For the week of February 13 - 19, 2002

Have a Valentine’s day to swoon over

---

By DANA DUGAN
Express Staff Writer

Valentine’s Day is time for lovers, partners, friends, and extended families to all give in to that big group hug. At no time in the recent past has it seemed more like we need to collectively rid ourselves of cynicism, and be loving.

Here are some grand ideas for those with affection in their hearts.

Certified Massage Therapist Amber Simpson attends to a client in one of Solavie’s VIP rooms. Here in the Bamboo Room there is a soaking tub, a Jacuzzi and a sauna. Express photo by Willy Cook

Let’s get a few things straight first of all. Flowers wilt, Chocolate is passé, food is fattening, lingerie is always saved for a better time, aphrodisiacs don’t really work and possibly make our tummys ache, and the places we go to dance are smoky.

However, there’s nothing like a massage. (Of course, I am kidding about all the above.) But that massage thing is ideal, ask any woman or enlightened man.

In our valley we have a myriad of choices and some are especially geared for the day of love. Eden Massage and Spa Services in Ketchum is offering a Valentine’s Day Gift Package, "The Wisdom of the Rose," involving a rose petal body wrap, a full body massage, and rosewater facial. (720-7983)

At Solavie Spa Retreat in Ketchum, not only can you treat your mate to a massage, but you can have one simultaneously, then join each other for a sauna and relax in a private Jacuzzi surrounded by candles, flowers and a chilled bottle of champagne. Solavie has VIP rooms that are mini sanctuaries, where every whim and desire can be dealt with, said spa manager, Karyn Pitchley. "It’s really romantic. And we can make a man look like a king." All he has to do is call the spa and they will set up the scene just as ordered.

When the clients are sated they can then retire upstairs to the romantic Bali Suite, with a fire and view of the mountains. (726-7211). "It’s destination relaxation," Pitchley said.

Epicurean delights can be found at several locales, including a special Valentine’s Dinner at Galena Lodge, featuring rack of lamb, pan fried oysters, baby organic greens with a love vinaigrette, and lavender-garlic whipped potatoes.

Among the Ketchum restaurants, Place is offering a four-course tasting menu for Valentine’s Day with home-made ravioli, Niman Ranch filet mignon Wellington, and a desert sampler. Course-by-course wine paring enhances the shared experience for you and your loved one.

Aprés dining while away the ardor filled evening by cutting the Duchin Room’s rug to the tony tunes of Joe Fos, or take in the popular musical revue "Forever Plaid" in Sun Valley at The Boiler Room.

More music can be found in Ketchum when renowned local band the Bobo’s will be laying down danceable grooves at Whiskey’s, or head down valley to The Mint for Cupid’s Ball, with big band swing music.

So beware of Cupid, there’s romance in the air, and entertainment to be had.

Tutto che abbiate bisogno di è amore.

 

The Idaho Mountain Express is distributed free to residents and guests throughout the Sun Valley, Idaho resort area community. Subscribers to the Idaho Mountain Express will read these stories and others in this week's issue.