Often times travelers searching for a true spa experience are disappointed by the Hotel or Resort Spa concept. Michelle Kleist, Executive Director of Destination Spa Group, states �Frankly, it is because the decision to attend the spa was based on a magazine recommendation or price tag, not realizing that all �spas� are not created equal.�

In an effort to clear the confusion, a group of spas previously considered competitors, ranging from Canyon Ranch to Golden Door, have joined forces. Now consumers have the resources to select a Destination Spa � as distinct from a Resort Spa, which are found at thousands of hotels and resorts.

Destination Spas � in contrast � are dedicated spas, where the whole environment is geared towards fitness, healthy eating, relaxation and renewal. As Americans continue to search for healthy lifestyle choices, spa vacations appear to have eclipsed cruise travel as well as both ski and golf vacations as a vacation of choice, in terms of dollars spent.

In response, the coalition, Destination Spa Group (DSG) has established resources to help consumers navigate the possibilities of spa travel. A website found at www.destinationspas.com; a free information and referral service: 888-772-4363, and a travel guide: Destination Spa Vacations, are now available.

The website and travel guide point out that not all Destination Spas are alike. Each has its own personality and charm. Some are large and luxurious, others intimate and rustic. Some focus on hiking, others on pampering. Some feature a structured schedule, others have a more free-form approach. And Destination Spas are located in the most beautiful places on Earth, mountains and deserts, by lakes and oceans.

Mrs. Kleist explained that Destination Spa Group offers three resources to help answer the one most-frequently asked question among potential spa travelers, �Which spa is right for me?�

DESTINATION SPA REFERRAL SERVICE (TOLL FREE 888-772-4363) is a free information and referral service. Representatives personally answer a variety of questions regarding the top Destination Spas in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The Destination Spa Referral Service is open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST.

WWW.DESTINATIONSPAS.COM is an informative website complete with photographs, rates, general information, direct links and telephone numbers for all 25 member spas. Each week two new spas are profiled in-depth and every month special offers are posted from various spas. Visitors can order the Destination Spa Vacations magazine, sign up for the monthly DSG e-newsletter, read spa-related articles, order gift certificates, discover healthy spa cuisine recipes, search for specific information about the spas and ask questions or request more information via e-mail.

DESTINATION SPA VACATIONS is a glossy, four-color travel guide to 25 Destination Spas. With more than 70 pages, the beautiful publication offers a comprehensive two-page description of each of the member spas, including large color photographs, a summary of the facility, amenities and accommodations, an explanation of services and activities, plus addresses, phone numbers, nearest airports and rates. As a bonus, readers can enjoy a variety of health- and spa-related articles and delicious and healthy spa cuisine recipes. Destination Spa Vacations is available at bookstores and newsstands across the country with a list price of $5.95. Destination Spa Vacations can also be purchased from the Destination Spa Referral Service or www.destinationspas.com.

The Destination Spa Group is an organization of 25 Destination Spa owners dedicated to educating the public about the lasting benefits of a true Destination Spa vacation and defining the Destination Spa experience. Member spas must meet specific criteria for membership and be committed to providing a health renewing experience.

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Media Contact: Michelle Kleist +1 888-772-4363 michelle@destinationspagroup.com