Business reviews by user

I went to try out a UV gel manicure and it was $50 for a French Manicure UV gel. The UV gel is great since the color and shine does last. My disappointment was that the nail technician didn't color up to the cuticle and if I didn't have a French manicure, it would be very obvious. For $50 I would expect a higher quality of service.

I tried the spa since it was voted #1 in Central Jersey and close to where I live. I had a body treatment (mud wrap) and deep cleansing facial with extraction. The prices are reasonable but the service was so so. The front staff is not very welcoming or friendly. The staff was ok, nothing special. Everything seemed rushed and they were going through the motions. What astounded me the most if the lack of customer service. The spa is more in the quality of a "fast food" chain.

I enjoy going to Avanti and have gone numerous times for various services. This one was a HUGE disappointment!

I booked a European Body Facial for $150 for 75 minutes. According to the website, the treatment is described as-

" These luxurious treatments include a full body exfoliation, toner, steam, massage, mask, & moisturizer. Recommended once a month with your regular facial"

What I got instead was a 50 minute treatment that consisted of exfoliation, rinse off in the steam shower, and a leave in mask/moisturizer that I was wrapped in and I was done. The receptionist described it to be a facial but on the body, hence the name "body facial" but there were steps missing from the description- no toner, massage or moisturizer (after the mask since the mask was not be rised after the wrap and there wasn't a separate step for a moisturizer).

I think the $150 is a RIP OFF for this treatment! 20 minutes of the 50 minute treatment, I was wrapped in plastic with towels on top and left in the room while the therapist left. I've had numerous body treatments before and usually they give you a head/scalp massage during the wrap. For $150, this was a waste of money.

Avanti needs to (1) edit the description on this treatment an

I visited Avanti with a friend for massages. I had a deep tissue while she had a prenatal massage.

Ambiance and facilities were perfect! Clean, luxurious, floating beds for the massages were to die for! Sauna was great and shower facilities after massage were exceptional. The massages were average, I have a regular CMT I go to but I just had to try Avanti because of the beds. The floating beds were unique, the actual massage was ok. I asked the CMT for firmer pressure and it still was too light for me since I booked and paid for a deep tissue. While the pressure was not right for me the massage was relaxing.

Only issue if is the reservations desk- I specifically booked for a prenatal massage. Somehow they booked my friend for a belly cast (even when I mentioned she was 4 months on the call). They did rectify this mixup.

Also- they now accept Spafinder certificates all week!

My girlfriend and I tried Boca via a Living Socialk promotion and had a ton of services- massage, facial, basic mani + pedi , and blowout. The massage by Ely was awesome. He focused on my problems areas and left out of there with my back free of knots. Will defintely go back for the massage. The facial and mani/pedi was good. Didn't have time for the blowout but they are allowing me to use it next time I come back for services. The outside is deceiving. This place is pretty big and loved the layout of the place. It is a nice spa with very reasonable prices!

My friend purchased a groupon for both of us to try the salt room therapy room. We also had a reflexology with foot bath. Since I did not book the reflexology in advance but my friend did, Cynthia (the owner) offered for both of us to have it done side by side as lon as we were ok with her alternating between the two of us. We were ok with this since we were friends and we were chatting. Cynthia was very welcoming and the salt room relaxing. I feel asleep for half of the time. I would go back for a massage followed by salt room. It's a small spa so don't expect bells and whistles such as a robe, slippers, etc but the service is very personalized.

The spa is small but cozy. There were 4 of us, 2 had massages the other two had manicures- one Shellac, the other a regular manicure. The massages were great. The nail servies on the other hand were subpar. The Shellac french maicure was ok and not worth what they charged- $45. The white lining on the French was not as clean as it should be. The polish on the regular manicure was sloppy and while they charged $15 for a manicure, it was more like a polish change.

I would go back again but only for massages.

Very nice and knowledgeable massage therapist. Booked a 90 minute deep tissue. Tara was able to pinpoint my knots and work on them effectively. My back felt wonderful afterwards. She offers a monthly massage program that is in line with massage franchise offerings without the required contract. Will definitely be back.

My daughter and I went for a spa day at Gem Spa Cancun. We started the hydrotherapy circuit at 7:30 am in time for our 9:30 am massages. We had the whole spa to ourselves so early in the morning and was so happy we booked early morning. When we were leaving around 11:30, there were 7 people just starting. The valet and massage services were excellent and the facilities were to die for. You leave feeling pampered and your skin silky soft. I had the Russian massage while my daughter had the Hindu head and foot treatment. The Russian massage was amazing (and I am a spa addict). She was able to get the knots out at the same time it wasn't painful ( i even fell asleep). She used stones to massage my back to provide added pressure. It is pricey ($218 for a 50 minute treatment) but if you consider that this includes the hydrotherapy circuit, it is a bargain! Not to mention for a luxury spa in NYC you have to pay $300 for a 50 minute treatment and not have all the facilities you get at Gem Spa. My only regret is I saved this for my last day and thus couldn't go again before we left and I didn't have time for a 80 minute treatment since we had to be back to checkout the hotel! If you're a spa lover, DO NOT MISS THIS WHILE IN THE AREA!

I've been going to Gentle Healing for almost a year religiously for their massages and baths and trying a new service here and there. I finally tried the Brazilian wax with Kim at the advice of a therapist there. She did not disappoint! It was the most thorough Brazilian and on top of it was almost pain free!! I also had a full leg and underarm wax with Kim a couple of times now and as a seasoned waxer, I can attest that she is great!

This spa is wonderful with a great staff from the front desk to the therapists! The Victorian style adds to coziness and serenity of going to this spa. I tried their pedicures. Not only do they take their time but their massage chairs are awesome!

What sets this place apart is they really make you feel pampered from the time you walk in until you leave. Check out their monthly specials online, it's a huge value!

I've been looking for a spa that offers baths that is nearby and I finally found it! I tried the rose petal bath and I was in HEAVEN. They really do take two dozen roses and place it in your bath. It smelled wonderful and was so relaxing to soak in with a pillow for your back all setup! I followed this up with a deep manipulation massage that my muscles thanked me for.

I have tried many spas around the area (Solace, Avanti, Serenity, Vitto Mazza) and Gentle Healing is my favorite for the personalization and quality of services!

I recently went to Gentle Healing for a jaccuzzi and deep manipulation massage at the suite, a stand alone building, rather than the regular spa building. It was great and worth the extra upcharge to use it since it was just me. The whirlpool jaccuzzi was nice but it didn't have strong jets. But having frozen grapes and a mimosa while I soak prior to my massage was wonderful! My massage was really good. I am a massage buff and loved the quality of the deep manipulation massage. It truly was a relaxing experience!

I tried Gentle Healing based on the reviews and had an hour and a half massage. Jared was great and paid attention to areas that needed focus. I ran late to the massage and they were able to accomodate me without cutting into my time since they did not have an appointment right after mine. This was really nice of them since most spas would have just cut yoiur time even if they didn't have another appointment after yours. Front desk was welcoming.

Third time going for services and finally took the plune and signed up for the membership! My only hesistation in previous visits was the distance from home but this place offers a great massage and facial as opposed to my current membership at a competitor chain close to home which doesn't offer good facials. The variety of services at Hand and Stone is fantastic- specially the facials. Not to mention waxing services at reduced prices as a member.

Although the introductory membership price of $49.99 is no longer available for a month to month mebership, I was able to get the $49.99 rate with the annual contract ($54.99 w/6 months, $59.99 month to month)!

My daughter and I had a massage and facial at the introductory rate. Facials by Dee were wonderful. Our skin glowed! The massage was great, wished I upgraded for an additional 30 min for an extra $20 but they were booked and couldn't add on the upgrade. They offer the membership for $49 each month which allows you facial or massage each month and additional services at member pricing. Love that it is month to month. They have waxing services also at excellent prices as a membership, standard pricing as a nonmember. I would have definitely signed up for the membership if it wasn't a 15-20 minute drive but will definitely be back! Really wished they opened one up in East Brunswick.

I've been a regular at Jaira's for almost 2 years. Having tried Brazilians at numerous spas around the area, Jaiara's is the best! Ask about the unlimited waxing packages and pre-payment deals.

I took advantgae of a groupon deal that has been in my bag since May. I have been going to Jaira's for leg waxing but couldn't get the nerve to try it. I finally got the courage was so glad I had it done at Jaira's! The technician was quick and while it hurt it wasn't as bad as I had imagined. At the end, I felt so clean and was happy I did it. Now I am adding this to my list of self maintanence regimen!

I tried Jaira's because of their known expertise for waxing and I was not disappointed. Their prices are reasonable and they did a very thorough and clean job. It is a no frills but clean place. They have a one chair salon, 2 pedicure + manicure stations, + 3 treatment rooms for waxing.

If you are looking for experts at waxing, look no more! I am hooked!

My friends and I took advantage of the Wellness Week special for an 80 minute massage ($200 with tax and tip as opposed to $400). They certainly give you an awesome welcome, with your shoes being whisked away, tea and warm towels and your own cosmetic case with toiletries prior to even going in the spa. The Vitality pool and steam room were great to do prior to your massage. The massage was phenomenal with a view of NYC. Afterwards, the relaxation room had comfy beds for relaxation. We really enjoyed ourselves and was thankful that even with the Wellness Week special, Mandarin didn't cheapen us of the full experience (as some spas do).

As a 2+ years member with additional family members, I am shocked at the lack of customer service and lack of management of this location. In the past 2 years, this location is on their 3rd manager/clinic administrator. Each one tells you they are looking into it with a promise to call back that doesn't happen. I have been requesting a statement which lists my usage and payments for YTD activity for the past 2 months for my FSA account. Requests just seem to go ignored. If you have a question regarding your membership, don't expect any answers or a call back. For a member that has spent $4k-$5k in total over the past 2+ years, you would think they care enough to call and get issues resolved. The therapist we go to is great but dealing with the front desk and management is negating what is supposed to be a stress free experience.

Pros:

-Reasonable massage rates ($59 per month which entitles you for 1 hour massage, $49 for additional massages)

-Family add on's for $49

- Hours are great- 7 days a week with hours as late as 10 pm M-Sat and 8 pm on Sundays

- If you find the right therapist for you, it is GREAT. The good ones are booked a tleast a week in advance if you want specific time slot. For reiki, ask for Frank. For deep tissue/sports massage, ask for Brian, Lindsey or Tom. I can't comment on the swedish, I don't care for that type of massage too much. You can get those anywhere and is much easier to find a CMT for that.

- Accept spafinder certificates

Facials are good- ask for Sharron

- Clean rooms, heated beds are awesome.

Cons:

Front desk staff can be horrible. I've been charged the wrong amounts on my credit card, given incorrect information re certificate acceptance, membership add ons. On the bright side, they've resolved them but at times slowly.

Getting a printout of activity is a hassle. This type of information should be easily accessible.

I have been a member of this spa for 10 months and it's wonderful. The therapists are able to customize a massage to focus on specific areas only. The hours are a plus (7 days a week and open until late). The value is great. Finally the knots in my back are gone!

I've been trying different spas and nail salons for a great pedicure. I tried Nirvana through a Living Social deal and am so happy I tried it. The place is immaculate, the technician was great and the atmosphere is more of spa rather than the typical nail salon. I've already told my girlfriend about this place and will be coming back for services!

For Father's Day, I arranged for services (therapeutic massage and facial for each) for my husband and stepson. Both said facials were good. My stepson's massage was ok but my husband's was not good at all. According to my husband, the massage was more akin to someone applying lotion rather than a massage. Very light pressure and he did not have a good experience. To top it off, his therapist forgot he had a facial right afterwards, had him change and sent him to downstairs. Needless to say, this cut into his facial services and was just not the relaxing spa experience I was looking to give them as a gift. Wished I would have picked a different spa since this was a treat for them that I hoped they would enjoy.

Love the staff in this spa. They are so friendly and welcoming. My favorite place for facials and pedicures! See Lois for the facials and Susan for the pedicures.

Three of us each had a massage and facial to try out those services since they were running $0 treatment specials. The facials were wonderful, Lois and D were phenomenal. Lois gave me one of the best facials I've had. 2 of the massage therapists were great, one was ok according to one of the girls.

Front desk is Serentiy always so helpful and patient when I was trying to sync 3 people for the same time slots. My only suggestion is (1) to have lockers rather than give bags to carry around with your stuff in it as you go in between treatments. It was still wonderful but it would be a bit more relaxing not to have to lug your things around (2) have the waiting room for inbetween treatments to be more cozy, i.e. couches rather than high chairs with a bar style seating area.

Otherwise for overall service, quality and price, you can't beat it.

My daughter had a full leg wax and was very happy with the results. The esthetician did a very thorough job. Her skin felt great after. Will come back again!

My daughter and I tried the specialty pedicures- hers was the volcanic clay, while I had the ultimate hydrating pedicure.

The front desk staff was very welcoming and helpful. The ambiance was nice. It was charming since the spa is in an old Victorian house. They had a good variety of retail products for sale.

The regimen for the pedicures itself was good. My daughter and I had our own room for the pedicures. Her technician I think was better and took pride in her work. Was very thorough with the cleaning and she just took her time which made it more relaxing. My technician on the other hand seemed to just be going through the motions (which I don't really care if they do a good job) but she spent minimal time in removing the dead skin from my feet and the polish application was horrible. I regularly receive pedicures in Top Nails Salon and Aree Nails so I have a gauge and it was just sloppy but my daughter's was fine. It was though I did it myself. I've had pedicures at Vitto Mazza and they looked great, I had to have a new pedicure in less than a week that's how unprofessional it looked! To top it off, there is no drying station for your toes. We had to sit in the waiting room with the portable dryers.

My 90 minunte treatment, Tour of Asia, was supposed to start at 5:30. I had been sitting in the waiting area since 5:30 and 20 minutes later, no one has still come. Not a great way to start what is supposed to be a relaxing event. Reception addressed my concerns promptly and there was a scheduling mixup on their part. Only issue is my treatment was 80 minutes rather than 90 because I had to leave to catch my bus.

As for the treatment itself, it was heavenly. The tour of Asia consisted of bath, scrub followed by Thai massage. Bath was awesome (volcanic ash with oils), left my skin so soft, bath and scrub smelled wonderful. Thai massage was good. My first time receiving this type of treatment. In looking at pics, I thought it would be on a mat on the floor with active stretching. Instead it was on a table and seem to be trigger point therapy. It was a nice touch that the spa provided loose fitting clothes for the Thai massage since I completely forgot to bring them!

Went to Solace for a brazilian with a Living Social deal to try it out since I do go there for other services, they're close to home and open Sundays.

Unlike the usual place I go to for regular brazilian, Solace used entirely soft wax with strips. Maybe it is what I am used to, but it is definitely less painful when they use hard wax for the extra sensitive areas. The job was so so, there were a lot of stray hairs that were missed.

Secondly, I added on an underarm wax but to my fault didn't check the price. I had assumed it would be the standard $20-$25 range. To my suprise it was $30! Way to expensive for an underarm wax and it wasn't thorough.

My husband and I had the Solace for Two treatment which consisted of exfoliation, Vichy shower rinse followed by a 50 minute signature massage (swedish massage). First off- the facilities are beautiful (their Vichy shower is awesome) and very clean. The relaxation room has very comfortable lounges but the pool is more for looks it's just 1 foot deep but heated so it's nice to soak your feet in but that's about it. I can see why they market themselves as a luxury spa in the area. The execution of services was ok. The format itself is great and the scrub is wonderful- it doesn't dry you out and smells delicious. Even though the treatment description indicated you get a tonic spray after the rinse, we didn't get this and we didn't receive our complimentary bottle of essential oils. Not a big deal but for a "luxury" market these details shouldn't be missed. The massage was ok but that could just be we're not big fans of swedish massages since it's more relation rather than therapeutic such as a deep tissue. My husband said it felt like someone was rubbing lotion rather than a massage. My CMT adjusted the pressure.

Wold I go back, yes, because the facilities were great and want to give it another try for a fav spa spot.

We were a party of 3 that booked multiple services (2 facials, 2 hand + feet paraffin/pedicure treatments, hot stone massage and threading). We paid full price for the facials and threading, rest was groupon. We arrived 15 min. early as instructed and my first service started 30 min from our scheduled time. My friend waited even longer for her fist service due to a nail technician leaving early and in the middle of my pedicure without notice so you had one person left to handle 2 mani/pedi + 2 facials! I ended up passing on the manicure that was part of the groupon. My friend did get the manicure and the technician insisted that the parrafin dip come AFTER the polish was applied. Made NO SENSE and of course polish got smudged! The paraffin treatment on the feet was just a slither of paraffin on the heal. Then came my hot stone massage by Ali. Worst massage I ever had. The hot stone was a joke, there was no technique to it and the stones were at times dug into my skin rather than a rythimic massage. It was supposed to be 70 minutes and it was no longer than 40 minutes (frankly this was a relief). To top it off, they charged us $15 extra for the smudged polish that they caused! First and last time they're getting our money.

I went with a friend for a full leg wax since it is close to my job and they accept certificates. The wax was good. The lady took her time. The front desk was helpful and they have an array of services. I heard from one of the clients the massages were very good. They have great deals on the web and would go back to try them. Go to check out the quality and the reasonable pricing but don't go with expectations of a "spa" like experience.

I love the Korean body scrubs here and this time tried the massage as well. This time I had the scrub by Tina and she incorporates massage techniques with the scrub. All the ladies that do the scrub are all great but this one has been my best so far.

The massage was great. It's called their signature massage but it was not the typical swedish or deep tissue massage. The massage was a combination of thai massage which includes stretching and trigger point therapy to relieve knots and tightness. This works well for me since I have chronic tightness from commuting and long hours in the office. Just to keep in mind if you're expecting a traditional swedish/deep tissue.

This place has become a work get together. A group of 5-6 of us go as a Friday after work outing every few months for the Korean body scrub and a facial or massage after. Your skin feels wonderful. If you're looking for a thorough dry skin cleansing, ask for Grace!

A group of four friends went to Tribeca Spa for a Korean body scrub and mani/pedi with reflexology.

The body scrub is not for the shy as other than a disposable underwear, you're naked getting scrubbed every inch of your body. But the results you get are amazing! I just came back from vacation and was peeling so this was perfect timing for me. The women were very friendly. No a lux spa but clean, comfortable and friendly. But most importantly, the best scrubs. Mani/padi was ok. Am going back for the scrub again and to try the massages!

I went to Vitto Mazza because of their reputation and had previously tried their spa services and was happy with the services. This time, I tried their salon for a spiral perm. I asked for a senior designer with experience in perms and they gave me Cathy. Cathy was meticulous and the spiral perm came out fantastic (after a few days when it had a chance to relax). The first 2 days after washing, I thought I had made a mistake since my hair was too poofed out with the curls but after a couple of washes the perm relaxed and looked beautiful! It was natural looking with well defined curls. Every hair (and I have a lot!) took the curl beautifully. My first perm at another salon didn't take the curl well on the bottom of my head. I would definitely go back when it's time for a redo!

My daughter and I went to Vito Mazza- she had a land and sea body wrap and milk and honey pedicure while I had the winter hydrating facial and milk honey pedicure.

The facial was great. Renee was very informative and adjusted the facial to meet my sensitive combination skin. My face felt so smooth and refreshed. The pedicure with the leg massage put me to sleep. My daughter loved her first body treatment. We both enjoyed ourselves since the spa staff was so friendly and accommodating.

Now I see what all the hype is about. They charge reasonable prices with good service.

I only wish they had a vichy shower.