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| Santé Spa Hotel Le Germain |
Arriving at the Hotel Le Germain, across from the Calgary Tower, our
vehicle is whisked away by valet and we are speedily checked into a
generously sized king room; it’s quiet, with modern furnishings and
intense colors. The built-in wood cabinetry is oversized and luxurious.
The green aspect of the hotel that stood out the most was the
power-saving system of placing the room key card into a special
receptacle in order for the lighting to remain on. It not only
eliminates lighting empty rooms, but also provides the bonus of knowing
where to look for the card when leaving the room. I particularly liked
the oversized bathroom with an enormous rain showerhead, robes, high end
products and thick, thirsty towels. The superbly comfortable bed, with a
cozy knotted throw, made certain we had a great sleep. Deluxe
continental breakfast the next morning was varied and attractively
presented with a large number of specialty teas and coffees offered.
This
Santé Spa location is a streamlined urban sanctuary located on the top
story of the hotel, along with a fitness area, infrared saunas and
showers. It was my first self-serve reception experience in a spa.
Guests call or book treatments online, at which time they will be
queried regarding any medical conditions as well as their preference for
a male or female therapist and instructed what to do upon arrival.
When
I got to the lounge, I helped myself to a small snack while I completed
the questionnaire provided. The area was well lit without being too
bright, with carefully chosen comfortable seating in neutral colors to
complement the lines and concept of the building. No retail products in
sight. At 3:30 p.m. sharp, my aesthetician, Carissa, led me to a cozy
treatment room, where I donned a wrap and snuggled into a warm cocoon
for the signature Revitalize facial. After a long road trip, the neck,
shoulder and arm massage and the attention to my feet in addition to a
thorough and caring facial treatment was heavenly, especially after the
unaccustomed exposure to Calgary’s cold, dry mountain air. Carissa’s
careful examination of my skin, exploratory questions and deft touch
ensured my complete comfort and satisfaction from the first whiff of
soothing aromatherapy through to the end, which always comes too soon.
Despite
the edgy, modern feel of the hotel and spa, the cutting edge treatment I
received was delivered using traditional and nurturing methods, a Santé
trademark. Back in the lounge, a nibble of rich chocolate and a drink
of refreshing citrus water completed the experience. My taut cheeks and
softly glowing skin reflected exactly how I felt: relaxed, refreshed and
revitalized ... just like the name says. For complete satisfaction, I
recommend making advance reservations for treatment in this smaller,
more intimate spa. Shoppers and downtown professionals, keep this escape
in mind for a recharging respite or to prepare for those festive
events.
Sante Spa Calgary
~ Dagmar White, Spas of America
