Spa Avania at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale is undeniably gorgeous in its architecture and decor, and the nurturing time-of-day philosophy is undoubtedly brilliant. But I’d have to peg the people — from the reception staff to the highly skilled therapists — as the primary reason for the Avania experience being so emotionally elevating and memorable. […]
Fitness Instruction
StudioMixx Body Sculpting System
Always up for a challenge, I recently signed myself up for a StudioMixx Body Sculpting class and honestly, I get a little sore just thinking about it. I would consider myself active and in decent shape but this class truly kicked my butt – in a good way. If you enjoy a vigorous workout and welcome […]
The Spa at DC Ranch Village Health Club & Spa
First, let’s be clear. I’m no gym rat. I have a series of unsubstantiated fears that range from dropping a weight on my forehead to flying off the treadmill and ending up in a heap in front of some super jock. And in this particular joint, I also have a fear of looking fat. So […]
Arizona Biltmore Spa at the Arizona Biltmore Resort
Nothing like getting covered in honey and oats to cool you off on a sweltering summer day, and that’s exactly what I did during my visit to the Arizona Biltmore Spa. But first, I had to find the place. After parking, I wandered through the grounds past the lawn chess and croquet, through the Paradise […]
The Spa at Marriott’s Camelback Inn
If there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that locals and snowbirds alike have long loved the Spa at Camelback Inn. But on our first visit to this landmark haven in 2001, we were less than impressed with the cliche southwestern decor and the harried service (although the treatments were fabulous). So with the […]
The Spa at Gainey Village Health Club & Spa
A peaceful retreat that merges fitness with pure indulgence. The Spa at Gainey Village wins the wow award hands down. In front of this almost intimidating building was a not-so-little fellow glazed in bronze, sittin’ fit and lookin’ relaxed. Possibly a sign of my fate for the day. Not a bad outlook, I decide. First item […]
Tocasierra Spa, Salon and Fitness at Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort
Tocasierra Spa & Salon located on the sprawling property of Squaw Peak Pointe Hilton Resort is not your typical, everyday hotel spa. Upon my arrival, I was greeted warmly by the spa director and staff which immediately made me feel at ease. After giving me a tour of their newly remodeled, upscale digs, I was […]
Pilates Corps
It’s not exactly the newest fitness fad and in fact, Pilates has been around for decades since first developed by Joe Pilates in the 1920s. But over time, instructors have refined the practice and developed a style that works with our modern lifestyles. Pilates Corps in Scottsdale is among several Pilates-centric studios and we sent […]
Remedy Pilates & Massage
As I stepped out of my house to a glorious sunny and 80 degree day (thank you beautiful Arizona), it hit me: swimsuit season is just a few degrees away and I have in no way, shape or form begun toning and tightening for the occasion. Being a fan of mat Pilates and always a […]