This week, I traveled to Atlanta for a two-night business trip. While I wish I could say business trips are relaxed and stress-free, that tends to not always be the case. Preparing for any business meeting can be overwhelming at times, but when travel is involved, I find it can become even more stressful. Upon your arrival to the hotel, it’s common to feel wiped out before even reaching the business and meeting aspects of your trip. Think about all of the preparation: creating presentations, researching clients, gathering materials, printing examples, packing, driving to the airport, going through security, departing, arriving, getting your rental, driving in a city you are unfamiliar with . . . .

You finally arrive to your hotel, and now what do you do? You’re tired and still stressed about your busy day(s) to come. How do you relax? For me, this week, it was by visiting The Spa at The Mandarin Oriental Atlanta. I settled into my room, did a few last-minute work tasks and made my way to the hotel’s spa. As I entered, I immediately felt a sense of tranquility and calmness. The spa receptionist was very welcoming and escorted me to a sitting area where I filled out a brief form. While doing this, she brought me a warm towel and a cup of the spa’s signature tea.

I was taken into the private spa area and given a tour. While I did not have the time, the whirlpool, sauna and steam room area looked like the perfect spot to begin my spa journey. There is also a lovely terrace with lounge chairs, perfect for sitting outside on a sunny Atlanta day. Because of the time, I had to make my way to the relaxation area, which is where your massage therapist greets you and takes you to your spa treatment room. I poured myself a refreshing cup of lemon- and orange-infused water and waited.

My massage therapist was warm, friendly and accommodating. I enjoyed every second of my 80-minute Oriental Essence Massage. This massage is a part of the Mandarin Oriental’s signature spa therapies and was actually designed for the tired traveler or stressed executive. Feeling relaxed and recharged, this was the perfect way to clear my mind and release my stress before the busy day of business meetings began.

— Olivia Falcione, advertising manager