places that pamper: exhale spa in santa monica, ca

here at diva in a carry on, we know what it’s like to be constantly on the go. whether we're on vacation or trying to recoup after a horrific work week, we all need to pamper ourselves…and on a regular basis, lest we go insane! with so many spas to choose from nowadays, you want to make sure you pick a good one. a spa that has great services is one thing, but one that takes you away from it all while giving you that service…making you feel like the diva you are, that’s fabulous!

a view of the pacific ocean from the fairmont miramar hotel
santa monica, california

i recently traveled to santa monica, california! the pier, the shopping, and of course the ocean are all this native californian needs to feel at home. this trip, i got to unwind, relax and get beautiful at exhale mind body spa in the gorgeous fairmont miramar hotel and bungalows.

the front gate at the fairmont miramar hotel, santa monica california

from the moment you enter the front gates of the fairmont, you feel special. The grandness of the estate-like hotel is a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle just outside on the sidewalks around downtown and the third street promenade.

the waiting room at exhale

exhale is nestled within the bungalow style rooms of the hotel, surrounding the pool, croquet lawn and koi pond. it’s all about leisure here, and it’s wonderful! the front desk makes you feel like a celebrity, offering a variety of specialty teas and waters, and showing you back to the lounge area where you’ll change into a robe and slippers in preparation for your star-quality spa treatments. the spa lounge is something to behold: sauna, steam room, lockers, showers, and lounge chairs so you can relax any way you would like before and after your treatment.

the lounge at exhale

i experienced the TRUE facial, exhale’s signature facial treatment ($125 USD / 30 min, $150 USD / 60 min). this facial is great for every skin type and leaves your face glowing and not even slightly red or irritated. the entire facial is a completely relaxing experience, and gets your face in prime condition. the mushroom enzyme mask is the star of the show and leaves your skin remarkably refreshed. my aesthetician, jenelle, was attentive in listening to all my concerns about my skin and offered up some great suggestions.

the menu of services is all encompassing, ranging from manicures and pedicures to top-notch eyebrow sculpting to private mind body sessions where you can enjoy a yoga or core energy flow class. there is truly something for everyone.

the exhale experience was a calming one, both inside and out. i never felt rushed or hurried and, in fact, i was invited to sit by the pool and relax for a while after the treatment! the service was stellar and incredibly accommodating. if you get the chance to travel to santa monica, take in a breath of fresh ocean air, and then, exhale!

[images via flickr, santamonica.com, fairmont.com]