Southampton Princess Hotel.

As well as a number of European-trained staff many of the products used in the treatments are from France.

In particular Tisserand Aromatherapy and G.M. Collin of Paris are used, and are available for sale. Paul Mitchell products are used in the hair studio.

Essential oils, massage oils, soaps, shampoos and conditioners and bath and shower preparations from Tisserand offer undiluted essences extracted from a variety of herbs, spices, flowers, woods and resins.

They are the official distributors and stockists of G.M.Collin and Tisserand on the Island and will gladly supply their professional and retail aromatherapy products to other salons with qualified aromatherapists.

G.M.Collin clinical skincare line also keeps a woman looking and feeling great with their world-renowned treatments and products.

Owner Victor Ruberry is delighted to stock both products because of the helpful attitude and professionalism of both companies.

Connection with Europe Because of his background in science and health, he found it reassuring that the firms were so honest with their product's performance and marketing.

He said: "I would not sell a product that would not do what it said it did, no matter how good the market was for this, as is the case with many `wonder' creams and lotions of other companies.'' Tisserand especially stressed their unwillingness to rapidly expand their popular range until the products have been fully researched and tested for potency and effectiveness.

"Both companies could not have been any more helpful in explaining the range of products and their purpose, but you would expect that with two of the most established and respected names in their industries.'' he added.

But he also praised manager Yvette Rankmore for using her wealth of experience to guide him in his decisions with these product lines.

Yvette, from Wales, is one of four ladies trained in aromatherapy, aesthetics, reflexology and massage therapy. The others are Jacqueline Washington, Sharon Parton and Paula Mills.

Sharon is also trained in the ancient Chinese art of healing called "Reiki.'' Another aesthetician Sara Simons, who is a massage therapist, specialises in facials. Others are Grace Muloney who is a massage therapist, a specialist in sports and remedial treatment and shiatsu, while Finnish massage therapist Mika Myotri also specialises in shiatsu and holistic healing massage and treatments.

There are three hair stylists Karen Urwin, Tim Dale and Eileen McGirr. Karen is the manager of the newly opened Hair Studio and has returned to Bermuda after spending time in Europe. She specialises in precision cutting, fashion colouring, relaxing and various styling techniques.

Eileen McGirr welcomes new clients to existing local clientele. She specialises in Paul Mitchell hair care, and advises on colouring, perming and precision cutting.

Tim Dale has recently been recruited to the team after winning numerous ladies hairdressing awards in the United Kingdom. Tim specialises in "Long Hair Design'' and bridal styles, and also various cutting and styling techniques.

On the health and fitness side are aerobic instructors Robin Saul and Juanita Lee.

Receptionist Marsha Smith and office manager Laura Monk complete the staff.

Owner Victor was formerly involved in a personal training business with clients including the Athletic Club and the Olympic Club, in Hamilton. He specialised in lifestyle management, persuading people to change to healthier lifestyles.

His long-standing ambition was to get his health facility which he realised when he took over the health club at the Southampton Princess in January 1992.

He said: "Originally I was concentrating on the health and fitness side of things and being in a hotel location my primary aim was to create interesting and unique services for the hotel guests.

"Obviously the connection between health and fitness and the spa amenities led to the buyout of the existing beauty salon with the potential of all the services it can offer.

"What we have been providing is a unique opportunity for our clients to learn about gaining and maintaining a healthier lifestyle through our health education centre of, and complimentary to this facility is the Secret Garden.

The Secret Garden provides services in an environment where they can relax and receive treatments that will make them feel better, look better and feel better about themselves.

"It ties in very nicely with our philosophy of improving the quality of your lifestyle through natural, safe methods.

"Whether you are a guest at the Southampton Princess Hotel or a resident you should experience the complete indulgence of the Secret Garden.''