Saturday, May 17, 2008
Now how can we relax? Our travel expert advises post-New Year's travelers on spa trips, Berkshire respites and Caribbean honeymoons.
Jan 6, 2000 | Sometime in January or February, I want to take a long weekend -- at least -- at a spa. How can I locate reasonably priced spa locations?
You'll have plenty of company as many people shift into the post-holiday, post-Y2K recovery mode. A thorough spa resource is Spa-finders' Spa Source. Its search engine can lead you to dozens of spa resorts around the country. You can sort by many categories, although "low-priced" isn't one of them. Still, there is a price indicator and you can fend for yourself once you have the basic information.
You also can book spa vacations online, or through a toll-free number, where agents can help. Day spas also are described. Similar information is in the "Spa Finder" directory, which costs $7.95, postage paid, and is available by calling (800) 255-7727 or (212) 924-6800; it can also be ordered through the Web site.
Another source is the book "Healing Centers & Retreats: Healthy Getaways for Every Body and Budget," by Jenifer Miller (John Muir Publications, 1998). It may provide a wider price range for the healthy vacations, although they tend not to be the maxi-equipped spa resorts that many people seek.
Another source is Specialty Travel Index, which lists dozens of spa locations around the world, as well as many other kinds of specialty vacations. Use the Web site search engine, or get an annual two-issue subscription for $10 from Specialty Travel Index, 305 San Anselmo Ave., San Anselmo, CA 94960. About 20 Mexican spas can be booked through Spa World Reservations Service.
One of the most recent guidebooks to spa vacations is "Spa Guide USA," by John Segesta and Anne Stein (Open Road Publishing, 1999).
I'm scouting for an inclusive resort in the Berkshires or elsewhere in New England with lots of activities where my husband and I can take my three 20-something sons for a long summer weekend in 2000. Where can we look?
The Berkshires region of western Massachusetts makes a splendid long summer weekend. Besides soothing scenery, the arts and sophisticated dining, there are activities for many interests, including golf, hiking, horseback riding, llama trekking, rafting, baseball, boating, swimming, tennis and racquetball.
With its long history as a vacation destination, the Berkshires also have many lodgings, from grand resorts to B&Bs and private cottages.
Start with the Berkshire Visitors' Bureau, where the searchable lodging database includes a resort category. You also can book through a lodging reference service affiliated with the bureau; call (800) 237-5747. A vacation guide available through that number also describes resorts. (As with many visitors guides, remember that it may exclude properties that aren't members of the bureau.)
Among resorts:
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