Girlfriend Spa Getaways

Girlfriend Spa Getaways

Girlfriend Spa Getaways is not just for fun, but it is a necessity. With coming from a big family, and no children of my own, I was thinking about my time growing up, the hours of playing, making up songs, and going to the beach. We didn’t have a lot of money, so everything we did had to be free or less than $1.50 (the cost of 2 sodas and four slices of pizza). We did not have much. But we had and have each other. It was as though I came into the world with my best friends forever, my mother and my three sisters.

Summary of This Article:

• Girlfriend spa getaways are a popular and beneficial way for women to spend time bonding with female friends/family. They provide a chance to relax, laugh, and feel understood. 
• Time with girlfriends reduces stress through increased prolactin (bonding hormone). It’s important to make time for this as women get older and busier.
• 24% of women have taken a girlfriend getaway in the past 3 years. Top activities are dining out, shopping, spas, beach/pool. Main challenge is coordinating schedules and budgets. 
• There are many types of spas to choose from for a getaway: day spas, boutique resort spas, spa resorts, luxury spas, destination spas, medical spas, golf spas, nature spas. Popular destinations include beach, cruise, etc.
• Article provides examples of top spas in each category across the U.S. It also shares tips on planning and reasons why girlfriend getaways are so rejuvenating. Goal is to help readers plan an escape with female friends/family.

Like best friends, we are now a little more spread out around the USA and Europe, from Scotland to Arizona, and Virginia in between, it is not always easy to find the time to get together. Now, is probably a great time for us to start planning our girlfriend getaway and perhaps you are thinking about the same thing too. After all, summer will soon be here and the children will be out of school and then it will be harder to getaway.

Girlfriend Spa getaways are popular, and actually quite necessary because women are under increasing pressure at work and at home. Spending time with female friends and family members is an effective and fun way for women to recover from this pressure. This issue of Spavelous “Now You Are In The Know” will take a look at some of the best spa girlfriend getaways to help us all plan our spa getaways, and take a look at why they are so needed .

Let’s Go Girls!

Time spent with friends is more than just a fun time. It’s good for you, too. Scientists are discovering what women have always known. Time spent with the girls soothes stress. “Hanging out with women friends increases prolactin levels. Prolactin is a bonding hormone that also decreases stress,” says Christiane Northrup, M.D., author of Women’s Bodies, Women’s Wisdom. “Going to movies together, meeting for cappuccino, or simply having a date for taking walks together — all of these are great ways to decrease stress.”

Getting together with female friends provides you with a chance to talk, listen, laugh, and feel completely understood. “The older you get, the harder it is to make time for girlfriends because you have husbands and kids and jobs,” says Laura Maffeo, author of Girls’ Night In Fabulous Ideas for Evenings with Friends. “So just being able to catch up and giggle and not deal with daily life stuff is great.”

Nurturing yourself and your friends at a local day spa can be done easily at home, or pack up everyone and escape to a destination spa. Get together with your friends for a collective brainstorming session and plan your soothing retreat.

Interesting facts about girlfriend spa getaways 

• Most girlfriend getaways consist of 2 – 3 women (51 percent).
• Girlfriend getaways account for approximately four percent of all US leisure travel spending. (Source: D.K. Shifflet & Associates Ltd. DIRECTIONS? DESTINATION PERFORMANCE/MonitorSM.)
• Women who participated in the focus groups highlighted the importance of spending time with girlfriends in general and taking these types of trips specifically. These women also felt that these types of trips provided an added intensity and importance to their connections with their women friends.
• The leading reasons women want to take the girlfriend getaways are to bond with friends or family (70 percent) and to escape from their daily responsibilities (65 percent).
• The most popular activities while on a girlfriend getaways are dining out (86 percent), shopping (74 percent), spa (73 percent), and going to the beach or pool (70 percent).
• The most difficult aspects of planning a girlfriend getaway are finding a time that works for everyone (77 percent) and selecting a trip that fits everyone’s budget (76 percent).
• Fifty-six percent of all women surveyed said they have yet to make plans for a future girlfriend getaway, but would like to plan one.
• Based on the research it has been an increase in taking girlfriend getaways for “no particular reason”.
• The largest portion of women who said they had been on a girlfriend getaway in the last three years was between the ages of 25-34 (40 percent).
• The greatest number of women who had gone on a girlfriend getaway in the past three years had no children (38 percent) and were not married (42 percent).
• A survey on women travelers reveals the popularity of girlfriend getaways among American women as an escape from personal and professional responsibilities.
• The study, conducted by AAA and Aspire Marketing, is the most comprehensive examination of the girlfriend getaways travel market.
• The report shows that 24 percent of American women have taken a girlfriend getaway in the past three years, with 39 percent planning to take one in the next three years.
• The experience of a girlfriend getaway is considered important to 62 percent of women who plan to take one in the near future.
• The most common destinations for girlfriend getaways include the beach (66 percent), spa visits (63 percent), shopping trips (55 percent), and cruises (51 percent).
• The primary purpose of these getaways is bonding with female friends and family, rather than the destination or accommodations.
• Women who participate in girlfriend getaways report increased self-confidence, adventure, and relaxation, along with bonding experiences and validation from their female companions.
• The study indicates that only 34 percent of women cited a “break from a significant other” as a reason for a getaway.
• Despite the break, 79 percent of women still frequently talk about men or their significant others during these trips.

Spas – Spas Everywhere …where should we go?

Here you’ll find perfect packages from spas around the U.S. You may select them by location, weather, beaches, classes, budget or other activities. Try something new with your mom, your sisters, or your best friends – whether it is a cooking demo, an inspirational hike, or a yoga class – and make lasting memories while finding a renewed sense of connection.

• Day Spa Getaways
• Boutique Resort Spas
• Spa Resorts
• Luxury Spas
• Destination Spa
• Medical Spas
• Golf Spa Getaways
• Nature Spa Getaways

Day Spa Getaways

Spa Xanadu – Arcadia, CA

Voted “Top Ten Day Spas in LA” Spa Xanadu is located just beneath the Foothills in the city of Arcadia. This quaint century-old town has long been known for its outstanding, upscale, and peaceful community as well as appealing attractions, a city retreat where serenity reigns like no other.

Using an East-West approach, the philosophies focus on the inner-self to refresh your mind, uplift your spirit as well as nurture your body a vital part of life that most of us ignore. This Spa features the latest equipment, from the most advanced international spa favorites to a traditional alternative method of self-healing. The pleasant, dedicated, and highly skilled professionally trained staff welcomes you with warmth and comfort.

Hanalei Day Spa – Kauai, HI

Located at the Hanalei Colony Resort, Hanalei Day Spa is only steps away from a white-sand beach on the north shore of Kauai. Four treatment rooms provide a relaxing setting for exotic therapies and beauty treatments, including a selection of Eastern-influenced signature massage modalities such as abhyanga (involving warm herbal oil poured onto the body) and the gentle Lomi-Lomi from Hawaii. Zen Shiatsu, neuromuscular therapy, trigger-point, and myofascial release are additional rejuvenating menu items.

Enjoy the Girlfriends Package which includes a 1-hour massage, custom facial, and hands/feet exfoliation, with their green tea/mint rejuvenation scrub, side by side, in their couple’s room, as you sip cool mint tea. Remember how good it feels to enjoy a day of self-care with a friend near the beach.

Beauty Spa of Englewood – Englewood, NJ

The Beauty Spa at Englewood integrates medical science and beauty care to provide services that surpass those found in conventional spas. Because The Beauty Spa is associated with a dermatology and plastic surgery practice, so their clients benefit from the latest developments in both fields. Enjoy the serenity of a tranquil environment with soft, muted colors that soothe and welcome you and your best girlfriends.

Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa – Corona, CA

If you’d like to escape for the entire day, you’ve come to the right place. Just hearing the names will give you a hint of what awaits. Club Mud, The Grotto, Under the Oaks, Mineral Baths, Saline Pool and Massage Village, just to name a few. There are 11 lavish acres, 15 different areas to enjoy, and at least a million reasons why you deserve to come see for yourself. Enjoy a girlfriends day away and book a private cabana with a group of six or more girlfriends and receive a private complimentary “Happy Hour” of wine and hors’ d’oeuvres.

Scottsdale Spa @ The Inn – Fountain Hills, AZ

Fountain Hills is known for its impressive fountain, once the tallest in the world. The spa at this 42-room small hotel property has been making waves with its unique healing treatments. Try Perscentology, one of their exclusive treatments, which includes personality profiling, Scen Tao (an experience that combines Shiatsu techniques, hot stone, and toe reading), and reflexology to help you find direction in your life. Or try the Amethyst Body Renewal a ninety-minute treatment that incorporates the healing power of amethyst into a decadent life-changing spa treatment.

The views from this hotel are spectacular, and Scottsdale nightlife is just minutes away. Choose from one of their many spa packages, or ask them to customize a getaway specifically for you and your girlfriends.

Spas – Spas Everywhere …where should we go?

Boutique Resort Spas 

Stanly Ranch Napa

Stanly Ranch Napa, is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of California’s breathtaking Napa Valley. This enchanting resort offers a unique blend of wellness and luxury, providing guests with an unforgettable experience of tranquility, rejuvenation, and indulgence. From its stunning natural surroundings to its world-class amenities and impeccable service, Stanly Ranch Napa is the ultimate destination for those seeking a holistic escape.

Mirbeau Inn and Spa – Skaneateles, NY

Perfect for a short escape and weekend spa getaways in upstate with friends, Mirbeau Inn & Spa blends gracious hospitality, award-winning dining, and a world-class Spa into a relaxing vacation experience. It may seem odd to find French country style in the Finger Lake region of New York, but Mirbeau executes it exquisitely.

From the elegantly appointed French-country chic rooms to the delicious courses served in their Monet-inspired restaurant, you’ll feel as if you magically landed in the hills of France. At the spa book the Bit of the Bubbly Heated Body Wrap or the Orange Parfait Mirbeau Kurs for the ultimate relaxing experience and getaways in upstate New York.

Spa Resorts Getaways

The Heavenly Spa by Westin – Hilton Head Island, SC

Located within the gracious Port Royal Plantation, The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa is set on a pristine stretch of sandy white beach along the Atlantic. Grab a chair, grab the girls and enjoy the “Cherish the Moments Package” at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa.

The peaceful environment of the spa is reflected by small, thoughtful touches. Serene visual stimuli such as white flowers and insightful messages are displayed throughout the spa, and the sound of gentle waterfalls provides a tranquil backdrop. The scent of white tea aromatherapy fills the spa, and steam rooms are infused with Eucalyptus oils to invigorate the senses.

The exclusive collection of Holistic Spa Services which includes the Indigo massage, Indigo wrap, and Indigo facial, are designed to reflect the cultural and natural surroundings of Hilton Head Island. Developed to honor the indigo plant, one of Hilton Head Island’s historically prevailing crops, these treatments were created to relax your body, stimulate and purify your skin, and open your mind through the energy of the indigo plant’s vibrant color.

Bedford Springs Resort – Bedford, PA

After an unprecedented $120 million renewal and expansion, guests now enjoy a new Bedford Springs Resort. The legend began over 200 years ago at Bedford Springs, where eight mineral springs became famed as a mecca of rejuvenation. Today, the legacy continues at the world-class Springs Eternal Spa incorporating treatments with mineral waters, and a magnificently restored golf course. From the beautiful guest rooms and historic dining venues, they have preserved all of the original historic charms with the addition of modern creature comforts.

Located in South Central Pennsylvania’s scenic Cumberland Valley just 90 minutes from Pittsburgh, and just three miles off of the Pennsylvania Turnpike at Exit 146, The Springs is the ultimate and conference destination. Experience the unrivaled luxury and service of the Bedford Springs Resort, a National Historic Landmark.

Try The Ultimate Cloud Nine Package to chase away those winter blues with the ultimate pampering package! Their Ultimate Cloud 9 packages offer three nights’ deluxe accommodations for two people, PLUS $999 CREDIT AT THE SPRINGS ETERNAL SPA! All this for only $999! Valid Sunday – Thursday only, through May 1, 2008 – based on availability!

Chateau on the Lake Resort – Branson, MO

Standing on a beautiful Ozark mountaintop, overlooking the pristine waters of Table Rock Lake, this extraordinary Branson hotel combines modern luxury with traditional charm to create an experience that is both elegant and exciting.

Enjoy their Girls’ Spa Getaway; this package is all about fun with your girlfriends! Begin your stay in a beautifully decorated guest room with a tray of fruit and cheese with your choice of our red or white house wine. Start your Spa Vacation by relaxing in our indoor or outdoor heated whirlpools that overlook Table Rock Lake. Choose between our Chateau Dogwood Signature Massage, Talking Rocks Hot Stone Massage, or Slim and Tone Wrap followed by our Signature Pedicure!

The Claremont Resort & Spa – Berkeley, CA

Conceived as an English estate, the grounds of The Claremont Resort & Spa were selected for their astonishing views of San Francisco, California, and San Francisco Bay. Two families, countless guests, and one world-class resort have called this idyllic location home, the latter for nearly a century.

Since its debut in 1915, The Claremont Resort & Spa has served as a haven of sophistication, elegance, and luxury high in the Berkeley Hills. Its award-winning cuisine, live entertainment, and stately accommodations have drawn admirers from across the bay and the globe.

Today, The Claremont Resort & Spa continues to treat visitors to an atmosphere of refinement found no place else. Enjoy the Claremont Spa Renewal Getaway Packages where you may relax and rejuvenate—even if you don’t have the time for a full-fledged vacation. Feel free to build the Getaway of your choice by staying more than one night or combining different packages for a several night stay.

Spa at the Del, Hotel del Coronado – Coronado, CA

As a National Historic Landmark, the Hotel del Coronado has a rich and colorful heritage that sets it apart from neighboring Coronado hotels. From Marilyn Monroe to Charles Lindbergh, from state dinners to the ghost of Kate Morgan, The Del is an American treasure with more than 115 years of fascinating stories to tell. Today, you are invited to create new memories at this cherished hotel in Coronado.

Enjoy the Del Spa Package and escape with your friends and experience the ultimate in seaside pampering.

The Spa of Colonial Williamsburg – Williamsburg, VA

A wisteria-draped pathway alongside a formal garden beckons guests to the Georgian-Revival style building. Inside, guests are enveloped in a soothing blend of modern and authentic luxury. The signature scent of lavender lemongrass wafts through the three-story spa facility.

Choose from an array of traditional yet distinct massage, scrub, wrap, bath and skincare treatments, plus a full line of manicure, pedicure, hair, and scalp services. The 20,000-square-foot facility includes an adjoining fitness center with the latest cardiovascular and strength training equipment and group exercise classes. Girlfriend’s Spa Package which allows you to choose from selected spa services and enjoy gracious accommodations at the Colonial Williamsburg Resort Collection.

Luxury Spa Getaways

Parker Palm Springs – Palm Springs, CA

The Parker Palm Springs pays homage to the spirit and style of yesteryear. Each of the glamorous guest rooms and private villas is stocked with luxury bathroom amenities like Erno Lazlo and Peter Thomas Roth skincare products. PSYC – The Palm Springs Yacht Club. Rated a world-class spa by Condé Nast Traveler, offers a full range of massage and body treatments including the Lost at Sea Experience, which has you covered from head to toe with a beautiful lagoon wrap and Poseidon confidant facial.

The property also boasts an 18-hole executive golf course, croquet lawns, and Norma’s, a five-star diner where one can devour a $1,000 omelet. Yes, it is extravagant, but what else would you expect in Palm Springs? But do not let that discourage you; you may be able to find some great last-minute deals

The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island – Kiawah Island, SC

Located just thirty minutes from downtown Charleston, the Sanctuary at Kiawah Island is the ultimate Southern retreat. Each of the 255 rooms and suites features Italian linens and deep soaking tubs, and almost all of the rooms offer ocean views. The island itself boasts five master golf courses, three pools, and two fine dining venues.

The Spa at the Sanctuary offers unique Southern favorites like the Low Country Verbena Body Polish as well as a variety of gentlemen’s spa options. From the dining to the spa, the Sanctuary at Kiawah Island is a true Southern gem. Enjoy the Blissful Breeze Spa Package which features four luxurious hours at the spa.

Destination Spa Getaways

Canyon Ranch – Tucson, AZ

Canyon Ranch is a destination spa with a medical spa flare, the staff includes physicians, acupuncturists, chiropractors, exercise physiologists, nurses, and nutritionists. Typical programs include lectures on food and nutrition, stress, and sexual health, while specialty programs focus on such diverse topics as Journey through Midlife—a Women’s Retreat, Healthy Heart, and Optimal Aging.

Between the yoga, healthy food, more than forty daily fitness classes, and interesting lectures, a stay at Canyon Ranch is sure to jumpstart your journey to health. These allinclusive girlfriend getaways have many special events including the “Girlfriends Getaway” at the Lenox location in April.

Medical Spa Getaways

Hilton Head Health Institute Hilton Head Island, SC

For the past twenty-five years, Hilton Head Health Institute has made it its mission to assist guests with permanent weight loss and in the process promote self-acceptance. Their core program includes classes entitled Maximizing Your Metabolism, Preventing Heart Disease and Stroke as well as water classes, strength training, yoga, Pilates, and macrobiotics.

Specialty weeks focus on specific issues including how to overcome emotional and stress eating as well as occasional Healthy Table cooking courses. While learning how to balance your eating habits and patterns, enjoy their wide array of spa treatments, including craniosacral therapy, pineapple, and papaya body scrubs, and reflexology.

Oasis Center for Wellness & Beauty, Brandon, FL

The Latest Concept in Wellness. a Combination of Beauty, Science, and Service. The more chaotic life is the more we realize we all share the need and longing for a peaceful sense of inner balance and harmony and a place of refuge or an “Oasis” of retreat.

If only for a short while. Their treatments focus on boosting vitality and enhancing your quality of life. Our services include medical and spa treatments to make you look and feel your best. We hope you will find Oasis to be the ideal balance between the serenity of a spa and the professionalism and discretion of your personal physician. A great escape for those Florida girlfriends wanting a local escape and long term results.

Golf Spa Getaways

Kohler Spas – Kohler, WI

While it comes as no surprise that Kohler, the water people, have successfully integrated water therapies into their spa menu, Kohler’s American Club has also made a splash in the golf world. Located 55 miles north of Milwaukee, Destination Kohler is home to the American Club, the Midwest’s only AAA Five Diamond resort; the Kohler Waters Spa; and two golf courses, Whistling Straits and Blackwolf Run, which collectively offer 72 holes of golf. Whistling Straits was home to this year’s PGA Championship.

Not ready for the tour? Kohler also offers a Blackwolf Run Golf and Spa package and a Golfer’s Foot Renewal, the perfect way to reward your feet after a long day on the links.

The Spa at Bacara – Santa Barbara, CA

Enjoy a fabulous combination of treatments and activities making for the perfect girlfriend getaway. THELMA and LOUISE may be ideal for you if you enjoy wine, shopping, and relaxing at the spa. This package includes: Two nights’ accommodation in a luxurious guest room, Chauffeured and catered wine tour through the Santa Ynez Valley, One 50-minute spa treatment per person.

Personal Shopper and retail discount certificate. Package starts at $1,400 for two nights Sunday-Thursday and $1,600 for two nights Friday-Saturday. Room tax and spa service charge included. Rates based on double occupancy. Offer not combinable with any other promotion, is based upon availability and expires May 22, 2008. Special restrictions may apply.

Doral Golf Resort and Spa – Miami, FL

With five champion courses and 100 treatments to choose from, Doral can satisfy even the hardest to please golfers and spa-goers. Prep for Doral’s famed Blue Monster by taking part in the Golfer’s One-on-One Workout, designed to enhance your game through strength, flexibility, and endurance training. Improve your game and your health by balancing your time on the green with your time in Doral’s fitness center and spa.

Have the spa’s registered nutritionist perform a fitness assessment or body composition analysis, then reward yourself with the Blue Monster Massage or Sports Hydro-Aromatherapy treatment.

Nature Spa Getaways

Aspira Spa at The Osthoff Resort – Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

Meaning ‘infused with spirit’, Aspira was borne on the banks of a lake considered sacred by the Native Americans who lived there. Shaped like an elk’s heart, the lake bestows its powerful natural energy upon all who encounter it.

Inside Aspira, space is thoughtfully designed, embracing the wisdom of feng shui and the elements of wood, fire, earth, metal and water. They embrace the healing wisdom of indigenous peoples from around the world for a holistic, organic approach to the spa experience. There is a reverence for all that is natural and the balance created with such reverence – in the design of our space, in the purity of our products, and in the approach of their services.

Girlfriend’s Celebration Package

Celebrate a birthday, a promotion, or just taking time to be with good friends with the Girlfriend’s Celebration Package. The celebration begins with a champagne toast and chocolate, then it’s off to the spa for some well-deserved relaxation. Spend the evening relaxing and catching up with a glass of wine in front of your own fireplace. The next morning, it’s off to the cooking school to learn favorite French classics using great recipes to take home—a celebration to remember!

Get Ready to Go

Even if there is no major stress in a woman’s life, a Girlfriends Getaway Weekend or week is still a great idea. After all, a girl can never have too much fun and relaxation. So what are you waiting for, Start connecting with all of the woman who is in your life or who you haven’t seen in a while? Those who can make this spa girlfriend’s getaway were destined to share an experience with you.

There is no doubt that through this you could learn more about you and embrace the learning experience regardless of what transpires in the planning, execution, enjoyment, and fulfillment of this desire.

Girlfriend’s Getaway Weekends can be anywhere you all want to go, doing anything you all want to do. So, gather up a group of your girlfriends and plan yourselves a Girlfriend’s Getaway Weekend. You’ll be glad you did. While you’re gone, encourage the men to have their own man-cation.

No time to get away, then choose a local spa near you.