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This townhouse turned hotel is tucked away on a singularly quiet, residential street in Pimlico—and it's as homey as it gets for a city getaway. Each of the ten rooms is decorated with quirky, colorful finds and limited-edition prints, in a slightly rustic yet perfectly comfortable and characterful manner that makes you feel like you're staying at a good friend's house (who happens to be an excellent host). The stay here has few bells and whistles (i.e., no gym, spa, or the rest) other than its excellent all-day restaurant, the Cambridge Street Cafe—a Brighton import—but is perfect for a short city break.

This is one of our favorite grown-up hotels in London. It is decorated beautifully in subdued tones and offers pretty wonderful services, many of which are geared toward families (on-call babysitters, goody bags, video games). On sunny days, the rooftop pool is the best spot to take in everything on offer: hula hoop classes, alfresco lunch, and twice-daily kids' swim hours. Beyond than the now-famous breakfast spread, there's no lack of dining and boozing options thanks to the Blue Bar, the Berkeley Café, and the luxe terrace bar.

For a while, Blakes was GP's home away from home in London. Touted as the "original boutique hotel," it has style and sex appeal for days while maintaining all the creature comforts (Bang & Olufsen tech, free-standing tubs) of a luxury establishment. The décor in the rooms is plush—expect lots of crushed velvet and jewel tones—and even a little bit escapist, making them ideal for a romantic night or weekend getaway. Plus, the main floor now boasts a sunny dining room, while the bar downstairs has undergone a classy refurb. This spot is as much of a sleek hideaway as it ever was.

COMO is the most quietly luxurious hotel group you’ve probably never heard of. It’s been around since 1991 with Zen-dedicated locations in Bali, Thailand, Bhutan, and more, and its forty-one-bedroom central London property is so discreet that until recently, we didn’t even know it was there. And that’s the idea. The exterior could be another sophisticated building common to the neighborhood, but stepping inside is like stepping into another world. Guest room doors and corridor walls are indistinguishable from one another, flowing in an undulating line of textured wood to mimic walking through a forest. The rooms are almost like sensory deprivation tanks—in the best way possible. Creamy walls, creamier carpets, white sheets, touches of earthy mahogany, and blackout curtains mean your bedroom is a place to rest, recharge, and maybe eat in. Room service at the Halkin is top-notch (and faster than any room service we’ve ever had). Sitting down to dinner wrapped up in soft hotel robes before tumbling into bed after a long day traipsing the city is how we like to vacation.

Knightsbridge is not short on formal hotels that could be mistaken for mausoleums. Walking down toward Chelsea several weeks back, we noticed a flurry of activity on the moneyed Queen Anne–style intersection of Pont and Sloane Street and stopped to take a peek. The Belmond Cadogan was closed for a four-year renovation, and each one of those 1,460 days was entirely worth it. Basement to rooftop, every polished corner is considered. From a literary perspective, the property is iconic—Oscar Wilde was arrested here—and each guest room contains its own mini library curated by John Sandoe books just down the street. If you’re going to splurge on a suite, do it here. The Penthouse Suite sits at the tip-top of the property, which means that aside from being the most gorgeously outfitted room we’ve seen recently—fireplaces, custom artworks, a bathroom the size of most bungalows—its outdoor terrace has a view of London most people never get to see. Locals have already adopted the bar as their own, which lends a convivial buzz to the place. But the best entertainment is the hotel itself—just walk around and take in the myriad design details, British art, and private gardens across the street.

You can't miss the impressive, stone-columned, lantern-laden exterior here, which is reminiscent of old-London sophistication. It's an appropriate setting for this five-star hotel, which overlooks Hyde Park Corner. The rooms are done in grand Regency-period style, complete with original artworks and handcrafted furniture, and all the technology in the rooms is artfully concealed to give guests an authentic experience. In addition to the pomp and comfort (the complimentary amenities are impressive as is the incredible rooftop spa and gym), a meal at the hotel's restaurant, Céleste is a real treat.

You can't go wrong with this bastion of hotel excellence, particularly if you're willing to spring for the big-name price tag. The spa, as you'd expect, is exceptional, but it's the restaurants that stand out. Because you can head downstairs for Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, of Fat Duck fame, you might be hard-pressed to find a reason to leave the hotel at all.

Near the posh shopping area of Sloane Square and occupying a series of Victorian townhouses, this small hotel in Chelsea offers some truly attractive communal areas. And you don’t have to be a guest to use them. There’s a small, clubby bar full of leather chairs and dark, moody lighting for an early-evening drink (or to escape the London drizzle). Our favorite spot, though, is the library. Dreamily quiet, its walls lined with old books and its tables stacked with newspapers, it’s a proper oasis for the freelancer or aspiring novelist—especially with a pot (and then another) of English breakfast tea. For those looking to sleepover, guestrooms are a lesson in English elegance, many with roomy, four-poster beds and picturesque views of the leafy park on the adjacent quiet square.

A lighter, more serene counterpart to the moodier 11 Cadogan Gardens, The Chelsea Townhouse comprises three restored Victorian residences that feel more like an elegant private home than a hotel. The communal spaces are charming and intimate—from a sunlit dining room where a small but delicious breakfast or a leisurely pot of morning tea is served, to cozy corners ideal for curling up with a book or a glass of wine after a day exploring nearby King’s Road. Guestrooms exude understated English elegance, with high ceilings, large bright windows, framed artwork, and views of leafy gardens. Guests also enjoy full access to the amenities at 11 Cadogan Gardens, just around the corner.

Nestled in the heart of Belgravia on the absurdly charming Motcomb street, Amaya is one of our favorite spots for Indian food. Most of the dishes are grilled and bite-sized, which is the perfect excuse to order an abundance of their tasty sides. Favorite menu items: the grilled fish, the duck, and the grilled aubergine.

The bright, large, and airy room with tiled floors, cast-iron panes on the many windows, and tasteful garden furniture (it's attached to the classic Conran Shop) has some of the best oysters in the city and magnificently simple seafood. There's a more formal eating space upstairs, but for a true European air, the relaxed oyster bar is where it's at.

This restaurant is situated in a great location, right on the square, making it the ideal spot for traditional afternoon tea in a posh Chelsea environment (the menu is refreshingly well-priced despite the environs). The Botanist Breakfast, which is perfect for kicking off a full day of wandering, includes a generous main dish and coffee and rings in at £12.

This is Argentinian restaurateur Juan Santa Cruz's very first venture in London, a restaurant with a seriously clubby feel serving up European dishes with a slightly Argentinian bent—i.e., protein-heavy dishes, like beef carpaccio and a perfect, blackened chicken. With dark, velvet-clad walls, a stunning copper bar as a central fixture in the middle of the dining room, and decidedly dim lighting, this eatery has serious sex appeal and is a perfect venue to rent as a whole for a party. The upstairs, which includes a secluded and leafy terrace (for London's good weather), is also available for rent.

Not only is the Thai food delicious here but it's served at awesome prices—all amid myriad green, overgrown hanging plants in the back dining room. The bar area in front is traditional English style and gets crowded.

Well, the actual dinner you'll eat will be created by Ashley Palmer-Watts, the executive head chef of the Fat Duck group, who worked with Blumenthal to create the exquisite modern British fare here. Being that this place is inside the Mandarin Oriental, it attracts a high-profile clientele—both hotel guests and locals—who like to linger in the warm, handsome room.

Ffiona's serves traditional, rustic staples, like steak and kidney pie and an amazing sticky toffee pudding, but the raison d'être is Ffiona herself, the ever-present owner who makes every customer feel like a personal guest in her small, wooden, candlelit restaurant. Ffiona has recently added an excellent brunch every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with everything from the a English breakfast to fluffy pancakes (and a free cocktail on Saturday). Her traditional Sunday roast is not to be missed.

Known for his relaxed approach to cooking, Bill Granger has fronted major culinary hits in Australia and Asia. This bright, airy, and generally packed place on Westbourne Grove is his first London restaurant, and like its predecessors, it offers casual all-day dining with a comfort-food slant (awesome mash) and a fantastic weekend brunch. Look for simple dishes, like the signature ricotta hotcakes or the full Aussie breakfast. The no-reservation policy means you'll probably have to wait, but it's totally worth it. For the North Londoners reading, there's a second location in King's Cross, plus two more in Clerkenwell and Chelsea.

If you’re visiting London, it’s sort of a requirement to visit a pub, and the Grenadier is our long-time favorite. It’s tucked away in a cobblestone mews and features a cozy fireplace for rainy days. Once you’ve settled in, take the time to sample the fantastic beer menu and indulge in some classic pub food.

This idyllic little French restaurant in Chelsea is well documented as one of the most romantic restaurants in London. The décor is French countryside without being cheesy, complete with candlelit nooks, dried flowers, and cluttered wall decorations. The classic French fare (ratatouille, coq au vin) lives up to the ambience. The chocolate mousse is not to be missed.

This noisy, crowded spot in Chelsea makes fresh pizza in wood-burning ovens. The crust has that Neopolitan just-chewy-enough consistency that makes it impossible to put down, even after you're a few slices in.

Mazi is pushing the boundaries of Greek food (think feta tempura) with a slight French influence (the husband-and-wife owners are French and Greek, respectively). Dips in jars and innovative signature large plates are served with Greek wines and ouzo in a clean, contemporary space in Notting Hill.

Mediterranean-inspired Ottolenghi sort of defies categorization: The four locations differ slightly in their offerings, but they all feature some level of sit-down dining, a deli with premade takeout, and excellent catering. Don't be surprised to find a line no matter what time you arrive but know that it's worth the wait for the near-perfect pastries, quiches, and salads. If you don't have time to cook before a dinner party, it's an excellent choice for a meal that you can pick up and bring home.

During winter, the garden transforms into a posh winter wonderland, complete with fake snow, fluffy blankets, and real fireplaces. There's nice greenery in warmer months, too. Inside, you'll find a dining area, a bar decorated with leather and books, a lounge, and even a deli counter.

Located on a quiet street in upscale Holland Park, this new British bistro has all the makings of a classic. There's no trendy furniture or lighting, there are no small plates—in fact, there are no gimmicks whatsoever, just great food, service, and an extensive wine list. The seasonal menu is British with some Mediterranean inflection here and there, and the meat, from lamb sweetbreads to boudin blanc, makes for phenomenal comfort food. Even if you're not a Holland Park resident, you'll feel, at least for a few hours, like this is your old neighborhood joint.

Mexican friends living abroad have proudly declared Taqueria the best Mexican restaurant in London. This bustling Notting Hill establishment offers excellent comida corrida, which isn't easy to find in England. The tacos and antojitos are fresh and authentic, and you can even buy the salsas, spices, and tortillas to take home for your own taco night. Dropping in is easy; though it’s always full, the tables turn over quickly.

This elegant gastropub has open fireplaces for a cozy effect in winter and floor-to-ceiling windows that open out onto Elizabeth Street in warmer months. The comprehensive bar menu (which ranges from rock oysters to a steak and Guinness pie) should leave you wanting for nothing, but in case you are, a more formal (and pricey) dining room menu is served on the first floor.

This spot offers small plates and inventive nigiri that's served sans soy sauce to keep the spotlight on the beautiful, natural flavors. The dishes at Yashin are more gourmet than traditional, so imagine offerings like miso cappuccino and truffle infusions in addition to a few hot, tapas-style picks. Come here for excellent food in an unpretentious setting. Case in point: the £30 omakase option.

A few years ago, it felt as if nobody could stop talking about Zuma. Sometimes too much hype can turn you off of a restaurant, but that's not the case here. More than ten years after its opening, this favorite still serves one of the best meals in London. The nouvelle Japanese cuisine remains creative and unexpected, and the sushi chef, Endo, is still dishing up our favorite sushi outside of Japan. The vibe here can be a little bit loud and clubby, but it doesn't matter—we would literally sit outside in the rain to eat this food.

The tea sommelier at The Lanesborough is there to guide you through your experience and selection of teas, many of which have been purchased at auctions. Traditional tea, served with all the beloved trimmings including freshly baked scones, thick clotted cream, and homemade preserves, is taken in the hotel's opulent Céleste restaurant or The Withdrawing Room.

Aux Merveilleux de Fred specializes in delicious concoctions of delightfully light, soft cream and crystallized meringue. These cakes come in six different flavors—all amazing—but the Merveilleux and the Incroyable are probably our favorites. The brioche is also noteworthy.

The David Collins–designed space is true to its name, with blue hues and contemporary furnishings throughout. The cocktails are as good as you would expect from the Berkeley, complete with a liquid amuse-bouche. Overall, a wonderful hotel bar.

With four London locations in addition to their Gloucestershire farm, Daylesford Organic's farmshops—they're also home to small cafés perfect to work or read from—are an amazing place to get a very literal taste of the English countryside. You can pop in to buy the local, organic, and humanely raised groceries, or stick around to try their straightforward (but stellar) menu. Their Gloucestershire farm, home to the largest and most elaborate of their farmshops, is well worth the trip if you have the time (you can also spend the night).

This is one of those incredibly versatile cafés that there aren't enough of: The Wi-Fi flows freely; the space is gorgeous, decked out in sea-green tiles and elegant line drawings; and there are matcha lattes (with every kind of milk, from almond to coconut and beyond) on tap. And then there's the actual food, which ticks every box: There are açai bowls and a fantastic vegan BLT for lunch, plus the fluffiest pancakes or the hard-core rump steak sandwich with harissa for the indulgent. Farm Girl is an all-rounder.

Green juices, superfood salads, acai bowls, and the like are the health-infused, light, protein-packed goodies offered at this all-day café. The concept is further improved by the fact that if you go to the café (and manage to snag a spot), it's Wi-Fi-free and meant for "real" conversation or reading, though if you'd rather take away, you can also have it delivered. This is the original—thanks to huge lines, a second location has opened in Belgravia—but with better-quality food in such high demand, it's bound to keep growing.

Harrods’ food halls are a gourmand's dream. Unbelievably fresh produce, the best fishmonger in London, and almost any obscure ingredient can be found in this maze of delights (with a price tag to match). Alongside all of the gorgeous meats, nuts, breads, prepared foods, and anything else you could imagine are all of the food stalls where you can stop for anything from the finest Belgian chocolate to a NYC deli-style sandwich. Heaven.

The Hummingbird Bakery landed in Notting Hill in early 2004 to become the home of quality American baking in London. Today it has five branches across the city—in Soho, South Kensington, Spitalfield, and Islington in addition to the original in Notting Hill—and is famed the world over for its delicious cupcakes and other sweet treats and desserts.

Complete with the Iron Lady's speeches sounding from the bathroom speakers, this tongue-in-cheek club pays homage to the ’80s. Rad graffiti-style murals (including one of Super Mario), Rubix Cube–inspired tables, and a smattering of Thatcher portraits lend it kitschy appeal. It's a great destination for a fun—albeit expensive—night out in Chelsea.

Partridges stocks food from around the globe you can't find anywhere else in London, including a large American section. The original is on Sloane Square.

This small, beautiful, leafy square in the heart of Belgravia transforms into a great farmers' market on Saturdays, selling everything from fresh seafood from the East Anglian coast to amazing homemade cheeses and fruits from the acclaimed Chegworth Valley. It's really an intimate and special food-shopping experience.

We love this thoughtfully packed confectionery for its old-fashioned blue-and-white packaging and sweetly illustrated chocolate boxes. We're hooked on the rose and violet chocolates, but you can personalize an assortment to suit your tastes. Meanwhile, the molded chocolates are beautiful—i.e., they're great souvenirs to take back home.

A large communal table, with an almost equally large bowl of fresh communal pastries, dominates the petite café that serves breakfast and brunch favorites, sandwiches, and all-day nibbles. The coffee is king here, including unique house espresso blends, ever-changing filter options, and impossibly frothy cappuccinos. Additional outdoor seating on Ebury Street makes for prime SW1 people-watching in warmer weather.

A London foodie hub, this store is crammed with cookbooks, food writing, books on nutrition, fiction, and more. New releases and classic tomes are mixed together by this store's knowledgeable staff. The shop has its own test kitchen, where you can sample many of the recipes the Books for Cooks staff is excited to try. Don't miss the themed workshop meals in the demonstration kitchen upstairs, where you'll learn how to make global cuisines from a group of experts in different foodie fields.

Run by husband-and-wife team Ian Paley and Emily Dyson, this multilevel space is stocked with independent designers from all over the globe. While the women's section is home to plenty of international names that are hard to find elsewhere (along with a strong NYC contingent like Rachel Comey and Steven Alan), it's the meticulously edited kids’ selection—Morley tees, Oeuf toys—that's earned the shop praise from locals and visitors alike.

There's a good chance you would find De Gournay without a heads up from us, if only because it's nearly impossible to walk by its windows without getting drawn into the elegant showroom. It offers fabrics, furniture, plates, and custom design services, but De Gournay's true specialty is luxury hand-painted wallpapers in Chinoiserie patterns. Owner Claud Cecil Gurney seeks out painters who have been in the business for generations, and the wallpapers are indisputably the best in this increasingly rare trade.

With ninety showrooms of some of the biggest names in design, this is not for the faint-hearted, so think about enlisting the personal shopping service, which makes the massive space and selection a bit easier to take on. Don't miss Cole & Son, Edelman Leather, Tai Ping, The Nanz Company, and Stark Carpet and Fabric, to name a very few.

From copper pots to the best selection of electric kettles (an English staple), you'll find pretty much every essential for outfitting a kitchen here. It's the big stuff, and the small stuff, including a variety of French presses, the best ovens, and great salt and pepper shakers.

Hidden in a mews house on a noncommercial street, Egg is a total gem of a store, selling simply cut yet luxurious pieces that make for great casualwear. It's hard to find any fault with its clean, airy aesthetic.

From chairs to ottomans, couches to chaise lounges, everything here is upholstered, and handcrafted in the store's own workshops. A majority of the designs (many of which are George Smith's originals) are centuries old and very traditional, but when paired with the right fabrics, they can add a bit of classic elegance to a contemporary interior.

This iconic floristry business is thirty years old—and still going strong. Lush, colorful, and seasonal bunches—inspired by the English countryside—are what's on offer at this legendary spot, which is why they've been endlessly replicated across the city. Harper & Tom's offers flower delivery subscriptions—they will come and arrange all the vases in your house—along with gardening contracts in a similar, countrified vein.

Sure, it's the city's most legendary, over-the-top shopping destination and it stocks all the upscale brands you'd expect (the markdowns at sale time are ridiculously good), but it's the food hall and ice cream shop that keep us coming back, particularly because littles go wild for the tastes-better-than it sounds spaghetti ice cream. The variety, presentation, and quality really are unsurpassed, though the price tags mean that it's only an occasional indulgence. It’s also just a beautiful and majestic space.

Shopping the Harvey Nichols flagship is one of life's great pleasures as it's often quiet and crowdless. Beyond having the most well-curated selection of contemporary lines in London and a shoe department that is never disappointing, the seasonal sales are legendary. As if that weren't enough to make you want to move in forever, there are also salons, spas, and the Fifth Floor—a sort of high-end cafeteria with great food and cocktails.

Here, you'll find around 25,000 books piled on every imaginable surface, from tabletops to the staircase. The shop has a literary slant but stocks all sorts of titles, from architecture tomes to cookbooks to thrillers.

This shop provides a tiny sneak preview into architect John Pawson's vision for the museum. Colorful design objects, gadgets, toys, and gizmos are carefully arranged on a Vitsoe shelving system on dark grey walls, creating a beautiful and contrasting display. It's a great selection of small, affordable gifts and more high-concept pieces for the real design lover like John Pawson designed ceramic bowls, a Barber & Osgerby teapot, Artek's Alvar Aalto stools and the like.

Hand-knotted silk rugs are Luke Irwin's specialty: His work is incredibly luxurious, soft to the touch, and eye-catching. No two carpets are the same, as all his work is made in conversation with the client.

The Organic Pharmacy specializes in herbal and homeopathic treatments and supplements and is a place where you can get a custom mix to suit your specific needs. You'll also find a great range of beauty and skin-care products that you can also buy Organic Pharmacy products at goop.

This Notting Hill shop started out selling traditional tailored swim trunks for men and women, and the brand quickly expanded to include more colorful and extremely well-made basics.

Interior designers, collectors, and discerning shoppers head to Pimlico Road for all things home. Check websites for individual retailers' details and opening times.

Here, a seemingly endless row of stalls is packed with everything from antiques and china to books, furniture, and vintage clothes; in addition, there's a section where you can buy beautiful fresh produce and delicious prepared food. It gets busy on weekends, but squeezing through the crowds on this adorable old street is an essential London experience.

Trained as a restorer and gilder, Rose Uniacke's eye for material is unparalleled. So it makes sense that in her store, the eighteenth-, nineteenth-, and twentieth-century antiques are all given plenty of space to show themselves off. Uniacke also offers an interior design service and a bespoke range made with her trademark appreciation for the age and condition of the materials she uses.

Lulu Lytle has outfitted some of London's most upscale restaurants and hangouts, like Cecconi's, the Connaught, and Soho House. Her work, including understated leather upholstery pieces, is beautifully crafted and made in England: It's the perfect blend of elegance and coziness.

Nicky Kinnaird's beauty emporium has launched more than one of the best skin-care brands known today. Lines like Tata Harper, Laura Mercier, and Eve Lom were virtually unknown before winning shelf space here. If you're looking for some skin-care advice, Space NK is a good place to mix up your beauty regimen. There are locations throughout the city.

Born out of a friendship between June Summerill and the late Bernadette Bishop, their store is one of Holland Park's hidden gems, worth venturing a few minutes out of Notting Hill to visit. With an eye for hand-crafted home goods - June & Bernadette forged relationships with many international ceramicists, textile artists and glassblowers - and merchandise their goods in their own style. The best hand painted tablecloths, in an array of patterns all designed in their in house studio, handblown glassware, plus essential kitchenware round out the offerings. This is a dreamy, beautiful store that is over 25 years strong. They sell internationally through their website.

At this Philippe Starck–designed (and gilded) shop, you'll find all Taschen's trademark tomes on art, photography, fashion, architecture, film, erotica, and more. Conveniently placed right across the street from the Saatchi Gallery, this is a shop for the well-heeled art lover. The gallery space downstairs shows off certain titles in more detail.

Nikki Tibbles' flower emporium is over twenty years strong, making her a household name and her shops—a concession at the entrance of Liberty, a landmarked turqoise street island in Notting Hill, and a formal Chelsea boutique—an institution. You can count on Wild at Heart for their signature graphic bouquets which make perfect gifts no matter what the occasion. Their seasonal jam jar bouquets make a particularly thoughtful gift for the host as they're so easy to throw on the table or mantle for quick dinnertime decor.

Beyond being a beautiful place to pass an afternoon, this is also London's oldest botanical garden (it dates back to 1673). Don't miss the newest addition, the Garden of Edible and Useful Plants, where you'll find foliage with a variety of uses, from perfume to cosmetics. P.S. Closed Saturdays.

This historical garden center—in existence since the nineteenth-century—is where Londoners go to start their urban oases. The variety is as endless as the knowledge of its kind staff. If you're feeling hands-off, there's a design and installation service here to suit your needs both large and small.

Since its opening by Queen Victoria in 1871, Royal Albert Hall has been home to innumerable concerts and performances. In fact, it hosts about 350 events per year, including classical concerts (it has been home to the annual summer Proms since 1941), rock and pop, ballet, opera, awards ceremonies, and more. Every act from Led Zeppelin to Les Misérables, Cirque du Soleil, and Adele has graced the magnificent building, which remains one of London's most distinct and treasured landmarks.

Charles Saatchi's gallery is famous for championing artists before the rest of the art world catches on. Legendary for his early support of Damien Hirst and the rest of the YBAs (that's Young British Artists, for the uninitiated), Saatchi's roster is still one of the most forward-thinking in contemporary art. The excellent on-site Gallery Mess Cafe and its daily afternoon tea service (there's a boozy version that involves a jug of Pimm's and an option for kids, too) deserve mention.

Here, both adults and kiddos can explore virtually every scientific topic of the modern world, including space, agriculture, energy, time, medicine, psychology, and even identity. There's a 3D Imax theater, an Apollo 4-D Cinema, galleries, hands-on displays, flight simulators, and much more. While it's easy to pretend it's just for the kids, you'll be shocked by how much you'll learn yourself.

The Serpentine Galleries are a must-see for contemporary art lovers. Located in a former teahouse, the original Serpentine Gallery continues to champion cutting-edge modern art, and if you walk across Serpentine Lake, the collection extends to the new Sackler Gallery, which was designed by Pritzker Prize–winning architect Zaha Hadid. Take the time to explore the grounds, including the Gallery’s Pavilion, which provides a site for architectural experimentation with temporary structures that is always worth checking out.

After the 2013 restoration of the grand Victorian building and the chronological rehanging of the permanent collection, it's all the more paramount you make the trip to this classic art institution. You'll find all the British masters here.

The considerable permanent collection at the V&A has been scrupulously curated over the course of almost 200 years—and spans thousands—to fit the museum's design and fashion slant. The visiting exhibit program is just as exciting (like the Alexander McQueen Savage Beauty exhibit). With its Victorian flourishes, the actual space that contains the 140-plus galleries is one giant piece of art in and of itself.

Unlike many aestheticians who rely solely on traditional lotions and potions to treat skin maladies, Anastasia Achilleos targets the facial structures, including the lymph nodes, fascia, and muscles. She offers a huge range of therapies, including deep cleansing, steam, extraction, and bespoke massages to lift, depuff, soften dark circles and hyperpigmentation, and reduce congestion in sinuses. Her sessions are relaxing, and she makes sure to teach her clients how to best manage their skin at home.

The positive affirmations emblazoned on the windows catch your eye first. Then the fluttering pieces of paper taped to the doorframe with words like “gratitude,” “love,” and “forgiveness” (pull off what you need—the equivalent of a wellness fortune cookie, without the cookie) lure you in. Through the Aussie-style café (an amazing spot for a turmeric latte or to plow through emails), down the stairs is Bodyism, a wellness-mecca-meets-private-members’-club. Unlike other private gyms, there isn’t a treadmill in sight; instead, Bodyism is focused on personal training and classes, teaching clients to be kind to themselves with a more low-impact routine than the often punishing cardio regimes found elsewhere. The ballet, yoga, Pilates, and boxing are taught—for the most part—by former athletes and everyone here remembers your name.

While it's no surprise that one of London's swankiest hotels would have a bejeweled spa and gym to match, it's the treatments on offer that really make the Bulgari stand out. Cupping, Chinese Tui-Na, the Bowen Technique, osteopathy, and even emotional healing with a self-proclaimed "Modern Day Wizard" (price tag to match) are on offer here. In addition, the spa's Trend Room is home to the hottest pop-up wellness concepts and changes every few months.

This place is incredible for parents. The idea is that of a members' club, but for families. The kids take over the ground floor (with supervised activities, soft play, and a plant-based café to feed them), while the grown-ups have their own spa-restaurant-tearoom oasis upstairs. The top floor is the treatment sanctuary with acupuncture, colonics, a nutritionist, and cryotherapy chambers at the ready. Refreshingly, membership is completely nonexclusive. Anyone can join (for a yearly fee), and having children is not a prerequisite.

Dr. Dray is a serious name around town when it comes to cosmetic dermatology. He invented mesolift, an aesthetic treatment that involves injecting a custom hyaluronic-acid-based vitamin-and-mineral cocktail into the skin for an intense dose of hydration from the inside out. Don't let the idea of needles scare you; you'll start with a consultation, the injections aren't deep, and Dr. Dray has been at this for close to three decades. The procedure takes fewer than twenty minutes, and the results—supple, more youthful skin—are essentially immediate. There's a host of other skin-care services, plus treatments for your hair and hands, and it's all done in a beautiful new clinic in Kensington.

Esther Fieldgrass has a few clinics around London in neighborhoods including Chelsea, Kensington, and St. John’s Wood. The clinics specialize in invasive and noninvasive aesthetic procedures, and the services and beautiful offices make them a favorite of ours for peels, laser procedures, and microneedling, as well as more-intense treatments.

Fertility expert Emma Cannon specializes in helping soon-to-be and new mothers at her offices in Chelsea and the West End. A registered acupuncturist and an expert in women’s health, her techniques sit between Eastern and Western healing traditions. The Fertility Rooms are her center of gravity, where she provides nutritional advice, acupuncture, and full-body diagnostics to support couples trying to get pregnant or women recovering from postpartum depression. She also runs an IVF support clinic.

There’s only one word for Estelle Bingham’s practice: transformative. Or maybe two: utterly transformative. Her particular combination of crystal healing and guided meditation melts away the anxieties of modern life. She’s done this for twenty years, and if you choose to surrender and commit some time to exploring her methods of holistic healing, the results can be remarkable. You can book sessions either at Bamford’s sparkling new well-being haven in Brompton Cross or privately.

Having worked in fashion PR, Eve Kalinik understands the crazy pace at which some of her clients live and how they might not have the time to make their own meals, let alone eat at regular hours. This is probably what makes her one of the most in-demand nutritional therapists of the moment. Kalinik focuses on teaching her clients new eating habits that they can actually stick to and introducing foods that are within their reach. Plus, she's into the nitty-gritty, looking into hormone imbalances, food intolerances, and digestive issues when needed to get to the root of her patients' issues.

Former Spa Junkie columnist at the Financial Times Inge Theron is the founder of this enterprise. Which makes sense, as only someone who has experienced hundreds of spas, treatments, and Eastern and Western wellness philosophies could have come up with something so smart. FaceGym is not a facial; it’s a workout for the muscles, fascia, and lymph glands that make up your face. And it’s completely noninvasive. A therapist will knead, press, and gently slap your face for thirty minutes, and the result is kind of incredible. Your cheekbones look lifted, your eyes are less puffy, and the rush of blood to the face gives your complexion a healthy glow. The shorter appointment times and convenient locations mean you can squeeze this facial workout into a lunch break.

Josh Wood is definitely one of the best salons in London. On any given day, you'll run into London's editors, celebrities, PR ladies, and people in the know. They all flock here because the haircuts are amazing and the stylists, who are cool and friendly, work with the biggest names out there. You are guaranteed to be pleased with your cut or color.

Trained in both the ancient art of Reiki and the modern science of neurolinguistic programming, Light combined the two to create her own approach, aptly named the Light Technique. Light generally sees patients for a course of four to six appointments and combines talk therapy with Reiki, the idea being that the Reiki relieves pain and helps you relax, while the NLP helps to change our own deeply held habits and beliefs—that's when the real breakthroughs happen. Each session is tailored to the client and Light regularly helps people with everything from stress and anxiety to weight gain, hormonal imbalance, grief, and fatigue. Her massages in and of themselves are a treat.

When it comes to bodily aches and pains, there's often more to it than meets the eye, which is exactly what osteopath Kristian Wood addresses. He's well versed in fixing injuries, but his healing practice takes his appointments much further than that. Part of a session with Wood might involve physical touch to release a trapped muscle or nerve, and the rest is a mix of energy healing and therapy, so that aches caused by emotional stresses and blockages can be dislodged for good.

OG skin whisperer Linda Meredith has worked on everyone from Farrah Fawcett to Kate Middleton, and she's one of the facialists local goop friends swear by. An appointment at her Knightsbridge salon is definitely worth the splurge. Her team identifies, treats, and eliminates skin conditions with restorative algae-oxygen therapy, plumping collagen treatments, and more.

Most treatments consist of a combination of yellow and near-infrared light (longer wavelengths that penetrate skin more deeply and are shown to help stimulate healing and ease pain), but for clients with congestion, courses of bacteria-eliminating blue light are most effective. It's worth making a habit—results are said to be cumulative—and it doesn't hurt that the salon is located inside Harvey Nichols.

A haven for serious and amateur yogis alike—just check into its packed Islington Saturday morning Jivamukti classes for a taste—both Life Centre locations are also hubs for some of London's best alternative therapies, including cranio-sacral therapy, lymphatic drainage, reflexology, Reiki, and more. While the therapy rooms are not what you'd get at a glitzy hotel spa, the therapists are incredible healers. The original location in Islington has also recently opened up a yoga therapy clinic, where personalized yoga sessions treat a suite of maladies, whether they be digestive, endocrine, or emotional.

Using a mix of acupuncture, LED light, and even tuning forks (the vibrations have soothing, stress-easing effects), the facials here leave clients with a serious glow, balanced skin, and an even deeper sense of calm. We’re especially in love with the Chi Rejuvenation Facial, fifty minutes of acupressure, gua sha, and jade rolling, all of which energize skin by supposedly stimulating the flow of chi.

Joanne Evans’s Skin Matters is down a flight of stairs on pretty, Holland Park street. The treatment beds emit infrared light, the neutral-tone rooms and relaxation area encourage deep calm, and the facials are skin-changing. Evans has been tending faces for over two decades, and her specialty is problematic and eczema-afflicted skin. She has a beautifully light touch and uses incredible active formulas, along with collagen-supporting microneedling.

Suman is the brow guru in London as far as we're concerned. Using traditional threading methods, she has a natural knack for creating flattering shapes that don't appear overdone or unnatural, which is why she's gathered a devoted client list across London. In addition, Suman also does LashLift and lash tint treatments. She mostly operates out of a salon in South Kensington, though she also does home visits.

We were sad to see Triyoga's beautiful Primrose Hill location go, but we are more than satisfied with its new airy Camden replacement. Beyond the well-known yoga and Pilates classes—by far, some of the best the city has to offer—it's also worth booking infrared sauna sessions, cranio-sacral massage, intuitive readings, and nutritional, EFT, and CBT therapy.

Vanessa Kandiyoti is a polymath—which alone is reason to be fascinated by her. Born in Belgium, with Turkish origins, the former jewelry designer now resides in West London, where she teaches meditation, compassion, and deep calm. Kandiyoti leads group sessions, but is also available for one-on-ones. Aside from having the most calming voice and soothing manner, Kandiyoti is a fascinating and optimistic person, so whether you’re an experienced meditator or a novice, you’ll leave feeling centered and uplifted.

Though she's probably most famous for her six-week weight-loss program called The B, Wake also provides nutritional advice for people who are recovering from serious illnesses, reteaching them how to eat according to their new needs. The reason her nutritional advice works, and why she's so well thought of by people like Lily Simpson at the Detox Kitchen, is her warm personality and her adaptable programs. She prescribes nutritional plans according to your lifestyle and makes you stick with it under her watch so that it's not just advice but habit-forming change. Wake also doubles as a life coach, and invariably, when you're trying to make big life changes, it often starts with making small food swaps.

This indoor skate park offers full-day lessons for beginner and advanced skateboarders of all ages, as well as skate camps and after-school clubs. Kids especially love Gary, but all the guys are very knowledgeable, friendly, and welcoming. The skate park itself is an iconic scene of punk life in London.

These beautiful boutiques are now peppered across the city and stock impeccably crafted, stylish, yet age-appropriate childrenswear. The clothes are classic with a distinct French feel and a painstaking attention to detail, from the hand-stitching to the organic cotton. Bonpoint also carries shoes, toys, books, and more. It's pretty expensive, but you totally get what you pay for, so whatever you buy for your oldest now will still be in pristine condition for your youngest years later.

Established in London in 1918 by a Japanese immigrant, the Budokwai is still regarded as London's premier martial arts club. Don't let this intimidate the little ones—the juniors classes are particularly great, and in addition to judo, Budokwai offers karate, aikido, and jiujitsu for all levels from beginner to master. Kids are taught carefully, and judo teaches more than just fitness: Patience, discipline and self-defense are among the other qualities gained.

Originally built in 1910, Electric Cinema is one of the oldest movie theaters in the UK: It's been running on and off since that time, but it caught our attention when it was leased to Soho House as part of its Electric House property. The Saturday night Kids Club shows a great selection of films for little ones, and kids love hanging out in the unusual leather sofa seating.

Ball pools, indoor ride, and go-karts are just a few of the highlights offered at this mega kids center. You can keep a littles entertained here for an entire afternoon, which is precisely why it's such a popular birthday party venue.

Divided by the Serpentine Lake, the impossible-to-miss Hyde Park is central London's most prominent chunk of greenery. It's worth getting lost: You'll find the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial; an awesome pirate ship playground; the very cool Serpentine Gallery; the lakeside Lido Café; sports facilities; boating; seasonal events; and many wonderful walks and paths to wander. From November to January of each year, the entire place is decked out in holiday decorations for the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, including an ice-skating rink and a winter festival.

Built in 1881, the Natural History Museum is also a world-renowned research center and boasts as much historical significance as scientific: Specimens collected by Darwin can be still be found in its halls. In addition to permanent galleries (we love the Earth Galleries, designed by Neal Potter) and exciting exhibitions, the museum features a wildlife garden, shows, films, hands-on activities for kids, and more. Especially fun for kids are the Dino Snores sleepovers, where, in Night at the Museum fashion, kids discover what happens when staff and visitors go home. During the holidays, they'll also enjoy the museum's outdoor skating rink (which can be reserved in its entirety for private sessions with an ice marshal). While it's wonderful for families, the museum proves equally interesting for adults, who can enjoy programs like Nature Live and talks with experts in science and natural history. Go right before 10 a.m. and enter on the right-hand side near the science museum to dodge the lines.

This newly refurbished and serene playground at St. Luke's church is tucked away behind King's Road. There are plenty of swings, picnic tables, jungle gyms, and climbing equipment. The gardens just next door are great, too.

This private members’ club comes at a price, but the variety of activities available to kids and parents is pretty astounding. It’s located right in Chelsea, with views of the Thames; parents can enjoy the gourmet food, stunning modern décor, and the amazing views, while kids have the options of beach club (indoor pool), massive soft play center, music booth, kitchen (with cooking activities), music room, and art lab. Kids will love it, and adults will find the whole experience oddly peaceful for a kids’ activity center.

See the city from a different angle: Choose from a sightseeing cruise of your chosen stretch of the river (we like Thames Limo, which leaves from Fulham), enjoy tea on the Thames, or simply use the regular boat service as an alternative to the Tube. Single fares range from just under £4 to £13, depending on how far you want to go. For around £15, you can get a River Roamer ticket that entitles you to unlimited travel to all of London's fifteen piers.

Several goop staffers are longtime fans of the Lanserhof’s clinic in Austria. So we were delighted when they opened their first UK clinic, across the street from the Arts Club in Mayfair. The custom-tailored programs at this medical spa and gym marry time-honored holistic treatments with modern medicine. Arts Club members and Lanserhof patients can avail themselves of the top-notch facilities that include Britain’s first cryotherapy chambers, treatment rooms for sports injuries, diagnostics with the clinic’s doctors, and a thoughtfully crafted menu of healthy food to tuck into post-treatment.

We were sad to see Triyoga's beautiful, Primrose Hill location go but are more than satisfied with its new airy, Camden replacement. Beyond the well-known yoga and Pilates classes—by far, some of the best the city has to offer—it's also worth checking out the infrared sauna sessions, craniosacral massage, intuitive readings, and nutritional, EFT, and CBT therapy (depending on what you're after).

The Grace is a boon to womankind as far as we're concerned: A private, women-only club in one of London's upper-crust neighborhoods, it's as great to hit for a business meeting as it is for a spa break, a green juice, a healthy lunch, or any number of holistic treatments with some of the city's most renowned healers. It's a one-stop shop for everything from colonics to IV infusions, and those who have the spare cash might consider the three- to five-day Intensive Cleanse, which includes a nutritional plan and everything from lymphatic drainage to Acqua Calda hammam treatments. It's a pretty great place to kick-start a health and wellness regimen.

Dr. Joshi's clinic is one of our first ports of (detox) call in London. In addition to colonics, Dr. Joshi also offers a pretty in-depth list of other wellness-centric services including personal training, massage, Endermologie, and his signature twenty-one-day nutritional plan, which are all designed to help detox. The clinic also offers a spectacular Moroccan riad retreat for the weary.

While Gazelli is already known for its skin-care range developed by Dr. Zarifa Hamzayeva, you can expect the therapies offered at the sumptuous new HQ to go way beyond the surface. Membership to the beautiful townhouse on Walton Street comes with two signature diagnostic treatments. Whether you go for a facial or a body treatment, each session is completely bespoke and could include anything from microdermabrasion to radio frequency. After that, Gazelli also offers introductions to a variety of other practitioners, from life coaches to hypnotists, to get you glowing from the inside out.

Though the hotel is located right in the center of the city overlooking Piccadilly, its subterranean spa feels miles away from the bustling streets above. The space itself is gorgeous, and spending a couple of hours between the sleek and modern gym, pool, and hammam facilities makes for a pretty spectacular spa day. When you book in with some of the expert healers—a resident Reiki master, nutritionist, etc.—the spa also doubles as the most luxurious practitioner's office ever.

With a chiropractor, psychotherapist, gynecologist, and even a sports therapist and podiatrist all in the same place, the London Wellness Centre is focused on prevention above all else. With all these services available, it's also taking a completely integrative approach to health care. Co-owner and lead chiropractor Joanna Lowry-Corry is an incredibly thoughtful practitioner who takes the time to get to know her patients and is a font of knowledge when it comes to overall wellness. With locations in Canary Wharf and right near the Shard, it's hitting London's nerve center when it comes to stress-related issues.

Yoga is big in London (as it is everywhere), but there are few places we have enjoyed practicing more than Yogarise. Held on an upper floor of a South London warehouse, classes are large, but the experience feels incredibly intimate. This is no run-of-the-mill Ashtanga. Classes are taught to music that stretches from classical and instrumental to traditional Indian. The yin class, taught by Emma Peel, not only focuses on stretching out the hips and lower back but is a meditative experience unlike any we’ve had. Peel recites poetry, the music seems to ebb and flow with the stretches (which you hold for up to five minutes), and the room smells comfortingly—never overwhelmingly—of incense. Mats, blocks, and blankets are freely provided, and the relaxation area, filled with art house magazines, herbal teas, and works by local artists, is a space you could spend hours in.

A relatively recent renovation to the spa and gym at London’s grande dame the Lanesborough takes wellness to the next level. The gym is first-class and available to guests and members with a slew of performance specialists on hand for one-on-one and class training,as well as full health assessments. Box, run, weight lift, dance, yoga you name it—it’s all available, plus a café that features nutritionist-led dishes and drinks for lunch after a workout. Highlights at the spa include Ila facials, crystal sound healing (pure sound vibrations made using a pestle and crystal bowl), and Tibetan energy healing. The biggest draw however is an energetic healing facial with the renowned Anastasia Achilleos (Achilleos has a residency on Thursdays, be sure to book early). The pool is one of the prettiest in London, and overall, the Lanesborough feels much more like a retreat than a fitness club.

Not to hate on food delivery, but the sevices we really want on demand lean more to the mani, pedi, waxing, and spray tanning side of things. This is where the Salonettes come in. They’re a team of beauty therapists spread out all over London. And setting up an appointment couldn’t be easier: Create an account online, select your service (or services? Nice!), pick a date and time, and give LeSalon the address for your home, hotel, or office. (Fun fact: goop’s VIP guru Kelly fell in love with LeSalon after one of the Salonettes rushed to goop Lab London to fix her failing manicure just in time for an event). Founder Natasha Pilbrow empowers the team to manage their own hours and work when it works for them, so LeSalon’s hours of operation stretch from early morning to late-late. Another reason we love the company and concept: Among Pilbrow’s priorities is making sure the Salonettes enjoy the high commission rates, regular training, and financial stability that are not easy to come by in the freelance beauty therapist industry. If you’re waiting for the catch, it’s not coming—treatments use modern and luxurious products (Vita Liberata spray tans, vegan, nontoxic nail-care products), and many of the services are undeniably more relaxing in your own home (hiya, Brazilian waxing).

More than a gym, Blok is a full fitness complex in Shoreditch, a few steps from Liverpool Street station. There are thirty-two different types of classes spanning yoga, Pilates, boxing, barre, and Blok’s own custom classes. The place is beautiful in a stark, modern way—the studios are all glass, brushed concrete, and textural woods with corridors illuminated by soft lights. The café is an ideal post- or pre-workout spot to fuel up with coffee, protein shakes, and plant-based bites that arrive in the prettiest sculptural wooden bowls. Blok’s store, meanwhile, is filled with natural beauty products and workout gear.

A new discovery for us, Agua Spa is located under the hypermodern Sea Containers hotel (formerly the Mondrian) and designed by Tom Dixon. It’s the antithesis of a normal spa. There are no hard corners, only undulating surfaces that curve into corridors and communal spaces, and the color scheme is white, grey, and silver. The whole vibe is more akin to a spaceship or a futuristic cocoon than the usual wood/cotton/natural-light mix. The manicures and pedicures are both indulgent and blessedly efficient, but of all the treatments, the Soveral Signature Facial is one we come back to again and again. If you’re into lymphatic massage, aromatherapy, and nontoxic beauty, you won’t be disappointed. We also found ourselves in the womblike relaxation area sipping herbal tea and reading newspapers (thoughtfully left by each bed) long after our appointment ended.

This studio was founded by superfacialist Vaishaly Patel, and the skin-care treatments are incredible. The signature facial combines Patel’s famous techniques (deep cleansing, extraction, microdermabrasion, and high-frequency treatment) to create a custom plan to improve your skin on the day of your appointment. All facials include a craniosacral massage to treat tense areas at the scalp, brows, and jaw—heaven.

Andrea Pfeffer’s passion for glowing, balanced skin led her to create this beautiful, intimate studio with a menu of novel, high-tech facials. The salon started a bit of a craze for collagen-supporting copper microneedling, but what really sets it apart is that no matter how cutting-edge the treatment or how hard-core the extractions, needling, or vitamin infusion, there's an exquisitely relaxing facial massage built in to your session.

Danish skin-care brand Själ incorporates gemstones and high-quality minerals into its formulations, which are said to vibrate at high frequencies that cause cellular regeneration. When those properties are put into action in the form of chief facialist Henrik Gaardsal's facials, you're in for a treat. He uses rose quartz and amethyst wands for a head-to-toe gemstone massage that relaxes the body and stimulates lymphatic drainage, followed by the most soothing facial around. Some call it a bioregenerative treatment; others call it heaven. Book in advance, as London is just one of Gaardsdal's many international stops.

After a long, dehydrating flight or an intense week at work or really any other time, come to think of it, there are few things we love more than a massage at Agua Spa in the Sea Containers hotel (formerly the Mondrian). Skin specialist Alexandra Soveral’s Signature Treatment is manna to your visage. A deep clean is followed by an intense lymphatic-drainage massage. Hot and cold stones are dipped in fragrant oils and rolled over the face, taking care of puffiness and smoothing out fatigue lines. Soveral’s organic, nontoxic products are made from botanicals grown on her family farm in Portugal—and they smell heavenly. Pick up a jar of Angel Balm, a miracle in a jar that you can cleanse with or smear on as a hydrating mask while up in the air or overnight in bed.

Xochi Balfour is quickly becoming the face of millennial healing in London, working with clients in their twenties and thirties who need coping strategies for stress and burnout. Xochi meets with clients at her home for one to two sessions and uses a range of techniques customized to individual needs. Through anything from guided chakra meditation and sound healing to nutritional and skincare advice, she helps her clients develop their own personal toolkit for wellness and sets them on their way.

Andrea Hurst, aka the foot guru, is a specialist in reflexology. She's been practicing reflexology for thirty years and has been based in Mayfair for the past seventeen years. Hurst also practices at UME Diagnostics in Harley Street, does home visits, and travels extensively. Her treatments help reset and restore body, mind, and spirit, and a session with her provides a framework for optimizing your well-being.

Keah Lan has quite a following for her at-home Pilates, yoga, and reflexology sessions, so much so that she's trained an entire staff in her methods to help satisfy demand. She's an exacting teacher and when it comes to reflexology; a session goes far beyond deep relaxation. Integrating her background in Qi Gong and traditional Chinese medicine, she can also identify vitamin deficiencies and posture problems, help with insomnia, and more—though she's probably best known for her pre- and post-natal reflexology and yoga sessions. Bring your kids, she works wonders on them, too.

Will Williams and Jess Cook took a two and a half year hiatus and traveled to India (and then the world) to learn everything they could about Vedic Meditation, only to return to London to bring it to the masses. Learning the technique takes place over three consecutive sessions: they'll give you a personal mantra in the first session, followed by two sessions of meditation training after that. Then, you're ready to practice on your own and reap the benefits—better sleep, less anxiety, focus, the works—or join their popular group sessions in Victoria (no lotus position required).

The trek out to Barnet to see reflexologist Chantal Freegard (she makes North London home visits upon request) is a worthwhile exercise for anyone dealing with stress, insomnia, back problems, and infertility. Some say the energy changes in a room the minute she walks in. Part of her success comes from her long-standing practice in reflexology, and part comes from her foray into crystal healing. At the end of each session, she incorporates sound therapy using vibrating crystals from her personal collection, which she chooses intuitively for each client.

It's rarely a health issue that takes people to Diane MacLelllan, though her lessons in Alexander Technique can certainly help in that department, especially when it comes to back and neck pain. In addition to teaching better posture, she’s an expert in body language, presentation skills, and Neuro-Linguistic Programming, which means you can visit her for the suite. The idea is that if we train ourselves to better our language and posture, we’ll train (or program) our brains to feel better, too.

You might go to Giulia for hay fever and be surprised by the totally non-related questions she asks—about your character, habits, how you sleep—but that's because she's looking for root causes rather than simply treating symptoms. After your first consultation, you'll receive her homeopathic remedy in the mail, which she hand blends herself. The number of sessions depends on the complexity of the issue—a hay fever remedy may just take one visit, while skin disorders, hormonal issues, back aches, arthritis, etc., will take a few. Whatever it may be, she's effective, and incredibly affordable, so it won't break the bank.

Using a mix of yoga, herbal remedies, bodywork, and nutritional therapy, Sunita helps clients through everything from back pain to skin conditions and hormonal issues. It's no wonder she's well-versed in a variety of modalities, as she grew up helping out at her family business, Maitri, a natural food store and holistic health center in South London. Nowadays, she's the clinical director there, where in addition to practicing a variety of holistic therapies, she mixes her own custom herbal remedies for clients.

Trained in yoga, neuroscience, psychotherapy, and medical physiology, Heather is about as expert a yoga therapist as you can find. In fact, she founded The Minded Institute in London, which uses Mason's scientific research in neuroscience to teach yoga practitioners, doctors, nurses, therapist, clinicians, etc., how to integrate yoga therapy into their practice. When she's not steeped in research and running workshops for the Minded Institute, Heather does take on private clients and can help with anything from anxiety and mental health issues to back pain and chronic disease. She recommends a minimum of six sessions, which include a general consultation followed by weekly visits which involve a mix of yoga, mindfulness and general lifestyle management according to each client’s needs. Her practice focuses on providing some immediate relief to a variety of ailments, but is also aimed at creating what she calls neurological resilience, meaning that patients learn strategies to manage their ailments on their own, while re-training their brain at the same time.

Astrology is one of those enthralling specialties that we can never quite figure out for ourselves, which is why we have the London-based Nymph of Neptune on speed dial. With several years of experience interpreting client’s birth charts behind her, this astrologist is an expert at illuminating the significance of planetary positions—specifically Mars, Venus, Mercury, and the moon—at the time and date of our births, and what that might mean for us personally and professionally. An hour or two with Nymph of Neptune is truly enlightening. What’s more, sessions can be conducted in English, Italian, or French, the choice—and the path—is yours.

Gabriela Peacock took an interest in nutrition as a model and now helps clients achieve their model ambitions through nutrition. Beyond prescribing eating plans, Peacock places a strong emphasis on testing for intolerance and hormonal imbalance, to find the root causes of many issues. It helps that's she's based at the Grace in Belgravia, with just about every lab and specialist available at her fingertips.

It's a trek all the way to Harrow to see Raj Bhachu at his practice, Sai Nutrition, but there are converts, including cookbook authors and spiralizing advocates Melissa and Jasmine Hemsley, who are willing to make the trip. Bhachu practices integrative medicine, meaning that he tests for parasites, heavy-metal toxicity, and everything else conventional MDs might not immediately (or ever) jump to. So if you have a health issue that you can't get to the bottom of, a trip to the outskirts of London may be in the cards.

Founded over fifteen years ago by nutritionists Ian Marber and Vicki Edgson, the Food Doctor is to this day an excellent first port of call when it comes to nutrition. All of the practitioners here provide solid nutritional advice, whether you're looking to shed a few pounds or cope with illnesses such as diabetes. You'll leave your first appointment armed with easy-to-follow worksheets, charts, and suggestions for meal plans.

Amelia Freer is a strictly science-based nutritional therapist with a huge demand in London, not to mention two bestselling books under her belt. She's a steadfast researcher, and she won't tout a superfood or a strategy until it's proven to work, which is probably why she has a long list of devotees. There's also the fact she's a great cook, and she won't just reteach you how to eat but will recommend doable and delicious recipes (see our story with her, here) that won't make you feel like you're missing out. Though she's not currently taking clients, her two books—Eat. Nourish. Glow. and Cook. Nourish. Glow.—are a great start and offer her sensible, user-friendly approach to nutrition. Photo: Candida Boddington

Trained as a traditional obstetrician, Dr. Gowri became frustrated with conventional birth methods and has developed her own technique called "The Gentle Birth Method" which incorporates traditional Ayurveda among other modalities. She insists the entire process needn't be as painful and fraught with stress as it has become for many women. Her method is all-encompassing: Through a mix of private consultations and group sessions she helps women with infertility issues to become pregnant, and assists pregnant women through the process into birth and care-giving.

Quite possibly the most qualified professional in acupuncture we've ever come across, Dr. Tran is trained in both eastern and western medicine, Qigong and even bone-setting. What this means is that he's an incredibly thorough, no-nonsense doctor who can treat a huge variety of ailments from neck and back pain to digestive issues, muscle spasms, and more.

While Dr. Vara can treat just about any musculoskeletal injury, it's his abilities when it comes to pain management—everything from treating back pain to recurring headaches—that make him so popular. He's also great with (and qualified to treat) children. With two clinics in Sussex, he's a busy guy, but he does make it to his London clinic every Monday.

Fabi Waisbort's West End practice is a go-to for the London theatre crowd. Using a mix of osteopathy, acupuncture, and massage, Fabi and his team will cure just about any pain or ailment whether you're performing or not.

One goop staffer visited this tiny but mighty, absolutely perfect general store every weekend while she lived in London. Shelves, baskets, and crates are stocked with produce: heirloom tomatoes from Italy, mangoes from India, lettuces, herbs, and dairy from the English countryside. Everything has been thoughtfully chosen by Merlin and Genevieve, the owners, and every last heirloom tomato and wedge of English Cheddar is the highest quality money can buy. Despite the size of the store—it’s teeny—all the pantry essentials, like pasta, flour, spices, bread, and eggs, are here, as well as an incredible selection of cheese, farm-fresh eggs, good wine, and pastries. The General Store hosts regular wine tastings, and the line is out the door most days.

New Yorkers make the pilgrimage across the George Washington bridge into the New Jersey Palisades for this 24-hour spa, and with good reason: With several floors offering a variety of spa and sauna options, from men- and women-only whirlpools, to a traditional Korean Hwangtoh (yellow mud) Room, to an infrared sauna accommodating several people at a time, it’s the mother of all spa complexes. The Korean noodle bar and over-the-top kitschy decor—fake palms included—are the icing on the cake.

This mini-chain of mega spas offers something called Sauna Valley: You’ll find every conceivable temple—gold, Himalayan Salt, infrared, far infrared, color therapy—and an equal number of pools to match. The Texas outpost is open twenty-four hours a day, while the Queens location is open from 6 a.m. to midnight, making this a fun pilgrimage (and a good girls-day activity). There’s an on-site cafeteria and even a kiddie pool.

Dr. Ilan Bohm is our man and the founder of OIM, which advocates looking beyond—while still using—Western medicine for well-being. Keeping in mind that every patient is unique and not one-treatment-fits-all, Dr. Bohm sees patients on an individual level and aims to prevent rather than just treat illness by incorporating acupuncture, nutritional therapy, and chiropractic into any healthcare routine. They facilitate detoxes, and also offer hydrocolonic therapy.

Dr. Richard Ash, who tragically passed away in 2015, has set up an enduring integrative medicine center in New York City, where you'll be shepherded through an extensive series of tests. After they'll create a totally customized, preventative, and restorative roadmap to optimum health. While it's not necessarily about detoxing, their steps to a healthier lifestyle often involve just that.

As its name implies, Gravity East Village specializes in gravity-based colonics, which means that the in-flow and out-flow of water is simultaneous. Gravity also has a far infrared sauna, which is a nice complement for a full detox.

While hydrotherapy colonics are the specialty here, SanaVita also offers lymphatic massage, acupuncture, and Reiki. They even have an on-staff astrologer.

Beyond the extensive list of yoga classes offered by husband and wife Stephan Kolbert and Ingrid Marcroft and their team, UWS Yoga offers meditation classes and sessions in their infrared sauna. You have to pre-book, so try and snag an appointment right before or after a yoga or meditation session for an extra detox boost.

Founder Tracy Piper brings more than twenty years of experience in Chinese herbology and colon hydrotherapy, which she believes can aid in everything from digestion to skin health in her one-stop cleansing center. For those in need of a recharge, there's also dry-skin brushing, a lymphatic draining detox wrap, and infrared sauna sessions.

WeWork—the round-the-world network of comfy, breezy (decidedly un-corporate) workspaces rented out to people and businesses—has always been an ideal HQ with its meditation rooms, retreats, and fitness class offerings. And now with Rise by We, its new holistic wellness club in NYC's financial district (more locations to roll out down the line), the brand’s dreamed up a respite from the swivel chair where you can get up and move in any number of workout classes (from kickboxing to yoga to personal training sessions), as well as stoke some serious relaxation vibes at their Superspa. There are steam and sauna rooms, amazing massages, a circulation-rousing cold water plunge, and a communal—and coed—hammam area. The spa’s café makes killer juices—and come evening, healthy-ish cocktails. And if you can’t commit to a full-on membership, Rise’s $100 four-class access pass option is a solid option.

Perhaps the chicest yoga studio in NYC, Sky Ting was designed in part by Courtney Applebaum—who collaborated with Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen on The Row's Melrose Place store—and has an airy, effortlessly cool aesthetic. The foundation of their signature Sky Ting class is pulled from Vinyasa, Katonah, Iyengar, Kundalini, and Hatha yoga traditions—but each instructor brings their own perspective, so no two sessions feel the same. They also offer specialty classes including infrared-heated and candlelit sessions. The studio also has an on-site spa, featuring two infrared saunas, a cold plunge, and a relaxing lounge with three day beds.

Whether you need to recover from a tough workout or detox after an especially indulgent weekend, there are a variety of high-tech treatments to try alone or build into a package. Try combining a CVAC session, where you sit inside a hyperbaric chamber while the barometric pressure is adjusted to reportedly support circulation and detoxification, with a nap using the NuCalm device, which claims to be a miraculously restorative 30-minute snooze. Finish with a session inside the Sunlighten mPulse Sauna, where you can customize the ratio of near, mid, and far infrared rays.

The duplex spa is enormous and luxurious, with high ceilings, plush couches, and a posh aesthetic that manages to be both modern and comfortable. There’s a hair salon, nail studio, and fourteen treatment rooms where you can get a variety of skin-perfecting therapies like the Fix-It-All facial, an over-the-top combination of micro-current, microdermabrasion, LED therapy, and more to lift, tighten, and smooth. A facial with founder/skin-whisperer Danuta Mieloch is transformative—her touch is exquisite, and you emerge looking beyond glowy.

There are tons of treatment options at this wellness hideout inside the penthouse on a particularly hectic block of Midtown. From a targeted acupuncture and cupping session with founder Joel Granik to a float inside a sensory deprivation tank (that's thought to mimic the body’s experience in the womb) to Reiki healing and yoga classes taught in a gorgeous white room with a glass ceiling, everything here aims to balance and restore the body’s chi. There’s an infrared sauna and a salt cave; the walls of the latter are made from hundreds of pounds of Himalayan salt bricks, which infuse the air with negative ions while you relax on a massage bed.

This urban sweat lodge has three locations in the city and one in East Hampton, all with the spa’s signature infrared sauna wraps. After putting on the provided uniform—a light cotton top and pants—you’ll be snugly bundled inside an infrared blanket (the material it’s made of feels similar to the bib you wear for x-rays at the dentist) and left to watch Netflix while you seriously sweat. The far infrared waves gently warm the body, increasing the core temperature. You emerge from the cocoon 55 minutes later completely drenched. If that isn’t enough, schedule a consecutive lymphatic drainage session, where you’re wrapped in a full body suit that applies targeted pressure to points on the arms, legs, and waist to encourage circulation and detoxification.

This spa inside the swank 11 Howard hotel has somehow managed to make sweating in an infrared sauna sexy. You get an entire hotel room to yourself, with a spacious personal sauna kitted out with music and even chromatherapy (everybody looks better in a red-tinted light) that combines near-, mid-, and far-infrared waves to heat the body from the inside out, resulting in a major detoxification sweat. The rooms have private bathrooms, so you can rinse off in the shower and start (or end) the day feeling utterly renewed.

The space is an eco-haven, designed with renewable, sustainable flourishes (the walls are made of cork, seagrass, and recycled wood)—and the facials are healing, pampering, and just: beyond. The Custom Superfood Facial floods skin with nutrients from tamarind, acai, turmeric, and manuka honey, while the Light “Isun” facial features a miracle trifecta of microcurrent, LED light, and nurturing essential oil blend that thoroughly revives skin. The infrared saunas are each tucked into a cozy private room with a shower—and they aren’t hooked up to Bluetooth, which means the promise of a genuine digital detox, too.

Infrared saunas are an incredible way to get a great sweat. At Breedlove Beauty Lab, each sauna is customizable, so you are in complete control of your experience. We love sweating it out in the Sunlighten 3-in-1 mPulse infrared saunas, and Breedlove has three of these. There is also chromotherapy—or light therapy—which draws on the hypothesis that color affects how we feel. Before you leave, check out the bright and airy apothecary—it stocks plenty of aromatherapy, beauty, and wellness products.

For thirty-odd years, this Santa Monica institution has been focused almost singularly on colon hydrotherapy (to the extent that they train and certify practitioners). There is also an on-site infrared sauna.

The first thing you'll notice when you walk into this sauna studio is how spotless it is. Impeccable, in fact. That can be said of the décor, as well: A streamlined, all-white aesthetic reigns—up until you enter one of the sauna suites. Here, you can choose to cast a colored light based on your mood (we chose orange for its mood-elevating, stimulating, feel-good effect) during your sweat. Then you sit back and do just that—sweat—for forty-five minutes. Each suite comes with an iPod and a vitamin C–infused rain shower. Given the potential benefits of using an infrared sauna, there are plenty of reasons to come here. But what keeps us hooked is simple: We always leave feeling calmer, clearer, and just all-around better. (An added perk: HotBox just started carrying goopglow.)

You can book infrared sauna sessions at this Mar Vista studio in either thirty-minute or one-hour increments–we like the full hour, so you can take advantage of the in-room shower. The private-room lighting can be adjusted to pitch black, and the saunas themselves are high-tech enough to connect to a playlist on your phone via Bluetooth. Also cool: The main event here are the “float pods," which are personal sensory deprivation tanks you can book for an hour at a time. There’s a small parking lot in the back, plus really easy street parking at night.

Deenie Leon Robbins's locale is a well-kept secret among members of LA's serious cleansing scene. A drive out to Tarzana proves worthwhile for a session in her high-tech infrared dome—it looks like an MRI scanner—which fans somtimes complement with a colonic or lymphatic massage. Those wanting to take it to the next level might consider her twenty-one-day cleanse in combination with a series of treatments.

This spot is famous for its custom-made infrared saunas. In the personal pods, which look super futuristic, you lie on a bed of jade stones while your body is bathed in red infrared light. Your head is outside of the pod during the entire the forty-minute session, and the surrounding air is diffused with a custom blend of aromatherapeutic oils. The lymphatic compression massage and unique Magnesphere machine, which aims to improve your balance and sleep by way of deep relaxation, are so very worth exploring.

This spa is fairly no-frills, yet totally transportive once you walk through its Santa Monica doors. There’s amazing Reiki, traditional Thai massage, and they have a small infrared sauna you can use before or after your treatment. Everyone who works here is kind and accommodating: They’ll offer you tea, dates, or apple wedges if you want to stay and relax for a bit before heading out.

Surya Spa is no joke—in fact, it's one of only a handful of Panchakarma spots in the States (now, up and running at the beautiful Proper Hotel in Santa Monica). That said, it takes a pretty intense level of commitment that's a bit out of reach unless you have the vacation time and budget: It requires three to four hours a day, for three, five, or seven days (we recommend the full week, though it's tough, as you have to abide by the very ascetic menu that they prescribe). The house-made organic food and authentic Panchakarma treatments reach far beyond what you'll find in a traditional wellness spa (people come here for help with parasites, for instance). The results—which can range from better skin to weight loss—speak for themselves. Beyond being a wonderful detox resource, mothers, babies, and mothers-to-be are in for a treat with Surya Spa's special approach to pregnancy and babies' first six weeks.

With full-on wood paneling throughout most of the space, this Hollywood spot has a hip sweat-lodge vibe. You can book the infrared saunas here solo, or with a friend (at a slightly cheaper rate). They also have hot (infrared) yoga classes—at varying levels of intensity.

Tikkun is the next level when it comes to Korean spas, combining high-tech far-infrared heat with traditional Korean sauna therapies. So if you want to lie down in a Himalayan-salt-brick-tiled sauna or sit in a Hwangto clay room, you get the added benefit of far-infrared heat. And in addition to the sauna rooms, there's a long menu of massages and kick-ass body scrubs to complement the sauna time. We're burying the lede though, because the real golden ticket here is the Mugworth V-Steam: You sit on what is essentially a mini throne, and a combination of infrared and mugwort steam treats you to an energetic release. If you're in LA, you just might have to try it...

Veda's approach centers around the ancient healing modalities of Ayurveda and Panchakarma in space that evokes a modern and organic aesthetic. Appointments start with an in-depth consultation for Veda’s experienced practitioners to assess what treatment will best serve you. We loved experiencing Shirodhara—streams of warm oil pour onto the portion of the forehead known as the “third eye”, which is said to help stimulate an overall sense of calm. Conveniently there are post-treatment showers in the back, but, we like to keep the oil on for an added nourishing dose of calming aromatherapy.

It’s hot and dark, and it can get crowded—but honestly, because of the candlelight-only policy, plus the booming soundtrack of Drake and Cardi B, you can neither hear or see other yogis. It sounds a bit corny, but we’re saying it anyway: It’s incredibly fun. Between the beats and the wildly encouraging teachers, an hour flies by. Prepare for a serious sweat—the infrared heating system gets the room between 80 and 90 degrees—and stretch. Mats and towels are available for rent at the desk, the lockers are the combination kind (so you don’t need a lock), and there are showers (as well as deodorant, face wipes, and hair ties to freshen up) on the premises. Y7 now has a location in Silver Lake, too, as well as the original outposts throughout New York.

Fans of traditional Korean spas—kids included—tend to feel right at home here, with its clean, meditative "Jimjilbang" communal room, it's spacious, super hot saunas, and its no-nonsense massages and body scrubs. Head to the sauna, get a massage, and your nails done, too.

While you're pretty much guaranteed a solid facial at any of the Four Seasons, it's the Organic Pharmacy treatments at the Park Lane outpost that leave skin incredibly soft and glowing. Packed with anti-aging rose and diamonds, the products shine in particular during the signature Rose Diamond Anti-Age and Lifting facial, which starts with deep exfoliation from diamond powder and an enzyme peel and ends with an intensely lifting massage.

Hands-down one of our favorite places to stay in London, the Connaught in Mayfair manages to strike a balance between charming and yet totally modern. The hotel's 5,000-square-foot spa (the only Aman Spa of its kind outside of the resort group), is just as incredible as you'd imagine swathed in floor-to-ceiling marble. At just five treatment rooms strong, there's a welcome intimacy here—all treatments start with an herbal infusion to help you unwind and then treatments take from Chinese, Indian, and Thai influences. (Each of the treatment rooms has its own private steam room.) During the week, the spa hosts a 20-minute lunch meditation at 1 p.m. that's free and open to the public.

The Corinthia in Covent Garden is one of those places that generally lives up to all the hype. As soon as you enter the space you immediately understand why: the interiors are dark, it's covered in Italian marble, and the vibe is moody but polished. The ESPA is one of the city's largest with twenty-nine treatment rooms and even a stainless steel swimming pool. Along with a robust roster of treatments—signature facials and massages—there's also a selection of customized treatments that focus on detox, sleep, and pregnancy. The best part? Their day spa offerings include access to everything from the gym and thermal floor to the sauna and steam rooms and relaxation areas.

Recently partnered with the renowned Lanserhof group—which runs exclusive medical retreats in Austria and Germany—expect a completely revamped experience from this longtime-favorite spa. They’ve brought in medical specialists, holistic practitioners, physiotherapists, nutritionists, and fitness experts. Just an hour outside London, it’s ideal for anyone looking for an intense holistic reset, or for those looking to get a glimpse of the state-of-the art Lanserhof methods. Their treatments range from traditional therapies—massages, facials, acupuncture and physiotherapy—to scrubs, floats, and hydrotherapy. We love the stress-busting “Detoxifying Envelopment” treatment.

We couldn’t be happier with this new addition to the KX brand, which combines a bare-bones, super-social gym with detoxifying wellness experiences. Down the street from the membership-only KX Life, KXU has pay-as-you-go group classes, including cycling, barre, and yoga. With the workout, you can add on fantastic infrared sauna or cryotherapy sessions, which can help with muscle soreness. We love the modern, darkly lit, neon-everywhere aesthetic, too.

Allyu (pronounced eye-you) is the Quechua word for community, and this Riverwalk-neighborhood spa's commitment to community spreads far beyond its clients. Sustainability manifests itself in nontoxic beauty products, cabinets made from reclaimed barn wood, and locally made soaps for sale. Besides a range of more traditional services, the incredible facials incorporate healing grape stem cells, rose-quartz massage, and smoothing enzyme masks, plus an amazing chakra balancing treatment.

This British import, located inside the Soho House in Chicago's buzzy West Loop, offers extraordinarily comfy treatment chairs and farmhouse vibes. It's particularly popular for its indulgent manis and pedis (60 and 75 minutes, respectively): Each of the chairs features its own TV and freshly brewed tea served in a teapot is available upon request. There are only five treatment rooms, but they'll do everything from facials (some with SkinCeuticals products) to body wraps, scrubs, and deep tissue massages.

The Peninsula’s ESPA spa is perched high above the city on the 19th and 20th floors of the hotel, and as can be expected from ESPA, the products and services are top-notch. And, since it’s the Peninsula, you won’t be disappointed by the amenities either—there's a eucalyptus steam room and a relaxation room where you can curl up next to a working fireplace. The facials can absolutely stand alone (ask for Sunny), but if you're splurging, invest in one of the famous half- or full-day spa journeys.

The sleek subterranean spa beneath the the Joule hotel offers both traditional and experimental spa treatments in a relaxing environment. Many of the facials use Tata Harper products; body treatments include Swedish massage, cupping therapy, and Thai table massage; and there are brow treatments from threading to microblading by local brow expert Rula Sharkawi. There’s a steam room with a giant amethyst shining in the corner (thought to encourage tranquility), a sauna, showers, and the Vitality Pool, a body-temperature pool with jets that gently massage the skin. Book a 50-minute or longer service and get a free spin, kickboxing, or yoga class at the neighboring Vital Fitness Studio.

This sprawling spa complex operates out of the Hotel Crescent Court, so a full day is well spent here: They offer private yoga and Pilates classes, a health-centric café, and treatments that range from the basic (manis and pedis) to the intense (hardcore lymphatic-draining treatments). We love that the spa is open to kids, too, with a full menu of kid-friendly treatments (and snacks in the café).

This mini chain of mega spas offer something called Sauna Valley: You'll find every conceivable temple—gold, Himalayan Salt, infrared, far infrared, color therapy—and an equal number of pools to match. The Texas outpost is open twenty-four hours a day, while the Queens location is open from 6 a.m. to midnight, making this a fun pilgrimage (and a good girls activity). There's an on-site cafeteria, and even a kiddie pool.

Lisa Breitenwischer opened her yoga studio in 2012. There, she teaches highly individualized classes and runs a program of personalized holistic treatments and nutritional counseling. Among the treatments available at her intimate studio is a new IR sauna, which is gratifying before or after a yoga class. (It's also relatively affordable here.)

This studio takes its mantra of “yoga for all” very seriously. There are ten types of classes, at all different levels, as well as options for kids and teens. Some of the best: deep stretching, an energizing vinyasa flow set to rock music, and sculpt classes warmed with an infrared sauna. There’s even a class for families to take together, where kids sing “Row Your Boat” while parents hold the boat pose.

B-12 shot happy hours, lymphatic massage, rolfing, structural integration, acupuncture, cupping, dry brushing, craniosacral therapy...the treatment menu at this sprawling San Francisco institution reads like a detox how-to. They also offer a host of other options, including facials, waxing, and peels.

Nestled at the foot of the Golden Gate bridge, Fort Baker is spread out over acres of prime Sausalito real estate, which up until recently has been left at the mercy of the elements. Then in 2008 a hospitality group stepped in and teamed up with the National Park Service to completely restore and preserve the area. The resulting 142-room lodge, healing arts center, and spa, are spread out over a cluster of Colonial buildings that meet and exceed all of LEED's sustainability requirement.

(Note: Revel & Rose is currently closed but reportedly opening back up soon.) We think the concept behind this one-stop-shop for beauty and wellness is genius: If you're booking in for colon hydrotherapy or an infrared heat session, why not get your nails done, too? The salon offers everything from waxes to spray tans to intuitive readings, which make memberships here extremely worthwhile, whether you're beautifying, detoxing, or both.

Michelle Bravo is a certified holistic massage therapist (HMT) and certified aromatherapist (CAT), two skills that she expertly combines in her signature treatments, which are all trademarked to her unique EOS technique. She's celebrated for a lymphatic massage that incorporates aromatherapy. Clients also love that Michelle is a kind, intuitive sounding board and love talking to her during their treatments—for the full experience, you can book her for a lifestyle coaching session.

The Tata Harper Spa in San Francisco (the only spa of its kind) is tucked into the back of Credo, a clean beauty shop in Pacific Heights. They offer a variety of treatments using Harper's signature products, including hydration therapy, and even back facials, and in true Tata style, you'll snuggle up under a vintage quilt that's reminiscent of her Vermont farm. There's just one tiny room in the back of the shop, so book ahead, though they will take walk-ins.

The great thing about Psoas is that founders Jennifer Lighthouse and Scott Schwartz bring so many different types of massage under the same roof; they offer everything from neurokinetic therapy to orthopedic massage. They're particularly great for sports massage (Jennifer is a former gymnast and diver) and pre-and post-natal bodywork.

Juliana does acupuncture, cupping, herbal work, and fantastic massage. She's also well known for her excellent bedside manner; she's kind, warm, and a pleasure to be around, which makes the entire experience all the more pleasant.

This minimalist, Korean-style communal bathhouse has two separate spa areas, one for men and one for women. Bathing suits are optional but you'll likely find that most guests opt not to wear them. For an affordable price, you can get a four-hour pass to Imperial's hot jacuzzi, dry and steam saunas, and cold plunge. Their wet spa body treatments focus on various purification scrubs, wraps, and oil massages, while their dry spa fixates on acupressure-focused massages. One great thing about Imperial is the spa stays open late (until 10 p.m., with the saunas shutting down at 9:45 p.m.), so you can head there after the office on days that warrant it.

TMI actually makes getting a colonic not so rough. (For more on the nuts and bolts of colonics, see this colonics Q&A with Dr. Alejandro Junger, and check in with your doctor to see if they're right for you.) In addition to colonic sessions, which is obviously what TMI is known for, they also offer infrared sauna sessions.

An all-inclusive hot yoga studio, Ritual gives you everything you need when you step through the door: mat, towel, yogitoes, water (as well as shampoo, razor, toothbrush, etc.). Ritual classes are choreographed to some pretty rad music—from 90's soul to hip-hop and pop remixes. And each session (50 minutes long) is run by two teachers—one leading the group, and then another providing one-on-one, hands-on adjustments and support throughout the session. Every week, a new "peak posture" move is introduced, so regular students continue to build up their yoga practices. What's even better: Sessions at Ritual end with a neck massage.

All the treatments at Roha are based on ancient Ayurveda practices to help restore energy, detoxify, release stress, and enhance wellness. The downtown San Francisco spot is all about full mind-body rejuvenation, with personalized protocols that include dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, and oil therapy treatments. If you’re not looking to make any lifestyle changes, the nourishing, warm-body-oil massage will leave you immediately relaxed and recharged.

The breathtaking Art Deco stained glass panels, gilded details, and winding wrought-iron staircase at this canal-side sauna were rescued from Au Bon Marché in Paris before it underwent a top-to-bottom renovation—the resulting space is a hybrid of immaculate Dutch craftsmanship and Parisian refinement. In addition to the various baths and relaxation rooms there are infrared saunas, a solarium, and the option to book a private massage. Fair warning: The unisex saunas and baths follow a strict no-swimsuits-allowed policy (towels are okay).

The design at Löyly (which is Finnish for the steam that comes off hot rocks at a sauna) is distinctly Scandinavian, with beautiful hardwood floors and minimalist wooden lounge chairs set around the communal space. The facials, though, are decidedly unminimalist: There are nourishing masks; steamy, aromatic compresses to calm skin; layer upon layer of oils, creams, and hydrosols; detoxifying facial steams; and more. There’s a second location in Northeast Portland.

The Faena Hotel's Tierra Santa is a burst of color: A rainbow-striped rug runs through the spa’s lobby, which is outfitted with bright Juan Gatti artwork and floral-printed poufs. Inspired by an array of South American (and some South Asian) healing traditions, Tierra Santa has a gorgeous Turkish-style hammam and offers a full wet spa experience (waterfall shower, herbal steam room, wet scrub, sauna, and ice parlor); many of the treatments include ritualistic wellness aspects. The Hammam Rose Ritual is one highlight: During the treatment, as you lie on top of a warm marble slab, a therapist will scrub your entire body for what is likely to be the most thorough exfoliation of your life. Following this, you’ll be covered in ridiculously soft foam and then a soothing clay and later treated to a massage. The Tree of Life Vibrations treatment takes place on a heated sand bed and incorporates handmade Himalayan singing bowls into another supremely relaxing massage. Other massage options are more conventional, as are the facials—the Triple Lift Advanced Facial concludes with the Remodeling Face Machine from French brand Biologique Recherche. The Hyper-Customized Facial uses Naturopathica, one our favorite clean, nontoxic brands, and begins with facial steaming and gentle extractions, followed by lymphatic drainage, a congestion-soothing calendula mask, and a glycolic peel. The glow you leave with is...unreal. Led by two doctors, Tierra Santa also has a holistic, preventive medicine program that includes digestion-focused health therapies.

The only 100 percent organic spa in Boston (on pretty Newbury Street, no less), Balans specializes in plant-based treatments. This is a full-service outfit with an adjacent wellness center for nutrition, meditation, and exercise needs. The facials are customized entirely to your skin and accompanied by a complimentary nutrition and health consultation (if you like). Aside from the aesthetic treatments, Balans has a flotation tank to help fully relax the mind, the idea being to remove any kind of stimulant—unless you want to listen to music or a guided meditation. This water is Dead Sea–level salty by way of Epsom salts, to permeate the skin with essential minerals, so floating isn’t something you need to think about—it just happens. The massages can be boosted with body brushing, too.

This super authentic Ayurvedic spa and retreat in the Blue Ridge Mountains is both rustic and luxe. Everything here, from the cooking classes to the yoga sessions, aligns with Ayurvedic principles. The beyond amazing, recently renovated spa has tons of different treatments, but we like the Signature Facial. All of the nourishing products are made on the premises and work to bring harmony to your doshas. Bonus: You can add on a warm-oil scalp massage to any treatment.

This spa's holistic energy approach combines traditional Japanese and Egyptian treatments with a little bit of Southern hospitality. The menu isn't so expansive that you'd lose valuable time picking a treatment, but if you need a real quickie, the thirty-minute massage is a revelation. (And it's the only place in Houston offering yoni steams, at least that we know of.) The seaweed wrap for dry, flaky skin cocoons the body in a layer of kombu, aloe, and green tea for some light exfoliation. And the Off-the-Menu facial customizes products to your skin type.

This onsen in the Shinjuku area of Tokyo sources its pristine waters daily from Naikazu in the Izu Peninsula. Pure soaking pools aside, there's an infrared sauna, as well as bedrock baths. The latter involve lying on beds made of rock salt, said to release energizing negative ions. The massages here are completely worth it, rigorous in a hurt-so-good kind of way.

Whether you’re lounging on the heated marble steps of the enormous, coed Turkish-style hammam, sipping fresh-pressed green juice while the ocean glitters before you, doing serious yoga or Pilates, or all three plus an astrology reading and a pedicure, a few hours here truly takes you out of the everyday. Located inside the Standard, the spa's sleekly modern ashram meets sybaritic retreat has everything. Within the hammam, there are shiny metal tubs for individual pretreatment baths; beyond that, there's a Roman-style waterfall hot tub, a mud lounge, a Finnish sauna, an infinity pool, and an arctic plunge. There’s every sort of massage and facial, plus goopier options, like crystal-infused masks, biopuncture, and workshops on hypnocoaching, sound healing, crystal healing, and more. The food couldn’t be healthier or more delicious, and the on-an-island setting is about as gorgeous as it gets. Photos: Adrian Gaut.

This gorgeous villa in the picturesque spa town of Baden-Baden has only fifteen suites and is the ultimate place to detox in private. The nine-day program starts with a medical examination, followed by a custom regimen of ninety-one treatments created by Dr. Harry Konig that range from bracing lymphatic massages and fitness classes to relaxing mud baths and meditations. If you’re interested in a less-immersive path, you can stay in town and instead purchase a day pass for spa treatments and, if you prefer, simply lounging on the perfectly manicured lawns.