Joya Spa - Scottsdale, USA

Hello from the hottest place under the Arizona sun...literally!

My record-day-temperature-arrival in Phoenix put me in an immediate need for a cocktail with an umbrella and a dip in a cold pool. So, happy was I to be heading straight to the Montelucia! This four year old resort, tucked away at the base of Camelback Mountain is home to the Joya Spa, a Moroccan and Andalusian inspired retreat elegantly designed in what could be described as a sultan‘s harem meets luxurious Spanish casita. Joya has expertly found a way to pair boutique and spa product shopping with the calm feeling that comes when entering a spa. It is made even more elegant by the beautiful round staircase you must ascend in order to start your spa experience. All the while, you are accompanied for a tour to the locker area, another experience that makes Joya beyond unique and also appealing to the mystical spa seeker with its simulated starry sky, fifty-pound quartz Zen stone, and blessing pebbles. Once I had entered the locker room for my treatments I took a look around the locker room and was impressed by the quiet feel and impeccable details.

From shower amenities to the iron work of the whirlpool area, the ambiance of Joya is hard to beat. Special to the spa is their ice cold deluge; a five gallon rush of water perfect to stand under before hopping in the clothing optional whirlpool. Shhh...Joya also added a Whisper Room to cap off your water relaxation! This unique room is whispers only upon entering. Enjoy the dim light and pick a daybed to relax on with tea and your robe. A door away in the relaxation lounge, I was then punctually met for my Joya signature orange cranberry body polish. A rigorous scrub of salts and alluring scents, it left my skin very smooth. However, the back and scalp massage that followed did not leave me with relaxed muscles, but wanting more time and more pressure. My next treatment was the oxygen facial. I was taken to a small, but cozy room. Although my bed was too warm, I was impressed by the knowledge and comfort of my facialist. The highlight was a glycolic mask that felt like a million tiny sparks and left my skin very refreshed.

Ready for some sunshine, I grabbed my swimsuit and a magazine from their extensive collection and headed through the Moroccan-inspired archways to the spa‘s very own private patio and pool for apris treatment lunch and drinks. Although hotter than hot, I got my tan on with some fabulous champagne and then finished off my stay at the spa with a leisurely use of the shower and facilities. With not a single amenity overlooked. Joya knows how to let a woman take her time in the mirror! Leaving Joya was bittersweet, but they make the process relaxing and easy as you transition from bliss to reality. Overall, the atmosphere and interior of Joya Spa is certainly five star quality, but my treatments left me feeling a contrast, therefore I rate Joya at 3.5 stars.