Three words: Luxury boot camp!

On nearly 400 acres of serene Southern California land, lies a dreamy Japanese-inspired Spa called the Golden Door. This unique retreat is dedicated to personal wellness, bringing world-class spa techniques, fitness facilities, and zen-like accommodations to globe-trotters who are seeking to recharge and have a fresh start.

A few years back my mother and I decided give Golden Door a try. Upon checking-in to the beautiful Golden Door Spa, I was brought to my Japanese villa where a trainer, a nutritionist, a psychologist and the spa manager were waiting for me to structure a program that would surely kick my derrière.

Waking up for the non-obligatory 6:00 a.m. morning hike and Tai Chi class at the top of the mountain didn’t sound like my idea of a relaxing week at first, but after doing it on the first day, I just couldn’t stop.

After my morning hike, breakfast was served around the pool by the wonderful staff. They made me feel like a part of their family with their warmth and personalized attention. The next two hours were packed with awesome yoga and boxing classes (there are hundreds of classes to choose from). After exercising more in one day than I had in the previous month, I was worn out, so I retired to my villa. The morning ended perfectly when a masseuse knocked on my door and surprised me with a wonderful morning massage.

After the massage, I enjoyed a healthy lunch followed by the best facial and pedicure I have ever had. After that I read for hours on my porch (don’t forget to bring a good book), until it was time for our cooking class with Chef Curtis Cooke. I later found out that everything that he prepares comes from the organic garden just a few feet from the kitchen. After the unbelievable cooking class, I indulged in a decadent truffle wild mushroom soup, crispy duck breast and cheesecake. Each portion of your meal is personalized the way your trainer and you predetermined the weight loss goals.

I repeated this wholesome day seven times before I left to face the real world. To this day I daydream about visiting this spa again.

Photographs courtesy of the property.