By Rachelle Lucas
I ventured out and explored a new neighborhood yesterday. Located about 45 minutes south of Orlando, and only a short six-minute drive to Disney, the planned resort community of Reunion is surprisingly huge! With signature golf courses by Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer, it's definitely a golfer's paradise. Unfortunately, I don't play golf. (Though, I'd love for Golf Insider Tim to show me a few swings sometime.) Instead, I was lured into this lusciously green community by their spa.
Driving through their winding roads and perfectly manicured and colorful landscaping, I got a glimpse of the accommadations available at Reunion. This isn't your typical resort. Here you'll find spacious villas, homes and even fully furnished eight-bedroom estates available for your vacation stay. The closest thing you'll find to a hotel on property is the 11-story Reunion Grand with luxury one- and two-bedroom suites that include gourmet kitchens, living and dining areas and a private outdoor balcony. (No wonder they call it the 'Grand!')
The Reunion spa is housed in a two-story, buttercup-hued home adjacent to the Grand. It is easily walking distance, though the valet staff is more than happy to escort you there in one of The Grand's comfortable town cars. The large southern-style front porch welcomes you into a relaxing oasis of calm where you'll find a friendly staff and variety of pampering spa choices.
Upon arriving and reviewing the service menu, two particular treatments caught my eye. First, the "Green Coffee Body Treatment." Of course, I perked up at the mention of coffee. This body wrap is an anti-toxin/anti-cellulite treatment that claims to slim, tone and detoxify. It's part of a three-treatment process, and since I was only there for the day, I moved along to the next eye-catching offer, their "Caviar Facial." This indulgence includes exfoliating and massaging your face with the luxurious ingredients of caviar and crushed pearls. Yes, crushed pearls and caviar! Talk about walking out with a lavish glow.
Since my skin has been visually protesting the winter weather, I ultimately decided on their calming sensitive skin facial. The whole experience was extremely relaxing (I think I fell asleep once), and I left feeling fresh and rejuvenated.
If you're interested in visiting Reunion, take a look at my tips below.
If You Go
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Getting there: Take exit 58 off I-4 toward Poinciana and head East on SR 532. The entrance gate to Reunion will be on your left.
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For a unique dining experience, call ahead and make reservations at their elegant rooftop restaurant, Eleven, with spectacular views of theme park Fireworks.
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Planning a wedding for this summer? Take a look at their all-inclusive wedding packages.
