Girl Getaways in Sedona

In 2007 Sherman’s Travel named Sedona, Arizona, one of the top 10 girl-getaway destinations in the world. “The otherworldly scenery is an inspiring backdrop for bonding,” it said. Sedona’s reputation for creative and spiritual renewal is well-deserved.

The small town, two hours north of Phoenix, offers rejuvenating outdoor vistas and adventures; spiritual power spots; pampering spa services, metaphysical services and readings for self discovery, art enrichment experiences and workshops at the Sedona Arts Center, world-class galleries, shops and restaurants; and structured retreat options for women to unwind and befriend themselves in ways that are not usually possible when juggling all the responsibilities of daily living.

On May 2 and 3, 2008, bestselling author and international speaker Joan Borysenko and inspirational recording artist Karen Drucker will lead a workshop for women at the Sedona Creative Life Center in Sedona, Arizona.  The program called “Celebrating Body, Mind & Spirit: A Time of Renewal and Transformation” is one of several different weekends hosted each year by A Woman’s Way (AWW), an organization that presents retreats and workshops for women by women in Sedona. “Our mission is to provide a sacred space and to sponsor a process that encourages women to find their vision and their voice,” says AWW founder and director Karen Ely. “Women come with friends, mothers, daughters, and sisters or by themselves to find a space of delight, learning, rest and renewal in the company of other women.”

In addition to structured programs, there are many options to create one’s own retreat or adventure experience in Sedona. The small town, where everything is only minutes away, is very easy to navigate. There are many guided tours—from private hiking guides to jeep tours and river kayaking—and dozens of spa options.

Some Sedona hotels, resorts and bed and breakfasts have created lavish rejuvenation packages for female travelers that include massages, facials and occasional special events. Mii Amo Spa at Enchantment Resort, which in 2007 was voted the top destination spa in the world by readers of Travel & Leisure magazine, offers on-site casitas and suites and signature treatments, such as a blue-corn body polish and a Sedona clay wrap.

At El Portal, a 12-room luxury hacienda, women can enjoy deluxe getaways that include “soft” adventures during the day and one-of-a-kind private suites at night.  Outings include

• A wine-tasting tour at local wineries and a gourmet picnic

• Red rock balloon adventure

• A guided early morning hike

• Visits to renowned native American artisans and

• Customized shopping tours

As many women have come to discover, Sedona is a one-of-a-kind destination for celebration and rejuvenation.