A Couple’s Experience at the highest spa in the world
Review: The Spa At the Ritz Carlton Hong Kong
Treatment: Relaxation Massage for Two
Located on the 116th floor of the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Hong Kong, the spa takes advantage of the sweeping views of Victoria Harbour in what are some of the most impressive treatment and relaxation rooms imaginable.
Upon exiting the lift after an ear popping elevation, one is welcomed into unquestionably the most tranquil location in bustling Kowloon. The space itself is understated yet refined, featuring curved walls and dark wood paneling, dimly lit enough to put you in the mood for pampering but not so dark you find yourself squinting at registration forms.
Whilst guests finalise their selected treatment forms (conveniently available online up to 24hrs before), a receptionist serves a cold blend of passion fruit-flavored tea. After being guided to a well appointed locker room featuring a herbal steam room, sauna and both an ‘experience’ and walk-in shower.
Whilst both the facilities and vistas at the Ritz Carlton Spa are very impressive, what sets this spa apart is the attentiveness and professionalism of its therapists. It can often be the case that spas, especially luxury spas can veer toward the wants and needs of seasoned spa-visitors perhaps at the expense of those less well versed in spa indulgence. This is not the case here.
After being met at relaxation rooms, guests are led to a treatment room with floor-to-ceiling views, and promptly invited to sit, facing the unbeatable view of Victoria harbour for a pre-treatment foot washing, then being invited to sample different treatment oils to be used during their treatment. In this case the Treatment Room was one of two ‘Private Couples Suites’, a vast treatment-room-come-hotel-suite featuring a private seating area, large hot-tub, shower facilities and changing room complete with wardrobe. It is important to note that these private suites are preferable for couples who wish to share the experience as all of the spa’s relaxation areas are single sex.
The treatment itself succeeded in surpassing expectations, namely as a result of the responsiveness, expertise and friendliness of the therapists – such standards are not to be taken for granted as many other comparable establishments in the region often fall short here. Once the massage ends, the experience isn’t over each guest’s therapist excuses themselves and returns with a range of snacks including warm roasted nuts, and fresh elegantly presented fruit; as this treatment was part of a birthday celebration a glass of champaign was proferred and we were invited to enjoy the views basking in new found sense of relaxation and unparalleled views of this spectacular spa.