Are you thinking about a fall or early winter retreat? Maybe you want a kickstart to a healthier you? There has never been a better time to consider a spa vacation.

Miraval - Reduced rates for travel by Jan. 31, 2009 (some blackouts & other restrictions may apply).
Call me or complete the quote information on the home page for more details.

Canyon Ranch - If you’re flexible with your travel dates, it could mean a 50% savings!
Travel between Dec. 11 - 23 or Jan. 2 - 6 for the best rates.

Red Mountain Spa - rates have been reduced through the rest of the year and start at
$209 per person per night (double occupancy) and higher for single occupancy.
Spa Special - they’ve also extended their $69 Swedish Massage (50-minutes).

If you’ve been thinking about a spa vacation and haven’t gone because of the rate, now is the
time to go because of the rate. Call me…e-mail…..and take the next step for a healthier and
more relaxed you!

I started thinking about this earlier today and thought it was a good time as any to put it out there. I often receive calls from people who think they’re calling the spa directly and after letting them know that that I’m not geographically at the spa, they either decide to continue or choose to call the spa anyway. I just wanted to review a few reasons why I would love to talk to you and be your ‘go to’ person for everything spa! The reason I call myself an expert is because I have been to the locations on my site. I know them well, which also means I know of the promotions going on and the latest dish (yes, I would like my own TV show about Spas someday). I have been involved in the spa industry for over 15 years (with over 25 years in travel). I write about spas, I talk about spas, I visit spas, I enjoy spas, my house is even spa-like. Anyway, I thought I would go over a few of the benefits to speaking with me about your spa vacation (or about the spa lifestyle!).

1. Going direct vs. going with me: Speaking directly with the spa is great….I consider them friends since we’ve been working together for so long. However, I don’t charge a fee for my spa and travel experience (over 25 years and still going strong) and I always seek out the best option (I usually ask several questions so I can find the best option for your needs) and there are times where I may have something even better. My goal is to assist you either way….as the rate isn’t going to be any less if you go direct. Also, if the rate is more than your budget I can guide you to another option or if you have specific needs we can discuss which option is best for you as well. I realize we have a lot of ‘online’ resources, however I’ve been there and this is my life - my goal is to work with others in creating a healthier lifestlye and to help find the tools to create the life they want. I love travel and spas and have the tools, expertise and contacts to assist you. (Note: In some cases the spa advisors will contact you regarding your spa services or you will have the opportunity to speak with them directly when you’re ready to pre-book your services.)

My goal is to be sure you know there are locations out there that can help you reach your goals and then find the best value for your dates and I always love to reconnect when my clients return - it’s so rewarding to hear about your positive outcomes.

2. Last Minute vs. Booking Early: Yes, sometimes there are last minute promotions, however more often than not space is a challenge or spa service times are limited and you could end up with a relaxing 10a massage instead of the 8p time you prefer so you can have a more restful sleep. Booking early assures you more time to set up what you prefer to do on your spa adventure and if another promotion comes out then we can look over the best option and adjust if necessary. Also, this is your health and well being, so invest in the time to plan what you need to enjoy a healthier lifestyle. And the best part is that most of the spas only require a 2-night deposit with the balance due when you leave.

3. Off peak vs. peak: The hotter it is the cooler the cost! So is the case with some of the top destination spas in the country, which happen to be located in the southwest. The rates go down in the summer while the rates in the north/northeast go up in the summer. It all stands to reason that weather does play a part in vacation costs, we know that. However, what if you could save nearly 50% and go to the spa of your dreams? I would say it’s worth looking into…..it’s when I do most of my traveling. I love the sultry nights of summer in the southwest and sipping a cool mango iced tea under the shade of palm trees. Fitness classes such as Pilates, Yoga and cardio are inside. You can cool off in the refreshing pool (usually under misters). The spa is indoors (except for a couple of outdoor treatment rooms) and you have the option of indoor or outdoor dining. If you want to hike, jog, walk, bike or enjoy other outdoor activities you’ll want to get out in the early morning or early evening. Also, midweek vs weekend at some resorts offer lower rates.

4. Friends and Family: Have you thought about traveling with other friends or your family (you can get your own room if you don’t want to share with Aunt Edna from Edison), however if you have always wanted to go to a spa to kickoff a healthier lifestyle or reconnect with old friends and family, a spa vacation may be the answer and when you go with 8 or more you’ll save a bundle (sometimes if 5 or 6 go I can offer a savings). And, you can all do your own thing and reconnect at meal time to discuss the highlights of your day.

5. Loyalty: Some locations offer return guest promotions and I never forget a client so I’m always happy to hear from those of you who call me annually (or more often) and enjoy offering you value-added benefits when I can.

6. Airfare: Airfare isn’t included in any of the spa vacations and is purchased separately. However, if you need assistance searching for the best fare and flights all you have to do is let me know and I’ll take a look for you and won’t charge you any fees (airlines don’t pay a commission, however I’d be happy to assist you if needed).

7. Getting to the Spa: Transfers are included in the cost at most of the destination spas, however there are some where the distance is further and therefore transfers are not included. Don’t despair - I know who to call and can assist you with that as well. Since I know the locations as well as the spas, I can give you other options to make your traveling as stress free as possible.

8. Flexibility: If you’re flexible with your dates and room accommodation choices then chances are that you may be able to save even more.

9. Budget: If you have a budget in mind, share it with me and I can let you know which destination spas can meet your budget and the goals you have in mind for your spa journey.

10. Tax, service, oh my: Keep in mind that you may see a special rate on the spa’s website and then when you get the total you’ll wonder “what happened to that $399 per night rate and why are you higher” - well, the answer is that I’m not higher…..I present the rate with the tax & service in the total so that you know the bottom line and then I include a note that the rate is based on the $399 (example) promotion PLUS the % for tax/service. In some cases the combination of tax/service is nearly 30% so please review all information before making a decision. And, to keep it positive, that means that there is no tipping while you’re at the spa (exception would be the spas that don’t pre-collect a service fee).

I hope you found this helpful and I look forward to assisting you with creating a healthier lifestyle and the life of your dreams! - Donna

Are you scratching your head wondering what the title of this blog means? A little quirky, I know, however now is the time to take advantage of some great Spa Opportunities. I prefer to keep my blogs positive, however I do have to say that we’re all under more stress than usual and we must find a release for what we’re feeling and sometimes it’s best to get away from our daily surroundings so that we can find clarity and gain perspective on the very situations causing us stress. I realize that going away doesn’t mean you’ll come back to a stress-free life, however dedicating time to yourself to nourish your body (reads limit ’stress-eating’) and getting more fitness in each day (going up and down the stairs doesn’t equal cardio) and renewing your spirit (and I don’t mean having a drink after work)…sometimes it means going to a spa…..which I refer to as the ‘antidote to stress’ and now you can keep some ‘green’ in your pocket as well. I’ve included an option below that you’ll want to consider. If you’re interested, call me or e-mail me and I will give you more details. It is an amazing opportunity and I look forward to hearing from you.

With savings up to 50%, now is the time to take that healthy spa vacation you’ve been thinking about! Kick off the new year with a new you and keep money in your pocket! If one of these options is of interest call now for more details as space is limited!

Contact me directly at 1-800-532-5590 or donna@spa-vacation-experts.com
Talk to you soon - Donna

HOT Spa Deal
. December 11 - 15, 2008
. 4-Night All-inclusive Package
. Double Occupancy Rate: $1860 per person (normally $3770 pp)
. Single Occupancy Rate: $2430 (normally $4600)

-OR-
. January 2 - 6, 2009
. 4-Night All-inclusive Package
. Double Occupancy Rate: $1900 per person (normally $3770 pp)
. Single Occupancy Rate: $2450 (normally $4600)

Your Package includes:
. Accommodations for desired number of nights
. Three gourmet meals daily
. Use of fitness facilities, activities and evening programs
. Airport ground transfers to and from Tucson Airport
. Service charge, tax and gratuities
. A variety of spa and wellness services
. Spa Allowance of $450 per person

NOTE: Additional nights can be added pre- or post- the above nights - call for details.

If there was ever a good time to consider a getaway, this is it! With so much going on it is important that we take some time to step back from the news and the updates and information overload. It reminds me of going through a maze and if we could take a view from a little higher up we would be able to find the path of least resistance. So, with that said, if you’re in a leadership role, or in the midst of some of this chaos perhaps a getaway, even 3-4 days can help you find perspective, clarity and serenity to move forward and make decisions that will be beneficial vs reactive.

There are many spas that are offering fall promotions and rather than figure it all out on your own, you’re just a call away from getting some assistance … and a friendly voice as well! Remember, ’spa’ is more than a massage and facial, it’s a lifestyle and a committment to better health…..nutrition, fitness, stress management and all of these will help you gain greater perspective in a calming and positive atmosphere.

UPDATES:
Canyon Ranch has announced a new benefit for anyone flying into Phoenix airport (so much easier for my east coast friends) and this is valid with a 7-night stay. And, if you’re on the east coast and
just need to go sooner than later and have 2-3 nights, than Lenox would be the best option.

Miraval is offering Fall promotional rates as is Red Mountain Spa. There are options available that will save money and give you the respite you may want or need. If you prefer a 7-night getaway at Rancho la Puerta in Tecate, Mexico - we can look at some fall promotions I’m offering for there as well.

Until next time…………….breathe deeply and take some time to relax. - Donna

Greetings!

For those of you who follow some of the travel and spa magazines you may have seen that Rancho la Puerta (Tecate, Mexico) was just named the top spa in North America by the readers of Spa Finder.

So in honor of this award I thought I’d include a short review that I did based on my last stay at this resort. Feel free to e-mail me with any questions about Rancho la Puerta.

Rancho la Puerta, Tecate, Mexico - by Donna Mantone-Adinolfi

Rancho la Puerta began in 1940 by Edward and Deborah Szekely and is located south of San Diego, California in Tecate, Mexico. It is the original destination fitness resort and spa and has offered a life changing experience for thousands for over 65 years. Every week, over 100 guests come together to hike, breathe, relax and go beyond their boundaries.

Guests come to know one another, share experiences and enjoy a week of healthy vegetarian cuisine, physical activity and mindful moments. There are many opportunities to contemplate life including walking in the full size replica of the ancient labyrinth found in Chartres Cathedral in France.  In walking the labyrinth you come upon many turns and just as in life you can’t anticipate where you will turn and where it will lead. Every turn can bring you into a new destination. This truly was a lesson in being in the moment and focusing on each step and breath. Rancho la Puerta offers an abundance of fitness classes, hiking opportunities for the beginner to advanced, cooking demos, lectures and plenty of options for pampering in their health centers. Different people come to the Ranch for different reasons, all of which have meaning. Some come for the fitness opportunities, others to relax and rejuvenate and others for healing. The Ranch has stayed true to its’ core.

Fitness is the basis of a week at the Ranch balanced with relaxation, healthy eating and reflection. There is much that lures guests to Rancho la Puerta including Mount Kuchumaa, which Native Americans consider a sacred place. And it is a sacred place. I’m inspired and transformed from my time at the Ranch.

© Copyright 2006 Donna M. Mantone-Adinolfi - All rights reserved.

With the amazing growth in the spa industry, I thought I’d include an oldie but goodie in today’s blog entry. It’s an article I wrote a while back and it still applies today. Spa is more than lotions and potions and a massage every so often. It’s a lifestyle…it’s about healthy living and encompasses good nutrition, fitness, relaxing sleep and meditation. We are responsible for our well being and being mindful of what we eat, when we move and how well we sleep are all factors in living a healthy lifestyle. You may have heard some of this before, however now is the time to make the changes to improve your life.  I often think to myself, “if not now, when” and so I challenge you to the same. If not now, when? Create the life you want.  It all starts with good health! 

Spa Travel – A Vacation with a Purpose

When you think of spa, you may visualize healing waters and mineral springs. Your thinking would be on target, however nowadays ‘spa’ is much more than that. Consider going to a Day Spa and pampering yourself for a day, add in Yoga or a Pilates class and you’ve done a great job on focusing on yourself and creating a little more balance. Now, consider a few days or a week of fitness classes, pampering spa treatments, stress reduction, healthful spa cuisine and additional opportunities to create a healthier lifestyle. Perhaps a cooking class or nutrition class is appealing or something more challenging like climbing a rock wall or doing something you never thought you’d do. A spa vacation is relaxing, rejuvenating and in many cases a week away could be life changing.

Let’s embark on a journey to discover more about Spa Travel. Relax, pour yourself a cup of green tea and discover a world of possibilities.

Spa 101
Spa Travel is growing and spa-goers are looking for new experiences. Indulge your senses and consider a Spa Vacation. Below you’ll find information to help in your decision process.

Hotel & Resort Spas - these typically include fitness facilities and can sometimes be managed by an outside source or by the resort. Spa visits are typically complemented by use of the resort’s other facilities, such as golf, beach or tennis. Spa cuisine may or may not be offered.

Destination Spa - The key focus is to provide specific health and wellness treatments and facilities. Guests stay for at least several days, sometimes enjoying week-long packages. Spa cuisine is always offered at a destination spa. Some destination spas have their own natural springs which provide mineral, thermal or seawater for hydrotherapy treatments.

Medical Spa - A fast-growing part of the spa business, medical spas (or medi-spas) usually have a medical director supervising treatments that could include cosmetic surgery, dermatology and other “age-slowing” treatments. Typical spa treatments are also usually offered at medical spas. The growing trend is for medical doctors to open medical spas either on the same site as their medical facility, or adjacent to it.

Cruise Ship Spa - Cruise ship spas provide spa and fitness facilities aboard ocean liners. Cruise ships are now also offering spa cuisine in restaurants throughout the vessel.
(Source: International Spa Association)

Now that you have an idea of the different types of spa opportunities, consider what you’d like to do and what area you might like to focus on. Do you want to focus on fitness and perhaps hiking or are you looking for a location to help reduce stress and create a healthy lifestyle. Consider the following:
• Stress Management: Learn how to manage stress and learn new relaxation techniques and ways to put them into practice when you return home. Learn how to create a life in balance.
• Pampering: Indulge in spa treatments from facials to massages to something exotic.
• Fitness, Health & Nutrition: Stretch your body and participate in an array of classes, sports activities and integrate what you learn into your lifestyle. Learn how lifestyle choices can lead you to a path of wellness.
• Spirituality & Enlightenment: Engage in T’ai Chi, Yoga, Meditation and other practices to calm your mind and spark your spirit. All roads lead to self-awareness and tranquility.
Sample schedules are available to review and get ideas on what you can do on your spa vacation. Below is just one idea:

Sample schedule:

7:00AM Morning Walk/Yoga or Meditation
8:00AM Breakfast
9:00AM Hiking or Biking Adventure
10:30AM AntiAging Seminar/or Nutrition Seminar
12:30PM Lunch
1:30PM Pool/Free Time/Yoga or Pilates
3:00PM Spa Treatment – Hot Stone Massage
4:00PM Healthy Cooking Demo/Class
6:00PM Dinner
8:00PM Relax/Evening Program-optional

Okay, so you’ve been going for facials, massages and maybe an exotic treatment once in a while. There’s an abundance of treatments available at spa locations, many are ‘signature’ treatments created by the spa as well as ‘exotic’ treatments that are sure to rev up your senses and bring serenity to your body, mind and spirit. Here are just a few of what you’ll find:

Spa Treatments Glossary

Aromatherapy: An ancient healing art using essential oils from plants, leaves, bark, roots, seeds, resins and flowers. Oils are used to treat emotional disorders, organ dysfunction, and skin problems and are used during massage, facials, body wraps and hydro baths.

Ayurvedic: An ancient system of traditional folk medicine from India using a Variety of techniques to restore balance. Often used in nutrition, herbal medicine, aromatherapy, massage and meditation.

Feldenkrais (Method): A system of bodywork developed by Moshe Feldenkrais that attempts to reprogram the nervous system through movement augmented by physical pressure and manipulation.

Lomi-Lomi: Hawaiian rhythmical, rocking massage.

Salt Glow Treatment: The body is rubbed with a vigorous, abrasive scrub, consisting of coarse salt usually mixed with essential oils and water. It cleanses pores and removes dead skin. It is usually followed by a gentle shower and moisturizer.

Thalassotherapy: An Ancient Greek therapy (thalasso is Greek for sea) – treatments use the therapeutic benefits of the sea, and sea water products for their vitamins, minerals and trace elements, which can heal and reinvigorate skin and hair. (Source: International Spa Association)

Enjoy the Spa Lifestyle!

© Copyright 2006 Donna M. Mantone-Adinolfi and Mindful Adventures. All rights reserved.

Greetings from the southeast! 

With the middle of summer upon us many are either on vacation or still thinking of where to go and what to do before September arrives.  I don’t have children, however when September arrives I often think of going back to school and that mindset of ‘buckling down’ and getting back to focus.  Even though I work just about every day including weekends, summer is a more relaxed time and one that I’d like to extend, at least mindfully. 

If you’re still considering some summer spa time, and by spa, I am referring to the lifestyle…eating healthy, fitness/nature/hiking, and perhaps jumpstarting a healthier lifestyle and getting back to living in the moment.  Of all the seasons, summer is a great time to learn more about living in the present moment.  I hope you’ll find something interesting here.  Enjoy the rest of the summer and (yes, a little self-promoting), if you’re still looking for a spa getaway, call me for some great promotions still being offered…most are in the southwest.  Live mindfully!  Enjoy the spa lifestyle….every day.

Summer Spa Speak…it’s more than just lotions and potions:

#1 - Make an investment in your health:  Stress….we all know what they say about stress.  So, why not consider taking control of your health and consider a spa.  Take time to relax, revitalize and rejuvenate and spend time at the spa.  Spas offer an opportunity to make changes in eating habits and take advantage of nutritional information and consultations.  They offer a plethora of fitness classes and a chance to try something different.  And, of course, enjoy spa services such as a Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Facials, Reflexology, Acupuncture and a wide variety of services that help with relaxation and so much more.

There are more than 14,000 spas in the U.S. - consider taking a few days to immerse yourself into the spa lifestyle and if you only have one day off, make it a day at the spa.  You’ll return home feeling better than ever. 

#2 - Gal Pal Power:  If you’re like me, you don’t see your friends very often……between work and their family obligations, there is little time for some girllfriend time so perhaps it would be a good idea to combine two important events in one…….time with your friends and some relaxation time.  A few hours can be life changing especially if you’re on your own most of the time and just need to be with your friends….the ones who know you best and offer a support system.    Whether you’re a spa pro or someone who has never been before, surely one of your friends knows a spa to consider and can plan the afternoon or day.  Relax and reconnect with your friends…..and yourself.

#3 - Things to know before you go:

*  Do some research - check on a few spas and get their menu of services.   Which one has what you’re looking for and if you’re going with a few friends, check the schedule to be sure you can get appointment times together.

* Express yourself - be sure you mention your preference for a male or female therapist.  Ask questions, it’s okay and best to go into your service without apprehension. 

* Time to relax - Sometimes we do bring on our own stress by not allowing enough time…..so, be sure to arrive at least 30-minutes prior to your service and take advantage of the amenities at the spa, even if it’s sitting quietly going through a magazine and drinking a cup of green tea.  You will get more from your treatment if you walk in the room in a more relaxed state.  After your service, feel free to do the same.  Sit quietly and extend that feeling of eurphoria. 

* Bare minimum - Your comfort is important.  What you choose to wear under your robe is your decision, especially if it’s your first spa experience. 

* Quiet Rooms - Do you prefer a quiet service or a little conversation?  It’s up to you…….you can either immerse yourself into the experience and relax quietly or (if you’re like me), you may want a little conversation.  You decide!

* Affordable?  Yes! - Many spas offer special rates and packages and there are also spas connected with massage schools, so it is affordable for all.  Although most services are 50-60 minutes, there are opportunities for 30-minute massages, which offer lower rates.  Take a look at the spa menu and simply ask if there are any specials. 

* Grateful for Gratuities - Some spas include a service charge, which could be the tip.  So always ask if you’re not sure. Although it is customary to tip 15-20 percent, it is also up to you. 

* ISPA - International Spa Association:  ISPA has more than 3000 members in 75 countries and ISPA member spas sign a Standards & Practices agreement and respects your rights as a spa-goer by using the ISPA Code of Conduct.  So be sure to look for the ISPA logo.

Resource:  ISPA

Summer is here and although it’s been quite hot in most of the U.S., it is officially here and time to think more about summer travel, summer fun and summer ‘must haves’ to keep your cool.  As a writer, I get a lot of information in my inbox for new products and services and there are some that I like that I thought I’d pass on, such as this one….good for your ’sole’ and useful all year, not just the summer.

FlexFlop…..if you haven’t heard of them yet, you will.   I’ve been going more frequently for pedicures and got in the habit of bringing my own flipflops, a little more sturdy than the paper type ones that you sometimes get when you leave (and good luck walking in them!).   Now we have FlexFlops……..they fold, they come in an array of cool colors and they come in a cute little bag so it’s like getting two items in one because you can also use the bag as a cosmetic bag or even as a purse for the spa….enough room for your phone (although it would be nice to leave that behind so you can relax) as well as a personal item or two. 

Another option is if you’re at an event in heels………ahh, what a relief to take them off and put these on.  So many uses and such a clever idea.  Stacy, the owner of FlexFlops, has also been on The Big Idea.   I recently spoke with her and congratulated her on her success.  Bottom line, if you have a dream, go for it.  It’s the chances we don’t take that we’ll regret later, mistakes just teach us a lesson….nothing ventured, nothing gained…..you get the idea! 

For a visual on the look, go to www.flexflop.com and if you’re ordering, go to:

www.indieshopper.com  www.onlyslippers.com or www.shopintuition.com 

Oh, and if you’re a fan of Big Idea, check this out:

Flexflop voted as a BIG IDEA on The Big Idea with Donny Deutsch-
Check out the clip at: http://www.cnbc.com/id/1584023……=726085039