FROM THE EARLY DAYS OF THE eMPIRE, Romans reveled in the pleasures of spas and beauty treatments. The tradition continues…

Wellness Zone at Hotel de Russie

The perfect stop for my Italy arrival day is this glamorous spa, an oasis done up in creamy white, orchids, and candles scenting rooms with an enticing spicy aroma. It’s downstairs from the chic Hotel de Russie, located between the Spanish Steps and Piazza Popolo, and backed by the Borghese Gardens. The expert staff of warm, welcoming signoras customizes jet-lag treatments—mine included an ayurvedic massage, dip in the hydropool, and Turkish bath. They also offer a Roman Foot Ritual, (soothing for after sightseeing), as well as a full range of body treatments, facials, and hair styling.

Relax afterwards in the hotel’s Secret Garden, a popular afternoon tea and aperitivo spot for Romans. And don’t miss the lobby’s Farella boutique, which carries a luxurious line of lighter than air cashmere and silk scarves, handmade by four artisan sisters from Capri.

Hotel de Russie, Via del Babuino 9, 06 32 88 8820, open daily 7-10 (www.hotelderussie.it)

Spazio Beauty, Via dei Chiavari 37, 06 686 9800

A simple “Beauty Place” off the Campo dei Fiori, where you can get massages, body scrubs, facials, and waxing for reasonable prices.

Contesta Rock Hair, Via degli Zingari 9, 06 478 23717, closed Sunday and Monday (www.contestarockhair.com)

In the Monti neighborhood, near the Colosseum, this modern shop is not just for rock and rollers as the name might imply. It’s a great place to get a chic, reasonably priced cut and then stop next door at their boutique to buy some hip clothes to match.