TOSKANA THERME BAD ORB OPENS

New & Stunning Addition to Germany's Toskanaworld Group

Between the historic salt works and the "Kurhotel an der Therme," a temple for the of art of bathing has been built in an ancient spa town near Germany's hub of finance and culture. Even the graceful roof imparts a unique feeling of generosity and ease. Whoever dives into the Bad Orber "Champagne-like" thermal waters will experience relaxation and stimulation, half-dreaming, half-dancing combined with a contemporary reflection on the rhythms of nature. Concerts take place in the water. Floating in Liquid Sound® transforms the bathing experience to a massage in light and music.

Culture can hardly be more healthy and sensual. The concept by Marion Schneider and Klaus Boehm, founders of Toskanaworld, links past and present. Liquid Sound impressario Micky Reiman will orchestrate events in the vast bathhouse.

There is much to discover in the new Toskanaworld: a sauna, which can be reached via a "virtual fish pond", the reading sauna "Lektarium," and a full range of wellness and spa services for a short break or gourmet holiday. Designed and managed by the same team responsible for the original Toskanaworld near Weimar in eastern Germany, the new complex includes a hotel, conference center, and concert hall. The investment together with revitalization of the historic salt house (Gradierwerk) for respiratory therapy, and renovation of the Concert Hall (Konzerthalle) for summer opera, was described as the "largest spa investment in post-war Germany" in the Frankfurter Rundschau.

Located in a rural valley 30 minutes from Frankfurt, Bad Orb is home to a small but vibrant community of natural healers.
Contact: ms@toskanaworld.com

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SUMMER GETAWAYS

Count your way down through a host of soothing, spa-tacular getaways. Whether complete wellness rejuvenation is on the agenda or a simple, relaxing facial, these locales have everything your bod desires. Choose from lengthy 14-day retreats to quickie 15-minute sessions: you decide when, where, and for how long . 3, 2, 1.

14 DAYS

Crystal Cruises
Luxuriate on a two-week Mind, Body & Spirit-themed sailing on board the Crystal Symphony. The 14-day Passage of the Vikings sets sail from London en route to New York on September 5. Fares begin at $5,710 per person, double occupancy, plus a port, security, and handling charge of $380. Includes airfare and a $1,000 shipboard spending credit per person for spa services by Steiner.

La Réserve Geneva
Crack the Swiss secret to living longer: La Réserve Geneva new 14-day Better Aging Program features a personalized agenda designed by the spa's doctor and osteopath. Phase one, detoxification. Phase two, complete revitalization. As for phase three? Enjoy the results!

6 DAYS

La Réserve Ramatuelle, France
In this down economy, La Réserve Ramatuelle is assisting guests with French style! The resort's Personalized Six-Day Program combines the knowledge of specialists and therapists to produce a regimen of health, well-being, nutrition, and beauty care, all geared toward long-term results. Offering includes seven nights of accommodation.

Anantara Si Kao Resort & Spa, Thailand
Get out of Dodge and embark on a Personal Retreat at Anantara Si Kao. Enjoy six nights of accommodation in a room or suite, consultations with the resort's resident naturopath and ayurvedic doctor, daily meals personally tailored for you by the naturopath and executive chef, and a personalized program to lead you toward spiritual, mental, and physical wellness. Package rate begins at $2,600 for a Deluxe Garden Terrace room, single-occupancy, inclusive of taxes and service charge.

5 DAYS

COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali and Turks & Caicos
It's nice to have choices, isn't it? COMO Shambhala Estate in Bali leaves the decision in your hands and features a variety of Wellness Programs with therapies angled toward a specific purpose (from cleansing to get fit). The resort also has a 20% discount on select lifestyle and healing programs, so make sure to check out the list before booking. Programs are available in three- or seven-night packages. Searching for something soothing a little closer to home? Try COMO's Parrot Cay in Turks & Caicos for its Aryuvedic and Stress Management programs.

Four Seasons Carmelo Resort, Uruguay
Reverse seasons in South America at the ultra-private Four Seasons Resort in Uruguay's wine country. A short cruise from Buenos Aires brings you to Carmelo, a charming colonial town, where you'll be whisked by limo to this upscale hideaway. Settle into a bi-level lodge suite or your own cottage, steps from a full-service spa and fitness center. Enter a Zen garden, flanked by indoor swimming pool, yoga studios. Ask about Asian therapies, Kanebo facial.. Try the 60 minute South American beat massage: It starts by choosing between four aromas for the body oil -- the masseuse places a wet hot towel on your back, which cools to a Latino beat. Contact: http://www.fourseasons.com/carmelo/spa/massages.html

Rosewood Mayakobá, Mexico
Find yourself in a world of ancient Mayan customs when you book the four-night Spa Indulgence package at Rosewood Mayakobá's Sense Spa on the Riviera Maya near Cancun. Guests will participate in a Traditional Temazcal Journey, similar to the Temazcal, or sweat lodges, of ancient yore, which were used to purify the body after battle. Offering also includes daily buffet breakfast, Mayakobá Complete Body Therapies, Mayakobá Ancient Massages, Mayakobá Body Glow treatments and spa gifts (all for two), and is available until December 15, starting from $1,222 per night, inclusive of tax and service.

Mantra Resort, Punta del Est, Uruguay
Set on a forested hill overlooking Atlantic beaches, Mantra Resort's art-filled building arcs around a swimming pool and restaurant, spills onto a wine bar, casino, and cinema. The Balance Spa features an indoor pool, gym, and 16 treatment rooms where you can regain balance. Relax in jetted whirlpools, try ayurvedic massage or classic therapies. Upstairs, the beauty center offers manicure, pedicure and hairdresser. Specialties include Clarins facial, body wrap with indigenous oils. Contact: www.mantraresort.com

2 DAYS

Nantucket Island Resorts
Picture a warm afternoon overlooking the Nantucket Harbor, sipping mint iced tea, and nibbling fresh cranberry treats. Make this your reality with the White Elephant's special Too Good to Be True promotion, available now through June 17. Offering includes a 60-minute massage, 30-minute facial, and a 30-minute hand or foot paraffin treatment. Package is $155 (not including taxes or gratuities).

1 DAY

Victoria Jungfrau Collection, Switzerland
Swiss hospitality + Japanese spa sensibility = an unrivaled Ultimate Indulgence Package at the Victoria Jungfrau's Sensai Select Spa. The treatment incorporates an infusion of Koishimaru Silk, a precious variety from Japan known as the 'silk of silks.' Nightly rates start from CHF 965 (about $902) per person in a double room for a five-star Alpine experience in Interlaken.

ESPA at Acqualina Resort & Spa, Florida
Too much sun on the sandy beaches of South Florida? Acqualina Resort & Spa near Miami provides ESPA 'Vitality' which includes an 80-minute Massage or Facial and a 15-minute Guided Meditation. Then spend the day lounging in the spa's Crystal Steam Rooms, Finnish Saunas, Experience Showers, or Ice Fountains. Or take a dip: the private Spa Pool Deck has heated jet pool, roman waterfall, and a relaxation area. Guests also receive a complimentary yoga class, available Saturdays at 9 a.m. 'Vitality' cost is $225 (a $307 value!), plus gratuity.

15 MINUTES

Andaz Wall Street, New York
Wall Street's hot new hotel offers best Shares and Stocks at The SPA at Andaz Wall Street. Guests can personalize their spa experiences with short 15-minute treatments (shares) or long ones of 90 minutes (stocks). Need energy in the morning or relaxation at the end of the day? SPA therapists tailor their techniques and products to your specifications. And don't forget the complimentary post-treatment, Wall Street staples: a Wall Street Journal and a suit touch-up and shoe shine on request. Add a gourmet take-out lunch for picnic on Manhattan waterfront.

REINVENTING LAS VEGAS

CityCenter Spa Trifecta Raises Hotel Competition

SpaGoer Bernard Burt explores Vegas' new destination.

"Bigger is Better" used to be the mantra of Las Vegas developers. But there's never been anything like CityCenter on the famed Strip. A futuristic metropolis, the 67-acre enclave includes three new hotels featuring three spas that raise the bar on Vegas lifestyle.

From the moment you enter this gallery of glass towers, CityCenter is a world apart. Upscale restaurants bearing names of celebrity chefs, boutiques stocked by some of the world's leading luxury retailers, and a jaw-dropping theater for Cirque du Soliel's celebration of Elvis Presley, dazzle and delight. There are more art galleries than Vegas has seen since Bellagio opened next door. A patisserie unlike anything in Paris. But just one casino.

Hotels at the core of CityCenter contrast style and service. The largest is ARIA Resort & Casino, a 67-story tower with 4,004 guest rooms. The smallest, 392-room Mandarin Oriental, brings international flair to a 47-story tower that includes 225 residences. For long-stay and condo ownership, the luxe Vdara Hotel adds 1,495 suites to the mix. All three hotels are owned by the developer of CityCenter, a partnership of MGM MIRAGE and investor Dubai World with Istithmar Hotels and Kerzner International.

Each hotel sports a spa that caters to individual experiences. While all three spas are owned by CityCenter, there is a sense of friendly rivalry. Branding drives design, facilities vary widely. Helmed by experienced Vegas hands, each offers distinctive experiences and state-of-the-art retreats.

THE SPA AT ARIA adjoins gardens and swimming pools suspended in the sky. With 62 treatment rooms, full-service salon, glass-walled fitness center featuring LifeFitness equipment, and poolside spa cabanas, this peaceful haven is the place to relax and restore balance. Set on two levels, separate facilities for men and women include the usual amenities, plus "Ganbanyoku" heated-stone beds, "Shio" salt vapor rooms. On a co-ed balcony above the gardens, spa guests have exclusive use of a heated lap pool. Poolside therapies include cold stone massage (50 min, $175). Great for groups: spa suite packages (three-hour minimum) start at $420 per person plus $25 per hour. Movement studio classes are scheduled ($35-$45), or just use fitness facilities for $30. Director of Spa and Salon Michelle Wilkos developed private label products for treatments, huge retail boutique with logo sportswear.
Contact: 877.312.2742 or 702.590.9600.

THE SPA AT MANADARIN ORIENTAL, LAS VEGAS introduced sunrise yoga with Swami Ramananda, Professor emeritus of Indian Philosophy, Yoga, and Feng Shui at the University of Nevada. In a sprung-floor studio overlooking the Strip, we saw the sun rise while doing salutations and stretches. Born in California, the swami's journey from Esalen to Madras is documented in his book "From India With Love." My spa experience was more mundane, due to the arrangement of facilities on two floors, and an outdoor swimming pool closed due to cold, wet weather. Designed with the same sense of style that pervades all Mandarin Oriental spas, the journey begins at the hotel's 23rd floor Sky Lobby, then a private elevator to spa reception where tea is served in a lounge redolent of 1930s Shanghai. Escorted upstairs to a gorgeous Dragon Spa Suite, I glimpsed 17 treatment rooms (seven couples' suites), Chinese Foot Spa, co-ed vitality pool for soaks with a view of the city, fitness room with Technogym equipment. Relaxation comes with hammam, laconium, mens' sauna, ladies' rhassoul, steam rooms, and experience showers. Jennifer Lynn, Director of Spa, says aestheticians are trained by specialists from Hong Kong and ESPA from Britain. While personal touches (clothing for exercise, selection of massage oils, single-chair hair salon) are traditional, what sets Mandarin Oriental Spa apart is Time Rituals with signature line of oils, shower gel, lotions, and candles, a first for Las Vegas (Two Hours, $350; 4 Hours, $800).
Contact: 888.881.9576 or 702.590.8888.

VDARA HEALTH & BEAUTY, an enclave of organic rejuvenation, teams Red Flower rituals, Naturopathica holistic body treatments, Peter Thomas Roth skin care. Naturopathica specialty massages include French Lavender Soother (60 minutes, $140). Go alfresco at the hotel's Sky Pool; six Spa Cabanas feature rituals from Thailand by Akhassa, a line infused with lemongrass, kaffir lime, and exotic flowers (60 minute massage, $175; 120 minute body treatment $350). Finishing touches in the salon by Aveda, Kerastase, and Sparitiual, plus champagne bar, Director of Spa & Salon Elizabeth Lesser introduced ZO Skin Health, a new line by Dr. Zein Obagi, and hair treatments with MoroccanOil, a trademarked line made with vitamin-rich oil of argan tree fruit grown in Morocco. The hotel is both smoke-free and certified LEED Gold.
Contact: 866.391.7111 or 702.590.2030.

DEFINING DIFFERENCES

Planned pre-recession, the 67-acre, $8.5 billion CityCenter can be overwhelming, an excess or success, glut on the depressed market or breaking the mould. Crowds encountered during my January visit clearly enjoyed the soaring spaces, traffic-free access, and over-the-top design.

The concept by MGM MIRAGE envisioned a new kind of Las Vegas, designed by some of the world's top architects to draw energy from an environment rich in action, smoke-free (mostly), without touristy shops. Fountains, art and sculpture add color and light to public spaces. Technology by Control4 Suite Systems enhances guest rooms; sensors open drapes to spectacular views of mountains, turn on TV and lights with a choreographed flourish said to conserve energy. Automated controls aside, my room at ARIA had lots of creature comfort, including bath and shower separated by glass walls.

Tucked away on Las Vegas Boulevard, the Mandarin Oriental was the only hotel with doormen who handed out umbrellas during a winter storm, called the hotel car to take us back to Aria. Whisked to the 23rd floor reception lobby and tea lounge, you discover the difference a boutique hotel offers. Go for high tea or dim sum, libations at the bar, stay for lunch in a charming Asian café or dinner at the pricey French restaurant as the lights of Vegas put on a mesmerizing show.

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental reflects traditions of Hong Kong, Miami, and New York sister hotels. Developed by Andrew Gibson, the company's debut in the desert resort brings together East and West. Under spa director Jennifer Lynn, designers included a yoga studio and soaking pool. A spa industry professional with 15 years' experience in many facets of spa design and operations, self-proclaimed desert flower, Lynn is right at home in the glittering backdrop of her native Las Vegas. She began her career in spa design under the tutelage of casino mogul Stephen Wynn, operated many spas at hotels on the Las Vegas Strip including Treasure Island, Bellagio, and Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace.

Michelle Wilkos, another desert spa diva, faced the monumental task of working with superstar architect Cesar Pelli on Vegas' largest spa complex at the ARIA. Coming from Bellagio, she had the advantage of knowing the local market and resources. With spacious lounges, unique saunas, glass-walled fitness center overlooking the pool patio, Michelle topped the experience by adding a private terrace for spagoers, complete with lap pool.

Attending a performance by Cirque du Soliel highlights any Vegas visit. The theater at ARIA almost overwhelms "Viva ELVIS," but rock-and-roll production numbers and amazing acrobats make this 90-minute nostalgia-trip a must-see.

Steps from the theater, three restaurants exude star quality in both décor and menu: Jean-George Steakhouse, Michael Mina's American Fish, and Sirio Restorante bring showmanship and professional service to memorable dining. Especially when chef Mina's minions offer seafood from ocean water tanks, poached, baked, or broiled in a one-of-a-kind kitchen. On the ARIA casino floor are more culinary treats: Chinese, Spanish, Japanese, and American. Charmingly informal, Jean Philippe Patisserie offers croissants, coffee, and gelato.

With so many attractions, we left CityCenter only to see Rita Rudner's funny take on life at Harrah's. Suddenly, it was the old Strip hustle and bustle. What a difference!

CityCenter, an unprecedented urban metropolis on the Las Vegas Strip with Gold and Silver LEED® certifications, is a joint venture between MGM MIRAGE and Infinity World Development Corp, a subsidiary of Dubai World. For a virtual tour, including future additions, go to www.citycenter.com

CRUISE SHIPS REDEFINE SPAS

Carnival Corporation & plc, the largest cruise vacation group in the world, added its largest ship - CARNIVAL DREAM, capacity 3,652 passengers - topping a fleet of 88 ships, totaling more than 167,000 lower berths. And 18 new ships are scheduled to join Carnival brands by 2012.

Brands in the Carnival portfolio include Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, The Yachts of Seabourn, AIDA Cruises, Costa Cruises, Cunard Line, Ibero Cruises, Ocean Village, P&O Cruises and P&O Cruises Australia.

EPIC EXPERIENCES ABOARD NORWEGIAN LINER

Eagerly anticipated, the Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) plans to debut its next generation of ships this summer, NORWEGIAN EPIC. Scheduled to cruise the Caribbean weekly from Miami, The Norwegian Epic has a groovy look that pushes the envelope of cruise ship design. Spas will be larger, offering more social space as well as nail buff bars, tooth whitening, and BOTOX® Cosmetic. "We have thrown away the rule book," said NCL president and CEO, Colin Veitch. Gone are regimented designs of cabins. Bathroom functions will be split into separate areas, with sinks in the main part of cabins, curvy walls simulate waves. For the ultimate spa escape, deluxe Spa Suites have key-card access to the Spa Thermal Suite. And you can upgrade to The Villas on two exclusive decks, accessible only by private elevator, with private pool in a secluded courtyard.

Social space is a bonus on the big ships, with private lounges and pools inside the spa complex. NCL Freestyle Cruising adds open seating in main dining rooms, plus specialty restaurants with cover charge, and beach barbecue on a private island. Look for more space for fitness, less emphasis on hair salons. As far as new trends in spa amenities and services, passengers can experience cosmetic treatments at the Steiner Medi-Spa Wellness Center. The concept includes results-driven treatments such as BOTOX® Cosmetic, Restylane® and Perlane®, which are administered by the licensed "Medi-Spa Physician" onboard, in the relaxed setting of the spa. Other services at the seagoing medi-spa include acupuncture, microdermabrasion, and GoSMILE Tooth Whitening.

In the vanguard of the next generation of spas at sea, Steiner unveiled the Mandara Yin & Yang Spa aboard the NCL NORWEGIAN GEM last summer in a series of cruises from New York. The concept by SMC, a design studio in London, was influenced by NCL Board member Tan Sri Lim, Chairman, President and Chief Executive of Asia-based Star Cruises, to add a popular part of Oriental culture. Only at sea, the sauna seems to float.

Visual surprises come with seaviews, as some areas of the spa extend beyond the ship's hull, creating the feeling of workouts above the waves. Separate thermal suites for men and women provide saunas and showers, Jacuzzi, and hydrotherapy tubs. The 18 treatment rooms include a hammam scrub, dry float with SoftPack, rasul mud chamber, couples suite with whirlpool, and a tooth whitening room. The retail shop cross-markets products used in treatments: Elemis Skin Lab, Ionithermie, Steiner Hair Care, and GoSmile. The gym offers Precor equipment with personal video, Gavity, spin bikes, FitBalls, and an aerobics studio.

Located high above the ship's prow, Norwegian Gem's spa blends contemporary minimalist style with Asian accents. This was achieved by using finishes of rich cherry, black ash furnishings, cream and muted green wall coverings. Designer Alan Stewart kept the various spaces deliberately simple to accentuate the internal space of each room, contrasting yin and yang with lighting and fabric rather than furniture. "It creates a sense of drama, giving an overall ambiance to each interior," Stewart explains.

Cruising with kids and grandparents is increasingly popular. Aboard the Gem, activities include workshops with a Lego master, and exclusive treatments for teens at Yin & Yang. For a fee, you can use the bowling alley, indoor tennis courts; Water slide and climbing wall are free. Accommodations for families include villas around a swimming pool and private sundeck. Our stateroom had a curtained sitting area that doubled as bedroom, tight but comfortable.. Sharing the experience with a teenager added a new dimension. Taking her first cruise in stride after a rocky start, Luanna Pollock commented on each day, from food to fun ashore. She signed up for her first facial, napped in the thermal suite, swam with dolphin at the Atlantis Resort in Nassau and had a massage at its glam Mandara Spa, tried Japanese teppanyaki and French bistro dinners. Bottom line: "Amazing." (www.ncl.com)

CELEBRITY CRUISES CUSTOMIZES AQUA CLASS

Celebrity Cruises launched AquaClass aboard the line's newest and most innovative ship, CELEBRITY SOLSTICE. Featuring an entirely new category of veranda staterooms, the trademarked AquaClass will be a holistic journey at sea for spagoers. Unlimited extras like bottled water, juices, and tea are in the minibar. A special dining room featuring spa cuisine, Blu, caters to AquaClass cruisers. The AquaClass Spa by Elemis is an integral part of the experience, affording advance reservations for passengers booked in AquaClass. A sister ship, the 2,850-passenger CELEBRITY EQUINOX, debuted last spring in the Caribbean. (www.celebritycruises.com).

ROYAL CARIBBEAN BETS BIGGER IS BETTER

The largest cruise ship ever built, Royal Caribbean's OASIS OF THE SEAS resembles a floating resort. With a capacity of 5,400 passengers, the ship cost more than $1.5 billion. Innovative features include a massive "Central Park" atrium with live trees and outdoor restaurant seating. Its 16 decks include cabins overlooking the atrium or sea.

Spa management aboard Oasis by Steiner continues a long partnership with Royal Caribbean International. Paula Hodgson, Steiner VP for development, shared first impressions: "What I can say is that she is really pretty amazing. As we visit so many ships and new ships and they are all wonderful and normally have a couple of new things, OASIS' hull design itself is just so innovative. Everything they have on board their Freedom Class liners has been doubled: 2 rock climbing walls, 2 surf riders etc. The concept of seven themed "neighborhoods" is very nice, and I think one of the surprises is that you are on this huge magnificent ship and really need a pair of roller skates to get around. But the different venues are not all oversized, and there are many more intimate areas - specialty restaurants as well as casual restaurants like Johnny Rockets, Pizza, Sea Shack - and other entertainment areas. Of course Studio B for the ice show, and headliner shows in the theater, and main restaurants are large; guests will go in different directions to different places & spaces."

Creating the concept for The Vitality at Sea, Steiner integrated spa and fitness center, working closely with John Picken at the time Royal planning was taking place. Faced with space limits, Hodgson says "we had started to build momentum with some new initiatives and had some new ones on the horizon that we managed to get incorporated into the design. You can't get a better platform to launch and promote them than on a new ship like Oasis with so much media attention and focus. Seeing the space on paper even on Royal's very detailed web site is one thing; once on board with everything coming to fruition is great. There is a dedicated SMILE SPA with two private pods for GoSmile teeth whitening ($199 plus 18% gratuity). The Elemis Spa bar and retail area has 2 facial pods; salon with state of the art pedicure banquettes and 2 nail bars plus styling area. We did have to incorporate the two barber stations into the salon but there were 2 stations set apart from the other 4 that helped give some definition from the rest of the space.

The fitness area was a challenge and changed location 3 or 4 times before finally ending up connected to the spa. After a lot of creativity, this is a dynamic space, utilizing an area on Deck 6 that is unlike what our guests are accustomed to finding on the higher decks. We launched a new Activio cycle program which is dynamite, and had the instructor's bike positioned on a raised platform. There is a huge selection of LifeFitness equipment plus some new Virtual reality bikes, full Kinesis wall system, new class offerings with accessories like Gravity machines."

The spa zone includes changing rooms, relaxation lounge, thermal suite a little on the small side for the ship, rasul mud lounge, mixture of couples suites, dry and wet single rooms, plus a medi spa area with 5 treatment rooms. There is also a dedicated "YSPA" TEEN SPA/YOUTH SPA with 3 spacious treatment rooms and their own waiting/relaxation area. The Zen décor adds bamboo and gardens in various spa areas, contemporary but not overly Asian. There is also an Enrichment Lounge along the Avenue for wellness seminars.

The ship's progress, standard of finishes, and just organization and cleanliness were impressive. "Of course Royal has an experienced team," says Hodgson, "that keeps going out to do these massive ships." Sailing weekly from Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades) in Florida, Oasis of the Seas will be joined by an identical twin, ALLURE OF THE SEAS, next season. (www.oasisoftheseas.com)

CARNIVAL FLEET EXPANDS

Aboard the new CARNIVAL DREAM, Steiner operates the 23,750-square-foot Cloud 9 Spa, which has earned accolades for its creative design and amenities. The 3,646-passenger ship includes a WaterWorks aqua park with a 300-foot-long corkscrew water slide, a stunning indoor/outdoor café and live entertainment venue called Ocean Plaza, and a wide range of staterooms including deluxe ocean views with two-bathrooms, some of which have five beds and hold particular appeal for families. The Lanai, an outdoor promenade, features cantilevered whirlpools that extend over the ship's sides. Sailing year-round from Port Canaveral, cruises can be combined with visits to Walt Disney World, NASA Space Center. (www.carnival.com)

QE2 RETURNS AS HOTEL IN SOUTH AFRICA

Despite financial problems of parent company Dubai World, resort and hotel developer Nakheel, owner of the QE2, has confirmed the cruise liner will be moved to Cape Town in South Africa to become a hotel in time for the Fifa 2010 World Cup.

Nakheel, which owns shares in the South African port as well as P&O Cruises, said the ship would be docked at Cape Town for 18 months. "It has been our intention for some time to provide a short term opportunity to enjoy QE2 as a stationary hotel in her current condition before refurbishment begins, said a Nakheel spokesperson.

The Cunard ship was bought by Dubai World for $100m in 2007. Nakheel, one of the main divisions in the government-owned conglomerate, has been severely hit by the Dubai property crash. It is currently embarking on radical cost-cutting, slashing staff, cancelling projects, and scaling back existing projects as it battles for survival.

Nakheel had big plans for QE2, "ushering in the next exciting chapter of her rich and dignified life," that include building a 6,000 sq yd spa complex. A permanent dock in Dubai at The Palm Jumeirah resort was the original plan. Other structural change replaces the ship's funnel with a glass structure to house penthouse suites.

The ship is now expected to be moved to South Africa under its own power, but the sale contract with Cunard prohibits carrying passengers as a cruise ship. The QE2 will be at the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town, where there is a shortage of hotel rooms. Situated between Robben Island and Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront faces Cape Town's harbor, one of the city's most visited tourist sites, with a string of hotels, restaurants, shops and a marina.

Cunard's Queen Elizabeth is scheduled to be reborn in 2010 with the launch of a newly built ship. Classic ocean liner amenities and services will be featured. Marketing the line's royal 165 years of maritime heritage, a distinguished guest list that has included luminaries such as Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles, Nelson Mandela, and Elton John, the Cunard fleet currently consists of the lavish Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria.. Elegant features aboard QM2 include a planetarium, shops stocked with high end attire from Hermes and Harrods, and a Canyon Ranch SpaClub. The world class dining options include formal afternoon tea served by white-gloved waiters, a glamorous evening dinner in the traditional Britannia restaurant with optional Canyon Ranch spa menu, or upscale Mediterranean fare in the Todd English Restaurant. Cunard is famous for its regularly scheduled transatlantic crossings between Europe and New York, as well as ports of call on four continents. Travelers bestowed the top distinction in the Zagat Survey's categories for best service, facilities, cabins, and dining.

www.cunard.com

Singapore

Auriga Spa @
CAPELLA SINGAPORE RESORT

Sentosa Island

Nestled within the futuristic curve of Sentosa Island’s newest resort hotel, the first Auriga Spa in Asia links past and present. Themed to lunar cycles, treatments with indigenous natural products of Malay healers are experienced in an environment of high-tech comfort. European therapies are here too, but this is a unique window on the East.

Cascading outdoor pools, lush gardens, indoor soaking pool and fountain of shaved ice set the yin/yang contrast: relaxing/energizing, hot/cold. Greeted with mangosteen juice and tea, you enter a water circuit of pools and revitalizing showers. Reiki, shiatsu, and Thai massage are complemented by scrubs and wraps incorporating regional fruits and herbs. Sports massage for golfers and tennis players is another option

Must Try: Auriga New Moon Ritual stimulates and awakens the senses during the lunar new moon phase. Included: foot massage with juniper, rosemary, and fennel oils, wrap with seaweed, eucalyptus salt scrub, energizing massage with rosemary and eucalyptus oil. ($280 SGD, about $192 USD, 2 hrs) Other lunar cycle packages cost $480 SGD, $380 USD. Treatments range from 60-minute facial ($129 SGD, about $89 US) to 60 minute Senja Suny massage ($140 SGD, about $96 USD).

Atop a hill facing the city skyline, the island resort offers glass-walled suites or villas with huge baths. Guests can exercise with state-of-the-art TechnoGym® equipment, swim in harbor-view pools. And a British-era club now houses a sleek Chinese restaurant helmed by celebrity chef. Minutes from Orchard Road, it’s Singapore with a new twist.

www.capellasingapore.com
Email: info@auriga-spa.com

Switzerland

THE DOLDER RESORT

Zurich

Overlooking a city of bankers and culture, the venerable Dolder Grand Hotel emerged from a four-year makeover in 2009 with a spa inspired by Alpine beauty. The sweeping curve of a new wing complements the original hotel’s 19th century elegance. Designed by famed architect Norman Foster (also responsible for Capella Singapore), the new Dolder Resort includes an indoor sports complex, tennis courts, golf course, and walking trails.

The Dolder Spa transports you to the Alps. The Aqua Zone links indoor and outdoor whirlpools, steam baths, dramatic black-tiled swimming pool. Roll in real snow at Snowparadise, a yin/yang energy boost prior to spa therapy in rock-walled rooms that resemble mountain grottos. Pure pleasure, treatments range from La Prairie caviar facial, Swedish skincare by Kerstin Florian, Kenzoki oriental moisturizing facial, to Kerastase hairstyling.

Must Try: three-hour rejuvenation package incldes massage, facial, manicure/pedicure, and champagne (450 Swiss francs). For total privacy, book a spa suite with butler service, your own mudbath or steambath and whirlpool warmed by fireplace.

Exclusive among Swiss spas, the Dolder introduced Medical Wellness Programs staffed by doctors in association with Aesthetics Link, a consultation service on health issues, plastic surgery, and treatments such as Botox.

Enjoy lunch on the terrace: Crisp air, panoramic views of the Alps, medieval city center, and Lake Zurich add a sense of serenity. Truly a Swiss high.

www.thedoldergrand.com
Email: Spa@thedoldergrand.com

Vietnam

THE NAM HAI

Hoi An

Shimmering on China Beach, the spa lagoon at The Nam Hai harbors an intoxicating blend of East and West. Inspired by Vietnam’s ancient architecture, six villas seem to float toward the sea.

Seductive splendor matches rituals from Bali, India, Tibet, and Vietnam. Start with a footwash, traditional welcome for travelers, refreshing and healing. In the privacy of your villa, select botanical ingredients for Sundari facial, Arabian rhassoul scrub, or Ayurvedic abhyanga massage. Bodywork includes products by Traditions D’Orient, romantic baths for two, complete with Champagne and canapés. Oriental rituals take two hours, priced from U$190; other treatments start at $90.

Must Try: The Nam Hai Jade Massage synchronized by two therapists working pressure points with jade-infused oil to dissolve muscle tension with a variety of soothing strokes. ($160 – 60 mins)

The resort has no hotel. Spacious beach villas come with high-end amenities, double shower, posh lounge, and garden with open-air shower. Three swimming pools adjoin the grill and candle-lit restaurant; menu features local seafood, American steak, plus a fresh take on Vietnamese cuisine. Opened in 2008, managed by GHM with the same style as The Setai on Miami’s South Beach, The Nam Hai takes luxury to a new level, honoring the culture of Vietnam.

www.ghmhotels.com Email: spa@thenamhai.com

Thailand

SIX SENSES DESTINATION SPA

Phuket

Escape to a private isle in the Andaman Sea, minutes from Phuket by speedboat. Secluded at Asia’s most lavish destination spa, discover a new world of wellness.

Lifestyle coaches welcome you to spa gardens devoted to traditions of Siam, China, Indonesia, and India. Thai therapists pick herbs for Pra Kob compress made of tumeric, lemongrass, and bergamot, kneading sore muscles with soothing strokes as you relax in open-air pavilion or air-conditioned sala.. Ayurveda treatments are housed in India-style cottage. Tea is served in a Chinese bamboo grove at the heart of this unique spa village.

Must Try: Pra-Trim Siam stimulates lymphatic system with body brush, wash, Jasmine balm, energizing traditional Thai massage (8,900 Thai Baht - 2hrs 20mins).

Live close to nature in a thatch-roof villa, with garden pool and bath, butler service, AC but no TV. Join group exercise and yoga at hilltop fitness center; relax at enormous swimming pool; meditate in tropical labyrinth. Dining options include organic salad at sand-floor restaurant with bio-dynamic wines, pizza oven, grilled lobster; raw food lunch on beach. Drinks include fresh fruit juice, coconut water, coffee, Evian, and Champagne.

There are free bicycles, CD library and computers if you insist.

Not a typical Six Senses resort (Soneva Fushi, Zighy Bay), the destination spa program integrates wellness and lifestyle. Created by Ana Maria Taveres, veteran of Chiva Som, and an international team of wellness specialists, this is a healthy lifestyle village where you can consult Reiki master Nikorn Banjerdiert, psychotherapist Albert Schmaedick, or a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) pharmacist. With an amazing 44 treatment rooms, the range of well-being therapy is exceptional.

Seasonal specials add value. Three-night package 47,000 Thai Baht single, 94,000 double occupancy, plus taxes, service charge.

www.sixsenses.com
Email: reservations-naka@sixsenses.com