It’s been a while since I’ve updated this blog. It doesn’t mean I haven’t traveled. I spent two weeks in France, a few weeks in Sedona, AZ and Palm Springs, CA, and also went to Oahu, Hawaii and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico the last 9 months. All were wonderful trips but I just lack the time and energy to recap them or write them while I’m there as I did with Norway!
With that being said, I am recapping my long holiday Easter weekend at this amazing wellness resort in Carefree, Arizona. Yes, that is the name of the town!
So a little bit about me—born and raised New Yorker who is not deep in the “woo woo” but curious enough to explore it. Anyway this place is amazing for dipping your toes in that space (think Feng Shui, meditation, energy healing, etc.) but it’s not ALL about that and certainly has a lot of other things to offer too, like spa treatments, hiking, cardio fitness, yoga, etc. I was just really looking for a relaxing long weekend to unwind from work and booked this resort a month ago as it had great reviews and sounded interesting.
CIVANA Wellness Resort and Spa exceeded my picky expectations! It is a 4 star resort but their website doesn’t do it justice. It’s very zen, modern and clean. What impressed me the most is the amount of classes they offer and how friendly the staff is. As part of staying here, you can sign up for two classes before you stay and then more when you actually arrive.
The rooms are spacious and carry soaps and lotions from the Grown Alchemist line (which I loved but probably won’t buy myself and they’re pricey!). I never usually spend this much on hotel stays but I really wanted to just go somewhere and not have to do much in planning but have a lot of options to do and relax.
The pool area is very nice and the spa was great! If you book a service at the spa that also gives you access all day to their aqua therapy circuit, which is basically steam room, sauna, and hot and cold pools and jacuzzi, all of which are indoors (so good for hiding from the hot sun or rain). There is also a lap pool which I had all to myself one morning for a swim (pools are heated!).
I took at least one class a day and up to three. Some of the classes are long (60 min to two hours depending on what it is) so I tried not to do too many classes since I also wanted to relax and read! Food is not included but it’s similar to what you expect paying in a big city. The food is organic and vegetarian friendly but also some meat options too. I rented a car to get here (car rental was $250 and free parking vs. hotel shuttle roundtrip for $300). You could take an Uber here but it would be hard to find an Uber back since Carefree is a small town out in the desert.
I did go out to breakfast and dinner a couple of times nearby and though a bit cheaper, the food was hit or miss. The resort food was generally good (loved the farm fed burger!) but nothing to really rave about too much. A lot of smoothie and salad options too.
The grounds are well kept and serene. You can also take their complimentary bikes and ride around. They also give a nice reusable water bottle and have alkaline water stations everywhere to fill.
I loved how all the staff was on point with service and friendly and most of the classes were fun and interesting, despite your spiritual healing beliefs! I really enjoyed one of the cardio strength classes and it encouraged me to do more classes like that when I get back to LA where I live now. Same with Breathwork meditation.
I would say spend at least 3-4 days here. I was here for 5 (with the first and last days as half days) and I feel so recharged and relaxed! Perfect for solo travelers or couples/friends. No kids under 14 but didn’t see many families here. A few with teens but not a lot. So definitely peaceful and quiet!
I’d definitely return at some point. Apparently they’re busiest in the springtime and then it drops off in the scorching summer before fall tourists arrive. I never felt this place was crowded or overwhelming. Some classes book out in advance as well as the spa services so definitely plan a little ahead!!!
A lot of stars are visible at night, including the Big Dipper constellation!
I book and pay for all my own trips so this is no way sponsored at all. I just really love to travel and share my experiences with those who have similar travel interests as me!
Until next time when I’m in the mood to write…
