I love to travel. I especially like to travel to relaxation destinations. Luckily, I have had the unique privilege to travel around the world, and much to my delight, have visited a day spa in just about every city I’ve traveled. As a self-proclaimed “spa snob”, I am very picky when it comes to choosing a spa, and I have strict criteria for spa offerings and amenities. I have experienced the best of the best, and unfortunately, the worst of the worst, and I like to think that I have a very good understanding of what a spa should be.

Las Vegas is not necessarily known for its day spas, but rather for its bright lights and fast-paced action, but as a scented candles and plush robe sort of a girl, I was bound and determined to find an oasis away from the chaos of the strip.  When I was planning my most recent trip to Vegas, I found and booked one of Red Rock Resort’s incredible Las Vegas Spa Packages that I just couldn’t resist.

I was giddy with excitement on the plane as I was eagerly awaiting the chance to unwind and relax. Upon my arrival, I admired the beauty of Red Rock’s hotel design as I was taken to my room, and the anticipation began building as I dreamed of the spa treatments I was going to indulge in. I settled in, and after a brief tour of the spacious spa, I relaxed my mind and body in preparation for my Shirodhara Hot Stone massage, to be followed up by their famed Tropical Body Glow treatment. The spa is filled with a palpable sense of relaxation and serenity. Even during the tour, I could feel my stress begin to melt away!

Immersed in the tranquil atmosphere of the spa, which is accented by an elegant, modern luxury, I was amazed with the quality of the treatments. In the Shirodhara Hot Stone Massage, they applied a splendid mineral infusion crystal gelee, and then massaged my body with hot stones. The personable staff made me feel completely at ease, and I was able fully melt into the comfy massage table. The Tropical Body Glow Treatment whisked me off to an island paradise. Cold-pressed virgin coconut oil, exotic nut extracts are used to deeply heal, nourish, moisturize and protect the skin. My skin felt years younger, and I felt like a brand new woman!

Until I visited Red Rock’s Spa, I had always been pampered at a different Vegas spa, which had been recommended to me by one of my spa-loving friends. Not far away from Red Rock is The Spa at Green Valley Ranch Resort. I had my first encounter with a Shirodhara Hot Stone Massage there a few years back and it’s been my favorite spa treatment ever since! Green Valley Ranch also offers unique treatments such as the Seaweed Detox Wrap, Hot Cinnamon Facial, and Swedish massage. Like Red Rock, their prices are very affordable and all of the treatments are heavenly, so you can’t go wrong with either of them!

In my travels I have also come across some other spas that stand out. The Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa in California’s beautiful wine country is another spa that offers wonderful treatments to soothe a weary soul. The two-hour Rejuvenator is my favorite! It includes an herbal facial, hot-oil hair mask, and scalp massage. Another great spa that makes my list is Canyon Ranch in the Berkshires. This Massachusetts spa is home to the Euphoria treatment, which wraps you in warm blankets with sage oil-soaked towels on your face, followed by a rose geranium scalp massage, a botanical body mask, a dip in a grapefruit-oil hydrotub, and a full-body massage. Delightful! I also thoroughly enjoy visiting Sea Island Spa at the Cloister in Georgia. I first went there while attending my cousin’s wedding in the area, and headed to the spa for the Soothing Sea Stones massage to ease any pre-wedding jitters.

If the thought of being pampered and total relaxation doesn’t sound very intriguing to you, then check out some of Red Rock’s adventure packages. Not big on candles and essential oils? No problem!  They have everything from kayaking to horseback riding through the gorgeous Red Rock Canyon. Red Rock does an incredible job of catering to all of its guests with something to satisfy everyone. Check out what they offer, but as for me, you can find me in the spa!