Discover local cultures through unique Spa experiences in Hong Kong, Arizona and Istanbul

London, UK, October 28, 2014 - The Ritz-Carlton Hotels offer a wealth of luxury spa experiences with an authentic sense of place at hotels and resorts around the world. High above Hong Kong, healing jade rollers are used to ease and rejuvenate the eyes, while in the Arizona desert, Hohokam Native American traditions are the inspiration for the resort's basalt stone massage, and a quintessentially Turkish Hammam cleansing awaits in Istanbul.                  

Travellers can be sure of a unique experience at each of The Ritz-Carlton Spas where traditions and natural products are woven into the therapies and rituals for a truly authentic treatment. From Asia to the Americas, each Spa creates a refuge from the pace of everyday life, tailoring the experience for every guest with personalised signature treatments.

Soaring above Kowloon, The Ritz-Carlton Spa by ESPA is a relaxing haven in the heart of bustling Hong Kong. East meets West in the therapies available which include indigenous healing lava shell and Chinese massage techniques in the Spa's signature treatments. The Radiance Jade Facial revitalises and brightens tired skin and incorporates semi-precious jade stones to ease the eyes and melt away the stresses of everyday life.

In the heart of the Sonoran desert in Tucson, Arizona, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Dove Mountain uses ancient therapeutic rituals to push away the stresses of the modern world. Many of the eco-holistic therapies available at the luxury resort use locally gathered gems, plants or stones. The Hohokam Stone Massage uses mineral-rich basalt stones found in Salt River, Arizona. They are collected locally and are believed to assist with physical and mental healing as well as having the natural properties to retain heat for this therapy.

Istanbul straddles two continents and is a tantalising blend of European and Asian cultures. The traditional Turkish Hammam at The Ritz-Carlton Spa is a cleansing ritual of scrubbing, soaping and massage which refreshes and invigorates leaving a sense of renewal. The process includes a steam bath followed by an exfoliation with a "kese" glove and natural soap, then cleansing with fresh water and a body massage. Hammam therapists are local specialists either with a strong family tradition or a wealth of experience in the country's best hammams. The Hammam rooms at the hotel's spa incorporate overflowing marble basins, brass taps, bright ornate tiles and refracted light from stained glass windows reflects in the water, creating a relaxing sanctuary.

In Japan, the anti-oxidant properties of the local green tea from the Uji region of Kyoto are an essential element in the Ryokucha Serenity Ritual at The Ritz-Carlton Spa in Kyoto. Hotel Arts Barcelona's beach front setting inspired the 43 Sea Experience which includes sea shells used on pressure points to release energy, followed by relaxing in the light sea breeze on the outdoor terrace high up above the Mediterranean.  Six Senses Spa at Sharq Village & Spa incorporates traditional Qatari design features and a labyrinth of weaving pathways, cascading fountains and lush greenery, creating a sense of inner peace and wellbeing.  The treatment rooms are inspired by a traditional Qatari environment with heated stone massage beds, mud baths and private majlis meeting areas.

The Ritz-Carlton Spas reflect the rich natural and cultural heritage of their locations and bring them to life through signature treatments for guests to discover and enjoy.  Reservations may be made by calling the spas directly, or by requesting a service online from the hotel's website.

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 87 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe. For more information, or reservations visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR).

Connect with rosemary.trigg@ritzcarlton.com

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