Airport Spas
To most, the idea of a long layover is almost enough to cancel your plans altogether. But say goodbye to wandering around duty-free shops or reading every available tabloid magazine: this is the era of the airport spa. Now you can kick back and take a load off with a deep-tissue massage, refreshing facial or even a workout, all without ever leaving the terminal. With the growing popularity of these airport spas, you may even find yourself looking forward to layovers.
A Massage Inc. - Denver International Airport, Colorado
If you happen to find yourself in this airport and you have time to kill, stop by this tiny azure-blue oasis located in Concourses A and B. In just 20 minutes, an expert masseuse is guaranteed to loosen you up with a neck, back and scalp massage. During a longer layover, indulge in a 90 minute full body massage. Reflexology treatments as well as manicures and pedicures are also available. (303) 342-7485
Backrub - Hub O’Hare International Airport, Chicago, Illinois
Those who travel through America’s busiest airport will no doubt be grateful for the instant peace provided by this portable massage kiosk. Located in Terminal Three, this simple alcove offers chair massages skillfully administered by licensed therapists. Available in 10 to 30 minute increments, this place is so good that loyal frequent-flyers will schedule layovers in Chicago just to stop by. (773)601-0630
The Hilton Athletic Club - O’Hare O’ Hare International Airport, Chicago, Illinois
These days, taking a trip doesn’t necessarily mean missing out on your workout routine. Indeed, the Hilton Athletic Club offers amenities that rival most ordinary gyms such as extensive cardiovascular and weight training equipment, a lap pool, a steam room, sauna, and a whirlpool. Other bonuses include tanning beds, gender specific locker rooms and showers as well as certified massage therapists who offer deep-tissue Swedish massages. With reasonable usage fees ($10 US for unlimited access), this club is the epitome of personal-care on-the-go. Located in Terminal 2, (773) 601-1723
The Hilton Health Club and Spa - Logan International Airport, Boston, Massachusetts
There is no better way to ease the frustration of a long layover than with a revitalizing workout. Thanks to the sunlit health club at Logan International, weary jetsetters can do just that. Besides the fully-endowed gym and array of massage services offered, what truly sets this spa apart are treatments such as “Happy Feet” which includes a sea-salt exfoliation, paraffin foot treatment and massages to ease tired feet and minds. Free shuttle service from the Terminal, (617) 558-6882
Massage Bar - Nashville International Airport, Tennessee
This small kiosk located in Gate C14 promises to relieve the pain of the cabin-cramped passenger by administering 15 to 30 minute “shots” of muscle and tension relief. The arm, neck and back chair-massages offered here are basic but are administered with skill and special attention paid to personal preferences and problem areas. Because the services are so efficient, most clients are seated immediately. For regulars who pass through the airport often, discount cards are offered which are good for 10 massages at a cost of $153 US. (615) 275- 0065
Ora Oxygen - Detroit Metropolitan Airport, Michigan * also in Calgary International Airport *
As the name implies, the premier specialty at this spa is oxygen therapy. Set in the midst of a minimalist white and chrome interior, the oxygen stations are reputed to boost the immune system, eliminate jet lag, calm the nervous system and improve sleep. This spa, located at the heart of the Edward McNamara Terminal, also makes every traveler’s wish come true by offering 10-minute private showers for $10. (734) 247-4770
Passport Travel Spa - Indianapolis International Airport, Indiana
Located in Terminal C, this spa aims to provide super-quick touch-ups for travelers. The “easy connection” services, such as manicures, pedicures and massages, ensure efficiency. Only have a few minutes? The “fast track” option cuts the service times in half. Other personal-improvement offerings include facials, foot massages, make up reapplication and male-targeted aesthetic options at pleasing prices. (317) 240-1050
Rooftop Health Club - Miami International Airport Hotel, Florida
With a rooftop swimming pool surrounded by tropical plants, it is well worth the short walk to this eight-story hotel. The picture-perfect pool is equipped with a snack bar which serves beverages and light lunches, making it very difficult to justify spending a layover inside the airport. If you want to sweat out those travel blahs, go downstairs to the fully-equipped gym or sauna and polish it all of with a visit to the hotel’s salon for a manicure, pedicure or facial. (305)871-4100
D-parture Spa - Newark Liberty International Airport
Aside from typical spa-fare such as European facials, full body massages and aesthetic services, this stylish oasis with two locations in Terminal C also features a treatment aptly named "The Weary Traveler" (US $85) which includes a pedicure, paraffin treatment, refreshing oral spray and precious "napping privileges". With services such as these, "d-parture spa" is an ideal retreat for any time-poor and sleep-deprived voyager. (973) 242-3444, info@departurespa.com
Massage Bar Seattle -Tacoma International Airport
Belly up to this non-traditional bar for a serving of serious relaxation! With two locations to serve patrons, located in Concourse C and the North Satellite, Massage Bar provides travelers with an efficient massage that targets individual problem areas. “Bartenders” here discount chair massages during the 9am - 10am happy hour. 206.431.4444
Destination Relaxation - Baltimore-Washington International Airport
Destination Relaxation has two airport locations with treatments ranging from the 10 minute, $15 “Plane-Change” to the “Oops, Missed the Plane” one and a half hour table massage. Travelers can stop by the kiosk in Pier B (410.691.2755), or check out the full-service store in Pier D (410.691.9744). Both are open seven days a week. http://www.destination-relax.com
Absolute Spa - Vancouver International Airport
Vancouver takes the airport spa to the next level with three Absolute Spa locations to serve weary travelers- in the International Departures terminal, beyond security at the U.S. departures gates and in the Fairmont Hotel. Locations at the gates specialize in treatments tailored to counter the negative effects of air travel, including a range of “Flight Delay Packages”. Extensive full spa services include massages, manicures, pedicures and oxygen treatments. For airport locations, dial (604) 273-4SPA (4772) or (604) 248-ASPA (2772) for the Fairmont Absolute Spa. Online, visit http://www.absolutespa.com.
OraOxygen - Calgary International Airport
Calgary boasts the original OraOxygen location which was the world’s first airport oxygen wellness spa. A 15-minute Oxygen Lounge session enhances stamina, eliminates fatigue, minimizes toxic build-up and intensifies mental alertness, all for $18.00. OraOxygen also offers a full roster of massages, wraps, facials, nail treatments and even ear candling to help ease the pain that can come with flying at high altitudes. Located on the Departures Level behind the Air Canada check-in counters. Call 403.717.3744 or email calgary@oraoxygen.net
Molton Brown Spa - London Heathrow Airport
The Molton Brown Travel Spa, located in British Airways Terminal 1 and Terminal 4 Departures Lounges at Heathrow Airport, offers complimentary spa treatments to British Airways customers traveling First Class and Club World, as well as to gold cardholders. Sounds of ocean waves and chimes lull you into relaxation, detaching you from the airport stress only steps away. The menu includes a variety of massages, circulation and reflex therapies and hydrotherapy showers. For more information, visit http://www.moltonbrown.co.uk.
Regal Airport Hotel - Hong Kong International Airport
The Regal Airport Hotel’s Health Spa and Pool boasts a full range of services dedicated to rejuvenating the jetlagged traveler. The health spa is comprised of a gymnasium, including a fitness center and aerobics room, a sauna and steam room, full massage services as well as an extensive range of spa beauty treatments. The Regal Airport Hotel is connected directly to the Passenger terminal of Hong Kong International Airport by an air-conditioned linkbridge. Tel: (852) 2286 6266 or http://www.regalairport.com