Since 1969, restaurant, hotel, travel & other witty reviews by a handpicked, worldwide team of discerning professionals—and your views, too.


Spa Products

Astara Blue Flame Purification Mask

Few home beauty treatments feel more spa-away-from-the-spa than a facial mask. Sure, you have to apply it yourself, but then you get to kick back on your sofa and relax with a fashion mag while it goes to work. We picked up Astara's Blue Flame Purification Mask at the Estancia La Jolla Spa, and we were as happy with the results as if we’d paid a small fortune for an hour with a good facialist. We assume the name was chosen because it describes both the product (it’s blue!) and the process (it tingles a bit when you first put it on). The best part is when it dries. There is an instant when you can suddenly feel your skin tightening. And when you wash it off, the lines—although not gone—are definitely smoother. Ingredients include an infusion of lemongrass, red clover, rosemary, comfrey and Echinacea, which gives the mask an invigorating scent. Use it on normal skin a couple times a week for cleansing and tightening. It’s also great for blemishes. Just dab a little on the offending spot before you go to sleep.

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(Updated: 07/15/08 HC)


EASTER BRUNCH RESTAURANTS

Gather your friends and family and celebrate Easter Sunday on April 4 with a special brunch at one of these top restaurants in your area.

ARTICHOKES

These spiky green vegetables contain high levels of nutrients that can improve digestion and boost the regeneration of liver cells.