Hey you! Yeah, you, reading this hunched over a computer, sipping stale coffee. Wouldn't you like a chance to relax and unwind, a chance to escape work obligations and everyday stress? One great solution is a spa vacation. Spas come with a wide range of prices and activities, therapies, processes and lifestyles -- everything from clothing-optional hiking adventures to total body detox.
Situated on 650 acres in sunny Miami, Florida, the Doral Golf Resort and Spa (800/ 713-6725; www.doralgolf.com) features high-end luxury spa facilities alongside championship golf courses, fine-dining restaurants, a water recreation park and a world famous Tennis Center. A few days at Doral, recognized as one of the top ten spas in the world, will refresh, revive and invigorate.
The European inspired Spa at Doral combines old-world charm with a contemporary selection of services, including over one hundred different luxurious spa treatments, a registered dietician/ nutritionist and a state-of-the-art exercise center.
Until December 1, 2004, you can enjoy the following packages at reduced rates. The Spa Experience at $205 per night, per person (double occupancy) includes accommodation in a garden resort room, breakfast, a 50-minute spa treatment, and access to spa facilities and classes. If you upgrade to the Spa Escape, for $235 per night, you get the above, plus an executive spa suite with a Jacuzzi tub.
Their Spa Renewal package for $360 per night features accommodation in a spa master suite, three gourmet meals at the Atrium (spa restaurant), one 50-minute treatment, one 25-minute treatment, access to spa facilities and classes, and a gift and fruit platter.
Don't think that these treatments are only for women. Doral has a range of exclusive spa treatments and health programs designed specifically with men in mind, including nutritional consultation, sports pedicures and men's scalp treatments.
The Daufuskie Island Resort & Spa (800/ 648-6778; www.daufuskieresort.com) is on the southernmost point of South Carolina, on a private island only accessible via ferry (843/842-2000) from Hilton Head Island, one mile away. Ferries depart every two hours from 8 am to 8 pm with 48-hour advanced reservations required. The 190-room resort includes ocean-view rooms at the inn and two- and four-bedroom ocean-front cottages. It also features the Breathe Spa, two championship golf courses (one designed by Jack Nicklaus), four restaurants, swimming pools, three miles of white sand, pristine beach, an equestrian center, tennis center; bicycle rentals, boat charters, fishing, and water sports.
Their Head to Toe Pampering package includes accommodation for three nights in either a posh room at the Melrose Inn or in a luxurious two- or four-bedroom cottage, breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, seven spa services per person, access to the fitness center, spa and food and beverage gratuities, and resort fees. Prices start at $1013 per person until November 14. From November 15 prices drop to $923.
The Girlfriends' Getaway package includes accommodation for two nights, breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, two 50-minute services per person, one 80-minute service per person, one manicure and spa pedicure per person, unlimited use of tennis courts, 10% discount at the Equestrian Center, Breathe Spa signature robe and slippers, amenity welcome basket, access to the fitness center, spa and food & beverage gratuities, resort fees, the first four seasons of "Sex in the City" for your viewing pleasure during your stay, a $25 shopping certificate at the spa, martinis on the Melrose Inn Terrace overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, disposable cameras, a mini photo album and spa journals. Priced from $1346 per person until November 14. From November 15 prices drop to $1186
The Breathe Spa offers an extensive list of treatments from facials and massages to hydrotherapy and mud baths. Some of their more unique packages include Cleopatra's Day (Cleopatra Bath, Youthful Glow Facial, Aromatherapy Massage, Spa Manicure, and Deep Lavender Pedicure), and the 19th Hole (Mineral Bath, Sports Massage, and Sports Foot Treatment).
The Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa (800/ 950-0086; www.arizonabiltmore.com) provides a peaceful oasis on 39 acres covered with lush gardens, swimming pools, and Frank Lloyd Wright-influenced architecture, all in the heart of Phoenix. From now until December 31, 2004, book through Spa Quest (800/772-7837; www.spa-quest.com), a dedicated spa- vacation website, pay for three nights, and receive your fourth night free. A fifth night free program will be in effect between January 1 and May 24, 2005. Prices start at $149 per person per night in a Classic Room, including accommodation and standard resort fees (includes local phone call, daily newspaper; admission to Biltmore Spa, use of fitness center; complimentary self parking, use of the 18-hole putting course and a free shuttle to Biltmore Fashion Park). A number of spa packages to complement your stay are also available; the Gentlemen's Reprieve starts at $270 and the Journey of Bliss costs $290.
New Age Health Spa (800/ 682-4348; www.newagehealthspa.com) in Neversink, New York is set on 280 pristine acres in Sullivan County, approximately two-hours' drive from New York City. This all-inclusive resort offers health-enhancing programs and spa treatments for men and women in a casual environment. With their 2-for-1 special, you pay the single rate, and take a second person free. This special is valid for Sunday to Thursday stays from October 31 2004 to April 28 2005. Holiday blackout periods apply and prices start at $254 per night.
You can also get a $50 resort credit for any stay this month (September 2004). The credit is valid on the Nightly Package with Meals for stays of two nights or longer. This package includes accommodation, three healthy meals daily, complete use of spa facilities and unlimited participation in scheduled activities. Their Mini-Week package, valid throughout the year, offers you free qualifying spa treatments, valued at $150, when you check in on Sunday and out on Friday.
A selection of holistic spa treatments is available including pampering bodywork, private wellness consultations (weight-loss and stress management), muscle-soothing massage, skin conditioning body wraps and anti-aging facials. The aim is to provide guests with a recipe for a more balanced way of life through a combination of fitness activities, spiritual exercises, eco-adventures and treatments. Some of their signature treatments include "Healing Stone Therapy" ($175 for 100 minutes) and "Maple Sugar Body Polish" ($90 for 50 minutes).
So take the plunge and indulge in a local spa getaway -- a rejuvenated, relaxed and healthier you awaits!