The Beauty Guide: London, UK

For all the ladies settling into London’s summer vibes, here’s a gem just for you. On my recent jaunt, I had the pleasure of visiting Grace Belgravia (rumored to count Cara Delevigne among its members) – a sanctum reserved for club members, but fear not, they offer summer memberships for those basking in London’s sunshine. Nestled in Belgravia on West Halkin Street, this health and wellness club is like stepping into a dreamland of tranquility and elegance. Sunlight spills in, every detail meticulously curated. But the real magic lies in what they offer. Picture your own slice of nirvana: a spa, a health-conscious cafe, a blow dry bar, a manicure/pedicure haven, and even a health center boasting a GP with royal connections (he splits his time between the palace and Grace Belgravia), alongside other specialists like a psychiatrist and a colonist. Plus, there’s a room dedicated to vitamin infusions.

During my visit, I treated my mom, sister, and myself to massages at the spa. They opted for the signature Grace massages while I indulged in a Deep Tissue session. Let me tell you, it was hands down the best deep tissue massage I’ve ever experienced. The knots and tension melted away like magic, revealing areas of stress I didn’t even know existed. Pro tip: If you go, request Yumiko – she works wonders. With an array of incredible services at Grace Belgravia, here are some highlights:

• The Grace restaurant & Cafe is a haven for healthy eats, whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeaway. They offer meal deliveries, an 8-week weight loss program, and a five-day intensive cleanse.
• The Apothecary Bar & Cafe serves up delights like cashew and blackberry porridge for breakfast, raw pad Thai for lunch, and aromatic duck breast for dinner, followed by decadent desserts like raw cacao and cinnamon cheesecake. Don’t miss their selection of pressed juices and smoothies.
• The Gym boasts top-notch equipment, personal training sessions, and a range of classes from spin and yoga to Pilates and ballet barre. Plus, if you’re dealing with an injury, they’ll coordinate with physiotherapists and sports massage therapists.
• The Medical Centre offers an extensive range of services, including acupuncture, aesthetic medicine, dermatology, nutrition, and much more, depending on the day of the week.
• Wellness programs abound, from signature healing journeys to intensive cleanses and weight loss programs.

And that’s just scratching the surface of what Grace Belgravia has to offer. They also host fascinating events like Breakfast in Christie’s Travel and business talks with industry experts like Amanda Wakeley.

Hair Transformation: Luke Hersheson at Daniel Hersheson

If you’re in the mood for a hair makeover, entrust your locks to none other than Luke Hersheson, the king of chops. When I was in London last June, I decided to bid farewell to my long ombre locks and embrace a chic new look. Luke, son of Daniel Hersheson and a celebrity stylist extraordinaire, works his magic at their flagship locations and blow dry bars all over town. Trust me, a good haircut can work wonders, and Luke’s expertise shines through in every snip. His iconic styles have graced the heads of celebrities like Sienna Miller and Alexa Chung, so I opted for the ever-trendy Lob cut. Paired with a beachy wave blowout by Harriet at the Harvey Nichols branch, it was pure hair bliss.

Blowout Bliss: Duck & Dry

There’s something undeniably delightful about visiting a blow dry bar – they’re charming, efficient, and all about pampering. One of my personal favorites is Duck & Dry, situated on the picturesque King’s Road. The studio exudes luxury and charm, with ample natural light and meticulous attention to detail. Whether you opt for a look from their menu or customize your style with a senior stylist like Amy, the experience is sheer indulgence. They use top-quality products from L’Oreal and Davines, ensuring your locks look and feel fabulous. And let’s not forget their thoughtful touches, like offering gift cards for a truly memorable present.

Hair Nirvana: Moroccan Oil Treatment at Hari’s Salon

As a devoted fan of Moroccan Oil, I couldn’t resist trying their in-salon treatment at Hari’s Salon. With two branches in London, I chose the one on Brompton Road for my hair rejuvenation session. From the moment I stepped in, I felt pampered – coat taken, magazines offered – the works. My stylist, Hayley, guided me through the treatment process, which involved indulgent shampoos, a nourishing mask infused with Moroccan Oil, and a blissful steaming session. The result? Silky soft locks that smelled divine, courtesy of Marvin’s masterful blow-drying skills. Trust me, he’s not just a wizard with hair; he’s a riot too. And here’s a fun fact: the salon welcomes both men and women, so expect a lively mix of clientele.

Fitness Fiesta: Barry’s Bootcamp

Ah, Barry’s Bootcamp – the epitome of fitness fervor. If you haven’t experienced the Barry’s buzz, you’re missing out. With a cult-like following akin to SoulCycle and Flywheel, Barry’s Bootcamp offers a workout like no other. I booked a class at their Euston studio and let me tell you, it’s not for the faint of heart. The studio pulses with energy, the instructor pushes you to your limits, and the workout? Intense doesn’t even begin to cover it. Whether you’re sprinting on the treadmill or pumping iron on the bench, you’ll feel the burn. But trust me, it’s worth it. Plus, amenities like showers, changing rooms, and a smoothie bar make for a complete fitness experience.

TRX Triumph: Core Collective

The rise of boutique fitness studios in London is nothing short of exciting, and Core Collective is a shining example. Tucked away in High Street Kensington, this luxury studio offers a range of classes, including my personal favorite – the resistance class, a blend of TRX and circuit training. Led by the indomitable Anya, the class left me feeling exhilarated and challenged. The studio itself exudes industrial chic, with a cozy cafe on entry and well-appointed facilities downstairs. It’s the perfect blend of style and substance, leaving you with muscles shaking and spirits soaring.

Pilates Paradise: Frame Fitness

For a workout that’s both effective and efficient, look no further than a reformer Pilates class at Frame Fitness. With two studios in London, I opted for the one in Queen’s Park for my session. The class was a revelation – a full-body workout utilizing the reformer machine, pilates box, and handles, all set to a backdrop of uplifting music. While the lack of personal interaction with the instructor was noted, the class itself delivered on its promise of sculpting and strengthening. Plus, the studio’s retail section and refreshment offerings added a touch of convenience to the experience.

Barre Brilliance: Ten Barre

Barre workouts have gained popularity for good reason – they’re challenging, effective, and oh-so-satisfying. Ten Barre, located at the St James studio, offers a unique twist on the traditional barre class, incorporating athletic