For most women, a trip to a spa is an oasis of relaxation. Massages. Manicures, pedicures. Facials. Hours in the steam room. Maybe a seaweed wrap…

But many health and beauty resorts are going beyond basic pampering packages and offering optimum weight loss treatments, hyper-anti-aging techniques and lessons in bioenergetic psychology.

The hottest detox destination du jour? The Palace Hotel, nestled in the foothills of the Italian Dolomites.

Voted the most life-changing spa in the world by Tatler magazine, the world’s wealthiest and most glamorous women (Monaco’s Princess Caroline, Elle Macpherson, Uma Thurman) are lining up for the hotel’s intense “wellness” regiment.

Sample day? Apple puree for breakfast, electric shock therapy at lunch and laxatives for dinner. Read More »