Just as frequent spa-goers could recite the vast differences between a hot stone massage and a deep tissue, so could they explain that destination spas and resort spas are two wonderful, but very different, spa experiences. Luckily, Perfect Escapes wants to ensure every luxury traveler gets exactly what he or she is looking for, so here is a rundown of the intricacies and delights of each type of spa experience…

Destination spas are destinations designed for guests who seek total immersion in a spa experience. They offer an adult environment where the emphasis is on getting and staying healthy. These spas are intended to be the destination and not simply an added bonus to a vacation. As such, destination spas offer guests a wide range of therapeutically oriented activities to keep them occupied. These activities are intended to help guests find inspiration and become energized among a like-minded community of participants. They equally balance spa treatments with health-building activities such as education and seminars, exercise routines, and meditation to create an overall sense of growth and inner peace.

Most destination spas include lodging, meals, programs and some spa treatments in their base rates. Guests average longer visits to a destination spa with stays commonly being five days to multiple weeks. Destination spas are a great way to address particular health issues or initiate a healthier lifestyle. While much time is spent looking inward, destination spas are also a good way to enjoy the company of a close friend or partner looking to achieve the same relaxation and rejuvenation goals.

Resort spas, on the other hand, are for those guests seeking to enjoy some spa treatments as part of their overall experience. They often offer a family environment and a full range of dining and recreational experiences in addition to the on-site spa, such as golf and tennis. These spas offer a great way to pamper oneself as part of a larger getaway and are for the less formal spa-goer. So if you want to work those muscles playing sports, expand your mind site-seeing or simply relax on the beach, a resort spa often has all those activities close at hand, and you can go back to the resort for a body treatment to heal from all those adventures.

Most resort spas offer spa packages that bundle room nights and spa treatments but most guests book spa treatments separately from their lodging. Either way, be sure to book spa treatments ahead of your stay as they are generally difficult to get last minute due to limited treatment rooms and staff.

Need further help deciding whether a destination spa or a resort spa is for you?
- Go to a destination spa to rid your body of toxins. Go to a resort spa to tie on a couple of intoxications.
- Go to a resort spa to dine on lamb chops dressed in lemongrass. Go to a destination spa to nibble on lettuce dressed in grass with lemon.
- Go to a destination spa OR a resort spa for a perfect escape.

Top Destination Spas
If you are looking for an ultimate spa getaway, then consider a trip to any of these twelve amazing spas whose focus is on personal wellness and growth.

Agua Spa at the Delano Hotel, Miami Beach, Florida
Amandari, Bali, Indonesia
Brenner’s Park Hotel & Spa, Baden-Baden, Germany
Canyon Ranch, Tucson, Arizona
Canyon Ranch, Lenox, Massachusetts
Chiva-Som International Health Resort, Hua Hin, Thailand
Lake Austin Spa Resort, Austin, Texas
Mii Amo at Enchantment Resort, Sedona, Arizona
Miraval Resort, Tucson, Arizona
Plateau at Grand Hyatt, Hong Kong

Top Resort Spas
If you are looking to enjoy a terrific spa as part of a greater getaway, then consider staying at one of these twelve properties or go to Perfect Escapes for a list of great spas at many luxury hotel properties:

American Club, Kohler Waters Spa, Kohler, Wisconsin
Bacara Resort & Spa, Santa Barbara, California
Bathhouse at Calistoga Ranch, Napa Valley, California
Boulders Resort & Golden Door Spa, Carefree, Arizona
Esperanza, An Auberge Resort, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Fairmont Banff Springs, Willow Stream Spa, Canada
Hotel Le Sirenuse, Aveda Concept Spa, Positano, Italy
One&Only Ocean Club, Paradise Island, Bahamas
Spa at the Mandarin Oriental, New York City
Spa Halekulani, Honolulu, Hawaii
Banyan Tree Phuket, Thailand
Canyon Ranch SpaClub at the Palazzo Las Vegas, Nevada

By Eric Jeck, CEO for Perfect Escapes