If Ponce de Leon had been serious about trying to locate The Fountain of Youth, he would have made a stop at mySpa Miami, nestled in the luxurious Hotel InterContinental.
After an amazing week of navigating Ocean Dr., running on the beach, practicing Bikram yoga, enjoying gelati (yes, plural), refining my skills as a health counselor and shopping, I definitely needed a massage and facial. In a place where the beautiful people live, work and play, there was a plethora of spa options. However, there was something about mySpa that spoke to me... and I am so glad that I listened.
The hotel service was superb, from the door (even after I told them I was only staying for a few hours to enjoy the spa). Once I stepped into the hotel, I completely forgot about the hustle and bustle of downtown Miami. I was directed to the beautiful plaza level where the spa, fitness center, and pool are located.
On the day of booked services, guests have the option to enjoy all of the amenities in this serene area that instantly appeals to all 5 senses. *breathe* The dim lights, the melodic tones, the soothing aromas, the herbal infused water and the plush spa wear made for a near euphoric experience before I even met Liz, my SuperTherapist. The quaint spa boutique featured eye and skin candy from some of my favorite spa lines, as well as a few new favorites. I played in this area for a while before being escorted to the ladies spa where I placed my belongings in a Digilock locker and slid on a luxurious mySpa robe and OKAb slippers... I love them and they love me.
Because I began my last day in SoFLo on the beach, I was elated to experience the Drench Shower, which uses four heads to cascade a spectrum of warm water, as if from Heaven itself. I then moved to the majestic steam room, so that I could prepare myself for the permeation of each spa ingredient to be placed on my skin.
I rested for a few moments in the opulent relaxation room. The chaise lounger, low lights and trickling waterfalls helped me... to escape... to dreamland... just before...
What was I saying? Oh, yes! The spa! My therapist's gentle voice awakens me for my first service, the True Transformation facial. I was guided through a beautiful labyrinth of stone and steel, into 1 of 10 treatment rooms. Liz gave me preparation instructions and left the room. I did a happy dance and hopped on the warm table. I returned to my dignified self, just before Liz returned to the room. She analyzed my skin, asked about my current regimen and began to work her magic. Her hands were like tiny pillows caressing and caring for my skin- pure bliss. The steam, the brushing, the massage, the scrubbing- I love it all! Then she turned on me! She began the extractions! Unfortunately, this necessary evil becomes even more necessary when leading an active (read "sweaty") lifestyle. Liz was as gentle as she could possibly be and assured me that she would stop the process at anytime, but I was all in. Go for it, Liz! This was just a not-so-gentle reminder for me to enjoy facials and mini-facials more often. She made nice with an aromatic and moisturizing massage of my face, shoulders, arms and hands. Lovely. She finished me off with a few sweet words and told me what to do before my next service... and you won't believe this!
Zen Garden created by my good friend on South Beach
I returned to the relaxation room so that the multi-skilled (and multi-licensed) Liz could prepare a room for my Lava Shell Massage. I could not pass on this experience! Apparently, native villagers in the Philippines create a sustainable living by collecting and polishing these beautiful Tiger Clam shells that are then heated and used to help the therapist melt away any sign of stress or tension in the body. As a spa enthusiast, I must say, this was one of the most enjoyable services I have received. As the therapist kneaded my lower body, I realized that my legs were made for rubbing, not for running... I was suddenly re-thinking this half-marathon madness.
I don't remember much after that, but I do know that I highly recommend this spa, these services, and this therapist. I look and feel about 10 years younger. Ponce- eat your heart out!
Next Spa-t is in Cincinnati, Ohio!
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