The Spa at Mandarin Oriental

There is only one word to describe the Mandarin Oriental Spa — blissful. My girlfriend and I went here on a Thursday afternoon to celebrate our anniversary. Upon arrival we were greeted with tea, plush robes, and were shown around the facility.
I recommend arriving an hour before your treatment so you can have time to enjoy the steam room, huge hot tub, and rainfall shower! There are also plenty of snacks and water available for your enjoyment during your stay.
I received an hour and twenty minute massage and it was perfect. My massage therapist was very knowledgable, friendly, and professional. In fact, all of the staff was so warm and really went above and beyond to make our stay great (they even gave us an anniversary dessert plate upon our checkout!) I would 100% come back to this spa and I would recommend anyone looking to «unplug» for a day to come here as well.

Good grief this place is bliss.
I am a very discerning spa-​goer, and at this point, a spa simply does not measure up if the amenities are not great.
Spas are expensive! When you go, you expect to be pampered and relaxed and treated like royalty. This particular spa, above any other I have EVER experienced in the area, accomplishes this.
The amenities are SPECTACULAR. Seriously. I oohed and ahhed from the moment I was given my tour. Every tiny detail is considered. Even the robes are superb — huge and fluffy and soft.
I always want reasons to hang around outside of my treatment time, and this place really serves it up with a humongous, glamorous hot tub, the best steam room I have ever experienced (complete with colored LEDs in the ceiling and eucalyptis steam and crushed ice), as well as a fancy «experience» shower and a warming bench.
The treatment itself was absolutely suburb. My therapist was kind and well-​spoken and absolutely amazing at what she did. Usually, spa massages are not as great as massages you get at massage-​only places, but not here.
At the end of my session, I took a snooze under a fluffy blanket in their «relaxation room» (as if you’re not totally relaxed to begin with), and then reluctantly checked out.
OH! I also had a lunch while I was there and the food was superb.
I have no intention of visiting any other spa in the city except this one from this point forward.
Yes, it’s expensive, but if you’re going to spend the money, why not do it in style?

I am raving fan of this spa. I go about 3/​year and really, once you go here, you never want to go to any other spa again. I brought my co workers for a treat and they are also fans. Its hard to not be gushing with praise for this spa. First, the entire experience is centered around you being relaxed between the «relaxation room» to the showers and steam/​sauna. It spacious and inviting.
Now on to the actual therapists. As I stated, I have been here many times and each therapist is a the top of their game. In fact, I have had the same male therapist for my last two massages. They obviously are trained very well and check in with you regarding pressure but then if you don’t want to chat and zone out, go for it. I have done most of the items on the menus for treatments — either thru packages or just trying something new.
Recently, they have changed some stuff regarding the spa — you no longer get this «kit» instead they put those amenities out which is fine and they now give you a piece of paper at the end of your treatment that tells you the Products they used (not a fan of this. it is trying to up sell you).
A couple of things I have learned over the years — the only time I heard noise is when I was in the treatment room next to the nail salon and it WAS LOUD. so if you book, ask them to NOT give you that room. It really did disrupt my massage — 2 women were catching up on years and I heard it all.
Lastly, I have learned to not call for an appointment but instead email and they will get back to you faster with more specific information. When I called, more often than not, I would get voicemail and the cycle of phone calls began.
All in all, I love the spa and the «time out» it give me. It costs a fortune though but truly worth it. Treat yourself, you won’t be disappointed.

I came here for an entire day to unwind after quitting my job. From the second I walked into the reception area, I was relaxed. I had a lovely pedicure, manicure, and facial. However, after looking at the individual prices, I don’t think I would ever go back for those services separately (my services were part of an overall package). I didn’t see the value for the money.
The massage was by far the most amazing I’ve ever had. I didn’t even know it was possible to fall asleep while getting a massage, but I did. I will definitely go back for a massage when I want to treat myself.
The facilities (lounge area, steam room, whirlpool tub, showers, etc.) were wonderful and luxurious.

My boyfriend and I booked the Mandarin Couples Suite for the first time over Memorial Weekend, and it definitely ranks in my top three spa experiences. The 700 square-​foot suite was like our own slice of paradise. It included an oversized soaking tub, a private stone sauna and daybed. They even managed to block out the noise from Boylston Street.
When we arrived in the suite, it was stocked with a fresh fruit plate, orange juice, plenty of water and abundance of towels, which was great for when we switched from tub to the sauna and back again. We had an entire hour of relaxation time to enjoy the amenities before receiving our treatments.
Once our therapists arrived, they discussed the treatment options available for the next three hours of bliss or as they like to call it, a time ritual. They are very flexible to accommodate whatever it is you want to achieve while you’re there. The time ritual begins with a soothing foot ritual designed to restore a natural state of equilibrium. I love how holistic Chinese traditions are incorporated into their treatments.
I opted for the coffee body polish, an age repair facial with hydration (the esthetician customized my facial based on the needs of my skin) and finished with a therapeutic massage. All the treatments were fantastic especially the body polish. At another spa, I have previously experienced a treatment where I felt they scrubbed past the point of comfort, but this was just the right amount.
My boyfriend enjoyed his massage and facial as well. He was basically asleep for the entire time so if that doesn’t demonstrate complete relaxation I don’t know what does.
The next time we’re in the Boston area and need some R&R, we will absolutely return to the Spa at Mandarin Oriental.

Simply put, the massage I received was very disappointing and both the manager and therapist represented the brand shabbily. When traveling (as was the case) I choose high end spas because thats where the best therapists and customer service are. I need very deep work to benefit therapeutically. Most therapists don’t have the strength but in my experience I stand a better chance with male therapists. I explained all of this and more when I spoke with the spa manager before making the appointment. The manager set up the appointment for the only therapist available, who happened to be female, she assuring me she does very deep work. She did convey my info to the therapist, to whom I repeated how, for me if its not deep it’s just a exercise in frustration as I wait for the pressure that never happens. Nonetheless, the therapist never asked me about the pressure while only managing to bring about 30% of the pressure I need. That is unacceptable. Asking about pressure is fundamental. At the rates they charge I left feeling hijacked, as if the manager were more interested in filling the room than delivering the best.

Nickel and Dimed…
While the Mandarin is the best spa in Boston and the only truly luxury day spa within 300 miles, do they have to ruin the experience by nickel and diming you?
If I’m paying $ 1000 for a couples massage do they really need to charge me extra for WiFi? Anyone who knows anything about customer experience knows that you don’t want to leave a bad taste in people’s mouths over something so silly. It’s not the money (it was only $ 15) it’s the principle.
Also, why do they always ask you to fill out a paper form including your name, address and contact details EVERY TIME you come? You’d think they could pre-​fill that information for you starting with your 2^nd visit.
So, five minutes after walking in the door and I’ve been handed a form to fill out (like I’m in a doctor’s office) and had to enter my credit card details into a login screen to get WiFi.
I’ve been to other Mandarins around the world and they do it properly. Too bad Boston hasn’t learned from the mother ship how service is supposed to be done.

Pure Bliss.
The service here is top-​notch from the second you check in (they take your shoes, offer you tea and a steamed towel) to check out (they bring you your shoes and let you relax while you are presented with the bill discretely).
The amenities are amazing. Definitely plan some extra time to enjoy the serene ambiance and water/​heat features.
The hot tub is large and comfortable, the steam room is lit with tiny beautiful lights and the whole room glows a heavenly blue as it steams up, the experience shower is definitely an experience… I’ll save that for a surprise.
The whole area is supplied with fresh towels, bottled water and an ever-​full ice bowl to cool down after all the heat.
The relaxation lounge is perfectly arranged with each lounge area separated by a subtle curtain, and each chair is meticulously arranged with super soft throws, dry towels and fresh (!) orchids (an ongoing endeavor that the spa attendants make happen all day long like magic).
My massage was absolute heaven (deep tissue torture just like I like it). My therapist paid careful attention to all of my concerns and requests and also addressed issues I didn’t even know I had! Her work on my lower back was some of the best I’ve had.
I really felt like I was in capable hands with everyone — the front desk, the spa attendants, my therapist. The service was just so perfect with a friendly, careful human touch that some high end spas miss.
I’ll be back every chance I get and you can be sure that everyone I know coming through Boston will get a day at the spa here!

This is a very expensive place, but worth the cost once in a while. The place has an amazing sauna and great service. They offer a wide range of services and everything is top shape.

I have to admit, being fortunate enough to have gone to some of the worlds best spa’s, I am a little tough when it comes to rating them.
Minus one star because Boston does not allow spa’s to serve wine or champagne. What kinda BS is that?! Coming from SF, every spa serves champagne and wine. I was a little upset to find this out. They have something called a «spa cocktail» for $ 9 or $ 12, which has apple juice, orange juice, ginger ale, and something else that was fruity. Um, yeah no, I’m not paying that price for juice and it should not be called a cocktail.
Other wise, the facility was top notch! Crystal steam room, oh my, yes! Heated bench, world pool, rainfall shower’s, bottled water everywhere, snacks to nibble on, comfortable beds to lounge in and so much more. Very relaxing, extremely clean, friendly locker room staff, and of course it’s right on Newbury st.
I got a 90min signature massage ($ 200 before tip) that put me right to sleep and some goodies from their shop as a early birthday gift from a great friend of mines.
Overall, it was a near perfect spa, it’s just missing the champagne/​wine and better snacks to nibble on.

I think some people Unilocal mostly when they are disappointed but I must point out the excellent service and massage treatment I just experienced at the spa at Mandarin Oriental Boston.
Tony was the therapist and he was amazing. He did such great work on my neck I think I grew at least an inch from the service!
The main reason I am Unilocaling is that the front desk manager upon my check out overheard me ask how long my massage was suppose to be since it was probably 5 – 10 minutes shy of actual «hands on me» and she insisted to adjust my bill (I was not asking or even suggesting a reduction). I gave Tony a tip based upon the time it was suppose to be and had no complaints. It was not necessary since I was so happy upon leaving but I did accept the spa manager’s offer and my treatment cost was reduced to what was closer to the time of «hands on me» they sure know it’s all about «Me»…the customer. I would go back regardless if they had stepped in or not but I may not have taken the time to write a review.

What a wonderful few hours I just had there. Thanks to spa week offer, I had a facial and head massage and full use of the suites. Highly recommend.

I had 80 mins massage with Pam, she was great and made me so relax! At some point I was snoring !
The whole experience was great. If you come for massage here make sure you are not in a rush so you have time to enjoy the heat and water facilities, they got the coolest shower room!
I love love it and would come again (it’s kinda $$$$$$ but it good to reward yourself sometime).

Spent a day here with my sister friend we each chose a package I got New Mothers treatment she had Purify. I felt extremely relaxed and buttery smooth throughout my time at the spa and the rest of my evening at home. Wish I came even earlier to enjoy the steak room, we sat in the jacuzzi (clothing optional) for a bit, great start to the perfect spa day.
Heated floors and heated towel racks quite impressive. The atmosphere is definitely Zen. Water, hot tea, fresh and dry fruit provided while you wait for your services.
Checking out was a bit complicated. The woman who brought our bill charged us for the weekend price at first and also forgot to bring our coats.
The validation they give you for valet only helps if you spend less than 3 hours at the spa. Since they have packages for 4.5 hours they should change that rule. We ended up paying $ 48 to park very unexpected.

Nice environment, wonderful bathrooms, decent massage.
I have had better $ 60 massages. That said the oils/​cream etc they use are wonderful and staff is very friendly!

I had the Boston Breather, which included a massage, a body scrub, a facial, mani & pedi, and lunch. The entire experience was phenomenal. The prices are steep but they go towards the amenities and the quality of products and services that you receive. The amenities are hands down, the BEST, in Boston. I probably took 4 separate naps during my full-​day excursion. They have a relaxation lounge that encourages customers to nap or read. The steam room is beautiful. The «vitality pool» is an enormous hot tub. There is a heated bench for you to sit if there is a wait for the showers. The showers are also the prettiest spa showers I’ve seen.
I enjoyed all of my services. I do wish I had gotten a deep tissue massage instead of the aroma stone massage that came with the Boston Breather. The stones did not penetrate my muscles as deeply as I would have liked, but the parts where the therapist used her hands were great because she could tell I needed the pressure. The Frankencense scrub was just wonderful– my skin has never been so supple! There was a separate therapist who did my nails who could have been a little gentler on my cuticles. The facial she gave me was so tranquil, though, that I completely forgot about my fingernails. It was my first facial and I was definitely nervous. She listened to my concerns, chose a very gentle facial that complemented my skin, and it still feels soft weeks after the treatment! Last, but not least, I had the tofu bowl for lunch and it was delicious… I definitely recommend! I came out of the spa with a glow that my friends all noticed. It is definitely worth a yearly splurge!

I had an 80-​minute aroma clear facial with Tegan last week, which was absolutely lovely. My skin feels smoother and calmer following the treatment, and I feel like it’s actually balanced. (Those galvanic currents used in the facial must really work!) I would absolutely recommend Tegan to any friends or acquaintances looking for a little love for New England winter-​ravaged skin.
The spa facilities are what you expect from the only five-​star spa in Boston — crystal steam room, hydrotherapy pool, relaxation lounge, two showers. The only negative aspect of my time at the Mandarin Spa was that the locker room and lounge areas were completely empty — and serene — when I arrived, but by the time my treatment was over around 1pm, the area was packed and quite noisy. It’s to be expected, but what I didn’t expect was to have to wait — on their heated bench outside the shower rooms — for ten minutes for one of the two showers to become available. The space can be a bit crowded in the earlier afternoon. Overall, a small bump in the entire experience, but in the future, I might schedule my treatments even earlier in the day (than my 11am start time) to make sure the locker room and lounge areas are quieter and have facilities more readily available.

WOW!
I just returned from one of the most incredible facials/​spa experiences of my life! The Spa at the Mandarin Oriental is unbelievable. The employees were extremely sweet and accommodating. The Spa itself is beautiful, and well appointed– big steam room, jacuzzi, relaxation room. Every towel is neatly folded with a fresh orchid resting on top — - it’s heaven!
Yes, it’s expensive, but in this case you pay for what you get!
I also really liked the fact that they didn’t try to hard sell me on their products. There is nothing more tacky or obnoxious than when you go for relaxation and instead receive a sales pitch.
However, I liked the products and may even think about buying them the next time! I will definitely be back! :)

Relaxation, this spa gives it a new definition… The service is impeccable! I don’t remember the name of the treatment I had however it was a body wrap and a deep tissue massage. The rainforest shower was unforgettable and the spa to wait was nice a quiet. Perfect layout for the waiting area, I believe I almost fell asleep! The selection of fresh snacks was good for I stayed through lunch after my treatment. I didn’t want to leave. My girlfriend happened to be allergic to some of the products after specifically telling them upon check in that she had very sensitive skin. She was given a credit afterwards however unfortunately she did have a bad reaction. If your skin is sensitive, I would not recommend. If you’re not too sensitive and can try any products, the this is amazingly relaxing.
Rubyritalikes the Mandarin Spa.

This spa is truly a wonderful and indulgent experience. Yes, it’s pricey but it is totally worth it (though if you get massages or treatments done every few weeks, the amenities might prove to be unnecessary) For the occasions where you really need to take a load off and relax completely, this is the place to do it.
Plan to arrive a full hour ahead of your appointment time. When you reach the spa level, you are greeted by a friendly staff member who replaces your shoes with slippers, gives you an aromatic tea and asks you to fill out a one-​sided sheet of questions about your needs. You are then whisked away to a locker room where you are given a locker, robe and a kit with toothbrush/​toothpaste, comb, razor and the like. You are then free to sweat in the sauna, soak in the vitality pool (hot tub), socialize on the heated benches or enjoy the cold/​hot shower experiences. There are also regular showers and restrooms to use at any time — and of course plenty of large, white, fluffy towels all over the place. When I went, I hardly saw another soul in the amenities room, so it felt like a completely private experience.
Once you are finished languishing, you can relax in the lounge while you wait for your therapist. Water, fruits and nuts are provided as well as magazines. When it’s time for your appointment, you are lead into a relatively spacious room where your therapist will confirm your treatment (and you can have more tea). I had the therapeutic massage and it was absolute heaven. The therapist worked out all of my knots (and I have some stubborn ones) and I felt completely relaxed by the end of the treatment.
Once your treatment is completed you can go back into the spa amenities and showers. When you are ready to leave, hair dryers, Gucci’s Flora perfume, spray deodorant, b&b hairspray, cue tips and more are all provided to you.
At the end of my visit, I was waiting for my boyfriend to leave, not knowing exactly what was keeping him. The staff was very attentive towards me — bring me tea, letting me know when his treatment had finished and then eventually checking on him for me (turns out his shave and shower were taking a while). Next time, I would definitely want to check out the private suite so the two of us can enjoy the amenities together.