Nestled in a business center far from the heart of Hanoi, Omamori Spa is more than just a sanctuary for relaxation; it’s a testament to the transformative power of opportunity. Founded by BlindLink, a pioneering social enterprise, Omamori provides vital employment, unwavering support, and comprehensive training for Vietnam’s visually impaired community. This unique model not only delivers exceptional massage services but also champions inclusivity and empowers individuals to lead fulfilling lives.
Since its inception in August 2013, Omamori Spa has blossomed into a haven of tranquility, highly regarded by both the vibrant expat community thriving in Hanoi and discerning international tourists seeking authentic experiences. Its reputation speaks for itself: within a mere year of operation, Omamori Spa proudly earned a coveted spot among TripAdvisor’s top 5 destinations for health and relaxation in Hanoi, a testament to the overwhelmingly positive feedback, with an impressive 95.5% of reviews ranging from “good” to “excellent”! But what are the special ingredients that have allowed Omamori Spa to capture the hearts of customers from across the globe and within Vietnam itself?
The very name, “OMAMORI,” carries a profound meaning. Inspired by the Japanese good luck charm, BlindLink’s visionary founders imbued this name with the hope that their innovative business model would uplift the standard of living for millions of blind and visually impaired individuals throughout Vietnam. Omamori was established with a clear and powerful aim: to revolutionize the employment landscape for the visually impaired. Their mission is to dismantle negative stereotypes and demonstrate to customers that blind employees are not only capable but can deliver services of exceptional quality within a sustainable and thriving business framework.
Stepping into Omamori Spa is like entering another world, a sanctuary where a soothing and inviting atmosphere immediately puts visitors at ease. Just beyond the entrance door, a charming small yard unfolds, revealing a tranquil space adorned with lush green trees that whisper of vitality and purity. Here, carefully placed Terracotta pots, handcrafted in the renowned Phu Lang ceramic village, mingle with delicate Japanese ferns and smooth pebbles. Small, inviting Japanese cushions offer a moment of respite. Every tiny, humble element is arranged with meticulous care, creating a palpable sense of calm that envelops visiting customers. The relentless hustle and bustle, the pervasive pollution, and the daily congestion of Hanoi seem to dissolve right at the doorstep, leaving behind a sense of serenity.
A gentle slide of a wooden door reveals a cozy tea room, styled with Japanese aesthetics. A delicate watercolor painting, titled “Bamboo in Winds,” graces the wall above a vase holding an elegant Ikebana arrangement of cherry blossoms. Soft meditation music drifts through the air, breaking the silence and instilling a profound feeling of stillness. The subtle fragrances of cinnamon or lavender gently permeate the room, a sensory representation of the changing seasons.
Omamori Spa offers a comprehensive range of whole-body massages, each designed to cater to individual needs. These include the signature Omamori Massage, a deeply therapeutic Vietnamese deep tissue massage, alongside the classic relaxation of Swedish massage and the soothing warmth of Hot Stone therapy. For those seeking targeted relief, specialized foot and back massages are also available, particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing chronic pain. The distinctiveness of Omamori’s services rests on three core pillars: the unwavering professionalism and heartfelt dedication of the staff; remarkably affordable prices (150,000 VND for 60 minutes, with a refreshing “no tips” policy); and the profound satisfaction of knowing that your wonderful massage contributes to a truly worthy cause.
The impact of Omamori’s ethos is beautifully captured in the words of a foreign customer who shared their experience with The New Hanoian:
“I love Omamori Spa because of the positive working attitude of the staff. The receptionists always give the customers a warm welcome, the masseurs and masseuses are highly-skilled. They know exactly what they are doing and are sensitive of your feelings. I can say that they have a genuine passion for their job and they deserve more than 5 stars”.
Beyond providing meaningful employment, Omamori Spa and BlindLink are deeply committed to empowering the Vietnamese visually impaired community through free and comprehensive training programs. These initiatives encompass essential English communication skills, ongoing education in advanced massage techniques, and valuable entrepreneurship education, equipping individuals with the tools for personal and professional growth. Furthermore, BlindLink holds the distinction of being the first organization in Vietnam to initiate the impactful White Cane program, having distributed 45 white canes to visually impaired individuals by the end of 2014. To date, an impressive 299 student enrollments and beneficiaries within the community have directly benefited from a wide array of these vital social programs. This remarkable success story would not be possible without the invaluable involvement of both domestic and international communities – including dedicated students from high schools and universities, experienced international experts, and selfless volunteers who have collectively contributed approximately 12,000 voluntary working hours.
Hanoi, 2015
