The past two years have been a lot and we could all use a little rest and relaxation. And with the holiday season upon us and 2021 coming to a close, what better way to treat yourself than with some pampering? Whether you want to spend the day getting luxurious treatments in a stunning spa or just lounging pool — or beach — side is your thing, here are the destinations all around the world where you can unwind and start the new year feeling refreshed, while following current safety guidelines and recommendations.
Hotel Christopher Saint Barth
A quiet respite from the island’s renowned party scene, The Christopher is located on the Pointe Milou peninsula, with breaking ocean views and a peaceful Caribbean vibe. Featuring 23 rooms, 19 suites and 3 villas, The Christopher gives guests the best of St. Barth’s while also offering moments of serenity thanks to the newly opened Sisley Spa where guests can indulge in the signature Hot Shell Massage, along with Essie nail treatments. Don’t miss the sunset from the hotel’s lounge or dinner at RIVYERA restaurant. Tres magnifique. hotelchristopher.com
Castle Hot Springs
It’s all about the water treatments at this desert oasis, located in Arizona’s Sonoran Desert. The world-class mineral hot springs at this spa destination give weary guests a chance to rejuvenate, with more than 200,000 gallons of mineral-rich water that flows into the thermal pools — ranging in temperature from 86 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit. Want some more activity? There are also yoga classes, horseback riding, archery, hiking and a cable climbing course for those feeling more adventurous. castlehotsprings.com
Four Seasons RESORT Maui AT WAILEA
If you have seen the HBO series White Lotus, then you are already familiar with the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea — the show was filmed at the property. Located on 15 acres on the coast of Maui’s Wailea, the oceanfront property is committed to all things wellness. The spa program offers everything from the massages (including the Oceanside Bliss, performed in a seaside open-air hut) and facials to reiki, chiropractic services and acupuncture. Now, the hotel has teamed up with Next|Health to provide customized IV treatments, vitamin shots and biomarker tests. fourseasons.com
Acqualina
Need to escape the winter cold but don’t want to travel outside the country? Acqualina Resort in Miami’s Sunny Isles Beach is the ultimate respite from the chilly weather. Head South for a long weekend and enjoy everything from cryotherapy and massages to a deep-cleansing custom HydraFacial. Make sure to check out the resort’s Boutique featuring brands including Vilbrequin, Hester Bly, Miguelina and PatBo. acqualinaresort.com
Nayara Springs
Since opening in 2013, Nayara Springs in Costa Rica has become the go-to destination for wellness seekers. With views of the famed Arenal volcano, the wellness program at Nayara Springs is inspired by the four elements — water, fire, earth, and air — and includes yoga, meditation, sound therapy and spa treatments along with Ayurvedic-inspired meals and detox juices. The resort’s 35 luxury villas each come with private plunge pools, fed but the nearby natural hot springs, as well as a private garden and refreshing outdoor shower. Pura vida, indeed. nayarasprings.com
Banyan Tree Mayakoba
Conveniently located on Mexico’s Riviera Maya, the Banyan Tree Mayakoba is nestled safely in a Balinesian-style property complete with Mayan influence and all of the comforts sought out by wellness travelers. Guests are provided with bicycles to explore the grounds, which includes private pool villas, an oceanfront dining pavilion and the most comfortable beachside loungers. The spa offerings are extensive, with Indonesian, Mexican and Thai styles available to suit all needs including the Rainforest Indulgence, a hydrothermal therapy including a full body scrub and Signature Candle Massage. banyantree.com
La Samanna
Belmond are leaders in the hospitality world, and the La Samanna resort in St Martin is taking wellness to another level with the LaSamanna Spa’s Energetic Re-Mastery program. Led by resident energy healer Christine Caruso, guests at the property on St Martin’s Baie Longue Beach can choose from a variety of offerings including Kundalini yoga, Point of Origin meditation and Sacred Stone Activation along with the soothing Energy Rebalancing Massage and the Just Leaving facial treatment. Belmond.com
Royal Mansour
The Royal Mansour in Marrakech should be on the bucket-list for any traveler. Not only is this property stunning and as Instagram-worthy as they come, but the wellbeing programs at the spa are unparalleled. The three-story space, which resembles a white birdcage, provides guests with traditional hamman treatments using natural Moroccan ingredients; for those looking to dive deeper, the Rebalance, Rejuvenation and Immunity Boost programs offer a 360-degree approach with top-notch treatments, nutrition and activities including cooking classes and art therapy. royalmansour.com
The Boca Raton
Just in time for the hectic holiday season, The Boca Raton will reopen on December 17th following a $200 million renovation and under new ownership — complete with new dining concepts from Major Food Group, a waterpark with a lazy river and the stunning Spa Palmera. The 55,000-square foot wellness, designed by lifestyle expert Colin Cowie, features Sound Therapy and a luxurious Moroccan Restorative Body treatment as well as multiple fitness centers and an on-site OrangeTheory studio. thebocaraton.com
BLACKBERRY FARM
There’s a reason Blackberry Farm is one of the most sought-after destinations in the US — the 4,200-acre property in the Great Smoky Mountains is breathtaking and the care taken by the family-run team is unmatched. With a range of activities including horseback riding, fly fishing, cycling and a clay course, active travelers will be in heaven. For those looking to unwind, The Wellhouse features a Tranquility Room, fitness center and herb garden; the Healing Herbs & Flowers Massage and the Natural Farm-Fresh Facelift are not to be missed. There are even activities for the little ones, making Blackberry Farm the ultimate family getaway. blackberryfarm.com
