Girlfriend Getaways

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Bachelorette Handbook

• How to Plan a Bachelorette Party
• Readers' Bachelorette Party Tips
• Game On, Girls!

And remember…

The bachelorette weekend is your last fling with the girls—often the same friends who are being asked to foot the bill for bridesmaids' dresses and showers. So, be sensitive to cost, and don't forget to ask for price breaks when booking. Groups as small as four can sometimes qualify for discounts. Group-planning sites like imin.com, triphub.com and groople.com can make it easier to coordinate plans.

PAMPERING AT THE SPA
Nothing tames pre-wedding tension like a weekend devoted to buffing, polishing, and exfoliating—with a little deep breathing thrown in, too. Before booking, start by mulling over the atmosphere you want. If you like having the freedom to let loose, a Zen meditation center isn't going to be your cup of (green) tea.

For most groups of girlfriends, resort spas will be a better bet than destination spas since they appeal to a wider array of budgets and don't limit food choices or alcohol. Browse spafinder.com and check specific spas' websites to see which features they emphasize, what type of food they serve, and whether they cater to groups.

Consult with the spa director before booking to make sure the staff can accommodate the size of your party. If the spa has two nail techs and eight women want mani-pedis at the same time, it's not going to add up to a blissful experience.

Be sure there's a common place for everyone to hang out, whether it's a large spa suite, a relaxation room, or a pool area, and that there are enough diversions—steam rooms, whirlpools, yoga classes—to make a day of it, even if some women only opt for a pedicure. (Remember that spa services are pricey; massages can easily top $100.)

As an alternative to going to a spa, you can have the spa come to you, at least in some cities. Set yourselves up in your hotel's suite or a conference room, and a mobile spa company will bring everything needed. Check out beautyoncall.com or ask the concierge for recommendations. The advantages: You're all together in one room, you can plug in your own playlist, order your favorite foods, and uncork whatever suits your mood.

Something Extra Before heading out on the town, have a mehndi party where you get adorned with temporary henna tattoos, like Elizabeth Hurley did for her Indian wedding. You may be able to find a local service through a spa or hotel concierge, or by searching on partypop.com.