Go Coconuts: Four Seasons Hotel Spa Does Tropical Massages This Summer

It's a rare occasion that you'll find me at the spa. I'm usually skeptical of that whole schtick because any time I've indulged it has ended in near disaster. The fragrant creams make me itchy, the deep muscle massages make me sore, the oils make me sticky (and itchy), and the hydrating masks and lotions leave my skin feeling dry, red and irritated (itchy!). What starts as a relaxing afternoon ends with me wanting to claw at my face. Not good.

Kudos to Four Seasons Hotel Beijing, however, for restoring my faith in spas. No, it wasn't because they spelled out my first name in flower petals on the massage bed. It wasn't the luxurious pool, fitness facility, five-spout shower, or fully stocked – and may I emphasize large – changing room. All this was fantastic of course, but it was the personal attention, and thus individualized treatments that had me impressed.

The consultant asked me to fill out some forms and thumb through a menu over tea in a spacious, airy lounge, and after some consideration, I indicated the massage I preferred: the Balinese (60 min, RMB 880) with medium pressure. For a facial (60 min, RMB 1280), I gave the consultant information about my skin type, but before we settled on the more common option, the customizable Italian skincare line, Biologique Recherché, she overtly pointed out I was quite sunburned and could use a more gentle product. Ouch.

But she was right – my face was sore and red from a weekend Guangzhou trip spent largely outdoors, and it could use nothing more than a gentle, cool pat with Comfort Zone, an Italian brand designed to be more gentle on the skin and one that wouldn't result in day-after irritation. I did the Hydramemory, which, according to the menu, was excellent for post-travel recovery. And they were spot on.

Families take note: Four Seasons' spa menu really has something for everyone (not just squeamish, sensitive ladies like me) and details on treatments can be found on their website here. For a soothing way to keep cool, Four Seasons is running a summer promotion that gets you a 30 minute Coconut Body Bliss Scrub for RMB 380 or a coconut hydration massage (60 min, RMB 680 / 90 min, RMB 980). You'd have to be crazy in the coconut to miss out on this if you're looking to treat your body and mind to a bout of luxury.

Photos: Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Beijing