Bucket List: Boracay & DIY Face Clay Mask

Shangri-La's Boracay Resort & Spa

I'm excited to present the first hotel spa on my bucket list, located on the secluded island of Boracay, Philippines, which is only a short flight away from bustling Hong Kong. My mum's round birthday is coming up and naturally I want to treat her to something special. Once she saw the breathtaking photos of this five star hotel with its white sandy beaches and tree houses with outdoor jacuzzis she was hooked - and so was I. 


Awarded with the Travelers Choice Award for Luxury and Best Service this year on Tripadvisor, Shangri-La's Boracay Resort and Spa is situated between two private beaches on the northern tip of the island. Guests can reach the resort by sea-transfer only and once they step inside this paradise resort, they'll receive VIP treatment for their entire stay, so Tripadvisor comments. Besides all the luxury and pampering, the resort features an eco-centre and a marine sanctuary where they not only educate guests about Boracay's flora, fauna and underwater world, but also actively help to restore it. They even organize a weekly beach clean-up encouraging employees as well as guests to participate.

How about the Spa? 

I was staying at another Shangri-La hotel a few years ago and all I can say is that the spa was just bliss. So, just by looking at the photos and reading the reviews, I'm pretty sure Boracay's spa won't disappoint. In fact, this spectacular sanctuary measures 5,174 sqm and is located on a rocky peninsula overlooking a private bay. Spa Heaven! CHI Spa's signature treatments include the "Balance Massage", "Milk & Honey Wrap" and the "CHI Harmonizing Facial".

Of course, this resort and spa comes with a hefty bill so I better start saving. Meanwhile, let's get inspired by their spa menu to create a fantastic home spa treatment. I'm currently obsessed with medicinal clay, so I'll show you how to blend an easy face clay mask to soothe and balance your skin.

Here's what you'll need (for 1-2 face masks):

•  1-1/2 table spoons of white clay powder (soothing, softening and skin regenerating)
• Rose Hydrosol (balancing, for mature skin) OR cold chamomile tea
• 2 drops of Geranium Essential Oil (for all skin types: balances sebum, great for congested skin)

*When using Essential Oils, please check with your doctor first if you are pregnant or suffer from any illness

I usually mix my own natural face mask before stepping into the shower, using the hot steam for hydration. Try to only make 1-2 applications to keep the face mask fresh (it can be kept in a sealed jar in the fridge overnight).

Start by putting the white clay powder in a bowl and add either Rose Hydrosol or cold chamomile tea. Use a spatula to mix the liquid with the powder until you have a nice paste (neither too dry nor wet). Then add 2 drops of the Geranium essential oil - mix again. Apply the clay mask onto your face and neck; leave on for about 10-15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water.

Enjoy - let me know your feedback after you've tried it!