Raffles Hotels & Resorts chooses The Organic Pharmacy for its spa opening in Istanbul, and beyond

(June 2014, Singapore)  Raffles Hotels & Resorts has chosen the Organic Pharmacy for the next chapter of its spa story. The journey will begin when Raffles Istanbul opens in September this year: one of the key features of the hotel will be the signature Raffles Spa, set to be one of the most comprehensive luxury spas in Istanbul.

Andrew Gibson, VP Spa & Wellness for FRHI Hotels & Resorts has chosen The Organic Pharmacy as a product supplier for the spa.  Raffles Istanbul (pictured above) is the first hotel in the portfolio to use The Organic Pharmacy.  Other locations for Raffles Spas using The Organic Pharmacy products and treatments will be announced subject to review at each hotel or resort.

Andrew Gibson explains: “The Organic Pharmacy takes great care about the production methods and sourcing of materials for their products.  They remain exclusive and will not be found in too many locations – just like Raffles.  Raffles Spas are managed by Raffles, but The Organic Pharmacy is really aligned with the Raffles philosophy.”

The Organic Pharmacy specialises in creating health and beauty products based on organic, natural cosmeceuticals, medicinal plant extracts and high tech natural molecules. Results driven and luxurious, the products and treatments are designed to awaken the senses giving the guest an exceptional experience throughout their treatment.  Made in London, the quality of the products is ensured from start to finish.

Margo Marrone, Co-founder The Organic Pharmacy, explains: “To me Istanbul is where East meets West perfectly - and Raffles Istanbul is the embodiment of absolute harmony between old-school and modern glamour. I really wanted to create the most beautiful experiences for the client that would create lasting memories of their journey.  It was incredibly wonderful to help design some of the treatments, in particular the exclusive Rose, Sugar and Honey Hammam Experience. Turkey is the home of rose and honey and this treatment epitomises the luxury of this fusion of old and new, bound up an in age-old ritual. We look forward to bringing Organic Pharmacy to Istanbul, and further around the world with Raffles.” 

Asli Sakizli has been appointed as Director of Spa.  Asli has worked with some of the most well-known names in the spa business. She joins from The Istanbul Edition, where she was Director of Spa. The Raffles Spa will be one of the largest in the city at 3,000sqm.  There will be two swimming pools, including one on the roof, with sweeping views over the Bosphorus.  The treatment menu is currently being created.

The Raffles Spa is part of the authentic Raffles touch, alongside the legendary Raffles Butler service, the Long Bar (subtly adapted to each location) and art and literature – all of which will be integral to Raffles Istanbul.  The hotel will be the perfect embodiment of the 'new' face of Istanbul:  cutting-edge, eclectic and energetic.  It sits at the heart of the Zorlu Center, a new hub for fashion, food and the arts on the European shore in Beşiktaş - overlooking the Bosphorus, the Princess Islands and the historic peninsula.  This is a next-generation bazaar, where fashion, performance and art converge.

Raffles Istanbul - opens 1st September 2014

A new destination for an exciting and timeless city

Rates from €600 per night for a Raffles Room.www.raffles.com