As one of the seven Underwater Wonders of the World, Palau is blessed with one of nature’s most coveted indigenous spas, the Milky Way, as well as Bali-inspired Mandara Spas, located at two of the destinations most prestigious resorts.
The Milky Way…
one of nature’s most coveted indigenous spas
Sometimes, the best spa treatments are found right at the source and that’s where Palau rises to the occasion. One of the most popular attractions for those visiting this archipelago of more than 586 islands is at the foundation of a special cove locals call the “Milky Way.” The creamy water gives off a cloudy mystique, its bottom covered not by the sand one might expect, but instead white limestone mud, which gives the water a milky sheen. It is rumored that the mysterious chalky mud makes an excellent rejuvenating facial, so tour guides make it a must-see pit stop for passengers visiting the Rock Islands.
Once safely ensconced in the secluded cove, guides abruptly dive off before the boat is even anchored, diving down to the floor of the inlet to return with a huge handful of the white muck. Depending on the personality of the group, guides will either start playfully slathering the pungent mud upon the passengers, which often turns into a “mud fight,” or they will pull up buckets of the healing balm, which guests can apply themselves. Once covered in the creamy substance, passengers are instructed to relax and bask in the sun, while the clay dries and the minerals work their magic. Once sufficiently dry, literally cracking at the seams, it’s time to jump into the milky water, rinse off and relish in the benefits of this natural body scrub that is said to fetch hundreds of dollars in some of the world’s best spas.
Mandara Spas
(Bali-inspired tradition, located at the Palau Pacific Resort and Palau Royal Resort)
In Bali, the healing arts are passed down from generation to generation, from mother to daughter; from father to son. Mandara Spa was founded upon this peaceful Balinese ritual and the critically-acclaimed custom embarked upon its spa journey with a simple desire to pass this healing knowledge on to all those seeking solace and relaxation. Today, there are over 70 Mandara Spas in all corners of the world, each maintaining its reverence for Balinese traditions. Because Micronesia does not itself have a tradition in the healing arts, they have adopted this tradition as it aligns well with Palau’s customs.
Mandara Spa – Palau Pacific Resort
The 160-room Palau Pacific Resort is nestled among 64 acres of lush tropical gardens with exotic flowers on the western shore of Arakebasang hamlet in Koror. Combining the true spirit and culture of the islands with a tranquil ambiance and beauty, the resort is a premiere destination for scuba divers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Featuring a private 1000-foot blanket of white sand beach, the property recently constructed the Elilai Spa by Mandara, which is a perfect retreat, located at the secluded end of the property, taking advantage of its peaceful, soothing surroundings. The Spa Villas are built on an elevated area overlooking the private ocean bay, comprising of two double Deluxe Spa Villas and three single Spa Villas. The double Villas feature in-room private bath, steam shower and relaxation deck. The Tranquility Centre is located next to the beach offering an amazing ocean view, housing the Spa Reception, retail Boutique, manicure and pedicure area.
There are several treatments, but the signature options at Mandara Spa – Palau Pacific Resort are as follows:
- Milky Way Escape: This luxurious package begins with a refreshing peppermint foot ritual followed by an aromatic coco vanilla body scrub to soften the skin and prepare for the detoxifying white body mud, which will set while the guest is wrapped in a comforting spa cocoon. Next, the guest will luxuriate in a Milky Way bath, soak and finish with a muscle melting warm stone massage.
- Mandara Massage: The signature treatment is performed by two therapists working together with a unique blend of five different massage styles – Shiatsu, Thai, Hawaiian Lomi Lomi, Swedish and Balinese.
- Elemis Skin Specific Facial: The facial combines the power of absolutes with true premium grade essential oils, to treat the skin at the deepest level, gently but surely. Specialized Eastern massage movements help to stimulate and oxygenate skin, whilst bringing the body and mind into balance.
- SPA OFFER: Valid through 12/31/10: Go to: http://www.mandaraspa.com/spa/Koror-Palau-Pacific-Resort.aspx for choice of complimentary Refresher Facial or Back Massage, when another treatment is purchased AND 10% off selected retail item, when making a booking
| Mandara Spa – Palau Royal Resort | ||
Palau Royal Resort is located amidst the captivating beauty of one of the world’s most magnificent seascapes and the famous Rock Islands. Operated by Nikko Hotels International, the six-storey resort features 157 guestrooms and suites overlooking the panoramic view of Palau’s pristine waters and extensive recreational facilities.
Mandara Spa is located at a secluded part of the resort, offering three double and two single Deluxe Spa Suites, with private outdoor bath, steam shower and relaxation area overlooking the landmark Rock Islands. The main building houses the reception, retail boutique, relaxation lounge and manicure/pedicure area.
There are several treatments, but the signature options at Mandara Spa – Palau Pacific Resort are as follows:
- Ultimate Indulgence: An exotic, luxurious and unforgettable experience of indulgence, featuring Aromatherapy Floral Footbath; Lavender Body Wash; and choice of Traditional Body Scrub, Aromatherapy Floral Bath or Herbal Steam, Mandara Massage, Refresher Facial or Foot Massage
- Mandara Massage: The signature treatment is performed by two therapists working together with a unique blend of five different massage styles – Shiatsu, Thai, Hawaiian Lomi Lomi, Swedish and Balinese.
- Elemis Skin Specific Facial: The facial combines the power of absolutes with true premium grade essential oils, to treat the skin at the deepest level, gently but surely. Specialized Eastern massage movements help to stimulate and oxygenate skin, whilst bringing the body and mind into balance.
- SPA OFFER: Valid through 12/31/10: Go to: http://www.mandaraspa.com/spa/Koror-Palau-Pacific-Resort.aspx for choice of complimentary Refresher Facial or Back Massage, when another treatment is purchased AND 10% off selected retail item, when making a booking
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