A destination spa is a business establishment which people visit for personal health, life enhancement, fitness, personal care treatments such as massages, facials, in a resort setting. Destination spas offer an all-inclusive program that includes facilitated fitness classes, healthy cuisine, educational classes and seminars as well as similar services to a beauty salon or a day spa. Guests reside and participate in the program at a destination spa instead of just visiting for a treatment or pure vacation. Destination spas are often in exotic locations or in spa towns. Resort spas are generally located in resorts and offer similar services via rooms with services, meals, and fitness a la carte.
Other types of spas include day spas, club spas, cruise ship spas, medical spas, and mineral spring spas. Normally typical services includes:
- nutrition counseling
- weight loss
- medical treatment
- fitness consultation
- cooking lessons
- massage
- reflexology
- facials — facial cleansing with a variety of products
- nail care
- waxing — the removal of body hair with hot wax
- body treatments such as body wraps, aromatherapy
- skin exfoliation — including chemical peels and microdermabrasion
The North Coast: Casa Colonial Beach & Spa
Playa Dorada Puerto Plata Property Details:
Casa Colonial Beach & Spa is situated in the Playa Dorada Beach Resort complex on the rugged, overgrown northern coast of Dominican Republic. This two-and-a-half-acre all-suit spa destination services as a boutique alternative to the all-inclusive model that reigns on the island. Here, upscale public areas such as a lounge-like lobby with white columns local flavor with a discerning sense of style. Spacious, secluded gardens and a private beach area further distinguish the property from the larger resorts that surround it. A rooftop infinity-edge pool surrounded by whirlpools provides commanding sea views.
The 11.500-square-foot (1.068 square meters) Bagua Spa derives its name from a concept in feng shui, according to which the spa was designed. Indigenouspa services are performed in indoor treatment rooms and outdoor treatment gazebos. Just steps away from the spa, a fully equipped gymnasium offers a full range of cardiovascular equipment. Couples can enjoy a selection of pampering treatments fotr two in addition to an intimate dinner at the resort`s innovative Asian-fusion restaurant. The property is situated just outside of Puerto Plata, which is famous for its water sports and its mysterious jungle and mountain landscape.
Activities & Facilities:
Casa Colonial is meant to accommodate all types of luxury travelers, from the stressed-out executive looking for stress-free spa luxury to the adventuresome vacationer. A cordoned-off section of beach is available to guests who want to catch some rays or waves. High above sea level, the rooftop infinity-edge pool with four surrounding whirlpools is protected from the elements by a clear glass wall, allowing for panoramic sea views and all-weather swimming. The pensive will find food for reflection in the property¨s placid garden area, which is dotted with pink orchids and shaded by swaying palm trees.
Part of the Playa Dorada complex, an 18-hole golf course is adjacent to the resort. The complex also encompasses casinos, bars and restaurants Convenient carriage cars transport guests throughout the 250-acre complex.
Given its name by Christopher Columbus, who was impressed by its early-morning cloudscapes, Puerto Plata (Spanish for "Silver Port") is just a few minutes drive from the resort. Here, attractions such as the Amber Museum, dedicated to the gemstone that is among this region`s most distinctive natural resources, and a popular rum factory celebrate the landscape and flavors of the Dominican Republic. The San Felipe Fort, constructed in the 16th century, was one of the first of its kind built by European settlers in the New World.
Throughout the areas, world-class water sports can be enjoyed, including coral reef scuba diving, world-class windsurfing, sailing, and waterskiing.
Spa Details:
The Bagua Spa`s contemporary design concept and treatment menu were inspired by the Dominican Republic`s Amber coast, which encompasses Puerto Plata and several other popular destinations along the island`s north coast. Many of the distinctive elements found along the Amber Coast are incorporated into both signature services and the spa`s feng shui-inspired design, including royal jelly, honey, ocean water, and, of course, amber gemstones. Ten indoor treatment areas (including two private cuople`s suites with whirlpool and ocean views) and three outdoor gazebos are peaceful environments in which to enjoy spaindulgences.
The well-known anti-aging properties of amber are utilized in the 50-minute Salt an Gem Exfoliation treatment, in which a combination of crushed amber resin and ocean salts are applied to remove dead skin cells and restore radiance to the skin. The signature 75-minute Bagua Cleansing Ritual is a detoxifying treatment performed in several stages: An initial sauna session is followed by a salt scrub, full body mud application, and a concluding spa shower.
Couple`s massage is offered either in the spa`s oceanfront gazebos or in the privacy of a guest room. A warm botanical soak enriches the intimacy of a soothing classical massage or a hybrid modality drawn from several Eastern cultures.
A fitnness center provides a state-of-the-art experience complete with stunning views. Guests can also luxuriate in a rooftop infinity-edge pool that overlooks the Caribbean-Sea.
The East Coast: Six Senses Spa at the PUNTACANA Hotel
Abraham Lincoln No. 960, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Property Details:
The 19,400-square-foot (1,802 square meters) Six Senses Spa at the PUNTACANA Hotel offers Asian-inspired spa luxury in keeping with the international reputation earned by the award-winning Six Senses Spa brand. Holistic, all-natural spa treatments in both indoor and outdoor settings complement the ecological consciousness that the governs the resort`s overarching concept. Signature spa "journeys" use exclusive Sodashi products with no synthetic ingredients as well as natural Thai herbs and fresh fruit from a garden located on the premises.
PUNTACANA offers a wide variety of vacation packages designed to be affordable for the whole family. Kid`s programs are available daily so parents can keep the little ones entertained while enjoying spa treatments or a lazy, sun-baked day loungingon the property`s five-mile white sand beach. The natural beauty and wildlife of the Dominican Republic is there to be enjoyed at the resort`s 600-acre ecological reserve, which also features a natural spring and hiking pathways.
Activities & Facilities:
The PUNTACANA Hotel`s wide selection of leisure activities provides both the luxury recreation of a world-class resort and outdoor experiences specific to the region that are enabled by the resort`s eco-conscious ethic. Six limestone tennis courts are available for play or lessons during the day for no additional charge. The 18-Hole championship golf course is peppered with coconut palm trees swaying in the breeze coming off of the ocean, to which four holes are directly adjacent.
An on-property horse ranch offers riding lessons and excursions for young and old, experienced equestrian and novice alike. A two-hour ride traverses the expansive white sand beach. Should the turqoise waters found there prove attractive to guests, a wide range of water sports (including sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking) can be enjoyed. The diving center offers two daily excursions: one to a nearby sunken ship, and another to an offshore eight-kilometer (five miles) coral reef.
The 600-acre ecological reserve showcases the exotic natural splendor of the Caribbean`s flora, fauna, and distinctive animal life. Highlights include a tropical forest, iguana habitat, and a natural spring known for its crystal-clear waters in which visitors can swim.
A daily Kid`s club entertains children aged four to 12 with activities such as boat rides, horseback riding, painting classes, and beach sports, allowing parents to enjoy the tranquil beach or a spa treatment for two.
Spa Details:
Located in the resort clubhouse, Six Sense Spa`s 19,400-square-foot facility (opened in 2005) interacts with its surrounding environment of Caribbean splendor. This location, like its sister spas in fine vacation destinations around the globe, employs a team of therapists from Asia and Europe who are trained in the customized Asian-thermed services that distinguish the world-renowned Six Senses brand. Eight indoor treatment areas include a room set aside for Thai massage (a Six Sense Specialty), a beauty room, and five spacious yet intimate treatment rooms designed with couples in mind. Two outdoor treatment palapas(open-sided thatched structures) with private baths are situated on the beach, surrounded by herb garden and tropical foliage.
A variety of distinctive spa packages is offered, each of which features a host of exotic, rejuvenating add-ons. The Essence of Six Senses is a seven hour package that takes place both indoors and outdoors. In addition to hydrotherapy, Energy Chakra Balancing (with guest`s choice of bodywork), ear candling, and Facial Cleanse and Massage, the Essence package pampers inside and out with hand and foot treatments, spa lunch, champagne, and chocolate. The two-hour couple`s package includes a Flower bath for two, full-body Calming Massage, light spa cuisine, and champagne.
PUNTACANA Resort & Club has four pools for guest use, including one located near the tennis courts and another near guest accommodations. At the resort, guest can also take advantage of fully equipped fitness center open daily.
The South Coast: Coral Costa Caribe Resort All inclusive
Beachfront Resort with lively casino and disco
Juan Dolio, Dominican Republic
Property Details:
What to expect: Close enough to Santo Domingo for shopping excursions, the resort has an urban feel, exemplified by the casino and disco, both open until 4 AM. The casino glitters under a partly mirrored ceiling and contains 56 slot machines, eight blackjack tables, two Caribbean poker table, four roulette wheels, a craps table, and a poker table. The resort`s large disco, Skape, offers a raised dance floor and banquette seating.
Amenity highlights: Tarned by a long, artificial reef, th Caribbean gently laps the beach, creating ideal conditions for adult paddlers and children. Three pools, two along the beach and a third "quiet pool" near the casino, are alternatives to the sea.
Insider Tip: Nearly concealed by gardens and dicovered by most guests, two isolated, cool-water, 10-person spa tubs - bordered by rocks and palm trees and paired with sundecks - offer tranquil hideaways.
The majority of amenities, activities, and gratuities at this resort are included in the room rate; guests will not be charged extra for the majority of amenities and activities.
Located in the tourist development of Juan Dolio beach, this rose-colored resort offers 532 guestrooms in four buildings of four, five, and six stories (with elevators). Facilities include a 24-hour sports bar, supervised children`s club, an open-air stage with plaza seating for nightly shows, a massage center, and a beauty salon.
Ground transportation:
Shuttle vans or private cars of varying prices are available. They can be selected during the process of booking an all-inclusive reservation for this Costa Caribe Coral by Hilton, and added to the total trip cost.
See a list of property amenities:
* Fitness equipment * Swimming pool - outdoor * Swimming pool - children`s * SPA tub
* Massage treatment * Swim-up bar * Currency exchange * Nightclub
* Pool table * Internet access surcharge * Multilingual Staff * 24-hour front desk
* Banquet facilities * Medical assistance available * Porter/Bellhop * Security guard
* Bar/Lounge * Babysitting or Child care * Confgerence rooms * Audio-visual equipment
* Hair salon * ATM/Banking * Concierge Services * Gift shops or newsstand
* Shopping on site * Buisness Center * Internet access public areas * Number of rooms : 532
* Tour assistance * Beauty Center * Kid`s Club * Dry cleaning service
* Caters to singles * Caters to couples * Caters to families * Caters to groups
* Casino
Rooms:
The majority of ameneties, activities, and gratuities at this Coral Costa Caribe Resort All inclusive are included in the romm rate; guests will not charge extra for the majority of amenities and activities.
This resort features 532 guestrooms with garden or sea views. Rooms all have furnished balconies or patios, and are finished with colored walls, tile floors, rattan and dark-wood furniture, and tropical prints.
Rooms provide sodas, water beer (two each per day) but minibars stocked with premium beverage and wine incur surcharges. Telephones have dataports for dial-up Internet access (surcharge). In-room safes incur surcharges. Bathrooms offer tub/shower combinations.
Room Amenities:
* Cable/satellite TV * Wake-up calls * Hair dryer * Housekeeping
* Telephone * Internet access - dial-up * Private bathroom * Smoking rooms
* Climate Control * Voice Mail * Rollaway beds on request * Cribs (infant beds)
* Bottled water in room * Air conditioning * In-room safe surcharge * Balcony or Patio
* Ceiling Fan * Internet access - sucharge * Minibar surcharge * Coffee/Tea maker
* Complimentary toiletries * Makeup mirror * Shower/Tube combination * Iron/ironing board
* Window opens * Clock radio * Bathroom telephone
Dining:
AMBAR - This open-air restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffets, with theme selections presented in the evenings.
SANTA FE GRILL® - With both indoor and outdoor seating, this restaurant serves Tex-Mex à la carte dinner. Seating depends on availability. Dress code: Long pants and sleeved shirts for men. Includes La Cantina Bar open from late morning to late night.
Rigoletto Pasta Club® - This restaurant serves pasta specialities for à la carte dinner. Seating depends on availability. Dress code: Long pants and sleeved shirts for men.
El Fogon® - Located above Ambar restaurant, this intimate, air-conditioned restaurant combines brocade linens, a wood floor, and copper-colored exposed ductwork for a rustic/elegant ambience. Serves dinner only, with Dominican menu. Seating depends on avaulability. Dress code: Long pants and sleeved shirts for men. Overnight snacks are served next to this restaurant.
Mangos® - This casual beachfront snack bar features barbecue and pizza during the afternoon and re-opens late at night for fast foods until breakfast service begins in Ambar.
Garden Bar - Open over the lunch period and then again during the evenings.
Coco Bar - Open while the Ambar buffet restaurant is open.
Bohio Bar - Open from mid-morning until late night.
Skape Disco Bar - Late night dancing and music.
Sports Bar - located in the main building, this bar is open 24 hours for televised sports and games of pool.
Checkpoint Bar - located in the conference room area, this bar is open for special events only.
Policies:
Extra-person charges may apply depending on hotel policy.
Rollaway beds and cribs (infant beds) may be available and should be requested at the time of booking; fees may apply.
Photo identification and credit card or cash deposit are required at check-in for incidental charges.
Special requests are subject to availablility upon check-in. Special requests made via Internet cannot guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
* Check-in time is 3 PM
* Check-out time is noon
  
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