Banyan Tree Spa Shanghai to Open February 2003

Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts aims to bring the tropical garden spa experience and its award-winning hospitality into China in February 2003.

The new Banyan Tree Spa Shanghai, located in the Westin Hotel at Bund Center, will unveil cutting-edge spa concepts specially customised for the luxury leisure market in China. Backed by an investment plan worth US$3 million, it is set to be one of Shanghai's most opulent and spacious spas, with well-appointed spa chambers comparable to any five-star hotel room.

All aspects of Banyan Tree Spa Shanghai will be vivid reflections of the ancient Chinese five element philosophy. This breakthrough venture will merge facets of the past, present and future into one unique institution.

The Chinese Five Element Theory

After successfully creating therapies inspired by the healing Ayurvedic tradition for the Oberoi Spa by Banyan Tree in India, the group will move ahead of its peers by embracing ancient Chinese philosophy of healing.

The time-honoured Wu Sing or Five Elements symbolise the life forces present in all existence on earth and are the manifestations of Yin and Yang, the opposing states of nature. The five elemental energies, Water, Fire, Metal, Wood and Earth, coupled with the union of Yin and Yang, form the main roots in the ancient Chinese tree of well-being. This belief is the basis that guides the proper application of traditional Chinese herbal remedies.

A selected in-house team of experts at the Banyan Tree Spa Academy, is currently perfecting new beauty and wellness spa therapies, created from over 73 natural herbs and ingredients to achieve a state of harmony and balance for spa enthusiasts.

Indigenous Wisdom

Ms Jeannie Sng, Director of Spa Services for Banyan Tree Spa noted, "The Banyan Tree Spa Shanghai therapies will set forthcoming trends in the international spa industry. We will reveal details of these new treatments to spa enthusiasts all over the world in November 2002."

This new endeavour also marks the first time Banyan Tree Spa Academy employs Chinese nationals as professional spa therapists. Banyan Tree Spa will appoint Chinese therapists who will undergo spa training by the Banyan Tree Spa Academy headquarters in Phuket, Thailand.

"Our guests will be able to experience Oriental treatments performed by spa therapists who have innate knowledge on the ancient Chinese tradition of healing," Ms Sng added.

Five Element Inspires Post-Modern Interior Décor

Located on the third level of Westin Hotel Shanghai, this new spa measures 1,000 square meters, accommodating a total of 13 luxurious spa suites. This 21st century spa is specially designed by Banyan Tree's sister company, Architrave Design & Planning Pte Ltd.

The interior design of Banyan Tree Spa Shanghai displays a post-modern Chinese influence where the Five Elements are translated into a variety of refreshing ideas. There is a Fire Room created in flaming red, an Earth Room furnished in raw stones and a Water Room complete with a waterfall feature. The grand Yin & Yang Deluxe Suite sets the benchmark as the most opulent treatment room with its unique décor of contrasting shades.

Banyan Tree Spa

A pioneer of the tropical garden spa concept, Banyan Tree Spa takes a holistic approach to physical and spiritual well-being, providing a Sanctuary for the Senses. The architecture of its spa pavilions draws on local inspiration to blend seamlessly with the natural environment. Using aromatic oils, herbs and spices, its exotic treatments are based on Asian traditions that have passed through the hands of many generations.

The Banyan Tree Spa Academy was launched in May 2001 to train a dedicated team of Banyan Tree Spa therapists, monitor international spa trends, and spearhead the research and development of new treatments recipes, massage techniques and natural spa products.

A signature feature in all Banyan Tree hotel and resorts, the Banyan Tree Spa is located in Phuket, Thailand (1995); Maldives Vabbinfaru (1995); Bintan, Indonesia (1995); Bangkok, Thailand (2002); Seychelles (2002); Marrakash, Morocco (After 2004); and Dubai (After 2004).