Raffles Istanbul offers a new perspective on a timeless city, at the heart of the new ZorluCenter, a next-generation bazaar where high fashion, performance, fine food and the arts converge. On the European side of Istanbul, the hotel has sweeping views over the Bosphorus and the Prince Islands.
Size of the spa: 332.290 sq ft
Time taken to complete the spa: Not disclosed
About the spa: One of the key features of the brand new Raffles Istanbul, open September 2014, is the signature Raffles Spa, set to be one of the most comprehensive luxury spas in Istanbul. Like the hotels in which they sit, each Raffles Spa is a tranquil oasis, embodied by the lotus flower, a symbol of calm, as it blooms amid watery chaos. So too, every Raffles Spa is serene space allowing guests to be themselves. Careful emphasis is placed on the choice of spa products for each location of Raffles’ spas around the world. For Istanbul, there are two lines of products and treatments; from The Organic Pharmacy and Gazelli Skincare.
The Organic Pharmacy specialises in creating health and beauty products based on organic, natural cosmeceuticals, medicinal plant extracts and high tech natural molecules. Made in London, the quality of the products is ensured from start to finish. Raffles Istanbul is the first hotel and spa in the Raffles Hotels & Resorts portfolio to use The Organic Pharmacy, chosen by Andrew Gibson, Vice President Spa & Wellness for FRHI Hotels & Resorts, who explains, “The Organic Pharmacy takes great care about the production methods and sourcing of materials for their products. They remain exclusive and will not be found in too many locations – just like Raffles. Raffles Spas are managed by Raffles, but The Organic Pharmacy is aligned with the Raffles philosophy.”
Spa therapies: Exclusive to Raffles Istanbul is the new Organic Pharmacy Rose, Honey and Sugar Hammam Experience (60 minutes). This exclusive signature treatment was designed by Margo Marrone, Co-founder The Organic Pharmacy who explains, “Turkey is the home of rose and honey. This treatment epitomises the luxury of this fusion of old and new, bound up an in age-old ritual.”
Spa facilities: Raffles Spa in Istanbul offers a choice of pools, saunas, steam rooms and hammams. Seven treatment rooms and two VIP spa suites provide privacy for personal treatments. The fitness centre and gym are supported by a personal trainer. There is an indoor pool, hair saloons for ladies and gentlemen.
Design dynamics: The Gallery HBA’s design cleverly draws on Istanbul’s richly layered history and the waters of the Bosphorus, the lifeblood and soul of the city that weaves together the Occidental and Oriental worlds. Throughout the spa the concept of flowing water creates a harmonious ambiance: whether it’s a chandelier made from swirls of glass that emulate currents of the Bosphorus; pendant “bubble” lights hung from the ceiling like droplets of water; or a water sculpture featuring lotus plants as a link to the lotus flower, the Raffles Spa icon, each one is a symbol of the space and serenity of the spa.
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