How Massage Therapy Saved My Two Week Spa Vacation

What would happen if on the third day of a two week fitness spa get-away you fall off the sidewalk on the way back to your room and badly sprain your ankle? Is your vacation doom before it has barely begun? Nope, not even close. First, go to the emergency room to make sure it's not broken. Then get the next available appointment with one of the on-site massage therapists. Massage in this case has benefits in several areas. I know because this actually happened to me. So please join me for a short tale of how my massage therapist saved my two week spa vacation or three benefits to massage therapy!

First let's start with stress. Within minutes of the accident beautiful colors were already tinting my ankle and foot. The thoughts running through my head during those first couple of hours, first in emergency and then through dinner, echoed the main question of my fellow spa-mates. "Are you going home?" I don't know about the rest of the population, but I go to the spa for stress relief as much as for exercise and in my book this rates up there as a stressful situation.

Thankfully I had a massage scheduled for after dinner that night. After several minutes into my massage the massage therapist worked her magic and I had no choice but to begin to relax under her artful hands. You see the injury had not just effected my ankle. My whole body had become more ridged in support of that injury. But the muscles, the lymphatic system, my blood pressure all became putty in her hands. And then she worked the pressure points that make you want to breathe deeper encouraging a more relaxing state of mind. My brain calmed down and "Are you going home?" stopped ringing in my head. I was in a state of calm.

Then, she got to the ankle. This is the physical healing part of massage. Ever so gently she worked around the injury. Encouraging those muscles to loosen and relax. Encouraging that ankle to not hold onto the blood but to move it through and around to bring faster healing to the injury. I got off her table that night walking out of her office much better than walking into it.

And I had a smile on my face. You see I had made a decision. I'm not going home. I'm not yet clear how it's going to work out but I'm staying! That was the emotional benefit of massage.

That was Wednesday. I had two more massage treatments with my massage therapist over the next three days. These treatments keep my muscles loose and in a better state for healing. It was hard not to favor my ankle because I refused to stop going to the exercise classes! Yes, I could have parked myself in the sunshine and gotten a GREAT tan but that tan wouldn't look so good in my clothes when I got back home if I stopped exercising. So I did what I could. I could still work my upper body and I could still work out in the pool. I attended each class and did what I could, even the kick boxing class. And boy did I ever punch that dummy bag. Kicking, well not so much.

The following Monday on the timed four mile, sidewalk/road, up a thousand foot walk I bettered my time from the week before by 10 minutes! By the end of the second week I had lost a pound more than from my two weeks stay the previous year! And even with the added stress of an injury clearly my spa vacation was saved by massage and my massage therapist! (Thank you Jane Ann!)

By Pamela Ann

About Author
Pamela Ann does administrative work at the Ann Arbor real estate buyer's agent company For more information on how massage therapy can help you reduce stress and heal faster, visit Ann Arbor Massage Therapy

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Top 5 Caribbean Spa Vacations

Vacations are fabulous. Yet many people express the need for a vacation from their vacation due to all the planning, hustle, bustle and activities. Imagine a vacation with no choice but to relax and revitalize as you experience complete pampering and indulgence. That's right! We're talking about a spa vacation many of which are all inclusive. So, focus on a warm tropical Caribbean.

Now, how do you decide the best place to go for your royal experience. Take a look at the Top 5 Spa vacations in the Caribbean to choose your personal spa getaway.

One and Only Ocean Club, Bahamas

The One and Only Ocean Club is located on Paradise Island's north shore in the Bahamas. The spa is an exclusive hideaway offering 106 luxurious accommodations with private balcony or patio, garden or ocean views, poolside concierge service, 18-hole golf course, 8 private spa treatment villas and more.

Rates at The One and Only Ocean Club, Bahamas vary between $515 to $3050 per night for $3,642 to $9684 for 5-Night spa packages. Learn more by visiting The One and Only Ocean Club, Bahamas website.

The Oasis at The Body Holiday Le SPORT, St. Lucia

The Body Holiday LeSPORT located in St. Lucia features 154 rooms. This all inclusive spa covers drinks, meals at all resort restaurants, certain spa treatments, activities, gratuities and land and water sports.

Summer/Winter rates are from $250 to $360 per night. Visit The Body Holiday LeSPORT, St. Lucia website.

Parrot Cay Resort & Shambhala Retreat, Turks Caicos

The Parrot Cay Resort is a private island resort in the northeast area of Providenciales. This villa collection located beyond Rocky Point affords guests a private and secure beach. The "Shambhala" holistic spa offers body treatments, massages, yoga, and walks in unique, breathtaking settings along with Balinese, Thai, Tu'ina, Swedish, Aromatherapy and Indian head massages, water sports centre and a fully equipped gym.

Double Occupancy rates from $315 to $24,000 per night. Visit The Parrot Cay Resort & Shambhala Retreat, Turks Caicos website.

Malliouhana Resort & Spa, Anguilla

The Malliouhana Resort & Spa is a 52-room oceanfront spa found on the small Anguilla island. It offers therapeutic and specialty massages, hair and nail treatments, restaurant, Jacuzzi and pool suites with many views overlooking Turtle Cove beach.

Serenity is a only $520 to $521 per night based on double occupancy. Photos and details available at The Malliouhana Resort & Spa website..

Cuisinart Resort & Spa, Anguilla

The Cuisinart Resort & Spa presents 93 plush rooms and suites. It showcases Mediterranean style with whitewashed villas surrounded by lush foliage. The spa provides world-class restaurants, fitness center or spa, in-house bar, snorkeling, and the world's only resort hydroponic farm.

Rates are between $385 to $4,510 per night. More details available at The CuisinArt Resort & Spa, Anguilla website.

By TF Black

About Author
Born in Ohio as the youngest of nine, TF Black has a love for historical romance novels. Ms. Black enjoyed a career in Information Systems. She now spends her days as a writer on the venues of travel, wine and food, grants and entrepreneurial incubation. She also writes as a Fashion Columnist for ANDMagazine.com.

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Spa Getaways in Coral Gables Florida

Coral Gables, one of Florida's most historic cities, is the perfect place for a relaxing spa vacation. Coral Gables is easily accessible to the Miami International Airport, Port of Miami, Coconut Grove and Miami's trendy South Beach area. Feast your eyes on lush tropical beauty and stunning Mediterranean architecture. Visit the prestigious art galleries and boutiques in town. Walk barefoot in the sand on the beach. The area has hotels with luxurious, full service spas and spa packages. Enjoy the tropical beauty of the area and get rejuvenating, relaxing and healthful spa treatments. Following are hotels with spa packages.

Biltmore Resort
1200 Anastasia Avenue
Coral Gables, FL
800-915-1926

Luxury golf and spa resort is located in upscale Coral Gables, surrounded by 150 aces of lush topical gardens. The property features an eighteen hole golf course, swimming pool and spa. Restaurants on the property include: 1200 Courtyard Grill, Palmer d'Or, Cascade Poolside Bar & Grill, Biltmore Bar, 19th Hole Sports Bar & Grill and the Cellar Club Bar. The Spa provides a relaxing setting for pampering, rejuvenating spa services and treatments. A full service beauty salon is available. The luxurious Biltmore Spa offers an extensive menu of spa treatments. Services include massage therapy, facial treatments, hair removal, body treatments, body wraps, terme spa baths, lifestyle kurs, signature rituals, salon hair care, make-up, manicure and pedicure. Massage therapy treatments include Swedish, deep tissue, reflexology, shiatsu, Signature, Hawaiian Lomi Lomi, Thai, Hot Stone and Mother-to-be. Healthful, rejuvenating body treatments include: citrus scrub, bamboo lemongrass scrub, eucalyptus scrub, le vin chardonnay scrub, exotic scrub, anti-cellulite treatment, aroma back relief, relax aroma treatment, tonic body treatment, flow body treatment and detox body treatment. With the variety of spa services available at the Biltmore Spa, a spa vacation will cleanse, relax and revitalize you.

Biltmore Spa Splendor

Spa package includes Junior Suite Accommodations on the Spa Level, welcome spa amenity, $250 Biltmore Spa Credit, Room Tax and resort fee included. Minimum 2 night stay $700-$1000 (price is per person, per night, double occupancy).

Hyatt Regency Coral Gables
50 Alhambra Plaza
Coral Gables, FL
305-441-1234

Hyatt's amenities include an outdoor heated swimming pool and fitness center. AAA Four Diamond.

Spa Package

Spa package includes: deluxe accommodations, breakfast for two in the Tow Sisters Restaurant, transportation to the Camelot Salon and Spa, manicure an Pedicure, Choice of one hour facial or massage, lunch provided by Camelot Salon and Spa.

Ritz Carlton Coconut Grove, Miami
3300 Southwest Twenty Seventh Avenue
Coconut Grove, FL
305-644-4680

Gloriously situated in lush tropical surroundings, the Ritz Carlton has panoramic views of Biscayne Bay, Coral Gables and the Miami skyline. The specious guest rooms have private balconies and floor to ceiling windows to to enjoy the scenic beauty. The property features manicured gardens, swimming pool nd a 6,00 square foot Boutique Spa and Fitness Center. Spa services include massage, nail care, skin care, and Signature treatments. Restaurants on the property, include: Bizcaya and The Lobby Lounge. The Ritz-Carlton has been designated the prestigious AAA Five Diamond.

Spa Girls in the Grove

Rejuvenate with your girlfriends with this pampering, rejuvenating spa package. The Spa Girls package includes: deluxe accommodations, one signature treatment at the Boutique Spa (Signature Massage or Signature Facial), $50 Spa boutique credit once per day. Rates start at $639.

Mayfair Hotel & Spa
3000 Florida Avenue
Coconut Grove, FL
800-433-4555

Newly renovated hotel is centrally located in Coconut Grove, just minutes from downtown Miami, Coral Gables and South Beach. The Mayfair Hotel offers a soothing, sensual setting with luxury amenities and superior service. Ginger Grove restaurant offers pan-Asian cuisine in a stunning setting. Amenities include a resort-style rooftop deck with infinity pool, and 4500 square foot Jurlique Spa. Jurlique Spa offers revitalizing massages and rejuvenating facials. Jurlique's spa philosophy is focused on restoring energy and healing from within. Signature treatments combine Eastern and Western spa philosophies. the spa uses plant based products, grown organically, on their own herb farms in Australia. Spa treatments include: Fabulous Facials, Body Treatments, Hand and Foot Treatments, Water Therapy & Spa Ritual Packages. AAA Four Diamond.

Single and Sexy in the City

Package includes accommodations with private Japanese soaking tub on the balcony, 60 minute spa service of your choice, Jurlique gift. $329.

Information subject to change. Please call the hotels for further information and to make reservations.

By Christine Bude Nyholm

About Author
With nearly 3 million pages view Christine is one of the top 100 AC Contributors and Won Best of AC for Winter Travel Guides in 2008 and Best of Alternative Health in 2009. Christine's article Shop Around for Prescriptions was featured on CBS Early Morning News. She recently was invited to the Red Carpet Premiere for the Jackson: A Family Dynasty on A&E.

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Spa Getaways in Miami

An spa vacation on the beach front is the ultimate spa experience. The fine hotels of Miami offer luxurious spa treatments in state of the art spas that offer body treatments, massage services, facials, manicure, pedicures, salon services and much more. These Miami hotels have designed pampering spa packages that include accommodations and spa services.

The Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne
455 Grand Bay Drive
Key Biscayne, FL
305-365-4500

Located on the ocean front on Key Biscayne. The Five Diamond hotel offers extensive amenities. Relax in one of the two heated oceanfront swimming pools and whirlpool. Dine at the country's only "Tequilier" at Cantina Beach, or at the signature restaurant - Cioppino. The Spa offers an soothing escape with ocean inspired renewal. The Ritz -Carlton Spa at Key Biscayne was named one of the best spas in North America by Conde Nast Traveler. The spa has 21 treatment rooms, a wellness center, a state of the art fitness cent and a full service salon. AAA Five Diamond Resort, Large Scale Hotel.

Suite Dreams Romance and Honeymoon Package

Package requires a three night minimum stay. Suite Dreams package includes accommodations, daily breakfast for two, dinner for two (once per stay), Two, one-hour Ritz -Carlton Signature massages, rose petal turn down upon arrival, Airport transportation a (one way) or valet parking, personal concierge service, 2 pm late checkout. Rates start at $1,259 per night.

Hyatt Regency Coral Gables
50 Alhambra Plaza
Coral Gables, FL
305-441-1234

Spa Package

Deluxe accommodations, breakfast for two in the Two sisters Restaurant, Transportation to the Camelot Salon and Spa, Manicure and Pedicure, Choice of 1 hour facial or massage, lunch provided by Camelot Salon and Spa.

Mandarin Oriental - Miami
500 Brickell Key Drive
Miami, FL
305-913-8383

Prestigious location on Brickell Key. The Mandarin Oriental offers a sanctuary with waterfront views, opulent comfort, and a spectacular spa. Dine at one of their restaurants: Azul, Cafe Sambal, Lobby Lounge and M'-Bar. Relax in the world class spa and fitness center. AAA Four Diamond.

Spa Ancient Ayurvedic

Luxury accommodation in Spa Lifestyle Room or Dynasty Suite for three nights, American breakfast for two daily, Welcome Foot ritual, Facial Cleanse, Full Body Ex foliation, choice of treatments (Ayurvedic Holistic Body, Life Dance) Choice of Shirodhara or Marma Point Foot Massage, Choice of Aromatherapy Facial or Dosha Specific Wrap, one yogaclass per person, per stay. All spa treatments will be reserved for one day to receive optimum benefits. $2,549 to $4,259. Rates vary with room and season.

Fairmont Turnberry Isle Resort and Club
Miami, FL
800-257-7544

Spa My Way Package

Indulgent package is designed to sooth, rejuvenate and relax you. The package includes luxurious over sized accommodations with balcony or terrace, sumptuous breakfast buffet in Veranda Restaurant daily, Choice of 60 minute spa treatments (Relaxation massage, Aromatherapy massage, deep cleansing facial, tropical garden facial, gentleman's barber face treatment, gentle body polish, aroma salt ex foliation, golden sun wrap), one hour of tennis court time daily, unlimited admission to the Willow Stream Spa, unlimited privileges to Ocean Club on the Atlantic Ocean, complimentary shuttle service. Rates for $609 to $889 per night per room.

Four Seasons Hotel Miami
1435 Brickell Avenue
Miami, FL
305-358-3535

Ocean Front hotel with Five Diamond amenities. Recreational facilities include: fitness facilities, swimming pools and spa services. 3 three separate swimming pools.

Splash Spa is a 50,000 square food facility with a total of 10 treatment rooms, including: dry redwood sauna, a Turkish steam room, and wet treatment area with Vichy shower. The extensive menu of spa services includes: signature treatments, massages, body treatments, facials and waxing. Acqua Restaurant ,on the premises, serves global cuisine with Asian and Latin influences. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. AAA Five Diamond Large Scale Resort.

By Christine Bude Nyholm

About Author
With nearly 3 million pages view Christine is one of the top 100 AC Contributors and Won Best of AC for Winter Travel Guides in 2008 and Best of Alternative Health in 2009. Christine's article Shop Around for Prescriptions was featured on CBS Early Morning News. She recently was invited to the Red Carpet Premiere for the Jackson: A Family Dynasty on A&E.

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Spa Vacation Spot in Israel - Mizpe Hayamim, Rosh Pina

When my husband and I need to relax and want something special, we've been known to indulge ourselves and take a couple of days to stay at this lovely spa hotel. Nestled in the hills of the upper Galilee, the name of this means "Viewpoint of the Seas", and on a clear day, you can see the Sea of Galilee to the east and the Mediterranean to the west. But the best view from this hotel is of the snow-capped Mount Hermon. Mizpe Hayamim is truly a pleasure to stay at, despite the slightly high price you'll pay (and some of the spa bits cost extra). Still, if you need to really kick back and relax, this is the place - so hang the cost, we're worth it!

While not a terribly large hotel, this caters more to the moneyed visitors with 50 regular rooms but 41 suites. The whole place is carefully taken care of, is always clean, and seems well kept up. Even the simple standard rooms are luxuriously fitted out and are designed for maximum comfort and relaxation. You'll find a big king-sized bed, and some are even four-posters, draped with curtains that make you feel like royalty. While room service isn't perfect, they have in their lobby/reading room/central area a huge selection of herbal teas and all sorts of interesting things to eat like seasonal fruits or natural, organic pastries available free of charge. The best bit - as soon as you get into your room, take off your outer clothing and don your provided slippers and robe and wander the facilities in that all day and night. Technically, you don't have to get dressed unless you want to leave the hotel. Yum!

More than anything else, this hotel gives you a feeling of old-world welcome and atmosphere combined with natural and organic pampering (I hope that's not an oxymoron). You'll feel like you're there for your all-round health - both physical and spiritual - and whenever I've been there I've felt like time went just a touch slower since everything was so relaxed. They're really best known for their in-house spa facilities as well as the sports you can get to and hikes you can take in the area.

If people are worried about the "natural" and "organic" bit, they shouldn't be. Vegetarians will be thrilled and even vegans can have a plethora of what to eat for breakfast, with produce from their own organic farm and in-house bakery. For dinners, they now have two restaurants – one vegetarian and one meat. These both are considered to serve organic food, and considered to be at gourmet level, which means they are both priced in that range.

Of course, being as expensive as it is, it mostly attracts wealthier customers - but thankfully, sometimes we lowly peons can find special deals. Back in its earlier days, everyone was always warmly welcomed. Over the years, as they became more popular, there were experiences where staff seemed to treat us as if we weren't really worthy of being there. But on my last stay there - which was after their last renovation - while I still felt they were a touch on the snooty side, I did feel they made an effort to be as nice to the "bonus voucher" clients as they were to the full price ones. So if I can find a deal, this will still be the first place I'll choose to go.

As I already mentioned, the food here is organic and/or natural. Breakfasts are generous and beautifully arranged, with a cook on hand to make fresh pancakes or eggs to order. I've never seen more fancy cheeses and salads anywhere, and Israel is known for its large spreads at breakfast. With real linen tablecloths and nice heavy silverware, everything feels sumptuous and the dining area is bright and welcoming. Mind you, they aren't big on coffee and don't serve any alcohol (besides wine at the restaurants), but if you like teas and juices, this is for you!

This is located in one of the most beautiful areas in all of Israel. The hills of the Galilee are stunning and stretch out in front of you from under your feet. Even in the summer, they do everything they can to keep the grounds looking lush and green. Plus with Mount Hermon out your window, what else can you ask for?

Mind you, this isn't easy to get to and I don't think there are busses to here, so you'll probably need a car. Even so, until the large road 6 is finished and it finally gets this far north, it isn't going to be a short ride. Also, when you do get there, you have to go up a narrow winding road above the small town of Rosh Pina which is about 15 minutes south of Kiryat Shmona (which also isn't that large a town). Still, there's a small airport nearby and you could fly to that from anywhere in the country and either rent a car from there or take a taxi to the hotel.

Due to where this is located, there's not much on-site in the way of nightlife. During the day, their organic farm as well as their natural soap and candle-making workshop have on-site shops. Of course, why visit a spa if you don't try at least one of the many treatments (most cost extra) available, not to mention the fitness rooms, saunas, Jacuzzis and swimming pool? If you go down the hill and into town, you'll find about anything you want - and if you're ambitious, go as far north as Ma'alot and there you can even go ice-skating! And there's no end of places to see in the area from hikes to history. But this only means that this is very quiet and perfect for a relaxing stay. I'll give it five stars and recommend it for those who can afford it and have access to a car.

By Davida Chazan

About Author
I'm known on the internet as "The Chocolate Lady" and I am a published poet but also write for several on-line review sites. My favorite review categories are books and movies. Born in Evanston, IL I now live in Jerusalem, Israel.

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Spa Vacations in Sonoma, California

Sonoma, in Northern California, is located in the heart of one of the world's premier wine producing regions. Sonoma and Sonoma Valley offer a variety of attractions for visitors. Popular activities in Sonoma include wine tasting at the many wineries in the vicinity, shopping at the historic plaza, golf, healthful spa days, hiking and more. There are numerous dining choices with elegant restaurants, casual cuisine and ethnic food.

Historic Sonoma Plaza is an eight acre park that was designed 150 years ago by the Mexican Governor Mariano Vallejo. The park is filled with stately trees and walking paths. There are shops, restaurants and historical sites surrounding the plaza.

Sonoma, CA is in the heart of wine country, with regional wineries offering tours and tasting of their fine wines. Many vacations in Sonoma are centered around the enjoyment of wine tasting. Wineries in Sonoma include Ravenswood Winery, Castle Vineyards & Winery, Gloria Ferrer Caves and Vineyards, Kamen Estate Wines, Larson Family Winery, Sebastiani Vineyards and Sonoma-Enoteca,

The combination of a wine tasting vacation and spa vacation sounds like a perfect, leisurely, relaxing vacation. There are fine hotels in Sonoma with excellent spa facilities that provide pampering treatments. Following are hotels with spas in Sonoma.

The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa. Historic spa destination offers an elegant oasis with natural hot springs offers an idyllic location for a relaxing vacation getaway. The spa enjoys the thermal mineral waters that have graced the site for hundreds of years. According tot he Fairmont website, "Our spa pays homage to ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman civilizations" Spend some time visiting the local wineries and sampling the fine wines, then return to the hotel for some relaxing spa treatments. Enjoy the fitness center, spa, salon, bath house and spa mineral pool. Fine dining on site at Sante Restaurant, The Big 3 and the Water Tower. 707-938-9000.

The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa. Luxury boutique property offers accommodations in cottages, suites and lodge rooms. Relax at the Raindance Spa, which offers skincare treatments, massage therapies, body treatments, manicures and pedicures and hydrotherapy baths. Dine at the Carneros Bistro, which has garnered several awards for excellence. AAA Four Diamond. 707-935-6600.

Macarthur Place Country Inn. Located in the Sonoma Valley Wine Country just four blocks from historic Sonoma Plaza is this luxurious 64 room hotel and spa. This property was originally a prestigious 300 acre vineyard and ranch. The 19th century estate has been transformed into a romantic, luxurious inn and spa. The inn has 9 suites that feature individual fireplaces, artwork, king beds, hydrotherapy tubs or rain showers, wet bars, DVD players and flat panel televisions. There are seven acres of gardens filled with original sculpture, fountains and benches. The heated pool and whirlpool are located in the beautiful garden setting. The Spa is an oasis of calm offering a unique array of treatments based of specific fruit, flower and herbal elements. massage treatments, body treatments and facials using a single essential oil note, such as rose, ylang-ylang, lavender, citrus or jasmine. Dine at Saddles Steakhouse which is consistently rated the "Best Steakhouse in the Wine Country: The wine list featuring as outstanding selection of Sonoma and Napa wines has earned the Wine Spectator's "Best of Award of Excellence". Guests of the inn received a complimentary breakfast every morning. AAA Four Diamond. 707-938-2929.

Best Western Sonoma. This hotel is located near the historic Sonoma Plaza. Hotel features amenities including complimentary breakfast, free Internet, fitness facilities, Spa Gratitude. Most of the vintage rooms feature a fireplace, private balcony or patio and garden courtyard view. 767-938-9200.

Information subject to change. Contact the hotels for further information and to make reservations.

By Christine Bude Nyholm

About Author
With nearly 3 million pages view Christine is one of the top 100 AC Contributors and Won Best of AC for Winter Travel Guides in 2008 and Best of Alternative Health in 2009. Christine's article Shop Around for Prescriptions was featured on CBS Early Morning News. She recently was invited to the Red Carpet Premiere for the Jackson: A Family Dynasty on A&E.

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Spa Getaways on California's Mendocino Coast

The Mendocino Coast is located along the Pacific Ocean, north of San Francisco. The coastal area is known for spectacular scenery, distinctive winers and the relaxing ambiance. This coastal area is home to inns and B&B with luxurious accommodations and beautiful ocean views. Some of the ins offers relaxing and rejuvenated spa treatments as well.

A spa vacation on the Pacific Coast in the Northern California wine country may just be the ultimate indulgence. Guest can spend the day searching out interesting wineries and sample the fine wines form Napa, Sonoma and Mendocino wine regions. There is fantastic sightseeing in the area, with giant redwoods and ocean front drives. Enjoy spa treatments and massages before or after exploring wine country. Enjoy a gourmet meal in one of the fine local restaurants. Relax and enjoy the sunset while enjoying a glass of wine.

The Mendocino Wine Country begins about 90 miles north of San Francisco. Nearly 40 wineries are located in the three regions of Mendocino County, including Redwood Valley, Ukiah, Hopland and Anderson Valley. Ukiah and Hopland are in the Russian River area of the County.

Following are three highly rated inns with spas on the coastal area north of San Francisco. Bodega Bay is south of Mendocino, and is the closest to San Francisco. There inns offer relaxing, pampering getaway destinations on the coastal area of Northern California's Wine County.

Bodega Bay Spa and Lodge. Bodega Bay is located just one hour north of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. The lodge overbooks beautiful scenery, including the Pacific Ocean, Doran Beach State Park and the green bluffs of Bodega Head. Luxurious resort with 84 guest rooms and suites that feature spectacular ocean views and romantic fireplaces. The hotel's amenities include a complimentary wine hour, swimming pool, whirlpool, sauna, fitness center and full service spa. This restful setting is a wonderful place for a relaxing spa getaway. The Bodega Spa offers spa services including body treatments, massages and facials. The Duck Club Restaurant offers features California contemporary cuisine accompanied by relaxing ocean views. The menu changes seasonally to highlight the fresh local ingredients, seafood and the finest Sonoma County wines. AAA Four Diamond Resort. 888-875-3525.

Stevenswood Spa Resort, Little River. This resort is located on the Northern California Mendocino Coast, The Inn is nestled in a forest by the sea. Luxurious amenities include fine Egyptian cotton bed linens, European down comforters, Imported Hermes amenities, Venetian Glass bowl vanities, Tempurpedic premium sleep system, Italian Espresso Machines, Business center, Free wireless Internet, wood burning fireplaces, mineral whirlpools, ocean view decks, reading library, complimentary limo transportation and more. Indigo Spa promotes well being with state of the art pampering, relaxation and rejuvenation. The spa uses botanical and natural ingredients. The Spa menu offers massages, body treatments and facials. Dine at the Restaurant at Stevenswood, which has an intimate dining room with a fireplace. AAA Four Diamond. 800-421-2810.

Stanford Inn by the Sea and Spa. This Bed and Breakfast Inn offers views of the ocean and the Village of Mendocino. Guest rooms feature wood burning fireplaces. Inn amenities include swimming pool, hot tub, "organic" bread, pet-friendly rooms and grounds, working organic farm and organic dining. There are gentle creatures including llamas and horses on the property. Massage in the Forest Spa services feature massage, body work, facials, Ayurvedic treatments and yoga classes. Dine at Ravens Restaurant featuring regional organic produce. The wine list if comprised mainly of wines from certified organic vineyards or vineyards using sustainable farming practices. AAA Four Diamond. 888-331-8884.

Information subject to change. Contact the inns for further information and to make reservations.

By Christine Bude Nyholm

About Author
With nearly 3 million pages view Christine is one of the top 100 AC Contributors and Won Best of AC for Winter Travel Guides in 2008 and Best of Alternative Health in 2009. Christine's article Shop Around for Prescriptions was featured on CBS Early Morning News. She recently was invited to the Red Carpet Premiere for the Jackson: A Family Dynasty on A&E.

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The Weight Loss Spa Vacations to Lose Those Excess Pounds

Wouldn't it be nice if you could lose those last ten pounds while enjoying a mini-vacation in a spa like environment? Weight loss spas that promise to help make the task of weight loss easier and more pleasant have sprung up across the country. Here are some of the best weight loss spa vacations:

Weight loss spa vacations: Hilton Head Institute

The little island of Hilton Head off the coast of South Carolina offers a healthy weight loss boot camp in a luxurious, retreat setting. Based on sound principles of weight loss and healthy living, each participant learns the principles of lifestyle management, education, and lifetime nutrition. Meetings with a lifestyle coach give each attendee an opportunity to define their weight loss goals as well as choose specific educational tools to meet their needs. Classes include Pilates, kickboxing, beach walks, dance classes, strength training, yoga, and even healthy cooking classes. Plus, there are lots of amenities such as massage and body treatments to promote relaxation. Best of all the average guest who stays for two weeks loses anywhere from seven to fourteen pounds while relaxing on the beautiful resort island of Hilton Head.

Weight loss spa vacations: The Pritikin Longevity Center

This healthy weight loss plan is based on sound medical principles. Upon arriving, you'll undergo a complete physical including blood work and a cardiac stress test. You'll have access to consultation with a variety of specialists in their fields including top notch nutritionists and exercise counselors. All of this taking place in a resort like, tropical paradise in Adventura, Florida. While at the center, you'll participate in classes which emphasize the three essential components of a successful exercise program, aerobic, flexibility, and strength training. You'll then enjoy the bountiful, yet nutritious food offerings that are chef quality creations without all the calories found in most spa food. There's plenty of pampering including massages and specialized skin care treatments such as chemical peels and Botox injections. It's a program for rejuvenation of both skin and body.

Weight loss spa vacations: Cooper Aerobics Center

This spa experience is based on the teachings of Kenneth Cooper, M.D, the father of aerobics. During this six day experience, you'll start with a complete fitness evaluation and will have a customized workout designed to meet your needs. In addition to any one of almost eighty exercise classes, you'll be treated to gourmet, heart healthy meals and luxury spa services such as massage, stone therapy, and facials. A variety of educational courses are offered where you'll learn everything from relaxation techniques to how to eat healthy. You'll emerge from your vacation refreshed and eager to continue your new healthy lifestyle when you return home.

If you're looking for a fun way to lose weight and develop better eating and exercise habits, a weight loss spa vacation may be just what the doctor ordered.

By Kristie Leong M.D.

About Author
I'm a family physician with a strong interest in disease prevention and alternative medicine. I'm particularly interested in how diet plays a role in disease prevention.

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Take Your Spa Vacation

Spa vacations are resort-style holidays designed to spoil your body and make you feel like a million dollars. Their aim is to release you from all your day-to-day stress and stressors. Spas accomplish this by pampering you with massages, facials, healthy cuisine, masks, soaks, and saunas. You will leave your spa relax holiday feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Spas can teach you methods to relax once you leave, like yoga or meditation.

Not everyone wants to overindulge in rich food and alcohol on his or her holiday. Although holidays often cater to the most decadent travelers, there is an option for those who need to be pampered but don't need to pig out or incur more stress than they deserve by overindulging. If you need a holiday that is truly relaxing, and will make you feel lovely about yourself afterward, then consider a spa holiday.

These lessons will stay with you and permit you to conquer stress once you're back in your home environment. You can learn how to bring your spa environment back with you. You will also encounter nutritionists, therapists, personal trainers, and other spa personnel who will teach you how to live your best, most healthy life even when you're not paying for it in their facilities. However, chances are you will become addicted to the spa experience and need to come back at least once a year to get away from it all. You won't need to trade in how lovely you feel when your spa holiday is over for the former way you took your holidays, when you returned feeling stressed and bloated from all the traveling and overindulgence.

Spas can be devoted to lots of different types of relaxation. These specialty spas vary a lot in price and location. You can visit an opulent spa that costs thousands of dollars a day, or a budget spa that pampers you without all the extras. Spas can be in the middle of the desert or on a tropical beach. they can be in your hometown or lots of hours away on a plane. If you need to travel with your relatives, but still need a spa holiday, lots of hotels in big cities now offer their own versions of spas. You can get spoiled with massages while your babies play in the hotel pool.

Some spas have more specific objectives than relaxing you. there's lots of spas devoted to helping their guests lose weight. These spas can feel like prisons for a while if you're addicted to sugar and alcohol, but your body will thank you later. These spas detoxify your body and encourage you to exercise and drink lots of water. Meanwhile they distract you from your hungry stomach by making sure you experience long baths, full-body massages, and other luxuries.

A spa holiday can be enjoyed alone, or with your best friend, brother, or brother. Spas are excellent places to bond while you get treated like a queen or king. You will return home feeling beautiful, slim, strong, and ready to face the rat race again.

By James Douglas

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Is a Spa Vacation in Your Future?

People take vacations for many reasons. However, the one underlying reason is to relax from the stresses of everyday life. People want to recharge their batteries before they return to their everyday lives and jobs. One great way to do this is by taking a spa vacation.

There are individuals that have never been to a Spa in their lives. Once you go to a Spa, you will probably want to go again. There are all types of luxurious Spas. Some Spas are set up for an hourly appointment and some are for an entire week. There are different Spa experiences for each person. It doesn't matter what your present economic situation is. Many people use to think that Spas were just for the affluent. They were the only ones who could afford them.

Some individuals look at a Spa for health reasons, some for luxury, and some for a macro body juice experience. A spa vacation is a great way to have all parts of your body worked on. You can get everything from facials and body rubdowns to just relaxing with a glass of wine in a hot tub.

Usually when you check into Spa, you do so early. You can have a beverage, talk with the specialists are the other patrons, and simply relax and de-stress from the rigors of the day.

There is a set of etiquette to be followed at a Spa. Cellphones and pagers are to be turned off. Only the client is permitted into the service room. This is to guard privacy. Advance reservations are usually required. Most Spas will provide slippers, towels, and fresh linens to the customers.

Many of the Spas will use natural and organic materials for the body. Many of these are used to treat and soften the skin. They can also have a deepening affect on sore muscles.

A gratuity of 18 percent is usually the standard at most Spas. Some will figure in the gratuity for you. However, if you are happy with the service, there is no rule against tipping higher.

A Spa Vacation

Just think, you select place to go. You make reservations. You check in and are taken to a luxurious room. You are welcomed with fresh fruit, various cheeses and crackers, and a bottle of wine or champagne. You relax a little and then enjoy a delicious meal. After you have digested your meal, you then receive a facial or a Beach Plum Body Scrub. There are other amenities as well. There are Sauna's, Hot Tubs, Whirlpools, Pedicures, and Swimming. Then you get to do it over again the nest day.

Some couples, will schedule a few rounds of golf or a few games of Tennis at or near the Spa, before returning to the Spa itself.

You can schedule a day, weekend, or even a full week at a Spa. Some couples will travel from one Spa to another. Although many Spas offer the same things, many differ in many ways. If you have never been to a Spa, it might be time to give it a try. It is especially meaningful, if you can share it with your better half.

By Carl Benjamin

About Author
Just an average Joe living in the Midwest. I am a retired High School teacher/coach. I work part time for a small college.

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Top 5 Spa Vacation Destinations in the Caribbean

Caribbean is full of many excellent resorts and spas which offer great services. Out of them five of the best spa vacation locations are discussed below-

1. Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa- The best spa location in the Caribbean according to me. Most of the Caribbean people like this resort which offers excellent services with a range of prices for budget conscious people. It is located in St. Lucia's south coast. It is worth paying a visit to this place. There are varieties of food options for the visitors.

2. Breezes Curacao Resort Spa & Casino- It is the second best spa location in the Caribbean. It is the first super-inclusive resort in the southern Caribbean. Guests especially enjoy the Dutch flavor which is very prominent here. The food quality is quite good and there are different packages for accommodations. It offers a range of services and good quality thermal spas. The spas make this location very popular among the visitors from across the globe.

3. Beaches Negril Resort & Spa- It is located in the St. Ann Mountains. It offers good services with a range of prices. It has excellent food quality with a variety of food options. Most of the time it is well booked as the visitors come here through out the year. It is not for budget minded people as it is very expensive. But it compensates the pricing with excellent services and hospitality.

4. Franklyn D. Resort and Spa- Located in Jamaica, it is known for its warm welcome of the guests. It provides excellent food with a range of accommodations. The Spas also help in the treatment of the joint pains. The food quality is quite manageable but when it comes to budget, this is the best spa vacation location in the whole of the Caribbean. Budget minded people prefer this location apart from the above mentioned three destinations.

5. Beaches Turks & Caicos- Last but not least Beaches Turks & Caicos is another very popular spa vacation destination in the Caribbean. But the main problem of it is that it doesn't offer different accommodation options. But apart from that it is a very beautiful and soothing spa location to visit with excellent food quality and restaurant. It offers a range of services which the people like very much. The pricing of the location is on a higher side. So budget minded people may have a problem here if they are not willing to spend some money. But all in all this is a very good spa vacation location.

These are the top five spa vacation locations in the Caribbean in which thousand of people from around the world visit every year.

By John Watson

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Las Vegas Vacation - Your Guide to the Best Vegas Spas

Oh, the lure of the Las Vegas spa on your next Las Vegas vacation! Las Vegas is known throughout the world for its lavishness, and this spills over to the spa experience that you can plan on if you are staying in a hotel with a spa. You can expect to be pampered to the hilt, buffed, waxed, and comforted like nowhere else on earth. You don't have to look too far in order to find a mega resort that features a full spa and health complex on the property and many will also have a salon and fitness center to boot. While there are dozens of top spas in Las Vegas, these are the crème de la crème of them all - and each one has something unique to offer.

The Oasis Spa is located in the luxurious Luxor Hotel, and has been known to be frequented by celebrities from time to time. This spa is open twenty-four hours a day and offer treatments that draw inspiration from Ancient Egypt. Try their divine aloe and herbal wraps and sea salt exfoliation to feel like Cleopatra floating on the Nile. You might also consider the Oasis' fifty-minute dead see mud masque facial and other facials, body cleansers, full body wraps, and sensuous and rejuvenating personal massages. Book your treatment in advance or just walk in and be pampered to the nines.

The Bellagio Hotel's signature spa, Spa Bellagio, is heaven on earth located in the beautiful Conservatory and Botanical gardens where you can be pampered and polished while being surrounded by Mother Nature. Spa Bellagio offers an array of spa treatments, including body treatments, massage therapies, facials and Vichy showers. You may find that after a hard day of rolling the dice that coming "home" to Spa Bellagio is just what the doctor ordered.

MGM Grand will not be outdone by anyone - and that includes their spa, the Grand Spa and Fitness Center, which is truly grand - and spans more than 30,000 square feet, offers thirty treatment rooms, relaxations lounges, whirlpools, saunas and steam rooms. There are also some to-die-for signature treatments at the Grand Spa and Fitness Center, like the Milk and Honey Body Treatment and AHA Facial. You'll find some of the greatest masseuses in the city offering personal massages at the Grand Spa - certain to become a fond memory of your Vegas trip.

Enjoy Balinese-style pampering and treatments at the Spa by Mandara, located in the Paris Las Vegas Hotel. This 25,000 square foot facility houses twenty-four treatment rooms outfitted with handcrafted Balinese hardwood tables for massage, and artwork from around the globe. You'll find every imaginable treatment offered at the Spa by Mandara, including wraps and facials, and the spa is also home to a fitness center, salon, and specialty boutique.

Another great spa that you might consider trying out during your Las Vegas vacation is the spa located at New York, New York, Las Vegas. This world class spa offers a women's and men's steam room, fitness center, whirlpool, hydrotherapy tubs, aromatherapy massage, sea salts body scrub, clay body masks, full body wraps and much, much more. You'll find the utmost in comfort and pampering at the New York, New York.

Don't overlook the exquisite comforts offered at the Spa and Beauty Salon located in the Golden Nugget. You'll find a big number of relaxing treatments, offerings for both men and women; massage rooms, tanning room, whirlpool spa, Swedish shower, and a eucalyptus steam room. The salon offers hair care, manicures, pedicures, and facials.

And saving that ultimate spa experience for last - Venus the Salon, located at Caesar's Palace, and the Spa at Caesars Palace are both top of the line spas where you relax while enjoying a full body massage, therapeutic scalp treatment, facial, and more. The spa offers a magnificent view of the Garden of the Gods pool area at Caesar's and also offers manicures, pedicures, waxing, and haircuts.

No matter which spa you choose, be sure to indulge yourself with at least one trip to one of the posh Vegas spas on your Las Vegas vacation.

By Moses Kettle

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Weight Loss Spa in Florida

A weight loss spa may be the perfect answer to your health and fitness needs while you stay in sunny Florida. These Florida spas offer facilities, as well as programs and services that promise long-term weight loss results.

Weight management

Spas in Florida have different ways of weight loss management, When choosing a Florida weight loss spa, carefully examine their programs and services. There are spas that offer natural as well as therapeutic treatments. There are also those that advertise quick-fix weight loss solutions. Never settle for those advertising dubious claims for they may not provide the treatment you wish to have.

Different approaches

Always choose a weight loss spa in Florida that matches your needs and preferences. Do you want a spa that offers vegetarian cuisine? How about new age practices like pilates and yoga? Evaluate the programs, services, and facilities of these weight loss spas so that you can decide the right one for you.

Weight loss spas provide you a personal health or fitness professional. They will guide as you go on with the program and they will make sure that you satisfy your objectives. There will be regular monitoring to track your progress. This will give you an idea about how well you are doing.

Spa vacation

A weight loss spa is a healthy environment for those people who seriously want to shed pounds. People will break away from their unhealthy habits. They will be introduced to dietary changes and exercise routines. They will only focus on those that would bring benefits to their physical and mental health.

Weight loss spas do not only offer programs concerning weight loss problems. They also provide natural treatments and healthy remedies. Certainly, a weight loss spa vacation is an opportunity for relaxation, rejuvenation, and detoxifixation.

By Phillip England

About Author
Phillip England is a weight loss expert and Author of the popular report "The Ultimate Weight Loss Secret". To receive your free information on the secret that doctors, and health companies either don't know, or don't want you to know, please see http://www.theultimateweightlosssecret.com/secret

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Florida Spa Vacation Resorts to Try

Florida spas tend to get busy during the winter months as people try to escape the chilly weather of their home and ease away holiday stress, so if you want to take a spa vacation in Florida, be sure to book early to give yourself a much better chance at getting what you want. During the summer months rates on spa vacations in this balmy state tend to drop; the thought of spending time in saunas and warm spas becoming unappealing to many with the already muggy weather.

Florida, one of the vacation capital of the world, is one of the most exciting locations in the world to have a treatment; if you ever had an urge to splurge on a spa, this would be the place to do it. Florida is one of the premier destinations for those looking for a variety of spa treatments. A trip to the spa is a common travel activity enjoyed by all vacationers who need to be "pampered" at least for a day.

Florida has some of the best spas in North America. Visits to the spa seem to be on the agenda of almost every visitor to this sunshine city, and for a reason. Like the hotels that host them, the spas within these establishments offer an excellent ambiance and an unforgettable experience.

Ritz-Carlton, Naples

This resort spa is located on Florida's southwest coast and offers a range of activities with heated swimming pools, lit tennis courts, a fitness center, and a spa complex spanning over 50,000 square feet. A Florida spa vacation destination that pampers its guests all day, this Old World-style resort is surrounded by three miles of pristine beaches and manicured gardens, as well as stone fountains and courtyards. Tours of the art collections and antiques in the lobby are provided by the concierge staff upon request and guests can choose from a number of signature treatments, including the Feast of Flowers Soaking Bath Ritual.

For those looking for a small break from the indulgent relaxation of the spa and its activities, downtown Naples is no more than 30 minutes away by car, and presents a number of shopping and dining locations. This Florida spa vacation spot is home to at least seven restaurants itself, each containing an exceptional variety of dishes to try.

Doral Golf Resort and Spa

The Health Spa at Doral offers fitness services, facial skin care, body treatments, hydro treatments, as well as massage therapy and over 100 other services. For the feel of a vacation at this Florida spa you can let the warm sun melt the stress away as you lounge by the pool, or try your hand at one of the five golf courses on site with lessons offered regularly.

Tennis is another popular activity, and can be enjoyed day or night on one of the 11 courts available and if you opt to book your Florida spa vacation here in suite you'll be treated to your own personal wet bar, entertainment system and Jacuzzi for further relaxation at any hour. Outside of the spa you'll find South Beach is nearby and the nightclubs stay open all night, so if you need to work off some extra energy the bubbling Jacuzzi couldn't lull away, feel free to dance until dawn.

Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne

Almost two dozen treatment rooms are scattered along this 20 thousand square-foot Florida spa vacation resort that offers treatments unique to the Ritz-Carlton of Key Biscayne such as the Everglades Grass Body Wrap and the Key Lime Coconut Body Scrub. Daily fitness classes such as Tai Chi, Pilates and Hatha Yoga are available for guests to participate in, or you can choose to head out to the Tennis Garden, designed by resident pro, Cliff Drysdale.

While you unwind with one of the several activities available to you during this Florida spa vacation your little ones can spend a half or full day out on events organized by trained staff members such as pirate treasure hunts, shell finding, and art classes. There are many more Florida spa vacation options available, but these should provide a decent starter base to work from as you hunt for that perfect relaxing getaway.

By Darlene Berkel

About Author
Visit http://honeymoon.every1loves2travel.com and start planning your honeymoon getaway today. We also recommend http://www.on-a-cruise.com to find out how to cruise around the world the fun way.

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