La Prairie Spa At the Ritz Carlton

Had an amazing facial during the holiday rush! What a great escape from the hustle and bustle on the crowded streets below. The receptionists were friendly and took our winter coats and scarves upon check in. The locker room was immaculate. Arrived early to relax in the waiting room — it was small and provided little privacy for the attached treatment rooms, but given that the spa is in a hotel in a high-​traffic area of a major city, I suppose most people don’t stay long. The facial was one of the best I’ve ever had and I enjoyed the option to choose from a large selection of music. Followed by a lovely walk in the Park, this experience made for a great addition to my holiday getaway.

Good, but far short of great.
They may offer the best mani/​pedi in NYC. The pedi chairs are insane!
I had a great massage & a wonderful facial.
That said, the high price isn’t justified by the surroundings.
Luxurious & cramped don’t belong in the same sentence, but that was the way I felt, even when I was the only person there.
Yes, you get bubbles (plus 1 star), but the lounge room is very small with only a few places to sit that are close together.
What was more bothersome to me was there are treatment rooms off of it, none of them are soundproofed.
I know that when I’m done with a facial I need a few minutes without people or communication, and that isn’t possible here, as you exit right from your facial room into the lounge.
The changing are is very small. Well lit, but if there are more than 3 people in the changing room or in the lounge, it is cramped.

What an amazing experience! As you probably know, I am a spa aficionado and this was terrific, even by my standards. The hubby and I went for massages. Lets start off by saying, this is not a bargain/​budget establishment. Be prepared to shell out some serious coin for this, but it is so worth it.
I had the swedish and the hubby had a hot stone/​swedish. We did not have a couples massage as that is not my thing. We were both very happy with our services. The therapists listened to what the hubby and I wanted. They focused where we wanted them to focus.
The locker room was lovely and clean. The showers were immaculate. It’s worth saving your pennies and come for a truly decadent experience.

I’ve been to many spas around NYC & I have to say, La Prairie is on the top of my list. Everything is top quality! The locker rooms supply you with hair dryers, lotions, facial cleaners, qtips, mouth wash, towels, brushes, razors, etc. They give you personal lockers to store your belongings & a robe & slippers to wear during your treatments. The locker rooms are very clean, have a sauna, steam room & bathrooms. In the unisex lounge area, they offer you complimentary snacks & fruits, champagne, warm towels, neck warmers, music options & fun coffee table books. The massages are out of this world. The woman that did my massage was very good at working out the knots in my lower back by offering to use two different massage techniques & the pressure was more perfect than I could have ever imagined. The facials are terrific too. The estheticians take their time to examine your skin, tell you everything that they are doing & using on you & always deliver Excellent results. The pricing is very fair for what it is & the location is in the Ritz Carlton hotel which is right by Central Park. It’s all-​around an amazing day spa. I recommend this place 100% to anyone whose looking for a special & luxurious spa experience.

Ritz Carlton is a landmark hotel on the south bank of Central Park. As soon as I walk in, I know I best stand up straighter and slow my roll.
This place is fanceyy. You want to put caviar on my face? Well, yes please. You get what you expect from a 5 star facial at a 5 star hotel. I came in with the wind-​blown face of a fisherman and left with the glow of a pregnant lady.

This is the best SPA experience I have ever had. I have been to several spas in Manhattan and the five boroughs for facials, from very expensive to moderate. This spa is above par. The esthetician, Mary, was amazing! I couldnt keep from sleeping during the procedure. The entire experience was so relaxing, I was in heaven. If you want a proper facial do not hesitate, this is the place to go!

The way I spent Saturday, January 4, 2014 was the best way to kick off the New Year. For our 1 year anniversary in December and my Christmas present, my boyfriend surprised me with a day at La Prairie for the Total Escape spa package. The package includes a mani/​pedi, a facial, followed by a massage. Best boyfriend ever!
We arrived early for my 11:15 AM appointment. The receptionists at the front desk were so welcoming. They took my coat and scarf while Matt checked me in. He took care of the payment and even the gratuity. I hugged and kissed him and the ladies told him to pick me up at 3:30 PM. Wow! Over 4 hours later! It was then that I realized I was in a for a long day of decadent relaxation!
I was taken to the locker room and given a brief tour of the showers and steam room. I undressed, changed into a robe and slippers and went to sit in the lounge, where I enjoyed a delicious glass of crisp champagne. I was given a list of their music selection and was told to pick my favorites so I can tell them what to play during my treatments.
Fifteen minutes later, Raynell came to pick me up and told me that she would be my manicurist. She took me to a room with the most amazing mani/​pedi chair that I’ve ever seen. It looked like a regular chair until she removed a cover and there was a nice little bubbling steam bath for me to dip my feet into. I chose a nail color from their Deborah Lippman collection. After, I loved learning that the name of it was «Since I Fell For You.» How fitting since this was a gift from the BF. The mani/​pedi session lasted nearly 1.5 hours. I was so relaxed and Raynell was so nice. My fingers and toes had never looked better! Raynell took me back to the waiting room and gave me a glass of champagne. This time, I helped myself to some strawberries.
Carolina picked me up for my facial. I’ve never actually had a facial before so I didn’t know what to expect. The champagne had really helped me to relax. The idea of having someone examine your skin under such scrutiny and bright lights definitely frightens me. But I was so relaxed that I told myself I was in good hands. Indeed, I was! I dozed off for a bit during the facial, but woke up to feel my face. It was so smooth and soft. I’ve never felt my skin like that before!
Back in the lounge, I was so relaxed and cozy that I couldn’t believe that outside, NYC had just endured a major snowstorm. I sipped more champagne and ate more strawberries. This day was just too good!
Laura picked me up for my massage. I was really looking forward to this part of the spa day since I carry a lot of stress in my shoulders. The 1-​hour massage with Laura was too good. She paid extra attention to my shoulders and topped off the massage with an amazing head rub. After, she waited outside the door with a glass of water.
I enjoyed the water in the lounge. I looked at the time and it was 3:15 PM. How the day just slipped away! I went to the reception area when I couldn’t unlock my locker to find Matt waiting for me. He looked so happy to see me so relaxed and stress-​free. I told him I’d be about 20 minutes since I needed to shower and change.
Back in the locker room, I used all of the La Prairie products to get ready. The face wash is amazing! When I realized I might need a few more minutes, I texted Matt to suggest that he get some wine or bubbly. He responded that he was already sipping on champagne. Too good.
Upon leaving, the receptionists retrieved my coat and scarf. They gave me a list of recommended products, but there was no pressure to purchase anything. I loved that they even gave me a little goody bag, with a full size bottle of the nail polish that I loved. What a treat!
This spa day was too magical and I can’t wait to return on one of our future trips to New York City.

I had a fantastic facial. The esthetician was very gently but effective during extractions and answered my million questions about my skin. Afterwards, we were offered champagne and a warmed neck pack. The steam room was one of the best I’ve been in. It was extremely steamy and there were no drips from the ceiling. I liked the silver bottles of lavender and eucalyptus essential oil mist to spray for added relaxation. One thing I didn’t like was the flimsy curtain that separated the waiting area from the lockers. The locker area is quite small and theres not much separating you from exposing your bits to those waiting for their treatment. Obviously, you can change in the bathroom if that is bothersome. Other than that, I thoroughly enjoy my time at the spa. I especially love that no one hounds you to buy products. A suggestion list is provided and if you want to buy then do so, if not, no one bats an eye. I also like that a samples bag was already prepared. So many spas clutch samples as though they are full size products for sale. Overall, I had a great experience and would return.

Best spa experience of my life. Its not as big as some of the other spa’s I have been to, but you get treated like royalty! Also, they only use La Prairie products (hence the name), which is one of the top of the line cosmetics lines. Your skin will honestly never feel as good as it does after you use these products!
When I entered the spa, I was warmly greeted by the receptionists who lead me to the change rooms. Of course this spa was fully equip with all the amenities you need to freshen up post spa visit. I put on my robe and then headed into the waiting area. I was immediately approached by someone asking if I would like anything to drink. Unlike most spas I have been to, they really meant anything… champagne, wine, water, juice, etc. Naturally I opted for a little bit if bubbly to get into relaxation mode. I was also given a few hors d’oeuvres to snack on while I wait.
I highly recommend you to come early to enjoy these things and really take advantage of what the spa has to offer. Shortly I headed in for my facial. It was absolutely amazing! I’m usually so paranoid when it comes to my skin and fear vigorous hands massaging them. I had nothing to fear here! I was able to pick the tranquil music that would be playing I’m background for my hour facial and so it began. It was so relaxing that I actually fell asleep.
Post facial, my skin had never felt so good. I actually went out that night feeling completely refreshed and absolutely no need for makeup! I would honestly go back in a heartbeat.

What’s not to love about the Ritz and/​or LaPrairie? I’ve had a few services here but I am writing this review based on my latest experience last week. I went in on Sunday for a facial with Rose. I had a few questions regarding product and Rose was so knowledgable about the entire La Prairie line. She was very accomedating and my skin is still glowing!

After much research I went to this spa since I am looking into skincare brands and decided to try out the spa experience before buying La Prairie. I booked the gold facial. The spa is gorgeous and spacious. The facial started with a relaxing foot bath which relaxed me instantly, and the music and décor definitely helped. The massage was by far the best facial massage I have ever had — I found myself melting and drowsy, which never happens. Definitely the best massage…
Sometimes I have some breakouts after facial, but this time I had several breakouts on my face that went on for a few days. I don’t think the products suited my skin. Also, even though I left with a glow and my skin looked and felt clean, the extractions were few so I had blackheads.
Even though I gave this place 4 stars for the awesome massage, I will not go back because of my reaction to the products and my need for extractions, especially for the $$$ they charge.

3÷20÷11 I decided I needed to treat myself to a day of beauty. My usual spa was booked and proceded to call about 10 spas which were all booked (I know plan ahead)
I arrived and was welcomed warmly. I expected a bigger spa. It was very clean and comfortable.
Each locker had a robe and slippers. The CON was my facialist offered me a larger size robe «for my comfort». I did feel a lil insulted but I get it, I’m overweight. Btw my robe fit just fine.
I booked a 90 min facial with mani-​pedi $ 385. The whole experience was glorious. I truly felt like a queen. You can pick different music selections and I chose to listen to Sade :)
My skin was so clean afterwards and my cuticles looked flawless. Afterwards, the facialist wrote down recommendations for different products.

It was not peaceful. There was an incessant chatter that distracted from the overall experience. I was very disappointed. The space is beautiful but the service does not live up to the company reputation.

I went to the Ritz Spa for my first date with my beautiful BF.
It was New Years Day and we were ushered to the spa, i truly felt like a princess.
The hotel is amazing, looks decadent and very old NY, felt right at home (LOL)
I had pedicure done. lasted around an hour, with beautiful foot massages and lotions. it was one of a kind experience… the lounge area is magnificent too– fruit water and snacks are delish.
thanks to my bf i got to experience this, which normally is usually way out of price range.

Been here a few times, so I believe I have a good understanding of how, why and if their services work.
Lows First:
Super pricey, but you knew that.
Yep it is small, and they do lack the normal spa amenities as mentioned.
Highs:
Great customer service
You feel like a princess
Nice place to totally relax if you have an open day, although amenities arent many so make sure to have a few services
What I’ve Done:
Microderm Facial: was great, made my skin feel fresh and clean and was able to tell the difference afterwards. I was a bit sad that not all of the extracts were performed, she did go very light. For the price I expect my nose and face and neck to be completely taken care of during extractions.
Gold Facial: Skin felt revived and fresh. Glowing, yep!
Body Scrub: Yum… god my body felt GREAT after this, the exfoliation and cremes put on afterward leave you tingling with delight! I’d come here for this before a body spray tan if you get those!

I hide from the world at this small, quiet, meticulously kept jewel of a spa and while it is pricy (hello it is the Ritz what do you expect?) they are very generous with their facilities and service.
I arrived for a 6:30pm facial at 4 and proceeded to use the gym, the sauna, the shower with all complementary products. I lounged and read their NY Times while having champagne and fruit and this was all before a wonderful 60 minute facial.
The service is perfect and the place feels empty — as if you were in your own private suite getting pampered (I admit I did go on a pretty Sunday but it was worth sacrificing the outdoors for the perfect oasis in doors).
I concluded the evening with a drink downstairs at the bar and left the Ritz feeling like I had been away for days. If you want to hide in your own home town try this experience.

Another must stop when I am in Manhattan. Everyone is very professional and attentive. I am very partial to the La Prairie line. The Diamond Perfection is a must try. It contains crushed diamonds and crystals… so indulgent. Also, my masseur, Scott is excellent.

4 Stars for the Spa as it is lacking in amenities and quite small. However, 5 stars for services! I had one the of the most amazing massages with the La Prairie Caviar Cream used. It is their Caviar Skin Massage. I can’t remember my masseur’s name but he was amazing! I am definitely a fan!

Yes, I consider myself a very lucky girl to have been sent here (directly following my cocktail and snack at the Lobby Bar downstairs). I sure as shit wouldn’t have been able to to afford a massage at the Ritz on my own.
Anyway, I arrived and was greeted warmly by name (they KNEW somehow), my coat was taken, I was offered champagne, etc (I declined as I was already tipsy from my martini) and I was shown to the lounge where everything was explained to me. In the lounge, there are lockers where you can custom program your own combination for the lock, and in the lockers are robes, sandals, a towel, a hanger and a jewelry box.
I didn’t take the time to sit in the steam room, but it looked very nice. There was also every amenity imaginable provided for use: Mouthwash, toothbrushes, whatever you need/​forgot/​want to take.
While waiting for my masseuse, I sat in the lounge area, where there was «fruit water» (water with tons of fresh berries in it), a bowl of fresh fruit for eating (delicious, I had a few…), books to read, CDs to choose from (but the selection playing was fine for my taste).
After a few minutes of waiting, a soft spoken woman named Shannon came to get me. She addressed me as «Ms. Rose» which I found hilarious yet appropriate for my surroundings, and I followed her to my treatment room. She asked about any medical conditions, medications, etc and then left the room for me to get settled. When she returned, she got to work immediately. She was extremely thorough, provided perfect amounts of pressure (without any guidance), and the entire session felt seamless; I never felt or heard her getting more massage oil or lotion, moving around… nothing.
Of course, I enjoy getting massages… but this one was just different. I’ve heard stories of people falling asleep, but I never had. This time though, I totally drifted in and out of consciousness because I was so completely relaxed. I woke up and had to drag myself out of there, went home and passed out.
If I could afford this weekly, I would make a standing appointment.

I totally lucked out yesterday when my boss was unable to make it for her massage, facial appointment at La Prairie. I opted for the facial and my dh had the massage.
The entire experience was heavenly, from the moment we walked thru the doors we were completely pampered. My facial was probably the best I have ever had — I actually dozed off a few times — and I have to say I was glowing after wards. It was delicious!
My dh wasn’t in the mood for a last minute massage — but I did a little arm twisting and he came along. And, of course– he’s glad he did. It was his first massage with a male therapist and it was a really good deep tissue — which isn’t his favorite — but he really needed it and actually said he wished it wouldn’t end (isn’t that always the case!)
The place is pretty pricey — (thank goodness all we only covered tips — thanks boss!) It is well worth it. If I could bear to part with the $ — I would go once a month… ahhh if only…