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SpaEthosA Sanctuary Of Sophisticated EnlightenmentBy Jane CassieBack in the late sixties, when I was growing up in Vancouver, West Fourth Avenue, known simply as ‘Kits,’ was a favourite haunt for peace-loving patrons who thrived on flower power, enlightenment, and their quest to improve the world. Although the Kitsilano abbreviation and its central location haven’t changed over the years, just about everything else has. Resident hippies have been replaced by the nouveau ‘hip,’ floral bouquets now brim from hanging baskets instead of bandanas, and transcendental meditation is no longer the road to enlightenment. I discover that a taste of it can still be experienced, though, after my recent visit to the sophisticated SpaEthos.
Windowed walls embrace the spa’s contemporary boutique area, and above its glistening marble floors are shelves that host internationally acclaimed products. Darphin, Comfort Zone, and Gehwal are just a few that I look forward to putting through the test. As well as supplying information on the wide range of treatments, the knowledgeable concierge gathers data on my health and background in order to meet my specific need. SpaEthos strives to provide exceptional quality spa experiences that will result in renewal, well being and restoring the sense of self, and that’s exactly what I’m in search of to de-stress my citified soul! Beyond the foyer’s etched glass doors, the magic begins. Travertine and cobblestone passageways trail around the relaxing environs where luxurious washrooms, steam rooms, and fourteen treatment rooms straddle the sensuously curved corridors. Soft muted tones divinely unite with fabulous faux finishes and wrought iron. Pools of incandescent light dance over smooth maple. And the trickle from a reflecting pond mingles with the infusing new age strains to exude a sense of calm. As well as the marriage of earthy and contemporary elements, the spa incorporates tried and true traditional values to successfully achieve a sense of blissful harmony. Although SpaEthos is the brainchild of owner Ann Fransblow, success of its core concepts can be attributed to spa consultants, Vivienne O'Keeffe and Associates Inc., Vancouver’s J & R Kratz Design Inc, and other members of Ann’s family who continue to play prominent roles. “It truly is a family affair,” Ann reveals, during a brief tour. “My husband helps with the marketing, my sons, Michael and Andrew manage the web site, and Heather, my daughter, works in the spa as a concierge.” Based on the welcoming hospitality conveyed throughout my visit, it wouldn’t surprise me if all twenty-five of Ann’s employees were treated like family members. Along with her expectations for quality service, Ann is committed to adhering to the strict standards instituted by Spa Canada. “We offer European traditions with a high degree of excellence,” she prides, “and it’s vital that we maintain this for all of our treatments.”
SpaEthos compliments of the property |
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Although this urban sanctuary is planted
firmly amidst the bustling vortex at the corner of Fourth and Yew, once over
its threshold I feel like I’ve been transported to a virtual oasis. 
While browsing through the brochure, I
discover a cornucopia of unrivalled delights that will surely satisfy the
most discerning spa aficionado. But which one will I go for. My callused
hands could use their pebble manicure, where deep exfoliation and soothing
stone massage would leave them silky smooth. Or should I go for the over-all
oceanic salt glow or epidermal softening body treatment? The day-long
‘Revitalization Package,’ offering the ‘the works’ includes a number of the
signature treatments, topped off with exquisite spa cuisine. After that, I
might never leave. The lavender and citrus wraps sound absolutely delicious
and the therapeutic massage would surely drop my shoulders from where they
hang out around my earlobes. And SpaEthos also promotes a holistic approach
with their stress and nutrition counseling and individualized ‘Body alive’
yoga sessions. The choices are many, and although the decision seems
arduous, I’m sure that any one of them will result in a mighty blissful
outcome! 
With the effects of aging creeping in at
full tilt, I decide to pamper the area that is most visible these days and
go for a botanical facial. Prior to participating in this heightened
experience, I’m invited to relax in the fireside Intention Room, where
incandescent lighting accompanies a flickering flame and the concealed
footbaths provide a sensational soak over smooth river stones. Other spa
denizens enjoying this preliminary treatment include a soon-to-be bride and
her maid of honor, and a couple celebrating their first wedding anniversary
by having a duo massage. We’re offered cucumber spring water, a selection of
fruit, and herbal tea while being cocooned in serenity.
True revitalization, though, arrives
after my aesthetician, Farin, introduces herself and directs me to the
treatment room that appropriately goes by the name of ‘Content.’ After
thorough analysis of my skin type she points out my key problem areas and
promptly goes to work. A challenge lies ahead for her. Over the next sixty
pus minutes, Farin revives my pores like they’ve never been charged before.
She cleanses with ‘Vitalskin,’ flushes with toner, exfoliates with a facial
peel, applies serum to my puffy eyelids and antiseptic over my T-zone
blackheads. Her hands feel like satin gloves as she massages in time with
the background harp and rhythm of waves. And as my tension disintegrates and
worldly cares wash away with the surf, I find myself drifting in and out of
slumber.
By the end of the treatment, my pores are
rejoicing with rejuvenation and I feel like a million dollars. I saunter
back to the Intention Room where Farin prepares a cup of Asian Matcha tea.
“It’s an anti-oxidant that will detoxify and purify,” she shares. “And it’s
a traditional remedy that’s been around for over nine hundred years.” As I
sip the delicious brew, I reflect back on my visit to SpaEthos. It’s truly a
sanctuary in the heart of my community roots and one that offers a totally
new meaning to the term enlightenment.