Someone tweeted about the difference between the 2002 Ball Drop and the 2024 Ball Drop. Even in Times Square, crowds have thinned. And I know the enthusiasm I’ve seen is nothing like I remember from years past — or like I’ve seen in movies. Clearly, we’ve all lost a bit of excitement as we grow older. I guess that’s to be expected. You can wear all the bows you want, but you really can’t regain your childish sense of whimsy.
My mother, an optimist, is already reminding me that the year is far from over. But I’m a pessimist, so I’m already looking forward to 2025. As you can guess, I’m not one for resolutions. I know how daunting they can feel after a week of commitment.
Instead of resolutions, I like to make achievable monthly goals that are often quantifiable. It’s my way of being able to form healthy habits without getting overwhelmed. Then, if something isn’t working for me, I can adjust and work towards my goals in a healthier way that suits me.
One of my goals this month is to do three acts of self-care that I wouldn’t normally partake in. I’m hosting a spa night for my friends, I’m getting a manicure, and I’m definitely going to a professional spa on my own.
Going to the spa is a little treat that feels insanely luxurious — even if you do it on the cheap. While you can recreate a spa at home for less, there’s nothing like letting the professionals do the work for you. It’s the ultimate form of self-care: just letting go for a few hours and getting the ultimate dose of rest and relaxation.
I declare this the year of you. What better excursion than a spa day? Pour through Groupons and wait for sale packages to arrive, or make it extravagant and plan a trip to some famous spas.
If you’re looking for a spa to go to in 2024 that checks all the boxes: ambiance, quality service, luxury feel, and relaxing atmosphere, then look no further than our recs!
AIRE Ancient Baths - Barcelona, Spain
Aire
Within Bath, England lies one of the largest mineral hot springs where King Lear’s father allegedly claimed his leprosy was healed. Since then, we’ve spent centuries recreating the healing properties of a good, hot bath.
Luckily, AIRE Ancient Baths is taking the experience worldwide — combining the beauty of a Roman bath with luxe massages, couples options, and even wine and cheese tastings. You’ll leave feeling fully rejuvenated and ready for the rest of the year.
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental - London, England
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park
One of the most highly rated spas across the world, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental guarantees a good time. Experience a traditional English rose massage to release stress and tension with a dreamy scent, or try their signature Oriental Harmony massage- where two therapists work together to soothe the skin and help fight jet lag.
Seriously, I want one of every treatment. The three-and-a-half-hour Tian Quan session is my pick: a personalized bathing treatment followed by a hydrating facial, full body massage, and even a wellness snack!
The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage - Palm Springs, California
Rancho Mirage
Perched 600 feet above Coachella Valley, the Ritz-Carlton hosts the picturesque (literally) Rancho Mirage. The hotel spa includes 16 rooms for treatment and offers amenities like a plunge pool, spaces for yoga and meditation, and even a salon service.
It’s your one-stop shop for a full makeover day, the kind that Anne Hathaway has in The Princess Diaries.
Forte Private Spa - Sardinia, Italy
Forte Village
Located within Forte Village Resort’s Acquaforte Thalasso & Spa, this luxury spa getaway is a bucket list pick. With a gorgeous private garden, specialist treatments, and three thalasso pools, you can reserve this exclusive spa area for your family or with your friends.
It’s your chance to feel like a celebrity and live like one, too. Forte’s Private Spa is the ultimate escape within your vacation, where the attention and care are all on you!
Canyon Ranch Lenox - Lenox, Massachusetts
Canyon Ranch Lenox
One of the highest rated spas in America lands in Lenox, Massachusetts. An entire spa resort that feels almost like a mirage: gorgeous wooded areas, health and wellness therapists, delicious dining, and ultimate spa treatments are all offered at Canyon Ranch.
It’s a vacation that is considered an investment in yourself- where you leave a happier, healthier version of yourself. If you want to feel like you’ve changed for the better post-travel, Canyon Ranch Lenox is the place to go.
