I love beauty salons and spas. I've been to salons all over the world and if I can squeeze in a visit when I'm away, I will. I'm always struck by the different approaches in different countries. In Ireland we tend to favour an Asian-type model in our spas and salons. I've been to beautiful spas in Bali – unforgettable experiences. Authentic Balinese spas are often open to the air, with only a roof and dividing walls between rooms. If you go in the evening, bats may fly overhead or tiny frogs leap in from streams outside. It is magical.
In some Spanish salons I’ve visited, the experience couldn’t be more different. Air-con blasts and pop music blares.
We are very lucky to have fantastic spas and salons in Ireland, on a par with the best you can find anywhere in the world.
We would love to hear from you about your favourite salon.
Who does the best nails, gives the best waxes, or tans you to perfection? Who do you think does the best facials or gives the perfect pedicure or brow shape?
The nominations are coming in thick and fast for this year’s Best Shops in Ireland competition, and lots of readers are voting for their favourite local salon. But what of the big names in the industry? Who, in your opinion, merits a mention, and why? We want to hear all about what it is that you like about the treatment and the service. These comments are taken into consideration by the judges when they sit down to select the shortlist.
- Cast your vote at irishtimes.com/bestshops and let us know which salon you think deserves the accolade of best salon in Ireland
