If the volcanic ash-cloud has put your dreams of a relaxing break abroad on hold, why not get a flavour of what you might have experienced in a UK spa which specialises in globally-influenced treatments?
Didn't make it to Thailand? You could try a treatment at the 5 Senses Thai Day Spa in York, whose therapists trained at the What Po Academy, at the Temple of the Reclining Buddha in Bangkok. Not up North? Then head to the New Forest to try the award-winning SenSpa at Carey's Manor, whose Thai-themed retreat in the heart of the forest won them 5-bubble status with the Good Spa Spies.
If French thalassotherapy is more your thing, try Sequoia at the Grove, in Hertfordshire, or any of the Champneys day-spas. Thalassotherapy uses mineral-rich warm water and hydrotherapy jets to soothe and tone aching muscles and can help treat arthritis, cellulite, and joint and muscle pains.
Finally, what about India's tradition of Ayurveda? You could even combine Eastern wellbeing with a good old British break in Jersey, and go there by ferry! The Ayush Spa in St Helier was the first completely ayurvedic hotel in the UK and they are fully committed to the concept of ayurvedic wellness. Or head to the heart of the country to the UK's only spa in a stately home, Hoar Cross Hall who have an ayurveda wing in their award-winning spa.
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Stylish Spy
6th March 2014
Spy Likes:
Minimalist lines; organic products; facial massage; tranquillity; interesting people-watching.
Spy Dislikes:
Discarded towels on loungers; steam rooms that aren't steamy; mobile phones.