| My Whole Body had a Gourmet Taste of Bali With all the Pleasure and None of the Calories at Spa Las Palmas at the Rancho Las Palmas Resort and Spa in Rancho Mirage, California |
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Spa Las Palmas
at the Rancho Las Palmas Resort and Spa offers a full menu of revitalizing
treatments and services. It has an international flavor, and I was most
intrigued by the Balinese Offerings so I chose a Jamu Asian Spa ritual.
Jamu, an Indonesian word which translates as “herbal remedies used internally
and externally for health and beauty” is the essence of the Jamus Ritual.
Founded with a spirit of mission to preserve the indigenous and carry on the
inspiration of Asia, all the JAMU spa rituals blend exotic ingredients and
tradition to create a cross-culture experience. These cherished natural
island recipes gently promote health (body), peace (south), and relaxation
(spirit), a truly healing experience.
And my experience was truly cross cultural, Alek Os, a Ukranian massage
therapist guided this Texas girl through the Balinese rituals in the middle of
the California desert.
Bali Spice is a Balinese village remedy traditionally believed to increase blood
circulation, revive aching muscles and relieve headaches. This time honored
recipe for “suci” which translates as “profoundly, deeply healing” has
been used by rice farmers for many generations.
Native clove, ginger and spices called “boreh” are blended into a body
masque and applied. While the mixture is drying, you relax into an
acupressure style massage for the body and sole.
The Jamu Massage (75 minutes) is a meditative massage combining Hindu, Chinese
and European influences to create a relaxing, rhythmic and energizing massage
experience. This massage offers varying techniques of acupressure, rolling
motion, long strokes and percussion to invigorate the muscles and significantly
increases blood circulation. Imagine being scrubbed with aromatic herbs in a
massage still, having your body freshened with a citrusy, ginger gel, and then
finally finished off with the Bali Spice tropical spice massage oils.
All I needed was someone to lick my body.
But seriously, there is a whole menu of gourmet body experiences to choose from:
FACIAL TREATMENT THERAPIES
Facials are as varied as massages and equally therapeutic. Performed by skilled estheticians, these invigorating facials are designed to suit individual needs and preferences.
Javanese Clay Facial - This cooling and purifying facial is based on Bali’s Volcanic Ash and Earth Clay, creating an energizing and refreshing effect for all skin types. Includes a short massage of the neck and shoulders with Bali Fruit Oils as well as a heated hand and foot treatment.
Antioxidant Facial - This 60-minute treatment is oxygenating, anti-aging facial utilizes ingredients brimming with antioxidants, including natural Spirulina Algae rich in protein, vitamins, minerals and botanical extracts, to combat premature aging and provide skin with a healthy glow.
more facial treatment therapies
SPA KUR RITUALS
Spa Kur Therapies are specially formulated body treatments that utilize elements indigenous to the surrounding desert area. This includes a purification ritual, desert clay spirulina ritual, aromatherapy and herbal delight.
Javanese Royal Lulur Ritual - A traditional beauty ritual from the Royal Palaces of Central Java, Indonesia. A luxurious treatment combining a 60-minute Jamu massage, sweet skin scrub, full body yogurt application, aromatic shower, flower petal still bath, and flower lotion. Completed with a full body application of Jasmine Frangipani moisturizer.
Bali Spice Ritual - Inspired from village traditions using spices to increase blood circulation and relieve aches. Native clove, ginger and spices called “borch” are blended into a body mask and applied. While the mask is drying, relax into an acupressure style massage for the body and soul. Continue with a refreshing shower, flower petal still bath, and Jamu Massage with choice of Island Spice Lotion or Island Spice Oil. This stimulating and spicy treatment is suggested for athletes and those who seek relief from body aches and discomfort.
Volcanic Earth Ritual - This refreshing and uplifting spa ritual begins with a volcanic clay body mask. While the mask is cooling and purifying the skin, a Jamu Massage induces deep relaxation. After an aromatic shower, flower petal still bath, experience a Jamu Massage with Island Fruit Tropical Oil or Lotion.
Bali Sea & Flowers Ritual - This ritual is a tribute to the ocean. A stimulating combination of sea salts, flowers and oils begin an invigorating exfoliation. Continued with an aromatic shower, flower petal still bath and completed with a 60-minute Jamu Massage using Island Flowers Tropical Oil or Lotion.
Spa Las Palmas Purification Ritual - Based on the centuries-old Native American tradition of using medicinal mud, healing mineral spring waters and light massage therapy, the deluxe treatment detoxifies and totally relaxes the body and mind. This two hour, three-in-one treatment begins with an 100% organic black mud body wrap, then a hydro massage in water brimming with thermal mineral crystals, followed by a full body massage using a soothing cream rich in thermal minerals mixed with desert sage essential oil.
Desert Clay Spirulina Ritual - An ancient treatment rediscovered. The Aztec and Mayan civilizations revered spirulina for its nutrient rich properties. Indulge in the rejuvenating effects of spirulina algae harvested from the desert. Spirulina is rich in protein, minerals and amino acids that stimulate circulation, nourishes and refines the skin, and purifies the body and mind. During the 90 minute treatment the body is wrapped in spirulina and immersed in a rejuvenating bath derived from sea algae from France. A luxurious half hour body massage follows the bath using a soothing cream rich in thermal minerals combined with lavender essential oil.
Aromatherapy Experience - A 3,000-year-old purification ritual of rejuvenation during this 90-minute treatment. This unique treatment begins with an invigorating salt exfoliation to remove dull surface skin cells. Next, the body is immersed in an Aromatherapy mineral bath to soothe or invigorate the body, mind and spirit. Following the bath is a luxurious massage using essential oils selected according to the individual mood of the guest.
Herbal Delight -
Three treatments in one, this experience commences with a soothing Chamomile
Body Scrub to cleanse and prepare the skin for the therapeutic effects of the
herbal bath (Pine, Desert Wildflower, Melissa or Chamomile) which follows. A
half-hour full body massage with lavender massage oil finishes this treatment
and leaves you ready to take on the world. Available as a 60 or 90 minute
treatment.
MASSAGE THERAPIES
Massages offer true relaxation and tension release. But they can also energize, tone and improve circulation and athletic performance. Spa Las Palmas offers an array of therapeutic massages performed by knowledgeable massage and body therapists.
Swedish - The perfect first massage to combat stress. This massage uses long, rhythmic strokes to promote improved circulation and induce relaxation. Available as a 30-minute and 60-minute massage.
Aromatherapy - An ancient art using essential oils of plants and flowers in a gentle, effective massage to reduce stress, increase energy or induce relaxation.
BODY TREATMENTS
Bali Sea Salt Scrub and Massage - This uplifting scrub combines pure Sea Salts. Flower petals and Flowers Massage Oil for an invigorating exfoliation. After cleansing your skin with an aromatic Flower Gel, we continue with the Jamu Massage applying a moisture Flower Lotion.
Bali Spice Scrub and Massage - This stimulating scrub begins with Clove, Ginger and Native Spice blended into a body mask used to enhance blood circulation and relieve body aches. While the mask is drying, we follow with the Jamu Massage. After cleansing your skin with a refreshing gel, we complete this treatment with a moisturizing Spice Lotion.
BODY POLISHES, SCRUBS AND WRAPS
Body Polish, Scrubs and Wraps are exfoliating treatments derived from thermal minerals and botanicals in which dull surface skin cells are removed, circulation is improved and skin is renewed.
Chamomile Body Polish - A cleansing treatment which exfoliates and removes dull, surface skin cells, leaving the skin feeling soft, smooth and invigorated. The 30- minute treatment begins with a gentle exfoliation using a granulated pumice stone in a chamomile cream base, as well as a revitalizing Chamomile Bath Gel loofah, and ends with Chamomile Body Spray applied to the entire body.
Thermal Mineral Body Scrub - This two-phase deep-cleansing treatment is ideal for all skin types. First the skin is “scrubbed” using the Thermal Mineral Kur Exfoliating Body Scrub, a granulated pumice stone in a gel base with essential oils and minerals. After the body scrub is rinsed off, Thermal Mineral Kur Shower/Bath Gel is applied to the body with two loofah pads. The treatment finishes with an application of soothing body lotion.
more body polishes, scrubs and wraps
HEALING WATER BATHS
The 30-minute therapeutic baths offered at Spa Las Palmas are based on the European tradition of "taking the waters," which is a centuries old ritual of rejuvenation.
Hungarian Thermal Mineral Bath - The healing powers of concentrated mineral water is legendary. Crystals from the waters of the renowned Sarvar Springs in Hungary form the basis of this therapeutic bath which helps to relax, remineralize and detoxify the body's system, as it helps to soothe aching muscles and joints. For optimum health benefits, this bath is recommended in a series of ten treatments taken in the Spa or at home.
Thalasso Bath - A purifying algae bath based on seaweed and sea water crystals, indulge in the healing properties of the sea to relax and detoxify the body. Designed for both men and women, this treatment is rich in vital minerals and vitamins that nourishes the skin while stimulating circulation and accelerating the body’s natural rate of perspiration which aids in overall detoxification.
SPA PACKAGES
There are six unique spa packages available that incorporate treatments from the list above.
Spa Sampler - A two-hour treatment, includes healing water bath of choice, massage of choice, refresher facial and manicure.
Spa Las Palmas Ultimate Escape - A five-hour indulgence, includes healing water bath of choice, Swedish massage, refresher facial, manicure and spa pedicure, shampoo and blow-dry.
A Taste of Bali - Includes a Bali Scrub and Massage of choice, Javanese Clay Facial and Balinese pedicure.
Gentleman’s Trio - For the sports enthusiasts, includes a Turkish Salt Scrub, Sports Massage and Gentleman’s Facial.
Kur Programme - This is the classic European Kur Programme in the American style of personalized service and includes a Body Scrub, Therapeutic Bath, Swedish Massage, Essential Oil Wrap and Refresher Facial.
Balinese Splendor - Includes the Balinese Ritual of Choice, a Javanese Clay Facial and a Balinese pedicure.
OTHER SERVICES
Fitness Center - Guests can receive cardiovascular and resistance training at the Fitness Center which features state-of-the-art treadmills, Startrac Steppers, Elliptical Walkers, Cybex Equipment, stationary and recumbent bikes, and free-weights with television and vcr use with all cardiovascular equipment. Personal trainer available by appointment.
Spa Pool - Whether seeking a refreshing refuge after an invigorating work out or a grand finale to a therapeutic treatment, guests can cool off in the spa pool and delight in the soothing underwater music of this exclusive retreat. Fresca’s Spa cuisine served poolside.
Gerard Alexandre Salon - Dedicated to the complete enhancement of men and women, the salon offers a full range of services that will pamper both body and soul by a staff of international professionals dedicated to hair styling, hair health with trichology (the diagnosis of problems of the hair and scalp). Manicures and pedicures for men and women as well as make-up application are among the available services to help guests reach their full potential.
Fresca’s Spa
Creations - Fresca’s nutritious, freshly prepared creations are designed with
healthy living in mind. Indulge in freshly baked breakfast breads, fresh fruits
and juices, smoothies and nutritionally balanced menu selections including
delicious entrees, healthy salads and stone fired pizzas in the privacy of the
Spa or poolside. A selection of gourmet coffees and espresso drinks are also
available.
Spa Las Palmas is situated on 250 acres of lushly landscaped grounds and lakes at the award-winning Marriott’s Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa. The 20,000 square-foot Spa features whirlpools, relaxation lounges, Finnish saunas, private men’s and women’s locker rooms with showers, heated Spa Pool with underwater music, state-of-the-art fully equipped Fitness Center, Spa Boutique and spa cuisine from Fresca’s Spa Creations.
For
reservations or more information call the resort at 760-568-2727 or visit www.spalaspalmas.com.
Steeped in rich tradition and history, the doors to Rancho Las Palmas opened in
February of 1979. Many famous celebrities made Rancho Las Palmas their personal
get-away and it was the first resort in the desert to remain open year-round.
Bob Hope, Cary Grant, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans were on hand for the opening
festivities. Mr. Hope was a special guest of honor who hit the first golf ball
on the then new course. On over 250 acres of tranquil lakes and gardens,
Marriott’s Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa features 450 casitas and suites
elegantly appointed with modern conveniences and a flair for the old world. This
luxury resort distinctively blends the sophistication of the famed Palm Springs
area and charm of early-California. For reservations or more information,
760-568-2727 or visit www.rancholaspalmas.com.
You can also find great food in the Valley
Restaurants
Fresca’s the healthy food restaurant at Rancho Las Palmas Resort and Spa.
Try the wonderful latte’s and Chai Tea. You will be amazed at how many
calories chef Miguel takes out of the meals
Sunday Brunch at Pablo's. This restaurant has won almost every award for
best brunch and deserves them all. You will be overwhelmed by the dessert buffet
with some of pastry chefs wonderful works of edible art. Be sure to try the
risotto bar and look for the sushi at the end (or the beginning) of the
incredible array of choices and stations.
The Yard. This new beer hall offers over 150 brews on draft plus some
tasty snacks. A fun place to go with friends or a friendly place to meet new
ones.
Wonderful outdoor Dining. Try the Plaza at Ranch Las Palmas Resort and
Spa. Enjoy a peaceful dinner overlooking the water and listen to the ducks and
wild life in the background. The ducks are so friendly, they often stroll by the
tables.
Ristorante Tuscany. If you love Italian food, Tuscany will be a favorite. Everything
is fresh, fresh, fresh, including the homemade Mozzarella. As you enter you will
see the herb garden. The chef recently won the people’s choice award at the
California date festival and if you get a chance try his fois gras with dates.
Yum
Tommy Bahama. You can get a taste of the tropical even in the desert.
This popular restaurant is known for their cool, refreshing drinks. I love the
lime colada. Dine on the roof and save room for the blondie brownie with
coffee ice cream for dessert.
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