The Great Escape: Palm Trees and Whirlpools

Take a moment and think about the word “deluge.” It means something that overwhelms like a great flood. What does that describe in your life? Unfortunately for me, presently, it describes the deluge of toys in my living room: two plastic rattles sit next to an upside-down xylophone, which is resting on a naked, twisted Barbie.

Now imagine the word deluge being used to describe a shower. Doesn’t it feel great already?

It has been more than 10 years since I experienced the "deluge" showers at Claremont Resort and Spa in Berkeley, but I would bet everything I own that they are still fantastic.

Now mommies, before you roll your eyes and think how impossible it would be to get over to the Claremont for some seriously chi chi relaxation... listen to this: They have weekday specials! Straight up!

Book any treatment of $125 or more and that entitles you to two, yes TWO glorious, uninterrupted hours in the Claremont’s heavenly pre-spa area. You get to work your way around the sauna, steam, whirlpool, deluge and multihead showers. Alternatively, book 90 minutes of the pure pre-spa "hydrotherapy ritual" for $45.

That's not too crazy a price for a place voted the top U.S. urban spa by Vogue magazine.

Also, when you book any treatment Monday through Thursday, it comes with three hours of child care at the Kids’ Club.

With that last sentence, I believe my work here is done.

Have a “great escape” secret you’re willing to share? Tell us about it by emailing the author above, or putting it in the comments at the end of this article. If we feature your idea, we’ll give you a shout-out in the next “Great Escape.”