One of Asia's leading spa operators, Mandara Spa, has been chosen to operate the spa at Kuala Lumpur's Prince Hotel & Residence, when it opens in the early part of 2003.

The 400 square metre spa will be situated near the rooftop pool area on the tenth floor of the hotel, offering spectacular views of the city from many of the treatment rooms.

Designed by Singapore-based MGI Interior Design Pte Ltd, the facility will be a resort-style city spa, with Japanese design influences. These include rich timbers with spot-lit water features and suspended outdoor water gardens. The spa will comprise two double grand suites, two double villa rooms and four single rooms, along with separate male and female relaxation areas, a reception and waiting lounge, a steam room and treatment rooms featuring oversized bath tubs and steam showers.

The Prince Hotel and Residence opened in July 2002 and is the latest 5-star hotel to open in the central business district of KL.

Mandara Spa, which is owned 60% by Steiner Leisure Ltd and 40% by Shisheido Co. of Japan, operates 38 spas in Asia. The US based division, Mandara Spa LLC, operates spas in the Caribbean, Guam, Hawaii, French Polynesia, Las Vegas and onboard luxury cruise ships. Steiner Leisure is the largest developer and operator of spas in the world.