Stylish SPA InterContinental Offers Waterfront Luxury -- Pampering at the SPA InterContinental Boston An Urban Delight-- The newest addition to Boston’s growing spa "list" is the SPA InterContinental Boston. In the new waterfront hotel on the second floor, the spa boasts 6,000 square feet. Both the spa and hotel boast a contemporary, albeit stark design.

I thought the lobby area was stark and needs more seating and brighter color to spruce it up for a more welcoming first-impression. Inside the spa itself, the SPA offers a full range of spa choices -- from hot stone massage, massage therapy wraps, body care, half-a dozen facial choices, six treatment rooms to a spacious room for couples massage.

Pampering begins in the relaxation lounge, with subdued lighting and quiet music; cushy, deep chairs in an Asian-type décor beckon. Bowls of dried washabi nuts, dried corn, cranberry and washabi pea mix were on the sideboard amd Keli, my facialist, offered me tea and dried fruits. A soothing and welcoming greeting.

Keli Pope, a graduate of the Spa Technical Institute, Plymouth MA, also specializes in runway and bridal makeup. A young woman with an outgoing personality, she describe the methods she would use for my type of skin (greasy in some spots, dry in others.

After taking off my comfy white robe and slippers, I lay down on the heated treatment table. The treatment began with gentle cleansing creams which Keli massaged into my face. Keli used many different face creams during my 50-minute hydrating treatment. I especially enjoyed hot towels on my face instead of the typical steam. After, my face was fresh and glowing. There are five different facial choices on the menu.

“Spa etiquette: want to feel as if you are in a cocoon, with no cares or worries,” said Keli. The room was decorated in a neutral tone with quiet New Age music playing, relaxing beginning.

The SPA Director, Travis Umpleby, is still fine-tuning the spa and plans to add a manicure and pedicure area and more amenities in the lounge and dressing areas -- more magazines and hangers for the lockers. A steam room, heated pool and fitness center complete the SPA. Hotel guests can indulge themselves with treatments in their rooms. SPA InterContinental is at 500 Atlantic Ave., Boston, MA, 617-5090. Www.intercontinentalboston.com/spa.