herbal applications and lifestyle consulting. These are blended together to create signature sessions focused toward each individual’s desire. From smoking, weight loss or stress management to even a golf-specific session,
there is a treatment for everyone. Go for a treatment and stay for a swim in the biggest hotel pool in the country,
a whopping 23,000 squarefeet.

Continuing the “the bigger, the better” trend is Canyon Ranch, the largest wellness spa and fitness center on the East Coast, a staggering 70,000 squarefeet.

The massive spa not only houses an indoor rock-climbing wall but also Aquavana, an extravagant suite featuring a crystal steam room, herbal sauna, foot spa and heated loungers. Those in need of a cooling experience may head to the igloo for a cool breeze of menthol, mint and eucalyptus. Explore Aquavana before or after one of the many available body treatments. For the truly water-obsessed, the rooftop bamboo pool (complete with ocean view) is not to be missed.

Water may be king for most of Southern Florida, but air reigns in the spa in Grove Isle Hotel & Spa. New to the spa is hyperbaric oxygen therapy, enjoyed by such A-listers as Madonna and Eva Longoria. This new oxygenbased facial actually makes skin ready to face life without any down time. Those without Madge’s private number will have to check it out for themselves. Another can’t-miss is the Watsu pool (Watsu = water + Shiatsu).

Float in body temperature water while being supported, stretched and massaged. Kick back and relax in the Spa’s serene atmosphere complete with candlelight and jasminescented air.

For anyone who’s ever wished she could put herself in a time capsule, enter The Palms Hotel & Spa and its hydrotherm TIME Capsule. This futuristic pod HydroCapsule at The Palms, is small enough to be very personal and private yet large enough for both patron and therapist. Light, sound and aroma therapies are built in to complete the experience. After a massage, scrub or other treatment, rather than getting up and walking to the showers, clients stay in the pod which has a built-in showering system (including steam). Who doesn’t want to continue lying down and relaxing after a treatment? One may expect such a progressive spa to be cold and modern in design, but The Palms Spa is bright and full of windows. It takes full advantage of the Miami sunshine.

PRIVILEGED RESIDENTS
On a budget but still craving luxurious pampering? Most spas and hotels in the area offer packages and specials, many in combination with hotel stays. Florida residents are frequently given discounts; so if you have a local ID, it pays to ask. Check the hotel and spa websites or call for the most up-to-date deals.

Other spas to explore:

The Spa at Doral
Doral Golf Resort & Spa
8755 NW 36th Street Miami
305.717.6303
doralresort.com
Highlights:
• Massages are alfresco either by the pool, in the cabana at the Blue Lagoon or in your guest room
• Spa services are still available during renovations, which will be completed in November 2009.

The Ritz Carlton
One Lincoln Road
Miami Beach
786.276.4090
ritzcarlton.com
Highlights:
• Astro Balance Massage individualized based on astrological sign and birth date.
• Divine Derriere "facial" including exfoliation and mask.

Lapis Spa
Fontainebleau Hotel
4441 Collins Avenue
Miami Beach
305.674.4772
fontainebleau.com
Highlights:
• Elements Rain Tunnel a room where assorted cascades of warm or cool water in varying strengths massage the body.
• The Morning After Treatment detox therapy using red seaweed extract, water, body wrap and massage.

The Setai
2001 Collins Avenue
Miami Beach
305.520.6900
setai.com
Highlights:
• Romantic Bathing Ceremonies choose from ceremonies influenced by different countries of the Pacific Rim.
• Guests of the hotel may also enjoy massage and bathing ceremonies in their rooms.

The Standard
Spa Miami Beach
40 Island Avenue
Miami Beach
305.673.1717
standardhotels.com
Highlights:
• Holistic Baths choose from Energizing, Soothing, Hydrating, Sensual, Relaxing or Softening.
• The Standard Spanking buttocks and thigh circulation therapy to firm skin and remove toxins.