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Aequis An Inclusive Retreat
Categories: Beauty and Spas Day Spas Beauty and Spas Massage Day Spas, Massage [Edit]
422 NW 13th AvePortland, OR 97209
Neighborhood: Pearl District
(503) 223-7847
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 10 am - 9 pm
Sun 10 am - 8 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Accepts Insurance:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
Tanya B. said: "This place is freaking gorgeous and totally solid on yoga and massage practitioners. That being said it is also pretty spendy. As someone with a lot of exposure to wellness centers and practitioners, I would say the quality of the…" read more »
35 reviews for Aequis An Inclusive Retreat
35 reviews in English
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Review from Jack M.
Lake Oswego, OR
12/27/2011
Walking in you have a feeling of "Whoa." And coming out you still have that feeling of "Whoa."
This place is literally spa luxury. Aequis is what a spa really is. The prices are steep but HELLO!!!! This is 2011 and it's a spa! Welcome to the real world!
Got a couple's massage and very glad I did. This place has the best staff and they are all top-notch.
Coming out all my knots were released, had improved circulation, relaxed muscles, and no stress whatsoever. But coming out was horrible because I had to remember this isn't Bora Bora, Hawaii, or any sort of paradise. -
Review from Jenifer R.
Clackamas, OR
12/7/2011 1 Check-in Here
I've loved Aequis since my first visit in their original (odd) space... which was actually awesome - I loved the "What's the password" feel. This space is very different. Still nice, just different! My massage was fantastic (in the interest of full disclosure - I won a Twitter contest for it), Isaac was great. I'm not picky when it comes to the gender of my LMT, but he didn't make me feel uncomfortable in the slightest. The whole barefoot thing with the employees was interesting, but not necessarily off-putting.
Twos thing I would change would be: that there's no aromatherapy. I understand why they cannot, but personally, I would rather my neighboring office smell of nice, calming oils than printer toner, but that is just me! Also, putting showers back in would be good! -
Review from Nichole C.
Portland, OR
10/16/2011
My Husband and I visited Aequis after I purchased a Groupon for the Couples Retreat. Initially I was disappointed to find out it would be nearly two months until they could get us in for an appointment and even then the best they could do was a Monday night at 6pm. We had such an amazing experiance the delayed appointment was totally overshadowed by the ambiance of their location, the kind staff, great wine and Anna & Ashley's massages for us. We eagerly scheduled follow up visits for the end of November as both MT's stayed late to find an appointment where we could be seen together and with them. The room where our massages took place was warm, dimly lit and smelled like lovely essential oils...we we beckoned to return by the soft glow of light!
The only thing I wish they had was the ability to shower after treatments. The last time I visited Aequis was a couple of locations ago and I missed the lovely rock shower after my warm oil scalp treatment.
It happened to be the 1 month anniversary of our September wedding when we had our appointment and we couldn't think of a better place to have spent it! -
Review from Betsy S.
Portland, OR
8/29/2011
I bought the Groupon deal of $75 for $150 worth of service. This doesn't work like a $150 gift certificate though - if you want to apply this Groupon to a special, they charge you full price for the service. I was perplexed by this, thinking that my Groupon would be the equivalent of $150 cash, but whatever. Doesn't work that way.
I requested the special "Sensual Aromatherapy Massage" for $130. I was really looking forward to the aromatherapy aspect of the massage - I am a very smell-oriented person and the thought of being "drenched in exotic aromas" was very appealing to me.
When I walked in to Aequis, the smell of the facility was that of hmm... fresh paint? Varnish? Musty something or other... It wasn't a nice smell at all. Very strong chemical/stale smell. But I figured the massage itself would be hitting my olfactory senses better. Unfortunately, the products used had no smell at all. The massage itself was very good. But not what I had expected.
I called today to ask about the lack of aromatherapy during my massage and was told that there was a complaint by the neighbor about the smells, so they have had to stop all aromatherapy. But no one told me! I should have been told when I called to make the appt, or when I came in, but I was not told at all. The girl I talked to seemed to think that a "Sensual Aromatherapy Massage" was ok without the aromatherapy, but I did not agree.
I will not be back. -
Review from Tamsen G.
7/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
Aequis...oh Aequis. My review is conflicted. This one is based on my last two visits.
I love you for your non-typical approach to spa services. If I wanted to get a spa treatment by a 19 year old in a lab coat and have the whole place bright white and smelling like bleach, I would go to a hotel spa. No, I want a relaxing experience and so I have been coming to you for about ten years, through three location changes.
When I first started coming to Aequis, I tried out a few different massages. Each starts out with a foot wash and selecting aromatic oils for your treatment. I started coming back again and again for the self-renewal facial, which used to be a wonderful facial, a full body massage, and the hair brushing and scented hot oil scalp treatment. This was followed by a little relax time and then having the Aequis shower room to yourself to rinse off the scented oils and reluctantly get back into street clothes and leave the sanctuary. My masseuse of choice was Melanie, who left several years ago. :( :( :(
After the most recent move, I've been there twice. The first time, last spring, I was unaware that there would be no shower available after the treatment. Considering that you are covered in aromatic oils and have to put your street clothes back on, I was not knocked out. Actually, I was pretty frustrated as I had planned on running errands after the appointment and had to go home to shower first (the scalp massage is heaven but leaves your hair full of aromatic oils).
I just went to the spa on Saturday, after having to wait six weeks to get a Saturday spot. I was very excited to come in - I've had a long year and really needed a treat. I was greeted by my masseuse Katelyn (sp?), who was lovely and sweet and friendly.
What didn't happen on this visit was the full body massage that has always been included in the self-renewal facial - I did get a back massage, which was nice, but my hip has been really sore and was looking forward to some lower back work. Also did not get any selection of aromatic oils for my treatment so the experience just wasn't the same. I wonder if this has also been removed from the package...there is also still no shower available.
Considering how expensive this treatment package is, I think I will probably start looking around at some of the other spas. Katelyn did a very nice job - I think things have just changed a little too much for my liking. -
Review from Deanna N.
7/30/2011
I went here on a Groupon and did both a facial and massage.
The good things:
1. Very zen in decor and well timed so you are the only one or feel like it when you are there
2. Enjoyed very much the hot oil of the massage, pressure was perfect and I definitely zenned out
The meh:
1. Cost - I have had facials better for half the price in PDX. In fact, massage was twice the price I pay at other spas in PDX I adore.
2. Pearl is noisy and massage room was right on street - more light and sound than I prefer.
I would treat myself to a massage there on a special occasion or special. But not so sure its an economical choice for this town with other spa options and lots of coupons and groupons to explore. -
Review from J M.
Portland, OR
6/11/2011
Using a Groupon, I booked a signature facial here. The staff was pleasant and easy going, my facial was excellent, one of the best I've received in Portland. I love how the staff whispers and walks around barefoot, it really helps set the mood for relaxation.
My only complaint would be that the entry space being right off the street makes it hard to relax until you are brought back into the dark area where the footbaths take place. The door is opening and closing and people tend to come in talking loudly or on their phones.
That being said, they do an amazing job both on the footbath and the facials so I will be back. if you re-book at the time of check out, they offer 10% off your next service which is a nice touch. -
Review from Christian A.
Portland, OR
4/13/2011
As someone with a stressful job, I get messages periodically. New to Portland, have tried several but have yet to be blown away. Aequis was good but not great. They started with a foot massage, which was really good. Onto the regular massage, just ok. I like it when a therapist uses their hands, but to often just got elbow and forearm rubs here. I know massage is hard on the hands, but that is the best part. I certainly don't want to cause someone pain, but a massage without the use of hands is just not going to bring me back for more. On top of, that they are among the most expensive in the city, I would expect more.
The ambiance of the place is really cool. Big plus on that one. -
Review from Ken N.
Portland, OR
7/26/2010
This is a spa for women. I think most women will like this place. But if you want a good deep massage that will work out those knots I recommend going somewhere else. I walked away feeling like I needed a massage.
My wife bought me a massage from this place. What I thought was supposed to be 90 massage was more like 45 min of getting getting me ready the a 40 mom massage. Getting me ready was having me smell some oils and a foot bath.
I will say that if the massage would have been stellar I would have given 4 stars. Unfortunately, the massage was a gentle rubbing of my skin. I asked twice if the masseuse could go deeper. When they didn't I gave up.
After the massage was over I scheduled a real massage with a masseuse who works out of the running shop next to Ballys on Yamhill. It was 1/3 the price, a true 90 minutes, and one of the best massages I ever received. I'll write a review on that place later.
But I will say my wife loved this place. But since I didn't this is my honest review. I'll let her give them 4 or 5 stars to off set my 2. -
Review from Xue x.
Salem, OR
3/15/2011
Great place, I love the decoration of the place!!
I got the Medly Stone massage, I walked in to Aequis extremely tense, and I walk away feeling very relaxed. Highly recommend it for anyone who is looking for a good spa. -
Review from Nicholas M.
Brooklyn, NY
6/13/2011
Kayla was great! The spa itself is very warm and inviting -- I walked in and felt "good energy," which is -- in my opinion -- what one wants when beginning a spa experience. The only complaint I have is that my 90 minutes passed by too quickly. This is definitely somewhere I will return to on future visits to Portland.
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Review from Laura N.
3/11/2008 2 photos
I have a Pavlov's Dog type of reaction when someone brings up Aequis.
-my eyes close
-my mind wanders
-my skin tingles
All of which are accompanied by one of those goofy grins that make you question whether or not you really want to know what the person wearing it is thinking.
And unless I'm actually there, I usually get snapped back to reality where it is much colder, the ceilings are much lower, and I'm not actually wearing the most comfortable robe known to man. Thankfully today, I was not dreaming, and my sister and I were able to enjoy the full experience without having to be painfully snapped back into reality.
The space is stunning. Atop the 4th floor of the Telegram building, they occupy the entire "penthouse suite" and truly create a sanctuary of relaxation...which, let's be honest, we could all use a little more of in our lives!
I really appreciate their focus on aroma and natural skin care. Pair those with the thalassotherapy foot soak with every appointment? I'm sold. For me, going to a day spa is all about pampering...skimping is not on my agenda. And while their prices may be ever so slightly higher than your average day spa, the experience is exponentially higher. For a true mind and body retreat, this is definitely the place to go in Portland.Listed in: Pamper Me, Please?
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Review from Kate B.
Portland, OR
4/18/2008
I agree with Lorrie E. , the best part about Aequis is the ambiance. It really is a relaxing vibe and I loved the bonus foot treatment.
The thing is, the facial was mediocre. I really didn't feel like the aesthetician was very knowledgeable or very skilled. Sure, it was relaxing but put on mood lighting and throw in some some aromatherapy and I'll bliss out immediately, without anyone rubbing my face.
As part of the standard facial they also do a scalp treatment. That was nice but it leaves your hair really oily so they point you in the direction of a shower afterwards. So after getting my skin treated with all kinds of special stuff, they then put me in the shower to wash it all off? That would be ok if they gave you more of the facial products to use afterwards, but they don't. Not even a bottle of Oil of Olay. So you wash all that fancy stuff off and then leave with parched skin. Great plan folks.
Another thing, the receptionist/greeter was super snotty. For the love of god, we're in Portland not NYC. I didn't expect a hug but cheese and rice lady! That imperious tone and holier than thou look could melt ice. Nice way to welcome a paying customer.
This experience was a gift from someone and I doubt I'll go back on my own dime. I like Rejuvenation Day Spa much better. Though not as slick, they have a pretty relaxing atmosphere, are less expensive and the staff seems like they know more. And they seemed like they wanted me there, unlike the desk jockey at Aequis. -
Review from Sara O.
Portland, OR
7/11/2011
I have been to Aequis Spa twice now and had a good experience both times. It is very quiet and so are the staff which is one thing I look for in a Spa and they don't try to sell you anything either which is a huge plus! I had a massage and a facial that were both enjoyable. Very beautiful, serene space the spa has created. I was able to experience Aequis through a Groupon but unfortunately would not be able to afford this SPA otherwise.
I have been to SPA's throughout Portland and have found Aequis to be one of the top :) -
Review from Chava B.
Portland, OR
Updated - 6/27/2010
I went back to Aequis again to use the rest of my credit they gave me for the previous snafu with them being unreachable during their move (see my previous review).
I had a great experience with a very nice relaxing aromatherapy foot soak. Then a full body massage to follow. Christa, my therapist was very warm and had a positive vibe. She was skilled and the massage was great and got out a lot of kinks in my shoulder area where i hold my tension. Christa gave me some suggestions for how to reduce tension knots in that area.
The only minor complaint I have is that the atmospheric mood music they chose to play in the room during the massage was not super relaxing. It was a tribal chant type of thing and had a man chanting in some ancient language pretty loudly to drumbeats. I would have preferred plain music, ethereal and calming. I should have requested they change it but once I'm down on that table I shut up and enjoy what they're giving out.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/25/2009
OK - I've changed my tune from the last time I reviewed Aequis (see past review below). I got in… Read more »
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Review from Jennifer K.
San Francisco, CA
7/12/2006
My greatest retreat away from home literally. I love this place. I loved it so much more at the old location on NW Hoyt, because of the one HUGE treatment (massage) room, but the new location is also very nice, more chic though. I have flown in from California (where I'm from) while on vacation and have been able to book an appointment for the next day which was awesome!
Staff is very nice & you really do feel like your away for a day. I will ALWAYS do the 2 hour massage and a facial (even though I end up falling asleep during the facial) haha.
LOVE IT!
4 stars because I LOVED the old location with the HUGE room and all those weird artifacts if I remember correctly?? -
Review from Brittany B.
Portland, OR
3/31/2011
A very soothing, quiet, and relaxing atmosphere will be found here. All of the employees walk barefoot in the spa/retreat, and whisper to immediately create a low stress environment. I had an hour long facial that was simply amazing & refreshing.
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Review from Michelle W.
Cornelius, OR
7/14/2009
I have been coming to Aequis for years and find this is my favorite place for a massage. I enjoy the calming tranquility and find that my personal experiences with the masseusse have been top notch. I have massages at many other places, and although good, nothing has compared to the service I have received here.
I have not experienced the same issues I read withthe front desk. Perhaps I have missed a changing of the guards so to speak. I am sure things will level off as this truly is one of the finest places I have found to relax.
How much do I enjoy this place? It tops my list EVERY year as a gift option. ;)
I think you get back what you put out. They have a terrific ambience. Yes, they are a bit pricey, but you get what you pay for.
****Aequis had their Grand Opening at their New Location June 4th***
422 NW 13th Ave. at Glisan St. in the Pearl District
503-223-7847Listed in: Girly Ventures
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Review from Kayt d.
3/23/2009
At Christmas, my husband gave me an Aequis gift certificate to use for pre-natal massages. If it weren't for this, I would likely go elsewhere.
Don't get me wrong: The massages are great. The spa is spacious and clean. It's quiet. And they don't expect tips, which is unexpected for an upscale spa. (I tip anyway, and this completely baffles the receptionist every time.)
But the thing that vexes me is that pre-natal massages have to be booked 4 weeks in advance, and every single appointment I've made has been either postponed or straight out cancelled because, for example, I wasn't able to switch my Tuesday night appointment-- that I'd had on my calendar for three weeks-- to the following Wednesday at noon.
I really wish Aequis would get their scheduling shit together because, otherwise, it's a nice place. -
Review from coral c.
Corvallis, OR
10/10/2008
My husband and I have been working pretty hard this summer. Hundreds of miles on our bicycles and on our feet in the form of hikes, and today all the aches and pains just melted away under the hands of our technicians.
I booked a couples massage for our wedding anniversary today, thanks to the recommendations from yelp. I was a little worried driving up to the place, lots of construction outside (i.e. jackhammers, trucks, etc), but once inside the doors, it is all about peace and quiet.
We had the side by side foot scrubs in the beginning, which is an added bonus to the massage time. And because they do that at the beginning doesn't mean they skimp on your legs/feet in the massage. Everything was absolutely wonderful. My husband wanted extra attention to his legs, and the technician definitely delivered. As for me, the massage was balanced over my whole body, no complaints.
The only thing that was kind of a bummer was the shower at the end...for a place that offers couples massages, and the option to shower together, I was hoping for a double headed shower. We were led to just a basic shower and it left one of us shivering while the other stood under the water. The original one they tried to lead us to was being set up for a treatment...maybe that was the double headed one. who knows? I guess we'll just have to go have another massage to find out! -
Review from Audrey B.
Portland, OR
4/8/2011
I found this spa on groupon and thought it'd be great for me and my hubby to get some much needed relaxation. Made the appointment that day for a couples massage , good thing cause they were already booked two weekends out. The gal on the phone was so sweet and accommodating. The moment I walked in the spa I was relaxed . I adore the ambiance and decor, so beautiful! Our therapists were great, greeted us with smiles and made us feel right at home. The foot soak was sweet bliss the robes are lush and soft and the massage was the best I've had! And I've had MANY. Seriously to die for, good. They do this scalp massage after with oil and a hot towel which leaves your hair a mess (they warned me of this ) but it's worth it! Over all an amazing spa experience and will return as often as I can.
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Review from Sandra B.
Sacramento, CA
7/27/2007
The strongest selling point of this day spa is its excellent setting. The ambiance invokes tranquility. The facial was good, although a little pricey ($130).
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Review from L. P.
Newport Beach, CA
8/1/2007
I visited Aequis in June 2007. I was on vacation and was looking to get a massage and facial. I found Aequis through a search online and also saw some local advertising, so I made an appt. The spa called the day before and asked if they could change my appt. time from 4:45PM to 3:15PM on Saturday. I informed them my appt. was scheduled for 3:30PM and had received a voicemail confirming this time earlier in the day. They apologized and said my time was fine as is, although I might have a short wait. I rescheduled for Sunday morning at 9am.
When I arrived, I was the only client there. I changed and did the garment bag thing. They got me a drink and washed my feet and then I was taken to have my facial. It was really very nice- by far the highlight of the day. The massage came after. It was ok. I have had much better. I guess for the price I expected more. Also, when I checked out they charged me the full price of each service and did not include the discount for multiple services. For the price, I expected better. -
Review from Lorri E.
Portland, OR
1/31/2008
Aequis is all about the ambiance. Wood floors, high ceilings, richly colored curtains, nice couches, quiet... When I truly feel like pampering myself, and I have a couple of hours free to really let go, then I book an appointment at Aeuqis. The setting is fabulous! The foot wash/massage ahead of each appointment is a nice added touch. The services themselves--be it massage or facial, will be adequate (some better than others) but the overall experience of Aequis is what makes it special. They aren't cheap, but when you want to truly feel pampered and really unwind and relax, this is a great choice.
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Review from Dave L.
Portland, OR
2/24/2008
I wanted to surprise the wife with a couple massage, looked at all the regular day spas and settled on Aequis on a whim. WOW what a great surprise!
We were immediately greeted and offered some water while we filled out the standard forms. We were offered a shower and then led to a couch where we were offered tea or water while they began massaging our feet. They offered us different choices of aromatherapy and found the ones that suited us individually. We were then escorted to the couples massage room that was lit with candles.
This was our first massage and I must say it was a great experience that we both still talk about. The staff was stupendous, the massage was great and the closeness we felt while being massaged side by side was an added bonus.
This is definitely a full experience day spa, the massage is just one small portion of the experience. When we left we felt relaxed and refreshed and can't wait to book our next massage. -
Review from Wendy S.
5/12/2010
Aequis is one of my favorite spas in the city. It's warm, relaxing, and offers a multitude of pampering services, from massages to mani/pedis. I treated myself to the Indra Rain Renewal Package recently, and spent a day in beauty heaven. It included a mud wrap, foot soak, full-body exfoliation, steam treatment, hot stone massage, and an amazing facial. We're talking 5 hours of pure, decadent relaxation. It's not cheap, but the services, staff and environment make Aequis one of the best spas in town.
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Review from Michele L.
Portland, OR
7/12/2008
I have been to spas all over Portland, and Aequis is the best! The ambiance, showers, etc. are all great and really add to the experience (those alone would make it worth the added cost per treatment). But what really keeps me going back is the staff and their general attitude... they never bug you for a tip, and I always seem to pick up some information along the way (I even started doing yoga again because of some stretches my technician showed me!) I've had nice spa services at other places, but that is all they were. At Aequis I always feel like I got more than I paid for.
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Review from Sarah W.
Portland, OR
2/2/2009
A few months ago, I learned that Aequis has started holding theme nights every Friday, during which they stay open late and perform all their regular services, but while playing different genres of music instead of the normal ambient spa music. One of these theme nights was to be "Gen-X Night," featuring music by The Cure, Depeche Mode, Mazzy Star, etc. I made reservations for myself and a friend two months in advance, assuming this was going to be a popular night. My friend drove down from Seattle, we checked into the Ace for the weekend, and after dinner, we happily strolled over to Aequis, only to find that they were not even open! She and I drowned our sorrows in vodka and scotch, respectively, and took in a movie instead.
The next morning, we went up to Aequis and explained our situation. The woman at the desk was mortified and very apologetic. They didn't have any record of our reservations, and they didn't have any other reservations for that night either, and so had decided to close early. To make it up to us, she got us in for complimentary 1-hour massages that evening. When we returned later for our appointment, we were told that we were the only people in the spa, and so they turned off the music that was playing, and put on The Cure instead! The entire experience was wonderful. Before our massages, we slipped into luxuriously soft robes and sank into a fluffy couch for hot tea and a foot soak. Then we closed our eyes to choose the aromatherapy that would be used in each of our massages. Then we ascended to the "tower suite", which is actually an old clock tower, for our massages. I was so relaxed I thought I might fall asleep. Post-massage, we refreshed ourselves in very nice showers with lovely scented Aveda shampoo and shower gel. We both agree that we have seldom felt so pampered, and we are looking forward to returning, possibly for another theme night if those continue. -
Review from Susan P.
Fairview, OR
2/1/2011
I just had a massage at Aequis last weekend. It was a great experience. It was refreshing to meet their staff. They are real and honest people. Krista was my therapists. She listened to my needs and is seriously amazing at what she does. I went straight from my massage to the front desk to book yet another for next month. Thanks Aequis!
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Review from Clare M.
Portland, OR
2/8/2009
With all of the good reviews, I wanted to try this place out. My review is unfortunately not on the spa services as I did not get one, but is focused on the front desk staff. I was in the hood, so I just stopped in, hoping to make an appointment. I was the only one in the absolutely stunning lobby. I asked about services or possibly a menu to look though and was told that they didn't have any printed but I could find one online. I let her know that I was interested in booking an appointment and was told that I should look at the menu and then call when I knew what I wanted. Not the answer that I was looking for. She acted like I was taking up her precious time by asking questions (was even texting on her phone at one point) and because of it I never booked an appointment. I may be missing out, I don't doubt it by all of the amazing reviews, but at the same time (if you see my other spa reviews), I feel like the experience starts and ends at the front desk, and I just can't deal with pretentious-ness in the town of Portland that I love. They got two stars because the place smelled like heaven and looked like plush velvet that I wanted to roll around in.
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Review from Razzle Y.
Oakland, CA
2/19/2007
Love this place! Took a few minutes of wandering around the street to realize it was in the Mark Spencer, but from the minute my friend and I walked in we were pleasantly surprised. The waiting/relaxation room is HUGE, and yet feels completely intimate. The decor is very Indian-esque with lots of pillows and deep reds and music. I was supposed to have a female massuese, but for whatever reason we both ended up with males. This usually skeeves me out and keeps me from being relaxed. But both our guys were fabulous. (It helped a lot that I thought mine was hot- seriously where else could I get a cute tattooed boy to rub warm stones and oil all over me? Not any spa I've been to yet). The showers were awesome, I didn't want to leave. The massage itself was great, we went to lunch afterwards and I wanted to nap I was so relaxed. Mostly I want to go back for another one today. The only strange-ish thing, was that for a space this large, there were no lockers. But you put all your stuff in a garment bag in the changing area and it finds its way back to you in the shower. The foot soak/massage at the start of the journey is amazingly relaxing and fun. Ladies, go there and do not fear the male massueses.
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Review from Windy S.
10/3/2009
I have been going to Aequis since their first original location in the Pearl when you had to go up some rickety stairs in what seemed like a pretty run down building. But what they made of the location was great! The layout was unique and the ambiance was great. Then they moved to the Telegraph building, which was actually a nicer location and they still impressed me with the layout and ambiance. Now with yet another move back to the Pearl, my husband and I were extremely disappointed. This space is significantly smaller than both of their previous locations and they did away with a shower! One of our favorite parts of the massage was the shower together afterwards! After you're covered in oil from your massage (including oil in your hair) there is no way to plan to do anything downtown afterwards unless you don't mind looking like you bathed in baby oil!!! During our couples massage we could hear the business next door dumping their glass in a recycle bin over and over again! Awful noise pollution for the location. To top it all off, we had a gift certificate we got from a friend for Xmas knowing we liked Aequis and they would not take it because we got in on a Special they had for celebrating their new location! Isn't a gift certificate supposed to be as good as cash!? We have a $260 gift certificate and I don't even know if I want to use it now!!! The overall feel of the new spread gets a big Two Thumbs down! Now I have to find a new favorite Spa for our couples massages!
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Review from Aimee F.
Portland, OR
11/3/2009
I was given a 90 minute massage gift certificate at Aequis and had a really lovely experience. The gift was to help me take care of myself after the death of my father, and it was probably one of the best experiences at a spa I've had in a very long time. I am not the princess type but with the decor and the music and the calm, it's exactly what I needed to feel taken care of during a difficult time in my life. I was first given time to change into a soft robe and sit quietly before the massage therapist came out and washed my feet. I was nearly mentally fetal by that point , and then was brought up to the tower room (he said it's where they usually do couple massages) and had a really great massage. This style was more on the fusion side, using a variety of techniques, so I was not completely half comatose like I usually am, but still very much appreciated the experience. It is on the spendy side but after spending equivalent amounts at places much less peaceful, I'll put Aequis near the top of my list. The service by the rest of the staff was also fantastic, and I loved having the shower afterwards. Note: after reading the reviews, I was surprised to learn that tips were not expected (wish I'd have known...?). I love hearing that as the worst thing is to give someone a gift certificate and then they still have to shell out $20-30 for a tip. I'll be back...
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Review from A B.
Portland, OR
2/16/2010
This is the best spa in Portland, hands down! Great massages with aromatherapy! The best part is the ambiance. They know how to treat their customers! And last time I went they gave me a cash discount!
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Review from Sheila J.
Portland, OR
1/1/2009
My husband and I celebrated a special occasion at Aequis Spa. The ambiance is wonderful and the colors are relaxing and rich. We spent 5 hours there and a complete package. I thought overall it was good and the service was excellent but I did not get a distinct difference in our experience compared to other great spas ( like Rejuvenation or Willamina) and the prices at Aequis are much higher. The tower room is overrated...really all it is is a dark room...I understand there is a view but the curtains are all drawn and dark during your massage so one really cant tell. Overall adequate but nothing special with the exception of the ambiance.
