Posts Tagged ‘Spa’

Apr
15


Seeing as it’s suppose to be Spring but its crazy miserable outside, I decided it would be a good time to reflect about our trip to Costa Rica that we took in January.

Nothing beats looking at photos of the beach and blue skies while its freezing rain outside and -1C  with strong winds, on April 15th, right?

 

While planning our trip to Costa Rica we decided to do it all …Beach, Cloud Forest and Rain Forest! This meant that we needed time and a car. So we took 12 days to visit Nosara (beach town), Cloud Forest (Monteverde) and the Rain Forest (La Fortuna).

We were a little nervous to drive throughout Costa Rica but google maps and an all wheel drive, ensured we took the right roads plus we allowed plenty of time to get to our destination in the daylight!

Here’s some highlights of our trip:

  1. Nosara:  This is a hip, small beach town that is super chill which is well known for its surfing. Theres no huge developments, franchises, etc. Its the perfect place to relax and was the ideal location to start our vacation to get us into “vacation mode”.

We stayed at a friends house while visiting Nosara but had the chance to visit two properties that you should check out in the event that you are planning a future trip to Nosara: Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort  or Tierra Magnifica. 

2. Cloud Forest – (Monteverde): We stayed at Hotel Bel Mar which allowed us to see amazing views. Sadly it rained a lot and was grateful that we were prepared with the right shoes and ponchos. Notice the colour of the sky in the photo below.

3. Rain Forest: (La Fortuna) We stayed at the beautiful Tabacon Resort and Spa for 6 nights and were spoiled rotten with their thermal waters, buffet breakfasts and our massive room. This part of our vacation was definitely a highlight.

We took advantage of the thermal waters twice a day!

The water was tht perfect temperature which meant you didn’t want to do anything but hang out in the thermal waters, however we took advantage of going to the spa on TWO occasions. I had my first four hand massage and it was heaven.

We found a restaurant (Don Rufino) in La Fortuna (thanks to Trip Advisor) that I believe we went to 3 nights in a row. Usually I want to be adventurous and discover other restaurants but the food was that good that we just kept going back.

As for activities in Costa Rica:  There’s no shortage of zip line adventures, coffee tours, night walks, farm tours, suspension bridges, hummingbird parks, boat tours, surfing lessons, yoga, and more!! There’s a reason why this country has become a popular destination.

However, I was on vacation-mode and the only thing I wanted to do was see a sloth (accomplished), see some pretty birds, see a monkey or two and visit a suspension bridge (accomplished). However you could be super busy if you wanted to!!

As for shopping: I bought some chocolate and coffee back to Toronto and naturally I wish I bought more! Why oh why did I only buy one bar?

Costa Rica is a wonderful country to visit as its really unique in many ways. Will remember this vacation for a long long time!!

PS Many thanks to my facebook friends for all the recommendations.

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Feb
04


The company I work for has a policy that if you work overtime then you must take off that time within two weeks. I wanted to take full advantage of that day off but it was November and it wasn’t exactly ideal weather to fly somewhere for a for a long weekend.

I was racking my brains what to do – and then I came up with the idea to drive for an hour and a half so I could be pampered at  Ste. Anne’s Spa. Sometimes, I really do have great ideas!!

As you can see from the schedule, I was going to have a great day.

st annes - scheduleOf course, the day included some time in their outdoor hot tub.st annes - outdoor hot tubPlus I made sure to spend as much time as possible, hanging out in their robes.

st annes - robeI found out that there’s a new chef in the kitchen and I must say that I noticed the improvement, since my last visit a few years ago. My food not only was presented beautifully but it was cooked to perfection.

st annes - lunch

Not complaining that my day ended off with a gorgeous Afternoon Tea.

st annes - teaI would highly recommend Ste. Anne’s Spa but please note that they are a very busy destination so book as early as you can!! You will love their facilities, food, warm and welcoming service and attention to detail. Promise.

Please note that they offer many fantastic “packages”.  There’s a February package, a March Getaway Package and even a Yoga Retreat.

For more information:

Website www.steannes.com

Address: 1009 Massey Road, Grafton, ON, K0K 2G0

Reservations: 1.888.346.6772 or info@steannes.com

Disclosure: My visit was complimentary, however all opinions are my own

 

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Jan
21


For the next few weeks I’m going to write a series of blog posts called: Spa Sundays. These blog posts will be dedicated to a few Spas that I’ve visited over the last few months. I don’t know about you but visiting a Spa is like a mini-holiday for me without the hassling of airports, long flights and huge amounts of  time!

Seeing as I live in Toronto, there are no shortage of fabulous spas that are less than two hours away.

My first Sunday Spa blog post is about a recent visit to Langdon Hall which took place on a beautiful fall day in October.. Usually I visit Langdon Hall in the summer, but I was all to eager to visit them during this gorgeous season.

langdon - building

Even though I missed hanging out at their stunning outdoor pool (as it was closed for the season) it meant that I got to spend more time hanging out in their new spa.

langdon - hot tub

Yes – Langdon Hall has a 35,000 square foot expansion!! This brand new wing located by the lower gardens, is now the home of  a new day spa, a premier event venue and eight luxurious new guest rooms. Of course, I took full advantage of everything – the hot tub, the dry sauna, and the wet sauna too!

langdon - sauna

Lucky me, I got a chance to hang out in their brand new spa for an incredible facial which I badly needed.  The designers at the spa kept everything in mind: there’s plenty of sunlight, spacious rooms and beautiful change rooms.

Naturally I took the time to relax, relax, and do some more relaxing.

langdon - relax

I also took time to enjoy the food at Langdon Hall!  This Radish Salad had fresh ricotta, lemon preserves and hazelnut dressing! It was exactly what I needed. A trip to Langdon Hall must (must) include a nibble from their kitchen.

langdon - lunch

Oh ya – I “needed” to hang out on their porch and sip wine will catching up on a few blog posts too!!

langdon - vicky

Please note that Langdon Hall is about an hour away from Yorkdale Shopping Centre and is an ideal get-away (day trip or overnight!!). Also it’s worthwhile to subscribe to their website for news about promotions and special events.

For more information:

Langdon Hall – www.LangdonHall.ca

1 Langdon Drive, Cambridge, ON N3H 4R8
Reservations & General Inquiries : 1-800-268-1898
reservations@langdonhall.ca

Instagram: @LangdonHall

Twitter: @Langdon_Hall

 

 

 

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Oct
15


I’ve been going to  Las Vegas with my mom for almost 10 years. We typically leave on a Thursday night and return on the red-eye that leaves at midnite on Monday.

We keep going back to Vegas for two reasons: the food and the weather.

The weather did not disappoint. It was certainly above seasonal for this time of year and we were very happy about this!!

vegas - weather

My mom and I take our sun very seriously and sat in the sun everyday from 9 to 5. One of my favorite activities to do in the sun is to read and that’s exactly what I did. I managed to download a whole bunch of books for FREE (thanks Tuebel) and got thru the following books:

-Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn (which I’ve been trying to finish for a year)

-Why Not Me? by Mindy Kaling (perfect pool book).

-The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins (just started reading this book)

-The Book of Aron: A Novel by Jim Shepard (which I’ve been trying to finish since August)

-The Rosie Effect by Graeme Simpson (got thru most of it)

Not bad eh?

As for food:

Dinner #1: Lolas: A Louisiana Kitchen

We selected this restaurant as it was featured on  Diners, Drive Ins & Dives. Plus it had shrimp and grits on the menu which is something you never see in Toronto.

Dinner #2: Arawan Thai Bistro & Dessert

This new Thai restaurant opened up only 4 months ago and it was one of our favorite meals. For some reason, Las Vegas has some unbelievable Thai restaurants. (we’ve been to 3 over the years and they are all exceptional)

vegas - arowon

Dinner #3: Glutton

Another winner!! We ordered four dishes and every one was flavourful and presented beautifully.

vegas - glutton2

Dinner #4: Society Cafe. We selected this restaurant as we were already at the Spa at the Encore and needed a bite to eat before heading to the airport. We scored.

vegas - societe

Please note: This trip did NOT involve shopping. That’s right – we didn’t go to one outlet mall or one store.

Nor did this trip involve gambling’ OK – we spent $16 in 4 days on a slot machine. Does that count?

This trip did NOT involve drinking either. OK – there were a few jello shot involved. Hee Hee.

vegas - jello shot

However we did go to the Spa at the Encore and it was seriously a great way to end our trip before heading to the airport.

It was a spectacular space. All 55,000 square feet of it. I took advantage of the waterfall shower, the shower with 12 sprays, the wet sauna, the dry sauna, the relaxation room, the cold plunge and the jacuzzi. Plus I had a massage.

vegas - spa

There is a reeason why this spa is listed as one of the best spas to visit while in Las Vegas.

Sadly the trip is over, however I’m already looking forward to my next trip to Vegas in 2016!!

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Oct
02


I’ve now been to Her Majesty’s Pleasure for two events and I feel I must share this unique concept with you.

Her Majesty’s Pleasure™ is a beautiful mix of sensory experiences in the heart of King West Village; There’s an enchanting café, juice-bar, retail boutique and lounge bar with wellness and spa services. Go see them and socialize over drinks, manicures, pedicures, blowouts or just great coffee, desserts and tunes.

As always, I like hanging around the bar AND the food!!

HMP - bar

I also hung out and got my make up done and my hair blown out. I must say, I did NOT walk into the event looking like this AT ALL!

HMP - vicky

What’s also cool about this space is that they have been Voted Best Salon Design and Top 10 Global Interior Design by Azure Magazine, with interiors by renowned design firm +tongtong.

HMP - space

If you are looking for a unique space for a birthday party, or a corporate event, this space would be IDEAL.

For more information:

www.hermajestyspleasure.ca

Address: 556 King St W, Toronto, ON
Phone: (416) 546-4991

Twitter: @HMP_Toronto

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HMPbeautybar/timeline/

 

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Aug
16


I’ve just returned from a weekend in Mont -Tremblant. I hadn’t been there in over 2 decades so I was ready for a weekend of great food and some R & R as well. (um, mission accomplished!)

Let’s address the ‘eating’ portion of the weekend first! Highlights of my weekend included two meals that consisted of a pogo and poutine (from Patate Ben -Venu and La Roulotte).  I also had escargot for dinner one night along with pate and a duck confit salad (Restaurant Des Petites Ventres). I swear I will be eating a lot of egg whites and kale salad this week to make up for my unhealthy diet over the weekend!

tremblant - foodThe relaxing portion of my trip included a trip to Scandinave Spa  for a massage and to take advantage of their water therapy. What a treat. Unlike other spas that I’ve been to – this one was the quietest as they really do enforce a “no talking” policy.

tremblant - spaRelaxation to me, also means spending a bit of time touring the area! Take a peek at this stunning scenery.

tremblant - tour

There was one part of the weekend that wasn’t so relaxing, as we woke up at 6 a.m, to watch the athletes commence the swim portion of the Mont -Tremblant IRONMAN. It was incredible to see 2500 bikes parked in the coral, the swim, and watch the first elite athlete get out of the water and run towards his bike. This race includes a: 3.8 km swim, 180 km bike, 42.2 km run and these athletes are in top physical shape to get thru this challenge!

montreal - ironman Sadly there was not enough time to participate in the many activities that Mont -Tremblant has to offer …ie zip lining, going to the top of the mountain, the luge, mountain biking and more.

I guess this means, that we will just have to return to Mont-Tremblant!!

 

 

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Jul
22


My last blog post was about camping so I thought it would only be appropriate to do a blog post about GLAMPING. Here’s the definition of Glamping according to Wikipedia:

Glamping is a portmanteau of glamour and camping and describes a style of camping with amenitiesand, in some cases, resort-style services not usually associated with “traditional” camping. Glamping has become particularly popular with 21st century tourists seeking the luxuries of hotel accommodation alongside the escapism and adventure recreation of camping

My glamping experience this year, was at Langdon Hall as it fits my criteria when I want a QUICK escape. To be exact: It’s about an hour away from Yorkdale Shopping Centre.

langdon - hotel

I have been escaping to Langdon Hall for over a decade but only for a day trip (think Spa treatment and then hang out at the pool). But this trip I actually stayed overnight. What a treat!!

This meant I had time to play tennis, (twice!!) and go for a quick ride on a tandem bicycle. #FUN

langdon - activity

We even took advantage of the complimentary Wine Tasting that was taught by one of the sommeliers on staff (there’s actually a few of them at Langdon Hall). It was a fun blind wine tasting and sure enough my fav wine was a 2010 Charles Baker Riesling from Stratus Vineyards in Niagara on the Lake.

langdon - wine

During July and August, Langdon Hall offers a variety of complimentary activities for their guests: wine tastings, garden and history tours, cooking demonstrations and even a vegetable garden tour.

Naturally, we also relaxed by their exquisite pool.

langdon - pool

What strikes me the most about this majestic property is their lush grounds and their spectacular vegetable garden. I couldn’t stop snapping photos of GREEN!!

langdon - green

The highlight of our trip was the chance to eat at Langdon Hall and to chat with Chef Jason Bangerter.  Notable achievements while at Langdon Hall include:

  • Relais & Chateaux, Rising Chef Trophy 2015
  • Five Diamond Restaurant Award by CAA/AAA 2014
  • Gold Medal Plates, Toronto 2014 – Received the Bronze Medal, fundraising chefs competition for Canadian Olympic and Paralympic athletes.
  • The Good Food Innovation Awards – Received Gold by Food Day Canada for the demonstration of an innovative Canadian menu.
  • Relais & Chateaux, Gourmet Fest at Carmel by the Sea – selected as the only Canadian Chef to take part in this 60th anniversary celebration.

Sadly, we weren’t that hungry and only ordered two items from their dinner menu.

-East Coast oysters with rhubarb and green apricot mignonette, garden hot sauce.

langdon - oysters2

-Potted chicken liver pate with elderberry and thyme jelly, spring vegetables and sourdough crisps.

langdon - liver

I can’t wait to return and order more dishes from this talented Chef.

langdon - chef

I also can’t wait to sleep on their beds again. I actually had to look to see what I was sleeping on and discovered it’s a feather bed. I also found out when I was leaving that you can buy it online.  I think I will be treating myself to an early birthday gift (err..about 8 months early. LOL)

Of course, the service we received EVERYWHERE was spectacular. Everyone we encountered had a smile on their face ..the bellman, the pool staff, our waitress at the bar, the front desk staff and cleaning staff too. It was truly a pleasure to stay at this Relais & Chateaux, designated hotel. Just so you know – there’s only two properties in Canada with this designation.

Other exciting news about this property is their expansion, which include a new spa and more event space. It’s scheduled to open in the Fall and I have no doubt that it’s going to be magnificent. Can’t wait to check it out. (note to self: put this in my calendar…NOW)

langdon - constructionFor more information:

Langdon Hall, 1 Langdon Drive, Cambridge, ON
Telephone: 519-740-2100
reservations@langdonhall.ca

Twitter: @Langdon_Hall

Instagram: @LangdonHall

 

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Jun
21


I recently went to Great Wolf Lodge with my mom and my daughter.  Instead of a “Girls Night Out” it was a “Girls Night Getaway”. ..which included spa treatments, CASUAL CLOTHING and tasty food.

Before we went away, I gave my mom strict instructions not to bring anything fancy as Great Wolf Lodge is all about comfort and convenience. This is the perfect get away where you don’t have to worry about bringing “the right” clothing (some people even go to breakfast in pyjamas).

I also loved the convenience of getting a wrist band.  It acted as my room key.  How convenient is that?    #LOVEIT.

We started off the getaway with a spa treatment. This was certainly a treat!

Take a peek at this little girl who allowed me to take a photo of her getting a spa pedicure!

gwl - girl

Then we SLID into summer and took advantage of the water park, which is a whopping 100,000 square feet. Note: your admission ticket to the water park is included in your hotel fee. #morevalue

gwl - pool

As for food: I can spot a fresh buffet a mile away and this buffet was indeed fresh and super tasty. Our personable (and funny) waiter Paul H. ensured that we also had a great laugh or two.

Great Wolf Lodge goes out of their way to accommodate guests with allergies or specific food requirements. When my daughter mentioned that she preferred a salad without cheese, they were quick to say “not a problem, we can make you one”.

Did I mention that I ordered a local beer to go along with my meal? Not only could I drink it with my meal but I was able to walk around with it too. #funfact

gwl - beer

Great Wolf Lodge raises the bar to provide guests with a safe and exceptional vacation with plenty of value. As a mom (and a former life guard), I thought these t-shirts sent out a great message that Great Wolf Lodge takes safety seriously!

gwl - tshirt

In the event that you are seeking a summer get away, Mom Who Runs would like to offer you a discount at Great Wolf Lodge of 20% off the best available rate. Please use this code when booking: MWRFUN

  • Offer valid for stay dates between June 14, 2015 to July 24, 2015
  • Booking cut-off date to make reservations is June 28, 2015
  • Blackout dates may be added as availability decreases.

I have no doubt that you will have an exceptional vacation!!

For more information:

Website: www.greatwolflodge.com

Address: 3950 Victoria Avenue, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 7M8
Phone: (905) 354-4888

Twitter: @GreatWolfLodge

Instagram: @GreatWolfLodge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/GreatWolfLodge

Disclosure: My trip to Great Wolf Lodge was complimentary however all opinions are my own.

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Jun
01


My road trip adventures continue but this time my  adventure was in a cozy Hyundai Elantra.
To be honest, I wasn’t sure I was going to like driving a sedan but it turns out that I loved it. It handled well, had all the right bells and whistles and still had the power I needed to accelerate. Not to mention…a very smooth ride.

st anne - car

I drove the Elantra (happily) all the way to Ste. Anne’s Spa.…which is just east of Toronto. In a little over an hour I was happily staring at these beautiful grounds.

st anne - grounds

After touring the property, we checked into our STUNNING and SPACIOUS room. This was a real treat for me to actually stay overnight as previously I’d only been for a day visit. Please note, that my last visit was two years ago and there has been numerous renovations and upgrades. ie newly decorated rooms, new gym, and a new gluten free bakery too.

st anne - room

I was treated to 3 beautiful meals (which I enjoyed in my robe) and afternoon tea as well (which I enjoyed in my robe).

One of the perks about staying at  Ste. Anne’s is that IT”S PERFECTABLY ACCEPTABLE TO BE IN YOUR ROBE AT ALL TIMES. Yup – I wore my robe for 24 hours and it was DA best feeling. I’m actually kicking myself that I didn’t buy it. (note to self: next time)

20140528_121835-1
The only disadvantage to wearing a robe for 24 hours is that it prevented me from taking out a bicycle to enjoy the rolling hills that surround this property!!

st anne - bike

Naturally I enjoyed a spa treatment as well. My tummy was happy (due to the delicious food) and now my skin was happy too due to the seaweed body masque that I experienced.

st annes - seaweed

I drove back to Toronto very well rested, well fed and relaxed. My 24 hour stay at Ste. Anne’s Spa was superb – on every level – the service, the food, the spa, grounds and accommodations.

The Elantra continues to impress me as I haven’t had to fill up the gas tank for the whole week. Sweet!!

For more information:

Ste. Anne’s Spa 1609 Massey Rd, Grafton ON

Phone: 1 888 346 6772

Twitter; @steannespa

Hyundai Canada

Twitter: @hyundaicanada

Disclosure: My trip to Ste. Anne’s Spa, as well as the Hyudai Elantra, were both provided to me, however all opinions are my own

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May
05


Mother’s Day is around the corner!! If you haven’t bought a gift yet, here’ a few ideas.

1. FOR THE MOM WHO…….Who Loves To Be Pampered.

A getaway to Ste. Anne’s Spa is the answer! Please take a peek at their amazing website which now offers auctions (which I think is a really cool idea). I’ve never been there for an overnight however a day trip certainly does the trick for me!!

gifts - st annes

2. FOR THE MOM…Who Loves Yoga

Buy her the B Mat. Why? Because  its exceptionally grippy texture, its eco-friendly and its durable. Not to mention it’s NEW, NEW, NEW…it recently launched in February 2014!!

yes..thats momwhoruns trying to be momwhodoesyoga!

yes..thats momwhoruns trying to be momwhodoesyoga!

3. FOR THE MOM…Who Runs!!

The Samsung Gear Fit is the perfect gift.

Oh what a treat for someone who loves technology and running. I’m now the proud owner of this watch and can’t wait to get off the dreadmill and use it. I’ve already signed up for a one on one lesson with Telus to learn every possible feature about this watch.

gift - watch

4. FOR THE MOM…Who Has Everything

Head to the AGO Gift Store. I swear you will find SOMETHING. This store really does carry unique (and beautiful) products.

5. FOR THE MOM….Who Loves to Entertain.

I promise you will find something for her at Loblaws!. Once again,  President’s Choice has a STUNNING SPRING line! ps I’ve already bought the napkins (on the left) for my paper napkin collection. Yes – that’s right – I have a paper napkin. (yes..I’m normal)

gift - dishes

6. FOR THE MOM…Who Loves Tea

Consider buying Tea from Lemon Lily which offers a beautiful range of organic teas!

gifts - lemon

7. FOR THE MOM….Who LOVES Handmade Creations.

Head over to ETSY.  Seriously.

8.FOR THE MOM…Who Loves to Read.

I would suggest buying her a Kobo. I’ve been a proud owner of a Kobo since 2010 and can’t say enough about their customer service.

gifts - kobo

9. FOR THE MOM…Who’s FOODIE

OMG..this is a hard one for me to answer!! In fact I don’t know where to start. A cookbook? a certificate to her favorite restaurant? a cheese box from Taste of Cheese? a cooking class? 18 kg gold chocolate bar from Baroness Chocolates? a food crawl to all her favorite spots? a fresh truffle?
grandbaroness

Wishing everyone a Happy Mother’s Day!!

Disclosure: A variety of these companies provided me with product, however all opinions are my own.

 

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