FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Recharge and Renew at The Spa at Four Seasons Philadelphia

by Kristy Alpert

May 23, 2022

PHOTO: © FOUR SEASONS

April/May 2022

As a mom, you’re not allowed to pick favorites. With a growing baby in my belly and a toddler guiding my daily routines, my own favorites often take a back seat as I make the daily choice to swap healthy foods for junk food cravings and toddler tunes for windows-down, volume-up jams. But when I heard my favorite spa was relaunching its facial program, I felt zero guilt — of the mom variety or otherwise — about taking a morning off and booking myself a nice, long, rejuvenating facial at The Spa at Four Seasons Philadelphia at Comcast Center.

“I am going to start this off the same way I start it for all my moms that come through here,” began Jenny Gaus, my spa aesthetician during that 90-minute collagen renewal facial. “Take a deep breath and remember: Taking care of yourself is exactly like what they say on the airplane, to ‘put the oxygen mask on yourself before helping others.’ You taking care of yourself first will be the best way you can help anyone else in your life. Now, relax and take another deep breath.” And with that she tapped a wooden mallet against a crystal singing bowl, and I slowly allowed my tired body to melt into the warmed, plush bed of her treatment table.

PHOTO: © FOUR SEASONS

The Spa at Four Seasons Philadelphia resides on the 57th floor of Philadelphia’s tallest building, where arriving by glass-encased elevator becomes part of the surreal experience. Although the elevator travels at 11 mph to reach its destination, you encounter a decidedly different pace upon arriving on the 57th floor — likely due in part to the more than 700 pounds of energy-nurturing crystals embedded in the walls of the entire level. A blend of mechanical-diffusing crystals — such as pyrite, obsidian and clear quartz — placed near the elevator, electrical room and fitness center help offset the electromagnetic frequencies. Meanwhile, a calming mix of crystals — including rose quartz, moonstone and lepidolite — charge the relaxation lounge, salon and staff areas with an energy almost observable in the demeanor of the spa attendants and staff members.

When the spa first opened in August 2019, the striking balance between low-tech and high-tech was an intentional decision, one that becomes more and more relevant as guests continue seeking recharging experiences after a tumultuous few years. But it’s not only guests who get recharged at the spa. Every six months a certified crystal healer comes in to re-energize the space and ensure the crystals remain active. Each treatment room carries its own calming energy. A single crystal dominates the theme of each space, and guests book treatments that coincide with the specific qualities and attributes of each room/crystal including rhodochrosite, carnelian, citrine, malachite, turquoise, kyanite, amethyst and clear quartz. My facial took place in the amethyst room, a crystal that coordinates with the crown chakra by enhancing intuition and removing negative thoughts and emotions while promoting a calm state of mind.

Among the spa’s entire range of body wraps, massages, salon services and exfoliations, the signature treatments stand out, especially the Seasons of Chakras Massage. During the relaxing, 60-minute essential oil massage, a therapist stimulates all five senses. Reiki sessions and a sound energy healing session book up quickly throughout the week. The latter lasts for 105 minutes and comes with a complimentary chakra set of crystals for guests to take home and continue their healing journey in their own spaces.

The breathtaking views and rare opportunity to swim in an infinity- edge pool on the 57th floor inspired the facility’s most exclusive experience, and so, in January 2021, the spa hosted its first Night Spa experience. The experience has become a favorite for couples, even today, as the evening begins with a runway of candles guiding two lucky guests to their makeshift spa above the clouds in the empty pool room. It continues with an intimate 60-minute couple’s massage and a private swim above the twinkling lights of the city below.

The shared time in the treatment rooms or relaxation room, where anti-gravity chairs strategically look out over the streets of Philadelphia, makes this a favorite among couples. But for me, it’s become my favorite place of solace, a place that reminds me time for myself is not selfish but rather a gift that recharges my inner being. Then, I can recharge those little gemstones waiting for me back home.

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
Nov 1, 2024

Check Out The Beach Terrace, The Only Carlsbad Hotel Directly on the Sand

Looking for the perfect destination to unwind and savor the final days of fall or first weeks of winter? Check out the sunny California town of Carlsbad. Located just 45 minutes north of San Diego, Carlsbad embodies the classic Southern California lifestyle for those looking for that winter escape without the chilly temperatures. The 48-room Beach Terrace is Carlsbad’s only hotel directly on the sand, and with November and December weather still in the 60s and 70s, it is an oasis of relaxation to soak up the sun without the summer crowds.

Remarkable Medellín

Visiting Medellín in Colombia: The Country of Beauty is like stepping into a fantastic story — literally, as the city in the Western Colombian Andes region inspired Disney’s Encanto. Here, valleys, the world’s tallest palms, vibrant communities, colorful houses, garden-like balconies and more prove reality is more picturesque than anything on film. And it’s especially more tempting following Medellín’s remarkable transformation, shedding its troubled past and reawakening as a city of innovation, art, cultural richness, modern infrastructure, thriving tourism and resiliency.

Daily
Nov 1, 2024

SWISS First Lounge Named World’s Best Airline Lounge for Dining

Swiss International Air Lines recently ranked No. 1 in the World’s Best Airline Lounge for Dining category for its first-class lounge in Terminal E at Zürich Airport in the 2024 World Culinary Awards.

Daily
Nov 1, 2024

Embark on Chile’s Lakes & Volcanoes Route

While Patagonia, the Atacama Desert and Torres del Paine are already well-known Chilean destinations for U.S. adventure travelers, the more recently established Lakes & Volcanoes Route is an up-and-coming circuit distinct for its breathtaking fusion of landscapes shaped by active volcanoes and glacial lakes.

Discover the Pristine Beauty of the Sporades Islands

Nestled in the northwest Aegean Sea, the Sporades Islands are a hidden gem of Greece, offering breathtaking natural beauty and unique experiences for every traveler. Comprised of four main islands — Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros — this island cluster is renowned for its lush pine forests, crystal-clear waters and idyllic beaches.

Daily
Nov 1, 2024

Peter Sommer Travels Launches New Aegean Türkiye Tour

Guests on Peter Sommer Travels’ new land-based Exploring Aegean Turkey Tour will explore the county’s winding coast south on an exploration through the ancient world. Along the way, enjoy the finest local and traditional cuisine, as well as luxury accommodations including a grand merchant’s house dating back to the 1800s, a winery and a rustic guesthouse.

Daily
Oct 30, 2024

Things to Do in Santa Barbara’s ARTS District

Formerly known as the Historic Theatre District, the recently renamed ARTS District in Santa Barbara, California, offers travelers an array of cultural attractions.

Explore Egypt on the Most Extraordinary Tour Ever

Picture this: You’re standing in front of the Great Pyramid, the last of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, in complete silence, with no crowds in sight. As you step inside, your guide leads you to hidden chambers inaccessible to other tourists. Here, you’re granted a rare chance to delve into the deepest mysteries of ancient Egypt.

eFlyer Reviews
Oct 30, 2024

Art Hotel Villa Fiorella Review

Perched on the hillside town of Massa Lubrense, just beyond Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Villa Fiorella Art Hotel brings modern sensibility to an ancient town, emphasizing artistic expression throughout the property. Less than 5 miles from the more crowded town of Sorrento, Villa Fiorella is a refined escape in an idyllic region.