I enjoyed a fragrant citrus massage at Alvadora Spa at Royal Palms Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona. Royal Palms is one of those magical places filled with romance and a sense of being a world away from reality. The spa and my treatment continued that other-world atmosphere.

My citrus massage took place in the Acqua Dolce Suite. This incredible rock-lined room features heated stone tables, an 8-foot waterfall shower, a private water garden with whirlpool, and a fireplace. I was transported to a villa in Italy and wrapped in the aromas of fresh citrus.

Combining the sense of place and those incredible citrus smells with an expert therapist is what made this one of my top treatments. My therapist was more in tune with my body than almost any other therapist ever. She knew exactly where to apply pressure when to use lighter touches, how to move her hands to pick up on the precise rhythms of my body.

Pool at Royal Palms. Photo courtesy Royal Palms Resort and Spa

After my treatment, I wandered across the patio and enjoyed a light lunch by the pool. The Arizona sky was a brilliant blue and the Camelback Mountain rose sharply, standing guard over the lush grounds of Royal Palms Resort. I was relaxed and had an unusual sense of peace. Even now, when I catch just the right hint of citrus in the air, I step back for a moment to my morning at Alvadora Spa.

My room at Royal Palms Resort and Spa, an Alvadora Spa Suite, was one of my top hotel rooms. I also had a lovely stay there recently and enjoy the continued success of this resort. Each stay just gets better.

Alvadora Spa
Royal Palms Resort and Spa
5200 E. Camelback Road
Phoenix, AZ 85018
602-840-3610 Hotel
602-977-6400 Spa
http://www.alvadora.com
http://www.royalpalmshotel.com