I am a few floors above it all, on the deck of the Fairmont Spa at the Fairmont Pacific Rim Vancouver in the heart of the city.
There is an outdoor whirlpool and infrared sauna (bring your swimsuit), or you can relax on a sunbed or meditation pod with organic herbal tea or fruit and herb-infused water. Since I would be having a facial treatment, I arrived about 45 minutes early to take advantage of the Experience Shower (with 12 surrounding water jets and steam) and marbled steam room before my appointment begins. Getting all sweaty afterward would be counterproductive to the effects of the facial.
My esthetician, Allison, promptly arrives to take me to the treatment room, where I will have the spa’s signature VIP O2 Facial. The room is bright and airy, with windows looking over the city, but it is shaded with translucent drapes to keep it cool and private, too. Allison wraps me in a warm cocoon of sheets, and we begin the analysis of my skin. Sensors on the skin measure characteristics such as elasticity, pigment and lipidity, and help determine which Biologique Recherche products will be used for the treatment.
Then, the process begins. It’s a very cool and refreshing treatment – no steaming, hot towels, machines or extractions – just precise movements designed to gently exfoliate, massage and cleanse the skin. It also includes a lymphatic massage of the face and neck, as well as the shoulders and arms, with a Fairmont signature scent of sage, cedar and bergamot that evokes the feeling of being in the forest. Each Fairmont spa has a unique blend inspired by the local area.
I emerge an hour later with super-soft, glowing skin. And the bonus is that I don’t have to rush off afterward – guests can access the spa facilities and deck anytime until 10 p.m. on the day of treatment. You can order a spa “bento box” and local wines to enjoy en robe, or, like me, take some time to meditate and unwind in the sunshine and sea breezes.
Eventually, it’s time to leave this lovely place and show off my lovely new face. Past the waterfalls of the reception area and down the stairs through the elegant woodsy lobby of the hotel, I feel perfectly ready to rejoin the rest of the world.
Willow Stream Spa at The Fairmont Pacific Rim Vancouver
