Lengthy, but pertinent details..if you want to be surprised, don’t read further. :)


Miraval Resort. Where to begin? Upon arrival in Tucson we were greeted at the airport by a Miraval representative carrying a sign with our names. This was immediately visible once we arrived at the baggage claim area. No looking around for our transportation and no waiting. When we retrieved our bags, they were immediately taken from us and whisked into the awaiting van. Before we even settled into the vehicle, we were offered cold water or soda for the drive to Miraval.

The drive was uneventful and took approximately 45 minutes. For some inexplicable reason, everyone was very quiet. Kind of spooky :) Maybe everyone was gearing up for their "mindful journey."

When we arrived we were shown to the Front Desk; our bags had already been taken to our room. Front Desk Agents were beyond friendly. Our rates were re-confirmed and we were given a copy of our spa appointments (which you are required to pre-book and can most definitely be done on-line), in addition to a map and a current schedule of activities. All of these were presented in a canvas Miraval bag with a water bottle inside (you can take it home with you).

We were given a tour of the property before lunch. The tour conductor was SO friendly and informative that we felt as if we had arrived in Stepford. We actually heard that comment a few times during our stay. For a staff that is not tipped, they are amazing!

MEALS

As we sat down to lunch the specials of the day were placed on our table. In addition to the specials, there is a full buffet available. Wraps, vegetable and meat, are available every day, as are hummus, various breads, salads, fresh fruit and deserts. Specialty salads and entrees vary each day. Each item has the calorie and fat content listed.

While I am on the subject of food, let me give you a rundown of the meal system. Breakfast is the same as lunch; specials and a buffet with certain items that do not change...oatmeal, cereal and fruit. Alternates include different types of pancakes and waffles each day. Breakfast is served from 6:30am – 9:30am. If you have an activity earlier, they have various muffins, breads and coffee available.

Lunch we covered. This is served from approximately 11am - 2pm. As for dinner, you must sign up during the day for a particular time. Times are offered at 1/2 hour intervals beginning at 5:30pm – 9:30pm. There is NO buffet for dinner. Each day is a different menu with 3 or 4 choices of appetizers, entrees and desserts. Again, they are different each day. One day may be French, another Asian and another Southwestern. If none of these items tempt you, there is always a chicken, beef or fish dish available.

Those are the basics. As for the quality and quantity of food. Both are excellent! You have plenty of food and never feel deprived. Additionally, the food is EXCELLENT. The beef is juicy and tender, the appetizers are very creative (paper thin spring rolls with various vegetables, soups and more, each reflecting the evening’s theme. And the desserts: Does Chocolate KahluaTacos make your mouth water? I don’t blame you. But with regard to the chocolate desserts? Not 100% disappointing, but…a bit bland as opposed to rich and sweet.

Oh, and by the way, water and sodas are available 24 hours. Fresh squeezed juices and teas until 6pm



ACTIVITIES

When you first receive your brochure, it can be a bit overwhelming. Where do you start? Once you get there, it’s still overwhelming. There is a sign-in board listing all activities. Some may have a waiting list, but even so, they can generally squeeze you in. Unfortunately, some activities are canceled at the last minute, though there is still plenty to keep you busy. One particular class was canceled due to the instructor being on vacation. Why they couldn’t find another teacher, I don’t know. How hard can it be to find someone to teach, “playing with clay?”

Classes range from cooking to yoga, from water conditioning (the best when it’s 115 degrees)to pilates. Also included are Tai Chi, Rock-Wall climbing (not my best moment), horseback riding and many activities to challenge you.

One side note: The pools are loaded with dead bugs and leaves...not that pleasant when you are doing water aerobics. For sunbathing, they have plenty of floats to use. Keeps the bugs off you!


SPA

The spa was beautiful. The representatives very friendly. Make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before your treatment so you can relax with a cup of tea in the quiet room. This room faces the mountains and has incredibly soft, comfy chairs with chenille blankets. AHHH…

The best part of the trip? You never have to wear makeup or get dressed if you don’t want to. Many guests dine in their spa robes.

What a life! You can learn alot about yourself and others that will hopefully last you a lifetime. (And believe me, I didn't feel that way when I arrived). :)


Recommended: Yes