Startle

Relatively undiscovered by locals, getting an appointment at Chandler’s luxurious Aji Spa is a breeze with a phone call to the friendly staff. Although the Four-Star spa uses VIP Guest Services for its online booking system, the site is prone to induce headaches. One moment we were signed up for three massages, the next none. After multiple attempts to book online, we resorted to a phone call to the reservations desk. The two-minute phone call was a delight and much simpler than the registration-required website. Save yourself the frustration and call directly. Reservations for groups of 10 or more must be made by phone; call and ask for the Aji Spa group sales manager to make your reservation at Aji Spa.

Located just outside Phoenix, Ariz., the Four-Star Aji Spa doesn’t attract Phoenicians in droves, making it easy to book a day of relaxation at the last minute. The friendly concierge works to accommodate everyone at this luxurious facility, from walk-ins to last-minute phone calls. While it can’t promise getting you in right away, the Native American-inspired spa is a perfect retreat to relax away the day ahead of an appointment. Lounge at the adults-only pool or kick back in an earth-toned, meditative relaxation room while you wait for your soothing treatment at Aji Spa.

While the stunning Aji Spa is mostly undiscovered by locals, weekends fill up quickly at the Four-Star facility, making advance planning a requirement for popular times. For Friday and Saturday appointments, plan to book at least a week in advance; appointments Sunday through Thursday can typically be secured with at least a day’s notice. We booked a week in advance for a Sunday appointment and had the whole day to choose from. Summers can be slow at this luxurious spa, with locals fleeing the heat, but with the cooler temperatures of fall through spring, spots fill up quickly. To avoid disappointment, plan to book at least two weeks in advance for weekend appointments at Aji Spa.

Looking out onto the calming pool, green golf course and mountains in the distance, the waiting area at Chandler, Ariz.’s Four-Star Aji Spa wows, with both co-ed and ladies’ waiting rooms. Dark hardwood floors, earth-toned walls and desert views are the first introduction to Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort’s serene spa. Furnished with plush chairs, a sofa and a chaise lounge, the waiting areas at this luxurious spa are calm and quiet, immediately transporting you out of the city and into a world of relaxation. Native arts, a beehive fireplace and wood-relief ceiling bring the Native American philosophy to life in the co-ed room, while the ladies-only waiting area has intricate native art and cushy chairs. Soothing native flute music plays throughout the spa, helping bring you to a place of greater peace and relaxation at Aji Spa.

Based on the Gila River Indian Community in Chandler, Ariz., luxurious Aji Spa draws from the land’s history and the stories of the local Pima and Maricopa tribes for their healing philosophies. Aji means sanctuary in the Pima language — the word stems from nearby Aji Mountain, a haven for women and children during times of war. The spa recreates the serenity of this sanctuary, using Native American healing techniques along with more traditional spa treatments. Ancient techniques designed and practiced by Pima and Maricopa caregivers - such as the Thoachta healing treatment, which includes a gentle massage and traditional healing techniques — are highlights from the spa’s extensive menu. Respect for the land and the tribe continues in the interior d�cor, architecture and artwork throughout the facility, creating a world-class and one-of-a-kind spa experience.