IN SEARCH OF A MIRACLEThe way I look at it, there are two kinds of people in the world. Those that look for ways to aggravate me, and those who design ways to make that aggravation disappear. The second kind are responsible for the Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa.
The resort stands on a private peninsula overlooking Sanibel and Captiva Island on the southwest coast of Florida in Fort Myers. You are greeted by lush tropical landscaping and Sanibel's most striking architectural feature--a recreation of the Victorian octagonal pavilion that graced the historic Tarpon House which stood on this site 80 years before. The pavilion reigns over 80 acres--a self-contained village dedicated to making you feel happy, healthy, and renewed.
I have never seen such an extensive range of services and equipment. The 40,000-square-foot fitness center is state-of-the-art and handsomely designed. The knowledgeable, friendly staff provides an imposing array of custom-designed services. And you can take home all of the programs composed especially for you.
Sanibel helped me look good and feel good. The wide choice of body care services not only includes grooming, but conditioning as well. You can opt for hair care, a manicure or pedicure, a make-up makeover, a body waxing, or partake in one of many kinds o f facials.
There are different body wraps designed for different purposes--herbal, seaweed, mud, cellulite treatments, body polish, and muscle relief--and many massage treatments including full-body and localized therapies, reflexology, and sports massage.
Spa facilities likewise includes the expected: treadmills, stair machines, cycles, rowers, and a variety of cardiovascular and weight-training equipment. Among Sanibel's apparatus seldom seen anywhere is the outrageous Betar bed (of which there are only 18 in the world, and two belong to Michael Jackson). The $40,000 bed bathes one's body in enhanced sound waves, music, and aromas that are computer-controlled based on feedback from the body. This new technology induces a state of deep relaxation, relievi ng stress and possibly stress-related diseases.
Be advised that Sanibel is as pampering to those who want to "veg out" as lift weights. The accommodations are excellent--all of the 240 hotel rooms and suites and 80 two-bedroom condos are luxuriously appointed and have balconies that look out over the water.
You can also view the beautiful Florida waters from on board a fishing boat (equipment included), or via the many cruises offered, such as the dramatic sunset champagne cruise on San Carlos Bay. There's also beachcombing, sailing, and just plain sun-wors hipping. And when the sun goes down, the nightlife begins with entertainment at the Courtside Sports Bars and Grill, soft piano music at Chez le Bear, and live music at the Islevista Lounge at the water's edge. There is also considerable after-dark activi ty in nearby Fort Myers and the towns of the Lee Island Coast.
Parents know that relaxation can mean simply not worrying about the kids, and they are not forgotten. The Kids Klub is a professionally designed and staffed program of activities (ages 5 to 12), and there's babysitting for younger children.
A triumph of contemporary cuisine has been the taming of the twin demons of fat and calories while providing exciting--even adventurous--eating that is both tasty and healthful. It has even been given a name--spa cuisine--and Sanibel is lucky to have a s olidly schooled chef with a four-star background, a young Frenchman who has already earned a reputation for his jaunty, imaginative "Cuisine du Soleil." Eric Truglas rules over a substantial culinary empire at Sanibel--four restaurants and three lounges t hat provide a variety of dining ranging from poolside finger food to Chez le Bear, one of the highest-rated restaurants in the region.
Chef Truglas has raised the art of cooking to new heights, melding the art of serious cooking gained at the stoves of the finest restaurants in his native country with the science of nutritional meal design acquired in the US. You can recreate some of Sa nibel's magic in your own kitchen with the chef's popular cookbook, "Cuisine du Soleil; Southwest Florida Cooking With a French Flair.
Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa offers a wide variety of pricing and vacation packages. Information is available through travel agents or (800) 767-7777.