Where When How — Summer 2012
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Island Spas: A Guide to Indulgance
The SPA at THE REGENT PALMS
Normally wheN I’m assIgNed to do aN excursIoN story It meaNs a boat rIde, some scuba dIvINg or the occasIoNal overhead adveNture vIa helIcopter or parasaIl. For our summer issue, though, I was more than a little pleased to have been told I’d be spending the day at The Regent Palms spa, to experience their re-launch and new product line. It’s a dirty job, but…
I’m no stranger to The Regent Spa, I think you’d be hard-pressed to find a woman who lives on this island who hasn’t enjoyed the Spa at least once. It’s a truly stunning location. It’s on the resort property at The Regent Palms, but in a separate building, set away from the bustle of the main resort. The spa covers one acre and the beautifully designed award winning spa buildings are over 25,000 square feet. When you arrive for your appointment you enter a courtyard, on your right you will find the Spa shop, where you check in for your treatment. You’ll then be escorted even further into the courtyard to the building that houses the beautiful locker rooms, showers and changing space.
Once you’re cozied up in one of the amazingly comfortable (and surprisingly flattering) robes, you can take up a lounge chair by the reflecting pool to await your therapist. I always think of the Taj Mahal when I see the long reflecting pool bordered by water features and the individual treatment rooms on either side. The lounge chairs are under cover to protect you from the sun, and keep you nice and cool while you relax. It’s very peaceful, and can be made private, if you like, with the use of hanging curtains.
I arrived for my appointment quite early, so I could really take advantage of this time. From the moment you enter the Spa courtyard, you are gradually separated from the anxieties of ‘real life’. By the time you are contemplating the reflecting pool, everything outside will be a dim memory. When Janice came to collect me, I had nearly achieved enlightenment and had solved several of the world’s biggest problems. Sadly, these answers were soon to be lost in the soothing mist of the Zareeba.
The 90-minute Zareeba treatment is a locally-inspired cleansing and detoxification ritual for the whole body. You’re seated in an enclosure, much like a small sauna, with a cauldron of boiling water, thick with herbs. You’re encouraged to stir the mixture, which will increase the steam and the soothing aromas. The action of stirring can become quite meditative, and is part of the entire experience. After 20 minutes you’ll be treated to a cooling wrap, to complete the detoxification, and then finally to a total body massage, which can be as light as a relaxation massage, or a more therapeutic deeper massage. I don’t know if it was Janice’s skill or the Zareeba treatment, but the massage nearly eliminated my ability to think, I became a lump of blissed-out jelly, which is a welcome relief to an overly analytical worrier like myself.
In between treatments, I take a break for lunch, which is a beautifully executed symphony of flavours that perfectly complement one another, and my day so far, culminating with a sweet crème brulee - a personal favourite.
I was really looking forward to my post-lunch facial. Like many people who live in the islands, I’m guilty of not using enough sunscreen or drinking enough water. Now that I’m “ahem!” years old, I’m learning to take better care of my skin and part of that routine is to get a facial every month or so. The Regent Palms Spa, as part of the re-launch, has taken on a new product line, Sothys from Paris. During the training phase, Sothys sent in their own trainers to work with the therapists at The Regent Palms Spa; this means the team here is as well trained as any therapist in a Sothys spa in New York or Paris.
While you’re visiting Providenciales, don’t miss out on an opportunity to visit an award-winning spa, featuring world-class products and therapists, and scrumptious meals. You’ll come away feeling a little bit more philosophical, a little bit healthier, and a lot more relaxed. If you get a Sothys facial, you’ll also look a little younger, and isn’t that priceless?
INSIDER TIP:
Whenever I book two treatments I do my best to split them with an hour break in between so I can really enjoy this peaceful retreat. If you like, you can order lunch or simply enjoy a cool drink. Sometimes I read, but occasionally I take the time to just zen out and contemplate life, the universe and everything.
Spa Tropique
What sets Spa Tropique apart from other spas on island?
The biggest thing that sets us apart is that we are independently owned. This allows us the incredible freedom to be free thinkers. Many spas around the world have become very cookie-cutter in both their experience with the guest and their aesthetic. Most spa companies order all their supplies from the same spa catalogs. Because Spa Tropique is independent and able to operate freely, we find vendors from all over the world. We have the luxury of being able to pull in new products and try new techniques with a speed that other spa companies just don’t have, as they usually need to go through a chain of command and approval from the ‘head’ office. At Spa Tropique, I’m the head office!
Being independent allows us the ability change our menu of services and adapt our services in a much quicker time frame. So, as those changes are occurring in the market, they are occurring at Spa Tropique. We also have a full-service mobile company, Spa Tropique Mobile, where we come to you! Our full menu of services can be adapted for house calls. It’s quite decadent and very popular. The therapists come with everything to help you relax: candles, iPods, tables, aromatherapy scents…and of course, their wonderful touch.
Tell me about a signature treatment you feel is unique and you wish all your guests would try?
I love the KooKoo for Coconuts. It’s so ‘islandy!’ (And awesome for your skin.) Coconut Oil is especially useful in fighting free-radicals, as it is unrefined and hasn't been stripped of any of its natural components through the refining process. And it’s heavenly aroma has been proven to promote rest.
Kiwis are rich in vitamin E and Vitamin C. Vitamin E is commonly associated with good, healthy, and fabulously smooth skin. This vitamin does a great deal to heal and replenish your skin. Vitamin C helps maintain the collagen level in your body and therefore makes your skin much more firm, strong, smooth, and supple. And Vitamin C is an incredibly strong anti-oxidant.
What product lines do you use and promote?
I very much believe in Pevonia for their facial and body Treatment lines. They are 100% plant based and believe in the philosophy that the most effective skincare ingredients can be found in the safest source on earth, in nature. Mother Nature is truly the best spa provider! For our retail clients, we carry many different retail lines that are sourced from different companies all over the world. I try and support companies whose beliefs are in line with ours: all natural, environmentally friendly and they must perform some sort of charitable contribution whether it be time, training or money.
SPA TROPIQUE LOCATIONS:
Ocean Club East, Ocean Club West, The Sands at Grace Bay, Windsong Resort, West Bay Club, The Somerset and Ports of Call.
“All you have to do is relax and we’ll take care of everything else.”
EXHALE SPA AT GANSEVOORT TURKS + CAICOS
I first met Laura Mensen when she took over as spa manager at Gansevoort’s Exhale Spa in November of 2011, and even though she’s always been fit and healthy looking, there’s definitely something to be said for her current lifestyle! She is toned and confident. Her skin is perfectly tanned, yet possesses a vibrant and healthy luminescence, the kind usually achieved only via Photoshop. Since I’m sitting a few feet away from a living breathing Laura, I can promise you it’s all natural. She looks so amazing, in fact, that I decided on the spot to sign up for a month of classes with Exhale Spa’s Core Fusion. “I’m doing the Core Fusion classes three times a week, and I’m teaching yoga.” She tells me, “And I work a lot, I think that’s part of it, too!”
Exhale Spa at the upscale Gansevoort Resort is the only International location for Exhale, who have five locations in the US. The company’s approach to Spa is slightly different than many; the focus isn’t solely on treatments, although they are fantastic. The philosophy is that the key to lasting health and beauty is an emphasis on exploring the mind-body connection. The Core Fusion fitness classes offered under the spa umbrella, complement the various treatment options available. “It’s a really good combination,” Laura explains the concept, “Come down to the islands, stay at Gansevoort and you can get a retreat. Sign up for a week of classes and book spa appointments. It’s a nice little getaway right here at the hotel.” If you’re fortunate enough to be spending a week or more in the Turks and Caicos Islands, Laura offers some scheduling advice, “If you’re doing multiple treatments, it’s good to spread them out, do a treatment every day or every other day.” If you’re looking for some guidance on what treatments to get, Laura has a great suggestion, “Get the Glow Scrub on the first day, before the sun. Then plan a hydrating wrap at the end of your holiday, to refresh your skin. And treat yourself to a massage in between.”
Whether you’re staying at Gansevoort or not, you’re welcome to book treatments and classes at Exhale Spa, so why not treat your mind and body to a unique work-out and a luxe spa experience?
BY KATHRYN FOX
INSIDER TIP:
Relaxing massage etiquette?
If you want to talk, it might be a nice change, but being silent in a massage allows your therapist to focus on what they’re doing. And don’t worry if you woke up late on the day of your massage and didn’t have time to shave your legs, no one cares about your stubble but you.
PROVO DEEP FLOW
Exhale Spa’s signature treatment is the Provo Deep Flow Massage. The massage utilizes flowing techniques and bodywork stretching to open locked muscles and free energy blockages. Make it a Couples Massage and enjoy pure bliss alongside your partner completing your spa experience in Exhale’s private, outdoor shower gardens.
Normally wheN I’m assIgNed to do aN excursIoN story It meaNs a boat rIde, some scuba dIvINg or the occasIoNal overhead adveNture vIa helIcopter or parasaIl. For our summer issue, though, I was more than a little pleased to have been told I’d be spending the day at The Regent Palms spa, to experience their re-launch and new product line. It’s a dirty job, but…
I’m no stranger to The Regent Spa, I think you’d be hard-pressed to find a woman who lives on this island who hasn’t enjoyed the Spa at least once. It’s a truly stunning location. It’s on the resort property at The Regent Palms, but in a separate building, set away from the bustle of the main resort. The spa covers one acre and the beautifully designed award winning spa buildings are over 25,000 square feet. When you arrive for your appointment you enter a courtyard, on your right you will find the Spa shop, where you check in for your treatment. You’ll then be escorted even further into the courtyard to the building that houses the beautiful locker rooms, showers and changing space.
Once you’re cozied up in one of the amazingly comfortable (and surprisingly flattering) robes, you can take up a lounge chair by the reflecting pool to await your therapist. I always think of the Taj Mahal when I see the long reflecting pool bordered by water features and the individual treatment rooms on either side. The lounge chairs are under cover to protect you from the sun, and keep you nice and cool while you relax. It’s very peaceful, and can be made private, if you like, with the use of hanging curtains.
I arrived for my appointment quite early, so I could really take advantage of this time. From the moment you enter the Spa courtyard, you are gradually separated from the anxieties of ‘real life’. By the time you are contemplating the reflecting pool, everything outside will be a dim memory. When Janice came to collect me, I had nearly achieved enlightenment and had solved several of the world’s biggest problems. Sadly, these answers were soon to be lost in the soothing mist of the Zareeba.
The 90-minute Zareeba treatment is a locally-inspired cleansing and detoxification ritual for the whole body. You’re seated in an enclosure, much like a small sauna, with a cauldron of boiling water, thick with herbs. You’re encouraged to stir the mixture, which will increase the steam and the soothing aromas. The action of stirring can become quite meditative, and is part of the entire experience. After 20 minutes you’ll be treated to a cooling wrap, to complete the detoxification, and then finally to a total body massage, which can be as light as a relaxation massage, or a more therapeutic deeper massage. I don’t know if it was Janice’s skill or the Zareeba treatment, but the massage nearly eliminated my ability to think, I became a lump of blissed-out jelly, which is a welcome relief to an overly analytical worrier like myself.
In between treatments, I take a break for lunch, which is a beautifully executed symphony of flavours that perfectly complement one another, and my day so far, culminating with a sweet crème brulee - a personal favourite.
I was really looking forward to my post-lunch facial. Like many people who live in the islands, I’m guilty of not using enough sunscreen or drinking enough water. Now that I’m “ahem!” years old, I’m learning to take better care of my skin and part of that routine is to get a facial every month or so. The Regent Palms Spa, as part of the re-launch, has taken on a new product line, Sothys from Paris. During the training phase, Sothys sent in their own trainers to work with the therapists at The Regent Palms Spa; this means the team here is as well trained as any therapist in a Sothys spa in New York or Paris.
While you’re visiting Providenciales, don’t miss out on an opportunity to visit an award-winning spa, featuring world-class products and therapists, and scrumptious meals. You’ll come away feeling a little bit more philosophical, a little bit healthier, and a lot more relaxed. If you get a Sothys facial, you’ll also look a little younger, and isn’t that priceless?
INSIDER TIP:
Whenever I book two treatments I do my best to split them with an hour break in between so I can really enjoy this peaceful retreat. If you like, you can order lunch or simply enjoy a cool drink. Sometimes I read, but occasionally I take the time to just zen out and contemplate life, the universe and everything.
Spa Tropique
What sets Spa Tropique apart from other spas on island?
The biggest thing that sets us apart is that we are independently owned. This allows us the incredible freedom to be free thinkers. Many spas around the world have become very cookie-cutter in both their experience with the guest and their aesthetic. Most spa companies order all their supplies from the same spa catalogs. Because Spa Tropique is independent and able to operate freely, we find vendors from all over the world. We have the luxury of being able to pull in new products and try new techniques with a speed that other spa companies just don’t have, as they usually need to go through a chain of command and approval from the ‘head’ office. At Spa Tropique, I’m the head office!
Being independent allows us the ability change our menu of services and adapt our services in a much quicker time frame. So, as those changes are occurring in the market, they are occurring at Spa Tropique. We also have a full-service mobile company, Spa Tropique Mobile, where we come to you! Our full menu of services can be adapted for house calls. It’s quite decadent and very popular. The therapists come with everything to help you relax: candles, iPods, tables, aromatherapy scents…and of course, their wonderful touch.
Tell me about a signature treatment you feel is unique and you wish all your guests would try?
I love the KooKoo for Coconuts. It’s so ‘islandy!’ (And awesome for your skin.) Coconut Oil is especially useful in fighting free-radicals, as it is unrefined and hasn't been stripped of any of its natural components through the refining process. And it’s heavenly aroma has been proven to promote rest.
Kiwis are rich in vitamin E and Vitamin C. Vitamin E is commonly associated with good, healthy, and fabulously smooth skin. This vitamin does a great deal to heal and replenish your skin. Vitamin C helps maintain the collagen level in your body and therefore makes your skin much more firm, strong, smooth, and supple. And Vitamin C is an incredibly strong anti-oxidant.
What product lines do you use and promote?
I very much believe in Pevonia for their facial and body Treatment lines. They are 100% plant based and believe in the philosophy that the most effective skincare ingredients can be found in the safest source on earth, in nature. Mother Nature is truly the best spa provider! For our retail clients, we carry many different retail lines that are sourced from different companies all over the world. I try and support companies whose beliefs are in line with ours: all natural, environmentally friendly and they must perform some sort of charitable contribution whether it be time, training or money.
SPA TROPIQUE LOCATIONS:
Ocean Club East, Ocean Club West, The Sands at Grace Bay, Windsong Resort, West Bay Club, The Somerset and Ports of Call.
“All you have to do is relax and we’ll take care of everything else.”
EXHALE SPA AT GANSEVOORT TURKS + CAICOS
I first met Laura Mensen when she took over as spa manager at Gansevoort’s Exhale Spa in November of 2011, and even though she’s always been fit and healthy looking, there’s definitely something to be said for her current lifestyle! She is toned and confident. Her skin is perfectly tanned, yet possesses a vibrant and healthy luminescence, the kind usually achieved only via Photoshop. Since I’m sitting a few feet away from a living breathing Laura, I can promise you it’s all natural. She looks so amazing, in fact, that I decided on the spot to sign up for a month of classes with Exhale Spa’s Core Fusion. “I’m doing the Core Fusion classes three times a week, and I’m teaching yoga.” She tells me, “And I work a lot, I think that’s part of it, too!”
Exhale Spa at the upscale Gansevoort Resort is the only International location for Exhale, who have five locations in the US. The company’s approach to Spa is slightly different than many; the focus isn’t solely on treatments, although they are fantastic. The philosophy is that the key to lasting health and beauty is an emphasis on exploring the mind-body connection. The Core Fusion fitness classes offered under the spa umbrella, complement the various treatment options available. “It’s a really good combination,” Laura explains the concept, “Come down to the islands, stay at Gansevoort and you can get a retreat. Sign up for a week of classes and book spa appointments. It’s a nice little getaway right here at the hotel.” If you’re fortunate enough to be spending a week or more in the Turks and Caicos Islands, Laura offers some scheduling advice, “If you’re doing multiple treatments, it’s good to spread them out, do a treatment every day or every other day.” If you’re looking for some guidance on what treatments to get, Laura has a great suggestion, “Get the Glow Scrub on the first day, before the sun. Then plan a hydrating wrap at the end of your holiday, to refresh your skin. And treat yourself to a massage in between.”
Whether you’re staying at Gansevoort or not, you’re welcome to book treatments and classes at Exhale Spa, so why not treat your mind and body to a unique work-out and a luxe spa experience?
BY KATHRYN FOX
INSIDER TIP:
Relaxing massage etiquette?
If you want to talk, it might be a nice change, but being silent in a massage allows your therapist to focus on what they’re doing. And don’t worry if you woke up late on the day of your massage and didn’t have time to shave your legs, no one cares about your stubble but you.
PROVO DEEP FLOW
Exhale Spa’s signature treatment is the Provo Deep Flow Massage. The massage utilizes flowing techniques and bodywork stretching to open locked muscles and free energy blockages. Make it a Couples Massage and enjoy pure bliss alongside your partner completing your spa experience in Exhale’s private, outdoor shower gardens.
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