All posts in Day Spas

It’s Time for A Spa Retreat! Top Spa Destinations in Canada

by Jenny on July 24, 2012 in Day Spas with 1 Comment

Sparkling Hill Kur Spa

Sparkling Hill is located in the Okanagan Valley. The name refers to the dramatic light reflections from Lake Okanagan which inspired the “crystal architecture” of the resort. Sparkling Hill Resort celebrates whole body health and wellness inside and out. The Kur Spa offers some of the best best traditional European treatments and transformative therapies .

The Briars Resort and Spa

Just an hour away from the hustle and bustle of Toronto sits the Briars on the calming shores of Lake Simcoe. While you are enjoying your soothing spa treatment he can head out to the links for a round of golf. Or together you can hit the lake for a sunset kayak. The Briars is a must add stop to your itinerary for a weekend of relation and recuperation.

 Shizen Spa at Deerhurst Resort

Nothing says summer getaway like a weekend retreat to cottage country. The Shizen Spa at the Deerhurst resort delivers signature treatments in the inspiring and quintessentially Canadian landscape of Muskoka. Inspired by the Japanese word for nature, the Shizen Spa collection brings you results-oriented treatments and proven techniques hand-picked from around the globe.

 Rain Spa at the Place D’Armes

Not all of us are  “one” with nature. Your ideal summer getaway may not be a lakeside spa retreat. For the more urban of us there are some great hotel spa destinations. The Rain Spa at the Place D’Armes is one of these destinations. After wondering the old city of Montreal there is nothing better for your tired feet than their spa pedicure. Complete and utter bliss for your aching legs. If you are on a romantic getaway take it easy one day relax together during a restorative couples massage.

Summer Love’n, Having a Blast…The Top Spas for Summer Romance.

by Jenny on July 19, 2012 in Day Spas with No comments

If you are looking to add a little extra romance to your life this summer head to one of these spas across Canada that offer fantastic couples packages.

Spa Ritual:

At the Spa Ritual in The Ylang-Ylang and Water Lily Couples’ Rooms couples can enjoy side-by-side massage and facial treatments while relaxing together. Both rooms can be combined to accommodate a group of four. Try the cherish together package – your choice of either a Hydrating or Purifying Facial – followed by 60 minute Sabai Relaxation Massages. All couples packages at the Spa Ritual come with complimentary Chocolate-dipped Strawberries and Smoothies served in the Spa Bistro.

Novo Spa

The Couple’s Luxury Suite at Novo has a steam color therapy shower and a private lounge. It is the perfect retreat for any couple looking to rekindle the romance. They have a wide range of couples packages that include, Luxury for Two, Taste of Heaven, Best for Two, United in Yorkville, Massage for Two.

Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Pacific Rim

Surrounded in views of Vancouver’s snow capped majestic mountains The Willow Stream is the perfect place to sit back, relax and take in the natural world around you. In their luxurious spa suites with breathtaking ocean views the Willow Stream knows how to do romance right. Try the Hip Honeymooners package that is composed of Rose petals, Rose oil and Rosehip oil, this experience evokes the feeling of love sensuality, and romance. A side-by-side dry brushing with a Rosehip oil massage application and full body wrap has amazing power. A great way to give or get roses any time of year.

Feeling a little Tense? Head to these Hot Spots in Vancouver for some R + R

by Jenny on July 10, 2012 in Day Spas, Spa Trends with No comments

Try something out of the ordinary on your next spa visit. Eastern based treatments are making a resurgence into the modern spa industry. Here are a couple tantalizing treatments at some amazing Vancouver spa locations that you must try!

Thai Massage at Sabai Thai:

Sabai Thai has three locations on the lower mainland – Coal Harbour, North Vancouver, and West Vancouver, and offers a wide variety of spa services but their signature treatment is the Thai Massage. Thai massage is relatively new to the modern spa world but it is definitely worth checking out if you are looking for some tension release. Thai massage uses passive stretching and gentle pressure along the body’s energy lines to increase flexibility, relieve muscle and joint tension and balance the body’s energy systems. Thai massage is both deeply relaxing and energizing. Thai massage takes place either on a mat on the floor or on a sturdy massage table, and you wear loose fitting clothing during the treatment.

Hammam and Gommage at Miraj Hammam

The hammam is an ancient Turkish bath experience. the Hammam was known as a place of cleansing and healing for both body and soul. This is the essence of Miraj Hammam Spa in Vancouver, Canada’s first Hammam spa. If you are looking for tension release I would suggest getting the hammam, gommage and oriental massage package.  Your spa experience starts with a quick shower and  doning a sarong to  enter the hammam chambers, where you will be cleansed with low mist and intense steam. Reclining on a slab of Jerusalem gold-streaked marble, and sink into a state of bliss as your therapist soothingly massages your entire body with a gommage made from luxuriously authentic black Moroccan soap of similar consistency to honey. She will then rub you with a loofah from head to toe and gently rinse the gommage away. Following this treatment, a robe is provided for your journey on to your Oriental massage. To finish, proceed to the Sultana Lounge where you rest on velvet and silk while savoring Middle Eastern tea and sweet cake.

Yin Yang Harmonizing Massage at Chi Spa at the Shangri-La

Sticking with our theme of eastern traditions for relaxation the next spot on your journey to relaxation should be the Chi Spa. Chi massages and treatments are based on authentic natural healing methods found in traditional well-being practices shared by many Asian cultures. Looking to restore your inner balance? Try the Yin Yang Harmonizing massage. This massage was especially created to harmonize and pleasantly balance the flow of chi from within. Focus is given to specific meridians, releasing tension and restoring peace and harmony.

Where to go to beat the heat? The Top 3 Spas in Montreal to Cool Off.

by Jenny on July 6, 2012 in Day Spas with No comments

With record breaking temperatures all over the east coast we are all looking for a place to relax and cool down. These spa destinations have you covered!

Bota Bota Sur L’eau

Anchored at the Quays of the Old Port of Montreal, Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau offers passengers the healing benefits of a spa coupled with the natural lulling movements of the St Lawrence River. Beat the heat after your spa treatment with their cold showers and baths that provide an excellent view of Montreal.

Bota Bota

Strom Spa Nordique

Strom Spa Nordique is located five minutes from downtown Montreal. On the shores of Lac des Battures, Strøm Nordic Spa offers you an exceptionally beautiful natural setting. Escape from the city heat and enjoy the outdoor whirlpools, thermal and Nordic baths, Finnish saunas, eucalyptus steam bath, thermal and Nordic waterfalls, indoor and outdoor relaxation areas with fireplaces.

Strom Spa Nordique

 

Scandinave Les Bains Vieux Montreal

Scandinave Les Bains Vieux-Montréal is a veritable Eden in the heart of Montreal. A contemporary and authentic environment, the spa promotes privacy and relaxation for a feeling of absolute escape. The ultimate relaxation is enjoyed when the hot and cold baths are coupled with a warm and soothing massage.

Scandinave Les Bains Vieux Montreal

 

Top 3 Spots for a Day of Spa Indulgence in Toronto

by Jenny on July 2, 2012 in Day Spas, Spa Trends with No comments

Last week we talked about where to go for your quick nail care stopover. This week its all about indulgence and luxury. Everybody needs a little me time and if you are going to do it – do it right. If you are in the GTA this is where I would go for that taste of indulgence. With the mercury hitting the 30C’s and no air-conditioning – indulgence might be in my near future.

Shizen Spa:

You can’t go wrong at either of the Shizen downtown locations (the Cosmopolitan or the Pantages). Both spas provide a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of Toronto.  If you are heading to the Cosmo bring your BFF along and enjoy their customized BFF package. For just $165 a person enjoys a customer pedicure, manicure, spa lunch and de stress massage. If you are cruising by the Pantages – tuck in for their shoppers relief package, which includes a Custom Pedicure and Reflexology.

Shizen Cosmopolitan

Novo Spa:

In the heart of Yorkville Novo spa is your stylish and serene destination for relaxation. Get there early for your treatment and enjoy the steam color therapy sauna and tea lounge. For some serious pampering I would select the customized eminence organic facial. These facials are personally designed for you to suit your skin needs and give you exceptional results. Another treatment fav is their spa pedicure that involves an amazing cooling chocolate foot mask!

Novo Spa

The Spa at Windsor Arms

Located in a historic Toronto Hotel the Spa at Windsor Arms boasts luxurious treatments, a pool, steam room, sauna and gym. The Spa at Windsor Arms is the low-key favorite amongst the stars that is why when visiting you must try the VIP package.  The VIP package includes a pedicure, salt glow, darphin deep firming anti aging facial, relaxation massage, manicure and a delicious spa lunch. Walk out of the Windsor looking red carpet ready.

The Spa at Windsor Arms

 

 

The Top Spots to Get A Quick Mani Pedi in Toronto.

by Jenny on June 25, 2012 in Day Spas, Treatments with No comments

If you are looking for a, Quick, clean, easy and inexpensive mani pedi – this list if for you. If you’re envisioning more of a tea sipping, robe wearing and lounging experience check this space later in the week for the top relaxing and indulgent mani/pedis in the city!

Lucy’s Nails:

3065 Dundas Street W. (416) 769-008

This the go to neighborhood spot in the Junction. With amazing staff, great service and the BEST pedicure chairs you cannot go wrong at this location. At $25 they probably also ring in with one of the cheapest mani pedi combos in the city.

Think Pink Spa

646 College St. (647) 351-8896

Think Pink  is an excellent value salon. With a great selection of colors for both regular and shellac manicures this place mixes great service with reasonable prices.  My favorite part of the experience – the hot towel leg wrap. So relaxing! An added bonus –they offer a loyalty card – by 10 treatment s and the 11th is FREE. A mani pedi checks out at $45.

Mani Pedi

1177 Yonge St (416) 924-2828  http://manipedispa.ca/

Mani Pedi is tucked inside an old folks’ condominium building right at Summerhill Station.  This place is clean, sleek and very comfortable. A testament to their price point and their quality of service is the fact that this place is always busy. Despite the steady flow of customers you never have to wait to long to get into a chair. They have a great selection of O.P.I. polishes and a manicure/pedicure will run you  $35. They accept cash, credit cards,  and debit.

Tina Five Star Nails

1924 Queen Street E (416) 699-9939
At Pape and Danforth, Tina’s offers a $15 manicure, $25 pedicure, and $35 for both.

Cozy Nails

3288 Yonge St (416) 482-5566 http://www.cozynails.com

The only thing I NEED to say about this location is that they have “Free Smoothies”. Once you get settled into your mani/pedi chair you offered a free beverage to enjoy during your service. From the 5 page menu I always side with a smoothie, though I have heard great things about the ginger tea.. If you love the little extra frills – this place is for you.  Mani/pedi – $40.

If your favorite nail place didn’t make the list. Tell us about it!

Top 5 Eco Friendly Spas in Canada

by Jenny on June 21, 2012 in Day Spas, going green with 2 Comments

The following eco friendly spas have made a commitment to excellence in both meeting the highest level of service to their guests but also to mitigating their impact on the environment while doing so.

Spa Eastman

The Spa Eastman has won the prestigious Phenix 2008 in Sustainable development and have achieved the highest level of performance in Recyc-Quebec “Ici on recycle!” program. They recycle 95.7% of their waste products. The awards celebrate the spas fundamental values towards sustainable development and eco friendly business practices. The property has a rule of thumb to guide its actions called 3NJ (naked, near, natural and just), that is to say, products are chosen based on the least amount of packaging and processing possible, organic ingredients, purchased locally and from businesses that respect their workers and the environment.

Willow Stream Spa at The Fairmont Banff Springs

The Fairmont Banff Springs in beautiful Banff National Park in Alberta provides top rate services and modern amenities to their guests. However, what makes them special is that they strive to do all this in an environmentally friendly way. Their goal is to preserve their beautiful natural resources for future generations to enjoy. This 5-Key Eco-Rated Hotel and spa derives half of its energy from green sources such as wind and river power and monitors and minimizes its impact on the environment and wildlife.

Infinima Wellness Spa & Beauty

Infinima Wellness Spa & Beautyis a spa that has been awarded prestigious prizes, such as Best New “Green” Day Spa in Canada for 2009. The owners of the spa have made a point of introducing cutting edge “green” practices and policies. Some of these changes include low energy-consuming LED lighting system, fair-trade, paraben-free products used for their treatments and a dynamic light control system

The Spa Ritual

The Spa Ritual, a 7,000-square-foot destination/day spa hybrid, was one of the founding members of the Green Spa Network.. The greening attitude at this location starts with each employee. The Spa even has a Green Committee that meets monthly to discuss new initiatives that can increase the spas sustainability commitments.

Spa Scandinave

With locations across the country the Scandinave spas put the utmost importance towards environmental sustainability. The spa tries to incorporate eco friendly practices into all of their daily activities, such as, operating a water system which pulls heat out of the cold plunge pools and then redistributes it into the hot plunges to save energy. They also offer reusable water bottles limiting the need for plastic. Additionally, staff members at Le Scandinave wear eco friendly uniforms made from the most sustainable of fibers. These practices and others ensure that Le Scandinave retains a tiny carbon footprint while providing top-notch spa services.

If you are looking for an eco spa in your area here are some tips on how to find one.

  1. Look for spas dedicated to conserving water and energy
  2. Ask if a spa uses non-toxic products:
  3. Check out the facilties for green amenities:
  4. Inquire about the spa’s overall philosophy

The Most Relaxing Spas in the World!

by Jenny on October 20, 2010 in Day Spas with No comments

Are you tired of the hectic pace that living in the fast lane delivers day in and day out? Our friends at journeyPod have hand picked some of the most qualified massage therapists and the most comfortable accommodations to help you enjoy life’s luxurious moments. Drum roll please…and the top  5 are:

1. Chiang Mai (Four Seasons Resort, Thailand) – Chosen as the “World’s Best Spa” by Conde Nast Traveler, this exotic destination will help recapture the lost feeling of youthfulness within the walls and beautiful outdoor facility of this magical spa.

2. Como Shambhala Retreat (Uma Paro, Bhutan) – Recharge your inner power while getting spoiled at this prestigious spa located just a short hop from Bangkok, Calcutta, Delhi or Kathmandu.

3. Spa at Elbow Beach (Bermuda) Ahhh relaxation. Bermuda’s soft pink sand and fresh sea air. After having just experienced “nirvana” at the Spa at Elbow Beach – life simply could not get any better.

4. Kinan Spa at Maroma Resort (Riviera Maya – Mexico) - Voted best beach resort in the entire Caribbean by The Travel Channel, this place is amazing in every way.

5. Mii Amo (Enchantment Resort – Sedona, Arizona) – Voted #1 by Travel and Leisure Readers in 2006, Mii Amo takes its name from the Native American word for journey – which is exactly where you’re going with a visit here.

Read on to find out who made journeyPod’s list for The Most Relaxing Spas in the World

Check out journeyPod out on Twitter and Facebook

Its Time to Celebrate our DADS!

by Jenny on June 15, 2010 in Day Spas, Father's Day, Spa Gift Certificates with No comments

Forget Mothers Day – Its time to take DAD to the Spa!

  • Engraved Pen? Been there…√
  • Photo Album? Gave it to him last year…√
  • #1 Dad Coffee Mug? I think he has 3 now…√

Why not take the plunge with a refreshing new idea this year… Get Dad a WaySpa.com gift certificate or a treatment voucher so he can unwind and relax at the spa!

Dads need a break too! Today’s dads work grueling schedules and spend their weekends fixing up the house and looking after their kids – they too need some time to unwind and relax. Put away your preconceived notions of the spa. Disregard your images of frou frou bathrobes, bubbling brook and bird song music, and rose petal lotion. There are many spas that provide a male friendly environment for those dads who haven’t fully released their inner metrosexual! Gender-neutral spas are popping up in every neighborhood and dad won’t be alone in the spa -35% of Spa goers are in fact men!

What Treatment is right for Dad:

Hot Towel Shave:

There is nothing better than a traditional hot towel shave with a straight razor. There is also nothing more manly than bravely sitting there while someone holds a sharp razor to your neck. Dad will not only walk away with the smoothest face he’s had in years he’ll also be feeling relaxed and invigorated ready to take on the day!

Deep Tissue Massage:

For those dads who have spent the weekend running around the field, fixing up the car, or cleaning out the garage a deep tissue “sports” massage is an excellent manly option for father’s day. Deep tissue massage is designed to relieve severe tension in the muscle. If deep tissue isn’t up his alley then – Swedish, Reflexology or a hot stone massages are also excellent options.

Spa Day:

Dad can spend the day relaxing in the steam room, sauna, and hot tubs and come out with pedicured feet, a smooth face and a funky new haircut!

Manicures and Pedicures:

Manicures and pedicures are very popular men’s treatments. Give dad the opportunity to get his hands business ready – as a well-manicured man is a symbol of success! Dad can even sip on a Gin and Tonic while his feet soak in a warm bath!

Men’s Facial:

These facials are designed to meet the specific skin care needs of a man and they use scents and lotions that appeal to a man’s senses.

A Mani, Pedi and Yoga????

by Jenny on June 15, 2010 in Day Spas, Spa Trends, Treatments with No comments

Although yoga has been around for centuries it is only in the last 2 decades that it has really become popular. With yoga studios popping up on every street corner, it seems like everyone is practicing yoga these days. With yoga’s emphasis on the holistic nature of health – mind, body and spirit – it is natural that spas around the world have come to embrace the practice of yoga and incorporate it into their services. Similar to many spa treatments, yoga has both physical and mental benefits. Physically, yoga stretches and strengthens the body through a series of poses. Mentally, yoga calms the mind by encouraging the yoga practitioner to observe one’s thoughts without attachment or judgment and remain in the moment. Best of all, the feeling of contentment and bliss after a yoga class is one that extends into everyday life spreading peace into those busy, fast-paced days. Check out WaySpa.com for your local spa where you can practice yoga and then treat your sore muscles to a relaxing hot stone massage.