In my experience as a seasoned spa-goer who’s never one to say no to a great massage, hotel spas in urban destinations can leave something to be desired. They’re often housed in subterranean levels, have small treatment rooms, and lack amenities like saunas and steam rooms.
Set the Scene
You’ll be transported to another world, far away from the bustle of New York, the minute you walk through the double doors leading to the 11,000 square-foot Sisley Spa. The contemporary space exudes French élan, with crisp white tones juxtaposed against chic, warmly colored accent pieces and furniture, and fragrant fresh flowers- fitting since Sisley is a Paris-based beauty brand.
For a luxury experience that feels like a mini-vacation, this spa has it all. The locker rooms are well-stocked with essentials, with the Sisley toiletries being the best part. Other goodies include full-sized take-home hairbrushes, makeup remover wipes, hair ties, and more. The impossibly soft, thick white robes and comfortable slippers set the tone for the decadence to come.
The waiting room is an intimate space with sink-in couches and chairs, and invites lingering with its lineup of bites and drinks. I’m talking about delicious, fresh lemonade, a menu of teas, and elegant petit fours and macarons.
A staircase leads to the nine generously-sized treatment suites, all with top-of-the-line beds and soft, plush blankets to envelop you with for the massage or facial that’s ahead.
Sisley is rooted in a plant-based approach, and its skincare and body services reflect this philosophy by using divine-smelling oils, creams, and cleansers made with botanicals. Possibilities include the 90-minute Supreme Anti-Aging Facial, which features a 20-minute face massage and Sisley’s Supreme Anti-Aging Skin Care Supremÿa, a product with a cult following, as well as the hour-long soothing facial. For bodywork, the Restorative Massage, featuring the brand’s hydrating cream, for either 60 or 90 minutes, is the way to go.
The spa also excels post-treatment. As you reluctantly leave your room, you’re ushered into a relaxation area with loungers topped with blankets and an outdoor terrace. You can read, take a nap, savor a cup of tea, and have a snack. Take your time and savor the moment. You’ll be back to reality soon enough.
Inside the Deep Tissue Massage
Given that I’m a regular exerciser who lifts weights and relies on walking as my primary mode of transportation, my muscles are always beat up. I find any excuse to run down to my corner nail salon and sneak in a ten-minute massage to knead away my knots.
Imagine then what an indulgence 90 minutes of getting out those aches and pains was. My treatment opened with my therapist having me take three deep breaths of a lavender aromatherapy oil to help me get in the mood. I didn’t even have to point out my sore spots. Her hands were so intuitive, going where they needed to go. She was firm, but not overly hard to the point where I was in pain, which has happened to me in massages before.
My enhancement of hot stones further worked wonders to melt away my tension. When I ended face up, and my therapist finished with a scalp rub, I couldn’t believe that 90 minutes had gone by, or remember where I was.
Fast Facts
Location: Soho, New York
Atmosphere: Cool, clean contemporary white, but not cold by any means.
Price Point: $$$
Amenities: Men’s and women’s locker rooms, a co-ed relaxation lounge with a terrace, sauna, steam room, two salt chambers, Moroccan hammams.
Our Favorite Thing About the Spa: The pre- and post-treatment relaxation lounges- the latter features loungers with blankets and an outdoor terrace.
Recommended Treatment: The deep tissue massage or phyto-aromatic facial.
What is the least expensive treatment? Cupping: Available as an add-on for $60. Facials: Phyto-aromatic, soothing facial, and gentleman’s ($235 for 60 minutes).The Sisley Spa at The Dominick in Soho, however, gives new meaning to the term urban retreat. Located on the hotel’s 7th floor, it’s a bright and airy space escape awash in white and amenitized to the hilt. The relaxing, yet effective massages and facials courtesy of incredible therapists are on par.Restorative, deep tissue, and stone soother ($235 for 60 minutes)
What is the most expensive treatment? The 90-minute Moroccan Hammam Experience is $500.
