TRAVEL THERAPY

Copyright Karen Schaler All Rights Reserved

If you’re looking for a TRAVEL THERAPY that’s spa-licious, head to Maui for the ultimate in indulgence. I’d done my research. I knew what I was looking for but still can’t believe what I found!

It turns out Maui is a spa haven and trust me, do yourself a favor and instead hassling with renting a car in Maui, hire a driver to pick you up at the airport. A great service to try is Carey Limousines because I’ve always found them to be reliable and very knowledgeable about the island offering some great insider tips on where to go to avoid the usual tourist traps. For my first stop I’m head up the coastline to the 1,650 acre world class golf resort of Kapalua.

Kapalua, in Hawaiian, means “arms embracing the sea” and The Ritz-Carlton property is the true gem in this masterpiece setup. To toast my first evening in paradise I sip champagne at the Ritz’s Banyan Tree Restaurant where the cuisine is as inspiring as the ocean view. Chef Jojo Vasquez pampers my palate with a tasting menu featuring his favorite signature dishes, including Ahi Tuna, Muscovy Duck Breast and Roasted Kona Lobster, and just when I think I can’t bare another bite this gourmet genius brings out a Warm Bitter Chocolate Meltaway cake and W&J Graham’s 30 Year Tawny Port. It’s the kind of dining memories are made of and later as I sink into my feather bed I’m already dreaming of what tomorrow will hold.

The next morning I find my suite allows me complimentary access to the Ritz’s exclusive 8^th floor “club” where the Mimosas are already flowing and the fresh breakfast pastries melt in my mouth. I find a table on the patio overlooking the golf course and mentally plan my morning, where my biggest decision is which swimming suit to wear down to the magnificent multi-tiered swimming pool.

 I pick the turquoise suit to match the ocean and after a few hours of lounging poolside I wander down to the beach where the caramel colored sand tickles my toes and the sounds of the surf lulls me into complete relaxation. Now I’m ready for my first spa appointment where I’ve scheduled a unique Hawaiian Healing Treatment. As my parched skin drinks up essential oils made from native island flowers, a Hawaiian chant reverberates thru the room. I’m told the chant is done by the resort’s cultural advisor, Clifford Nae`ole, who is praying for my healing. The entire experience is mesmerizing.

Wondering if this newfound feeling of well being could translate to my golf game I later venture down the road for a private lesson at the famed Kapalua Golf Academy where golf phenom Michelle Wie is known to practice her swing when she’s in Maui.

The ocean view from the driving range makes me wish I had my camera but I barely have time to take it all in before senior teaching pro Gregory Fields hands me a club. I quickly learn Gregory has this uncanny knack of analyzing both your personality and your golf style. After video taping my swing for a few minutes Gregory says, “You walk fast, you talk fast, so telling you not to swing fast is useless, so let’s find a swing that works for you and still makes you more consistent.” Finally, a guy who gets it! My swing improves almost immediately.

That night to celebrate my success I pick the Pineapple Grill, a restaurant offering panoramic golf course views, an impressive wine selection and a sensational seafood menu. Chef Joey’s Lemon Porcini Dusted Opakapaka is perfection and his Kona Lobster Coconut Thai Bisque, pure ecstasy.

The evening wouldn’t be complete without the Ritz’s Bath Butler drawing you your own private bath that includes a choice of juices, champagne or a chilled carafe of Mai Tais. I fall asleep dreaming about my next stop.

Next up… I head to Wailea to check out three of the top resorts in Maui.

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