SPA ADORATION REIGNS AT HILTON NEW YORK

After a three-day convention in Atlantic City I was eager to partner for some R&R at the Hilton New York's Spa and Fitness Center, located near Rockefeller Center in the heart of this metropolis, the "city that never sleeps."

Spa manager, Denise Kolaso, had promised us an unforgettable visit, triggering our spirits to an all-time high - a spa afficionado and would-be fan, really!

From the moment you enter the 8,000-square-foot facility the workout area is set to challenge your strength and endurance with strength machines, cardiovascular equipment and treadmills. Before long it's either the celestial view (through the glass-topped ceiling) or midtown Manhattan five floors below that vies for your attention. Then, of course, there is the spa of all spas.

Tania, my massage therapist, begins my spa routine with the Balinese massage. This is a well-deserved indulgence of pure body stimulation, the technique an entirely new experience for me. I am told that this style is Indian, Chinese and European influenced which sounds really exotic to my ears, but what is about to unfold is even more effective on my mind and body.

I'm taken on a musical retreat to the islands for my imaginary journey to Bali after making a selection from tropical oils (island fruits, flowers or spices) - I choose flowers. The massage starts with acupressure, then she switches to a rolling motion, followed by soothing strokes. It takes 50 minutes to release the tension in my muscles and I feel the energy flowing back into my body.

The therapeutic massage is highly recommended for those of us who consider ourselves active, and men might also find it very suitable. My sports minded friend rates the results highly because of the different techniques utilized throughout the treatment. It's a great way to figure out exactly what type of massage meets your needs if your experience is limited. You can't go wrong with a bit of sports therapy, trigger point, lymph drainage and positional release. And my best word of advice is to talk to your therapist and request a lighter or stronger touch, and remember, he/she is always receptive to questions.

The spa menu at the Hilton New York rivals destination spas with its wide array of services and facials are no exception. It takes me too long to decide on one of the 14 types available, but Joanna, my aesthetician, comes to my rescue and so we begin the European facial.

This treatment is designed for all skin types and is formulated to leave skin looking radiant and fresh. The process begins by using a remover gel and cleansing lotion (great for the pores), then it's quite stimulating when Joanna applies the scrubbing facial cream and a solution activator (to nourish and tone the skin).

Next comes my favorite part of the facial - the hydrating masque. It's fun to lie in comfort as Joanna continues her routine using the toner lotion, then a facial cream base and finally a vitamin principle activator. Then voila, it's the new me - and this time I'm very impressed - my face feels soft and smooth, and I am absolutely glowing.

And who says guys can't enjoy the benefits of a facial too? The equivalent for gentlemen is the "Just for Him" Facial. It can be the best 50 minutes any man can devote to his face, the skin that often faces a razor (for most men). It's an opportunity to moisturize, tone and cleanse the skin. The bonus is a head, neck and shoulder massage. So who's next?

Seventeen body treatments range from the popular Thermal Body Wrap, Body Paraffin and Aromatic Herbal Body Wrap to the exotic Bali Spice Scrub and Volcanic Earth Ritual. Or why not try the Sarvar Crystal Glow, a therapeutic body treatment with crystals from the distillation of thermal waters of Savar, Hungary.

There are so many reasons to return to the Hilton New York Spa, over 50 if you number the treatments. Spa reservations will guarantee a renewed spirit, body and mind. All you need to do is show up, slip on your robe and slippers and head for the dry sauna or steam room, or sip a juice or tea while you wait for your treatments.