The pictures, the reviews... none of them do The Spa at Mandarin Oriental justice. This is one of those "you have to experience it for yourself" type of places. Five stars doesn't even scratch the surface of what type of service and accommodations you will receive when you spend your day here. My mom and I decided to spend a full day and sample as much as we could possibly fit in... with some downtime in between services. Booking appointments with the concierge - wonderful, informative, and top notch. Arrive and check-in - fabulous. This is the only spa I have been to where they have you complete a full health intake form - VERY MUCH appreciated. All while you enjoy delicious hot tea, a cool cloth, and the removal of your shoes to be replaced with spa sandals. The spa attendants were WONDERFUL and incredibly attentive. Fresh tea, cold water, explanations of the facility... very thorough.
Mom and I started with the day with a Hammam treatment. What a delight for the senses. Firm, soft, hot, cold, warm... One of the most incredible treatments I have ever experienced. I couldn't stop touching my legs for two days after - I was so silky, it was insane. If you do ONE thing at The Spa - try the Hammam. A total delight for the senses.
The Jade Enzyme facial was incredible and relaxing. The Detox Foot Treatment was also incredible. All of it. Amazing. I didn't even get to excessively use the facilities as I had originally intended... next time. I spent most of my time relaxing on the warmed tiled loungers overlooking LV Boulevard or nestled up in the cozy beds in the relaxation room with a cup of hot tea and a bottle of ice water.
Next time I go back, I will be booking the Time Ritual... two hours and fifty minutes of treatments customized specifically for my body's needs that day? Oh heck yes! Scrub me, rub me, make me melt! I cannot wait to return!
As for the prices and the three lines of tips... get over it and show the people that make this place so wonderful a little respect... or don't come here for service. These folks are working at one of the, if not THE best spa in Vegas and certainly command the prices that you will pay. They are working very hard to make sure that you get your money's worth and I am a firm believer in gratuity that is commensurate with that effort. So if you get a little sticker shock... head up strip to a different spa. Tip rant off.
All in all and magical experience. Worth every dollar and then some. Looking forward to going back in a few months and trying a few different services.
If you don't want to valet, park in the Aria self-park and walk over to the Mandarin. It is a surprisingly short and easy walk... when you arrive at the hotel, you take the elevator to the 23rd floor and then take the guest elevators down to the 8th floor. It is a bit of an adventure, but plan for a little extra time just in case. The hotel itself is also gorgeous and I hear that their high tea in their tea lounge is not to be missed. Adding that to my 'next time' list!