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Welcome to the second iteration of Vogue’s global spa guide, an index of the 100 best spas in the world, built from the expertise of our global editors and trusted contributors. There is a lot to choose from in the world of wellness, and no matter how far you’re planning to travel—from a subway ride to a trans-Atlantic flight—we want to make sure it’s worth the journey. Whatever your path, let us be your guide.
Why go here?
A trip to the spa is a luxury, an indulgence! If you’re going to pamper yourself, why not do so at a luxury hotel marked by sleek decor, a staff that anticipates your every need, and fresh flowers at every turn? The Columbus Circle location is walking distance from Bergdorf Goodman, Central Park, and two Shake Shack locations (accommodating a range of post-spa interests); the 35th-floor views are sweeping and stunning; and the spa’s therapists are some of the most skilled in the city. Several masseuse and estheticians have been with the Mandarin Oriental for more than 15 years, owing some of that tenure to the perk of traveling to other properties around the world to learn new treatments and spend stints of time living in a far-flung location.
What’s the vibe?
Sun-denched common areas, endless pours of hibiscus tea, and an alcove featuring a jacuzzi, sauna, and amethyst steam room make for a space you’ll want to relax in all day. The hotel’s signature scent—a calming blend of orchid, osmanthus, white tea extract, and yes, mandarin zest—wafts throughout the spa, which is a cell phone- and shoe-free space. In between treatments, you can kick back on a plush chaise lounge and take in the views while noshing on fruits and chocolates. A somewhat unique offering, tapping into the adult coloring trend: colored pencils and a sheet of paper are available for some meditative art.
The history?
What started with a single hotel—The Mandarin in Hong Kong, opened in 1963—has since expanded to a portfolio of 43 properties, known as much for their luxurious accommodations as their world-class spas. The Mandarin Oriental opened in New York in 2003, and the spa quickly became a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Occupying 20 floors in the north tower of the Deutsche Bank Center, the hotel is a serene escape in the heart of NYC, where you can get a martini on one floor, a massage on another, or hit the gym in the morning before meetings in the hotel’s boardroom.
What should you try?
Among signature treatments are Time Rituals, which include a customizable mix of massage, facial, and body wrap therapies, and can be booked for up to two hours and fifty minutes. Exclusive to New York is The Clearing Factor—an hours-long treatment marked by exfoliation, lymphatic drainage massage, and cupping. The spa touts the treatment as one “dedicated to restoring the body to a state of balance and vitality,” which is likely much needed if you live and work in NYC.
How environmentally friendly is it?
The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group prides itself on its efforts to protect sustainability. Gail Cowper, senior marketing and communications manager, and a member of the hotel’s sustainability committee, stated they’ve stopped using single-use plastic at all their properties worldwide. “Our spa also follows hotel protocols for waste and energy management, including a strong recycling program. From adding water flow restrictors for our showerheads, installing new insulation jackets for steam station Spence valves, and regular energy and system audits, we constantly work on improving our offerings with sustainability in mind,” Cowper said.
What else do we need to know?
If you really want to treat yourself, consider booking the VIP suite. The 650-square foot space features a fireplace, traditional oriental furnishings, and two massage beds. While it’s great for couples, having it all to yourself is just as—if not more—lovely. To recreate the atmosphere in your own home, you can shop a selection of scents and beauty and wellness products from the spa.
Who can go?
The spa is open to locals, tourists, and hotel guests daily, with the space reserved for adults 18 years and older.
Booking details for Spa at Mandarin Oriental, New York
Address: 80 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10023, United States
Read more from Vogue’s Global Spa Guide.
