In a bit of irony, asking Forbes Travel Guide inspectors to list their most memorable spa experiences of the past year proved to be quite stressful.
Between lavish facials in Miami and bathing rituals in Mauritius — all tested by our incognito inspectors, who pose as ordinary guests and pay their own way — so many treatments were worthy of inclusion. But to the team’s credit, it did collectively exhale and come up with the following services that stood out most.
The facial at Faena Hotel Miami Beach’s Tierra Santa Healing House
Miami
“This hyper-customized 60-minute facial was the standout spa experience of my year. My therapist Romina took the time to review my concerns, perform a thorough skin analysis and facial, and thoughtfully provided sample products to take home. The treatment room overlooked the ocean and was spacious and furnished with a relaxing, minimalist design. A few colorful pops provided a soothing atmosphere to fully enjoy the facial.”
The signature facial at L’Auberge de Sedona’s L’Apothecary Spa
Sedona
“Known for its natural healing energy from the area’s vortexes, the spa served as a holistic sanctuary for hotel guests. The treatment was infused with locally sourced ingredients and healing crystals, which enhanced the overall sense of balance and rejuvenation. As a thoughtful touch, the therapists presented a crystal as a departure gift, personally selected to align with my energy. The facial also included personalized advice and natural remedies based on my input, deepening my connection to the holistic philosophy that defines the spa.”
The rituals at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Kyoto
Kyoto
“The spa offered interesting treatments inspired by Kyoto’s culture and essence, such as the Kyoto Bamboo Ritual and Ryokucha Serenity Ritual. The massage and facial featured premium ESPA products, which are known for their luxurious quality and effectiveness. The Kyoto Bamboo Ritual uses locally sourced bamboo and warmed oils to smooth and relax the muscle tensions.”
The hammam at The Spa at Palazzo Versace Macau
Macau
“The Spa at Palazzo Versace Macau notably offers a hammam experience, a rarity in East Asia. The treatment begins with a body scrub performed in a bespoke hammam steam room that’s inspired by the traditional Turkish hammams but is ornately decorated with Italian mosaic tilework. After a rigorous scrub using a blend of sea salt and crushed olive seeds, I was moved into an equally elaborate but less steamy room and treated to an expertly performed massage. The experience was equal parts luxurious and relaxing.”
The body and facial ritual at Evian Spa at Palace Hotel Tokyo
Tokyo
“Evian Spa delivered an authentic Japanese spa experience. I booked the body and facial ritual. I particularly enjoyed the facial, as it used 100% organic Japanese products. It was very gentle on the skin. The therapist used a unique facial massage technique, where she started the lifting from the scalp and slowly moved into the face and neck. It showed a significant lifting result in the end of the facial. The therapist also provided a skin assessment and handed out some samples at the end of the treatment based on her observations.”
The amenities at LUX* ME Spa Grand Baie
Mauritius
“The spa spanned two levels and featured a stunning outdoor pool with a cascading waterfall wall. The downstairs wet facilities included heated benches, a steam room, an ice fountain, hot and cold pools, experiential showers and an ice bucket. The sauna was enhanced with soothing essential oil aromas and creative LED lighting that illuminated the benches. Charcoal-activated water and detox water infused with rosemary and grapefruit were readily available. After treatments, snacks and tea were served, highlighted by a tempered dark chocolate shard with chia seeds and goji berries. A thoughtful touch was the beautifully arranged tray of amenities at the end of the treatment, which included a brush, hair tie and mirror.”
The Indayog Ng Duyan Massage at The Retreat Spa at Okada Manila
Manila
“The Indayog Ng Duyan Massage was memorable as it incorporated traditional steps, such as bamboo leaves placed on the back or a heated herbal compress added while the therapist worked on my lower body. Interesting techniques were also employed, such as massaging while stretching and providing reflexology on the feet. It was the combination of local products and unexpected techniques that created a unique wellness experience.”
The treatment room at LUX* ME Spa at South Ari Atoll
The Maldives
“The treatment room was a notable feature at LUX* ME Spa in the Maldives. The room was set in an overwater villa and featured a glass floor, allowing you to see the sea life underneath during your treatment. It was probably the first time I kept my eyes open for the duration of the massage!”
