Fabulous Hotel Spas!

Happy Holidays!


I know it's been a minute but honestly I haven't had the urge to write. I've been trying to remember how great my recent spa experience indeed was.

You see I took a tumble in the hotel room I was staying at and it's been a trying 3
weeks since the spa :( I'm happy to say nothing its broken or torn yet physical therapy has been required for the injury and dulled my otherwise wonderful experience at the spa! I do have a long recovery though :(

However, since this blog is about spa reviews.....while on a business trip in Orlando the last week in November, I stayed at the The Peabody Hotel Orlando (which is one of the coolest hotels I've ever stayed in!) Check out the link! (And Make sure not to miss the duck march which is the cutest thing!)

http://www.peabodyorlando.com


If you ever have the chance to stay at this hotel - it's beautiful, big, has a wonderful array of amenities...one such amenity is the spa.

I booked a 90 minute Hot Stone Massage (my favorite!) which was comparable in price to Day Spas in the NYC area. The signature massage however was a Mango Ginger Infusion Scrub...and I was very tempted by this but glad I asked questions because it was more of a scrub than an actual massage - which I deeply needed :)

The spa was quiet when I arrived for my 9:30am appointment. There were forms to fill out (as I wrote about a year ago, wondering why there are some spas that don't do this) specifically inquiring about what type of service you are seeking, whether you'd like a male or female massage therapist, and any pre-existing medical conditions you may have.

Here's a picture I snapped on the way out since I decided long time ago the one place my IPhone will not go is in the spa room with me :)

The locker room was empty (a far cry from Day Spas in NYC in the morning!) and peaceful, flip flops and robe were in each individual locker. I will says this sort of grosses me out - just because you don't know whose feet have been in them...yet I didn't travel with my own spa sandals that my bestie brought me some time ago..so I had no choice but to use what was provided. If this sort of thing doesn't make you squeamish, or you're the type to walk around the shower area of the gym barefoot, then more power to you!

After changing, I went to the relaxation room to wait to be called. Thankfully I arrived early (as you should for a spa day so it doesn't cut down on your actual spa time) and by the time I changed I didn't have to wait! I appreciate prompt service in a spa and I will say this is one of the most prompt I have ever been to!










I appreciate the massage therapist (I cannot remember her name) who asked how hot I wanted the stones. The key to a great Hot Stone Massage is to decide how hot you want the stones. They can be very hot, warm, medium... and really depends on your personal preference.

One Disclaimer here....If you have High Blood Pressure chances are you may want to skip a Hot Stone Massage or at best make sure the stones aren't too warm.

I was completely knocked out by this massage...snoring on the table :) Some initial conversation occurred - I was asked how hard I wanted pressure applied with the stones which is another key ingredient in a great hot stone massage...I answered those questions and off to sleep I went!

What makes a Hot Stone Massage so appealing, besides the heated smooth stones, are the oil in which the stones are dipped in. The oil for my massage was scented Mango Ginger oil to which I purchased after my massage (only to have it taken by TSA since I was in so much pain from my fall and I forgot to pack it..sigh...)

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic License.

After my great massage, I was ready to head back to NYC rested, renewed and rejuvenated. Even though that didn't occur, I did enjoy the massage and would recommend the hotel and the spa to anyone!

Some important spa-ing tips to remember:

1. When finishing a Hot Stone Massage, make sure you always have your slippers on because the oils that are used can be quite slippery on the bottom of your feet
(I'm almost positive this is how I slipped).

2. Make sure you advise the massage therapist about how hot you want the stones, and the type of pressure to be applied.

3. Stay in the relaxation room for a few minutes after and rehydrate. Because the hot Stone Massage usually uses towels on top of the stones over your body for a few minutes, you are more likely to become dehydrated during the massage. Take the time to have the light snack provided - usually fruit and nuts and some type of tea, juice or water.

Finally, thank the staff! Here's to the wonderful ladies in the spa!

Until next time...tell a friend and recommend! Happy New Year!

Ciao

Spa Week is Here!!!

Greetings!

It's that time again! Spa-week is here! If you've been reading along with me from the beginning you know that I'm a big fan of spa-week. Spa-week happens twice year in October and April all across the country. This year, Spa-Week runs from October 15th - October 21st!

There's still time for last minute deals! In case you're not familiar with the concept spa-week allows patrons to try a salon's service for $50 a piece! If you've never gone "spa-ing" before, this is a great chance to check out a spa or a service you've never had.

Not all spas are created equal. You may not find big name salons on the list like Bliss if you live in NYC, simply because they already have a client base. But here's to happy hunting if they have any specials!

http://www.blissworld.com

My favorite spa Eden Day Spa became my favorite when it used to be on the Spa-week list and then suddenly became uber popular and was no longer on the list. Guess what??? It's not on the list but they have specials during the same time!! :)

http://www.edenspanyc.com/promotion.php

Speaking of not being on the list, if you have a favorite spa and it is not on the spa-week list, check your spas website to see if they are running specials as well.

You can search spas by location using your zip code since spa-week is a national event.

https://www.spaweek.com

Keep in mind simple spa etiquette :

1. Make your appointment in advance.
2. Tip at least 15%-20% percent.
3. Decide if you want a male or female technician.
4. Know the cancellation policy of the spa. Some require 24 hours advance notice -
others especially during spa week may charge a percentage or 100% for a
cancellation.
5. Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled visit.
6. Decide before hand if you need a bathing suit or you are ok in the nude.


One last thing.... it's getting cold out and many of the spa services may best be enjoyed with a partner! Men can take advantage of the spa services too! It's a great time for couples massages or for women to book spa services separately for the man in your life!

As always, if spas are not "your thang" and you think it's too expensive - nothing is worth more than your own piece of mind no matter how you get it! Create the same environment at home (or away!) if necessary!


Until next time! Tell a friend and recommend!

Ciao!





This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License.

New Spa Sighting!

Hola !


Hope the day is all you want it to be! Just an quick note to mention what a just discovered ...a new spa! I haven't been there so I can't comment on it (yet) but there is a special going on $45 for a 60 minute Signature massage! There are several days left to purchase at this price! The spa is called SKIN SPA...

Check it out!

http://therightdeal.spaweek.com/deal/new-york-city/


Until next time!

Ciao!

Spa-Tastic!

Some how I just knew I would write my next entry as soon as I landed after my trip from San Francisco and Napa Valley. No such luck.

Alas life gets in the way. Someone I loved passed and it's been difficult to focus. Add to that it happened while I was away on this fabulous vacation so I will have to find my own closure.

Spa-ing and writing can be cathartic, so I'm writing. Where to start? Well since this is a spa blog...

I was completely spellbound by this trip! The spa was Indian Springs in Calistoga.


http://www.indianspringscalistoga.com

After the hectic week in San Francisco at my sorority conference, Napa Valley and the first winery was all that was left to relax and unwind to a slower (not really) pace. This lovely spa and resort was the next stop and should be on the top of anyone's list when planning a vacation!

First, if you've never taken a spa vacation you should. Up until now, I've written only about Day Spas primarily because of the proximity to where I live ...but this ... (some where I have to fit a full spa vacation out of NYC in my schedule..)

The location of the spa was in a town called Calistoga - outside of Napa. Indian Springs offered a Wet Pool (not sure I mentioned this before as I have been to one spa in Brooklyn, NY that offered it) but it's where you can enjoy the pool facilities if you're not interested in spa-ing generally for a fee of $25. The pool has its own location..

What was interesting about this spa was facilities where in separate buildings - so the Natural Bath was one location, and the Pool another, yet another was the relaxing area.

The inside of the spa was quaint! I loved the scented lotions even purchased the cucumber lotion!

I'm seriously considered ordering this bathrobe! OMG it was heavy and warm and plush...and just wow! And it's green! :)

One of the paths that lead to the outdoor "recovery" area. It's the place you relax and sit while drinking tea, or juice and perhaps light snacks (in this case orange slices)
in order to just take a moment and enjoy and "just be". What a quiet and serene spot!

But the spa...I booked a Swedish massage and a mud bath. Mud baths are what California resorts are known for so while I wanted my favorite - a Hot Stone Massage ..I got the package with the Mud Bath!

The spa is simply beautiful..unlike NYC spas in a singular space or a floor, there was an outdoor path to get to various rooms!

While outside the view of the mountains was breathtaking! There was an outdoor lounge to wait for your services after changing. It was soooo peaceful...I didn't have my camera so I missed the really great pics :(

First was the mud bath..my oh my.. I do recommend asking questions before you book of you are uncertain of things like mud temperatures, and whether one can enjoy it if you have any physical limitations.

The mud..well was muddy. Lol. It was weird settling into smelly lava for about 25 minutes..the lava actually begins to stiffen and it's quite uncomfortable for some. My bestie was next to me making faces ..lol

I suspect it was a little claustrophobic I enjoyed it and fell asleep. This was definitely a help to keep me still :) The mud was hot well not as hot as I take a bath but it was hot. They provide you with shower caps (cause you know a sista can't mess up the 'do!).

The mud was messy and you must rinse in the shower..my reccomendation..this is best enjoyed nude if you are not squeamish. Otherwise... make sure you rinse your bathing suit and you very well!

After the mud I hopped into a tub of hot water and relaxed while the staff feeds you cucumber water and provides a scented wash cloth - Ice cold for your forehead. (I think it was lavender scented..) This helps to lower your temperature as the bath was hot as well...It was a very earthy outdoors feeling..

My skin felt like butter after! I could feel the impurities gone! Supposedly that is what mud baths are known for. If you look at nothing - check out this link because it's exactly what the mud bath looks like...and some history of the orgins of mud baths which date back as far as Wappo Indians.

http://www.calistogaspas.com/mud_baths.htm

Next up was the massage. I will say I was not impressed - the NYC Asians (forgive me I'm not stereotyping but most of the spas I've been to besides some African American Owned Spas were Asian operated) still top my list for strength of the massage. I will say it was relaxing and I was enjoying the conversation so I didn't mind. My particular technician was much more chatty than I was used to however...

All of this faboulousness for $200.00! That's right. What one GREAT service in NYC would cost plus tip! I want to say we were in the spa for 3 hours at least and I felt like I was floating on air afterward!

I even enjoyed the gratitutde tree...and while writing this I know what I am grateful for ...Do you?

I am ready and willing to have a spa vacation.. Back to Cali or Arizona as there is nothing like this setting :)

If you've had a spa vacation and care to share, send me an email and guest blog!

Until my next entry.... Ciao!

Pamper Me Please!!

Greetings!

So it's been a minute and I am feeling blessed today which just happens to be my birthday!

So in honor of pampering and taking care of oneself - this is a reminder to treat each day special, whether it's your birthday or not! I am so blessed and thankful for my family, wonderful friends, and my sorority sisters.

This has been a trying year and I swear I had no idea how much stress I had until today. If you have a family, work, relationship..all these things can take a toll. Someone told us women years ago "We can have it all." I think they forgot to mention it comes with a price.

In order to make sure the price is not comprising your health - both mentally, physically and spritually - spend some time pampering yourself. Let go of the stress. Get out and get active. Learn to manage it.

I've learned this year I cannot do it alone. Seek out friends, family, church. Do (or find out) what makes you happy. Figure out how to de-stress.

In honor of figuring it all out... today I went to my favorite spa...(check my other posts if you need to know!) and had a 1/2 of pampering. I had 90 minute massage, and 85 minute reflexology. The technician advised I was so stressed...it took me almost 1/2 to reflex...then finally fell asleep! :)

I then had a dinner date - good food and great company :) I was determined to keep my great attitude all day long. So what I learned today - and hope you do too..is that it is not what happens to you...but rather HOW you react to what happens that matters.

My motto has simply become "You can't pray and worry at the same time." 50 Cent.

Until next time....

Ciao

Happy Father's Day!

Greetings !

Tomorrow is Father's Day and it's still not too late to treat the man in your life to a relaxing day after time with the family....Why not try a spa? :)

Since I've asked this question to the men in my life - I often hear spa-ing is not for them and something they would never do unless on vacation. For many men a cut and relaxin' undisturbed in front of the TV or a night out with the fellas is relaxation enough. Ladies - it's time to change this! How about a visit to a spa? :)

My go to resource wwww.spaweek.com is offering egift cards! So if you have plans tomorrow that don't include a spa - why not get a egift card when he can use it 365 days and it never expires! It can be used at over 5000 spa locations....

Other last minute steals and deals....

Brooklyn NY - Body By Brooklyn Is offering packages from June 14-June 18 from $145.00 and while I mention it - I really can't endorse it. You can google and check the reviews...I hear the place was featured on VH1's "Love and Hip Hop" so......

New York, NY - Oasis Day Spa - Another great spot offering Father's Day specials....

http://www.oasis-dayspa.com/menu


Have a fabulous day!


Ciao!

Stress...Spa-ing...Spirituality

Hola!

It's been a minute since I've posted...work obligations.. but really I haven't have the urge to write. This has been a trying first two quarters of the year for me. I've learned how much strength, fortitude, and spirituality I really have :) So what's this have to do with the Spadiva?

I feel my blog maybe taking shape and moving into a broader direction....I think...or maybe I need to deviate a bit to speak to all those who may have experienced the same issues :)

I love "spa-ing" and pampering myself and a lot of it is born out of the stress experienced in my day-to-day life. So I've been thinking about stress - the effects of it, how to manage it and what role does it play in other's lives? I completely missed "Spa-Week" in April for my discount spa treatments and scouting out new spas, yet I did make it to my favorite spot because I was so stressed I could feel it in my bones (had the best Hot Stone Massage ever!! - and you need to read my other spots to know what my favorite Spa is!)

So the question is how is Stress,"Spa-ing", and Spirituality related? Or are they? The answer really depends on you. It depends on what YOU believe.

Have you had days where you felt you couldn't go on because your stress levels are out of control? Home, School, Work, Children, Family..all pushing you to the brink? Ladies and Gentlemen - yes GENTLEMEN as this affects you as well..what things do you do (has a cool ring right?? thinking of Stevie Wonder as I write.."Do I DO.." ) to manage stress?

I love http://www.webmd.com/search/search_results/default.aspx?query=stress since it's so full of information.

DISCLAIMER...I'm not into self diagnosis so please when using this website seek professional medical advice as necessary.

There is a section on stress and I wondered if many realize just how dangerous stress can be. Stress can cause mental, physical and emotional changes and at it's height can be deadly. How well are you managing your stress?

There's nothing more important than your foundation - what you believe in - your core values. For me spirituality helps guide me through the toughest of times. When your core is rocked - guess what? Your stress level increases. Spa-ing can be used to manage stress but be wary - taking care of the external NEVER fixes the internal.

Make sure you are familiar with the causes, symptoms and how to manage stress.

So..some quick tips:

1. Physical symptoms of stress include: headaches, stomach aches, backaches, trouble sleeping, overeating, and irratibility.

2. Go back to your core values. Spirituality is not religion. It can be - but doesn't have to be. Define, understand, remember the role of spirituality in your life. For me - that has meant remembering why I pray.

3. Learn the ways to manage stress.

A. Meditation - I've mentioned it before. I've begun the practice again which my older sister does religiously. In addition to clearing the mind,it slows your heart rate, and will reduce your stress.

B. Spiritual growth - I'm not preaching here but how does one handle life's stressors if all you believe in is yourself? I really want to know. Are you spiritual? Does it matter to you? I found that it matters to me and it is my core. If it is for you - don't forget it- dust it off in times of strife.

C. Go Spa! I wouldn't feel complete if I didn't mention spa-ing! Again I know it's views as a luxury for many but... I've spent my life in Education Finance and I'm here to tell you we all spend money on the things we want. Yet remember, there are always free ways to spa!

So for me Stress, Spa-ing, and Spirituality and very much related. Are they for YOU? Spa how you feel!

Until next time! Recommend a friend or pass my blog to those who you think can benefit!

Ciao!

Stopping to smell the cherry blossoms?

Hola!

It's been a minute since my last entry and there is no review here but rather some practical advice for all those who are always on the go. I'm away at a business conference in the DMV area (DC,Maryland,and Virginia) for those who don't know, and have spent some quality time by myself. However I had dinner with an old high school classmate who I haven't seen since high school. I was reminded simply to just "be" which is often difficult for some to do. (yeah including me..)

I was reminded that it really is the simply things in life that bring us joy. So my lesson tonight was to simply "be". I wonder how often do we actually do this? In your quest to be pampered.. Stop and just "be". I know your thinking.. Who has time for that??

To truly pamper oneself really starts with allowing yourself to do you. Do what you love..what makes you happy. I was reminded just during casual conversation why I do what I do. Always grinding means it's easy to forget to be grateful, thoughtful, spontaneous and appreciative. I left dinner thinking there are some who don't have friends and I realize I treasure all mine.

Whatever you do.. Learn to Just "be".

Spa updates next time!

Ciao!

Valentine's Day..Last Minute Steals and Deals!!

Greetings!

I couldn't resist another entry before the BIG day!! There are 4 days left until the biggest love holiday of all..Valentine's Day!! It's a day that many don't care to think about for a variety of reasons...I know...I know..you're single...you're the side piece (ok my bad..but ya'll do know you won't see your "man" this day right??) or you're the dude who can't stand spending the money 'cause you think it's a frivolous holiday - or worse yet the dude that gotta figure out how to tell the side piece that she won't see him...come on...we all know someone that fits these categories...:)

But for those of you like me who actually think it's not a bad holiday - and probably should be practiced all year long..for those who spend the other 364 days a year not knowing how to articulate those special feelings...this is the perfect time!

I got an email last night for a link that is fitting for this holiday so I decided to share it ...all things chocolate! If you've never indulged yourself in a chocolate massage,body wrap, or facial, you simply must try it!! My bestie loves all things chocolate and has had a chocolate body wrap...I've had a chocolate facial..and the smell is simply incredible!

http://www.spaweekblog.com/2012/02/10/chocolate-covered-spa-deals-and-where-to-find-delicious-chocolate-nearby/

Please check out my one-stop-shop for spas and there are specials acres the country offering all things chocolate...

www.spaweek.com


In the NYC area - Oasis Day Spa still have fabulous specials available for Valentine's day..Couple's Side by Side Massages, Romance Packages which offer gift cards for dinner...:) This spa is often noted as the best spa in NYC....try for yourself and see!

Oasis Day Spa
1 Park Avenue (between 32 and 33rd St)
212-254-7722

Oasis at the Affinia Dumont Hotel
150 East 34 Street ( between Lexington and 3rd Avenue)
212-545-5254


www.oasisdayspanyc.com/specials/valentine2012

Whether married,"boo'd" up, seriously single or somewhere in between...remember you can still enjoy the holiday at home spending very little and pampering yourself or each other!

Drop me a note, subscribe, and let me know what you think!

Happy Valentine's Day!!



Ciao!

Love is in the Air!!

Greetings!

It's the month of Love! In honor of the month of February and the biggest holiday to many, this post is for all the lovers looking for something different to do for Valentine's Day! Don't get me wrong ...I love flowers...roses specifically and I hope next week I get my share (hint..hint..) yet there is still time to woo your "boo" with not the usual flowers, candy or dinner but something the two of you could enjoy together. Why not try a couples massage?

There are several places that offer wonderful services and theres time to book!
At www.spaweek.com there are a host of specials offered that you and that special someone can take advantage of!

And of course if you are single - you can enjoy the spa services just as well!

Have a great Valentine's day and do a little pampering for you or someone else!


Ciao!

Happy New Year!

Greetings!

Happy New Year to one and all! I hope the day finds you blessed and highly favored :) It's a new year and the Spa Diva has a whole new set of goals that I wish to share and impart to all who follow.

I'm building a website to expand my concept but in the mean time, thank you for following and being a part of my little journey! Gratitude is important in whatever you do!

So over Christmas break I went to my favorite spa, Eden Day Spa in downtown in Manhattan. I've yet to go to a more relaxing or fabulous spot! I had a facial and a hot stone massage....no deals during the week but well worth it! I hadn't had a facial in quite some time and the winter weather wreaks havoc on my skin - so I treated myself!

Eden Day Spa
388 Broadway, NY NY 10013
212-226-0515
www.edenspany.com

I find that I have so much going on - trying to be all things to everybody (sigh- I promise that will NOT be a goal this year...). While I was off work between Christmas and New Year's, I focused on me. I slept. I read. I played with my new MacBook Pro :) I know the whole concept of my blog is just that - relaxation and being pampered - and I certainly realize I don't do it nearly enough. Who else doesn't?? Raise your hand.....:)

My last post was a little serious concerning depression during the holidays. The truth is depression can strike anyone at any time. More often than not - too much to do and not enough time help to contribute to this. (I'm not trivilizing those who have a treatable disease who have actually been diagnosed as such - yet it is important to note most depressive symptoms go unreported and undiagnosed.)

Take the time out in the new year to set realistic goals. No resolutions. Who keeps 'em anyway? :) Goals that are S.M.A.R.T. (specific, measurable, attainable, realsitic, and timely). Try looking at goals as a "To Do" list. Start where you feel comfortable. But start. For me- this is the mental. The spiritual and the physical are also part of my regime of taking care of me this year. Know that you are no good to anyone else if you can't take care of you!

Learn and practice that taking care of yourself is a goal. Men - this includes you too! I know far too many men on their "grind" who are not slowing down and some who have passed away before the age of 50. Spiritual, Mental and Physical health are all part of the same equation. We must actively begin to treat our health (in all aspects) like the "things" we have. Like the cars, the gadgets, the shoes, clothes and what ever else our disposable income allows us.

Slowing down doesn't mean stopping. It does mean acknowledging when you need "me" time. I've always said - "you don't have to spend money to feel good". You don't need a spa to be pampered - but it sure feels good!

If I never recommend another spa - EDEN is truly a slice of heaven in the city....

Until next time! Recommend a friend or pass my blog to those who you think can benefit!

Ciao...