The Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa
When many Americans want a quick getaway for an over the top good time that includes some downtime and maybe even a little relaxation, Las Vegas often comes to mind. So how did it come to be that as my daughters and I were planning our annual spa weekend that might also include a little mischief, we changed gears and chose Atlantic City? The answer is simple – simplicity.
What does Atlantic City have that Las Vegas doesn’t? The answer, of course, is a huge ocean and beach with soft white sand and a “step back in time” boardwalk with shops, eateries, and amusements. Often underestimated, Atlantic City is an East Coast mainstay with a simple charm about it that Vegas will never possess. Maybe that charm comes from the seemingly endless shoreline that begs you to be pushed in a rickshaw along the boards while you watch the world go by.
In Vegas you cannot sit on the deck of the Starbucks inside the Pier Shops at Caesar’s and sip your coffee while absorbing the largess of the ocean, relishing the sensation that you are floating on a luxury cruise ship. While Vegas has its water shows, A.C.’s doesn’t try to trump theirs (how could you?) but gives viewers that make it to the end of the pier a more intimate and artistic representation where fountains dance to lights and music every hour on the hour. Daylight shows take you through the history of dance while at night jazz comes to life in the water, making for an enjoyable after dinner course when your leisurely meal at one of the many upscale restaurants such as Buddakan is through.
Alright, I admit, the Las Vegas weather is far more forgiving but when the coastal New Jersey winds kick up off the Atlantic and the casinos have lost their luster it’s a good idea to take some time out to discover one of the many inside pleasures, like The Spa Toccare at the Borgata. The Borgata’s spa touts that their pool and gardens are just like Eden only with a wet bar and even though they are actually situated in the town of Brigantine across a small bridge from A.C. proper, I would tend to agree. Vegas spas take note: this is a very personalized experience.
Their mantra says it all: “Get your recommended daily allowance of Ahhh”. Well, yes, I wanted mine and maybe even more. Promising an experience of uncompromising luxury, the spa makes it clear that it’s all about you. You’re welcomed into the lobby and led on a step by step tour – men have their own area, as do couples, and there’s an extensive list of packages that include an overnight stay should you succumb to a complete state of bliss . Before choosing your service, you’re given a locker which contains your robe and slippers, and then the staff advises you to relax in the zen like surroundings until your treatment time so you can take full use of the sauna, steam room, whirlpool and lounge area. Since I had over 30 minutes I decided to dip into the hot tub. Maybe I should have taken advantage of the beautiful pool and gardens but as I slowly submerged my body in the warm bubbles, I instantly felt all my troubles melt away. Immediately someone was at my side asking if I needed a bottle of water or if I would like to partake of the delicious fruits, juices and amenities that are made constantly available.
I drifted off into oblivion for a moment and then I heard the therapist call my name. I was torn by the treatment choices but knew that I had a long night ahead of me so I opted for the “Diamonds in the Rough Facial,” an exceptional treatment masque using micronized, crystalline gemstones that creates a healing, tightening and energizing result. Spa Toccare’s treatments are guaranteed to exhilarate and my time in the treatment room was like heaven on earth. I really felt like I was the only person that mattered. When I awoke from my facial and saw that I looked five years younger, I could only dream about my next visit.
On our way home after such an indulgent day, my daughters and I decided that our tradition would have to become more than an annual event and we would make The Borgata our spa home. The place is an oasis, not in the desert heat of Las Vegas, but on an island off the mainland of New Jersey and a world away. And there’s something to be said for simply relaxing and not stressing about how much you’ve lost and where you’ll make it up!
The Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa
One Borgata Way
Atlantic City, New Jersey
609-317-1000