Road trip yields spa delights...

The happy task I set for myself was to choose from this luxurious spa buffet "the best of the best" in accommodation, design, food and services. Secondly, I wanted to inspire other women to go spa and resort hopping in and around this healing corner of the world. Moms and daughters, sisters or best pals, will love exploring this Sonoran Desert area by car. There's no need to spend one full week at any single stop. With wheels it's easy to enjoy "the best of the best" as you move from one wonderful resort complex to the next.

Here is Journeyman's list of prize-winning suggestions...

Outstanding Spa Accommodation...
Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain

Journeywoman's choice for "Outstanding Spa Accommodation" is the Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain (located on the north slope of the mountain high above Paradise Valley).

At this secluded Shangri-La, pleasure seekers can enjoy Asian-inspired casitas with decor guaranteed to satisfy the whims of the most demanding guests. Included in the dual-level unit is a modern sitting room appointed with sleek furniture, gas fireplace, a most superior sound system and a glorious view. This space becomes the ideal spot to relax -- especially after one of the spa's superior treatments.

Hurrah for the wonderfully roomy bathroom -- in fact, it was big enough to accommodate the ironing board that Journeywoman conveniently left standing all the time she was there. A well-lit, magnifying make-up mirror earned extra "women-friendly" points as did the elegant Frette bathrobe that wraps the wearer in absolute luxury. Journeywoman was most impressed with The Sanctuary's in-room amenities including Erno Lazlo skincare products that enjoy an excellent reputation around the world.

The bedroom's stylish leather headboard, sun-resistant drapes, 300-threadcount sheets and an heavenly mattress allow a travelling woman to sleep like a pampered princess.

But, that's not all. What clinched the "Outstanding Accommodation" award for The Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain is the suite's private outdoor steeping tub. Picture a balmy desert moonlit night -- bathsalts are added, tea candles are lit. You strip down to skin, step into the warm water and enjoy a slow soak as you contemplate the stars in the vast Milky Way.