AIRPORT ZEN

I just got back to California from Asia and have to share a new travel trick.

Thai massage

Most airports now have massage areas - either chair or table massages - to while away the time at the airport.  But far from being a lazy luxury, massage actually helps a lot during a long flight.  Due to my improved circulation, this was the first time I had a 10+ hour flight where my legs did not get swollen nor my back uncomfortable.

My sister and I had one-hour full body massages on tables, fully-clothed.  The masseuses performed shiatsu treatment, particularly on the back and legs, as well as a variation of Thai massage stretching the arms, legs and back.  The deep stretches felt like a pre-flight yoga class.  They also did lightly-oiled massages on the neck, scalp and face which were so relaxing.

If you can't get a massage at the airport prior to a long flight, working out before you head to the airport achieves similar results.

Addendum:  Another benefit is that I did not experience jet lag for the first time after that trans-Pacific flight!  The healthful effects of the massage extended into a restful flight and a good night's sleep back in my own bed.

Happy Travels!

CHI SPA

I am still in Asia and am seeing my entire family complete for the first time in many years.  At one time, we were scattered across 3 continents.  So on special occasions like these, my sisters and I sometimes get together for some girl bonding.  This time, we decided to go to the Chi Spa in the Shangri-La Hotel.

Shanri-La Chi Spa's private soaking pool

We've been to spas around the world but agreed that this was the best spa treatment we had ever had!  The private treatment rooms included our own bathroom and changing area.  We were first led to our own outdoor soaking pool with sea salts and flower petals.  We found ourselves giggling as we floated around the pool.  Then, after steaming up, we proceeded to have a Coconut and Cardamom scrub with a "secret recipe" egg yolk wrap followed by Gugo (coconut bark) Hair Treatment.  It was nice for all 3 of us to be all together in a private treatment room.

Shangri-La Chi Spa private treatment room

Even though a family emergency had brought us all together, it was wonderful to spend a few hours just being together as sisters.

What was your favorite spa experience?