I remember the quiet evenings to myself before I became a mom. They seem like such a faint memory now, but those were the times when I focused on taking care of myself. I’d grab a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon, get out my arsenal of pampering products and hit the reset button.
Spa days can seem like an indulgence, but they’re actually an effective way to protect your physical, mental and emotional health. A few hours of relaxation can make you feel like a whole new person. When you’re always taking care of everything else it’s nice to have a few aestheticians take care of you.
There’s a good chance you know a few other women who could benefit from a luxurious weekend spa getaway. It may be hard to find a few free days, but taking a mini-vacation with the girls where you can relax and fully immerse yourself in me time will make a world of difference when you get back home.
Scope Out the Resort Selection
If you’re going to invest a nice chunk of change on a spa weekend, why not check out a few options out before making a final decision? Start by giving the business a call. The professionalism and attitude of the customer service representative will give you a good idea of what to expect during your stay.
Pictures can be helpful, but nothing – not even a Google Business View tour – can compare to seeing things in person. If you have the time, stop by a few of your top picks to check out the facility. General cleanliness and attractive décor in a comfortable setting are a must since the whole point is to relax. If possible get a closer look at the products they use and their tools. High-quality massage chairs and top-rated skin care products are a very good sign.
Consider the Service Menu
Beyond the quality of the resort as a whole, the next most important consideration is what you’ll find on the spa service menu. Most spas offer a variety of skin enhancement services, but if you’re splurging on a weekend getaway you might as well get the head-to-toe treatment.
Some of the most popular weekend spa packages include:
- · Body massage
- · Body scrub
- · Body wraps
- · Scalp massage and treatment
- · Custom facial
- · Manicure
- · Pedicure
- · Waxing
Want to go a little deeper than the skin’s surface? Botox and dermal fillers have become regular services in many high-end spas. If you’re interested in these services, it’s always important to ask who performs the injections. For the best results, injections should be done by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon.
Services Beyond the Spa
Weekend spa retreats are offered at resorts around the country. Some resorts are exclusive boutiques while others are sprawling properties with every amenity imaginable. When all things are equal the amenities can help you decide where to stay. For a relaxing spa weekend consider complimentary extras like:
Gym – Exercise is a great stress reliever. Bonus if the resort offers group yoga classes.
Nutrition Center – Staying healthy largely depends on whether you are getting the right nutrition.
Salon – Haircut, highlights and blow outs are definitely a part of any glam spa getaway.
Pool – Nothing beckons you to relax more than a glistening pool. Bring that book you’ve been meaning to read to last two years for a leisurely day in the cabana.
Restaurants – After all that pampering you’re sure to be hungry. Resorts with 5-star restaurants continue the luxurious experience with a meal that’s worth every penny.
Entertainment – At the end of the day you and your girlfriends can enjoy each other’s company at a resort lounge or show before calling it a night.
Keep It Within a 3-Hour Drive
Getting to the spa and returning home is a part of the trip that can either add to the fun or be a boring mood buster. Most of the time it all comes down to duration. The majority of people can handle a two-hour ride fine. Once the drive goes beyond three hours the question “Are we there yet?” comes to mind repeatedly.
If you’ve got your heart set on a spa that’s a little further away be on the look out for cheap flights. Travelers with a flexible schedule can take advantage of flash sales from airlines like JetBlue and Southwest. It’s not uncommon to find in-state flights for as little as $39 each way.