She continues, “Even if Europa International Salon & Spa in the prestigious Eton-Chagrin Boulevard in Woodmere truly lives up to its designations as “award-winning” and “international.” Owners Tanya Sigal, who imigrated to the States from the Ukraine, and Mumtaz Gungor, who emigrated from Turkey, attribute their success to their comprehensive knowledge of European aesthetics and alternative skincare, their gift for discovering the best styles and services and their respect and commitment to the well being of their clients.

   Frankly, I think that their European hospitality contributes significantly to Europa's success. They offer the steam and sauna treatments with any service free of charge. They also offer the steam and sauna to anyone who walks in the door. For example, Europa will happily order lunch for you from one of the many restaurants in the area (at a discount, nonetheless), and allow you to eat it at the spa, and then take a steam afterwards for no charge!

  Tanya also teaches classes and gives her clients advice on how to use home remedies to take care of their skin. “I learned these home remedies from my grandma because in Europe we didn't have the products on the shelves,” she explained. She suggested using avocadoes in a facial because they increase the elasticity of the skin and pump vitamin C into it, which keeps the skin looking young.

  But let me tell you about the spa itself. Modern and inviting, Europa combines hair salon and spa with an exceptionally friendly and upbeat staff. Their services offer head-to-toe pampering. In addition to hair treatments, the salon services include manicures, pedicures, body waxing and cellulite treatments. The impressive menu of facials includes their signature Organic Eminence Facial and the therapeutic Microdermabrasion with Oxygen Plasma Facial. The extensive list of massages includes Relaxation, Deep Tissue and Hot Stone Massage, in addition to half-hour and hour Reflexology Foot Treatments.

   Europa also offers unique Bliss Package treatments, including ones called Balance, Rejuvenate and Revitalize. The Revitalize treatment begins with a Deep Cleansing Facial and your choice of one-hour massages. Next is the invigorating mineral-rich Thalasso Seaweed and Mud Therapy, signature treatment at the spas of Odessa, a port city in south central Ukraine. This package concludes with a pampering manicure and pedicure, blow-dry and make-up application.

   The Romance Bliss Package enticed my husband and me. The treatment began with some quality time together in the luxurious Specialized Whirlpool Bath. Our stresses were bubbled away by the effervescing water as we sipped on glasses of wine. Emerging relaxed and warm, we then received a half-hour massage of our choosing, either relaxation or therapeutic. The massages were truly divine. Massage therapist Viktor Gitarts gave us each a deep tissue massage. It soothed my aching muscles, and transported me into an ethereal state of relaxation.

   We then retired to the traditional steam room, which fostered our sanguine state while removing toxins from our bodies. The attendant gave us an exfoliating scrub to apply on each other at the end of our steam.

  We descended into an even deeper state of relaxation and luxury during our side-by-side pedicures. The knowledgeable professionals did an exceptional job. Plus, they finished the treatment with amazing foot massages.

   Next, massage therapist Kacy Hinojosa gave me a cucumber melon (several appealing choices were available) exfoliating scrub body treatment. The scrub contained salt as well as added minerals and extracts from Hungary. The salt gently exfoliated and smoothed my skin while the minerals and extracts added moisture and vitality. This powerful treatment helps to draw out impurities, remove excess dead skin cells and improve circulation. I loved the invigorating feeling of having my entire body massaged and scrubbed as her strong and nurturing hands worked my muscles. After the scrub, she applied a moisturizer containing minerals from the Dead Sea in Israel. “It is another treatment in itself,” noted Kacy, “and it is very good for the skin.”

   The final treat was an all-natural mineral makeup application from Luba Vaynshtok, who is a true artist. Luba explained, “This makeup provides good coverage. You cannot see the build-up, and it slowly moisturizes and nourishes the skin.” Her skills, her passion and the results of my makeover were immensely impressive. I would highly recommend her for a wedding or any special occasion.

    The generosity, passion and commitment to personal attention at Europa International Salon & Spa far surpass what I have witnessed at other spas. For a unique experience with a distinctive European flavor, visit Europa International Salon & Spa. I highly recommend the “Romance Bliss Package,” especially as we head towards Valentine's Day. Their prices are competitive with other spas in the area, and their personalized attention is worth the trip.

Europa International Salon & Spa is located in Eton Chagrin Boulevard, 28699 Chagrin Boulevard in Woodmere. They can be reached by calling (216) 292-6969.

Photos by Bob Perkoski and Europa Spa.