Kids are getting ready for camp, families are planning summer vacations and there are some adults that are looking for a stress-free getaway…..and more than ever nowadays. Well, for those of you who have thought about Canyon Ranch, now may be the time to plan your adult getaway and for good reasons.

First, Canyon Ranch was just named the #1 Destination Spa by Conde Nast Traveler Readers and if you’re flexible with your travel plans you can save up to 50% (see below for more details).

With the constant flow of information, the speed at which we now go through our day, cell phones, e-mail, and tending to others it seems that perhaps a getaway to a place like Canyon Ranch can give us the time to slow down, find clarity within ourselves and allow joy to flow through our day. Canyon Ranch offers us a chance to focus on our physical as well as our mental and emotional selves while enjoying three healthy gourmet meals, comfortable accommodations and an abundance of activities both indoors and out. And, yes, a spa to relax our body and soothe our soul!

Okay, back to the note above about saving up to 50%. If you can travel between August 22 - 29 for either 4- or 7-nights, send an e-mail to me at donna@spa-vacation-experts.com and I’ll give you the details. Space at this rate is limited though. And, if you’d like to get a jumpstart on 2010, consider traveling between January 1 - 8 (for either 4- or 7-nights) and again save up to 50% during this peak travel time. Both opportunities are for the Tucson, AZ location. I’ll be updating details for Lenox soon as well.

To your health!
- Donna

Wow, talk about stress release! I just got word that Red Mountain Spa is offering a 50-minute Swedish Massage+ during the summer for only $1.00. Yes, that is correct……..and this is for stays of three nights (or longer) on the Signature Package, which is the best value so anyone interested has everything to gain and only stress to lose!

Note: +One 50-minute Sagestone Swedish massage per person per stay at special rate. Subject to availability. Valid through 8/31/09.

And here’s some more info about what is going on at Red Mountain Spa this summer.

7/9-7/12
Dr. Brad Crump Stepping Stones…Transitions through Menopause

7/10-7/13
and 8/7-8/10
Life Coach Cindy Clemens Passages: What’s NEXT!

7/11 Red Mountain Spa Event Climb to Conquer Cancer

7/12-7/19 Dr. Brad Crump Re-Energizing through Weight Loss

7/19-7/26 Fitness Manager Kim Watters Fitness Boot Camp

8/9-8/14 Chef Dale Van Sky Eat Well, Feel Well Culinary School

Take the time to do something for yourself as well as enjoy the feeling of sharing the experience with someone you care about. Here are some ideas and reasons to consider Canyon Ranch…

De-Stress & Unwind:
* Massage, Body Work and Meditation
* Yoga
* Golf

Grow & Learn:
* Sleep
* Genomics
* Sexuality & Intimacy

Lifestyle Changes:
* Nutrition
* Weight Management
* Smoking Cessation

Be open to the possibilities…

Re-discover You!
Sometimes we lose track of who we are and our core being. Peel away the layers and rediscover yourself. Nourish your body, mind and spirit.

Discovery:
You know that feeling when you want to experience something more? Perhaps you want to take up golf or tennis or learn something new in the field of sleep or nutrition; here is your opportunity to be in the moment and learn more to improve your life.

Awakening:
When was the last time you had that Aha! moment? Is there something else you want to do with your life? Have you lost sight of passion and all that makes you feel good? We’re here to feel good despite the challenges we face from time to time.

You are ready to explore the options available to help you create positive change now. Call me for moe insight and details about all that Canyon Ranch has to offer.

Remember…..”The Journey of a Thousand Miles begins with a single step.” Lao Tzu

VALUE-ADDED REASON: Just wanted to remind everyone reading this posting that I have limited space available for a promotion at Canyon Ranch Tucson from May 7 - 14 (4- or 7-night stay). It’s over Mother’s Day and offers an amazing opportunity to experience all that’s possible at Canyon Ranch with the benefit of sharing the moments with someone close to you.

If you have some time off due to Spring Break and you don’t have plans, consider a spa getaway. Perhaps you’re searching for balance or clarity or maybe better physical health, whatever the reason, now is a good time to focus on you and improve your life. Health is everything…..physical, mental, spiritual and emotional well-being - it is what truly matters. And, there are a lot of savings opportunities for destination spas and I’ve outlined just a few below….the sooner the better as these promotions are based on availability and some are time-sensitive. Here’s to you!

Red Mountain Spa:
If you are looking for a little adventure and relaxation, this may be a great fit. Last Minute rates have been extended through ‘09 and start at $199 per person per night (weekdays/based on availability) and include three healthy meals, classes/activities, hiking and more. This is a great getaway for going solo, with some friends or even a little romance.

Miraval:
Remedy Promotion has been extended through Dec. 2009 for the Standard Room. The earlier you reserve your dates, the better as this room type is limited and the rate is based on availability. And, the sooner you secure a reservation the sooner you can pre-book your spa services.

Canyon Ranch:
If you can travel in early April or early May, you’ll save more. Call me for the best options.
Some great health/wellness info http://www.canyonranch.com/con……fault.aspx

Green Valley Spa:
With their new weight loss program underway and other new programs, this is another great option for you to get in gear and focus on your health and wellness.

Lake Austin Spa:
What a deal….they’ve extended their bonus weeks, which offer a savings of 30% throughout 2009. This is the best option and based on availability. If you like to kayak, go visit Mindy! Tell her I said hi.

Rancho La Puerta:“Bring a Friend” week
saves $1500 to $2200!
April 11-18, 2009
All guests staying during this week only (Saturday to Saturday) can bring a friend at 50% off. Share the room…share the savings…and most importantly, share the one and only experience that is Rancho La Puerta.

Four Friends Share a Villa Suite and Save 25%
Any three guests staying in the two-bedroom villas can bring a fourth guest for FREE. This offer extends from now until further notice in 2009. Book now and save to receive this extraordinary value on our largest casitas.

If you have dates in mind and are ready to put yourself first so that you can succeed and move forward with your life, then set something up and start creating the life you always wanted. The best ideas come to us when we reduce stress and are away from clutter and the same surroundings. If you’re ready for your own Plan B, you may find answers at a destination spa. I know I did and that is why I am so confident that you will too.

Your Adventure Awaits You at Rancho la Puerta

Is anyone else out there experiencing cabin fever? I am not one to stay put for a very long time and I am ready to go someplace very soon…..and now is the time to consider a long awaited getaway. We’ve been reading and hearing about making cutbacks and recently one of my articles was published about our current economic atmosphere and how people are cutting back and one example was about making lattes at home; well it doesn’t seem that way when I’m waiting in line for my soy latte at Starbucks. Travel is another area that has been affected by our current economic atmosphere and although travel buying habits have changed, people are traveling. Travel and tourism is one of our nation’s greatest resources for jobs and economic growth and support is vital. Simply put, travel supports the economy let alone the other benefits of our well-being, relationships, and rest to name a few. Whether you’re dealing with cabin fever, monkey mind or sleep deprivation, traveling can set you free and open your mind to possibilities, a new awareness and maybe that’s what we need to consider now more than ever.

Many resorts are offering amazing values right now and some are advertised while many aren’t and that’s when working with a travel professional becomes important. So, with that, I’m going to cover 4 different promotions that are being offered right now. Take a look and consider one of these options. It may be just what you need for your vision of hope and well-being.

Rancho la Puerta
Bring a Friend Promotion
Travel the week of February 7-14, 2009
or February 21-28, 2009

There is too much “room at the inn” in these particular weeks, so there is an offer rarely seen at Rancho La Puerta. All guests staying one week (Saturday to Saturday) can bring a friend at 50% off. Share the room…share the savings…and most importantly, share the one and only experience that is Rancho La Puerta.

ALL-INCLUSIVE seven-night packages. NEVER A SERVICE CHARGE.
Subject to availability. Some restrictions apply. One-week stays only. May not be combined with other promotions.

There are several room types available. Call me directly for pricing and availability.

Life is an Adventure. Travel!

Hi - well, this just came in and you’re the first to know….okay, second……I’ve never seen a special like this during peak season at Rancho la Puerta and I’m excited that there’s another opportunity
to experience Rancho la Puerta at a special rate. Here are the details:

Enjoy “Bring a Friend” weeks and save $1500 to $2200
January 17-24, 2009 | February 7-14, 2009 | February 21-28, 2009

All guests staying one week (Saturday to Saturday) can bring a friend at 50% off.
Share the room…share the savings! Now is the perfect time to visit Rancho La Puerta,
legendary luxury fitness resort and spa founded in 1940. Only one hour east of San Diego.

ALL-INCLUSIVE seven-night packages. NEVER A SERVICE CHARGE.
Private garden casitas…three healthy, organic meals daily…over 50 cutting-edge fitness classes…3,000 private acres…guided hikes, tennis, swimming…organic farm…cooking school…soothing spa treatments transportation to and from San Diego Airport included.
(Subject to availability. Some restrictions apply. One-week stays only.)

Call Spa Vacation Experts at 1-800-532-5590 to reserve your adventure!

Rancho la Puerta, Tecate, Mexico - 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. Meals are nourishing, vegetarian and simply delicious. The ‘rooms’ are really casitas and they’re spacious and decorated with folkloric Mexican art and very comfortable. Take the time to ‘meander the paths’ at the Ranch and you might just find your life will open up to unlimited possibilities.

And, for a limited time, Rancho la Puerta has extended their partial stays through the week of Feb. 14th. Transfers are only included on Saturdays, however there is a cab service from San Diego airport that costs about $100 (per car, not per person).

And we can still get 2008 rates for 2009 stays. I’ve included some highlights for upcoming weeks…….are you ready to make those changes you promised yourself…are you looking for a fitness class that is better suited to you, do you want to learn how to cook healthy, are you ready to tap into your inner artist, or perhaps a topic like Feeding the Future will inspire and motivate you? Take a look….you’re sure to find something that interests you. Spa Vacation Experts can help you find the destination spa that fits you best and your budget. Rancho la Puerta is one of those options. Let’s all do what we can to create and enjoy the best year ever!

Jan. 17:
Gyrokinesis | Cathleen Murakami
Culinary Experiences at La Cocina Que Canta | Chef Ana Lorena Najar
The Oscar Race 2009 | Roger and Chaz Ebert
Sex Over 40 | Debra Haffner
Concert | Jeanne and Karl Anthony
Feeding the Future | Michael Ableman

Jan 24:
Pilates | Kelly Kane
Culinary Experiences at La Cocina Que Canta | Chef Ana Lorena Najar
Point of Impact — Bring your Camera | Pat Harrison
Crossword Puzzles: An Inside Look | David J. Kahn
Have You Had Your Annual Meaning Checkup? | Richard Leider
What is Your Plan to Build Bone Health? | Stan Bassin, Ed.D.
Feeding the Future | Michael Ableman

Jan 31:
Pilates Week | Jean Sullivan
Culinary Experiences at La Cocina Que Canta | Chef Ana Lorena Najar
Your Home, Your Sanctuary | Clodagh
Concert | David Shostac, David Low and Bryan Pezzone
The Matters That Matter…No Matter What | Molly Davis and Kristine Van Raden

Feb 07:
Feldenkrais® | Betsy Ingalls
Culinary Experiences at La Cocina Que Canta | Visiting Speaker Barbara Haber
Introduction to Sacred Sound for Meditation & Healing | Diane Mandle
Details to Come… | Susan Gail

Feb 14:
Pilates Week | Jill Winegar
Culinary Experiences at La Cocina Que Canta | Visiting Teacher Lynne Rossetto Kasper
Dream On: Exploring Your Dream World | Veronica Tonay, Ph.D.
Collage: Discover Your Inner Artist | Susan Ross
With Purpose: Going from Success to Significance… | Ken Dychtwald, Ph.D.

Greetings Spa-goers,

If there was ever a time to experience ebb and flow, this was certainly the year. However, let’s welcome 2009 with enthusiasm and optimism, albeit cautious at times, we must continue to move forward and never give up on our dreams.

With a hopeful outlook for the year ahead, I wish all of you a year filled with joy, good health, happiness and prosperity. As others have said, it’s up to us to create the change we want to
see and that holds true for ourselves, our family and our country.

Happy New Year!
Felice anno nuovo!
Bonne Annee!
Hauoli Makahiki Hou!
Bliain nua fe mhaise dhuit!
Feliz Ano Nuevo!
Prosit Neujahr!

There’s still time to celebrate the new year and a new you at many of the destination spas, however this is the latest for Rancho la Puerta in Tecate, Mexico - about two hours from San Diego.

Last minute plans?

Consider this weekend for a short stay…or the whole week with the “pre-inauguration special” for the week of January 3-10, 2009, which offers three- four-, or seven-night stays with big bonuses:

Three- and four-night stays receive one complimentary Relaxation Massage and complimentary transportation from San Diego Airport and return on Saturdays and Wednesdays.

Seven-night stays receive a complimentary Relaxation Massage, one Golden Door Facial, one 3.5-hour cooking class in La Cocina Que Canta, and complimentary transportation (of course!) from San Diego Airport and return on Saturdays.

Time is short and the results can be long lasting: call as soon as possible at 800-532-5590.

All 2009 rates are still holding at 2008 levels…

Indefinitely! Any reservation made before they finalize 2009 rates will be honored at 2008 prices—a savings that may be 5 percent or more. Rancho la Puerta accepts Saturday arrivals for 7-night
stays (except where noted above and last minute partial stays).

NEW Villa Spa Getaway Special…
Guests staying during the weeks starting January 17, 2009 and ending February 21, 2009, who stay 7 nights in any of the three types of villas can now receive a $300, $400, or $500 spa credit per person!

These are largest rooms accommodating two to four guests: perfect for girlfriend getaways, families, couples.

Feliz Ano Nuevo!
Happy New Year!

There’s still time to plan your ‘kickstart, get healthier, spa vacation’ to welcome 2009!

Miraval has extended their Remedy promotion for travel through Feb. 28th - there’s still time to
visit one of the highest rated destination spas in the U.S. and do all that you can for a healthier and more balanced you.

Canyon Ranch in Tucson - I still have limited space for an amazing rate for Jan. 2 - 6; a 4-night or longer stay beween Jan. 29 - Feb. 5 and Feb. 19 - 26. Now is the time to save on a healthy
spa vacation and invest in yourself - afterall, isn’t investing in yourself a sure thing!

Red Mountain Spa has lowered their rates through the winter and Green Valley Spa has an amazing weight loss program exclusive to their resort.

Rancho la Puerta is still offering 2008 rates for 2009 stays and has introduced a pre-Inauguration
special for the week of Jan. 3rd as well as extend their Villa Special.

Remember, “The Journey of a Thousand Miles begins with a Single Step,” (Lao Tze)….isn’t
it time to take that first step?