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.

Toni

I've never been, but the Claremont (in Berkeley) is supposed to be fab!

http://www.claremontresort.com/

Rose,

There are several great spas that I have been to in San Jose. My favorite ones are:

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.

La Concha Inn and Spa(www.laconchaspa.com)
in the city's Willow Glen area.

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.