One-day spas Hot Stuff
By Lesley Alderman

(MONEY Magazine) – 60-MINUTE SPA Used to be you had to spend megabucks at remote resorts for a one-spot revitalizing week of massage, body treatments and workouts. Not anymore. New urban "day spas'' cater to today's frugal, stressed-out customers. In 1991, there were only one or two in each town. Now there are 10 to 12 such retreats in most major cities, estimates Frank van Putten at Spa-Finders, a travel agency specializing in spa getaways (800-255-7727). Many day spas are located in luxe hotels, such as Oakland's Claremont. And men are showing up for treatments once considered "women only.'' At the Dorit Baxter Day Spa in New York City, reports owner Baxter, men accounted for 35% of last year's clients, up from 20% in '92. Typically, day spas offer options from one-hour $65 massages to $250 full-day packages that include the basics plus aromatherapy massages, mud baths or salt scrubs. Most places also provide low-cal spa- cuisine meals. Before you book, ask about the facilities. Better spas have saunas, steam rooms and hot tubs at no extra charge.