Travelers Advantage....

HEALTHY VACATIONS:
ARE GOOD FOR THE BODY & SOUL

Healthy vacations are in vogue these days, ranging from resorts with fitness centers to those with full spas and more. These types of retreats are on the rise, with the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the war in Iraq, and economic woes all adding to stress levels and the need for a vacation that’s more than just a day at the beach.

“Now, more than ever before, people need the comfort and healing that is offered in a spa environment,” says Lynne Walker McNees, executive director of the International SPA Association (ISPA). “ISPA’s studies show great growth in virtually every facet of the industry. More and more, we are seeing consumers seek the spa experience as a way to stay healthy and feel good about their bodies, minds, and spirits.”

McNees says healthy vacations in one place are a great way to go. “Many people do not have the time to spend visiting multiple places--now a woman or man can get their annual physical and, at the same time, treat themselves to a relaxing treatment such as a massage or facial.”

Spa and fitness vacations are available throughout North America. Traditional destinations include Florida, the northeast, Arizona, Las Vegas, California, and certain parts of Canada (the Ontario and British Columbia areas). However, virtually every part of the continent has seen strong interest at resorts and destinations, with spas and fitness centers seemingly opening somewhere almost every day. In addition, chains like Club Med, Hilton, Wyndham, Westin, Marriott, and many more have placed renewed emphasis on their spa and fitness facilities.

Along with these traditional healthy destinations and resorts of choice, Mexico has also seen tremendous growth. Specifically, the area of the Yucatan dubbed the Riviera Maya has seen significant interest from healthy vacationers.

For example, Spa Palace has been receiving rave reviews from visitors since its opening in late-2001. As the largest spa resort in North America, the adults-only Spa Palace breaks the mold of all-inclusive resorts by offering a complete spa revitalizing vacation. Spa Palace guests book the exact spa experience they desire through four varied all-inclusive spa packages, including luxurious accommodations, the finest health, fitness, and beauty programs, and full recreational facilities. Spa Palace guests can also enjoy the amenities of the other six all-inclusive properties of Palace Resorts.

Spa Palace provides just one example of how healthy vacations can be good for the body and soul.  Whether it's fitness or relaxation you're in need of, the experts at your travel service can help with all the destination planning.