Herbal wraps, mineral baths in Southern California - Last-Minute Vacation '91

Sunset, June, 1991

Herbal wraps, mineral baths in Southern California No other part of the country has as dense a concentration of spa resorts or as many choices of experience--from programmed pampering to sports conditioning, water and mud therapies to spiritual awareness.

At our press deadline, spas we called assured us of easy summer bookings. At Escondido's luxurious Golden Door ($3,750 a week), summer reservations can be made just weeks ahead. The Clarins spa in San Diego's waterfront Le Meridien hotel suggests a weekday package ($610 for three days), since non-spa guests fill its weekend reservations.

Some programs, welcome spouses and even children; others don't. Inquire about family-orinented programs, such as Father's Day week ($690) at the Oaks of Ojai, or mother-daughter days ($120 a day, 50 percent discount for each daughter) at the Palms at Palm Springs.

Meals--nearly always included--reflect guests' interests in nutrition and weight management. Inquire whether your hour of aerobics will be rewarded with a mid-morning broth break or gourmet-quality meals with recipes included. Besides asking for a rundown of sports and fitness offerngs, ask if the program includes messing with your mind, which can be a distinct plus or a turnoff depending on where you're coming from.

The best spa vacation book is Fodor's Healthy Escapes, by Bernard Burt (Fodor's Travel Publications, New York, 1991; $15). Or ask the San Diego visitors bureau for spas in that county; (619) 236-1212. Palm Springs Desert Resorts has an accommodations list that includes information on spa programs; summer heat usually means easy booking; 770-9000.