Spa- Bay Area
 

My good friend is moving to the Bay area. As a going away gift, I'd like to get her a gift certifcate from a spa in the area. What place have you been? What were the pros and cons.

Without a doubt, Mr. Chin's near Nob Hill. It's the best! If price is a consideration, Nordstrom in the San Francisco Center gives wonderful Hot Stone Massages in their Spa. Ask for Judy.<BR><BR>Toni

I've never been, but the Claremont (in Berkeley) is supposed to be fab!<BR><BR>http://www.claremontresort.com/

Rose,<BR><BR>There are several great spas that I have been to in San Jose. My favorite ones are:<BR><BR>Dolce Vita (www.dolcevitaspa.com)near the Civic Center. It's close to both Downtown and Japantown which makes it convenient if you want to go for a meal after a relaxing spa treatment.<BR><BR>La Concha Inn and Spa(www.laconchaspa.com)<BR>in the city's Willow Glen area. <BR><BR>

There's a place less than an hour above SF caled Osmosis that does something called a Japenese enzyme bath. Sort of like being buried in sand at the beach, but without the weight. After tea in a zen garden you are covered with rice bran that has enzymes added that create the warmth. Attendant mops your brow and offer sips of ice water. Follow with a tremendous massage or a banket wrap. (I always go for the massage) Their website is www.osmosis.com and reservations are essential. It's a treatment-focused spa, not a beauty salon, and I go whenever I can get there.

Spa inside Nordstrom is fabulous.

My favorite is the Kabuki Springs Spa in Japantown in San Francisco. Their website is www.kabukisprings.com. They have a traditional Japanese bath, with steam rooms, etc., and wonderful facials and massages. It's a great experience. I've also heard great things about Mr. Chin's.