“Ding, dong, ding, dong” – Greetings from the heart of London, dear Luxus readers! Big Ben and I are thrilled to be back in this captivating city and share my recent spa experience at The Connaught Hotel with you. As a frequent visitor, I find London an endlessly fascinating and charming place, a city that keeps pulling me back for more.
It’s no secret that London boasts a unique blend of historical richness and intellectual stimulation, a quality that few cities can match. The city is a melting pot of cultures and ideas, nurturing critical thought without sacrificing creativity and soul. You’ll find London brimming with both!
Londoners are known for their warm hospitality and generosity. You’ll likely be greeted with a friendly “Love” or “Darling,” and a quick kiss on the cheek is a common gesture of farewell. If you’re new to world travel, London is an excellent starting point. And for seasoned travelers like me, it’s a city that always beckons a return.
A Luxe London Haven: The Connaught Hotel
On this trip, I was particularly eager to experience The Connaught Hotel, a luxury boutique hotel in the upscale Mayfair district. This hotel has garnered praise from celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin, who raved about its style and service. The Connaught consistently receives five-star ratings, and I was curious to see if its Aman Spa lived up to the hype.
As I entered the hotel, I was greeted by a captivating blend of classic elegance and modern sophistication. The timeless combination of leather, wood, art deco marble, and mirrors created a cozy yet chic atmosphere. The hotel’s modern design continued throughout the hallways, with white stone accents, plush purple armchairs, and a tranquil Zen garden. The elevator descended to the spa, tucked away in the basement.
An Intimate Oasis: The Aman Spa
I confess, I was a little apprehensive about the spa’s basement location. I’ve often found basement spas lacking in natural light and ambiance, with a somewhat cave-like feel. However, the Aman Spa, despite its size, surprised me. While smaller than I anticipated, with only four treatment rooms and a couples’ room, it provided a more intimate and secluded experience.
A Serene Sanctuary: My Spa Treatments
My therapist welcomed me warmly and led me to my treatment room, ensuring my comfort throughout. The Southeast Asian-inspired suite, adorned with natural materials, featured a vanity room with a sink and private shower. Though simple and clean, the suite lacked any extravagant embellishments, reflecting the spa’s emphasis on simplicity.
After a refreshing foot bath and a cup of hot ginger tea, I was ready for my Holistic Massage. This treatment blended Thai massage techniques with slow, steady muscle work. My therapist, who had over 13 years of specialized training, provided a deeply relaxing and balanced experience. I appreciated the absence of any painful pressure points, ensuring a genuinely soothing massage.
For my second treatment, I opted for the Holistic Aman Signature Facial. This hour-long indulgence was a dreamlike escape. The gentle application of 100% organic exfoliates, serums, and creams, coupled with a honey mask, left my skin feeling refreshed and revitalized. The highlight of the facial was a unique technique where my therapist gently tapped her sticky fingers across my face, lifting my skin with each tap. It felt like a hundred tiny kisses, followed by a calming face massage and a pressure point scalp massage that induced a state of deep relaxation.
A Bit of a Disappointment: The Spa’s Ambiance
The one downside to my experience was the lack of a post-treatment shower in my suite. I had to be escorted through the lobby, past the pool, and to the women’s locker room. It seems a bit odd to have a spa suite without the convenience of a shower after your treatments.
The spa’s pool, however, offered a unique and captivating ambiance. With its darkened waters and illuminated waterfall, it felt like a secret oasis, perhaps reminiscent of Bruce Wayne’s pool in the Batcave. The pool is free for guests who book at least two hours’ worth of treatments.
The Verdict: A Solid Spa Experience, But Not Quite Extraordinary
Overall, my experience at The Connaught’s Aman Spa was a mixed bag. The therapists were professional and the treatments effective, but the spa lacked the unique elements and luxurious touches I was hoping for. The predictable music, absence of distinct scents, and lack of refreshments contributed to a somewhat generic feel.
Despite this, I would recommend The Connaught Hotel for its exceptional style and service, and encourage you to indulge in the Aman Facial. However, you might find yourself spending more time enjoying the hotel’s stunning atmosphere, delightful restaurants, and the captivating city of London above ground.
Aman Spa: 3.5 Stars
