SPA LIFE

Welcome to Spa Life  where we feature the best spas around the world. As we all know, wellness and self-care have become increasingly important in our daily lives. With the constant hustle and bustle of modern-day living, it's important to take time to recharge, relax and rejuvenate. And what better way to do so than by indulging in some of the world's best spas?

At GB Magazine, we understand the importance of self-care and wellness, which is why we've dedicated this issue to showcasing the best of the best when it comes to spas. Our team of experts has scoured the globe to bring you a curated selection of spas that cater to every need and desire. From luxury spas in tropical paradise to traditional spas in quaint villages, we've got it all covered.

In addition to highlighting the best spas around the world, we've also delved into the world of innovative treatments for overall well-being. Our team has explored the latest in wellness technology and unique treatments that you may not have heard of before. We believe that our readers deserve the very best when it comes to wellness and self-care, and we're proud to bring you this extensive guide.

We hope that this issue inspires you to take some time out of your busy schedule to indulge in some well-deserved five star self-care. We're confident that after reading our guide, you'll be ready to book your next spa retreat and experience the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation.

Thank you for choosing The Global Billionaire Magazine as your go-to source for all things luxury and lifestyle.

Best regards,

Marijke Vandervennet & Sir Michael Honablue 

At 12:55 PM on a beautiful, sunny, Friday afternoon, I was more than ready to be whisked away to totally secluded sanctuary and sweat out the mini hangover that was starting to creep up on me. Note-to-self: don’t answer your mobile phone or the doorbell if you’re NOT expecting out-of-town guests at 930pm. Especially if you want to be sober and alcohol-free for a month...enough said. LOL

I hopped off the M10 ‘straße bahn’ and made my way down the plush maple, oak and linden tree-lined street in a super-cute residential neighborhood in Berlin-Tiergarten. I had only previously read bits and pieces about VaBali Spa, but never had the chance to come and experience what this place had to offer, until today. Then at the end of the road, I approached a training camp-like facility built from red and brown brick and was like- is this the place? To the right was a huge field with tennis courts, soccer fields and rock-climbing walls almost like a sports arena for local athletes- obviously NOT part of this publically noted SANCTUARY. The other side: a ‘stadtbad’, which is considered an upscale public swimming pool according to USA standards- but obviously NOT part of this exclusive getaway-retreat either. Then I saw the sign and proceeded to walk down the vestibule of the building. The sliding doors opened and the smell of jasmine and mint leaves overcame my senses. The faint and soothing Balinese themed music took me to another place: a peaceful place. This-indeed, was VaBali Spa.

At check in, I was presented with my electronic bracelet, that served as my “tracking device”through out the day. It was my “tab-accumulator” and would be attached to me during my entire ‘spa adventure.’ It allowed me to lock and unlock my private locker; charge food and drinks along the way as well as charge additional services that are strategically placed all around the labyrinth-like-superstructure. Services like reflexology massages, outdoor dipping treatments, fitness center training sessions, tanning beds to purchase UV rays by the minute (perfect for rainy days) and wellness scrubs are all available at an extra cost...just use your bracelet to charge away! The 20,000 square meter resort (approx. 49 acres) boasts 2 different restaurants with a separate bar, 9 different saunas sitting at different temperatures ranging from 50 degrees Celsius/122 degrees Fahrenheit up to 80 degrees Celsius/176 degrees Fahrenheit; all with 30-minute interval infusion treatments to make the experience even more beneficial to your skin. 

The compound also contains 2 outdoor swimming pools, a freezing cold plunge pool (sitting at -25 degrees Celsius/-13 degrees Fahrenheit), an indoor saltwater pool accompanied by multiple sitting and relaxation areas scattered between treatment rooms and sun bathing areas. There is an outdoor Zen garden throughout more than half of the property, decorated with large and small Buddha statues, as well as resting cabins built like Tibetan-type temples, where you can lay out on cozy pillows, a lounge chair or on your towel to soak in the rays. Did I mention that everyone, roaming the property is butt-naked??? Haha, yes folks. Vabali is a “nude spa” and is not for the faint-at-heart! As we know, this world is filled with loads of people sporting all shapes and sizes - shaved and unshaved body parts; nipped and tucked as well as not-so-nipped and its ALL on-display and out in the open for everyone to see. I do have to say, there is something liberating about this concept. Locking away your cell phones and bling and letting it all hang out with no worries of who’s wearing what. It brings the term “birthday suit” to a whole different level. Its like having a rebirth, only as an adult- like you’re walking up to the pearly gates of heaven saying “take me as I am!” Sorry Charlie, I guess I’m too Americanized and like to keep a little mystery going and letting people use their imagination about personal body bits. Its a little over kill with all the bare “cowbells” dangling and crazy lady-bushes...but hey-that’s just me! “To each their own!” I sported a towel the whole time...especially during lunch time. 

When it was time for my massage, I gathered my robe and made my way towards my private spa suite. I had the pleasure of being in the ‘Lotus I Suite’ which is actually suited for 2 guests. The suite looked like a private hotel bungalow situated on the tree-line of Großer Tiergarten- one of Berlins biggest city-parks (about 320 acres smaller than Central Park in New York City). It had its own cozy sitting area, luxury whirl-pool Jacuzzi bath, and an over-size glass rain shower. It also had a private outdoor terrace that was distinctively decorated with teak lounge chairs, cushions and extra towels for tanning on sunny days. Towards the back of the terrace stood a 10-foot gazebo- which is perfect for a couples massage or body treatment. 

When asked where I would like my massage, I opted for the outdoor gazebo, because I really wanted to take in the au’naturel surroundings and feel the summer breeze accompany the selection of hot aromatherapy oils. My massage therapist was Walid; an older gentleman from Syria that moved to Germany 14 years ago and decided to study the art of massage therapy and Zen related Buddhist remedies. He also learned about Holistic aromatherapy and types of Crystal-chakra therapeutic massages. The Lomi Lomi Nui is a holistic massage that originated in Hawaii. Its a slow and gentle massage where the therapists use their hands and forearms to create long-lasting strokes along the body, so that your muscles can stay calm and rested. The aromatherapy oils are an added bonus because they help elevate the entire experience as well as keep your skin moisturized at the same time.

During my massage Walid did a few chants and made me breathe along with the first 10 strokes of each ligament. It was quite the experience to say the least...I totally zoned out and passed out half way through it. I highly recommend it if you have the time. This massage is usually given in 80 minute intervals. * For the best-long lasting result, sit in one of the saunas after your massage (before you shower). It will allow the oils to sink into your pours a deeply moisturize your skin, letting you keep a refreshing glow for up to two days. 

After my treatment, I was given a cup of hot unsweetened Turkish style tea that helped me to remain “Zen-afied.” I found my way up the stairs and plopped down on one of the 700 beds, and basked in the serene ambiance of the chill-out room that overlooked the Buddha garden. After about a 30-minute snooze, I woke up and did one last tour around the grounds, ending my journey with a nice warm 6-minute shower in the “eL” room. When I was all finished and dressed, I proceeded to the check out with my electronic bracelet...paid the tab, walked down the vestibule and boom- was back in the “REAL WORLD.” It was great to know that places like this exist in such a bustling city- tucked away in the woods. If you’re wondering, How much did he spend? I’ll let YOU take a wild guess...or you can do the math. Log on to www.vabali.de to see the prices and plan your exclusive 2 hr, 4 hr or FULL Day spa adventure. Until the next time, 

Enjoy the GB /SPALIFE!