In between being a fearless boss launching Hommage Design Experiences, I assume another full-time role as my mother’s primary caregiver and guardian. Anyone who’s experienced Alzheimer’s Disease first hand knows what a hard road that could become in a family. So, once a month, I gift myself a self-care day—a chance to recharge before diving back into the daily care management routine.
Post-Christmas, I was generously gifted money, which I invested in a Recovery Day Pass at the Exhale Spa in Virgin Hotels’ newly opened New York location, near Herald Square. Taking advantage of their New Year’s promo, offering a 25% discount on their website, seemed like the perfect way to treat myself.
Here’s where the reality set in. The reason you see empty images of this spa isn’t just for privacy—it’s because it’s so tiny. The facilities are cramped, and the amenities, overrated. The sauna and snow room can accommodate no more than three or four people comfortably. I happened to be there when a small party was there for what looked to be a bachelorette pre-game event. Needless to say I could not relax or rejuvenate.
I know if it were myself and my group of friends partaking at a decimal of volume anywhere near as loud as those women were engaging, we would have been approached by management, or have been given dirty looks by onlookers. No staff said anything to this group and they were seated in the incredibly small Zen Lounge together behaving this way. It’s a spa – there’s an unspoken etiquette, much like a library, where everyone just knows to be quiet and considerate of the environment.
The staff service had its highs and lows. Some, like the head receptionist and restroom maintenance personnel, were pleasant. However, one attendant seemed hellbent on making sure I didn’t over utilize the salt room, despite waiting for service while the team readied the room and then receiving less than my full 25 minutes of allotted time – I was confronted. A kinder group inside defended me, but the attendant would have none of it, and I was not going to engage in an argument.
The small quarters only allowed me a mere hour and a half use of my day pass, which didn’t measure up to the beautifully written description featured online. The only saving grace of the experience was the beautifully designed hamam.
At checkout, the same nice receptionist announced my discounted payment as if she was revealing a declined credit card transaction—odd, considering checkout was completely unnecessary, as the day pass was purchased prepaid online.
Final Rating
- Overall Experience: 3/10
- Ambiance: 5/10
- Decor: 7/10 (deduction for the tight quarters)
