Get in shape vacations

By Elissa Vallano

updated 7:16 p.m. ET Jan. 15, 2007

Whether you're gearing up for a winter cruise to the Caribbean or preparing for a summer on the beach, you'll want your body to be bathing-suit ready no matter what time of year it is. But what should you do if you're looking less than bootylicious? Combine your passion for travel with your quest for a healthier, fitter and more beautiful you! One of the hottest trends in travel is getting healthy while getting away, and, with that in mind, we've selected five programs that are guaranteed to help you do just that.

Bikini Boot Camp for the Mind, Body and Spirit, Amansala — Mexico
Created by two Manhattan-based women who realized that travel can be synonymous with a healthy lifestyle, Bikini Boot Camp for the Mind, Body and Spirit seeks to revitalize and rejuvenate the weary and overworked. The six-night program is limited to 25 men and women and is held at the eco-chic resort Amansala, located on the remote beach setting of Tulum, Mexico.

Days start with a beach or jungle power walk followed by a combination of body sculpting, power abdominal sessions or Pilates, and end with yoga and meditation. There are excursions to the nearby jungle for swimming and snorkeling, visits to Mayan ruins, and beachside massages.

Culinary creations for your low-fat diet consist of completely chemical-free local food. You'll dine on fresh caught grilled fish, mangos, jicima salads and other delectable low-calorie selections that will be a perfect complement to your new exercise regime.

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The six-night programs are held year round, and three- and four-night programs are available upon request. Prices for six nights are from $1,842 not including airfare.

The Hills Health Spa — British Columbia
The Hills Health Ranch is an ultimate destination spa vacation resort for people aiming for a complete body makeover. Specializing in weight loss, fitness, hiking and gourmet spa cuisine, this healthy hideaway is located in the middle of 20,000 acres of ranch lands in British Columbia.

The spa offers extensive daily fitness programs, such as yoga, Pilates, aerobics and aqua fit, and boasts 18 wellness, massage and spa treatment rooms, three spa lounges, two exclusive dining rooms, and a wealth of professional hiking, canoeing, biking services.

What sets the Hills Health Spa apart is the three uniquely tailored packages for you to choose from. Whether you love the outdoors or prefer the personal instruction of a class, there is a fitness program designed specifically to your tastes and abilities. The packages range from six to ten nights, as well as an optional 30-night stay, and include:

Fitness 'n' Spa: A combination of outdoor and indoor activities, the Fitness 'n' Spa package provides you with various fitness programs and opportunities to help you achieve your goals. Your choices for classes include yoga, Pilates, step aerobics, resist-a-ball, aqua fit weights, treadmills, steppers, recumbent or mountain bikes, walking, hiking, and canoeing -- all provided with the help from personal trainers, certified class instructors, kinesiologists, nutritionists and outdoor fitness coaches.

Hike 'n' Spa: Perfect for the outdoor enthusiast, the Hike 'n' Spa package utilizes the thousands of acres surrounding the resort so you can get fit while enjoying nature. You will have your choice of regular early morning guided walks, afternoon daily group hikes, private guided hikes personalized to your liking, mountain biking and canoeing.

Weight Loss: All about shedding the pounds, the Weight Loss package uses a wilderness setting to educate guests on an effective and healthy method of dealing with weight issues. You'll be given help with planning the right menu for your lifestyle and weight goals, as well as establishing the perfect fitness regime for your level. Private consultations and group workshops are also available, and a wellness director, nutritionists, kinesiologists, personal trainers, guides, class instructors, behavioral counselors, chefs and spa treatment therapists are there to provide maximum guidance and support.

Prices vary but start at $1,527 for six nights.

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