Wagering on Luxury: The Borgata Casino and Spa Delivers a Jackpot
W
hen the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa came to Atlantic City in July 2003, it was very big news indeed. This was the city s first hotel casino to open in 13 years. But more than that, the Borgata, which cost $1.5 billion, brought to Atlantic City a level of luxury and style that had never before been seen in this vintage American resort by the sea. Not only were the rooms furnished with taste not usually associated with casino hotels, they were also designed for comfort, from the superb mattresses to the fine Egyptian linens, to the high-end natural skincare products in the bathroom. The multi-million dollar art collection, which includes 13 hand-blown chandeliers by renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly, drew thousands of admirers on the hotel s opening day.
… for dedicated disciples of pampering, the 35,000 square-foot European-style Spa Toccare was undoubtedly the star of the property.
But for dedicated disciples of pampering, the 35,000 square-foot European-style Spa Toccare was undoubtedly the star of the property. Here, too, style and elegance prevail, and in the 22 treatment rooms, the whirlpool, steam, and sauna, it is easy to forget that this is a spa in a casino hotel. Only in the waiting area, which is thoughtfully equipped with juice, soft drinks, bottled water, and fruit, is there a difference. Here, instead of the usual hushed atmosphere, spa clients awaiting treatment watching a big plasma screen television set a signature element in the hotel s d cor. (The screens are found everywhere, including the elevators.).There is a separate spa area for men, which is equally luxurious.
Service is also thoughtful and often a step above the usual: when, for example, I arrived for one of my body treatments and found that I had been assigned a male therapist rather than a female (it s necessary to specify when booking), I expressed some disappointment. Though the spa was quite busy, after a brief conference among the desk staff and a hurried phone call, a change was made, virtually at the last minute, and a female therapist was found to give my treatment.
HIGH TECH TREATMENTS
As one might expect, there is an extensive menu of high-tech treatments and products (including Epicuren and Comfort Zone) equal to what is found a top European spa. Among the more popular treatments is the Borgata Glow Facial, which begins with a citrus cleanser that feels like orange juice, and includes a light exfoliation, steam, and extractions. It uses advanced enzyme technology to metabolically speed up the cellular activity of dermal cells so that the skin self-rejuvenates.
The Toccare Touch, the spa s signature treatment is a centering, balancing, well-choreographed full body relaxation massage.
The Grand Master B Body Wrap uses propolis, the hormone secreted by bees, blended with fine olive oil to repair and rejuvenate the skin. The treatment is sealed in with warm coconut milk, poured over the body and gently massaged, leaving the skin protected, deeply moisturized, and very, very smooth.
The Snow Angel Facial is a gentle, hand-applied micro-dermabrasion, which gives superior exfoliation without irritation. Combined with the healing power of Noni Gel, the facial leaves the skin looking youthful and fresh.ni Gel, youthful and fresh.
While the general treatment rooms are pleasant and well-equipped, the couples suites are extraordinary; they include a private bathroom with shower, a private lounge area with a large plasma television set, and a private Jacuzzi. Keep in mind that the spa gets booked up well in advance, especially on weekends and holidays, so it s a good idea to reserve treatments as soon as possible.
SHAVING GRACE AND PIERRE & CARLO
The spa complex houses Shaving Grace for men and Pierre & Carlo, a full service beauty salon. At Shaving Grace, men enjoy the kind of amenities traditionally found in private clubs. They can play billiards, sip wine, and indulge in a splendid skin-soothing close shave. As the law prohibits the use of old-fashioned straight razors, the barbers use an adaptation (a fresh one for each shave). Manicures, pedicures, facials, haircuts are among the services available here. Excellent products are also on sale, including fine shaving gear (such as a sterling silver shaving set) and exceptional natural hair care products.
For women, Pierre & Carlo provides the same level of care, as well as superior hair products from Italy, jewelry, and other necessary items. The spa pedicures here are like a facial for the feet, and include a soothing and relaxing leg massage along with careful grooming of the toes.
AND MORE
To complement the spa experience, there is an inviting indoor pool and a very well equipped fitness center (the Pump Room) available to all hotel guests. The hotel has dining options to suit any diet, whether it be low carb (the Homestead Steak House, Suilan By Susanna Foo, and The Oyster Bar) or low cost (the Borgata Buffet is the best and most varied buffet we ve seen in a casino hotel).
At Renaissance Pointe
One Borgata Way
Atlantic City, New Jersey
609-317-1000; www.theborgata.com
0 Comments