Happy Thursday Hidden Gem Travel community! As I write this newsletter, it’s a bleary day outside my window. If I could teleport myself somewhere, I would land at a spa right now. Typically when I travel, my schedule is packed with destination exploration, so spa time is a real treat.
Do you enjoy a spa vacation? Have you ever tried one? Wellness is a huge trend in the travel industry. This growth means that there are many choices for spa and wellness experiences. Some offerings are standard like massages and some are more creative like forest bathing.
Read on for the scoop highlighting a few of my own experiences and a link to an article by Virtuoso that lists some unique spa experiences to inspire your vacation…



Castle in Ireland
When I was in Ireland a year ago, I indulged in spa time at Ashford Castle. It’s ranked as the best hotel spa in Ireland. I had a glorious massage and time reading by the indoor pool which was heavenly.
The photos will give you more insight than words – a very special environment that overlooks the serene Irish countryside. The outside resembles an ornate hothouse that overlooks the lake.
Hidden Gem Travel clients receive valuable perks at Ashford Castle.
💎 Hidden Gem Tip: If you’re already intrigued, you can schedule a chat with me here: www.hiddengemtravelconsulting.com/contact.


Miraval Trio
I’ve written about Miraval Berkshires in the past and my spa time there in 2020. It was such a fantastic experience – it’s a new spa under the Hyatt umbrella. Hidden Gem Travel gets great perks at Miraval so be sure to contact me when you’re ready to recharge. Miraval is an ideal girl’s getaway too!
Hidden Gem Tip: Miraval has three destination spas: in addition to the Berkshires, there is Austin, Texas, and Tucson, Arizona.


Vitamin Sea
Fitness and spa experiences are a main pillar of the new ocean cruise line, Virgin Voyages. I had one of the best massages of my life while sailing around the Bahamas last December. I am a huge fan of Virgin Voyages – it’s adults only, has excellent cuisine and entertainment, and is decorated in fun, modern yacht-style.
I was so relaxed when I was in the spa that I forgot to take photos 🙂 So, I share one after a run on the outdoor track.
Birthday celebrations are so much fun on a 5-day Virgin Voyage out of Miami!


Desert Recharge
There are some fabulous spas in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area of Arizona, and the spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is one of them. It’s a huge, family and group-friendly property, and the spa is a sanctuary in the middle of all the fun activities.

Global Spa Vacation Inspiration
The bottom line is that wherever you find yourself in the world, I will help you find the wellness experience that’s right for you. Read this Virtuoso article for more wellness getaway inspiration: https://www.virtuoso.com/travel/articles/wellness-experiences-2021
Make your own Wanderlist for wellness destinations! As a reminder, Wanderlist is an online portal where you can research, explore, and create shareable lists of destinations and experiences. Share your list with me so I can make it happen for you! Check it out here: https://bit.ly/wanderlisthgtc
Inspired? Reach out to me now for 2023 and schedule a chat here: www.hiddengemtravelconsulting.com/contact
*Follow my Facebook/Instagram pages this week for more travel inspiration: www.facebook.com/hiddengemtravelconsulting or Instagram: www.instagram.com/hidden.gem.travel
Wishing you and your family continued good health,
Susan