Spa breaks: a fantastic way to celebrate

If you're searching desperately for an original idea for a birthday bash or a bachelorette party, you'll understand that it can be difficult for a host or hostess to come up with an idea that will knock your guests off their feet. However, there is one party idea that is sure to impress your guests, whatever the occasion: the idea of the spa party has gradually gathered momentum in recent years, and more women - and men - are indulging in a bit of pampering with their pals as a way of celebrating an important occasion. Traditionally, day spas and spa resorts are zones of relaxation, where guests can unwind and enjoy a host of luxurious care treatments, including facials and massages. But while today's spas have connotations of significant luxury and indulgence, historically, "spa towns" in Europe were visited for health reasons. The name 'spa' originates from the town of Spa in Belgium, which was famous for its hot thermal baths (hydrotherapy) and mineral water treatments (balneotherapy). While the healing property of spa waters was, for the most part, a European phenomenon, many hot springs across the United States have properties that are suitable for hydrotherapy because of their high mineral content. Today, the modern spa has evolved into an attractive tourist destination, while the scientifically-proven medical value of spa waters and hot springs makes them popular as rehabilitation clinics. Spa parties can involve groups of all sizes - from few to many people - and can be a great way to get friends to relax together and take some time out from their daily routines. In fact, some modern day spas are often considered as much like beauty salons as centres of tranquillity and peacefulness. Common treatments available at a spa include massages, facials, waxing, aromatherapy and skin exfoliation. Spa massages are particularly popular, especially with groups of friends on a spa outing. The range of massages available at spas today is immense, with various massage techniques from a number of countries on offer: Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Swedish and Thai massage techniques are falling into prominence in many spas, and each offers its own specific benefits. Reflexology, or "zone therapy", is also gaining popularity at spas across the world. This is the practice of stimulating points on the feet and hands that are believed to be beneficial to other parts of the body. The "design contour", which uses anti-ageing body treatments to generate heat and circulation, is also becoming fashionable. Opt for a spa birthday celebration or a spa bachelorette party to show your friends how to have a good time with a difference. Many spa facilities offers weekend vacation packages and bridal packages in some of America's most exclusive locations; so if you think a hotel spa break may be out of your reach, think again. Men and women alike will adore the peace and tranquillity that a day at the spa can afford.