Less than a year after opening, Kahala Mandarin Oriental, Hawaii`s luxury new Spa Suites have been recognized as the “Best New Hotel Spa in America” by Departures magazine, January/February 2003 issue.  The publication caters exclusively to American Express Platinum and Centurion card members and has a circulation of more than 530,000 readers.

The Spa Suite concept focuses on the individual and offers the ultimate in privacy and rejuvenation within each of its five spacious treatment areas.  Each Spa Suite is 550 square feet and features a personal relaxation area, changing area, private shower, signature infinity-edged soaking bath and landscaped courtyard of native Hawaiian flora.

“What makes the Spa Suites unique is the respect for our guests` privacy and time,” says General Manager Jan Goessing.  “Our guests are personally escorted through a private garden to their very own residential-style suite and this personal journey helps them transcend the hectic pace of everyday life.  Seldom will they meet another spa-user during this experience.”

In keeping with a sense of place and reinforcing the exotic roots of Mandarin Oriental yet individuality of the Group`s award-winning properties worldwide, the Spa Suites capture Hawaii`s ambiance with their plantation shutter doors, warm wood flooring, and island-style ceiling fans.  Fabrics are rich in earthy shades of olive, mustard and walnut, accented by Asian artwork and Hawaiian handmade quilts. Each Spa Suite is bestowed with the name of a Hawaiian flower.

The Spa Suites offer a series of innovative and restorative treatments inspired by the elements of life, embracing Hawaiian culture and traditional therapies.  One of the signature full body treatments, Pi`ha Kino, commences with a welcoming foot ritual followed by a bath infused with aromatic oils.  The body is then prepared with skin brushing and exfoliation to enhance the effects of the full body aromatherapy massage to follow.  A gentle facial cleanse and scalp treatment add the finishing touch to this total body indulgence.  Lokahi, signifying one mind and one spirit, is another signature treatment that focuses on the traditions of Lomi-Lomi massage using Kukui and Macadamia Nut oil versus an aromatherapy application; while still following the relaxing sequences of the Pi`ha Kino.

Recognized as Oahu`s only AAA Five Diamond 2003 award winner and renowned for having the “Best Rooms in the U.S.” by Conde Nast Traveler, Kahala Mandarin Oriental evokes Hawaii`s nostalgic era of timeless elegance.  The 364-room beachfront resort features panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Diamond Head Crater, Ko`olau Mountain Range and a private lagoon with five resident Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. 

Mandarin Oriental is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world`s most prestigious hotels and resorts.  In total, the Group operates 18 luxury hotels and resorts in key business and leisure destinations, with three additional hotels under development, including New York (opening late 2003), Washington D.C. (opening 2004) and Tokyo (opening 2006).  Mandarin Oriental now operates some 7,000 rooms in eleven countries with nine hotels in Asia, six in The Americas and three in Europe.

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