Great Day Spas 2008

Feeling stressed? These day spas can have you looking and feeling great. Here’s a guide to terrific quick fixes, pampering facials, massage deals, painless waxing, and more. Plus, spas that come to you and the most expensive treatments in Washington.

Find a Spa

Need to find a spa in your neck of the woods? Try our easy-to-use database of spas (with reviews!) in DC, Maryland and Virginia. more

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A $480 Massage?

The Mandarin Oriental offers a three-hour Thai massage that may be Washington’s most expensive rubdown. What do you get, and is it worth it? We tried the massage as well as two pricey treatments at other spas—a $70 pedicure and a $350 facial. more

Rubbed the Wrong Way

She thought a massage would be soothing. Instead she ended up in pain. Here’s one woman’s account of what can go wrong in a massage—and what to know before you get one. more

Taking It Off

A guide to getting rid of unwanted hair—including threading, sugaring, and the latest in bikini waxing. Plus, spas that do it well. more

More Spas We Love

Good places to treat yourself to a facial, massage, manicure, and more. more

Are Facials Worth It?

Not always, say doctors. Here is what to look for in a facial, plus a guide to different chemical peels that can help skin. more

Let the Spa Come to You

What could be easier than having a massage therapist or facialist make a house call? And why not invite friends and make it a party? These firms provide therapists and handle all the details. more

Quick Fixes

No time to pamper yourself? Day spas know you’re busy—which is why most now offer express facials, massages, and other treatments that can leave you feeling good in no time. more

Top Plastic Surgeons

Who are the best dermatologists for Botox or a chemical peel? Whom can you trust with a laser? If you want a facelift or tummy tuck, who are the area’s top plastic surgeons? more

Can DC’s New Digital News Operations Replace the Once-Great Newspaper Bureaus?

Gone are the robust bureaus for the Los Angeles Times, Newhouse News, and other once-healthy news organizations. Digital media bureaus now are taking their places with as many reporters and plenty of swagger. more

Where & When: What to Do This Weekend

Sip some Beaujolais Nouveau, check out the Terra Cotta warriors, see a vintage murder thriller, and more this weekend. more