This year it is also a spa’rty season with spa party packages, special fun events and great room night packages.

Enjoy our Spa’rty Package: Bring three of your friends together for a Spa party. Everyone will enjoy a 60 minute treatment, free bento box lunch and gifts during your spa day. The best part of the day … enjoying quality time together.

Make your reservations and join us for a spa’rty now. Check all of our exciting activities at participating Fairmont Hotels below.When calling from Canada and the US, you must first dial 011 before dialing the phone numbers of our spas in Mexico, Europe and Asia

NORTH AMERICA

The Fairmont Banff Springs 403 762 1772

Spa Season Package

Includes a lovely room in the Fairmont Banff Springs plus:

• 20% off treatments, boutique and personal training

• A spa gift of a KFI travel pack

• $249 per night, per person, double occupancy

Events include:

Learn to Massage for a better relationship with your partner. Yoga mats will be provided.

April 13, 27 and May 4

Spring Colours: Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup is makeup that is actually GOOD for the skin.  See the latest trends and learn how to achieve a sophisticated look in minutes!

May 11, 18

SKINny Talk and Tea: Join us for tea in the Willow Stream spa to discover techniques that will enhance, protect and nurture the skin with the Kerstin Florian spa skincare line.

April 6, 20

Spa Season Complimentary Calendar of Events, Exclusive to Spa Season Package Guests – Call (800) 404-1772 our Spa Specialists to reserve your seat in our informative, fun sessions. Reservations are required to be made 24 hours prior to the session. Please check-in at the Willow Stream spa Reception Desk. All sessions run from 4pm to 4:30pm

The Fairmont Empress 250 995 4650

A Spa Season Package to Find Your Energy

• An elegant room at the Fairmont Empress

• Two pure Ener g treatments at Willow Stream

• A one hour bike rental for two

• $25 Food & Beverage credit

• Use of Fairmont Fit Athletic Wear

Starts at $499 per night per person(based on double occupancy)

Events include:

Spring Fling: Wed. April 18th

• Makeup lesson with our Jane Iredale professional team

• Featuring the latest spring colours and makeup trends

• Makeup application

• Hand & Arm massage featuring Ener g products

• Exclusive 1 night offers – Jane Iredale gift with purchase

• Light Refreshments and lots of fun

The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge 780 852 6041

Spa Season Bed & Breakfast Package

• Accommodation for two in a Fairmont Room

• Complimentary self parking

• Breakfast for two in Cavell’s Restaurant & Terrace

• Two $25 spa credit

• Spa Gift: Kerstin Florian Facial Masque

Starting at $304 per room, per night based on double occupacy room

Spa Season Bed And Breakfast Package unavailable: April 6 & 7, May 18 & 19, 2012

Events include:

Jane Iredale makeup classes: April 12, May 17

The Fairmont Kea Lani 808 875 2229

Spa Season Package:Ho’onanea (Without Care)

Accommodation in a luxurious one-bedroom suite or spacious villa for a minimum of four nights

Two 50-minute treatments (choice of Lomi Lomi massage or Hawaiian Salt Scrub)

Deluxe buffet breakfast at Kea Lani Restaurant for two daily (tax and gratuity included)

One 3 course Dinner for 2 at Kō Restaurant (tax and gratuity included)

Events include:

Wellness and Fitness “Spring into Action” classes including hula hoop class: April 12

The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise 403 522 1545

Spa Treatment Package

• Luxury accommodations in a beautiful Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise room

• Breakfast for 2 adults daily
• One Spa Treatment (60 minutes) per adult. Choice of Relaxation Massage, Chamomile Body Scrub, Thermal Mineral Body Scrub, Customized Facial, Manicure/Pedicure (90 minutes)
• Spa gift of KFI toiletry bag with travel size products

Events include:

Spa Taster Treatments. April 21st

Guests can experience a unique “Taster Menu” of various spa experiences for a low booking fee of $15, redeemable as a credit against purchases of spa products.

The event will include Spa music, refreshments, sample “goodie bags” and:

• Jane Iredale: Power of 3 with makeup techniques and touch ups

• Complimentary Moroccan Oil Blow Outs
• Complimentary Aveda hair style and Prep treatments or Blow Outs
• Kerstin Florian: 15 minute sample hand treatment – scrub and massage.

The Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello 819 423 3099

Spa Season Bed and Breakfast Package

• Includes one night accommodation and breakfast

• Two $25 spa credits per stay

• Spa’rty Gift of a spa blanket, retail value $21

Events include:

Facial workshop

Learn about the products you need to use on a daily basis and how to analyse your own skin type. Practice treating your skin with our B-Kamins line.

April.

Fairmont Mayakoba 52 984 206 3000

Spa Season Reconnect Package

• Accommodation in a Fairmont room based on double occupancy, minimum stay of two nights

• Daily buffet breakfast for two at La Laguna restaurant

• Choice of one 60 minute massage per adult, per two night stay

• Unlimited access to our Willow Stream spa facilities

• Unlimited access to all fitness classes

From $489 per night plus tax and resort fee till April 9th
From $ 349 per night plus tax and resort fee from April 10th to Dec 23rd, 2012

Events include:

Wellness weekend with renowned yoga instructor, Ana Paula Rodriguez: March 17, 19

Program includes Kundalini Yoga sessions, stress management seminars and healthy lifestyle workshops. Guests can choose to design their own programs. For more information, please visit www.fairmont.com/myk/wellnessretreat

The Fairmont Orchid 808 885 2000

Spa Season Package

• Accommodation in a Fairmont room

• Breakfast for 2 daily

• Hiwahiwa or Kane Hawaiian body treatment for two

• Two spa gifts

$688 per night (per person), double occupancy

Events include:

PJ Pampering Party: April 3

featuring night time regimens and rituals from KFI and Skinceuticals, mini massages, steam and sauna.

Call For More Information

Fairmont Pacific Rim 604 695 5550

Spring is Spa Season Package

• One night luxurious accommodation with a spacious marble spa bathroom

• One 60-minute body or facial treatment

• Spa access throughout your stay

• Spa credit of $25 per person, valid on spa products

• One spa bento box lunch

• Starting at $569/night. Based on double occupancy.

Events Include:

“Fit for a Queen”: May 17

Focus on (Jane Iredale) Makeup: Join us for a very special evening – our first major makeup-focused event: It begins with a Jane Iredale makeup specialist talking about and demonstrating the latest fresh looks. Guests may participate in mini lesson applications. Then relax on our terrace, enjoy the spectacular view along with a glass or two of sparkling wine. The theme for the evening is pink. A night for ladies to get together and enjoy!

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess 480 585 4848

Spa Season Package

Relax… refresh… rehydrate… during Spa Season at Willow Stream Spa

Bring your friends and loved ones for a weekend of gossip, pampering and rejuvenation. Spend the day receiving treatments at the award-winning Willow Stream Spa, lounging in our private poolside cabanas (located on the roof of the spa), taking a dip in our waterfall treatment pool or just relaxing in our aromatherapy inhalation room. With 27 treatment rooms, a world class fitness center, a variety of specialty fitness classes, and Nourish cafe, there is something for everyone.

•One night luxurious accommodations in a Fairmont room

•$200 spa credit per room, per night, to be used at Willow Stream Spa

$XXX per night (per person), double occupancy. For a complete list of services and treatments available at Willow Stream Spa, please click here or call the hotel (480) 585-2732 or (800) 908-9540.

Events Include:

Spa Season – Spa’rty Celebration – Weekend May 11th – 13th

As part of our annual Willow Stream Spa Season we invite you to join us for a very special Spa’rty Weekend celebrating mom’s, daughter’s, girlfriend’s and good times. Schedule your Spa’rty event for three or more guests May 11 – 13th and enjoy all of the special features we have planned for you.

•Spa’rty = Spa Party which includes groups of three or more friends booking spa services of 60 min. or more (spa’rty treatment rates begin at $159 per person).

• Special Savings May 11 – 13th on all Spa’rty Bookings of three or more ($20 discount on each service).

•Complimentary Morning Spa Smoothie Bar – 7 a.m. – 12 p.m.

•Nourish Spa Cuisine Lunch – complimentary with a Spa’rty booking of three or more.

•Complimentary Paraffin add on to all Salon Pedicures.

•Complimentary eye treatments by Kerstin Florian International.

•Complimentary lip treatment and Spring make up tips by Jane Iredale.

•Complimentary Group Exercise, Yoga and Total Body Conditioning classes throughout the weekend.

•Special Gift from our Spa Boutique – complimentary for each member of your Spa’rty group.

•Jewelry and Active Wear trunk shows – on going throughout the weekend.

•Extend the fun by booking our Willow Stream Relaxation Hotel Stay package – see website for details.

•Enter to win a Spa Season gift basket valued at $500.

The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa 707 938 9000

Spa Season Package

• Accommodation in a luxurious Fairmont room
• Access to Spa Bathing Ritual (steam, sauna, bio-thermal mineral soaking pools) and outdoor thermal mineral Watsu and swimming Pools
• Complimentary Guided Morning Hikes, Fitness Class, Gym workout
• Complimentary Daily self parking •Welcome bottle of Sonoma wine in room
• Spa Gift of a Willow Stream Tote Bag
• $25 Spa service credit

Events include:
Willow Stream Spa Your Fabulous Face Event: April 19
Join Kerstin Florian Skincare Expert, Katie Buford, for a complimentary skin care presentation: spa-inspired appetizers, local wines, personal skincare consultations and special retail product offers.
(RSVP Requested: 877-289-7354)

The Fairmont Southampton 441 238 8000

Spa Season Pamper in Paradise Package

•Three nights Deluxe accommodations

•Daily breakfast

•Dinner for two at the Waterlot Inn Restaurant

•Unlimited access to Willow Stream, the spa at The Fairmont Southampton

•Any 60-minute Willow Stream Basic Body Treatment per person per stay, including gratuity. (Treatments available include: Bliss in Bermuda Body Quench, Salt of the Sea Scrub, East Meets West Bermuda Stone, Bermuda Aromatherapy Massage, Relaxation Massage, Stress Relief Massage, Up to Par Body Experience, Bermuda Aromatherapy Facial, Customized Deep Cleansing Sensitive Skin, Customized Gentleman’s Barber Face Treatment) Treatments can be booked in our couples suite

Starting at $809 USD per person, based on double occupancy in a Fairmont Room.

Events include:

Spa Season Event: April 10

Mini-facials, anti-aging hand treatments, & make-up applications. Spa-tinis (non-alcoholic) and finger foods plus retail specials and door prizes.

EUROPE

Fairmont Le Montreux Palace 41 21 962 1212

Spa Season Package

One night accommodation in a luxurious double room

• A lavish buffet breakfast in the Palmeraie

• 1 treatment at Willow Stream Spa for him (60 minutes)

• 1 facial massage for her

• Healthy Lunch at the Willow Stream Cafe

• Access to the Willow Stream Spa including sauna, hammam, Jacuzzi, swimming pool and fitness room

• VAT and service charges

Starting at CHF 769 per person, double occupancy

Spa’rty Package:

Bring three of your friends together for a Spa party. Everyone will enjoy a 60 minute treatment, free bento box lunch and free gifts during the day. The best part of the day … enjoying quality time together.

Fairmont Monte Carlo 377 93 50 6600

“Discovery Spa Season”

From April 1st to May 31st 2012

• Minimum one night accommodation based on bed and breakfast basis

• This includes 120 min of Spa Experience “tailor made” to the guest’s preferences: It might either be 30min of scrub, 60 min massage, 30 min “Spa by the Pool manicure”determined at the time of reservation

Added value: 30 extra minutes to enjoy Willow Stream Spa Experience into the Hammam Shower

Gift : Unlimited extra-time to relax around the swimming-pool, sauna, fitness center , spa lounge with healthy drinks..

Spa Event:

“Pole position on beauty” over GP week 24/27 May including Buffet lunch 60 minutes relaxing massage Access to the 7th floor pool terrace overlooking the FAIRMONT HAIRPIN

Rate 420 euro per person

Fairmont St Andrews 44 1 334 837000

Spa Season Spa’rty Package

Gather your nearest and dearest for a fun-filled overnight stay at the opulent Fairmont St Andrews. Be welcomed in the luxury surroundings of your slumber suite complete with girls’ night box filled with chocolate, cookies, champagne and luxury face masks!

For an unforgettable night with personalised touches and fun filled activities, book your stay now at Fairmont St Andrews!

Package Includes

• Overnight accommodation

• Full Scottish breakfast

• An evening meal in The Squire or The Clubhouse Restaurant

• Access to our Signature Spa

• A personalised robe

• Private zumba dancing class

• Champagne Afternoon Tea

• Personalised Make Over

• A 60 minute treatment

• Cocktail Master class

• A girly film in your own personal cinema (subject to availability)

Spa Season Retreat

Celebrate Spa Season at Fairmont St Andrews with friends or loved ones, enjoy our Signature Spa while sipping away with our exclusive Spa Season cocktail after one of our luxurious Spa experiences and finish off the day with a spot of Afternoon Tea!

Overnight Bed & Breakfast Package

•Spa Amenity on arrival

• 60 minute Spa Treatment per person – Choose from Customised Deep Cleansing Facial, Relaxation Massage, Gentle Body Exfoliation, St Andrews Signature Manicure or St Andrews Signature Pedicure

• Spa Season Cocktail
• Afternoon Tea per person

Events include:

Neom Master Class: Find your perfect scent in our Spa master class held by the iconic cosmetic brand Neom! Learn which scents work together and see reviews of upcoming Neom products. The perfect way to spend a few hours with your girlfriends. £5 per person redeemable against any Neom product on the night!

March 13

Body Blitz with Kerstin Florian: Kerstin Florian expert will be on hand with demonstrations and promotions to prepare for those Summer Holidays. £5 per person redeemable against any purchase or booking made that evening.

April 2

Detox your Make-up Bag: Bring your make-up bag and clear it out to make room for a fresh new look. A Jane Iredale professional makeup artist will be offer makeup hints and tips. £5 per person redeemable against any purchase on the evening.

April 24

Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten 49 40 3494 0

Spa Season Overnight Package

• Luxury accommodation in the legendary Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten

• € 25 credit per person per stay off any 55-minute or longer spa treatment.

Starting at € 190 for single Fairmont room, € 220 deluxe double room

Spa’rty Package:

Bring three of your friends together for a Spa party. Everyone will enjoy a 60 minute treatment, free bento box lunch and free Aroma Oil Roll-On. The best part of the day … enjoying quality time together

ASIA

Fairmont Beijing 86 10 8511 7777

Spa Season Urban Relief Package

• Luxury accommodation

• Daily breakfast

• Willow Stream relief massage for one person

• Minimum two nights stay

2250 ++ / per person, per night based on double occpancy

Events Include:

Spa Season Spa’rty in the Willow Stream Spa includes 90-minute deep cleansing facial, 60-minute Jane Iredale makeup, coffee breaks.
888RMB per person – April 12

Fairmont Peace Hotel 86 21 6138 6818

Spa Season Package

• Luxury accommodation

• Daily breakfast

• 60 minute Willow Stream Spa Body, Massage or Facial treatment for each guest per stay

• Spa lunch and spa gift of a Willow Stream Tote Bag

• Minimum 2 nights stay

RMB 4180++ per room per person per night

Spa Season Event – Wellness in Peace:

(May 19 or 26)
• Book any minimum 60min treatment get a complimentary healthy spa lunch with season tea set.
• On the event day guest will get 30min upgrade for any of minimum 60min spa treatment: choice of 30min mini – manicure or 30min shoulder or feet massage upgrade.
• Enjoy a Tai – Chi Class from afternoon 14:00 – 16:30(2 sections).
• A silver Willow Stream Spa Bookmark as our gift.
• Pool side Chinese Massage Demo with Yin-Yang Stone, each guest will sample a short shoulder massage beside swimming pool. (12:00 – 14:00).

Fairmont Singapore 65 6431 5600

Spa Season Package: Find Wellness, for two

Travelling solo? Save the credits for future use or multiple uses on the same day.

• Best available rate for luxury accommodation

• Complimentary breakfast

Customise a day of
Wellness with:

• Two $25 spa credits toward any spa body, massage or facial experience at regular price

• Unlimited access to spa, fitness facilities and pool

• Enjoy one of the following fitness activity (for two):

- A complimentary buddy personal training session (45 min)

- A Complimentary yoga session

• Bootcamp class (60min) – valid on Mon, Wed or Fri

• Complimentary Tennis Court Access for 1 hour, with racquet rental

Above activities subject to availaility at booking.

Events include:

Exercise Expertise: A certified Fitness Instructor will take you through the proper way to exercise with and without machines. Best fitness techniques for the best results in the shortest amount of time.

Mondays and Thursdays 3.30pm – 4.30pm. Register in advance by contacting Willow Stream Spa reception.

Fitness Challenge
- During the month of April. Mon to Fri, 7-8pm. $399. Inquire with spa for more details.

Fairmont Yangcheng Lake 86 512 5701 1720

Spa Season Package

• One night accommodation in a Fairmont Park View room

• Breakfast for two at Essence

• 60 minutes Customize Facial / 60 minutes Relaxation Massage for 2 persons

• Complimentary access to Fitness Center during your stay

• Late check out until 4pm, subject to hotel availability

• Broadband Internet access with complimentary Fairmont President’s Club membership

• RMB 150 for your next visit on spa treatment offer

• RMB 1,000 credit voucher on Spa Membership purchase

RMB 1,388++ per person, per night, double occupancy

Spa’rty & Golf with Willow Stream Spa:

(April 14 & May 12)
• Willow Stream Spa Tour
• Experience Willow Stream Spa Facilities, Aroma Steam, Sauna, Mineral Pool and 60 mins Spa Treatment
• Taste Spa Lifestyle Cuisine Bento Box
• Learn about pre-exercise movements and skin care methods with Q&A
• Lesson at driving range.

AFRICA & MIDDLE EAST

The Fairmont Dubai 971 4 332 5555

Spa Season Dubai Dreams Package

•Luxury accommodation

•2 hour Dubai Dreams Spa package with scrub, massage and express facial for two people

•Breakfast for two

•Early check-in, 12 noon

•Late check-out, 3 p.m.

Price starts at AED1,799. Subject to 10% municipality fees and 10% service charge. Subject to availability.
Offer valid from, 1st April – 30th May 2012

Events include:

Aromatherapy!

Come to the spa at Fairmont Dubai and learn from our qualified Spa Trainer who will talk about aromatherapy oils and their benefits plus demonstrate and discuss our signature aromatherapy experience massage. Enjoy complimentary ayurevedic head massages and leave with aromatherapy goodies. 6-8pm

April 22

Fairmont Nile City, Cairo 20 22 461 9494

Willow Stream Spa Package

• Luxury accommodation

• Bed and breakfast

• Upgrade to the next room category

• Introductory special discount on all massage and body treatment experiences.

$222 per person per night, double occupancy

Events include:

Sham El Naseam @ Willow Stream

Join us as we celebrate our First Anniversary all during the first week of April. It will be a major media event and include:

•Complimentary 10 minute neck and shoulder massage

•Live DJ inside the sky gym

•Fitness classes: Floor Pilates, Salsa Dance, Toning class

•Fitness and Gym competitions and games

•Special offers on the retail item

•Gift from our Nafertari product line: Safaga Read Sea Salts, or Aloe Vera Cream in addition to 25% discount on all of our retail products.

Call for more Information

Fairmont Zimbali Resort 27 0 32 538 5000

Spa Season Bed & Breakfast Package

• Overnight accommodation at the magnificent Fairmont Zimbali Resort

• 90-minute massage or facial of your choice at our Willow Stream Spa

• Full breakfast at the Coral Tree Restaurant

From R3,399.00 per room per night. Per person, based on double occupancy

Events include:

A by invitation only cocktail party. Rediscover Willow Stream Spa, and let our therapists treat you as only they know how. A Lifestyle Cuisine Plus information element will also take place in our fitness centre. May 22

You just never know precisely how a new spa will turn out.

Thousands of details all need to come together for a luxury spa to be perfect; design, equipment, supplies, hiring, training, treatments, products, food and beverage, furniture, retail items all have to be determined and put in place. There are over 1,000 items just on our list of small supplies.

Many people are involved in a spa development and opening. Everyone works together to create a great facility with energizing experiences. Ruth Armstrong, our Director of Spa Openings, worked with Lyndell Nelis our Spa Director on the opening details so I didn’t get to see the final opening product until this summer. I had a lot of anticipation and a bit of anxiety about how the concept turned out and went to see all the final touches in place.

I am very happy to say that after seeing it – I am definitely at Peace.

Each Willow Stream spa is designed to draw on the energy of the place; often it is connected to nature. However, here we connected to the nature of Shanghai the city – merging some of the art deco, somewhat flamboyant past with Chinese tradition.

The spa is built in the new part of the project yet it gives the same kind of quality and environment of the historic Peace hotel. The interior designers HBA (Hirsh Bedner) did a great job, using many of the iconic details to give it a classic feel.

The treatment menu is interesting too – carrying the character of the spa into the menu with treatments like Mystic Peace which uses the mystic knot symbol that is everywhere in the hotel and the spa as the inspiration for a very effective massage treatment.

This is the one I couldn’t wait to try. The mystic knot is like a figure 8. It is not only a symbol of prosperity and wisdom but also a perfect energy flow. Some say simply drawing a figure 8 over and over has a calming effect. This massage was designed to target long held stress knots in the muscles using the 8 continuous movement. My experience with this massage was amazing. I could really feel the stress and muscle release. I am not sure it made me any wiser or more prosperous but it certainly made me feel at Peace. I definitely will have this treatment every time I go to this spa.

Question:
What is the time you feel most at Peace yourself? I think for me it is home with my family on a Sunday night after a great weekend – just the best.

This fresh, inspiring line of bath and products will captivate your spirit with a balancing blend of Bergamot, Rose Geranium, Clary Sage and Roman Chamomile. Following are 5 ways you can experience the line to find your energy.

Pamper your skin. ener•g hydrating body emulsion has a gentle, Vitamin E and Aloe-infused formula that nurtures and protects the skin while it refreshes the senses.  Simply apply it after showering or when skin needs extra moisture to reap the benefits. Bonus: It is full of antioxidants, which will help to protect your skin against environmental damage.

Revive your senses with aromatherapy. Need a quick pick me up? Try ener•g aromatherapy face and body mist. Whether used as a refreshing après-shower body spray or as a facial toner, it will help you  revive your senses throughout the day. It’s made with an invigorating mix of Clary Sage, Roman Chamomile, Bergamot, and Rose Geranium oils. For an added boost to your spirits, use it to scent your room and your linens.

 Soak away aches and pains. After a bath with ener•g organic bath and body oil, you’ll emerge from the tub with a silky veil of moisture protecting your skin. The secret? Organic Sunflower oil, scented with Bergamot, Rose Geranium, Clary Sage and Chamomile. It aids circulation and energizes muscles and joints.

Bring out your natural glow. ener•g mineral body scrub – made with Mineral salts, Clary Sage oil and Roman Chamomile oil – lets you deep cleanse and exfoliate gently but thoroughly. Apply it to dry or damp skin and briskly massage it over the body. You’ll emerge moisturized and glowing.

Treat yourself to a pure ener•g break. Autumn is the perfect time to pamper yourself, before the hustle and bustle of the winter holiday season starts. Our total body pure ener•g treatment – available at Willow Stream Spas starting October 20 – will revive your spirits and help you “reboot” your mind. It starts with a foot bath. You’ll go on to be massaged, exfoliated and moisturized, experiencing a feeling of complete renewal as you emerge with skin that’s silky soft—and a whole new outlook on the day.

Click here for more information or to purchase ener•g products

A couple of years ago, when we were opening our first Willow Stream spa in China at the Fairmont Yangcheng Lake, we had an exceptionally good group of colleagues as the opening team. They were quick to learn, enthusiastic about the brand and the spa and very technically proficient. Ruth (who opens our spas) and I could not speak a word of Chinese, so there was a lot of sign language and luckily many people on this team were also learning English.

Amongst this already terrific team there was one person who stood out to us. His name is Richard and he is our Fitness trainer and leader in the fitness area.

We saw his enthusiasm and his natural leadership abilities immediately. As an example, he noticed that we needed some extra help and organization for cleaning and set up in the days leading up to the opening. He simply took charge of a whole group of people not really in his department, without being asked, and he organized and led them to help us. His English was limited at the time but communication was easy regardless. Among the words he knew were “yes”, “ok” and “great”.

Last time I was back, he had organized teams to do presentations for me about the brand (we have a secret dance that we teach). It was fun. This time I learned from the General Manager how much the guests liked him as a swimming teacher for their children. All these things are outside of his regular job.
This trip I also noticed how much his English had improved. He is a quick learner and determined in this area. I know he is reading this as he tells me that reading my blog is one more way he is learning English!

The fun part for me was that his improved English allowed me to learn more about his family, leadership, his extensive background of athletics and his future goals. Oh, by the way, he is a talented personal trainer. I learned a lot during my sessions with him. He is encouraging and uses the word “great” a lot, not surprising given his attitude in general.

There are many examples of people just like Richard on all of our teams and in the next few months, I will introduce you to others.

In the meantime, “HI RICHARD – I know you are reading this. Please say hi to the rest of your GREAT group of colleagues”.

Question: I would love to hear about other GREAT Willow Stream colleagues that you have met. Please let me know of someone special we could recognize.

Here is the inside scoop on some great ways to enjoy some popular Willow Stream Spas.

Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Yangcheng Lake. This hotel in Kunshan–located on Yangcheng Lake Park and surrounded by lush gardens– is the perfect base for a journey to China. If you’re looking for an experience you’ll never forget, spa director Jenny Gray recommends The Lady Yang, a 120-minute, flower-infused bathing ritual, inspired by the legendary Chinese beauty Lady Yang Gui Fei. “We convert her history into our signature treatment,” says Gray of the ritual, estimated to be 5,000 years old. It includes a chamomile foot soak, exfoliation, a flower-accented bath, and a lavender and edelweiss massage and wrap. Need to unwind after a busy day? Try taking a dip in one of the therapeutic mineral pools, she suggests.

After your treatment, visit the spa’s tea room, Zhú Li Gua˘n, where, in addition to antioxidant rich Bi Luo Chun green tea, you can enjoy refreshments from healthy muffins to delicious bento boxes that combines local and Western cuisine, recommend Gray. “This is where our customers will find their energy,” she says. Much of the deliciously fresh spa cuisine—from tomatoes to melons—comes from the spas’ organic farm, about five minutes from the hotel.

Fairmont Zimbali Resort. Located on South Africa’s east coast, this hotel offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean in a uniquely decorated environment that reflects the Zulu heritage of the region. At the luxurious Willow Stream Spa, located on two stories of the property, you’ll be able to indulge in many authentically local experiences. Spa director George Pindak suggests the Detox Intonga Foot Treatment, where the intonga stick is used to massage the calves. Pindak notes that many guests at the spa enjoy trying the Africology range of products, made locally using native plants such as marula. “They use a lot of rooibos, an organic plant we use in our teas,” he adds.  If you’re looking to stay in shape while on vacation, there are plenty of options, from yoga classes to nature trail walks at sundown, says Pindak. After you’ve enjoyed the spa, you can relax in the great room, decorated with soft, draping curtains that create a cocoon-like atmosphere. “It looks out onto a beautiful pool area and outdoor mineral bath,” he notes.

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa. Enjoy wine country in Sonoma Valley and nearby Napa Valley this year at this historic four-star hotel. The 40,000-square- foot Willow Stream spa—highly rated by Travel + Leisure magazine—is among the only luxury spas in the country with its own source of thermal mineral water. When the hotel received the prestigious Fodor’s Choice Gold 2010 Award Winner (http://www.fodors.com/fodors-choice/gold-awards/2010/best-resort-or-destination-spas-7/), a Fodor’s reviewer highlighted the spa and pointed to treatments like the signature Bathing Ritual, as well as the flotation experiences, where guests can experience weightlessness on our flotation table. The spa is also known for using treatments incorporating local ingredients like – you guessed it!—grapes. Try the Sonoma Grapeseed Body Scrub, filling with natural antioxidants to keep your skin looking its best.

But, let’s face it, sometimes life intervenes. If you’ve found that it’s been a while since you took care of yourself in a way that makes you feel great, we’ve got some good news for you. By taking just a few small steps every day, you can start the momentum going in a positive direction. Before you know it, you’ll be back on track.
There’s no better time to take the first steps than Spa. This spring, you can enjoy a bounty of special offers and gifts at the Fairmont Spas and our world-class Willow Stream Spas as we celebrate Spring from April 1 – May 31. Whether you treat yourself to a Sp’arty with friends or a one-hour facial, you’ll feel far more energized than you would if you let another week go by without recharging your battery.

Here are some small steps you can take now to move the needle on your personal wellness in the right direction.

• Book a one-hour massage – for next week. If your body feels tight and creaky after a long winter, it’s the perfect time to loosen up your muscles and joints so you can spring into your fitness routine. Willow Stream Spas offer a variety of ultra-relaxing massages, from the Stay Active Relief Massage to ease the aches and pains of working out to the firm but luxurious Hot Stone Massage. If you need more intensive TLC, we’ve got a whole Stay Active Rx program to help you.

• Squeeze in a 10-minute walk today. Even if your schedule is booked solid, you can probably find a few minutes for a stroll around the block. You’ll clear your head and remind yourself of how great it feels to be in motion.

• Do five minutes of the “basics.” Set a timer and take a quick breather sometime today to do as many sit-ups and push-ups as you can while you take five. You’d be surprised at how much you can get accomplished – and the results you’ll see in a week or two if you stick with this small step every day.

Once you’re ready for a more extensive fitness routine, our spa team can help you design a customized program that will keep you feeling your best.

• Commit to eating one ultra healthy meal today. Trade in a pastry for a bowl of whole grain cereal and milk at breakfast. Or add a salad to your dinner. The difference that seemingly simple changes like this can make in your energy level may amaze you!

Sometimes, daily life can be so demanding that it’s near-impossible to get moving on your own. If you need some motivating, treat yourself to the Spa Season Bed & Breakfast Package, which includes a relaxing overnight stay. You’ll get one night’s accommodation plus a healthy breakfast the next morning. You can step out of the daily grind, unwind and use our exercise facilities with help from our on-site trainers. And you’ll receive $25 in spa credits that you can use when you come back in the future – more motivation to stick with the healthy changes you’re making.

People often ask us if spa therapies really work. There is an important new resource for everyone to use that consolidates independent scientific research studies from around the world for the many of the therapies provided in spas. This was compiled by medical doctors.

Here are just 5 ways that going to the spa can help you achieve your wellness goals. (To learn more, check out the Global Spa Summit’s Evidence-Based Portal for Spa & Wellness Therapies

More energy: An aromatherapy massage offered more relief than a massage by itself, according to Japanese researchers. (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18637761)

Better endurance: A recent study (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16877041) concluded that three weeks of sauna bathing after exercise improved endurance runners’ performance, increasing plasma and red cell blood volume.

Stress relief: Research at University of California (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21035949) found that meditation fosters positive psychological change – while helping to increase telomerase activity, an indicator of longer-term cell viability.

Enhanced blood sugar control: Qi gong relaxation exercises improve glucose metabolism and help reduce insulin resistance, according to research findings (http://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/25/1/241.long) in Japan.

A better diet: Getting nutritional counseling can help bring real improvements to one’s eating habits.  (http://www.globalspasummit.org/index.php/spaevidence#/nutritional-counseling).
Give your health a boost and book a spa day today.

Clear the decks. If you’ve got a vacation on your calendar, plan ahead so you don’t have to catch up on work or respond to emails while you’re away. “Be proactive,” advises Kris Cavanaugh (author of Stuck to CEO – How to take Back Control of Your Personal and Professional Life…), who coaches clients on how to become “CEO” of their lives at ShiftTM, Inc. in Atlanta. “You really need to choose to leave work at home.”

Allow some decompression time. If your lifestyle is very intense, don’t expect to relax fully on your first day of vacation. Sometimes it takes a day or two to decompress, says Cavanaugh. If you’re accustomed to a busy schedule, you may prefer a full day of activities over chilling out at poolside.

Connect with a spa buddy. What could be more fun than spending a summer afternoon catching up and laughing with a good friend? Pick up the phone now and make a date to head to the spa. Why not try a new class together, then lunch on some delicious spa cuisine?

Spas are designed to be relaxing on many levels, so allow yourself time to savor all the details. Ali Kamen, owner of Zenergy Yoga in Scottsdale, Ariz., which provides yoga classes to the Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale, loves the aromatherapy room there. “It’s quiet and still,” she says. “You can go in there and just breathe. It will calm your body.”
Experiment with yoga. “There are 31 flavors of yoga,” jokes Kamen. Sometimes, you may have to take a few types of classes to find the one you like best. Willow Stream Spas make it easy, by offering a full range.

Connect with yourself. No matter what fitness classes you take, free yourself from comparing your progress with others. Tune into your own body and you’ll get more out of it.

Stay in the moment. Whether you’re getting a massage or standing in line at the store, taking a few seconds to breathe deeply – and free your mind from other cares—can be a great way to restore your energy, says Kamen. “Breathe in for a count of five, then breathe out for a count of five,” she says. Do this for five minutes and you’ll feel completely refreshed, she says. Remember, a day at the spa is just a phone call away!

The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morten This compelling tale, spanning several generations of women in one family, explores the mysterious origins of a young adopted girl and illuminates the power of our childhood imagination.

The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts by Gary Chapman. One of the most important secrets to fulfilling relationships is connecting with our mates in a way that is meaningful to both. Chapman, a longtime marriage counselor, explains how to figure out what communication style will make your significant other feel most loved, whether it’s affirming words or a focused time together. if you haven’t read this perennial New York Times bestseller, you won’t regret stowing it in your beach bag.

Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand: A Novel, by Helen Simonson. This whimsical first novel introduces widower Major Ernest Pettigrew, a traditional Englishman, who forms an unexpected friendship with a Pakinstani shop keeper as he tries to keep his relatives from selling an antique shotgun that belonged to his brother.

Love of My Youth by Mary Gordon. In this novel by critically acclaimed author Gordon, a couple – once romantically involved in their youth– meet many years later in Rome. It’s a must-read for anyone who has pondered the power of first love.