Overwhelmed by spa choices. Hate to spend so many $$ & be unhappy. Solo,prefer on or near ocean, activities, relaxation, spa treatments. (Hopefully 5 or so lbs.lighter) Need to return rejuvinated. Anyone with personal experiences? Thanks

The Ritz Carlton Naples has a beautiful spa, in a beautiful location- have fun!

As does the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay. The Doral Resort in Miami also has a great spa, and you're close to the great beaches in Miami Beach (South Beach).

Chiva Som Resort, Hua Hin, Thailand. A world-class health/spa/fitness resort that happens to also be a 5 Star hotel, not the other way around. They have their own chef doing low fat, low cal meals, you can even do a fasting plan. A tremendous range of treatments and exercise, including water aerobics, immersion tanks, etc. On a beautiful beach. This resort is consistently listed as one of the top health spas in the world. Take a look at chivasom.net.

The October 2003 issue of Travel and Leisure had a very long and comprehensive article ranking and rating spas all over the world.

I am sure you could contact them and get a copy of that issue.

Since you say you are traveling solo you might prefer a destination spa rather than a hotel location such as those mentioned by the previous posters. I have stayed at Miraval near Tucson a number of times. Not near an ocean but many activities, great but healthy food and very relaxing. Try calling Spa Finders. They helped me pick my first spa. If you call them and give them your list they will make suggestions to fit your idea of the best.

Or, go to Spafinders.com, the website. Overviews of amenities and links to spa websites, if the particular spa has one, are available. Then, once you've narrowed down your choices, do a Google search for reviews of that particlar spa. Happy hunting, and I'm envious!

P.S. Let us know where you go and how it was!

If I ever make a decision I will provide details. I've been on spafinders & they are all so costly that I want to make sure I choose the right one! Any more personal experinces? Thanks

Have been to Rancho La Puerta twice, and it is fabulous. A great destination for a single woman, since you meet so many wonderful and interesting women there. The programs are wonderful----including creative writing, personal growth, and interesting speakers, as well as physical exercise programs of all kinds, and spa treatments. It is like the best kind of "camp" for women, and you come home so restored and renewed.

Eden Roc right on the beach in Miami ( a little north of the SOBE area) has a very good spa. I have a spa fiend friend who loves it. I'll be there this coming weekend and will make a report.

I had a mediocre experience at the Ritz Spa in Naples and an exceptional one at the new Orlando Grande Lakes Ritz Spa. I think for the Ritz it is all in the management and availability of staff.

In SW Florida, I think the Stillwater Spa at the Hyatt Coconut Pointe is the best. My massages and body treatments there have been superior.

One of my favorite spa experiences in Florida was at Safety Harbor Spa. It is not on the ocean but on Tampa Bay. It is a true spa, not a hotel spa. You can have the full meal plan and have you meals in the communal dining room in your little robe and slippers. It was very comforting, the food was excellent and they use a true spring water from the Safety Harbor Spring. This might be what you are looking for. It is also more of a value than the others.

LMF