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Travel Talk
by Francine Brokaw
Ojai Valley Inn and Spa
Nestled on 220 beautiful acres in the Ojai valley 80 miles from Los Angeles, the Ojai Valley Inn and Spa is the perfect place to unwind from all the pressures of life. It’s the ultimate getaway for busy parents who want just a little respite from work, carpools, etc. or a romantic getaway without interruptions.
Ojai is a picturesque valley. In 1937 Frank Capra chose this spot for the mystical and mythical valley of perfection, Shangri-La, in his film Lost Horizon. It has been used for several movie locations throughout the years.
The Ojai Valley Inn and Spa is the largest employer in Ojai and with all these employees you’re going to be well taken care of, pampered, and completely indulged. The resort has recently completed a spectacular renovation and now there are 308 rooms all designed for the comfort of the visitors with LCD flat-screen TVs and king or double beds.
Everything in this place is done to the highest standards. The Spanish architecture, fountains, beautiful landscaping and attentive staff all create a relaxing atmosphere to unwind and rejuvenate from the pressures of life we all face.
Golfers will enjoy the primo golf course designed by top rated golf course architect George C. Thomas. To those of us who know nothing about golf, that doesn’t mean anything, but golf aficionados know his name. There are tennis courts, facilities for horseback riding and two swimming pools. The massive deck surrounding the main swimming pool is the ideal place to soak up the sun while reading or simply enjoying the spectacular scenery. And there is no traffic noise to disturb your quiet thoughts.
The Spa is a wonderful retreat for your mind and body. Spa Ojai features several signature treatments, including the Kuyam (Koo-Yahm). This combines special mud from the Dead Sea with inhalation therapy and meditation for a wonderful whole-body treatment for all your senses. The sensations of the heat, mud, and cool water are almost indescribable, and while you are relaxing in the heated room with mud soaking into your pores detoxifying your system, a guided meditation takes you into a peaceful state of mind. Then, when it’s over you will walk through sprays of cool water on your way to a nice warm shower where you wash off the remainder of the mud. It might sound a little weird, but it’s a very peaceful experience and this is the only place in the United States that offers this treatment.
Spa Ojai also offers several massages, skin care and body treatments for men and women. This is the place to indulge yourself. Try several different treatments or, if you cannot decide which ones to select, there are several combination packages. For the ultimate in indulgence, the Luxury Day Package is a full day of pampering. You’ll leave floating on air.
Four restaurants on the property and room service are more than enough to fulfill all your food cravings. A definite must is Maravilla – an elegant restaurant serving exquisite food with a spectacular view. The staff waits on your every whim and the food rivals any I’ve had at the most famous restaurants. It’s worth a drive up just for dinner! Every bite is a taste delight. The dress code is resort casual, so don’t worry about having to dress up. Just relax and enjoy the delectable food and wine.
Ojai Valley Inn and Spa is my new favorite getaway place. To describe it in one word I would have to say “Peaceful.” The next time you want a quick escape from all your stress, think about this oasis less than 80 miles away from Los Angeles.
© 2006 Francine Brokaw
All pictures ©Roy Brokaw
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