Spotlight on Wellness

From spa days to mindful habits — discoveries we believe deserve the spotlight

In the Spotlight – Wellness Retreat: Vichy Célestins Spa Thermal

A sanctuary of well-being in the heart of France, Vichy Célestins Spa Thermal blends medical expertise with centuries-old thermal traditions. From rejuvenating hydrotherapy to tailored wellness programs, it offers a holistic path to vitality and balance. Elegant, restorative, and deeply therapeutic, this world-class spa is a must-experience for anyone seeking to feel lighter, healthier, and genuinely renewed.

Célestins Spa Thermal & Hôtel: A Wellness Destination Worth Returning To

Read Less

In the heart of the historic spa town of Vichy, nestled within the tree-lined Napoléon III Park, Célestins Spa Thermal & Hôtel***** offers a refined sanctuary of wellness and renewal. Recognized for centuries for the healing properties of its mineral waters, Vichy is a town where health, beauty, and tranquility converge—and for those who know, it’s a place worth detouring for.

Having visited four times, Célestins Spa Thermal has become a personal wellness destination of choice whenever traveling through the South of France. The first stay was at the nearby Ibis Vichy Hotel, a ten-minute walk from the spa. On subsequent visits, the preference alternated between returning to the Ibis and staying directly at the Célestins Spa Thermal & Hôtel, which offers the convenience of a covered footbridge connecting the hotel to the spa—ideal for seamless access between treatments.

Spa and Treatments

Célestins Spa is known for its comprehensive and holistic philosophy, combining the renowned benefits of Vichy’s mineral-rich waters with modern health science. Each program is designed to support physical, nutritional, and emotional wellness through hydrotherapy, expert treatments, and personalized support.

The first stay included a seven-day wellness package, beginning with consultations from an on-site doctor and dietitian. This program also granted access to a dedicated area for tasting Vichy’s eau thermale directly from the source. The experience was both fascinating and unusual: each water had a distinct mineral profile, with some tasting slightly bitter or metallic. Served at a lukewarm temperature and without carbonation, it bore a recognizable resemblance to the bottled Vichy Célestins available in France and Belgium—but the bottled version is naturally sparkling, much more refined in flavor, and far more pleasant to drink. While the source water isn’t exactly palatable, it is believed to offer targeted therapeutic benefits, including support for liver health and digestion.

In later visits, without the full package, access to this tasting area was no longer included—though it was still possible to step inside occasionally with the help of kind guests exiting the space.

One treatment has stood out across every visit: the Trilogie de soins “Signature”. This signature trio includes a thermal hydromassage bath, followed by a warm vegetto-mineral mud body wrap, and completed with a Vichy shower massage performed with two synchronized hands. The combination is deeply detoxifying and restorative. I chose to upgrade to the four-hand massage version—an extraordinary experience where two therapists work in perfect harmony, doubling the relaxation and enhancing the therapeutic benefit. The synchronized motion creates a sensation of balance and calm that is hard to replicate with any other treatment.

During a multi-day package, treatments are thoughtfully spaced out across the stay to avoid overworking the body and to encourage more visible results. On days when only one or two treatments are scheduled, I often add a massage—and one of my preferred options is the Douche de Vichy massage à 4 mains “L’Originale depuis 1896”. This 25-minute ritual combines synchronized massage of the face and body under a cascading shower of mineral-rich thermal water. Refreshing, effective, and immersive, it’s ideal as a standalone option that still feels complete.

Among the spa’s wellness offerings, two programs have been particularly worthwhile:

Remise en Forme: A classic revitalizing package focused on general wellness
Silhouette: A targeted program designed to reshape the body through slimming and firming treatments

When time allows between scheduled sessions, there are many facial treatments to choose from. Among them, my favorite is the Rituel Visage Célestins (75 minutes), a luxurious, anti-aging treatment that uses a collagen sheet for deep hydration. If there isn’t much time between treatments, I opt for the Booster d’Éclat Célestins (25 minutes), a personalized express facial that includes cleansing, exfoliation, a mask, and the application of cream—perfect for a quick, refreshing boost.

A Complete Wellness Experience

The spa’s wellness area is a serene retreat in itself. Guests can enjoy the eucalyptus-scented hammam, multi-temperature saunas, and a glacial footbath specially maintained at sub-zero temperatures to stimulate circulation and reduce inflammation. The water is shallow—just enough to stand in—and, according to the spa’s director, is deliberately kept at glacial temperature to trigger a strong circulatory response. I tested it myself, and the effect was noticeable: my swollen ankle was visibly less swollen afterward, confirming exactly what the director had described. Between treatments, sipping a warm detox herbal tea in the tisanerie offers a comforting contrast.

For meals, the hotel offers a main restaurant and a smaller dining area open for lunch, both of which serve carefully prepared, health-focused French cuisine. I was pleasantly surprised by how delicious the food was—beautifully presented and full of flavor. Healthy cuisine isn’t always known for being satisfying, but here, it truly was. These meals align perfectly with the spa’s overall wellness philosophy.

The facility is consistently spotless, the staff is kind and professional, and spa essentials—including white slippers and Vichy wellness products—are available in the boutique.

Whether for a full health-focused program or a short restorative escape, Célestins Spa Thermal & Hôtel continues to deliver excellence across every touchpoint. With each visit, it has genuinely contributed to improved wellness—restoring energy, enhancing circulation, and creating space for mindful self-care. It remains a destination worth returning to—time and time again.

In the Spotlight – Timeless Favorite: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Oceanfront luxury, impeccable service, and tranquil island beauty come together at this iconic Hawaiian resort. From world-class dining to unforgettable spa experiences, Four Seasons Maui invites you to slow down, indulge deeply, and savor every sunset.

Oceanfront Suite, Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
Uninterrupted views of the Pacific, warm island breezes, and a sense of serenity that lingers long after the sun sets.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea: A Luxury Escape in Paradise

Tucked along the sun-drenched coastline of Wailea, on the island of Maui, the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea offers a level of luxury that feels both intimate and expansive. Since opening its doors in 1990, this iconic oceanfront resort has attracted travelers from around the world with its blend of Hawaiian elegance, flawless service, and breathtaking natural beauty.

I spent five days at this resort, and it’s hard to capture in words just how peaceful and extraordinary the experience was. From the moment I arrived, I felt like I had stepped into another world—one where beauty, hospitality, and comfort flowed together seamlessly. I’ve stayed in many exceptional hotels over the years, but this one left a lasting impression that’s hard to forget.

Upon checking into my suite, I was greeted with a beautiful welcome basket filled with fresh tropical fruits, locally made Hawaiian snacks, fine chocolates, and a handwritten card from the staff. It was such a thoughtful gesture that immediately made me feel valued and at home. These small touches reflect the resort’s dedication to creating not just a stay—but a heartfelt experience.

My suite was nothing short of impeccable. Spotlessly clean, beautifully designed, and thoughtfully laid out, it struck a perfect balance between understated luxury and island warmth. Every detail—from the elegant furnishings to the soft linens and the natural light streaming in from the ocean-facing windows—contributed to an atmosphere of serenity and effortless style.

We enjoyed breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the resort throughout our stay, and although the dining was undeniably expensive, the quality more than justified the price. Every meal was a celebration of flavor, from fresh seafood to island-inspired specialties. One highlight was dinner at Spago Maui, where the fusion of Hawaiian ingredients and Californian cuisine, set against the backdrop of a glowing Maui sunset, created an unforgettable culinary experience.

One dinner in particular stood out—a dish made with asparagus that completely surprised me. I’ve never been a fan of vegetables, especially asparagus, yet somehow this dish was so delicious that I finished every bite without hesitation. That simple plate spoke volumes about the restaurant’s culinary standard: thoughtful, elevated, and unexpectedly satisfying.

The landscapes surrounding the resort were simply breathtaking. Towering palms, vibrant tropical flowers, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean framed every moment in quiet beauty. The grounds were immaculately maintained, and everything—from the pools to the beachfront pathways—was designed to enhance the natural splendor of the island. One of my favorite memories was walking along the beach near the resort in the evening, when a local Hawaiian singer performed live under the stars. The sound of the waves, the soft music, and the breeze in the air made it feel like a lullaby from Maui itself.

Another unforgettable highlight was a full-body massage at the spa, offered in a traditional open-air Hawaiian-style hale facing the Pacific. With the ocean breeze gently flowing through and the rhythmic sounds of waves in the background, it was more than just a massage—it was a complete sensory escape that left me feeling deeply relaxed and renewed.

If there’s one aspect that felt a little less lively, it’s that the location in Wailea is more secluded compared to areas like Waikiki, where you can step out of the hotel and be immediately surrounded by local shops, cafés, and a vibrant street scene. That said, the resort offers a complimentary shuttle, which we used several times to visit Wailea Village and The Shops at Wailea—two nearby destinations with charming boutiques, art galleries, and a few restaurants.

What stood out most about the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea was how effortlessly everything flowed. The staff were gracious and genuinely warm, always attentive without being intrusive. From the welcome basket to the turn-down service, everything felt carefully considered and sincerely delivered. It never felt overdone—just natural, thoughtful hospitality with a genuine aloha spirit.

If you’re planning a Hawaiian getaway and seeking a luxury resort that offers tranquility, world-class service, elegant accommodations, and stunning ocean views, the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is a place I wholeheartedly recommend. It may not be surrounded by a bustling town center, but that’s part of its magic. This resort invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and truly savor your time in paradise.

Feature Your Business – Share Its Story!

Showcase what makes your hotel, restaurant, financial service, or product stand out. Through in-depth reviews and engaging storytelling, we highlight exceptional stays, must-visit dining experiences, and financial tools that empower smarter choices.

Let’s connect to explore how we can feature your business.