Tag Archives: relax

Go Green In Style At The High Line Park!

HighLine

The High Line is a public park built on an historic freight rail line elevated above the streets on Manhattan’s West Side. It is owned by the City of New York, and maintained and operated by Friends of the High Line. It is a great vantage point to look at New York from a different viewpoint. The High Line is fully wheelchair accessible.

The High Line is located on Manhattan’s West Side. The park runs from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District to West 34th Street, between 10th & 11th Avenues. The first section of the High Line opened on June 9, 2009. It runs from Gansevoort Street to West 20th Street. The second section, which runs between West 20th and West 30th Streets, opened June 8, 2011.

The summer hours for The High Line are in effect now with the park open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM. All ages can enjoy the beautiful High Line! Visit thehighline.org for more information.

Millennium Park

Many observers consider Millennium Park to be the city’s most important project since the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893. It far exceeded its originally proposed budget of $150 million. The final cost of $475 million was borne by Chicago taxpayers and private donors. The city paid $270 million; private donors paid the rest, and assumed roughly half of the financial responsibility for the cost overruns. The construction delays and cost overruns were attributed to poor planning, many design changes, and cronyism. Many critics have praised the completed park.

Get Mellow at Willow Spa

As you are driving on Santa Monica Boulevard looking for this spa, don’t expect to find it on the first level of a high rise or accompanying a gym. Willow Spa looks more like someone’s holistic house than a “top ten” rated spa in Los Angeles, but if you can gather your bearings, one visit to Willow Spa may change the way you live and the way you relax.

Known for its Asian-willow picinspired massages, facials and scrubs, Willow Spa is similar to others offering over-the-top treatments in luxurious surroundings. Though most spas open the door for you and close it when you leave just as fast, Willow Spa explains the importance of living well, while also indulging in such treatments. One of the greatest things about this spa- other than its tropical feel and décor- are the packages they put together, such as the Thai “Balance” package that is like a small vacay to paradise, featuring a Tamarind body scrub and Flower and Milk foot soak; or the specialized Bride & Groom package that offers a week by week “to-do” spa and relaxation experience before the big “I do’s.”

If you are ready to roll your eyes about how expensive this “luxurious” treatment is going to cost you, you might want to clasp those rolling eyes and take a look at the price menu. An hour massage is less than a hundred dollars which is considered a bargain, especially in this city. So the next time you are driving down Santa Monica in bumper to bumper traffic, look for the Asian-influenced cottage offering a home away from home… or at least a well-deserved pit stop.

Bryant Park Has the Best of Both Worlds

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Picture 6Watch out, Central Park. Sure, Bryant Park might not be New York’s most famous park, but definitely puts up some good competition. Here, it’s the best of both worlds: tall Manhattan skyscrapers surrounding a green lawn that features some of the most iconic New York events, like Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week and the HBO Summer Movie Screenings.

Just one block from Times Square, the park is a popular lunch break getaway for the suits and ties, eating at Top Chef’s Tom Colicchio’s casual ‘wichcraft or at the Bryant Park Grill’s enviable patio space. For those looking to relax and soak up the few rays of Manhattan sunshine, there’s free Wi-Fi access as well as intermittent racks of books (Bryant Park is directly behind the New York Library). For those with children, the custom-built carousel is a must.

Bryant Park is always alive; every season comes a new batch of highly anticipated and high quality events. In the summer, the HBO Summer Film Festival screens free films for those on the lawn, and various concerts, including the GMA Summer Series and Broadway in Bryant Park. If you come in the winter, there are the independent merchants at the Holiday Shops as well as The Pond, a free-admission ice-skating rink that has been touted as NYC’s best.

No Passports Needed at the European Buckhead Grand Spa

Picture 11Save your money on a plane ticket to Europe. Just a short drive to Buckhead is all you need to go to arrive at Atlanta’s version of a weekday getaway: Buckhead Grand Spa. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Peachtree Street is this luxurious European spa retreat that’s renowned for its aesthetically appealing environment, natural products, as well as its luxurious and health-restoring body treatments, facials and waxing.

Try the spa packages on a girl’s night out or live it up with a full day of pampering in peaceful solitude. Can’t make it out to the spa during the normal business hours? Don’t worry, special appointments can be made for hotel stays in the Buckhead area.

Christmas isn’t the only time for giving, give the gift of relaxation to your family, friends and coworkers anytime at the Buckhead Grand Spa.

Escape to the Italian Riviera at Fuga Salon & Spa

A mini-break to Italy is the goal of Fuga Salon & SPicture 6pa, which is the mastermind of Italiano Antonio Favaro when he arrived in the States just two years ago with one intention: provide the people of Chicago with a quick escape to Italy.

For starters take the complimentary espresso and panino coming straight from the spa’s very own Italian espresso bar. From there look ond pick your pleasure. The Fuga signature facial with Mediterranean essential oils is a favorite or maybe the “Juliet” is more your thing with more powerful resources like retinol and enzymes. For men, try the Cassanova facial to clear your mind (and your pores).

Here the world is really your Italian oyster. Massages (everything from sports to lymphatic), cellulite treatments, body wraps, waxing and top-notch hair design services will leave everyone with a little bit of  Sophia Loren in them. Mamma mia!

Pure Serenity at Historic Barnacle

Nestled in the quaint community of Coconut Grove is a jewel oBarnacle housef a park that takes visitors back to another era- and has one of the best bay views in the city. Wind down tree-lined Main Highway and come upon the Barnacle Historic State Park, once the home of pioneering Miamian Ralph Middleton Munroe, to catch a glimpse of life in Miami in the late 1800s.

The place has grounds that rival a scene from the Great Gatsby and the house is just as grand with a bird’s eye view of the bay from the home’s balcony, an open rotunda attic with wrap-around carved railings, skylights and intricate furnishings in every room. The boathouse, where Commodore Munroe built his vessels, and shaded pathways throughout the property add to the tranquil setting.

The Barnacle is more than simply a house to admire, they also house many activities that can make this landmark part of your weekly routine. Every week there is a yoga class that allows you to get the serenity and tranquility of the locale while also burning some serious calories. Throughout the year there are also many special concerts that take place on the grounds.

Enjoy the old and the new, but always a beautiful setting, at The Barnacle.

Say Goodbye to Winter Woes at Posh Spot

poshWinter brings dazzling lights, decadent treats and dreaded dry skin. The Posh Spot, located in the cozy Vinings area minutes from downtown, promises a luxurious and relaxing escape from the blistering cold. Services include a wide array of pampering selections for guests seeking a refuge from winter misery. An aromatherapy hand & foot treatment or even a fruit renewal manicure is the perfect end to a hectic holiday shopping weekend.

Ladies aren’t the only patrons that can enjoy themselves at the Posh Spot, the gentleman’s manicure and neck up scalp & facial treatment gives the guys a great excuse to stop by with or without their significant other. Check out their weekly promotions, aimed at divas on a dime who don’t clip coupons. Whether it be a manicure, facial or massage, Posh Spot invites you to make an appointment with the rejuvenating specialists that are highly skilled in defeating the winter woes.

Melt Away Stress at Swanky Camelot Salon & Spa

There’s nothing like ending a tough 40-hour work week (and let’s face it, they’re more like 60-hour work weeks) than with a nice trip to the salon or spa. A great place to get it all in one is at the swanky and elegant Camelot Salon & Spa in Coral Gables.

This salon has been getting it right for more than 17 years and it’s no wonder, the place is pure serenity. Single roPicture 4ses in crystal vases are displayed ever so elegantly in individually lit white display shelves, haircutting stations are outfitted with cherry wood mirrors and shelving is set up to create an element of privacy and one-on-one attention.

The spa area is an oasis of mellow blues and beiges and a high back wicker couch with comfortable off-white cushions. Manis and pedis are given on leather chairs and high back leather benches. Orchids, flowers and candles throughout Camelot complete the relaxing experience. Now it’s time to breathe in and say, Aaaaahhh.

Contemporary and Cool at Parc 55 Hotel

Sometimes all you want is a convenient and comfortable place to stay.  At the Parc 55 Hotel off Union Square, you’ll get all you need: central location, friendly service, modern style, and an uncluttered room with a view.

With its downtown location, Parc 55 is perfect for business and vacation travelers. You don’t have to walk far to experience the best of San Francisco: take a stroll to the Museum of Modern Art oParc55lounhrr Yerba Buena Gardens, enjoy downtown’s fashionable night scene, attend a function at the Moscone Convention Center or ride a cable car– just a block away.

Within the hotel, there is plenty of business space with 15 board-style meeting rooms.  You can also invite your friends up to the 31st floor club lounge for your birthday soiree or plan your wedding reception in the 5,610 square-foot grand ballroom.

At the end of the day, you’ll be pleased to enter a room that doesn’t overload your senses with stale air conditioning and dated floral prints.  Each of the hotel’s 1,010 rooms are the model of contemporary sophistication, having recently celebrated a $30 million renovation.

Parc 55 is so confident with their new look, they’ve hosted a 55-hour party in Union Square and even outfitted every room with a 36” plasma TV – show offs!

Artmore Hotel Brings Art to Life in Atlanta

New York CiPicture 14ty has the Statue of Liberty. San Francisco has the Bay Bridge. Atlanta’s work of art is the Artmore Hotel. Unlike many of the city’s boutique hotels, the Artmore takes its guests on an international journey all within city limits. The exterior is that of Spain, interior of Los Angeles, and the rooms look like a posh French apartment. Your next stay here will surely require that you kick back, relax and enjoy the stay.

Built in 1924, the former Granada Suites Hotel has transformed into a renovated urban retreat. The warm color palette of each room brings a romantic flavor to the stay. Each room includes complimentary WiFi, flat panel TV’s, an iPod docking station and awesome views of the Atlanta skyline.

Located minutes away from the city’s famed Atlantic Station shopping district, you won’t have to look too far for various ways to stay busy.

The Setai: The Anti-South Beach

Stepping away from the Art Deco theme and chaos that is SoPicture 9uth Beach is The Setai, a hotel created to soothe the mind, body, and soul of all who enter and arguably the best hotel in Miami- by miles. A zen-like atmosphere is evident the moment one touches the Asian-inspired front door handles and enters the hotel oasis to a chorus of soothing sounds echoing from the sound system.

Hard-working models, celebs, and professional athletes are among the regulars that come to enjoy the scenic Setai.

Through the floor-to-ceiling windows in the lobby is a serene open-air courtyard with a centerpiece fountain surrounded by intricately placed palm trees, backless, cushioned benches, and a large wooden bar in the rear.

The theme continues in the guestrooms where a minimalist approach, using jade and other Asian-inspired decorative pieces, contributes to an overall soothing experience.

The Setai proves a trip to Miami can be as relaxing as Thailand.

DC’s Only Pre-Revolutionary Home: The Old Stone House and Garden

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Picture 58Washington, D.C. may be named after America’s Revolutionary War Hero, but there’s only one building remaining from that period: The Old Stone House & Garden. Known as the last Pre-Revolutionary building standing in Washington, D.C. on its original foundation, this house has been a part of American history since the beginning.

In fact, part of the reason the house was preserved was due to local legend. According to the folklore, the architect of D.C., Pierre L’Enfant, stayed in the house while he was designing our nation’s capital. Although the legend proved to be false, it has still made a mark on the city.

Today, the house is host to a museum that recreates life in the late 1700s. The house is about 85% original to its 1700’s construction, and it is furnished to reflect upper-middle class living. It even contains a grandfather clock that was originally inside the house.

If the museum is not for you, the house also has a beautiful garden outside. Containing benches and flowerbeds, the caretakers have done a great job keeping the house as it was before America was the United States.

Enid A. Haupt Garden’s Unexpected Break From City Life

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There’s only one spot in DC where you can travel to China, Philadelphia and the 19th century all while on a rooftop. This break from city life can be had at the exquisite Enid A. Haupt Garden, filled with brick paths taking you to elaborate flowerbeds and exotic plants. Named after its donor, a noted supporter of horticulture, this garden offers something for everyone, from the avid horticulturist to someone just looking to relax.

With plant-filled urns, water fouPicture 57ntains and baskets hanging from reproduction 19th-century lampposts, the four-acre garden is actually located on the roofs of the National Museum of African Art, the Arthur M. Sackley Gallery and S. Dillon Ripley Center. Make sure to visit the Haupt Parterre that’s inspired by the design from the 1876 Centennial Exposition’s Horticultural Hall.

Also, make your way to the Moongate Garden (part of the Haupt Garden), inspired by the gardens and architecture of the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, China. Inside, there is a circular pool made out of granite that’s next to nine-feet tall pink granite moon gates.

Tours are offered every Wednesday during the summer. For those who just want to sit and relax, there are plenty of benches as well as Wi-Fi access throughout the garden.

Hotel Allegro

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Picture 13The second you step foot into Allegro Hotel, you’ll find yourself in the lap of luxury. Take advantage of personal assistant services, a state-of-the-art on-site fitness center, and a spa where you can relax and reboot. Located in the heart of Chicago’s theater district, you’ll have entertainment right outside your door.

Stellar Service at Andre Chreky Salon

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With luxuries like grand piano music, cappuccino, espresso and fine Picture 6pastries, you may want to book a vacation at the Andre Chreky Salon instead of just a massage. This salon and day spa indulges everything from hair and nails to face and body.

Andre Chreky’s philosophy of stellar service for star clients can be seen any day of the week, with Mr. Chreky himself making an almost constant personal presence in the salon. The  Andre Chreky Salon offers express services, extended hours, fuss-free maitenance, discretion, and luxury so that each client leaves feeling like a VIP.

Try an herbal body wrap, complete with a highly concentrated aromatherapeutic serum to ensure hydration. Spoil yourself or someone you love with a package to relax, renew and rejuvenate the mind and body.

DC’s Chic, Sleek Spa: SomaFit

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Work or play, SomaFit has your body’s needs covered. You can start off with a killer workout in their fitness facilities then grab a healing Carnio Sacral Massage and top off the day with a treat, like the glowing Oxygen Facial. It doesn’t need to be an all day excursion (although that’s always on top of the wish list), you can stop in to get an express manicure or pedicure.

At SomaFit you can buy a fitness package and take a class in a Kukuwa dance workout or body sculpting, then reward yourself with pampering. Now, that’s taking care of your body.