Best spa resorts named

Spa holidays are becoming increasingly popular among those seeking a relaxing, rejuvenating holiday experience.

This is reflected in the wide choice of resort and hotel spas, destination spas, and day spas available to today's spa traveller.

But for those seeking the ultimate spa experience, Spa Finder magazine has compiled a list of the world's best.

If your budget doesn't stretch beyond Europe then the Evian Royal Resort (formerly Royal Parc Evian), in France, is a safe bet after being voted the continent's best.

Further afield, Resident Tunis, Tunisia, was voted Africa's best in the readers' choice 'Crystal Awards', while Banyan Tree Phuket, Thailand, was top of the Asia category.

If you are seeking a spa resort in Australia, head to northern Queensland and the Daintree Eco Lodge set in Cape Tribulation, the only place in the world where rainforest meets reef.

Arizona's Canyon Ranch is North America's top spa, while Kurotel, Brazil is likewise for South America.

Spa Finder chairman Peter Ellis said: "The explosion in spa-going and spa innovation has become a truly global phenomenon, and Spa Finder's international readers represent some of the world's most sophisticated, adventurous spa travelers.

"To be selected as one of the world's best spas by these discerning spa-goers is an objective validation of a truly world-class spa experience. Congratulations to all of our 2005 readers' choice award winners; you are creme de la creme of the spa world."

Meanwhile, if you are looking for something altogether closer to home, Britain's top two spas - Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park, London and The Spa at Chewton Glen, Hampshire, were tied in first place in the readers' vote.

For more information on the best spa's worldwide see www.spafinder.com