With all that life throws at you, sometimes a visit to the spa is much needed. During a recent trip to Montreal, Bota Bota, invited me to try their water circuit therapy. Bota Bota is your destination for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation in Montreal’s Old Port. The spa also offers full services such as massage therapy, body treatments, facial treatments as well as manicures and pedicures.
Bota Bota has created a very relaxing environment on what used to be an old ferryboat. The boat has an interesting history as it used to sail within the province of Quebec and was also a showboat for some time. The boat was transformed into a full service spa in 2010 and that is when Bota Bota came to life.
The floating spa offers an enchanting ambiance that is ideal for disconnecting from the world and focusing on self care. Bota Bota consists of five decks which are home to the relaxation areas, three whirlpools, two eucalyptus steam baths, four cold showers and baths, a restaurant, as well as terraces and a garden. Each space on board is luxurious and you will fall in love with the breathtaking views. Even the saunas have your choice of a beautiful lake or city view. The design details of the relaxation areas are well thought out and delightfully coordinated.
The water circuit at Bota Bota consist of three steps; Heat, Cold, and Relaxation. The benefits of the circuit include the following:
- Assists in the elimination of toxins
- Helps restore skin elasticity and tone
- Stimulates the cardiac system
- Improves circulation
- Reinforces the immune system by promoting white blood cell production
- Releases stress and tension
I will take you through the three steps. The first step is heat; you spend ten to fifteen minutes in the sauna. The heat helps with the opening of your pores and elimination of toxins and impurities. This step also helps keep blood pressure low and relives muscular pains and aches. The heat creates a state of ‘artificial fever’’ and leads to increased production of white blood cells and antibodies.
The next step is the ‘cold ‘ step; fifteen to thirty seconds of total immersion into cold water (including your head). The spa offers various options such as cold baths, showers, or river access. I immersed myself into the cold river for this step. The cold water immersion after the heat accelerates your heart rate which then helps with strengthening your heartbeat and improving blood fluidity. This step also closes your pores so that impurities don’t enter your pores.
The last step is ‘relaxation’; fifteen to thirty minutes of rest in the designated relaxation areas. After your body has gone through the hot and cold shock, now is the time to close your eyes and enjoy the sensory journey.
It is recommended to repeat the three steps three or four times for optimal results. I was pressed on time so I was only able to go through the circuit once. Over all, my experience at Bota Bota was very soothing and I found the staff to be very friendly and accommodating. This floating spa is very special so if you’re in need of some time to unwind and disconnect, this would be the best place to do so. I would suggest that you go earlier in the day or during the weekday to avoid crowds as this spa is a very popular spot amongst locals.
Disclaimer: My visit was sponsored by Bota Bota but all opinions are my own. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or medical condition. The material on this website is provided for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your physician before beginning any therapy program.
