Updates From Spa Lamar in Scottsdale
Canadians Spend A Day, Not a Fortune at Scottsdale Spa
If dreary Canadian winters have you dreaming of sunny Scottsdale spas, you are not alone. Each year, over half a million Canadian visitors descend on the Scottsdale area in search of wonderful weather and great spa deals, according to the Arizona Office of Tourism. In a city that has a reputation for spendy spas, there is one Canadian-friendly place they flock to. This affordable oasis was called the “Valley’s Best Spa Deal” by Phoenix Magazine. At half the price of similar resort-spas, it is no surprise that Spa Lamar is a favourite of savvy Canadian snowbirds too. “So far this year, we are seeing about four times as many Canadian guests as American ones,” says Heidi Lamar, owner of the 14,000 square foot resort-style spa.”Everyone jokes about Canadians being nice but it really is true,” says the spa’s cheerful owner. “Canadian visitors are the best because they appreciate value and are so kind to our staff. They are always a little surprised when we are willing to take Canadian currency,” adds Lamar, “but we really don’t say ‘no’ much around here. If your insurance plan covers massage, we will even provide the paperwork you need to get reimbursed, once you return home”. At Spa Lamar, weary Canadians can enjoy a half hour facial or massage or an hour long pedicure for just $50, including all day use of the steam, sauna, pool & whirlpool. The spa is conveniently located between the Double Tree and the Scottsdale Clarion, near the trendy Old Town district.
All Spas Are Not Created Equal
There are other affordable spas in Scottsdale and visitors will find plenty to choose from with a simple Google search. Independent spas have lower overhead so they offer some of the best deals. The key is to tour the spa's facilities before your spa day to make sure you are dealing with a real spa, not a salon that also does massages. Use of a spa's steam room, sauna, swimming pool, whirlpool, lockers, robes, sandals, towels and refreshments should be included in the price of the service for the best value. Check out Yelp.com to find reviews from other spa visitors so you can choose the one that is right for you.
Don't Lose sight of the Ones you Love
If your Scottsdale escape is a romantic rendezvous, ask if the spa's facilities are co-ed, so you can steam, sauna, soak & swim together. Many spas divide guests into "His" and "Hers" areas at check in, so you might not see much of one another during your romantic spa day. A couple’s massage and facial are a great way to reconnect while you recover from last night’s dinner and dancing and plan tonight’s movie and drinks. Romantic Canadian couples can enjoy a massage for two in a couple’s suite for $190 at Spa Lamar which was named “one of the most romantic places to take a date” by Phoenix City Search.
Find Your Om Away From Om
If too much sudden sunshine is making you a little cranky, consider taking a time out from the pool scene to enjoy a relaxing yoga class. Spa Lamar offers a free yoga class with any spa service and even includes free mat rental so you just have to show up in your favourite lulu lemon togs to get your mind-body groove back. Yoga is done in bare feet, so if your winter boots have left you with funky feet you might consider a quick Pedicure before class. If you are a yoga newbie try a Basic Flow or Restorative class for the kind of relaxation you haven’t experienced since kindergarten nap time.
Don't Forget Lunch
If you plan to spend all day at the spa, make sure to tell them you want to add lunch to your spa day. A complete meal, including a salad or sandwich, dessert & drink is just $15 at Spa Lamar and it is worth every penny. Relaxing is hard work; you will get hungry. Scheduling an hour to leisurely lounge and lunch beside the pool after your service turns a simple massage into a real retreat.
With so many experiences to choose from, you are sure to find plenty of great ways to make the most of your sunny Scottsdale vacation. Just remember to drink plenty of water and don’t forget your sunscreen!
5115 N Scottsdale Rd Scottsdale, AZ 85250 (480)945-7066 thelamar.com
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Ms Deutsch has contributed hundreds of articles for a wide range of magazines in the US and Canada. She is always in search of the next great story, massage and meal. She can be reached at deutsch@see-pr.com
