By Caroline Carter
According to a study conducted at Cornell University (see Resources), a trip to the spa while on vacation can enhance your health. Spa treatment customers are generally fitter, healthier and have a better understanding of who they are. When people are pampered, they often end up feeling much better about themselves when they leave the treatment centers. If you're ready to get ahead of the curve and in on the spa craze, your options are endless both in location and treatment types.
Santuary Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa
This resort is located in the Valley of the Sun on the northern slope of the Camelback Mountains. An Asian-inspired theme is interwoven in some of their spa treatments. Acupuncture, Table Thai Massage and Luk Pra Kope (a massage with medicinal herbs) are just some of their signature treatments. Shiatsu and Reiki are other popular Asian massage techniques offered. Facials at the spa always include analysis, and cleansing and an anti-aging peel are available. A unique Emperors facial is offered for men. The 105 luxurious mountain and spa casitas are appointed with kitchen nooks and some with wood-burning fireplaces.
Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain
5700 East McDonald Drive
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
(800) 245-2051
sanctuaryoncamelback.com
Miramonte Resort and Spa
The Well Luxury Spa at the Miramonte Resort centers around an area discovered hundreds of years ago by natives who lived in the California desert. It came to be known as Indian Wells. Much like then as now, travelers continue to visit the area for relaxation and rejuvenation. Unique services here include Watsu (a massage done while lying in warm water) bagno vino (wine baths) and Vichy Showers. Visitors can indulge their creative side with one of their Pittura Festa (Painting Parties), whereby multicolored mud and clay are rubbed all over the body, face and hair. The mud is attributed with cleansing and detoxifying the body. The desert-style resort offers typical hotel room types, from standard to presidential, and includes many amenities.
Miramonte Resort and Spa
45000 Indian Wells Lane
Indian Wells, CA 92210
(800) 237-2926
miramonteresort.com
Canyon Ranch
Nestled in the Berkshires and sporting a very New England feel, Canyon Ranch is located in Lenox, Massachusetts. A distinct property for the area centered around an architectural landmark known as the historic Bellefontaine Mansion. Conference facilities, two abundant guest lounges complete with fireplaces and a two-story solarium make the Mansion a great gathering spot. Linked to the Bellafontaine Mansion is the 100, 000 square foot Spa Complex. This elaborate fitness facility adjoins the spa treatment area. Treatments include traditional facials and massages as well as restorative techniques. Canyon Ranch requires a three-night minimum stay. The all-inclusive packages costs about $1100 for a double occupancy room. It includes three meals a day and access to every part of the complex.
Canyon Ranch Lenox
165 Kemble Street
Lenox, MA 01240
(800) 742-9000
canyonranchlenox.com
Resources
About the Author:
Caroline Carter is a freelance sports/health and fitness writer based in Alpharetta, Georgia. She worked for 15 years as a television/radio sports anchor/reporter in Canada. She covered many legendary sports franchises. Carter is also a licensed travel agent. She has a degree in broadcast journalism from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology in Calgary, Canada.
