Girlfriend Getaways

Dallas, Tex.: Giving spa gifts—what are the considerations? Any advice? (I'm thinking of giving one to my 35-year-old sister.)

Tracy York: A spa gift certificate is the perfect gift. With most spas, there are a wide variety of treatments to choose from. This makes a gift certificate a good option, because you can select the spa and the amount you would like to spend, and let the recipient of the gift certificate select the day they would like to go and the treatments they would like to enjoy. Be sure to speak with the spa at the time you are purchasing the gift certificate to be aware of expiration dates, any limitations on usage, additional information about what the recipient should bring with them such as a swimsuit etc., if a pool is available for use. It is a gift that is given twice—the day you deliver the present and the day the recipient enjoys the services. I am sure she will love it.

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Novi, Mich.: I am a vegetarian and would like to know if there are any spas that serve only vegetarian cuisine?

Tracy York: Since we are talking about special dietary needs with the Kosher question, let's talk about vegetarians. Almost all Destination spas prepare food to order and can accommodate most special dietary requirements such as vegetarian or gluten free requests. There are a few Destination Spas that serve only vegetarian cuisine. A bit of research prior to booking will ensure that this important aspect of your spa vacation is fully met. In all cases, communication is key. Talk to your reservationist when booking your vacation or with the kitchen or chef directly if you have any special dietary needs.

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New York, N.Y.: Hey, Tracy. What are a couple of the latest trends in treatments?

Tracy York: Treatments are as varied as the spas that offer them. Here at Lake Austin Spa Resort we have a Director of Treatment Development that works year-round to stay abreast of the latest treatment trends. What she has found is that oftentimes treatments mirror the trends at large. Today, many of the new treatments you will find will include an anti-aging component as America continues to gray. (Present company excluded—or included, in my case!) We also see the Greening trend impacting spas; however I must admit that spas have been on the leading edge of this trend for years. Last, we are also developing treatments that work in concert with your ongoing efforts to stay healthy. Many spa goers are proponents of complementary care. For example, you will see treatments that promote more restful sleep as well as facials that aid those with asthma or allergies. You can never go wrong with a basic massage or facial, but I encourage everyone to branch out and try a new body or facial treatment each time they visit a spa. You don't know what you are missing.

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Lexington, Ky.: I'm looking for all-inclusive packages for a group of girlfriends (10) that will meet our diverse needs (yoga, hiking, relaxing, pampering, etc.). What's the best way to narrow the choices?

Tracy York: Wow—how did you get lucky enough to coordinate a group of 10! Good luck! I would suggest you consider location first. Is there a centralized location that makes travel easier? Perhaps there is an environment you would enjoy more—for example a desert or lakeside setting? You might also consider the time of year and the expected weather of each location. Once you have selected a location, I would recommend you look at the types of spas (destination or resort) as well as the size and atmosphere of your options. Some spas are more casual while others offer a more regimented program. Find the one that fits your groups personality first and foremost.

With a group of 10, you should work directly with a group sales manager that can ensure that all of your desired activity options and more are available. If you are looking for all-inclusive, I would encourage you to look for a Destination spa (destinationspas.com) as most of these properties offer an all-inclusive vacation.