Time - and stress - seem to melt away at Angel Spa in Astoria.
On my visit there, I was truly treated like a princess.
The beautiful spa, dressed in warm, calming neutrals, is at once inviting and relaxing.
The fragrance of scented candles wafts subtly through the air, adding yet another layer of tranquility to the setting.
Since this was my very first spa experience, I was a little unsure as to what was to come.
However, owner Rosie Boucos made me feel at home, especially since her spa is decorated much like my living room, with swags, flowers and elegantly upholstered furniture.
My day of pampering began with a full-body Swedish massage. Masseuse Zara Berarv, with 15 years of experience, was extremely attentive and very gentle. She began with my feet and worked her way upward, slowly kneading away my tension.
As she massaged, I felt myself relaxing, letting go of my stress - something I admittedly have a hard time doing. By the time it was over, I felt like a new person. I don't think I have ever been that stress-free before. (I wonder how long the euphoric feeling will last).
After dressing, I was in for another treat.
Patricia Romero, with 18 years experience, gave me a champagne and rose pedicure, in which my feet and legs were exfoliated, massaged, and moisturized.
My skin has never felt so soft and smooth (and she did a great job grooming and polishing my nails too.)
After that, I was excited to have a chocolate manicure. I know, it sounds like every girl's dream - and it is. My hands were massaged with butter cream and enveloped in a luxurious layer of warm, melted chocolate.
Delicious enough to eat, the chocolate was allowed to dry, and then rinsed off and my hands were again massaged, this time with special ingredients that made my skin glow. Romero told me that this treatment can be done all over the body, and is great for brides who want to shine on their wedding day.
Feeling very calm and very spoiled, I sat down for a chat over coffee with Boucos, who told me that she opened Angel Spa in order to give clients “a place to get away.”
A beauty maven, Boucos explained that every treatment, every product in her spa has been chosen and approved by her personally. She pointed out that Angel Spa offers Manhattan services at Queens prices. Their full range of treatments include facials, back and body therapies, hand and feet services, make-up application, and more.
They also offer specialized therapies, such as acne and anti-aging/wrinkle facials, skin lightening (for age spots and discolorations), a non-surgical hand lift, and nail whitening.
Packages are available and moderately priced.
I had such a pleasant, relaxing experience that I purchased a gift certificate for my friend's birthday, and hope to “get away” again soon.
Angel Spa is located at 32-70 Steinway Street in Astoria.
They are open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Sunday (closed Tuesday).
For more information or to make an appointment, call 718-267-6440.
