TOP 10 DAY SPA'S

POINT PLEASANT, NEW JERSEY

Salon Du Monde

Best Massage -

We visited Salon du Monde located on Arnold Avenue in Point Pleasant, New Jersey on numerous occasions, having a wide variety of services when determining their ranking for review.

At first appearance, the Spa looks quite small from the outside.  This is deceiving.  Upon entering the establishment, you will note that it is sleek and spotlessly clean.

You are greeted at the reception desk by Bailey, who we found to be very friendly, knowledgeable and accommodating.  Her professional demeanor was very appreciated and often unique.

While they offer a wide variety of services, surprisingly, they do not list a lot of "specialty" massages.  You soon discover why - The therapist, Lisa Muller personalizes each massage to your bodies needs.

Very often massages become "robotic" in nature, where each muscle group is handled in much the same way each time.  That is not the case at this Salon/Spa.

No matter the Massage you request, you are treated to an experience that concentrates on each muscle group with whatever technique is warranted.  Often at no additional cost.

It is not unusual to experience a massage that incorporates 4 - 5 different massage techniques.  Each part of your body is respected and treated as an individual part of the whole.

We do caution that the massage room can become quite noisy during the day, especially on a weekend but when we spoke to owner/operator Daniele Maloni, we were told that this is being considered and corrected.

We are currently reviewing them for facials and nail treatments but at this preliminary point, we have experienced many of their treatments and have always been extremely satisfied. 

The facialist, Maria is extremely knowledgeable in skin care and has a feather light touch and we have never been dissatisfied with any of their hair and nail treatments. Each technician takes into account your needs and gives you personalized attention.

Because of their personally designed techniques, knowledge and professionalism Salon du Monde has been selected as one of the 10 Best Spas - Massage that we have experienced. 

NEW YORK, NY

SHIZUKA NEW YORK

Best Facials -

Shizuka NY was visited on several occassions for their Signature and Geisha Facials as well as their Nagomi Manicure and Pedicures. 

The look and feel are infused with Japanese elegance.  The entire establishment is clean without being stark and imbibes a sense of calm from the moment you enter.  Before or after your treatment you are served tea and cookies in a delicate blown glassware.  They keep close to schedule but you NEVER feel rushed. 

The staff is well versed in the treatments they offer and we found them to be quite helpful.  The sanitation practices were above average including our inspection of the shower and bathroom areas. 

The robes and slippers given for your use during treatments are rich and comfortable. 

As to the treatments themselves, the Nagomi manicures and pedicures were relaxing and pleasantly scented, but what sets Shizuka NY apart from other New York Spas - their Facials.  Their facials are exemplary and have earned them their Aromatherapy Candle Rating .

The Geisha Facial, which includes such unappetizing ingredients as sterilized nightengale droppings left the skin feeling surprisingly smooth and clear.  And their Signature Facial is clearly and by far the best in New York. 

We have had facials by the technicians as well as by Shizuka herself and they are both excellent. Shizuka's is worth the extra cost as the lightness and speed of her fingers makes for a truly unique facial massage.

They are very busy so we recomend that you book well in advance - 2-3 weeks for a mid-week appointment, a month in advance for a Fri - Sunday.

The costs are average for a spa in New York City, with treatment by Shizuka herself slightly higher.

All in all Shizuka New York provides a relaxing, unhurried, atmosphere all with a Japanese flair, but with Western conveniences.

For their unique use of unusual products and concentration on the relaxation of the arms, feet and neck during the facial we have ranked ShizukaNY as one of the top 10 Spas - Facials.