I had never been to a spa resort, but my wife thought I'd like a visit as the beginning to my birthday weekend in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

At first, the facility seems disconcertingly drab and institutional. Concrete walls with metal insets did not engender confidence. However, after driving up to the main entrance, having a valet park the car and entering, initial concerns are dispelled. Four female statues in a row surrounded by a hazy fog greet you, and upon telling the concierge that you are there for a spa treatment, you are escorted downstairs.

After being checked in at a desk next to a wall of "products," you are taken down a dimly lit hallway with rooms off either side, a designated "quiet zone." From there you go to a common waiting room until the masseur (or manicurist, etc.) comes for you.

For a male treatment, my wife purchased a full-body stress-relieving massage and the "gentlemen's facial," while she got a facial and pedicure.

Men who think this is isn't for them have never experienced it. For the massage, I was taken to a private room, and the masseur informed me that I could disrobe and stay in whatever state of dress/undress that was most comfortable for me, as sheets cover whatever body parts are not being massaged.

Once on the table, the hour went quickly, with the masseur targeting those areas where I felt I needed tension relief, and where she could feel knots. Soft music and candles set the stage, and the various oils provided a skin emollient and pleasing, all-pervasive scent.

Once the massage was through, I had the facial. Starting with an examination of my skin, the technician went through a series of sloughers, conditioners and pore openers. That was followed by some face, scalp and shoulder massages and a straight-razor shave.

The final effects were amazing - I was loose, calm, skin aglow, and ready for the rest of the weekend. I must say that I was out of it from the massage for the next 12 hours, and the effects lasted for at least a week. They design a specialized regimen for each guest which can be purchsed when you leave. They tend to be quite pricey, but even if you choose not to purchase the products, it gives a good idea of what you can and should be doing for your skin.

Guys, if you haven't done this, you don't know what you are missing!

The Spa at White Oaks Resorts offers these services a la carte, as parts of day packages, or in concert with overnight stays at the resort. They run from the manicures, to massages, to hot-rock therapy and meditation. Something for everyone for that much-needed dose of relaxation. I'm a believer, and I can't wait for a trip back!