Guest Author - Karon Warren

Who doesn’t love getting away with the girls now and then? It’s a wonderful time to relax and recharge, and San Antonio offers a prime spot to do just that. Whether on the go or kicking back for a while, this South Texas provides exactly what you need.

You know when the girls get together the itinerary will include shopping. In San Antonio, you’ll find something to suit every style and budget. To find that perfect vacation souvenir, head downtown to Market Square (www.marketsquaresa.com), which includes 32 shops at El Mercado, the city’s authentic Mexican market, and 80 specialty shops in Farmers Market Plaza.

Wares range from the usual novelty knickknacks such as hand-painted picture frames to unique, handcrafted jewelry. Market Square also is a great place to sample traditional Mexican cuisine. In fact, don’t miss a visit to Mi Tierra Café & Bakery, where you can try traditional Mexican pastries.

For those who just can’t live without their traditional “mall” shopping, The Shops at La Cantera (www.theshopsatlacantera.com) offer a variety of upscale merchants artfully arranged in a relaxed outdoor setting located about 20 minutes from downtown. Anchored by Dillard’s, Macy’s, Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, other tenants include Apple, Brighton Collectibles, Gap, Lacoste, Pottery Barn, Sephora, and Tiffany & Co. The mall also boasts an eclectic food selection, such as Bravo Cucina Italiana, P.F. Chang’s China Bistro and Marble Slab Creamery.

Of course, no girls’ getaway is complete without a day at the spa, and the Castle Rock Health Club & Spa at The Westin La Cantera Resort is the perfect place to have it. Featuring a myriad of treatments such as massage therapy, facials, and manicures and pedicures, the spa is the perfect place to relax and catch up with close friends.

In fact, The Westin La Cantera Resort (www.westinlacantera.com) provides the perfect setting for a girls’ getaway. Located in close proximity to The Shops at La Cantera (a free shuttle runs between the hotel and the shopping center) and a short drive to downtown San Antonio, The Westin La Cantera Resort is the ideal spot to call “home base” during your visit.

However, with such great amenities, you may never want to leave the property. Featuring 508 guestrooms outfitted with the popular Heavenly Bed and Heavenly Bath, The Westin La Cantera Resort is the perfect place to relax with friends. Make sure you book some sun time at the Lost Quarry Pools water recreation area, which includes five outdoor pools, two hot tubs and a water slide.

When you’re ready to enjoy a glass of wine and a satisfying meal, head to Francesca’s at Sunset, the resort’s AAA Four Diamond Restaurant. Offering a menu created by world-renowned chef Mark Miller of Coyote Café, dishes range from steak to seafood with a decidedly Southwestern flavor. Be warned: Seating is limited, so reservations are highly recommended.

Yes, we all love a good rendezvous with the girls, and San Antonio provides a great locale for just such an occasion.