Lose Weight, Keep Wallet Fat
This is the bargain time to use weight loss spas
— -- Value-conscious travelers looking to tone up, trim down or de-stress needn't wait till New Year's resolution time, when spa reservation phone lines get a workout.
The Thanksgiving-New Year's period, when America is gorging and gathering with family and friends, is typically slow at spas. And many run specials this time of year.
A sampling:
•Red Mountain Spa in St. George, Utah, has daily rates starting at $259 a person Dec. 1-27. That includes lodging, all meals, unlimited classes, guided hikes in red-rock country about two hours from Las Vegas, lectures, use of the gym, plus a massage or facial. Last-minute getaways without spa treatments included start at $229 a person, double, through Dec. 27 (800-407-3002; you can save 5% by booking online at redmountainspa.com).
•Miraval Resort (formerly Miraval Life in Balance) outside Tucson, an Oprah Winfrey favorite, is tossing in a fourth night free with a three-day booking on many dates in November and December. Rates at the desert spa (miravalresort.com) start at $595 a person, including luxury accommodation, airport transfers, meals, activities and classes, plus $110 off a spa service or round of golf for each person. Book with the code "winter" via 800-232-3969.
•The Pritikin Longevity Center & Spa near Miami, which has hosted movie critic Roger Ebert and director Michael Moore, is giving guests $500 off per week Dec. 22-March 22. Weekly rates start at about $4,000 a person and cover lodging, meals and snacks, comprehensive fitness and health evaluation, classes, counseling and use of a private beach club. Information: 800-327-4914; pritikin.com.
•Lake Austin Spa Resort near Austin is slashing prices by 30% on stays of three nights or longer in premier accommodations Dec. 10 to Dec. 26. Discounted rates start at $1,260 a person for three nights, including lodging, meals, activities and classes. Spa services are à la carte or can be included in pricier packages. Book at lakeaustin.com or 800-847-5637.
•La Costa Resort and Spa near San Diego is offering a holiday-season family package from $619 a night (two bedrooms and baths plus sitting area and daily breakfast for two adults and two children). Spa treatments are extra.Information: 800-854-5000 or lacosta.com.
