anita A.
Google
I’m writing to share feedback about our recent visit to the Sisley Spa, because the experience unfortunately didn’t live up to the standard we’ve come to expect from a Sisley-branded spa.
We’ve visited before, and that wonderful experience was a big reason we chose to return to the Fairmont. When I booked, I explained that my parents would each have services with a break in between so we could switch off and enjoy the day together, and so they could spend time getting to know the Sisley brand and relaxing in the private salon—the “wow” factor that made me want to return.
When I arrived, the attendant seemed noticeably unfriendly, almost as if I were bothering her. I understand working on Thanksgiving isn’t ideal, but in a service environment, that kind of energy really sets the tone. Even a simple “Welcome to the Sisley Spa—happy Thanksgiving! I’m with a client, but I’ll assist you shortly. Can I offer you champagne while you wait?” would have made a world of difference.
Instead, when I asked for champagne and water, she told me the water was “down at the spa.” Later, when my husband joined us and asked for coffee, I asked for another glass of champagne. It had been a hectic stay due to issues with our room’s AC and heater, so I was really looking forward to relaxing. She paused and replied, “I can offer you three glasses,” in a very short tone. I said that was fine, but the interaction felt unnecessarily cold and unwelcoming.
I also asked whether my parents were out of their treatments and how they enjoyed the salon. She said she didn’t know, so I went to look for them myself. They hadn’t been shown around or offered any of the Sisley Spa exclusive experience items either. She mentioned they arrived “really early” and that she was the only one working. I understand being short-staffed, but when guests are booked for multiple services with breaks in between, I would expect some level of attentiveness and for them to receive the full experience.
During my facial, the esthetician’s hands smelled strongly of garlic—even through her gloves. When I asked, she mentioned she had been chopping garlic earlier. It was distracting and definitely not something I expected during a facial.
When we checked out, the attendant offered a 20% “discount,” but it only applied to my services—not my parents’, who were the main reason I raised concerns. And mind you, the 20% she applied is essentially the automatic gratuity, so in reality there wasn’t any meaningful discount offered for the issues we experienced. Her responses also didn’t feel empathetic; they sounded more like scripted lines than genuine acknowledgment.
Overall, this visit was far from what we’ve experienced before, and unfortunately, we won’t be returning. I truly hope other guests don’t encounter the same issues.