The backdrop for spa services I don’t usually travel for relaxation specifically. For me, the very act of exploring another location is usually very soothing in itself . With that being said, I’m not a huge fan of spa services and typically view them as unwanted intrusions that suck up valuable time that could be used for experiencing something a tad more exciting. So I was slightly surprised when I discovered myself relaxing to the point of dozing into a light sleep during a Swedish massage treatment at Villa Del Palmar Resort in Playa Mujeres, Mexico. Villa Del Palmar Tiki Bar with Swings I really think it was the palapa. I’ve had massages and body wraps and other spa treatments before but none that transformed me into a sleeping zombie. Stepping into the thatched roof cabana called a palapa, steps from the ocean with a gentle breeze drifting over the crisp, white sheets of the massage table, I figured I was in for a treat but I just didn’t know it would...[more »]

Stoweflake Mountain Resort and Spa There’s nowhere better to visit in the summer than Vermont. With gorgeous weather, beautiful scenery, and loads of things to do, it’s perfect for a family vacation. Last month, my family visited Stowe, Vermont for the first time, and we had a great time. Things to Do in Stowe There are loads of things to do in the summer in Stowe, including an alpine slide, zip lining, miniature golf, and shopping. You can also visit some of the factory tours in nearby Waterbury, Vermont (including Ben and Jerry’s). The whole area is so relaxing and beautiful, and you could easily spend a long weekend there in the summer. Places to Eat in Stowe Just about every restaurant in the Stowe area is kid-friendly. My favorites include the Dutch Pancake Cafe (for breakfast) in the Grey Fox Inn, Gracie’s, and Piecasso for gourmet pizzas. Places to Stay in Stowe There are so many hotels, resorts, and inns located right in Stowe. We stayed at t...[more »]

The waiting room at the Ruby Room There’s nothing like spring weather to help you realize just how long your skin has been buried under piles of wool, down and heavy knits. After thesix month-long Chicago winter, skin cries out for a bit of pampering, which is exactly what Spa Week Chicago is for. From April 12-18, ten participating spas will offer select $50 treatments to slough off winter skin and welcome spring. Choose from massages, facials, body wraps and yoga sessions for a week of beauty. Participating salons include Shen Shen Health& Harmony, which offers acupuncture and herbal consultations, Amber Spa, which provides microdermabrasions, Exhale Spa which supplies lash tinting and cupping and Kiva, which gives massage therapyand waxing. My favorite Spa Week Chicago spa is Wicker Park’s Ruby Room, which cocoons you with relation and positive energy. Ruby Rooms welcoming space features a spa, salon, a yoga lounge, two boutiques and eight guest rooms...[more »]