Key West, Florida, has a special allure and mystique thanks to its remote locale at the end of the Florida Keys, art scene, its gorgeous sunsets, Ernest Hemingway mystique, great fishing and reefs. A newly opened spa promises to support the ecology and magic of Key West with ecology-minded treatments and also contributions to a reef relief fun. It’s a fitting plan, for Jala means "water" in Sanskrit and Jala overlooks the ocean.

Hyatt Key West Resort & Marina & Spa will raise ecology awareness and money in its new Jala Spa, just opened in September 2007, part of the resort’s $10 million redesign. The Jala Spa menu features nature-inspired treatments and all-natural products.
Jala Spa features two treatment rooms and three poolside spa cabanas.

In an exclusive interview for this article, I spoke with Paulette Scarpine, Executive Assistant Manager of Jala Spa. My questions and Ms. Scarpine's answers follow.

What makes Jala Spa unique?

Jala Spa has “partnered” with the Reef Relief Organization (www.reefrelief.org). A $5 donation will be made with each Signature "Jala Blue" treatment. For Jala "boosters" - supplemental perks for full treatments - the spa donates another dollar.

§ A private Jala Suite offers seclusion and privacy both for relaxation and spa treatments.

· Why spend time in a spa when the Key West sea and beach beckon?

§ Restoring physical and emotional balance with a Jala spa treatment is a great way to enhance or kick off your Key West Experience. Jala’s treatments are designed to assist the body in recovering from the attractions of the Keys or preparing the body for the sun and fun of the beach.

· What special treatments, decor, therapists, technique and/or philosophy does the spa boast?

§ SPECIAL TREATMENTS:

o The Signature "Jala Blue" treatment starts with a revitalizing full-body exfoliation with the spa's signature Blue Mojito scrub, followed by a refresh facial (1.5 hours, $195). The scrub features a custom blend of all-natural products formulated exclusively for Jala by Deborah Kelly, the proprietor of Old Orchard Herbs.

o The Keys Essentials Massage is a multi modality experience accentuated by vibrant colored mineral balms. This 90-minute treatment ($185) begins masterful massage techniques based upon the art of Thai to redeem the body's natural balance with the energy of semi precious gemstone extracts. A warm stone arm massage with intensive pressure point massage on the hands and forearms adds luxury to this deluxe treatment.

§ DECOR: Two private treatment rooms are available while three spacious, white-canvas spa cabanas have been added poolside. Earthy textures and tones welcome guests to the spa’s lobby via bamboo flooring, a stone mosaic feature wall, Bernhardt upholstered lounge chairs and a cane drum-table. Private treatment rooms feature customized bamboo veneer and Corian millwork with built-in benches; new multipurpose treatment tables; glass mosaic accent walls in shower and bath areas; and steam shower units. The couples’ treatment room includes a Kohler “Sok” infinity-edge soaking tub. Each room opens onto an individual outdoor relaxation area.

· How many therapists and different types of services do you have?

§ Four experienced therapists on staff

§ Jala Wellness: Based on the distinct energies of Key West, each element of Jala wellness offers its own unique rhythm and method of support. Choose your experience based on your desired results and be inspired by the colorful life of Key West. Treatments are separated into 6 different categories.

o Waves – soothe and relax. Tune in to the tranquil beat of the sea. Treatments include: Refresh facial, Swedish Massage, Sea Restore Wrap, Relax Bath Booster

o Glades – nourish and balance. Restore your ever-youthful energy. Treatments include: Balancing facial, Key Essentials Massage, Luxury Mineral Wrap, Nurture Bath Booster

o Beach – brighten and glow. Prepare body and mind for the beach. Treatments include: Oxygen Facial, Awakening Aromassage, Brighten Up Body Treatment, and Replenish Bath Booster

o Reef – recover and renew. Receive essential hydrating relief. Treatments include: Recovery facial, Vitality Massage, Renew Wrap, Refuel Bath Booster

o Heat – energize and vitalize. Build wellness to fortify the body. Treatments include: Male Elements, Hot Stone Massage, “Man” Grove Scrub, Cuban Coffee Body Glow, Energy Bath Booster

o Deep – detox and target. Release toxins and eliminate tensions. Treatments include: Purifying Facial, Deep Tissue Massage, “Green Flash” Wrap, and Detox Bath Booster

· Any couples treatments available?

§ 60 or 90 minute Couples Massage: Guests can enjoy a massage with their significant other in Jala’s exclusive Couple’s Suite. Two highly trained massage therapists will work simultaneously to distress and calm, leaving both feeling renewed and relaxed, connected to each other and the isles of Key West.

§ 3-hour Dual Tides treatment: The ultimate in couples treatments. Guests start the morning, afternoon, or evening with an intimacy-enhancing blend of herbal tea and enjoy a session of side-by-side treatments that will restore them to their most desirable and desired selves.

§ 60 minute Renew Wrap

§ Dual Scalp Massages

The property will soon be "Green Certified" by the Florida Green Lodging Program (www.FloridaGreenLodging.org). For more information on the Key West Resort and Jala Spa, visit the website www.keywest.hyatt.com.