Moana Lani Spa Waikiki

I was just about to start searching for some statistics to begin this blog. Something about the average Australian's work week. Something about how we are working longer hours, more days, working on the train, working from home, working 'til midnight, etc. I was then going to find some other neat stats which pull together the well documented effect all this work is having on our mental and physical health.

My point was going to be that we need to reevaluate and re-prioritise. Or at least, just stop and rest every once in a while.

But I didn't. Because I am tired. And I realised it's unlikely that you need me to convince you. Because you're tired, too. Aren't you? And it doesn't feel good. Does it?

Point made.

This is all a roundabout way of explaining and justifying my love of, and spending on, spas. Even if we are talking a half hour massage, in calming surrounds, with a soothing cup of tea. A cumulative hour's worth of escape. That's all that's needed to undo a fortnight's worth of stress and lack of sleep. Truly.

My last experience was in Hawaii, and because I so value them, I spent a full week making the treatment/venue decision and left just one day to book. A bad move since my first choice, the Conde Naste Traveller recommended Spa Halekulani, was not available. I had no treatment there, but I recommend it based on their advice when I was made an enquiries. So generous, genuine and informative - they embodied the Aloha spirit.

In any event, I ended up at the beautiful Moana Lani Spa at the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort and Spa. Friendly and welcoming staff gave me a tour of this breezy, light-filled spa and I was sold when I saw the rest area. A gorgeous room filled with lounges, cold drinks, teas, fruit, local nuts and sunlight, overlooking Waikiki beach.

I had a wonderfully relaxing massage (I opted for the Heavenly Spa Signature Massage) and made full use of the facilities (including the world's best hair spray I used post shower and I am still trying to it track down). After my treatment, as if on cue, a show of serene hula dancers and Hawaiian music began in the outdoor area of the hotel - the view of which was perfect from the jacuzzi. Bliss.

So amazing, I have forgiven them their choice of slippers (see above).

The Details

Moana Lani Spa

Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa

2365 Kalakalua Avenue

Honolulu, HI 96815

www.moanalanispa.com www.moana-surfrider.com