The lone candle filled the room with a glow like a full moon rising. I felt the smoothness of cool linen around my nude body, stripped of worry and the everyday façade of clothing. Soft music engulfed me, lifting me to a different plane of existence. As Rénald's hands worked their way down my back, massaging oil into my skin, I became keenly aware of each vertebrae and muscle.

Guests walking up to the main building at Spa Eastman.

The massage, my first, was just one segment of my visit to Spa Eastman. When my friend, Theresa, asked me if I was interested in an opportunity to try a destination spa listed in the top 100 of the world, just an hour out of Montréal, Québec, I agreed immediately. Not that I was sure what a destination spa was, but I was sure I'd find out soon enough!

Jocelyna Dubuc, President and Chief Executive Officer, of Spa Eastman took a few minutes to talk to us when we arrived. Her enthusiasm and commitment to the experience was evident as she explained the philosophy of a destination spa. "All of the ingredients," she said, "are combined to promote the pursuit and maintenance of a healthy and stimulating lifestyle."

The ingredients of a destination spa vacation include an educational component, healthy diet, restful environment, and a variety of treatments that help guests take charge of their physical and mental well-being. Whether guests go solo, as couples, family groups or with friends, the atmosphere is of pure luxurious relaxation.

After check-in Theresa and I both retired to our rooms. While I'd chosen the most economical package, Theresa was on the opposite end of the scale. My cabin room was cozy and tasteful, while hers in the Spa main building oozed gracious décor. The single bed in my room was soft, while Theresa's king-size bed covered with a down-filled comforter offered a night of pampered dreams.

But there were advantages to my location! The cottage, just a five-minute walk from the main building, was nestled amidst trees and wildflowers, which just begged to be enjoyed. From my tiny balcony I watched one of my neighbors (there were four individual rooms in the cottage) swing back into careful childhood days, as she glided back and forth on the rope swing under the huge maple tree. (CONTINUE...)