The Eau Spa at the Ritz-Carlton Palm Beach

Last night, my friend Kerry Morrissey -- PR guru from Ocean Properties (http://www.oplhotels.com/directory.htm) -- and I attended the grand opening of The Eau Spa at the Ritz-Carlton Palm Beach (it’s really in nearby Manalapan). You wouldn’t know we were in the midst of a down economy touring around this place. The 41,000-square-foot spa was stocked with beautiful staff members every few yards, pointing and showing us each feature.

What was cool was the fact that they were showcasing their different treatments so you would walk into an open door treatment room – there are 19, all with their own garden villas -- and there would be someone getting a massage or facial. The snazziest was the pure platinum and diamond facial that is supposed to act as an anti-aging treatment, topped with a diamond and quartz infused elixir.

Prices vary but right now, with the economy the way it is, you can get a room for the night for $599. It sounds steep until you factor in what it includes: a $250 hotel gift certificate (for spa, dining, etc.), free breakfast and parking. Now that’s a good deal, especially when you consider that last year, that $599-room came with no extras. However, if that’s out of your price range, you can just spend the day at The Eau Spa for $75, which includes access to the bath house as well as other amenities. http://www.ritzcarlton.com