"Samsara" is a Buddhist term associated with a world of change and the life cycle of birth to death. This continuous cycle of rebirth, including the path to spiritual enlightenment and balancing of life energies, inspired elements of the spa's treatments and design. A full menu of treatments based on Ayurvedic principles, a state-of-the-art fitness center, exclusive spa accommodations and a specialty restaurant are just some of the spa's innovative features.
For those who want to fully immerse themselves in the Samsara Spa ambience, 87 cabins and 12 spa suites aboard the Costa Serena and 55 cabins and 12 suites aboard the Costa Concordia provide an extension of the Samsara experience at all times with direct access to the spa via elevator and stairs. Guests who reserve these accommodations will have access to exclusive privileges including flat screen televisions, a special set of Elemis bath accessories and a "Welcome Ritual," all included in the cruise price. The "Welcome Ritual" features unlimited access to the spa and Thalassotherapy pool, two complimentary fitness classes, a personalized wellness consultation with a spa expert, two treatments, two sun-lamp sessions in the solarium and an invitation to a special spa tea ceremony. In addition, guests who reserve exclusive Samsara Spa accommodations will have access to the wellness cuisine in the Ristorante Samsara. This specialty restaurant features spa-friendly cuisine in private surroundings.
The Samsara Spa features numerous treatments inspired by aromatic herbs, essential oils, exotic plants and Ayurvedic essences. Ayurvedic-inspired treatments include the Shiordara Body Glow, a sea salt exfoliation combined with an essential oil compress; and the Shiorbhyanga Massage, which includes a combined relaxation technique using aromatic frangipani essence and reflexology.
All spa guests will have access to Thalassotherapy baths, a rock sauna (a hotter version of classic saunas) and a Turkish bath (either traditional or scented with gently fragrant rosemary, eucalyptus and lavender). Before all treatments, spa guests may begin their path to rejuvenation in the Tepidarium, a warm thermal bath. Couples who wish to indulge in the spa experience together may do so in one of two special couples' treatment rooms. An expansive fitness center and wide variety of wellness classes complete the spa's facilities.
Costa's newest flagship, the Costa Serena joined the Italian cruise line's fleet in May 2007, while the Costa Concordia, her sister ship, joined the fleet in July 2006. At 114,000 tons with a double occupancy of 3,000, both are the largest cruise ships in Costa's growing fleet and the largest ships ever built for an Italian company. Additional features on the ships include a Grand Prix driving simulator and two pools with retractable magrodomes.
