Health Spa Reviews - Shambala Wellness Spa in Port Elizabeth

  

Review by Lauren Cohen

If you're on holiday, you should treat yourself. Interest rate, petrol price and electricity increases be gone! So on a recent trip to my old hometown of Port Elizabeth, I booked into Shambala Wellness Centre with much glee. Especially because it was a Monday and I knew everyone else would be at work while I indulged, and also because I had popped in when it first opened to buy a gift voucher and knew how fabulous it was.

Before my first treatment, I sipped a ginger herbal tea while waiting in the relaxation area. I started off with a Vichy shower and full body exfoliation with a vanilla salt scrub. I couldn't believe that this treatment is only R90. It was truly an amazing experience and my skin felt so soft and energised afterwards. I loved the way the hot water played over my body, and I could feel my skin tingling which is a sign that your circulation is alive and well! This is one treatment I will definitely be asking for again. The Sea of Life body scrub contains 26 trace elements, as well as magnesium which puts the moisture back into the skin, according to my lovely therapist Carla Truter.

After my muscles had been nicely warmed up, I put on my robe and padded down the corridor for my 45-minute back and scalp massage (R210). Here I chose to use an essential oil with reviving properties. I definitely felt revived afterwards, but during the treatment I dozed off for a few minutes towards the end - the perfect state of mind to be in while indulging in a pamper session. I had to wake up for my 30-minute Express Dermalogica facial (R290), which is designed for clients with limited time. The long steaming session was great for my blocked pores and my skin's texture has improved. Almost a week later, my skin looks smoother and feels softer, which is the result we all want from a facial.

Two of the therapists have been with the spa since it opened in March 2006. Manager Janine Oosthuizen told me they were the best team she could ever ask for, and treat their clients with the greatest care. I must say that I agree. Although Carla had only been with Shambala for six months, she had a confidence and purpose of a therapist who has been working for years. During my facial she had noticed that I had puffy eyes and cracked lips, and applied a special soothing balm to them while I lay and relaxed for 10 minutes. A small gesture, but something that struck me that Carla was a therapist who really cares and notices her clients, not just someone who is doing their job by the book.

Before I left, I bought a gift voucher for a friend's birthday, proving that Shambala is definitely a chic city spa that I would recommend. It is affordable, friendly and does not have an intimidating air about it which some spas do. Next time I go, I will make sure to clear at least half a day so that I can chill out in the steam room or in the sunshine next to the swimming pool after my treatments.

Though they are a day spa, Shambala are affiliated with guesthouses in the surrounding area of Walmer and can organise accommodation.

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