Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain

written by melissa b. williams

Situated with picturesque views of both Paradise Valley and the legendary Camelback Mountain, the Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain offers guests a unique blend of desert elegance and Zen living.

Environment
The Asian-inspired property instantly calms the senses (and cools the body) from the moment you walk into the reception area. After checking in, head to the Jade Bar for a cocktail. Then gaze out the floor-to-ceiling windows, which offer sweeping views of the Paradise Valley. For dinner, head to Elements, Sanctuary’s signature restaurant, and request a table on the veranda. Read more

The Findbliss Guide to Spa Etiquette

written by kyle roderick

We all know that the best spas are designed for people to find bliss and rejuvenation (or maybe just a fab pedicure). But spas can also be intimate theatres of human behavior, where therapists, technicians and certain types of equipment have the power to heal you, hurt you, or leave you otherwise disappointed. After a decade of reporting on spas for such magazines as InStyle, Spa magazine and Healing Lifestyles & Spas, I’ve formulated several do’s and don’ts for ensuring the best possible spa visit. Read more

The Family Spa Vacation

written by kyle roderick

Puzzling over where to take your family on vacation? Why not combine traveling with a sojourn in a spa that caters especially to families seeking bliss and balance? The family-friendly spa options listed below offer deep renewal, diverse activities and therapeutic treatments that can nurture and bond family members. Should you decide to go ahead and schedule a trip at one of these properties, be sure to book spa treatments well in advance of your visit. Read more

Spa Director Karen Shawn

spa director - karen shawn
Name of current spa: Miraval Life In Balance
What year you started there: 2006
Previous experience that you want to share:
I’ve been working in the health and wellness industry for over 20 years. For the past seven years, I’ve been employed by three top hotel companies internationally - in Africa, the Middle East and the Caribbean. This incredible experience has given me an amazing insight into what it is like to work with different cultures in diverse environments. My specialty is in opening new spas; five so far! Read more

santa fe spa guide

written by kyle roderick

Along with its soothing Southwestern vibe, pinon-scented pure air and rugged mountain views, Santa Fe, New Mexico is also a spa-goer’s paradise. Featuring top-of-the-line day and destination spas to satisfy all tastes and budgets, Santa Fe is a superb spot for a spa vacation. Because of its high altitude, however, definitely allow a day or two for your body to acclimate before jumping into a Jacuzzi or going for a sauna. Here is an overview of our favorites places to spa in this gem of a resort town: Read more

Iceland Spas

written by kyle roderick

iceland spas: geo-thermal gourmet bathing
Steaming with pristine geothermal pools in snowy landscapes under azure blue skies, Iceland is arguably the only country on earth that qualifies as one giant spa. Where else in the world can you relax year-round in natural geothermal lagoons surrounded by lava fields and black sandy beaches watching marine birds winging their way out to sea? For the gourmet spa bather, Iceland is especially enchanting given that it’s situated in the empire of the midnight sun. The country’s extreme northern location means that it’s possible to bask in the geothermal lagoons from 9 a.m. until midnight. This is a privileged experience for anyone, but for spa addicts, Iceland is Nirvana. Read more

Exhale Spa

written by kyle roderick

Environment
When in need of a serious dose of serenity, sometimes a honed spa, ironed of all the kinks and inconsistencies, is the most efficient mode to attain tranquility. One of the most perfected day spas has finally descended upon this frenetic “city of angels.” Los Angeles has been holding its breath awaiting the opening of one of New York’s hottest spas; Exhale (there are also locations in Boston, Chicago, and soon opening in Dallas). The 15,000-square-foot center for mind and body wellness features core fusion and yoga classes in addition to a full-service spa. Read more

Estonian Ecstasy

With its venerable spa culture, advantageous exchange rate; clean, green cities and countryside, Estonia offers superb spa vacations at bargain prices. From this Baltic country’s traditional and postmodern spas in the seaport capital of Tallinn to tiny islands and their innovative spas, Estonia offers the best spa value for money in the Baltics/Northern European region. Read more

El Monte Sagrado

written by kyle roderick

a sustainable eco-spa for deep healing self and our planet
If you’ve ever tried to find a refuge that nurtures the human as well as planetary environment, El Monte Sagrado Living Resort & Spa in Taos, New Mexico (www.elmontesagrado.com) is the nexus for highly specialized, environmentally friendly and deeply bliss-inducing spa care. As the world’s only ecologically sustainable luxury resort and spa, El Monte Sagrado is green, clean and organic in style and substance. Accordingly, El Monte offers life-changing and rare treatments that are unique to the world. Read more

Bathing Beauty

Enjoying a leisurely soak is not only good for your body, it rejuvenates your spirit.

Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and watch as the tension in your muscles begins to disappear. The stresses and worries of your day slowly fade as you surrender to the warm waters supporting you. Your breath begins to deepen, while your heart rate resumes its natural, healthy pace, not the frenetic pace of the day, but the calm, quiet pace of the evening. No, you’re not at a spa or enjoying a watsu treatment, you’re in the comforts of your own home, indulging in the health benefits of a long, leisurely soak. Read more