Spa Gaucin recently picked up a Mobil five star rating,making it one of eight spas nationwide to hold that ranking. What did the spa do to earn the nod? Director Valory Reed said she has focused more on connecting with each customer to enhance the overall experience instead of tweaking the spa’s menu. Indeed, the overall experience is what sells Spa Gaucin.
It has a diverse offering of massages, scrubs, wraps and Kate Somerville facials at prices befitting an ultra luxury resort.
As a whole, the spa services themselves are lovely, but pretty standard. The decor at the spa isn’t anything extraordinary,calming beige colors, clean changing rooms and showers. Even the massage with chardonnay grapeseed oil,which added a rich, soothing touch,wasn’t a Zen-inducing experience.
It is in the extras that this spa shines. The Jacuzzi has its own waterfall, the sauna has aromatherapy and the waiting rooms come complete with healthy snacks. Many of the massage rooms have a hot tub and roaring fireplace. Even the changing room has all the extra touches, from spare contact lens cases to a half dozen hair styling products.
And then there is the tranquility room staffed with helpful, but unobtrusive, attendants who bring complimentary wine or champagne and antioxidant-rich grapes. You can even order from the expanding, delicious spa menu and have food brought up. It wasn’t until after the massage that I felt truly relaxed curled up on a lounge with the comfiest blanket on the planet in front a fireplace with a view of the ocean. I give that five stars on its own.
,Julie Leupold
Caipirinha at Las Brisas, Laguna Beach
I’m normally a big fan of caipirnhas,basically mojitos without the mint,for their “drinkability.” The drink of Brazilian liquor, lime and sugar is perfect for a hot day or daytime drinking. And since I was enjoying both on the outdoor patio of Las Brisas, I passed on the restaurant’s signature margarita for the caipirnha. The cocktail comes in three flavors for about $10. But I, and those with me who tasted the drink, was split on whether it was “too tart,” “oh, oh too strong” or just plain “ick.” The drink lacked the signature smoothness of a caipirnhas. I switched it out for a traditional margarita,Las Brisas’ specialty,where sweet and sour mix and strong liquor is appreciated in a drink. Washing that down with some of Las Brisas’ delish guacamole and a view of the sun setting over the ocean was as enjoyable as the best caipirinha.
,Julie Leupold
