My gorgeous mum recently turned 50, and I really wanted to outdo everything I’ve given her in the past. 50 is a big deal for most, and I set out to make it the most special day she’d ever experience.

After much contemplation, I settled on giving her experiences rather than physical items. Don’t get me wrong; I love giving beautiful trinkets and thoughtful gifts just as much as the next person. However, you only turn 50 once (#YOT50O) and it needed to be special and well thought out.

There are two things mum loves more than anything in the world, and those are trying delectable dishes from around the world, and indulging in “ahhhh” moments. Working with these two preferences, I agonised for a ages over the plethora of options that were available to me.

Cue, THE LANGHAM & BABOR. As I’m sure most of you are aware, the Langham offers luxury accommodation and experiences like no other. The Langham in Sydney replaced the well-known Observatory Hotel four years ago, but as soon as you step foot into the magnificent lobby you’d assume it had been there forever. Inside the Langham is the infamous Day Spa by Chuan, and one of their signature facials is the BABOR facial. BABOR is the pioneer of luxury skincare, that is high performance and tailor-made for precise skincare problems.

High Tea with Wedgewood at Palm Court

Famed as the birthplace of the traditional Afternoon Tea from the Langham London flagship hotel, Palm Court (which is the exclusive dining room in the Langham) offers a culinary experience like no other. The Afternoon Tea experience is completely exclusive, and the decadent space is even more luxurious, with every table set with beautiful Wedgewood, grand (and extremely comfortable) chairs and fresh roses everywhere.

We were lucky enough to be introduced to Enrico, who was our extremely knowledgeable (and helpful) host that guided us through the Afternoon Tea. The menu was divine, and we started the afternoon off with a glass of the Rose Champagne – easily the most decadent yet lightest champagne I’ve ever had.

After that we were handed an extensive list of teas, which Enrico chatted us through and told us what he’d recommend with each part of the Afternoon Tea. We ended up trying the Peach Flowers, Darjeelong, Irish Whisky and White Melon. They were all seriously amazing, and the unique smell of each wafting as you poured that first hot cup was a real treat. 

The menu was absolutely delicious and expanse, but I can confidently say that it was the best Afternoon Tea either of us have ever had the pleasure of experiencing. Palm Court features Western Harbour views and can fit up to 70 people, with the decadent and season menu chosen to reflect the very best (and tastiest) of local produce.

Whatever you do, make sure you take your time with this Afternoon Tea. We sat down for at least two hours and let ourselves really enjoy the divine ambience and delectable platter of food. Leave your worries and stress at home and make sure you really let yourself divulge in such an exquisite environment.

The Day Spa by Chuan

No birthday is complete with the ultimate pampering session, and I couldn’t think of anything more perfect than giving mum the gift of the BABOR signature facial at the Langham. I’ve been lucky enough to experience this luxurious facial myself, and it’s truly one you’ll never forget.

When you waltz into the Day Spa, you’re immediately greeted by the friendly ladies who run the spa. When you’ve confirmed your appointment, you’ve given a personal tour around the spa and facilities and made to feel like an absolute queen.

The facilities are more lavish than either of us could have ever imagined – think 20m long heated pool accompanied by a sumptuous spa, a sauna infused with eucalyptus, state of the art gym facilities, change-rooms to make any other spa envious and the treatment rooms were palatial.

The Day Spa by Chuan is one of Sydney’s leading and longest running Day Spas, and features 10 treatment rooms designed for the ultimate relaxation. When you book in for a treatment, you’re given a plethora of time to detox, renew, relax and rejuvenate within the serene underground spa sanctuary.

The facial is the Doctor Babor Cosmeceutical Facial, and is the very definition of luxury. The DOCTOR BABOR high-performance formulas are based on the synergy of the latest state of knowledge in the fields of science & medicine, as well as the experience resulting from their many decades of dedicated research. The facial goes for an hour, but really feels even longer thanks to the experienced spa staff and their incredible methodology.

The treatment itself is an absolute treat, and uses a variety of DOCTOR BABOR products to address and provide solutions for your skin concerns. It uses Vitamin A to boost your skin’s renewal processes, which in turn corrects the first signs of ageing; think wrinkles, fine lines, dryness and pigment changes.

When mum finished her treatment, she came out as though she was floating on cloud 9. Her skin was absolutely glowing, and the two hero products (DOCTOR BABOR Refine Cellular & DOCTOR BABOR Lifting Cellular Collagen Booster Cream) instantly went on her next birthday wish-list.

If you’re looking for the ultimate birthday package, I cannot recommend this divine combination. The question on my mind? How the heck am I meant to top this for next year?!