I started going to Bliss Spa in San Francisco back in 2005. I don't remember how I got to know about them, but it really doesn't matter because it was love at first sight! I've had many spa "trial and error" experiences and realize that I get what I pay for - I once had an allergic reaction to an extraction done (probably due to un-sanitized tools) and once had a manicurist cut too deep into my cuticles and resulted in major bleeding. Needless-to-say, I've since learned to be very selective when it comes to spas!
With Boston being my adopted home these days, this Bliss location has become my go-to spa. It's relatively small, but the high-ceiling design ensures that there is plenty of natural light coming through the space, giving it a very welcoming vibe.
some tips to ensure you get the best spa experience
I know that with Bliss' pricing, it is a splurge. Since I don't go every month, I try to "reasonably" justify the visits by dividing the cost by 3 (I usually go once every 3 months) and it's essentially one less eating-out dinner per month. I know I'm fortunate that my budget allows for this splurge, and I think the most important thing is that you find a spa you love and your skin loves and that the place is clean, has a responsible staff and offers you amenities to substantiate what they charge you.
With that in mind, I am sharing below the 6 things you should look out for when checking out a spa. Being able to verify these things will help you make your "justified" spa choice and will ensure that you walk out of the place completely happy and worry-free!
my Top picks for bliss pampering
Bliss checks all of the above and that's why they have my loyalty all these years. In case you're interested in checking it out, I want to share what I like and why I enjoy going there so much. I'll start with a few of my favorite treatments that I've been getting since day one.
Not your ordinary spa
While the facials and manicures are awesome, what I always look forward to is what I think sets Bliss apart from other spas I've visited. I always make sure I tag an extra hour to my appointment just to be able to enjoy this little gem, which is their amazing ladies' locker room and waiting room facilities. And here's why...
~ 6 reasons I love bliss so much ~
REASON ONE // The housekeeping staff always keeps the ladies' locker room clean and neat (I mean, just look at those perfect rolls!!).
REASON TWO // An abundance of Bliss skin care and body care products!
REASON THREE // The eucalyptus steam shower (The heavenly combination of eucalyptus-scented steam + Bliss hair and body products + rainshower = Bliss).
REASON FOUR // The wall decors are to die for.
REASON FIVE // I can live in this waiting room forever.
REASON SIX // Last but not least, the amazing service from an experienced crew performed in an ultra chic and clean environment.
something unique at every bliss location
In case you're interested in visiting a Bliss on your next destination trip, there are currently 21 locations across the U.S. and internationally. Majority of them are located inside the W Hotel. And if you know someone who lives at the W Residence, there is a 10% resident discount (Only selected W Hotels have W Residences). What's so cool about these locations is that each one has a little uniqueness to it. While you can expect consistent service level, there's always an element of surprise when you walk into a different Bliss.
~In the U.S.~
Bliss Spa in the U.S. (From top left) // Chicago, Atlanta, Hoboken, Soho NYC, 49 NYC, Dallas, Hollywood, Scottsdale, San Francisco, Fort Lauderdale, South Beach, Washington D.C..
~Internationally~
Bliss Spa Around the World // Barcelona-Spain (row 1), Doha - Qatar (row 2 #1), London - U.K. (row 2 #2 + row 4 #2), Hong Kong (row 2 #3), St. Petersburg - Russia (row 3 + row 4 #1).
The Boston Bliss is located inside the W Boston at 100 Stuart St, Boston, MA, on the mezzanine level. For other location details, visit Bliss Spa site.
I hope you've find the 6 tips in this post helpful in finding a good spa or in re-examining the one you've been going to. I also hope that you've enjoyed the visual tour of Bliss.
What is your favorite local spa? Would love to hear from you! And if you're visiting Boston and would like some recommendations for estheticians at the Boston Bliss, let me know and I'll be happy to share.
Thanks for stopping by!
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