Jun 13th, 2007

San Diego, CA
The results are in for the annual Best of Citysearch San Diego Awards (2007), and Spa Velia, an old world, luxury day spa located directly across from the Hotel W, is a two-time winner. Chosen by voters as San Diego's Best Day Spa 2007, Spa Velia also was named as the Editorial Winner for San Diego's Best Massage 2007. The relatively young Spa opened in October of 2005, and features several one-of-a-kind amenities, including the contemplative relaxation lounge, Swiss seven-head showers and the immensely popular Couples Suite. Spa Velia's loyal following of devotees continues to grow, as city dwellers, business types and downtown hotel guests alike discover this unique, old world escape from the stress of daily life. Spa Velia is located at 401 West A Street, Suite 180 in San Diego (619.235.0000) www.spavelia.com.

Nestled between the Columbia/Little Italy Districts of downtown San Diego, Spa Velia is owned by a team of three entrepreneurs -- two women and one man -- with over twenty years of combined experience in spa management from some of the area's top spas. The trio of owners has created a spa experience that indeed embodies its motto: "sensory perfection." Every unique detail has been designed from the ground up with the spa guest's sensory experience in mind. Gently curving architecture, earthy colors, low lighting and carefully selected furnishings all give the space a feeling reminiscent of ancient Italy -- one part comforting sanctuary, one part Tuscan villa. "I felt as though I'd entered a secret medieval lair. Perfectly-suited music, tunnel-like hallways, sounds from a waterfall... all combined to further lull me (almost immediately) into a long-forgotten state of relaxation," (Concierge Connection Magazine). Guests at Spa Velia are encouraged spend as much time as they wish in the Spa's steam room or in the relaxation lounge, sipping on a complimentary glass of wine, frosty mug of beer or fruit infused water.

"We are thrilled to have Spa Velia recognized in this way," says Dana Stallings, one of the Spa's founders and principals. "I think what makes us stand out from other Day Spas is the unique atmosphere we have created here, and even more importantly, the exceptional quality of our staff and therapists. They are the best in the industry and they truly care about each and every person that they have the opportunity to touch and help, everyday. That makes all the difference in the quality of treatments our guests receive." All of the Spa's massage therapists are nationally certified, and most also are Holistic Health Practitioners, a credential that requires 1000 hours of training. New staff members receive intensive training with Spa Velia directors and all staff must meet on-going off-site educational requirements annually.

The balance of male and female energy in the owners' partnership has helped them to create a spa experience that is equally attractive to both men and women, says Christopher Guimond, one of the Spa's other owners. "Spa Velia's clients are about 40% men and 60% women and almost 90% of our male clientele become regular customers, which is really unique," he says. "I think the way the Spa is designed for privacy with low lighting is appealing to men. They don't feel like they are in the spotlight because we've tried to create serene spaces for people to relax with their own thoughts. We've also tried to keep the décor very balanced," he adds. All treatments offered for women at Spa Velia are also offered for men - many other area spas only offer men facials and massage. The steam room and relaxation lounge are both co-ed. Also, the Spa's Couples Suite offers side-by-side treatments for a shared spa experience.

"A lot of thought and planning went into creating this world of perfect relaxation," says Stallings. The difference is in the details -- People say they resonate with it immediately when they step through the door between the lobby and the spa. Customers tell us that it feels like a nurturing home away from home, and that is very satisfying to hear!"