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Community Spotlight

Stanbury Creek at Holden Beach

Beautiful and relaxing Coastal Living is now within reach! Stanbury Creek at Holden Beach combines outstanding elements of nature, from three natural ponds to a unique rolling terrain, with brilliant Charleston- and cottage-style architecture. Come explore this private community and discover unique coastal living by the calm flowing waters of Stanbury Creek!

Is there a spa in your life?

For some of us, spas are the path to physical, mental and spiritual well-being. In fact, spas are the fourth-largest leisure industry in the U.S., generating more revenue than ski resorts, theme parks and even box office receipts. Regrettably, for most folks, the luxury of body pampering is limited to an occasional visit to an upscale hair salon or an expensive vacation at a spa resort.

Help is on the way for those fortunate enough to live in a planned community with the foresight to know how important a spa can be. Having a spa at your beck and call just down the road from your home provides welcome respite for body, mind and soul.

The Trend

Some of the more conventional reasons for choosing to live in a planned community are the broad array of amenities provided, like golf, hiking, fishing, boating and other sports. Today, many planned communities have added spas to their list of essential amenities--from simple exercise gyms to elaborate centers staffed by experts in holistic body treatments.

Why Spas?

The reasons that people choose to patronize spas are as diverse as the nature of the spas themselves. Many spa enthusiasts revel in the life-enriching, soul-soothing, enduring effects of the spa lifestyle. Some patrons hope to improve fitness and energy levels, and energize their interpersonal skills. Others want to meet specific goals such as dealing with change, managing stress, losing weight, giving up smoking or healing from a loss. Still others are in pursuit of a holistic sense of well-being.

Whatever your motivation, there’s more to the spa experience than just lying on a table while a mudpack does its work. Depending on the spa, activities can include fitness training at a fully equipped gym or pool, yoga, tai chi and meditation for stress management, hiking to build muscle and stamina, eating delicious low-fat meals, and, of course, massages, skin-conditioning body wraps and anti-aging facials. Think of a full-service spa as a sanctuary equipped with experienced therapists who employ a vast range of rejuvenating treatments.

Are You A Spa Virgin? Not to worry...

If you have never been to a spa, the notion of surrendering your mind, body and soul to a staff of strangers may render you a little apprehensive. Don’t worry. Spa employees are used to bringing new people into the world of relaxation. Each planned community’s spa will have specific rules of conduct, and most will offer both male and female therapists. If you prefer one or the other, don't hesitate to say so.

Treatments are usually given in private rooms. Though the idea of going au naturel might initially seem intimidating, don't let that stop you. If modesty is an issue, call the spa in advance to discuss its policies and suggestions. Most treatments can be done while you're fully clothed, but others, such as hydrotherapy, are often done in the nude.

Does the idea of a neighborhood spa pique your interest? Check out the 26 communities listed for a glimpse into the world of personal comfort and pampering. Without leaving your neighborhood, luxury living at its finest can be yours.

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Community Spotlight

The Settings of Black Mountain

Cottages to Grand Estate Homesites overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains located just 15 minutes east of Asheville. Gated Entrance with Stone Guardhouse.