Spas
Need some TLC? Indulge your senses at a spa. We’ll help you relax, rejuvenate and reconnect.
Choosing the Ideal Spa
When you want to go to a spa, think about the kind of experience you want to have. We’ve teamed with Travel & Leisure to pick the best spots throughout the world that’ll fit your needs--such as fitness (head to the Red Mountain Spa in Utah), a spiritual journey (try the Enchantment Resort in Arizona), and overall ambiance (visit the Auberge de Soleil in Northern California).
What could be better than sipping wine after a luxurious day at the spa? Treat yourself to a weekend that marries the best of both worlds. Visit the stylish and tranquil Milliken Creek in Napa Valley, which is situated on the winery-lined Silverado Trail. Or, enjoy the Ashland’s Inn and Spa wine tasting package in Oregon, a region that’s known for its hardy Cabernets and Zinfandels. We’ll get you there.
Here’s the ultimate getaway for golf lovers: after a day of hitting the links at the Four Seasons in Scottsdale, Arizona, head over to their spa and enjoy the Golfer’s Massage. Warm golf balls are used to massage tight muscles, alleviate tension and reduce golf related stiffness by focusing on trigger points (such as between the shoulders). Its purpose is to improve performance and range of motion.
Massages have progressed into something so much more than just a pair of hands kneading knots in your back. Next time you head to the spa, book a Hot Stone Massage. The direct heat of the stones (placed in strategic points on the body) quickly warm and relax muscles. This way, therapists can do deeper work in a shorter amount of time.
If you can’t get to premiere health spas such as Rancho La Puerta or the Lake Austin Spa Resort, bring their wholesome cooking tips and techniques to you. Discover ways to jazz up your dishes, such as creatively using herbs and spices rather than fat and sodium. Our link will help you create fresh-from-the-garden cuisine at home.
Wondering how much to tip? It’s customary to give 15 – 20% of the total cost of the treatment. Some spas include a pre-set service fee, so check the total of your bill first. And tip $3 - $9 to the coordinator who leads you to a changing room, gives you a robe and towels, and offers tea or water.
Here’s a hot hint for the best rates: book your spa stay seasonally. For instance, hit desert destinations in the summer (when it may not be as popular due to the hotter weather). Places such as Two Bunch Palms in Palm Springs, California offer a 40% discount on all room rates in July and August. When making reservations, always ask for seasonal rates.
Yearning for more than just an afternoon at the spa? For your next vacation, spend several days at a destination resort such as SpaHalekulani in Hawaii or Chiva Som in Thailand. Before you go, start drinking more water (8 – 10 glasses a day); cut down on sugar and salt; eat more fruits and veggies; and try to walk two miles a day. Wondering where to go? Visit our link for top spas. We’ve included package suggestions and prices to help you choose!
In between visits, re-create a spa experience at home. Design a soothing space with candles. For a cleaner burn, spabox.com says to use those made with natural wax, such as soy. And, change products according to the seasons. During warmer months, use cooling scents such as mint, floral or citrus. When the weather turns cool, focus on warming/stimulating scents such as ginger, lemongrass or vanilla. Visit our link for more at-home hints.
Wondering which spa treatments to choose? Massages improve circulation and reduce stress; exfoliation cleanses the body by removing dead skin cells; mud baths and wraps eliminate toxins; and hydrotherapy treatments combat muscle soreness. Before you book your appointment, always ask if they are running any monthly specials.
