Sampling a New Signature Facial at the Recently Renovated Guerlain Spa, Waldorf-Astoria New York

Last week, I visited the Guerlain Spa at the Waldorf-Astoria New York to check out the recent renovations and sample the new signature Abeille Royale Expert Treatment. This is the queen of all facials – the Abeille Royale line of creams and serums, featured prominently in the treatment, makes use of a honey manufactured only by queen bees, among other bee products. The multi-step anti-aging process also involves a rice powder exfoliating scrub, thyme and tiger flower massage “stamps,” and a purifying peel.

Pampering isn’t confined to the face, however. The treatment begins with a foot cleansing with a warm, damp towel, and the exfoliating and massaging extends down to the neck and shoulders. One of my favorite parts of the treatment was something incredibly simple: a heated massage bed. The 1 hour 20 minute facial retails for $270 on Monday-Wednesday ($280 on Thursday-Sunday), but could well be worth the splurge.

Renovations to the spa, which reopened in August, centered on a new Wellness Lounge, where guests can relax with a cocktail and a snack before or after a treatment. A new spa cuisine menu features locally-sourced dishes like Asian vegetable spring rolls and heirloom tomato soup, while a signature cocktail will rotate seasonally. www.waldorfnewyork.com/guerlain-spa

For general trip-planning information, see our New York City Travel Guide.