Do you ever have that moment where you've got to get away but you don't have time to take a full vacay or can't escape work for more than just a few hours? I know I've been there.
It's time to raise the curtain on Le Méridien Chicago - Oakbrook Center and bring this amazing urban retreat into the spotlight.
Located a short ride outside the city, Chicago's Le Méridien offers plush accommodations, two chic restaurants, a spa that rivals all others, and is just a short stroll from the luxury boutiques at Oakbrook Shopping Center. Having undergone a $25 million renovation last year by parent company Renaissance, no amenity was overlooked. Whether you're looking for a stay in Chicago with the calmness of the suburbs or a quick departure from a hectic schedule, look no further: Le Méridien has got you covered.
As someone who admittedly works too much and still squeezes in time for fitness every day, I have a tendency to push my body to its limits. I recently had the pleasure of escaping for a few hours to one of the hotel's spa suites for a rejuvenating deep tissue massage.
The spa suites are perfect for a quiet individual session, couples relaxation, or start to a fabulous girls' night out. Both suites offer a private lounge and wet area. One room boasts a view of the sunrise and the other a view of sunset. After your treatment, you are afforded 40 minutes of complementary relaxation in your suite to enjoy the other amenities, order room service, and otherwise forget that you might have to return to real life shortly thereafter.
Le Méridien offers an array of ESPA's restorative body oils for your massage. It probably goes without saying I was immediately drawn to their Fitness oil. Each oil is scientifically structured to provide maximum benefits in its specific area:
- Detoxifying: Stimulates circulation, decreases the appearance of cellulite
- Energising: Clears & focuses the mind
- Fitness: Warm & stimulating, ideal for tired muscles
- Resistance: Aids in boosting the immune system and overall wellbeing
- Restorative: Comforts in times of emotional stress, tones the skin
- Soothing: Calms and relaxes the body, helps with sleep
I always take a peek at the products spas use, as I am pretty picky about what goes on my skin (particularly after having worked for a natural skincare company!). Le Méridien uses ESPA products for facials and massages, which are made from pure botanical extracts. The company is very transparent not only about what goes into its products, but also their processes for creating them, which I must say is very much appreciated.
Needless to say, I was rejuvenated by my massage, which incorporated some Thai stretching techniques into the session, and left my muscles more relaxed than they'd been in weeks (in addition to a pretty strict fitness regimen I also bartend a few days a week and put a lot of stress on my legs).
Next time you're in Chicago, hit me up for a girls' day out. We can relax at Le Méridien's spa and then hit up Longitude 87 for some craft cocktails. I mean, what else is pampering yourself about?
