A few months ago, my girlfriend suggested that we visit the famed Canyon Ranch in Tucson AZ or Lenox Massachusetts. As we started to review our options we discovered that a new Canyon Ranch had recently opened in Miami Beach (much closer to Atlanta AND on the beach!!). I happily booked a weekend of discovery at Canyon Ranch Hotel & Spa in Miami Beach. This was health and wellness weekend, and I was all set to indulge in everything this boutique hotel has to offer.
The flight from Atlanta was easy – just over 1 hour and direct. We arrived in Miami and took a 20 minutue cab ride to the resort. My haven for the weekend was a one-bedroom suite (rates start at $350). The decor was modern, the layout was ideal and it was tempting to sleep the whole weekend off in my plush bed (with an amazing ocean view, take note) or grab a chair by the beach.
But then a trip to Canyon Ranch would not be complete without fitness classes and booking massages and treatments at their well-known spa. My girlfriend and I sat down to study (and I mean study) the options and classes. A must-try is the Aquavana thermal suite, with its healing waters, thermal cabins, and soaking tubs that are exclusive to Canyon Ranch. I took a few classes such as yoga, pilates, circuit training and tried rock climbing for the first time. I also booked a few massages, a facial, but really enjoyed and used Aquavana as much as possible. You literally feel the stress melt away. 
I had planned the weekend to be my “detox” weekend too and this is exactly why I chose Canyon Ranch. The hotel has health and wellness experts who can help you make an honest assessment of your general wellbeing and provide you with a personalized wellness plan. It was a good start to my detox plan, and I highly recommend any of Canyon Ranch’s Health & Healing services.
Of course, I couldn’t pass up on the gastronomic experience. I loved the refreshing fruit shakes at the Juice Bar (perfect after an afternoon massage). For the definitive dining experience at Canyon Ranch, you must dine al fresco at the outdoor terrace of the Canyon Ranch Grill – the food and wine are fresh, and organic.
Evenings were spent lounging at the chic Carillon Café, the terrace area, or in my homey yet luxurious suite, resting up for another exciting day of health and wellness.
This image is of me (in black) and my friend dining on the outdoor patio with the beach about 10 ft behind us.
