The Spa at Steenberg is operated by the experienced Ginkgo Spa & Wellness Group and is a welcome addition to the many and varied facilities enjoyed by guests at our elegant and luxurious establishment. We recently welcomed a new Spa Manger, Lurinda van Hoving, and spent some time relaxing with her to find out more about indulgence, pampering and her tips for putting your best foot forward this spring.

Please tell us about your background?

After I completed my studies of 2 years for Somatology and graduated with 4 International Diplomas, I began my career on the seas – on a 5* luxury cruise liner. I realised that my instinct to manage was nothing out of the ordinary. I soon became Assistant Spa manager and, a year later, re-joined as Spa Manager. Since coming back to SA, I started focusing more on in-depth studies relating to Skin and Technologies. I expanded my knowledge to Business Operations and Sales Technology. In 2012, I joined the lovely Ginkgo Steenberg Spa!

What motivates someone to visit a spa?

There generally are two reasons. One is for a specific spa treatment, i.e. massage or facial, because these areas are in need of attention, or a longer period of time which involves numerous treatments to cover more needs. The
latter will result in the client getting the most out of their visit, and will lead to a more relaxing and pampering experience.

What do you want guests to experience at The Spa at Steenberg?

The client’s spa experience is an investment in itself. The client should always leave feeling better than when they arrived at the spa. That is why it is important for me to know why the client wanted to go to a spa in the first place: this helps me to assess and meet the client’s needs and expectations. And while the spa experience is relaxing, pampering and restorative, it can also be life changing.

What are your top tips for getting the most out of your spa experience?

Make sure you fill out the Client Consultation Card form so that the spa is fully informed about your health history. I would also strongly recommend taking a tour of the facilities – just to make sure that the spa meets your expectations – especially when you intend booking a number of treatments and your stay is a few hours long!

Before finally making your booking, ensure that it is a good time for you to have your treatments. Reschedule your visit if you are not feeling well. If you are going to book a massage, please drink plenty of water for 2-3 days prior your treatment. Do not eat just before your massage.

When should a guest opt for individual treatments, and when should they pick one of the spa packages?

Single treatments are good for individual needs and when a client has limited time. For total relaxation, it is better to book a few compatible treatments together i.e. coupled with leisure time in-between. All of our Packages are designed in such a way that there is one for everybody.

What treatments do you recommend for getting ready for showing some skin this summer?

Our Anti-Cellulite Program of course! 3 words… Exfoliate, Wrap and Homecare! This regime will absolutely ensure best results for cellulite, saggy skin or weight loss.

Your personal absolute favourite treatment?

My absolute favourite is our Ginkgo Body Exfoliation with a Full Body Wrap. I love this treatment because, as the problem areas are treated, the client will be transformed into a total state of relaxation while enjoying the treatment.

Any advice for someone who will be visiting the spa for the first time?

It’s very exciting for someone to go to a Spa for the first time. My advice is to come in comfortable clothes and arrive at least 30 minutes before the treatment. Please remember that, on your first visit, you will be required to fill out a client card to assess your health history. It is very important to be honest with your therapist about your health, because a massage treatment can affect multiple body systems, such as the cardiovascular and nervous systems. Knowing your history allows a therapist to determine if there are any reasons you should avoid a treatment or a particular technique.

Let the therapist know which areas of your body you would like worked on. Once the treatment begins and if at any time you feel self-conscious or experience discomfort or pain, you must inform your therapist immediately. Generally music is played while the treatment is performed. If the music is not to your liking – don’t bear it – it will spoil your treatment, tell your therapist that you would prefer a different type of music or if you prefer silence, she should turn it off! The same goes for the temperature in the room. This is your value time – make sure the ambience is just right!

For more information, or to book your pampering experience, please contact The Spa at Steenberg on +27 (0) 21 713 2222.